IELTS Academic Words: Nouns #8

A problem or difficulty to be overcome.

"Despite numerous hurdles, she managed to finish the marathon with an impressive time."

Something that blocks one's way or prevents progress.

"Despite numerous obstacles, she persevered with her education and eventually graduated with honors."

A difficult, unpleasant, or awkward situation.

"After losing her job and her apartment in the same week, she found herself in quite a predicament."

A reversal or obstacle in progress.

"Despite the setback of losing their biggest client, the company rallied and ended the year with record profits."

Rain polluted by harmful chemicals, often damaging to the environment.

"The ancient statues in the park have gradually deteriorated due to the corrosive effects of acid rain."

A smaller earthquake following a larger one.

"After the major earthquake, residents were on edge, bracing for a potential aftershock that could further damage the already weakened structures."

The practice of farming, including growing crops and raising livestock.

"Advancements in agriculture have greatly increased crop yields, helping to feed a growing global population."

Domesticated cows and bulls, often raised for meat and milk.

"The open fields were dotted with cattle grazing calmly in the afternoon sun."

The area where the land meets the sea.

"After a long week of work, they enjoyed a leisurely drive along the coast, taking in the serene view of the ocean."

The process of removing or clearing large areas of forest.

"Deforestation is drastically altering the landscape, leading to a loss of biodiversity and the depletion of natural habitats."

The removal of salt from seawater to make it safe for drinking and farming.

"Due to the scarcity of freshwater resources, the coastal city invested heavily in desalination technology to provide potable water for its citizens."

A current of air in a room or building.

"After several revisions, she submitted the final draft of her novel to the publisher."

The gradual wearing away of soil, rock, or land by natural elements like wind and water.

"The erosion of the cliff face has been a growing concern for the coastal village as it threatens to undermine the stability of homes near the edge."

An overflow of a large amount of water beyond its normal limits, covering usually dry land.

"After three days of heavy rainfall, the riverbanks could no longer contain the water, resulting in the flooding of the nearby village."

An organism that feeds off organic matter, like mushrooms or mold.

"A mushroom is a type of fungus that can be found in various shapes and sizes in the forest."

An animal that eats only plants.

"The cow, an iconic herbivore, grazes on grass for most of the day."

Molten rock that flows from a volcano.

"As the volcano erupted, the glowing lava flowed down the mountain, consuming everything in its path."

One of the colorful parts of a flower surrounding the center.

"A soft breeze caused the fragile petal to flutter to the ground."

The rate at which goods are produced or work is completed.

"Increasing the team's productivity hinged on improving their access to real-time data and better communication tools."

A small pool of water, often from rain.

"After the downpour, a large puddle formed in the middle of the playground, much to the delight of the children ready to splash around."