Vocabulary

Abstract Nouns

concept · phenomenon · perception · dilemma · perspective

Words 1–4

Say each word after your teacher

concept
a general idea or principle /ˈkɒnsept/
The concept of time travel has fascinated writers for centuries.
phenomenon
something that happens and can be observed, especially something unusual /fəˈnɒmɪnən/
The northern lights are a natural phenomenon caused by solar wind.
tendency
a habit of behaving in a particular way /ˈtendənsi/
He has a tendency to leave everything until the last minute.
perception
the way someone understands or sees something /pəˈsepʃn/
Social media can distort our perception of what is normal.

Words 5–8

Say each word after your teacher

assumption
something you believe is true without proof /əˈsʌmpʃn/
I made the assumption that the shop was open — it wasn't.
perspective
a particular way of looking at something /pəˈspektɪv/
Travelling abroad gave her a completely new perspective on her own country.
dilemma
a situation where you must choose between two difficult options /dɪˈlemə/
I faced a dilemma: tell my friend the truth or keep the surprise.
notion
an idea or belief, often a vague one /ˈnəʊʃn/
The notion that cats hate water isn't always true — some love swimming.

Words 9–10

Say each word after your teacher

convention
a usual, accepted way of doing something /kənˈvenʃn/
Shaking hands is a social convention in many countries.
curiosity
a strong wish to know or learn something /ˌkjʊəriˈɒsəti/
Out of curiosity, I opened the old box in the attic.

Your turn

Answer out loud — full sentences

1
What is your perception of your own town? Has it changed?
2
Describe a dilemma you faced recently.
3
What social conventions in your country surprise visitors?
4
What do you have a tendency to do when you are stressed?
Practise with flashcards →
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