C1 English Vocabulary List (CEFR)

noun · /ˈkætələst/

Something that causes or speeds up a change or event

“The financial crisis was a catalyst for major policy reform.”

noun · /ˈpɛrəˌdaɪm/

A model or pattern that represents how something works

“The internet created a new paradigm for communication.”

adjective · /ɑrˈtɪkjəˌleɪt/

Able to express ideas clearly and effectively

“She is a very articulate speaker who explains ideas clearly.”

verb · /ˈmɪtəˌɡeɪt/

To make something less severe, serious, or painful

“We must find ways to mitigate the effects of climate change.”

adjective · /præɡˈmætɪk/

Dealing with problems in a practical way rather than following fixed ideas

“We need to take a more pragmatic approach to this problem.”

adjective · /juˈbɪkwɪtəs/

Seeming to appear or exist everywhere at the same time

“Smartphones have become ubiquitous in modern life.”

adjective · /ˈɛləkwənt/

Expressing ideas fluently and in a way that is persuasive or moving

“Her eloquent speech moved the entire audience.”

noun · /ˈnuɑns/

A subtle difference in meaning, expression, or sound

“He appreciated the nuances of French cuisine.”

adjective · /æmˈbɪvələnt/

Having mixed or contradictory feelings about something

“She felt ambivalent about leaving her hometown for the new job.”

verb · /ˈskrutəˌnaɪz/

To examine something very carefully and critically

“The committee scrutinized every detail of the proposal.”