IBA High-Frequency Word List #22 (751-780)

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#751 | MESH 🕸️
[DU, IBA ’16 July]
(Verb) – To fit or work well together, often referring to compatibility or integration.
(Noun) – A network of interwoven elements, such as fabric, wire, or abstract connections.
Connotation:
🔹 Positive to Neutral – Suggests harmony, integration, or interconnection, but can also imply entanglement in certain contexts.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Teamwork – Successful teams mesh well when individuals collaborate effectively, leveraging each other’s strengths for productivity.
✅ In Technology & Engineering – Systems or components must mesh seamlessly for smooth operation, such as in software integration or mechanical design.
✅ In Social & Interpersonal Relationships – People with similar values and communication styles tend to mesh well, fostering stronger connections.
Example Sentences:
✅ The new hires quickly meshed with the existing team, creating a more dynamic and efficient workflow.
✅ The gears must mesh perfectly for the machine to function without friction or breakdowns.
✅ Despite their different backgrounds, their personalities meshed surprisingly well, leading to a strong friendship.
MESHED ⚙️
(Adjective) – Fitted or blended together smoothly; interwoven or interconnected in a way that functions effectively.
Connotation:
🔹 Positive to Neutral – Implies successful integration or alignment, though in some cases, it can indicate entanglement or complexity.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Collaboration – A well-meshed team operates efficiently, with members complementing each other’s skills and strengths.
✅ In Technology & Mechanics – Meshed gears or systems ensure smooth operation, preventing friction or malfunction.
✅ In Social & Personal Contexts – Well-meshed relationships or groups indicate harmony and shared understanding, making interactions more seamless.
Example Sentences:
✅ The two departments meshed well after the merger, leading to improved productivity and cooperation.
✅ The software update ensured that all components were properly meshed, reducing compatibility issues.
✅ Their personalities meshed effortlessly, making them ideal business partners.
#752 | WEAVE 🧶
[DU, IBA ’16 July]
(Verb) – To intertwine or blend elements together to create something structured or cohesive; can also mean to move in and out of obstacles gracefully.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral to Positive – Suggests skillful integration, creativity, or dexterity, but can imply complexity or manipulation in certain contexts.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Storytelling – A compelling speaker weaves facts and emotions into a persuasive argument, making ideas more engaging and impactful.
✅ In Strategy & Decision-Making – Effective leaders weave different perspectives into cohesive strategies, ensuring all stakeholders feel represented.
✅ In Movement & Navigation – Athletes or drivers skillfully weave through obstacles, demonstrating agility and precision.
Example Sentences:
✅ The marketing team expertly wove the brand’s history into its latest campaign, creating a compelling narrative.
✅ She had to weave through a complex network of regulations to secure approval for the project.
✅ The journalist wove multiple sources together to craft a well-researched and balanced report.
#753 | INUNDATE 🌊
[DU, IBA ’16 July]
(Verb) – To overwhelm or flood with an excessive amount of something, whether physically (as with water) or metaphorically (as with tasks, information, or demands).
Connotation:
🔹 Negative – Implies an excessive or uncontrollable influx, often leading to stress, overload, or difficulty in managing the situation.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Workload Management – Employees can be inundated with tasks, emails, or deadlines, leading to burnout and inefficiency.
✅ In Media & Information Flow – The public is often inundated with conflicting news, making it difficult to discern facts from misinformation.
✅ In Natural Disasters & Crisis Situations – Heavy rains can inundate cities, causing floods and disruptions to daily life.
Example Sentences:
✅ After the product launch, the customer support team was inundated with inquiries and complaints.
✅ Social media inundates users with advertisements, making it harder to focus on meaningful content.
✅ The coastal town was inundated by rising floodwaters, forcing residents to evacuate.
#754 | PERTURB 🌪️
[EMBA DU Nov ’13; DU, IBA ’16 July]
(Verb) – To disturb, unsettle, or make someone anxious or worried.
Connotation:
🔹 Negative – Suggests agitation, unease, or mental distress caused by uncertainty, disruption, or troubling events.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Finance – Market instability perturbs investors, leading to cautious decision-making and risk aversion.
✅ In Psychology & Emotions – Unexpected criticism or bad news can perturb an individual, affecting their confidence or emotional state.
✅ In Science & Physics – External forces perturb a system, altering its natural state or equilibrium, often requiring adjustments.
Example Sentences:
✅ The sudden drop in stock prices perturbed shareholders, prompting urgent strategy meetings.
✅ His dismissive attitude perturbed his colleagues, who expected a more serious response to the issue.
✅ The gravitational pull of a nearby planet perturbed the satellite’s orbit, requiring recalibration.
#755 | DILAPIDATED 🏚️
[DU, IBA ’04-05; DU, IBA ’16 July]
(Adjective) – In a state of severe disrepair due to neglect, age, or deterioration.
Connotation:
🔹 Negative – Implies decay, neglect, or ruin, often evoking a sense of abandonment or decline.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Real Estate & Infrastructure – Dilapidated buildings decrease property values and may pose safety hazards, requiring renovation or demolition.
✅ In Business & Organizations – A dilapidated company structure—whether in terms of management, technology, or facilities—can hinder growth and efficiency.
✅ In Metaphorical & Abstract Use – A dilapidated system (e.g., outdated laws, inefficient bureaucracies) fails to meet modern needs, demanding reform.
Example Sentences:
✅ The company relocated its headquarters, leaving behind a dilapidated office building that was eventually demolished.
✅ The city government launched a restoration project to save historic but dilapidated landmarks.
✅ His dilapidated business model, relying on outdated strategies, failed to compete in the modern digital market.
#756 | BLASPHEMY ⚡
[DU, IBA ’16 July]
(Noun) – Speech or actions that show disrespect or irreverence toward religious beliefs, sacred principles, or deeply held values.
Connotation:
🔹 Negative – Often viewed as offensive, controversial, or sacrilegious, particularly in religious or culturally sensitive contexts.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Religion & Ethics – Blasphemy laws exist in some countries to protect religious sentiments, but they can also spark debates on freedom of speech.
✅ In Politics & Public Discourse – Certain statements or actions perceived as blasphemous can lead to public outrage, protests, or legal consequences.
✅ In Art & Literature – Artists and writers sometimes use blasphemous themes to challenge norms, provoke thought, or critique societal beliefs.
Example Sentences:
✅ The author’s novel was banned in several countries due to accusations of blasphemy against religious figures.
✅ His satirical remarks about the monarchy were considered political blasphemy by traditionalists.
✅ The controversial painting was seen as blasphemy by some, while others defended it as artistic expression.
#757 | BOISTEROUS 📢
[DU, IBA ’16 July]
(Adjective) – Noisy, energetic, and often rowdy or disruptive.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral to Negative – Can suggest lively enthusiasm in a positive way but may also imply unruliness or excessive loudness.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Social & Public Settings – A boisterous crowd at a celebration adds excitement, but in formal settings, it may be seen as disruptive.
✅ In Business & Work Environments – Boisterous office discussions can foster creativity but might distract from focused work.
✅ In Education & Discipline – Teachers often struggle to maintain control over boisterous classrooms, balancing engagement with discipline.
Example Sentences:
✅ The boisterous cheers of the fans echoed throughout the stadium after the team’s victory.
✅ His boisterous storytelling style made him the center of attention at every gathering.
✅ The restaurant's atmosphere was too boisterous for a serious business meeting.
#758 | BERTH ⚓
[DU, IBA ’16 July]
(Noun) – A designated place for a ship to dock or a sleeping space on a train or ship.
(Verb) – To dock a ship in a designated space.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral – Refers to positioning or placement, whether for ships, transportation, or figurative usage.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Maritime & Transportation – Ships require a proper berth at ports for safe docking and unloading of cargo.
✅ In Travel & Accommodations – Overnight trains and ships offer sleeping berths for passenger comfort.
✅ In Career & Opportunities (Figurative Use) – Securing a prestigious berth in a company or industry implies an earned position.
Example Sentences:
✅ The cruise ship found its berth at the harbor, allowing passengers to disembark.
✅ He reserved an upper berth for his overnight train journey.
✅ After years of hard work, she secured a berth at a top investment firm.
#759 | GLEAN 🌾
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec, ’18 May]
(Verb) – To collect information or material bit by bit, often by searching through or carefully extracting details.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral to Positive – Often suggests thoroughness and careful analysis, but can also imply effortful or painstaking work.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Research & Academia – Researchers glean data from various sources, piecing together findings to form a coherent conclusion.
✅ In Business & Strategy – Managers glean insights from customer feedback and market trends to inform decision-making and drive growth.
✅ In Literature & Analysis – Writers and analysts glean ideas from historical events, literature, or case studies to inform their work.
Example Sentences:
✅ The journalist gleaned important facts from multiple sources to write a well-rounded article.
✅ After conducting several interviews, she was able to glean key insights about consumer preferences.
✅ The student gleaned a deeper understanding of the subject after reviewing various research papers and articles.
#760 | ALACRITY ⚡
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Noun) – Cheerful willingness, eagerness, or promptness in doing something.
Connotation:
🔹 Positive – Suggests enthusiasm, readiness, and a proactive attitude toward tasks or challenges.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Leadership – Leaders value alacrity in their teams, as it reflects motivation and a strong work ethic.
✅ In Customer Service & Sales – A customer service representative’s alacrity in responding to inquiries enhances the overall experience and satisfaction.
✅ In Personal & Social Contexts – Alacrity in helping others or volunteering can lead to positive personal relationships and community engagement.
Example Sentences:
✅ The team tackled the project with alacrity, completing tasks ahead of schedule.
✅ His alacrity in offering assistance to his colleagues made him a highly valued team member.
✅ The customer service representative responded with alacrity, resolving the issue quickly and effectively.
#761 | ABSOLUTE ⚖️
[DU, IBA ’16-17]
(Adjective) – Complete and total, without any restriction or limitation; unqualified or unconditional.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral to Positive – Implies totality, certainty, or perfection, often used to emphasize the strength or clarity of a concept.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Leadership – Leaders may use absolute terms to make clear, definitive decisions or assert authority.
✅ In Law & Governance – Absolute laws or rules are unequivocal and not subject to interpretation or compromise.
✅ In Personal & Philosophical Contexts – An individual might strive for absolute truth, certainty, or freedom, though such ideals can be difficult to attain.
Example Sentences:
✅ The CEO made an absolute decision to expand internationally, leaving no room for debate.
✅ The contract offered absolute terms, with no flexibility for renegotiation.
✅ His absolute commitment to the cause inspired others to follow his lead with equal passion.
#762 | PHILANTHROPY 🤝
[IBA JU ’19-20]
(Noun) – The desire to promote the welfare of others, typically through the donation of money, resources, or time to charitable causes.
Connotation:
🔹 Positive – Often associated with generosity, selflessness, and social responsibility, highlighting a concern for the common good.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Corporate Social Responsibility – Companies engage in philanthropy to support communities, improve their brand image, and meet ethical standards.
✅ In Nonprofits & Community Development – Philanthropy is crucial for funding causes like education, healthcare, and environmental protection, providing necessary resources to make an impact.
✅ In Personal & Social Contexts – Individuals who practice philanthropy are seen as socially responsible, fostering goodwill and community support.
Example Sentences:
✅ The tech giant’s philanthropic efforts included large donations to support educational initiatives in underserved communities.
✅ Her philanthropy not only helped build schools but also provided scholarships to students in need.
✅ The foundation’s philanthropy focused on improving healthcare access in rural areas.
#763 | IMPLAUSIBLE ❌
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Adjective) – Not seeming reasonable or probable; unlikely to be true or to happen.
Connotation:
🔹 Negative – Suggests skepticism or disbelief, often implying that something is far-fetched or hard to accept as realistic.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Strategy – An implausible business proposal or plan may raise concerns about its feasibility or practicality.
✅ In Legal & Political Discourse – In a legal case, implausible arguments can lead to a lack of credibility or cause the case to be dismissed.
✅ In Personal & Social Contexts – People may dismiss an implausible excuse or story as a fabrication or exaggeration.
Example Sentences:
✅ The startup’s financial projections seemed implausible, given the current market conditions.
✅ The lawyer quickly dismissed the defendant’s implausible alibi, citing a lack of evidence.
✅ His implausible explanation for being late raised doubts among his colleagues, who knew he was often tardy.
#764 | GAUGE 📏
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Verb) – To measure, assess, or estimate the size, amount, or extent of something; to evaluate or judge a situation.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral – Suggests precision and assessment, often used in contexts requiring careful evaluation or measurement.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Market Analysis – Companies use market research to gauge customer preferences and adapt their strategies accordingly.
✅ In Leadership & Management – Leaders gauge the mood or productivity of their teams to make informed decisions and foster a positive work environment.
✅ In Personal & Social Interactions – People gauge the reactions of others to adjust their behavior or communication style for better rapport.
Example Sentences:
✅ The CEO used customer surveys to gauge satisfaction with the new product line.
✅ The project manager gauged the team’s readiness before setting ambitious deadlines.
✅ He tried to gauge her interest in the proposal, but her expression was hard to read.
#765 | FEUDAL ⚔️
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Adjective) – Relating to or characteristic of the social, political, and economic system of feudalism, typically involving a hierarchy of lords and vassals bound by land and loyalty.
Connotation:
🔹 Negative – Often implies outdated or hierarchical structures that can be restrictive and inequitable, suggesting a lack of mobility or fairness.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Historical & Political Analysis – Feudal systems are typically criticized for reinforcing social inequality and lack of individual rights.
✅ In Business & Organizational Structures – A feudal approach in modern companies could suggest overly rigid hierarchies, where power and decision-making are concentrated at the top.
✅ In Social & Economic Contexts – Feudal-like systems in society might imply limited social mobility and deep disparities between different classes or groups.
Example Sentences:
✅ The feudal nature of the kingdom’s rule left peasants with few rights and no path to upward mobility.
✅ The company’s feudal management structure resulted in slow decision-making and poor communication between departments.
✅ In some cultures, feudal relationships still influence the way wealth and power are distributed.
FEUDALISM 🏰
(Noun) – A medieval system where lords granted land to vassals in exchange for service, marked by rigid hierarchies and land-based power.
Connotation:
🔹 Negative – Linked to inequality, exploitation, and restricted mobility.
Implications in Context:
✅ Historical & Political – Symbolized entrenched class divisions and limited upward movement.
✅ Business & Organizational – Rigid structures today may echo feudal inefficiencies and disempowerment.
✅ Social & Economic – Highlights longstanding patterns of land-based inequality.
Example Sentences:
✅ Feudalism shaped medieval Europe, binding peasants to land under lordly control.
✅ Some nations still reflect feudal-era wealth gaps and elite dominance.
✅ Analysts liken feudalism to modern oligarchies concentrating power.
#766 | COMICAL 🤡
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Adjective) – Relating to or resembling comedy; amusing or laugh-inducing, often in a lighthearted or absurd way.
Connotation:
🔹 Positive to Neutral – Generally evokes humor or amusement, though it can sometimes be used to describe situations that are overly exaggerated or trivial.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Marketing – Comical advertisements or campaigns can capture attention and generate positive engagement, but they must align with the brand's image and values.
✅ In Social Interactions – Using comical remarks can ease tension in a conversation, but there is a risk of seeming unprofessional if not used appropriately.
✅ In Media & Entertainment – Comical content often appeals to a wide audience by offering light relief and entertainment, making it popular in movies, shows, and social media.
Example Sentences:
✅ The marketing team used a comical video to promote the product, which led to a surge in social media engagement.
✅ His comical approach to leadership made him well-liked by his team, though some questioned his seriousness in high-stakes situations.
✅ The comedian's performance was comical and had the audience laughing throughout the entire show.
#767 | EVANGELICAL ✝️
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Adjective) – Relating to the Christian gospel or its teachings; characterized by zeal in spreading religious beliefs or advocating for a particular cause or idea.
Connotation:
🔹 Positive to Neutral – In a religious context, it suggests passionate dedication, but in other contexts, it can imply an intense, often unyielding, advocacy for a cause.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Religion & Faith – Evangelical movements often emphasize personal faith, conversion, and outreach, shaping religious communities and practices.
✅ In Politics & Social Movements – The term can also be used to describe individuals or groups with fervent advocacy for a political or social cause, sometimes perceived as overly zealous or persuasive.
✅ In Leadership & Public Speaking – Evangelical leaders often possess strong communication skills, using passion and conviction to rally support and inspire action.
Example Sentences:
✅ The evangelical preacher’s message resonated deeply with the congregation, sparking a wave of conversions.
✅ His evangelical approach to environmentalism led him to campaign relentlessly for climate action, even when others were skeptical.
✅ The candidate’s evangelical supporters rallied behind him, motivated by his fervent stance on healthcare reform.
#768 | MERIDIAN 🌍
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Noun) – A great circle of the earth that passes through the North and South poles; a line of longitude; or, a point of highest development or achievement.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral to Positive – Often associated with geographical or scientific accuracy, and in certain contexts, it implies a peak or turning point.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Geography & Navigation – Meridians are crucial in determining locations and time zones, particularly in global navigation and mapmaking.
✅ In Business & Strategy – A company might reach its "meridian" when it achieves its greatest level of success or influence in a market.
✅ In Cultural & Social Contexts – The term can be used metaphorically to indicate a significant or pivotal moment in history or development.
Example Sentences:
✅ The prime meridian is essential in establishing time zones and coordinating global navigation.
✅ The company reached its meridian when it expanded into international markets, becoming a global leader in its field.
✅ The artist's career reached its meridian with the release of a groundbreaking exhibition that redefined modern art.
#769 | RETAKE 🔄
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Verb) – To take something again, such as an exam, photograph, or test; to repeat an action or process to improve results or capture a different perspective.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral – Suggests a second attempt or revision, often implying the first try was insufficient or incomplete.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Education & Exams – Retaking an exam or test is common when students do not meet the required standards, offering an opportunity to improve performance.
✅ In Business & Projects – Retaking a business initiative or strategy can imply re-evaluating and adjusting methods to achieve better results.
✅ In Media & Photography – A retake in photography or film often reflects the desire to capture a more refined or ideal version of an image.
Example Sentences:
✅ After failing the exam, he decided to retake it with additional preparation to improve his score.
✅ The marketing team decided to retake the ad campaign after receiving feedback indicating it didn’t resonate with their target audience.
✅ The photographer asked for a retake of the photo, believing the lighting could be improved for a better composition.
#770 | UNDERTAKE 📝
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Verb) – To begin or commit to a task, project, or responsibility; to assume or take on a duty or obligation.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral to Positive – Implies responsibility and commitment, but can sometimes carry the weight of a challenging or difficult task.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Leadership – Undertaking a new project or initiative requires careful planning and resources, and often reflects leadership and strategic direction.
✅ In Legal & Ethical Contexts – Undertaking certain actions or responsibilities may involve legal obligations, such as contracts, which can be binding and carry significant consequences.
✅ In Personal & Social Settings – When someone undertakes a personal responsibility, like caring for a loved one, it reflects dedication and a sense of duty.
Example Sentences:
✅ The company decided to undertake a large-scale digital transformation to stay competitive in the market.
✅ She undertook the responsibility of managing the team’s budget, ensuring all expenses were accounted for.
✅ The university undertook a comprehensive review of its policies to improve student satisfaction.
#771 | INTAKE 🍽️
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Noun) – The amount of something, especially food, taken in; the process of receiving or accepting new things or people, such as information, applicants, or resources.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral – Refers to the act of consuming or accepting something, with no inherent positive or negative judgment, depending on the context.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Health & Nutrition – Monitoring daily intake of nutrients or calories is crucial for maintaining health and wellness.
✅ In Business & Recruitment – The intake process refers to receiving and reviewing new applications, clients, or projects, critical for maintaining a steady flow of business.
✅ In Education & Training – The intake of new students or trainees often involves evaluating qualifications and preparing them for the upcoming program or course.
Example Sentences:
✅ The nutritionist advised him to reduce his daily intake of sugar to improve his overall health.
✅ The company’s intake process for new clients includes a thorough consultation to understand their needs and expectations.
✅ The school is currently reviewing the intake of new students for the upcoming academic year.
#772 | AMBIDEXTROUS 🤹
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Adjective) – Able to use both hands equally well; exhibiting versatility or adaptability in different tasks or situations.
Connotation:
🔹 Positive – Suggests skill, adaptability, and balance, often viewed as a desirable trait in personal and professional contexts.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Leadership – An ambidextrous leader can handle multiple tasks effectively, balancing various responsibilities with ease, making them more versatile in managing teams.
✅ In Personal Development – Being ambidextrous can be a metaphor for being adaptable and flexible, capable of excelling in different situations and handling challenges from different perspectives.
✅ In Technology & Innovation – Ambidextrous organizations are those capable of both exploiting existing capabilities and exploring new opportunities, ensuring sustained growth and innovation.
Example Sentences:
✅ The ambidextrous manager easily handled both strategic planning and day-to-day operations, showcasing her versatility.
✅ His ambidextrous abilities allowed him to play both guitar and drums with equal skill, making him a valuable member of the band.
✅ The company prides itself on being ambidextrous in its approach, balancing short-term goals with long-term innovation.
AMBI 🌀
(Prefix) – A Latin-derived prefix meaning "both" or "on both sides," often indicating duality or the ability to engage in two opposing activities or traits.
#773 | ABUNDANCE 🌾
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec; BCS 39th, 40th]
(Noun) – A very large quantity of something; plentifulness or overflow of resources, goods, or opportunities.
Connotation:
🔹 Positive – Often associated with prosperity, wealth, and plenty, suggesting a favorable condition of having more than enough.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Economics – Abundance can refer to surplus resources, products, or market opportunities, which can be leveraged for growth and expansion.
✅ In Personal Development & Well-being – The concept of abundance often highlights the idea of having a wealth of opportunities, knowledge, or health, supporting a mindset of growth and possibility.
✅ In Environmental & Resource Management – Abundance can describe the availability of natural resources or the challenge of managing them sustainably for long-term benefit.
Example Sentences:
✅ The company was able to capitalize on the abundance of raw materials, leading to lower production costs and higher profits.
✅ She embraced an abundance mindset, believing that with hard work, success and opportunities would continuously flow.
✅ The project aimed to ensure that the abundance of freshwater resources would be preserved for future generations.
#774 | CLUNKY ⚙️
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Adjective) – Something that is awkward, heavy, or inefficient in movement or design, often clumsy or difficult to use.
Connotation:
🔹 Negative – Implies a lack of smoothness, elegance, or functionality, suggesting a need for improvement or refinement.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Product Design – A clunky product or service may indicate that it is difficult for customers to use, potentially leading to dissatisfaction or decreased sales.
✅ In Technology & Innovation – Clunky software or hardware may hinder productivity or frustrate users, highlighting the importance of user-friendly design and continuous improvement.
✅ In Personal Development & Communication – A clunky presentation or idea may be disorganized or unclear, requiring refinement to better engage or persuade the audience.
Example Sentences:
✅ The new software update was clunky, with several bugs that slowed down productivity and frustrated the team.
✅ His explanation was a bit clunky, as he struggled to organize his thoughts in a way that was clear to the audience.
✅ The company’s website had a clunky interface, making it hard for customers to navigate and complete their purchases efficiently.
#775 | UNWIELDY 🏋️♂️
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Adjective) – Difficult to handle, manage, or move due to size, shape, or complexity.
Connotation:
🔹 Negative – Implies inefficiency or awkwardness, often suggesting a need for simplification or adjustment.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Operations – An unwieldy process or system may slow down productivity or create unnecessary complexity.
✅ In Technology – Unwieldy software or hardware can lead to frustration and inefficiency for users.
✅ In Personal & Social Contexts – An unwieldy conversation or relationship might be difficult to navigate or maintain smoothly.
Example Sentences:
✅ The new organizational structure felt unwieldy, with too many layers of approval slowing decision-making.
✅ The project was delayed because the team struggled to manage the unwieldy amount of data.
✅ The manager found the unwieldy report hard to present in a concise, clear manner to the board.
#776 | DEPENDENT 🔗
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec]
(Adjective) – Relying on someone or something for support, sustenance, or success.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral to Negative – Suggests reliance on external factors or individuals, which can be seen as either a necessity or a limitation depending on the context.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Finance – A company dependent on a single supplier or client risks vulnerability to external changes or disruptions.
✅ In Economics & Policy – A dependent economy may struggle during economic downturns if it relies too heavily on a few sectors or markets.
✅ In Personal Development – Being overly dependent on others can hinder growth and independence, but some level of support can be essential for success.
Example Sentences:
✅ The startup was too dependent on one major investor, which posed a risk if the funding was pulled.
✅ The nation’s economy remains dependent on oil exports, leaving it vulnerable to fluctuating global prices.
✅ She recognized her dependent habits and worked on building more self-sufficiency in her personal and professional life.
#777 | CEASE ⏸️
[DU, IBA ’16 Dec; IBA JU ’18-19]
(Verb) – To bring or come to an end; to stop doing something.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral to Slightly Negative – Implies a termination of action, which can be either voluntary or forced, depending on the situation.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Operations – Ceasing a project or initiative may be necessary for resource reallocation or strategy change but could signal failure or loss.
✅ In Legal & Political Contexts – Legal actions or policies often require one party to cease certain activities, such as harmful business practices or actions violating laws.
✅ In Personal & Social Contexts – Ceasing a particular behavior or habit might be a sign of personal growth, but it could also indicate giving up or quitting.
Example Sentences:
✅ The company decided to cease operations in the underperforming market to focus on more profitable regions.
✅ The court ordered the defendant to cease all illegal activities immediately.
✅ After years of overworking, she decided to cease her unhealthy work habits and focus on self-care.
WITHOUT CEASE ⏳
Phrase: Without stopping; continuously.
Connotation: Persistent, relentless, or tireless.
Implications:
Business: Ongoing efforts without interruption.
Academics: Uninterrupted study or work.
Politics: Constant campaigning or advocacy.
Example: They worked without cease to meet the tight deadline.
NEVER CEASE TO 🚫⏳
Phrase: To continue doing something without stopping.
Connotation: Strong determination or persistence.
Implications:
Business: Ongoing effort or dedication.
Academics: Unwavering commitment to learning or improvement.
Politics: Relentless campaigning or advocacy.
Example: She will never cease to advocate for better education policies.
#778 | WANE 🌑
[DU, IBA ’17 June]
(Verb) – To decrease or diminish in size, strength, or intensity over time.
Connotation:
🔹 Negative – Implies a gradual decline or fading away, often indicating a reduction in value or influence.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Market Trends – A brand’s influence may wane over time if it fails to adapt to changing consumer preferences or market conditions.
✅ In Personal Development – One's motivation or confidence might wane if they encounter persistent setbacks without proper support or strategies.
✅ In Politics & Social Movements – The power or support for a political figure or movement can wane as public interest or societal focus shifts.
Example Sentences:
✅ After dominating the market for years, the company’s influence began to wane due to a lack of innovation.
✅ His enthusiasm for the project waned as he faced increasing challenges and resistance.
✅ Public interest in the political party waned after a series of controversial decisions.
#779 | FEIGN 🎭
[DU, IBA ’17 June]
(Verb) – To pretend to be affected by something, especially emotions, or to simulate a false appearance.
Connotation:
🔹 Negative – Suggests deception or dishonesty, often implying an effort to mislead or fake a situation.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Negotiations – Feigning interest or concern can harm relationships and undermine trust if discovered during negotiations or partnerships.
✅ In Personal & Social Contexts – Feigning emotions, like feigning happiness or sympathy, can lead to misunderstandings and damage personal connections.
✅ In Marketing & Branding – Brands that feign authenticity may face backlash if their true intentions are exposed, harming their reputation.
Example Sentences:
✅ She feigned surprise when the announcement was made, though she had already known about the decision.
✅ During the negotiations, he feigned agreement to buy more time, but his true intentions were unclear.
✅ The politician was accused of feigning concern for the community to gain votes without intending to follow through on promises.
#780 | FOREGOING ⬆️
[DU, IBA ’17 June]
(Adjective) – Describing something that has been previously mentioned, decided, or given up.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral to Slightly Positive – Implies a prior decision or action, often with a sense of intentional sacrifice or choice.
Implications in Context:
✅ In Business & Contracts – Foregoing certain terms or conditions in an agreement can be a strategic decision to facilitate smoother negotiations or partnerships.
✅ In Legal & Ethical Contexts – Foregoing certain rights or claims may be part of a legal settlement or an ethical compromise.
✅ In Personal Development – The foregoing of immediate desires for personal growth can reflect a long-term perspective or discipline.
Example Sentences:
✅ The foregoing decision to delay the product launch allowed the team to address quality concerns before release.
✅ In the foregoing months, the company focused on building stronger client relationships rather than pursuing new markets.
✅ After the foregoing of personal luxuries, he was able to save enough for his career development courses.
FOREGO / FORGO ❌
(Verb) – To voluntarily give up or refrain from doing or having something.
Connotation:
🔹 Neutral to Slightly Negative – Implies a conscious sacrifice or compromise.
Implications in Context:
✅ Business & Decision-Making – Strategic choices may involve foregoing lesser gains for long-term value.
✅ Personal Development – Resisting short-term rewards can show discipline but may feel limiting.
✅ Legal & Ethical – Rights or claims might be foregone to ensure compliance or secure broader benefits.
Example Sentences:
✅ The company chose to forego immediate profits to support sustainable growth.
✅ He decided to forgo his vacation to prioritize a major deadline.
✅ The legal team opted to forego the lawsuit in favor of a better settlement.
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