Word list · B2 Upper-intermediate

B2 vocabulary list

250 words at B2 level, each with pronunciation, a plain definition and a sentence showing it in use. B2 is where unedited news, films and workplace English become workable. The words start appearing more in writing than in speech.

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1
abandon
/əˈbæn.dən/

To give up completely or leave behind permanently.

They had to abandon the sinking ship before it went under.
2
abstract
/ˈæb.strækt/

Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical existence.

The concept of justice is abstract and open to interpretation.
3
accidentally
/ˌæksəˈdɛnt(ə)li/

In an accidental manner; by chance, unexpectedly.

He discovered penicillin largely accidentally.
4
accomplish
/əˈkɒm.plɪʃ/

To achieve or complete something successfully.

She managed to accomplish all her goals before the deadline.
5
accuse
/əˈkjuːz/

To say that someone has done something wrong or illegal.

They accused him of stealing the money.
6
acknowledge
/əkˈnɒl.ɪdʒ/

To accept or admit the existence or truth of.

He refused to acknowledge his mistake.
7
acquire
/əˈkwaɪr/

To get or buy something, or to learn a skill.

The company acquired two smaller firms last year.
8
adequate
/ˈæd.ɪ.kwət/

Sufficient for a specific need or requirement.

The supplies were barely adequate for the long journey.
9
ambulance
/ˈæm.bjə.ləns/

A vehicle that carries sick or injured people to hospital.

An ambulance arrived within minutes of the call.
10
amusing
/əˈmjuː.zɪŋ/

Funny and entertaining.

He told an amusing story about his first day at work.
11
anticipate
/ænˈtɪs.ɪ.peɪt/

To regard as probable or expect something to happen.

We anticipate a busy season ahead.
12
apparently
/əˈpær.ənt.li/

As far as one knows or can see; seemingly.

Apparently, the meeting has been moved to next week.
13
armed
/ɑːrmd/

Carrying or using weapons.

Armed guards stood at the entrance to the bank.
14
ashamed
/əˈʃeɪmd/

To feel shame; to be ashamed.

ashamed of something She was deeply ashamed of her behaviour at the party.
15
aspect
/ˈæs.pekt/

One part or feature of a situation, idea, or problem.

Cost is an important aspect of any building project.
16
assign
/əˈsaɪn/

To give someone a task, or to give something for a particular purpose.

The teacher assigned homework to the whole class.
17
assume
/əˈsuːm/

To accept something as true without proof.

I assumed you were coming, so I bought you a ticket.
18
balanced
/ˈbælənst/

To bring (items) to an equipoise, as the scales of a balance by adjusting the weights.

The programme presented a balanced view of the two sides of the conflict.
19
barely
/ˈber.li/

Only just; almost not.

She barely made it to the train on time.
20
bargain
/ˈbɑːr.ɡɪn/

A thing bought or offered for sale cheaply; a negotiated agreement.

He found a real bargain at the flea market.
21
bat
/bæt/

A small flying mammal, or a stick used in sports.

A bat swooped through the garden at dusk.
22
bitter
/ˈbɪt.ər/

Having a sharp, unpleasant taste; feeling angry or resentful.

The bitter cold made it impossible to stay outside for long.
23
boastfulness
/ˈboʊst.fəl.nəs/

The quality of talking with excessive pride about oneself.

His boastfulness at parties made him unpopular with colleagues.
24
brick
/bɹɪk/

A hardened rectangular block of mud, clay etc., used for building.

This wall is made of bricks.
25
bug
/bʌɡ/

A small insect, or a fault in a computer program.

The developers fixed a bug that crashed the app.
26
bunch
/bʌntʃ/

A group of things growing or fastened together.

He bought a bunch of grapes at the market.
27
cabin
/ˈkæb.ɪn/

A small, simple house, often made of wood.

They rented a log cabin by the lake.
28
civil
/ˈsɪv.əl/

Relating to ordinary citizens rather than the military; polite.

The protest called for equal civil rights.
29
collapse
/kəˈlæps/

To fall down or give way suddenly.

The old bridge collapsed under the weight of the truck.
30
colourful
/ˈkʌl.ər.fəl/

Having many bright colors.

The market was full of colourful fruits and fabrics.
31
commission
/kəˈmɪʃən/

A sending or mission (to do or accomplish something).

commission somebody to do something She has been commissioned to write a new national anthem.
32
committee
/kəˈmɪt.i/

A group of people chosen to make decisions for a larger group.

The committee meets monthly to plan school events.
33
compose
/kəmˈpoʊz/

To write music or text, or to form the parts of something.

Mozart composed his first symphony as a child.
34
compound
/ˈkɑːm.paʊnd/

Something made of two or more parts, especially a chemical substance.

Water is a compound of hydrogen and oxygen.
35
comprehensive
/ˌkɒm.prɪˈhen.sɪv/

Complete and including all or nearly all elements.

The report provided a comprehensive analysis of the market.
36
compulsory
/kəmˈpʌl.sər.i/

Required by law or a rule; obligatory.

Education is compulsory for children up to the age of sixteen.
37
concrete
/ˈkɑːn.kriːt/

A hard building material made from cement, sand, and water.

The new bridge is made of steel and concrete.
38
conflict
/ˈkɒn.flɪkt/

A serious disagreement or argument; a prolonged struggle.

The conflict between the two nations lasted for years.
39
conscious
/ˈkɑːn.ʃəs/

Awake and aware of your surroundings, or noticing something.

The patient was conscious during the whole operation.
40
considerable
/kənˈsɪd.ər.ə.bl̩/

Notably large in size, amount, or extent.

She devoted a considerable amount of time to the project.
41
controversial
/ˌkɒn.trəˈvɜːr.ʃəl/

Giving rise or likely to give rise to public disagreement.

The controversial decision sparked protests across the country.
42
convention
/kənˈven.ʃən/

A large meeting of people with a shared interest, or an accepted way of behaving.

Thousands of fans attended the comic book convention.
43
conventional
/kənˈven.ʃən.əl/

Based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed.

The conventional approach proved insufficient for the new challenge.
44
convey
/kənˈveɪ/

To transport or carry to a place; to communicate a message.

Words cannot convey how grateful I am.
45
cope
/kəʊp/

To deal effectively with something, especially if difficult.

I thought I would never be able to cope with life after the amputation, but I have learned how to be happy again.
46
core
/kɔː/

The central part of fruit, containing the kernels or seeds.

the core of an apple or quince
47
corridor
/ˈkɒɹɪˌdɔː(ɹ)/

A narrow hall or passage with rooms leading off it, as in a building or in a railway carriage.

His room is along the corridor.
48
courage
/ˈkʌr.ɪdʒ/

The ability to do something that frightens one; bravery.

It takes courage to stand up for what is right.
49
coward
/ˈkaʊ.ərd/

A person who lacks the courage to do or endure dangerous things.

Only a coward would refuse to help someone in need.
50
criterion
/kraɪˈtɪr.i.ən/

A standard by which something may be judged.

The main criterion for selection was relevant experience.
51
crucial
/ˈkruː.ʃəl/

Of great importance; critical.

The next few days will be crucial for the negotiations.
52
curious
/ˈkjʊr.i.əs/

Eager to know or learn something new.

The curious child asked questions about everything.
53
cute
/kjuːt/

Attractive in a pretty or charming way.

The puppy looked cute in its little red coat.
54
dairy
/ˈder.i/

A farm or building where milk and milk products are produced.

Fresh cheese from the local dairy was sold at the market.
55
dare
/der/

To be brave enough to do something risky.

He didn't dare to jump from the high rock.
56
declare
/dɪˈkler/

To announce something officially or publicly.

The chairman declared the meeting open.
57
decoration
/ˌdek.əˈreɪ.ʃən/

Something added to make a thing look more attractive.

We hung decorations around the room for the party.
58
deeply
/ˈdiːp.li/

To a great depth or extent; profoundly.

She was deeply moved by the generous donation.
59
defend
/dɪˈfend/

To protect someone or something from attack or criticism.

The soldiers fought to defend the city.
60
delete
/dɪˈliːt/

To remove something, especially from a computer or text.

I accidentally deleted the email before reading it.
61
deliberate
/dɪˈlɪb.ər.ət/

Done consciously and intentionally; careful and unhurried.

It was a deliberate attempt to mislead the public.
62
deliberately
/dɪˈlɪb.ər.ət.li/

Consciously and intentionally; on purpose.

She deliberately avoided the topic during the meeting.
63
delighted
/dɪˈlaɪ.tɪd/

Very pleased and happy.

She was delighted with her birthday surprise.
64
demand
/dɪˈmænd/

A strong request, or the need people have for goods.

Demand for electric cars is rising quickly.
65
devote
/dɪˈvoʊt/

To give time or resources to a person or activity.

She decided to devote her career to medical research.
66
diligent
/ˈdɪl.ɪ.dʒənt/

Having or showing care and conscientiousness in one's work.

The diligent student spent extra hours preparing for the exam.
67
disappoint
/dɪsəˈpɔɪnt/

To sadden or displease (someone) by underperforming, or by not delivering something promised or hoped for.

His lack of respect disappointed her.
68
discourage
/dɪˈskɜːr.ɪdʒ/

To make someone less confident or less willing to do something.

Don't let one failure discourage you from trying again.
69
distinguish
/dɪˈstɪŋ.ɡwɪʃ/

To recognize or treat as different.

Twins can be hard to distinguish from one another.
70
diverse
/daɪˈvɜːrs/

Showing a great deal of variety.

The city has a diverse population from many cultural backgrounds.
71
dominant
/ˈdɒm.ɪ.nənt/

Most important, powerful, or influential.

The company held a dominant position in the market.
72
dozen
/ˈdʌz.ən/

A group of twelve.

She bought a dozen eggs at the farmers' market.
73
dream interpretation
/driːm ɪnˌtɜːr.prɪˈteɪ.ʃən/

The process of assigning meaning to dreams.

Dream interpretation has been practiced since ancient times.
74
dreamlike
/ˈdriːm.laɪk/

Having the qualities of a dream; unreal.

The foggy landscape had a dreamlike quality about it.
75
drought
/draʊt/

A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall.

The severe drought destroyed crops across the entire region.
76
durable
/ˈdʊr.ə.bl̩/

Able to withstand wear, pressure, or damage.

These durable hiking boots lasted for years.
77
edition
/ɪˈdɪʃ.ən/

A particular version of a book, newspaper, or product.

He owns a first edition of the famous novel.
78
elegant
/ˈel.ɪ.ɡənt/

Graceful and stylish in appearance or manner.

She wore an elegant dress to the charity gala.
79
eliminate
/ɪˈlɪm.ɪ.neɪt/

To remove or get rid of something completely.

The new process eliminates most errors.
80
emphasize
/ˈem.fə.saɪz/

To give special importance or prominence to.

The teacher emphasized the need for regular practice.
81
encounter
/ɪnˈkaʊn.tər/

To unexpectedly experience or be faced with.

They encountered several obstacles during the expedition.
82
engage
/ɪnˈɡeɪdʒ/

To take part in something, or to attract someone's interest.

Good teachers know how to engage their students.
83
enhance
/ɪnˈhɑːns/

To intensify, increase, or further improve the quality of.

The new software will enhance the user experience.
84
enthusiasm
/ɪnˈθuː.zi.æz.əm/

A strong feeling of excitement and interest.

The fans cheered with great enthusiasm.
85
equivalent
/ɪˈkwɪv.əl.ənt/

Equal in value, amount, function, or meaning.

One mile is roughly equivalent to 1.6 kilometers.
86
ethical
/ˈeθ.ɪ.kəl/

Relating to moral principles or the branch of knowledge about them.

The committee discussed the ethical implications of the experiment.
87
evaluation
/ɪˌvæl.juˈeɪ.ʃən/

The process of judging the quality or value of something.

Each employee receives a yearly performance evaluation.
88
excessive
/ɪkˈses.ɪv/

More than what is normal, necessary, or desirable.

Excessive noise from the construction site disturbed the neighborhood.
89
excuse
/ɪkˈskjus/

Explanation designed to avoid or alleviate guilt or negative judgment; a plea offered in extenuation of a fault.

Tell me why you were late – and I don't want to hear any excuses!
90
exploit
/ɪkˈsplɔɪt/

To make full use of a resource; to use someone unfairly.

The company sought to exploit new market opportunities.
91
extensive
/ɪkˈsten.sɪv/

Covering a large area or having a great range.

She has extensive experience in international law.
92
extent
/ɪkˈstent/

The size, degree, or importance of something.

We were shocked by the extent of the damage.
93
extreme
/ɪkˈstriːm/

Very great in degree, or far beyond what is usual.

Athletes train in extreme heat to prepare for the race.
94
favour
/ˈfeɪ.vər/

A kind action you do to help someone.

Could you do me a favour and water my plants?
95
figure
/ˈfɪɡ.jər/

A number, a body shape, or an important person.

Sales figures improved in the second half of the year.
96
finding
/ˈfaɪn.dɪŋ/

A piece of information discovered through research.

The study's main finding surprised the scientists.
97
firm
/fɜːrm/

A business or company.

She joined a law firm after graduating.
98
follower
/ˈfɒl.oʊ.ər/

A person who follows or supports a particular person or cause.

She gained thousands of followers on social media.
99
forbid
/fərˈbɪd/

To refuse to allow something; to prohibit.

The rules forbid the use of mobile phones during class.
100
forgive
/fərˈɡɪv/

To stop feeling angry or resentful toward someone for an offense.

It took years for her to forgive the betrayal.
101
formerly
/ˈfɔːr.mər.li/

In the past; in earlier times.

The building was formerly used as a school.
102
fortune
/ˈfɔːr.tʃuːn/

A large amount of money or assets; chance or luck.

She made a fortune in the technology industry.
103
forward
/ˈfɔːr.wərd/

Toward the front or the future.

He leaned forward to hear the speaker better.
104
founder
/ˈfaʊn.dər/

A person who establishes an organization or company.

The founder of the charity gave a moving speech.
105
fraction
/ˈfræk.ʃən/

A part of a whole number, or a very small amount.

Only a fraction of the applicants were invited to interview.
106
framework
/ˈfreɪm.wɜːrk/

A basic structure of ideas or rules that supports something.

The law provides a framework for protecting workers.
107
freedom
/ˈfriː.dəm/

The right to act, speak, or live as you choose.

The constitution guarantees freedom of speech.
108
frequent
/ˈfriː.kwənt/

Occurring or done many times at short intervals.

Frequent exercise is essential for maintaining good health.
109
fundamentally
/ˌfʌn.dəˈmen.təl.i/

In a central or primary way; at the most basic level.

The two approaches are fundamentally different.
110
funding
/ˈfʌn.dɪŋ/

Money given for a particular purpose.

The lab received funding for cancer research.
111
generate
/ˈdʒɛn.əɹ.eɪt/

To bring into being; give rise to.

The discussion generated an uproar.
112
genuine
/ˈdʒen.ju.ɪn/

Truly what something is said to be; authentic.

The painting was confirmed to be a genuine masterpiece.
113
goodness
/ˈɡʊd.nəs/

The quality of being kind and morally good.

She helped strangers out of pure goodness.
114
gradually
/ˈɡrædʒ.u.əl.i/

In a gradual way; slowly.

The pain gradually subsided over the course of the day.
115
grapple
/ˈɡræp.l̩/

To struggle or wrestle with a problem or challenge.

Scientists continue to grapple with the complexities of climate change.
116
gratitude
/ˈɡræt.ɪ.tjuːd/

The quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation.

She expressed deep gratitude to everyone who helped during the crisis.
117
hesitate
/ˈhez.ɪ.teɪt/

To pause before saying or doing something through uncertainty.

He hesitated before answering the difficult question.
118
hinder
/ˈhɪn.dər/

To create difficulties that delay or prevent progress.

Heavy rain hindered the construction work for several days.
119
hip
/hɪp/

The joint where your leg joins your body at the side.

Grandma needed surgery to replace her hip.
120
hire
/haɪr/

To pay someone to work for you, or to pay to use something.

The restaurant hired two new cooks for the summer.
121
hollow
/ˈhɒl.oʊ/

Having an empty space or cavity inside.

The children hid inside the hollow tree trunk.
122
homeless
/ˈhoʊm.ləs/

Without a place to live.

The charity provides meals for homeless people.
123
hunt
/hʌnt/

To chase and try to catch animals, or to search for something.

Owls hunt at night for small animals.
124
hypothesis
/haɪˈpɒθ.ə.sɪs/

A proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence.

The scientist tested her hypothesis through a series of experiments.
125
identical
/aɪˈden.tɪ.kəl/

Similar in every detail; exactly alike.

The twins were almost identical in appearance.
126
immigration
/ɪmɪˈɡɹeɪʃn/

The act of immigrating; the passing or coming into a country of which one is not native born for the purpose of permanent residence.

legal/illegal immigration
127
implement
/ˈɪm.plɪ.ment/

To put a plan or decision into effect.

The school plans to implement the new curriculum next year.
128
implication
/ˌɪm.plɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/

A possible effect or result, or something suggested but not said.

The new tax has serious implications for small businesses.
129
impose
/ɪmˈpoʊz/

To force something to be accepted or put in place.

The government decided to impose stricter regulations.
130
incentive
/ɪnˈsen.tɪv/

A thing that motivates or encourages one to do something.

The bonus served as a strong incentive for the sales team.
131
inevitable
/ɪnˈev.ɪ.tə.bl̩/

Certain to happen; unavoidable.

Change is inevitable in any growing organization.
132
innovative
/ˈɪn.ə.veɪ.tɪv/

Featuring new methods or original ideas.

The company is known for its innovative approach to design.
133
input
/ˈɪn.pʊt/

Ideas, information, or data put into something.

We'd value your input on the new design.
134
insight
/ˈɪn.saɪt/

A clear, deep understanding of something.

The book gives real insight into life in the 1920s.
135
instantly
/ˈɪn.stənt.li/

At once; immediately.

The message was delivered instantly to all recipients.
136
integrate
/ˈɪn.tɪ.ɡreɪt/

To combine one thing with another to form a whole.

The school worked to integrate technology into the classroom.
137
interpret
/ɪnˈtɜːr.prɪt/

To explain the meaning of something, or to translate speech.

Scientists are still trying to interpret the strange signal.
138
jail
/dʒeɪl/

A place where criminals are kept locked up; a prison.

He spent two years in jail for fraud.
139
jeopardize
/ˈdʒep.ər.daɪz/

To put something or someone into a situation of risk or danger.

Cheating on the exam could jeopardize her entire academic career.
140
joint
/dʒɔɪnt/

The point where two components of a structure join, but are still able to rotate.

This rod is free to swing at the joint with the platform.
141
justify
/ˈdʒʌs.tɪ.faɪ/

To show or prove to be right or reasonable.

He tried to justify his decision with a detailed explanation.
142
kindle
/ˈkɪn.dl̩/

To light or set on fire; to arouse or inspire an emotion.

The teacher's passion for science kindled curiosity in her students.
143
kit
/kɪt/

A set of tools or equipment kept together for a purpose.

Every car should carry a first-aid kit.
144
knack
/næk/

An acquired or natural skill at performing a task.

She has a knack for remembering people's names after meeting them once.
145
latest
/ˈleɪ.tɪst/

The most recent or newest.

Have you seen the latest episode of the show?
146
legend
/ˈledʒ.ənd/

A traditional story sometimes regarded as historical but not authenticated.

The legend of King Arthur has inspired countless stories.
147
limited
/ˈlɪm.ɪ.tɪd/

Restricted in amount, size, or number.

The offer is available for a limited time only.
148
logo
/ˈləʊɡəʊ/

A visual symbol or emblem that acts as a trademark or a means of identification of a company or organization.

All over the world there are red and white paper cups bearing the company logo.
149
loyal
/ˈlɔɪ.əl/

Giving or showing firm and constant support to a person or institution.

A loyal friend will stand by you in difficult times.
150
lustful
/ˈlʌst.fəl/

Having or showing strong feelings of sexual desire.

The lustful gaze made her uncomfortable.
151
magnificent
/mæɡˈnɪf.ɪ.sənt/

Extremely beautiful, elaborate, or impressive.

The view from the mountaintop was absolutely magnificent.
152
mate
/meɪt/

A friend, or the partner of an animal.

He went to the pub with his mates after work.
153
model
/ˈmɑː.dəl/

A small copy of something, or an example to follow.

He built a model of the ship from a kit.
154
modest
/ˈmɒd.ɪst/

Unassuming in the estimation of one's abilities; moderate in size.

Despite her achievements, she remained modest and approachable.
155
monument
/ˈmɑːn.jə.mənt/

A structure built to remind people of a person or event.

The monument honors soldiers who died in the war.
156
narrow
/ˈnær.oʊ/

Of small width in relation to length.

They walked down the narrow alley between the buildings.
157
neutral
/ˈnuː.trəl/

Not supporting either side in a disagreement.

Switzerland remained neutral during the war.
158
nevertheless
/ˌnev.ər.ðəˈles/

Despite what has just been said; however.

The trail was steep; nevertheless, they reached the top.
159
nostalgia
/nɒˈstæl.dʒə/

A sentimental longing for the happiness of a former place or time.

The old song filled her with nostalgia for her university days.
160
notion
/ˈnoʊ.ʃən/

A conception of or belief about something.

She had a vague notion of what the job would involve.
161
novice
/ˈnɒv.ɪs/

A person new to or inexperienced in a field or situation.

As a novice programmer, she started with simple coding exercises.
162
nurture
/ˈnɜːr.tʃər/

To care for and encourage the growth or development of.

Good teachers nurture curiosity and a love of learning.
163
obsolete
/ˌɒb.səˈliːt/

No longer produced or used; out of date.

Typewriters have become obsolete since the rise of personal computers.
164
obstacle
/ˈɒb.stə.kl̩/

A thing that blocks one's way or prevents progress.

Lack of funding was the main obstacle to the project.
165
obtain
/əbˈteɪn/

To get, acquire, or secure something.

She worked hard to obtain her medical degree.
166
occasionally
/əˈkeɪ.ʒən.əl.i/

At infrequent or irregular intervals; now and then.

He occasionally visits his childhood hometown.
167
occupy
/ˈɑː.kjə.paɪ/

To fill a space or time, or to live or be in a place.

A large bookcase occupies one wall of the office.
168
openly
/ˈoʊ.pən.li/

Honestly and without hiding anything.

They spoke openly about their financial problems.
169
oppose
/əˈpoʊz/

To disagree with something and try to stop it.

Many residents oppose the plan for a new highway.
170
outline
/ˈaʊt.laɪn/

A general description giving the essential features of something.

She presented an outline of the project plan.
171
overnight
/ˌoʊ.vərˈnaɪt/

During or for the night; also suddenly.

We stayed overnight at a small country inn.
172
packet
/ˈpæk.ɪt/

A small paper or plastic container holding goods.

He opened a packet of biscuits with his tea.
173
perceive
/pərˈsiːv/

To become aware of something through the senses.

She could perceive a faint smell of smoke in the air.
174
phenomenon
/fɪˈnɒm.ɪ.nən/

A fact or situation that is observed to exist or happen.

The northern lights are a spectacular natural phenomenon.
175
pill
/pɪl/

A small, solid piece of medicine that you swallow.

Take one pill twice a day after meals.
176
pity
/ˈpɪt.i/

A feeling of sadness for someone's suffering, or an unfortunate situation.

It's a pity you can't come to the wedding.
177
pointed
/ˈpɔɪntɪd/

To extend the index finger in the direction of something in order to show where it is or to draw attention to it.

It's rude to point at other people.
178
precisely
/prɪˈsaɪs.li/

In exact terms; without vagueness.

The train arrived precisely on schedule.
179
preserve
/prɪˈzɜːrv/

To maintain something in its original or existing state.

The museum works to preserve artifacts for future generations.
180
primarily
/pɹaɪˈmɛɹəli/

(focus) Of a primary or central nature, first and foremost

a course designed primarily for specialists
181
prohibit
/prəˈhɪb.ɪt/

To formally forbid something by law or authority.

Smoking is prohibited inside all public buildings.
182
prospect
/ˈprɒs.pekt/

The possibility or likelihood of some future event occurring.

There is little prospect of an agreement being reached.
183
pupil
/ˈpjuː.pəl/

A child at school, or the dark center of the eye.

Every pupil in the class passed the test.
184
pursue
/pərˈsjuː/

To follow someone or something to catch or attack them.

The detective continued to pursue every lead in the case.
185
quarantine
/ˈkwɒr.ən.tiːn/

A period of isolation imposed to prevent the spread of disease.

The passengers were placed in quarantine after a suspected outbreak on board.
186
quench
/kwentʃ/

To satisfy a thirst or desire; to extinguish a fire.

Nothing could quench his thirst for adventure.
187
ramble
/ˈræm.bl̩/

To talk or write at length in a confused or inconsequential way.

The speaker began to ramble and lost the attention of the audience.
188
rapid
/ˈræp.ɪd/

Happening in a short time or at great speed.

The rapid growth of the city surprised urban planners.
189
recruitment
/rɪˈkruːt.mənt/

The process of finding new people to join a company or organization.

The firm's recruitment drive attracted hundreds of applicants.
190
reduction
/rɪˈdʌk.ʃən/

The act of making something smaller in size, amount, or price.

Customers enjoyed a twenty percent reduction on all coats.
191
reinforce
/ˌriː.ɪnˈfɔːrs/

To strengthen or support with additional material or assistance.

They reinforced the levee before the flood waters arrived.
192
resolve
/rɪˈzɒlv/

To settle or find a solution to a problem.

They managed to resolve the dispute through mediation.
193
restore
/rɪˈstɔːr/

To return something to a former condition.

The team worked to restore the historic building to its former glory.
194
reveal
/rɪˈviːl/

To make previously unknown information known.

The investigation revealed serious safety violations.
195
rival
/ˈraɪ.vəl/

A person or thing competing with another for the same objective.

The two companies were fierce rivals in the smartphone market.
196
satisfied
/ˈsæt.ɪs.faɪd/

Pleased because something happened as you wanted.

She was satisfied with her exam results.
197
scratch
/skrætʃ/

To rub your skin with your nails, or to mark a surface with something sharp.

The cat scratched the leather sofa again.
198
secure
/sɪˈkjʊr/

Safe from danger, or firmly fixed.

Keep your passport in a secure place.
199
serene
/sɪˈriːn/

Calm, peaceful, and untroubled.

The serene lake reflected the mountains like a perfect mirror.
200
settle
/ˈset.əl/

To end an argument, to decide something, or to start living in a place.

The two companies settled their dispute out of court.
201
severe
/sɪˈvɪr/

Very serious or extreme; harsh.

The region was hit by a severe drought.
202
severely
/sɪˈvɪr.li/

To a very great or serious degree; strictly.

The region was severely affected by the drought.
203
sexy
/ˈsek.si/

Sexually attractive or exciting.

She wore a sexy black dress to the party.
204
shadow
/ˈʃæd.oʊ/

A dark area produced by a body blocking light.

The tree cast a long shadow across the garden.
205
shallow
/ˈʃæl.oʊ/

Of little depth; not exhibiting great knowledge or thought.

The children played in the shallow end of the pool.
206
shelter
/ˈʃel.tər/

A place giving protection from bad weather or danger.

They found shelter from the rain under a large tree.
207
shooting
/ˈʃuːtɪŋ/

To launch a projectile.

Terrorist groups claimed responsibility for the shootings and bomb attacks.
208
short-term
/ˌʃɔːrtˈtɜːrm/

Lasting or planned for only a short period of time.

The job is short-term, ending in March.
209
signature
/ˈsɪɡ.nə.tʃər/

Your name written in your own way, used to sign documents.

Please put your signature at the bottom of the form.
210
soul
/soʊl/

The spiritual or immaterial part of a human being.

Music speaks directly to the soul.
211
speculate
/ˈspek.jə.leɪt/

To form a theory without firm evidence.

Analysts speculated about the outcome of the election.
212
spokesperson
/ˈspoʊks.pɜːr.sən/

A person who speaks officially for a group or organization.

A company spokesperson confirmed the news yesterday.
213
spontaneous
/spɒnˈteɪ.ni.əs/

Performed or occurring without premeditation or external stimulus.

Their spontaneous road trip turned out to be the best vacation ever.
214
stance
/stæns/

The way in which someone stands; an attitude or position.

The company took a firm stance against discrimination.
215
steady
/ˈsted.i/

Firmly fixed, supported, or balanced; not shaking.

She held the camera steady to take a clear photograph.
216
stimulate
/ˈstɪm.jə.leɪt/

To raise levels of activity or interest.

The tax cuts were designed to stimulate economic growth.
217
subsequently
/ˈsʌb.sɪ.kwənt.li/

After a particular thing has happened; afterward.

He initially denied the charges but subsequently confessed.
218
super
/ˈsuː.pər/

Extremely good; excellent.

The view from the roof terrace is super.
219
switch
/swɪtʃ/

To change from one thing to another, or a control for electricity.

He switched to a cheaper phone plan.
220
sympathy
/ˈsɪm.pə.θi/

Feelings of pity and sorrow for someone else's misfortune.

She expressed her sympathy to the grieving family.
221
terribly
/ˈter.ə.bli/

Very much, or very badly.

I'm terribly sorry for being late.
222
terrify
/ˈter.ə.faɪ/

To frighten someone very much.

Loud thunderstorms terrify my dog.
223
thorough
/ˈθɜːr.oʊ/

Complete with regard to every detail; not superficial.

The detective conducted a thorough investigation of the crime scene.
224
thoroughly
/ˈθɜːr.oʊ.li/

In a thorough manner; completely.

She thoroughly cleaned the house before the guests arrived.
225
trace
/tɹeɪs/

An act of tracing.

Your cell phone company can put a trace on your line.
226
trading
/ˈtreɪ.dɪŋ/

The activity of buying and selling goods or services.

The port has been a center of trading for centuries.
227
tranquil
/ˈtræŋ.kwɪl/

Free from disturbance; calm and peaceful.

The tranquil garden was the perfect place for meditation.
228
transform
/trænsˈfɔːrm/

To change something completely, usually to make it better.

The renovation transformed the old factory into apartments.
229
treasure
/ˈtreʒ.ər/

A quantity of precious objects; something valued highly.

The pirates buried their treasure on the island.
230
trivial
/ˈtrɪv.i.əl/

Of little value or importance; insignificant.

They wasted hours arguing over trivial matters.
231
tsunami
/tsuːˈnɑː.mi/

A very large ocean wave caused by an earthquake under the sea.

The tsunami destroyed villages all along the coast.
232
unknown
/ʌnˈnoʊn/

Not known or familiar.

The author of the poem remains unknown.
233
uproot
/ʌpˈruːt/

To pull something out of the ground; to displace from a home.

The family was uprooted when the company relocated.
234
urgent
/ˈɜːr.dʒənt/

Requiring immediate action or attention.

The doctor received an urgent call from the hospital.
235
utilise
/ˈjuː.tɪ.laɪz/

To make practical and effective use of something.

The team learned to utilise every available resource efficiently.
236
vast
/væst/

Of very great extent or quantity; immense.

The vast desert stretched as far as the eye could see.
237
violence
/ˈvaɪə.ləns/

Behavior intended to hurt or kill people.

The film was criticized for its graphic violence.
238
vitamin
/ˈvaɪ.tə.mɪn/

A natural substance in food that your body needs to stay healthy.

Oranges are rich in vitamin C.
239
voluntary
/ˈvɑː.lən.ter.i/

Done willingly, without being forced or paid.

She does voluntary work at the local hospital.
240
wander
/ˈwɒn.dər/

To walk or move in a leisurely or aimless way.

They wandered through the old town admiring the architecture.
241
warming
/ˈwɔːr.mɪŋ/

An increase in temperature, especially of the Earth.

Global warming is melting the polar ice.
242
wary
/ˈwer.i/

Feeling or showing caution about possible dangers or problems.

She was wary of strangers offering unsolicited help.
243
wealthy
/ˈwel.θi/

Having a lot of money or possessions; rich.

The hotel caters to wealthy tourists.
244
whirlwind
/ˈwɜːrl.wɪnd/

A column of air moving rapidly; a situation of hectic activity.

The whirlwind tour of Europe lasted only ten days.
245
whiskers
/ˈwɪs.kərz/

Long projecting hairs growing on the face of an animal or person.

The cat's whiskers twitched as it sensed movement.
246
whisper
/ˈwɪs.pər/

To speak very softly using one's breath.

She leaned over to whisper the secret in his ear.
247
wholesome
/ˈhoʊl.səm/

Conducive to or promoting good health and well-being.

She prepared a wholesome meal with fresh vegetables.
248
wisdom
/ˈwɪz.dəm/

The quality of having experience, knowledge, and good judgment.

With age comes wisdom and a deeper understanding of life.
249
wise
/waɪz/

Having or showing experience, knowledge, and good judgment.

It would be wise to consult a lawyer before signing.
250
workplace
/ˈwɜːrk.pleɪs/

The place where you work, such as an office or factory.

New safety rules were introduced in the workplace.

How to use a list like this

Reading a word list start to finish is the least effective thing you can do with it. Vocabulary sticks when you meet a word in context, need it, and retrieve it later. A list is useful for two narrower jobs: finding the gaps, and checking whether the level you were assigned matches what you actually know.

A practical pass: scroll through, mark the words you could not define to a friend, and put only those into whatever review system you use. Twenty unknown words handled properly beat two hundred skimmed.

Where these levels come from

Each word here carries the level our own test assigns it, based on frequency banding rather than an official CEFR wordlist. The CEFR describes what you can do with a language, not which words you must know, so no authoritative per-word list exists. Treat the level as a useful sorting of frequency, not a ruling.

Background on the numbers: vocabulary size by CEFR level, how many English words the average person knows and the native speaker gap.

← B1 word list All levels C1 word list →

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English Vocabulary Size Test on Android tests you on the same words, keeps your history, and schedules the ones you missed for spaced repetition. Works offline, 16 interface languages.

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B2 vocabulary list

Are you actually at B2?

abandon

abstract

accidentally

accomplish

accuse

acknowledge

acquire

adequate

ambulance

amusing

anticipate

apparently

armed

ashamed

aspect

assign

assume

balanced

barely

bargain

bat

bitter

boastfulness

brick

bug

bunch

cabin

civil

collapse

colourful

commission

committee

compose

compound

comprehensive

compulsory

concrete

conflict

conscious

considerable

controversial

convention

conventional

convey

cope

core

corridor

courage

coward

criterion

crucial

curious

cute

dairy

dare

declare

decoration

deeply

defend

delete

deliberate

deliberately

delighted

demand

devote

diligent

disappoint

discourage

distinguish

diverse

dominant

dozen

dream interpretation

dreamlike

drought

durable

edition

elegant