General Upper-Intermediate Vocab

Refusing to change your opinion or decision, no matter what anyone says

She was adamant that she had locked the door before leaving the house.

Willing to take surprisingly bold risks or do things that shock people

It was audacious of him to ask for a raise after only one week at the job.

Expressing ideas clearly using only a few words, without unnecessary details

The teacher asked us to write a concise summary of the article in three sentences.

skillful at avoiding capture

Success in the music industry can be elusive, even for very talented singers.

To make someone feel frustratred or furious

It exasperates me when people talk loudly on their phones in quiet places.

Having a disregard for danger or consequences.

Climbing the mountain without proper equipment was a foolhardy decision.

Twisted and rough with lines and/or bumps.

The old man's gnarled hands showed how many years he had spent working on the farm.

To beg someone very seriously or request with strong emotion to do something

The child implored his parents to let him stay up late to watch the movie.

Marked by casual disrespect.

The impudent student talked back to the teacher in front of the whole class.

Required by a rule or law; something that must be done

Wearing a seatbelt is mandatory in most countries, and you can get a fine if you do not.

Deeply or seriously thoughtful.

She sat by the window looking pensive after reading the letter from her old friend.

Relief from something painful or harmful.

The extra week given to finish the project felt like a reprieve for the stressed team.

Marked by practical hardheaded intelligence.

She was a shrewd businesswoman who always knew when to buy and when to sell.

Briefly giving the gist of something.

His succinct answer impressed the interviewer, who appreciated that he did not waste time.

Lacking in interest so as to cause mental weariness.

Entering the same data into the computer all day was a tedious task for the office worker.