TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY

Vocabulary Definition Example Note

1. adapt (v) to change your behaviour - Some animals have a remarkable = to adjust
/əˈdæpt/ in order to deal more ability to adapt to changing
 - to adapt to sth successfully with a new environments.
- to adapt situation - How do these insects adapt
yourself to sth themselves to new environments?
2. adjust (v) to change sth slightly to - Taste the soup and adjust the
/əˈdʒʌst/ make it more suitable for seasoning.
 - to adjust sth a new set of conditions or - Watch out for sharp bends and
- to adjust sth to to make it work better adjust your speed accordingly.
sth -  Adjust your language to the age
of your audience.
3. alternate (a)(v) Alternate (a) = If sth Private cars are banned from the
/ˈɔːltəneɪt/ happens on alternate days, city on alternate days.
 - to alternate it happens every second
between sth day.
- to alternate Alternate (v) = to - She alternated between outrage
 - to alternate happen or to make sth and sympathy.
between/ with sth happen one after the other - Periods of depression alternate
- to alternate A repeatedly with excited behavior.
and/ with B - Twist your body, alternating right
and left stretches.
4. alternative (n)(a) Alternative (n) = a - Hydrogen offers a viable (= that
/ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv/ thing that you can choose can work as successfully)
to do or have out of two alternative to petrol and diesel.
or more possibilities -  Fruit juice is provided as an
alternative to alcoholic drinks.
- I was left with no alternative but
to seek legal advice.
- He had no alternative but to
resign.  to have no/ little
alternative (but to do sth)
Alternative (a): - The opposition parties have so far
- that can be used instead failed to set out an alternative
of sth else (1) strategy. (1)
- different from the usual - alternative ways/ approach/
or traditional way in methods/ etc (1)
which sth is done (2) - alternative medicine/ therapies
(= medical treatment that is not
based on the usual western
methods) (2)
- tolerance of alternative lifestyles
 (2)

5. - amend (v) Amend (v) = to change Until the constitution is amended,

/əˈmend/ the words of a text, esp a the power to appoint ministers
- amends (n) law or a legal document will remain with the president.
/əˈmendz/ Amends (n) = to do sth After his death, the scientific = to make up
 to make amends for sb in order to show community made amends for for; to
(to sb) (for sth/ that you are sorry for sth their initial disrespect by naming compensate
doing sth) wrong or unfair that you the metric unit of energy after him. for
have done
6. conservative not usually liking or - music which is accessible to an
trusting change, esp audience with extremely
sudden change conservative tastes
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7. convert (v)(n) Convert (v):
/kənˈvɜːt/  - to change or make sth
change from one form,
purpose, system, etc. to
another (1)
- to change your religion
or beliefs; to make sb
change their religion or
beliefs (2)
Convert (n) = a person
who has changed their
religion, beliefs or
opinions
8.decay (v)(n) Decay (v) = to be
/dɪˈkeɪ/ destroyed gradually by
natural processes; to
destroy sth in this way
Decay (n) = the process
or result of being
destroyed by natural
causes or by not being
cared for (= of decaying)
9. deteriorate (v) to become worse
/dɪˈtɪəriəreɪt/
10. distort (v)  to change facts, ideas,
/dɪˈstɔːt/ etc. so that they are no
longer correct or true
11. dynamic (a) continuously changing,
/daɪˈnæmɪk/ growing or developing
12. endure (v) to experience and deal
/ɪnˈdjʊə(r)/ with sth that is painful or
unpleasant without giving
up (1)
to continue to exist for a
long time (2)
13. evolve (v) to gradually change and
/ɪˈvɒlv/ develop over a period of
time (1)
when a type of plant or
animal evolves, its
- They were deeply conservative
in their outlook.
- What’s the formula for converting
pounds into kilograms ? (1)
- a 19th-century converted barn 
(= barn changed into a house) (1)
- We've converted from oil to gas
central heating. (1)
- She was soon converted to the
socialist cause. (2)
- European missionaries converted
thousands to Christianity. (2)
- an attempt to gain converts to
Communism
- converts from other faiths
- decaying organic matter = to rot
- decaying leaves/teeth/food
- tooth/ dental decay
- During the war, the area fell into
decay.
- Smoking accelerates age -
related decay in the heart and
arteties.
- The derelict buildings are the
signs of a town in decay.
- The discussion quickly
deteriorated into an angry
argument.
- The political situation in the
region has deteriorated rapidly.
His account was badly distorted
by the press.
- The process is essentially >< static (a)
dynamic with ideas and feedback
flowing both ways.
- These countries are characterized
by highly dynamic economies.
- He can’t endure being apart from = to bear sth
me.
- The family said they had endured
years of torment and abuse at the
hands of the neighbours.
The torn flag has endured as a
symbol of freedom.
- The idea evolved out of work
done by British scientists.
- The protest movement has
evolved into a well organize
political party.
- Animals have evolved
camouflage to protect themselves
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
physical form changes from predators.
over a long period of time - Monkeys in the New World
 (2) evolved quite separately from those
in the Old World.
14. influence (v)(n) Influence (v) = to affect - Be aware of external factors
/ˈɪnfluəns/ the way someone thinks which may unduly influence your
or behavesor affect the judgement.
way sth happens - Her parents tried to influence her
in her choice of university.
- Understaffing can adversely
influence the recovery of patients.
- Minor party candidates can
influence the outcome of elections.
Influence (n) = the - What is exactly is the influence of
effect that a person or social media on children?
thing has on sb’s - Technology exerts a powerful
decisions, opinions, or influence over our lives. ( = to
behaviour or on the way have an influence)
sth happens - The Federal Reserve exercises/
wields influence on the economy
by setting short-term interest rates.
( = to use it)
- They had come under the
influence of a religious sect.
- The religious community wished
to be independent of outside/
external influence.
15. innovation (n) Innovation (n) = a new - The recording industry is driven
/ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ idea, method, piece of by constant innovation.
 innovative (a) equipment, etc - recent innovations in steel-making
/ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/ technology
Innovative (a) = new, - an innovative approach to
original and advanced language teaching
- innovative schemes for recycling
waste materials
16. last (v) to continue to exist or to - This pen should last (you) a
/lɑːst/ function well (1) lifetime if you take care of it.
- Interest rates are at their lowest
level for a decade. I suggest you
enjoy it while it lasts.
 to survive sth or manage - He was injured early on and didn't
to stay in the same last the match.
situation, despite - Doctors say that she probably
difficulties (2) won't last out the night (= she will
probably die before the morning).
- Can you last out until I can get
help?
17. maintain (v) to make sth stay the same - to maintain law and order/ = to preserve
/meɪnˈteɪn/  (1) standards/ a balance/ control sth
- Despite living in different
countries, the two families have
maintained close links.
 to keep a building, a - The grounds are beautifully
machine, etc. in good maintained.
condition by checking or - The roads in the town have been
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
repairing it regularly (2)
to express firmly your
belieef that sth is true (3)
18.mature (a)(v) Mature (a) = (of a child
/məˈtʃʊə(r)/ or young person)
behaving in a sensible
way, like an adult
Mature (v) = to develop
emotionally and start to
behave like a sensible
adult
19. modify (v) to change sth slightly,
/ˈmɒdɪfaɪ/ especially in order to
make it more suitable for
a particular purpose
20. novel (a) new or unusual
/ˈnɒvl/
21. persist (v) to continue to do or say
/pəˈsɪst/ sth in a determined way
 (1)
to continue to exist (2)
22. potential (n)(a) Potential (n):
/pəˈtenʃl/
- the possibility of sth
happening or being
developed or used (1)
- qualities that exist and
can be developed (2)
Potential (a) = possible
or likely in the future
23. progress (v)(n) Progress (v):
to improve or develop
over a period of time; to
very poorly maintained.
- Critics maintain that these
reforms will lead to a decline in
educational standards.
- He maintained his innocence and
said the allegations were
‘ridiculous’.
- She tries to look mature and >< immature
sophisticated. (a)
- a mature and sensible attitude
- Girls are said to mature faster
than boys.
- He has matured a great deal
over the past year.
- The law has been significantly = to adapt sth
modified since that ruling.
- heavily/highly modified
- Job-sharing is still a novel
concept and it will take a while for
employers to get used to it.
- Keeping a sheep in the garden is a
novel way of keeping the grass
short!
- He persisted in his refusal to
admit responsibility.
- She persisted with her studies in
spite of financial problems.
The trade network persisted in spite
of political chaos.
- the potential of the Internet to
create jobs
- an industry that has the potential
for growth
- to achieve/ fulfil/ reach/ realize = promise (n)
your potential
- Training is a way of unlocking
the potential of the workforce.
 to unlock/unleash sb’s potential
= to allow them to succeed as well
as they can)
- Malaysia only showed glimpses
of their true/ full potential in the
final stages of the tournament.
-  We're looking for a trainee with
potential.
Of course we don’t want to alarm
ppl unnecessarily, but they should
be alerted to potential dangers.
-  to progress rapidly in your career = to advance
- My Spanish never really >< to regress
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
make progress (1)
to move forward (2)
to go forward in time (3)
Progress (n):
the process of developing
or improving (1)
movement forwards or
towards a place (2)
24. radical (a) relating to the most basic
/ˈrædɪkl/ and important parts of sth;
complete and detailed
25. refine (v)  to improve sth by making
/rɪˈfaɪn/ small changes to it
progressed beyond the stage of
being able to order drinks at the
bar.
- The line of traffic progressed
slowly through the town.
-  Cases can take months to
progress through the courts.
- As the war progressed, more and = to go on
more countries became involved.
- We started off talking about the
weather and gradually the
conversation progressed to
politics.
- We appraise the work and
evaluate each student’s individual
progress.
 to assess/evaluate/review
somebody’s progress
- Regular tests enable the teacher to
monitor the progress of each
child.
 to follow/monitor/chart
somebody’s progress = to keep
checking it
- The two sides have made
very slow progress in resolving the
dispute.
- Who can halt this man’s
inexorable progress towards yet
another championship?
We watched the ship’s stately
progress out of the docks.
- a radical reform of the tax system = far –
- They are proposing radical reaching
changes to the way the company is >< slight (a)
run.
The theory was further refined by
modern scientists.

26. reform (v)(n) Reform (n) = change - The Prime Minister promised
that is made to a social sweeping reforms of the banking
system, an organization, system.
etc. in order to improve or  far-reaching/ major/ sweeping
correct it reforms
- They wanted to push through
radical reform. ( = to make them
happen)
- Much will depend on how local
managers implement the reforms.
Reform (v) =  to - plans to radically reform the tax
improve a system, an system
organization, a law, etc. - the near impossibility of truly
by making changes to it reforming the system
27. remain (v) to continue to be sth; to be - Many scientists remain
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
/rɪˈmeɪn/ still in the same state or unconvinced by the current
condition (1) evidence.
- to remain unclear/ unchanged/
unanswered/ etc
to still need to be done, - The fact remains that racism is
said or dealt with (2) still a considerable problem.
- There remained a few jobs still to
be finished.
-  It remains to be seen (= it will
only be known later) whether you
are right.
 to remain to do sth
28. revise (v) to change sth because of I can see I will have to revise my
/rɪˈvaɪz/ new info or ideas (1) opinions of his abilities now.
to change sth, such as a - The figure has now been revised
book or an estimate, in from $1 million to $2 million.
order to correct or - Forecasts of economic growth are
improve it (2) being revised downwards.
29. revolution (n) a sudden or major change, - the digital/technological
/ˌrevəˈluːʃn/ esp in ideas or methods revolution
 (1) - There has been a quiet revolution
in the way writing is taught.
a time when ppl change a - The country appears to be on the
ruler or political system brink of revolution.
by using force or violence - It was very difficult to
 (2) encapsulate the story of the
revolution in a single one-hour
documentary.
30. shift (n)(v) Shift (n) = a change in - There has been a dramatic shift in
/ʃɪft/ opinion, mood, policy, public opinion towards peaceful
etc. negotiations.
- a marked shift (=noticeable
change) in attitudes towards women
- Recent years have witnessed a
shift away from fatty foods.
Shift (v) = (of an idea, - The White House hopes to shift
opinion, etc.) to change the media’s attention away from
foreign policy issues.
- Media attention has shifted
recently onto environmental
issues.
31. spoil (v)  to change sth good into - I haven’t seen the film, so don’t = to ruin sth
/spɔɪl/ sth bad, unpleasant, etc. spoil it for me by telling me what
happens.
- You’ll spoil your appetite for
dinner if you have a cake now.
32. status quo (n) the present situation or the - Will the West use its influence to
/ˌsteɪtəs ˈkwəʊ/ ways things usually are maintain the status quo and not
disrupt the flow of oil?
 - to defend/ keep/ maintain/
preserve the status quo
- They wanted a return to the
status quo before the war.
33. steady (v)(a) Steady (a): - Over the last ten years he has - Synonyms:
/ˈstedi/ - developing, growing, produced a steady flow/ stream/ (1)= constant
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
etc. gradually and in an trickle of articles and papers. (1) (2)= regular
even and regular way (1) - Orders for new ships are rising, - Antonym:
-  not changing and not after several years of steady (3) ><
interrupted (2) decline. (1) unsteady (a)
- firmly held in a - a steady job/ work/ income (2)
particular position without - a steady boyfriend/girlfriend (2)
moving or shaking (3) - to have a steady relationship (2)
- Keep the camera steady while
you take a picture. (3)
- It takes a steady hand to perform
surgery. (3)
Steady (v) = to stop - He steadied his rifle on the wall
(yourself/sb/sth from) and fired.
moving, shaking or falling - The plane steadied, and the
passengers relaxed.
34. substitute (n)(v) Substitute (n) = person - The television is a poor
/ˈsʌbstɪtjuːt/ or thing that you use or substitute for human
have instead of the one companionship.
you normally use or have - There is no substitute for a
committed board with a vision of
the future.
Substitute (v) = to use - Computers can’t substitute for
sth or sb instead of human interaction.
another thing or person - You can substitute oil for butter
in this recipe.
35. sustain (v) - to provide enough of The soil in this part of the world is
/səˈsteɪn/ what sb/ sth needs in not rich enough to sustain a large
order to live or exist (1) population.
- to make sth continue for - The economy looks set to sustain = to maintain
some time without its growth into next year. sth
becoming less (2) - She found it difficult to sustain the
children’s interest.
- to experience sth bad (3) - She sustained mutiple injuries in
the accident.
- to sustain damage/an injury/a
defeat
36. switch (v)(n) Switch (v) =  to change - Most of his supporters had
/swɪtʃ/ or make sth change from switched their allegiance/ sides to
one thing to another his rival. (= to start supporting sb
else)
- I decided to switch my focus
from swimming to cycling.
 to switch attention/ focus/
emphasis
Switch (n) = a change - The team’s manager made a
from one thing to another, shrewd tactical switch in defence.
especially when this is - When did the writer make the
sudden and complete switch from fiction to non-fiction?
37. transform (v) to make sb or sth - The movie transformed her = convert (v)
/trænsˈfɔːm/ completely different, almost overnight from an
usually in a way that unknown schoolgirl into a
makes them more megastar.
attractive, easier to use, - the power of art to transform
etc experience
-  He seems to have been
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
miraculously transformed into a
first-class player.
38. trend (n) a general direction in - The underlying/ long-term
/trend/ which a situation is trend of inflation is still upwards
changing or developing - The recession may still be biting,
but video games company Nintendo
continues to buck the trend (= to
resist; oppose).
- I have detected a worrying/
alarming/ disturbing trend of late
(= recently).
- a growing trend towards
globalization in world markets
 a growing/ increasing/ rising
trend
- He succeeded in reversing the
downward trend of the railway’s
fortunes.
39. uniform (a) the same everywhere - uniform rates of pay
/ˈjuːnɪfɔːm/ - Growth has not been uniform
across the country.
40. breakthrough an important development - The agreement was a historic
(n) /ˈbreɪkθruː/ that may lead to an breakthrough in political history.
agreement or achievement - This drug has been heralded as a
big/ major breakthrough in the
fight against breast cancer.
41. broadband (n) a high – speed Internet broadband services/ networks/
/ˈbrɔːdbænd/ connection technology/ transmission
42. click (v) - to make a computer do If you want to open a file, click
/klɪk/ sth by pressing a button twice on the icon for it.
the mouse (1)
-  to suddenly become - In the last act of the play,
clear or understood (2) everything clicks into place.
 to click into place/ position
- As he talked about his schooldays,
it suddenly clicked where I had met
him before.
- to become friendly or - We met at a party and clicked
popular (3) immediately.
- The new daytime soap opera has
yet to show signs that it’s clicking
with the television audience.
-  to make or cause sth to - The door clicked shut behind me.
make a short sharp sound  to click open/ shut = open with a
 (4) short/ hard sound
- He clicked his heels and saluted.
43. complex (a) made of many different - She managed to put over a fairly Synonym:
/ˈkɒmpleks/ things or parts that are complex argument in a brilliantly complicated
connected; difficult to simple way.
understand - a complex problem/ issue/
process/ system
44. consumer electrical equipment, such - a leading manufacturer of
electronics (n) as digital cameras, etc, consumer electronics
/kənˌsjuːmər ɪˌlek which is available for the - The economic outlook is good for
ˈtrɒnɪks/ public to buy most manufacturers of consumer
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45. craft (n)(v) Craft (n) = skill and
/krɑːft/ experience, esp in relation
to making objects; a job
or activity that needs skill
and experience, or sth
produced using skill and
experience
Craft (v) = to make sth
using special skills, esp
with your hands
46. data (n) information or facts
/ˈdeɪtə/
47. download (v)(n) Download (v) = to get
/ˌdaʊnˈləʊd/ data from another
computer, usually using
the internet
Download (n) = a
downloaded computer file
48. file (n) a set of information on a
/faɪl/ computer
49. (games) console a small piece of electronic
(n) equipment that you
/ˈɡeɪmz kɒnsəʊl/ connect to a screen, used
for playing video games
50. manual (a)(n) Manual (a):
/ˈmænjuəl/
- (of work, etc.) involving
using the hands or
physical strength (1)
- operated or controlled
by hand rather than by
machine or using
electricity, etc. (2)
Manual (n) = a book
containing instructions for
doing sth, esp for
operating a machine
51. network (n)(v) Network (n) = a number
/ˈnetwɜːk/ of computers and other
devices that are connected
together so that
equipment and info can be
shared
Network (v):
electronics.
- the craft of furniture making/
sewing/ glassblowing
- political/ literary craft
- rural/ ancient/ traditional crafts
- a craft fair/ centre/ workshop
- All the furniture is crafted from = fashion (v)
natural materials.
- a carefully crafted speech
- data on pesticide use
- Our data indicates that weather
patterns are likely to get more
extreme.
- historical/ financial/ scientific/
statistical/ empirical/
experimental/ / clinical/ etc data
- There is an enormous body of
data in support of the theory.
(= a large amount of data)
- If you download pictures from
the internet, check the terms of use.
- About 100,000 users illegally
downloaded episodes of the show.
A staggering 99.8 %
of digital music downloads are to
mobile handsets.
to create/ delete/ download/ upload
a file
They're bringing out a new games
console this Christmas.
- People in manual occupations = blue-collar
have a lower life expectancy. (1)
- manual jobs/ labour/ work/
workers/ skills/etc (1)
- I can’t drive a manual car >< automatic
because of my disability, but I’m
fine with an automatic.
- a computer/car/instruction manual
- The computer comes with a
comprehensive owner’s manual.
- Administrators can secure the
network by segmenting it into
zones.
- across/ over/ via a network
- Our computer system consists of
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
- to connect a number of
computers and other
devices together so that
equipment and info can be
shared (1)
- to meet ppl who might
be useful to know, esp in
your job (2)
52. nuclear (a) - using, producing or
/ˈnjuːkliə(r)/ resulting from nuclear
energy (1)
-  connected with
weapons that use nuclear
energy (2)
53. primitive (a) - very simple and old-
/ˈprɪmətɪv/ fashioned, esp when sth is
also not convenient and
comfortable (1)
- belonging to a very
simple society with no
industry, etc. (2)
54. resource (n)(v) Resource (n) = sth you
/rɪˈsɔːs/ can use to help you to
achieve sth, esp in your
work or study
Resource (v) = to
provide sth with the
money or equipment that
is needed
55. technique (n) a method of doing sth
/tekˈniːk/ using a special skill that
you have developed
I. PHRASAL VERBS
To back sth up - to make a copy of info
on your computer
To back sb/sth up - to give support to sb by
 backup (n) telling other ppl that you
agree with them
To change sth to move things or ppl into
(a)round different positions
To change into sth to change, or to make
|| sb/sth, into sth different
change sb/sth into
sth
To change into sth to put on different clothes
To change out of sth to take off the clothes you
are wearing and put on
different ones
about 20 personal computers
networked to a powerful file-
server.
 (1)
- I don’t really enjoy these
conferences, but they’re a good
opportunity to network. (2)
China and India only produce a
very small percentage of their
electricity from nuclear facilities.
- The opponents are campaigning >< anti-
for nuclear disarmament. nuclear;
- the country’s nuclear capability  conventional
(= the fact that it has nuclear
weapons)
- Early settlers had to cope with
very primitive living conditions.
- The methods of communication
used during the war were primitive
by today's standards.
- Primitive races colonized these = crude
islands 2,000 years ago. >< advanced;
- a primitive nomadic tribe modern
The photographs will provide an
invaluable visual resource for
students, artists and scholars.
The school must be properly
resourced with musical
instruments and audio equipment.
- to use/ employ/ apply a technique
- to devise/ develop/ work out a
technique
-  Teachers learn various
techniques for dealing with
problem students.
It's a good idea to back up your
files onto a memory stick.
There’s no evidence to back up his
accusations.
When we’d changed the furniture
around, the room looked bigger.
- The handsome prince was
changed into a frog.
- The castle has changed into a
hotel.
We quickly changed into our
swimsuits.
I must change out of these wet
clothes before I get a chill.
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
To do away with sth to get rid of sth
To do sth up to repair and decorate a
house, etc.
to fasten a coat, skirt, etc.
To fade away to disappear slowly (1)
(of a person) to become
very weak or ill and die
 (2)
To key sth in; to key To put information into a
sth into sth computer, using a
keyboard
To make sb/sth into to change sb/sth into sth
sth
To mix sth up (with To change the order or
sth) arrangement of things in a
confused or untidy way
To mix sb/sth up to think wrongly that
(with sb/sth) sb/sth is sb/sth else
To switch (sth) on/ to start/ stop a machine/
off light/etc working
To take sth apart to separate an object into
pieces
to search a place very
thoroughly
To take sb/sth apart to defeat sb easily in a
game or competition
to criticize sb/sth severely
To test sth out (on To try an idea, a machine,
sb/sth) a product, etc. to see if it
works well or if ppl like it
To turn (sb/sth) To become or make sb/sth
(from sth) into sth become sth
To use sth up to use all of a supply of
sth
To wear (sth) out to become, or make sth
become, thin or no longer
able to be used, usually
because it has been used
too much
Ppl thought that the use of robots = to abolish
would do away with boring low- sth
paid factory jobs.
- The apartment was done up in = to fix sth up
Viennese style.
- They did up an old cottage in the
Scottish Highlands.
Do your shoes/ laces up before >< to undo
you trip over. sth
The voices became louder and (1)
closer and then faded away again.
In the last weeks of her life she (2)
simply faded away.
All the information has been keyed = to enter sth
into the computer. (into sth)
- Their story is being made into a = to turn
movie. sb/sth into sth
- You’re trying to make her into
sth she isn’t.
Your jigsaw puzzles and games are = to muddle
all mixed up together in that box. sth up (with
sth)
I must have got the times mixed = to confuse
up. A with B
- We only switched on halfway = to turn (sth)
through the programme. on/ off
- The electricity has been switched
off.
- She took the clock apart and = to
couldn’t put it back together. dismantle
sth >< to put
sth together
- The police took the room apart,
looking for evidence.
He took the American apart in the
third set.
Her second novel was taken apart
by the critics.
- When you buy a bed, test it out in = to try sb/sth
the shop. out (on
- Let me test this idea out on you. sb/sth)
- He claimed that his disturbed
childhood had turned him into a
criminal.
- Rain in the morning will turn into
snow during the afternoon.
This program will use up a lot of
memory on the hard disk.
- Moving parts in engines wear out
much more quickly than stationary
parts.
- Her patience finally wore out.
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
To wear yourself/ sb to make sb/ yourself It’s no good wearing yourself out
out extremely tired by working so late
II. PHRASES, PATTERNS AND COLLOCATIONS
1. ACCESS (n) - the opportunity or right - He was finally granted access to
/ˈækses/ to use sth or to see sb/sth the medical records.
 (1) - Hackers had/ gained complete
access to the company files.
- to provide/allow access to sth/sb
- high-speed internet access
-  a way of entering or - Disabled visitors are welcome;
reaching a place (2) there is good wheelchair access to
most facilities.
- The police gained access through
a broken window.
- The doors are extra-wide for ease
of access.
2. BREAK (v)(n) /breɪk/
a) break (v) to interrupt something so - I’m trying to get him to break the
that it ends suddenly habit of switching on the TV when
he comes home at night.
- The phone rang and broke my
train of thought.
- We need to break the cycle of
poverty and crime in the inner
cities.
b) to break with sth to end a connection with to break with tradition/old
sth habits/the past
c) break (n) a short period of time - I’ll go shopping during my lunch
when you stop what you break.
are doing and rest, eat,  a luch/ tea/ coffee break
etc. - I’m sorry, I can’t do any more - I
need a break.
- We’ll have a short break for
lunch, then start again at two
o'clock.
- Let’s take a ten-minute break.
- The weekend was a welcome
break from the pressures of
work.
3. CHANGE (n)(v) /tʃeɪndʒ/
a) change (v) to become different, or to - He changed from being a nice lad = switch (v)
make sth become to being rude and unhelpful.
different (1) - Caracas changed from a small
town into a busy city.
- With a wave of her magic wand,
she changed the frog into a
handsome prince.
to put or use sth new or - We changed the car for a bigger = to replace
different in place of sth one.
else (2) - Piper awkwardly tried to change
the subject (= talk abt sth else).
b) to change your/ to change a decision or an Nothing will make me change my
sb’s mind opinion mind.
c) to change for the to start being better/ - As the afternoon wore on the
better/ worse worse weather changed for the worse.
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
d) to change your to start to live or behave
ways in a different way from
before
e) to chang/ swap (usually used in negative
places (with sb) sentences) to be in sb
else’s situation
f) change (n) the act or result of sth
becoming different
4. CLOCK (n) /klɒk/
a) to set a clock to make it say the right
time
b) (a)round the all day and all night
clock without stopping
c) to watch the to be careful not to work
clock longer than the required
time; to think more abt
when your work will
finish than abt the work
itself
d) against the clock if you do sth against the
clock, you do it fast in
order to finish before a
particular time
e) to beat the clock to finish a task, race, etc.
before a particular time
f) clockwise (adv) moving around in the
(a) same direction as the
/ˈklɒkwaɪz/ hands of a clock
g) clockwork (n) parts of a machine
/ˈklɒkwɜːk/ consisting of wheels
and springs
h) clockwork in an extremely exact way
precision/ accuracy
- Her attitude has definitely
changed for the better since she
started this new job.
If he wants to carry on living here,
he’s going to have to change his
ways and learn to be a bit less
messy.
She may be rich, but I wouldn’t
want to change places with her.
- I’ve made a few minor changes
to your speech. I hope you think
I’ve improved it
- Medicine has undergone huge
changes in the past 50 years due to
the discovery of DNA.
- The past decade has seen
dramatic changes in global
poverty.
 to see/ notice/ observe a change
- There could never be a better time
to act than now. The organisation is
ripe for change. = to be ready or
suitable for
- The war brought about radical
social change. = to cause change
- Treatment is aimed at effecting (=
bringing about) a change in the
child’s negative behaviour.
Don’t forget to set your clocks to
summer time.
The company worked around the
clock to repair the problem.
employees who are always
watching the clock
- Everyone is racing against the
clock to get things ready in time.
- to work against the clock
The player beat the clock and set a
new record.
In our picture, clockwise from top
left, are James Brown, Helen
Taylor and Holly Jones.
clockwork toys (= toys that you
wind up with a key)
The meal was served with
clockwork precision, and at the
appointed time de Gaulle proposed
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
i) to go/ run like to happen according to
clockwork plan; to happen without
difficulties or problems
5. DATE (n)(v) /deɪt/
a) to date from sth || to have existed since a
to date back (to…) particular time
b) to date until now
c) date (n) - a particular day of the
month, sometimes in a
particular year, given in
numbers and words (1)
- a time in the past or
future that is not a
particular day (2)
- an occasion when you
go out with sb that you
like in a romantic way (3)
d) up to date (a) - modern; fashionable (1)
- having or including the
most recent information
 (2)
6. DEMAND (n)(v) /dɪˈmɑːnd/
a) demand (v) - to make a very strong
request for sth (1)
- to need sth in order to be
successful at sth (2)
b) demand (n) - a very strong request for
sth; sth that sb needs (1)
a toast to his visitor.
The concert went like clockwork.
- This map dates from the 14th
century.
- Our friendship dates back to the
late 70s.
To date, we have received over 200
replies.
- The Danish government has set a
date for a referendum on the
matter.
- We need to fix a date for the next
meeting.
- They feared further repercussions
at a later date because their
participation in the boycott would
almost certainly go into their files.
- The work will be carried out at a
future date.
Elaine arranged for me to go on a
blind date with a guy from her
office.
 to go on/ have/ make a date
(with sb)
- We work hard to keep our >< out of date
database up to date.
 to keep/ bring sth up to date
- This technology is bang up to
date (= completely modern).
- Jackie usually brings me up to
date with all the latest gossip.
- up to date equipment/ facilities/
technology/ etc
- He has always demanded the
highest standards of behaviour
from his children.
- They demanded that the military
government (should) free all
political prisoners.
- We demand a lot of our teachers.
- It’s a desperate situation
demanding a desperate remedy.
- He seems to lack many of the
qualities demanded of a successful
politician.
- The animal rights ppl have
renewed (= repeated) their
demands for the abolition of all
forms of hunting.
- Our firm is constantly striving to
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
- a need for sth to be sold
or supplied (2)
c) in demand wanted by a lot of ppl
d) on demand done or happening
whenever sb asks
7. ENERGY (n) - the strength, effort and
/ˈenədʒi/ enthusiasm required for
physical or mental
activity, work, etc. (1)
- a source of power, such
as fuel, used for driving
machines, providing heat,
etc. (2)
8. FORM (n)(v) /fɔːm/
a) form (v) to begin to exist or to
make sth begin to exist
b) form (n) - the particular way sth is,
seems, looks or is
presented (1)
satisfy customers’ demands.
 to meet/ satisfy a demand
- Demands have been made for the
immediate distribution of food to
the refugees.
- We are struggling to satisfy the
demand for the product.
- The management had no intention
of meeting union demands.
- declining/ falling/ slowing
demand >< increased/ increasing/
rising/ growing demand
- The dollar rose as buying of U.S
securities bolstered demand for
the currency.
 to bolster/ boost/ fuel demand
She is in constant demand to
make public appearances and give
interviews.
Campaigners insist that abortion
should be available on demand.
- I didn’t even have the energy to
get out of bed.
- She lacked the energy to
continue.
- Prisoners are encouraged to
channel their energy into
exercise.
- Try to put more energy into your
game.
 to put/ throw/ channel your
energy into sth
- The exploration for new sources
of energy is vital for the future of
out planet.
- The problem with nuclear energy
is dealing with the waste.
- The country could face an energy
crisis if demand continues to rise.
- 65% of the country’s energy
needs are met by imported oil.
- I formed the impression that she
didn’t really want to come.
-  to form a relationship/ bond/
partnership with sb/sth
- I formed the view that the only
option was to cancel the project.
- In the story the god assumes the
form of an eagle.
- A typical programme takes the
form of a series of workshops.
- People are bombarded with
information in the form of TV
advertising.
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
-  an official document - Please fill in/ out the form with
containing questions and black ink.
spaces for answers (2) - an application/ entry/ order form
- how fit and healthy sb - The goalkeeper is in bad form
is; the state of being fit tonight. I think she is still
and healthy (3) recovering from that broken ankle.
- That is our strength and our
forwards are in good form at the
moment.
9. GOOD (a)(n) /ɡʊd/
a) good (a) - having a useful or It’s good for old ppl to stay active
helpful effect on sb/sth (1) if they can.

- willing to help; kind to - It was very good of you to come.

other people (2) - I had to take a week off work but
my colleagues were very good
about it.
- used to emphasize the - The new law met with a good
large number, amount, or deal of opposition at the local
level of sth (3) level.
- Not all of his movies have been
successful – there were a good few
(= several) failures in the early
years.
- Driving through the deserted town
we saw a good many (= a lot of)
burned – out houses.
b) to be no good morally bad I’d keep away from him if I were
you – he’s no good.
c) to be no good to not be useful; to have - It’s no good just bleating on
(Ving/ to sb) || to no useful effect about (= complaining in an
not be much/ any annoying way) the rising tide of
good crime to get money out of the
government.
- The land here isn’t any good for
agricultural crops.
d) good (n) sth that helps sb/sth I know you don’t want to go into
hospital, but it’s for your own
good.
10. KNOW (v) /nəʊ/
a) know (v):  to have info in your mind - I need to know more about the
- to know about sth as a result of experience job before I decide whether to
- to know sb/ sth to or because you have apply for it.
be/ do sth learned or bseen told it - The authorities know him to be a
cocain dealer.

b) to know better to be sensible enough not He knows better than to judge by

to do sth appearances.
c) to let sb know to tell sb about sth Please let me know if there's
anything I can do to help.
d) to get/ come to To spend time with sb or - The first couple of meetings are
know sth so that you gradually for the doctor and patient to get to
learn more abt him, her, know each other.
or it - I’ll need a few weeks to get to
know the system.
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
e) in the know having more info about
sth than most ppl
f) know-how (n) knowledge of how to do
sth and experience in
doing it
11. LEAD (n)(v) /liːd/
a) lead (v) - to go with or in front of
a person or an animal to
show the way or to make
them go in the right
direction (1)
- to be the best at sth; to
be in first place (2)
- to be the reason why sb
does or thinks sth (3)
- to go in a particular
direction or to a particular
place (4)
b) lead (n) - the position ahead of
everyone else in a race or
competition (1)
- the amount or distance
that sb/ sth is in front of
sb/sth else (2)
- an example or action for
ppl to copy (3)
12. LINK (n)(v) /lɪŋk/
a) link (n) - connection between two
or more people or things
 (1)
- Somebody in the know told me
he's going to resign.
- This resort is considered by those
who are in the know to have the
best downhill skiing in Europe.
- those who have the know-how
to exploit the technology to the
fullest
- to acquire a little know-how about
the job
- He led us out into the grounds. = to guide
- The receptionist led the way to the
boardroom.
- US companies lead the world in
biotechnology.
- The Swedes have led the way in
data protection.
- The seductions of life in a warm
climate have led many Britons to
live abroad, especially in Spain.
- Our research led us to the
conclusion that the present system
is unfair.
- The track led us through a wood.
- The riverside path leads visitors
to a small chapel.
- This trail leads down to the lake,
while the other one leads up to the
peak.
- He has gone into the lead.
-  The Democrats now appear to be
in the lead.
- She took the lead in the second
lap.
- He managed to hold a lead of two = advantage
seconds over his closest rival.
- to extend/ stretch/ double/
increase your lead
- If one bank raises interest rates,
all the others will follow their lead.
- If we take the lead in this (= start
to act), others may follow.
- Studies haven’t proven a link
between sugar and hyperactivity.
 to find/ prove/ establish a link
between
- This provided a key conceptual
link with earlier theories.
- There is no link to an increase in
cases of the disease.
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
- a connection between
documents on the Internet
(2)
b) link (v) if sth links two things,
facts or situations, or
they are linked, they are
connected in some way
13. PLACE (n) /pleɪs/
a) to take the place to replace sb/sth
of sb/ sth || to take
sb’s/ sth’s place
b) to put sth in(to) to exist and capable of
place being used
c) in place of sb/sth instead of sb/ sth
|| in sb’s/ sth’s
place
d) out of place not in the correct place (1)
not suitable for a
particular situation (2)
e) place of work Place (n) = a building or
an area of land used for a
particular purpose
f) place (n) a suitable or safe area for
sb to be
14. PROCESS (n) /ˈprəʊses/
a) process (n) a series of things that are
done in order to achieve a
particular result
b) process (v) - to treat raw material,
food, etc. in order to
change it, preserve it, etc.
 (1)
- Click on this link to visit our
online bookstore.
- Follow the links to watch our
exclusive trailer.
- Asbestos – related diseases are
generally linked to sustained
exposure over many years.
-  Unemployment is consistently
linked with a variety of negative
health effects.
- There was no evidence linking the
men to the crime.
- Natural methods of pest control
are now taking the place of
chemicals.
- She couldn't attend the meeting so
her assistant took her place.
We need to put safeguards in place
to prevent this type of accident
occurring again.
- In place of our advertised
programme, we will have live
coverage of the special memorial
service.
- When her manager fell ill, she
was asked to attend the sales
conference in his place.
- The kitchen was spotlessly clean,
with nothing out of place.
- He never seemed to feel out of
place at social functions.
He can usually be contacted at
his place of work.
These streets are no place for a
child to be out alone at night.
- The party has begun the painful
(= difficult) process of rethinking
its policies and strategy.
- They are frustrated with the lack
of progress in the peace process.
- The company is in the process of
moving to new offices.
- Find which food you are allergic
to by a process of elimination.
- mental/cognitive/thought
processes
- The berries are processed into
juice or sauce.
- Two million workers are
employed (= spent time)
processing goods for electronic
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
- to deal officially with a
document, request, etc.
 (2)
15. PURPOSE (n) /ˈpɜːpəs/
a) purpose (n): - the intention, aim or
function of sth; the thing
that sth is supposed to
achieve (1)
- meaning that is
important and valuable to
you (2)
b) on purpose not by accident;
deliberately
c) to be to little/ no with little/no useful effect
purpose or result
d) to all intents and almost completely
purposes = for
practical purposes
16. REALITY (n) /riˈæləti/
a) reality (n) - what actually happens or
is true, not what
is imagined or thought (1)
- a fact (2)
b) reality TV television programmes abt
firms.
- All university applications are
processed through this system.
- to process an application/ claim/
transaction/ etc
- The purpose of conducting a
business is to make money.
-  A meeting was called for the
purpose of appointing a new
treasurer.
- These small village shops serve a
very useful purpose.
- Attending the race was not my
purpose in coming to Indianapolis.
- Encouraged by her example, they
all set to work with a fresh sense
of purpose.
- It’s important to have a sense of
purpose that it underlies human
happiness.
- I know you didn’t delete the =
database on purpose, but please be intentionally
more careful.
The government had spent a lot on
education but to little or no
purpose.
- The two items are, for all intents
and purposes, identical.
- For all practical purposes, the
cleanup of the oil spill is complete.
- She refuses to face reality.
- We were faced with the awful
reality of having nowhere to live.
- In reality (= in fact), violent
crimes are still extremely rare.
- He escaped from reality by
going to the cinema every
afternoon.
- They portrayed her as a sick
woman with only a tenuous grasp
of reality.
- Her childhood ambition became a
reality (= happened in fact) when
she was made a judge.
- The novel describes the harsh
realities of racism and life on the
road.
- This decision reflects the
realities of the political situation.
- The book confronts the harsh
social and political realities of the
world today.
a reality TV star
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
ordinary ppl who are
filmed in real situations,
rather than actors
c) virtual reality images and sounds - Virtual reality uses computers to
(VR) created by a computer that create a simulated three-
/ˌvɜːtʃuəl riˈæləti/ seem almost real to the dimensional world.
user, who can interact - Video game makers were the first
with them by using mainstream users of virtual reality.
sensors
17. TOOL (n) /tuːl/
a) tool (n) - a thing that helps you to - The Internet has been an effective
do your job or to achieve tool for advertising.
sth (1) - A free low – interest credit card
can be a useful budgeting tool.
- a person who is used or The king was merely a tool of the
controlled by another military government.
person or group (2)
b) toolbar (n) a piece of equipment that The package has some neat
/ˈtuːlbɑː(r)/ you use with your hands additional features too, not least of
to make or repair sth which is the customizable toolbar.
c) toolkit (n) a set of tools in a box or I realized I’d left my tool kit at
bag home.
d) tool box (n) a container for keeping In front of her, Lovesey got up and
tools in climbed out of his seat with a
toolbox in his hand.
18. USE (v)(n)
a) use (v): /juːs/ to do sth with a machine, - These lights are used for
- to use sth for a method, an object, etc. illuminating the playing area.
(doing sth) for a particular purpose - They were using animals for
- to use sth to do sth scientific experiments.
- to use sth as sth - Police used tear gas to disperse
the crowds.
- You can't keep using your bad
back as an excuse.
b) use (n) /juːs/ - the act of using Electric vehicles built in 1920 were
something; the state of still in use in the 1950s.
being used (1)
- a purpose for which - The plant has various
something is used; a way medical uses.
in which sth is or can be - This chemical has a wide range of
used (2) industrial uses.
c) to be of (no) use to (not) be useful or - He was charged with having
(to sb) helpful information likely to be of use to
terrorists.
- It's of no practical use to me.
d) it’s/ there’s no used to say that there is no - There is no use (in) arguing
use Ving || what’s point in doing sth because anymore.
the use of (doing it will not be successful or - He says it’s no use having a ban if
sth) have a good result it can’t be enforced.
- What’s the use of decorating the
house if we are going to sell it?
19. WEB (n) /web/
a) web (n) a system for finding infor - I found this survey on the Web.
on the internet, in which - to surf/browse/search the web
documents are connected
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
to other documents
b) website (n) a place on the Internet
/ˈwebsaɪt/ where you can find info
abt sth, esp a particular
organization
c) web page all the information that
you can see in one part of
a website
d) webcam a video camera that
broadcasts what is filming
on a website
e) World Wide Web the system of connected
documents on the
Internet, usually with
pictures, video, and
sound, that can be
searched for info about a
particular subject
20. WHEEL (n) /wiːl/
a) on wheels sth that is on wheels has
wheels under it so that it
can be pulled or pushed
along
b) at/ behind the driving a car
wheel
c) to take the wheel
d) wheel of fortune/ the way in which things
life/ time/ etc change in life, or in which
the same things seem to
happen again after
a period of time
III. IDIOMS
1. a leopard can’t ppl cannot change their
change its spots character, esp if they have
a bad character
2. all mod cons all the things that are fitted
in modern houses to make
life easy and comfortable
3. to break the to be new and different
mould
4. to change your to change your opinion or
tune attitude
5. to have a change If you have a change of
of heart heart, you change your
opinion or the way you
- Responses will be posted (= put)
on the website.
- The government has launched
(= started) a website containing
info on environmental issues.
- There have already been 5000 hits
on our website.
 a hit on a website = an occasion
when someone visits a website
Clients will be offered customised
web pages with details of their
policies and investments.
He directs his business mostly
from home via e-mail and
webcam.
- The cost of establishing a
presence on the World Wide Web
is low.
- Many low – income families do
not have access to the World
Wide Web.
I bought my niece on of those toy
dogs on wheels.
- Never get behind the wheel if
you're too tired.
- The driver must have fallen
asleep at the wheel.
Do you think you could take the
wheel (= drive) for a couple of
hours?
And, as the wheel of fortune
continues on its inexorable cycle,
values are likely to start going up
again soon.
You didn’t really expect her to be
on time, did you? A leopard can’t
change its spots.
The property has many interesting
features and all mod cons.
Their approach to sports teaching
broke the mould.
The question is, will the president
change his tune on taxes?
She was going to sell her house but
had a change of heart at the last
minute.
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
feel abt sth

6. to know sth to be very familiar with As he was a thoroughly

inside out sth professional journalist, he already
knew the media inside out.
7. to reinvent the to waste time creating sth We don’t need to reinvent the
wheel that already exists and wheel, we just need to hire
works well someone who already knows how
to make the system work.
8. to stick to your to refuse to change your Despite harsh criticism, she’s
guns mind abt sth even when sticking to her guns on this issue.
other ppl are trying to
persuade you that you are
wrong
9. the tools of the the skills and equipment - A personal computer and laptop
trade that you need in order to are essential tools of the trade for
do your jobs any journalist.
- The ability to write clearly is
another tool of the trade.

10. to turn over a to change your way of life - I see fatherhood as a chance to
new leaf to become a better, more turn over a new leaf.
responsible person - Apparently he’s turned over a
new leaf and he’s not smoking any
more.
IV. WORD FORMATION
1. ADAPT (v) /əˈdæpt/  adaptation (n)  adaptable (a)  adaptability (n)
a) adapt (v) - to change, or to change - Most of these tools have been = to modify
sth, to suit different specially adapted for use by
conditions or uses (1) disabled people.
- Many software companies have
adapted popular programs to the
new operating system.
- to change your ideas or - The ability to adapt is a definite = to adjust
behaviour to make them asset in this job.
suitable for a new - Some animals have a
situation remarkable ability to adapt
 (2) to changing environments.
b)  adaptation (n) The documentary is about
corruption, crime and human
adaptation to difficult
circumstances.
c)  adaptable (a) - The catfish is adaptable to a
wide range of water conditions.
- A landmark endures because it is
timeless, adaptable to the ever –
changing needs of society.
d)  adaptability Small enterprises generally offer
(n) greater adaptability than larger
firms.
2. ADJUST (v) /əˈdʒʌst/  adjustment (n)  adjustable (a)  readjust (v)
a) adjust (v) - to change sth slightly to As a teacher you have to adjust
make it more suitable for a your methods to suit the needs of
new set of conditions or to slower children.
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
make it work better (1)
- to get used to a new
situation by changing the
way you behave and/or
think (2)
b)  adjustment (n)
c)  adjustable (a)
d)  readjust (v) to change in order to fit a
different situation, or to
repair sth slightly
e) well - adjusted (of a person) able to deal
(a) with ppl, problems and life
in general in a normal,
sensible way
f) maladjusted (a)
3. ALTER (v) /ˈɔːltə(r)/  alteration (n)  unalterable (a)  unaltered (a)  alternate (a)
(v)  alternative (a)
a) alter (v) to become different; to
make sb/sth different
b)  alteration (n)
c)  unalterable
(a)
d) unaltered (a) that has not changed or
been changed
e) alternate (a) - Alternate (a) = If sth
/ɔːlˈtɜːnət/ happens on alternate days,
it happens every second
day
- Alternate (v) = to
happen or to make sth
happen one after the other
repeatedly
- My eyes were still trying to = to adapt
adjust themselves to the strong
sunlight.
- My parents had trouble adjusting
to living in an apartment.
- The software allows the artist to
make detailed adjustments to the
original drawing. (1)
- Once we make the adjustments
for inflation, the fall in interest
rates is quite small. (2)
- She went through a period of
emotional adjustment after her
marriage broke up. (3)
The height of the bicycle seat is
adjustable.
- Former soldiers often struggle to
readjust to life outside the army.
- The clock automatically
readjusts when you enter a new
time zone.
The school aims to produce well ><
-adjusted members of society. maladjusted
(a)
a residential school for disturbed
and maladjusted children
- He has the power to
fundamentally alter the course
of history.
- Closing the factory would
irrevocably alter the character of
the local community for the worse.
- The King’s Arms pub is to
undergo extensive alterations.
- major/ significant/ minor/ slight/
etc alterations
- the unalterable laws of the = immutable;
universe unchangeable
- an unalterable belief (a)
This practice has remained
unaltered for centuries.
The ferry service will initially run
on alternate days, increasing
eventually to daily sailings.
- They believed that the earth’s
climate alternated between
periods of extreme cold and warm.
- Her mood alternated between
happiness and despair.
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
4. ARRANGE (v) /əˈreɪndʒ/  rearrange (v)  (re)arrangement (n)  arranged
a) arrange (v) -  to plan or organize sth in
advance (1)
- to put sth in a particular
order; to make sth neat or
attractive (2)
b)  rearrange - to change the position or
(v) order of things; to change
your position (1)
- to change the time, date or
place of an event (2)
c) 
(re)arrangement
(n)
5. CAPABLE (a) /ˈkeɪpəbl/  capability (n)  incapable (a)  capably (adv)
a) capable (a) - having the ability or
qualities necessary for
doing sth (1)
- having the ability to do
things well (2)
b) >< incapable - not able to do sth (1)
(a)
- not able to control
yourself or your affairs; not
able to do anything well (2)
c)  capability (n) - the ability or qualities
necessary to do sth (1)
- the power or weapons that
a country has for war or for
military action (2)
d)  capably
(adv)
- I've arranged with the
neighbours about feeding the cat
while we are away.
- We met at six, as arranged.
The photos are arranged in
chronological order.
She set about rearranging the
furniture in the living room.
Can we rearrange the meeting = to
for next Tuesday at two? reschedule
- I'll make arrangements for you
to be met at the airport.
- There are special arrangements
for people working overseas.
- She noticed a slight
rearrangement of the room.
- Air traffic delays will force
airlines to shift flight schedules
and make necessary
rearrangements.
- I'm perfectly capable of doing it
myself, thank you.
- A force ten wind is capable of
blowing the roofs off houses.
- I have some lurking doubts about
whether Simon is really capable of
doing this job.
- I’m going away next week, so I’ll Synonyms:
be leaving everything in your - skilled
capable hands. - competent
- a highly capable individual
-The stroke rendered (= made) her
incapable of speech.
- Some analysts express concern
that the new systems will be less
secure and incapable of doing
donkey work like batch
processing.
This type of arrangement remains
valid even if you become mentally
incapable.
These tests are beyond the
capability of an average twelve –
year – old.
- Britain’s nuclear/ military
capability
- The country is nearing (=
approaching) the capability to
produce nuclear weapons.
All of the main supporting actors
play their roles capably.
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
6. CHANGE (n)(v) /tʃeɪndʒ/  exchange (n)(v)  changeover (n)  (un)changing (a) 
(un)changeable (a)  interchangeable (a)
a) exchange (n)(v) Exchange (n): - Four of my cassettes for your
- the act of giving sb/sth
and receiving sth else
from them (1)
- a conversation or an
argument (2)
- an arrangement in which
a student, teacher, etc
visits another school or
university to work or
study (3)
Exchange (v) = to give
sth to sb and at the same
time receive the same type
of thing from them
b) changeover (n) a change from one system,
or method of working to
another
c) changing (a) in a state of becoming
different
d) changeable (a) likely to change, or
changing often
e) interchangeable that can be exchanged, esp
(a) without affecting the way
in which sth works
7. CONTINUE (v) /kənˈtɪnjuː/  discontinue (v)  continuity (n)  continuation (n) 
continual(ly) (a)(adv)  continuous(ly) (a)(adv)
a) continue (v) - to keep happening,
existing, or doing sth, or to
cause sth or sb to do this
(1)
- to start or start sth again
after stopping for a time
(2)
b)  discontinue to stop doing, using or
(v) providing sth, esp sth that
you have been doing,
using or providing
regularly
Madonna CD is a fair exchange.
- I’ve offered to paint the kitchen
in exchange for a week’s
accommodation.
The DJ was fired after a heated
exchange on air with a call-in
listener.
- Our school does an exchange
with a school in France.
- I’m here for one term, on an
exchange with Dr. Fisher.
- Juliet and David exchanged
glances (= they looked at each
other).
- The two men exchanged
blows (= hit each other).
- I shook hands and exchanged a
few words with the manager.
The changeover to the new
taxation system has created a lot of
problems.
- changing attitudes towards
childcare
- He was entranced (= attracted) by
the changing shape of her body
during pregnancy.
- changeable weather >< reliable
- She experienced changeable =
moods and panic attacks. unpredictable
- These two words are almost/
virtually interchangeable.
- The V8 engines are all
interchangeable with each other.
- He was permitted to continue
with his work while in prison.
- The flood of refugees continued
unabated.
- to continue unabated/ apace/
unchecked = continue at the same
high speed or level
- After a brief ceasefire, fighting
continued.
- They had to continue their
journey on foot.
- The company has discontinued
the practice of providing the staff
with free lunches.
- The airline announced that
weekday flights to Kansas City
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
c) continuation (a) an act or the state of
continuing
d) continuity (n) the fact of not stopping or
not changing
e) continual (a) - repeated many times in a
way that is annoying (1)
- continuing without being
interrupted (2)
f) continuous (a) without a pause or
/kənˈtɪnjuəs/ interruption
8. CONVERT (v) /kənˈvɜːt/  conversion (n)  convertible (a)
a) conversion (n) - the act or process of
changing sth from one
form, use or system to
another (1)
- the process or experience
of changing sb's or your
own religion or beliefs (2)
b)  convertible that can be changed to a
(a) different form or use
9. ELECTRIC (a) /ɪˈlektrɪk/ electrify (v)  electrician (n)  electricity (n)
 electrified (a)  electrifying (a)  electrical (a) a
a) electric (a) connected with electricity;
using, produced by or
producing electricity
b) electricity (n) the power that is carried
by wires, cables, etc, and
is used to provide light or
heat, to make machines
work, etc
c) electrical (a) relating to electricity
would be discontinued.
- This year saw a continuation in
the upward trend in sales.
- measures to ensure the
continuation of food supplies
- to ensure/provide/maintain ><
continuity of fuel supplies discontinuity
- We aim to give children a sense
of continuity.
- After twelve or thirteen centuries
of unbroken continuity the
landscape was being changed out
of all recognition.
- They are subjected to physical = constant (a)
attacks and continual racist
taunts.
- She has endured house arrest and
continual harassment by the
police.
- the Japanese business philosophy
of continual improvement
- Her daughter was a continual
source of delight to her.
- a continuous flow of knowledge,
information and understanding
- She was in continuous
employment until the age of sixty-
five.
A local building firm will carry out
the conversion of the farm
buildings into business units.
She began by supporting
monetarist economics, but later
underwent quite a conversion
when she saw how it increased
unemployment.
- convertible currencies (= ones
that can be exchanged for those of
other countries)
- a convertible sofa (= one that
can be used as a bed)
Electrically charged particles
have electric fields around them as
a result of their charge.
- In an emergency, the hospital can
be powered by electricity from a
generator.
- Some metals conduct electricity
(= allow electricity to travel along
or through it) better than others.
- electrical equipment/ goods/
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
d) electrify (v) - to make sth work by
using electricity; to pass
an electrical current
through sth (1)
- to make sb feel very
excited and enthusiastic
about sth (2)
e)  electrifying very exciting
(a)
10. ENDURE (v) /ɪnˈdjʊə(r)/  endurance (n)  (un)endurable (a)  enduring (a)
a) endurance (n) the ability to continue
doing sth painful or
difficult for a long period
of time without giving up
b) endurable (a)
c) enduring (a) lasting for a long time
11. EVOLVE (v) /ɪˈvɒlv/  evolution (n)  evolutionary (a)  evolving (a)
a) evolution (n)  the slow steady
development of sth
b)  evolutionary involving a gradual
(a) process of change and
development
12. FLEXIBLE (a) /ˈfleksəbl/  inflexible (a)  (in)flexibility (n)
a) flexible (a) - able to change to suit
new conditions or
situations (1)
- able to bend easily
without breaking (2)
b) >< inflexible (a) - that cannot be changed
or made more suitable for
a particular situation 
(1)
- (of ppl or organizations)
unwilling to change their
opinions, decisions, etc.,
or the way they do things
(2)
devices
- an electrical fuse/ circuit/ fault
- He had all the fences around his
home electrified.
- The west coast main line has been
electrified.
- She would sit at the piano and
sing, electrifying us all.
- She electrified her audience
with her vivid stories.
- The view of the mountains was
electrifying.
- The dancers gave an electrifying
performance.
- She was pushed beyond her
powers of endurance.
- The party turned out to be more
of an endurance test than a
pleasure.
The workload was barely = bearable
endurable, but the experience was ><
priceless. unendurable
- the enduring appeal of cartoons
- I shall be left with many
enduring memories of the time I
spent in India.
- Neither cultural or social
evolution is any guarantee that we
are moving towards a better
world.
- The social system is undergoing
continuous evolution to adapt to
these rapid changes.
The change has been evolutionary
rather than revolutionary.
- Can you be flexible about when
you take your leave?
- flexible working hours/ practices
a fitness program that keeps joints
flexible and mobile
- an inflexible attitude/routine/ = rigid
system
- The prime minister has adopted
an inflexible position on
immigration.
- He's completely inflexible on the
subject.
- She's a good teacher, but she can
be rather inflexible.
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
c) flexibilty (n) - the ability to change to
suit new conditions or
situations (1)
- the ability to bend easily
without breaking (2)
13. INFLUENCE (n)(v) /ˈɪnfluəns/  influential (a)
a) influential (a) having a lot of influence
on sb/sth
14. MATURE (v)(a) /məˈtʃʊə(r)/  (im)maturity (n)  maturation (n)  immature (a)
a) maturity (n) - the quality of thinking
and behaving in a sensible,
adult manner (1)
- (of a person, a tree, a
bird or an animal) fully
grown and developed (2)
b) maturation (n) the period during which
/ˌmætʃuˈreɪʃn/ sth grows and develops
c) immature (a) - behaving in a way that is
not sensible and is typical
of people who are much
younger (1)
- not fully developed or
grown (2)
15. MODERN (a) /ˈmɒdn/  modernise (v)  modernisation (n)  modernism (n) 
modernity (n)
 modernist (n)
a) modern (a) - of the present time or
recent times (1)
- (of styles in art, music,
fashion, etc.) new and
intended to be different
from traditional styles (2)
- using the latest
technology, designs,
materials, ideas, etc. (3)
b)  modernise (v) to make sth more modern
/ˈmɒdənaɪz/
c)  modernisation
(n)
d) modernity (n) the condition of being
/məˈdɜːnəti/ new and modern
The new system offers a much
greater degree of flexibility in the
way work is organized.
exercises to develop the flexibility
of dancers’ bodies
-  She is one of the most
influential figures in local
politics.
- Although she was not a
professional politician, her views
were influential in shaping
government policy.
- We’re mature enough to >< immature
disagree on this issue but still
respect each other.
- The human brain isn’t fully
mature until about age 25.
- Most girls are sexually mature
by about 14 years of age.
cell maturation
- He forgave his son’s immature
behaviour.
- Stop being so silly and
immature, Chris!
measures to protect immature
whales
- Computers are an essential part Synonym:
of modern life. contemporar-
- The modern era has witnessed y
great change.
- She is one of the great presences
of the modern American cinema.
- modern architecture/ dance/
drama/ jazz
- The school is thoroughly = up to date
modern in its approach.
- Today modern aircraft
technology got me from
Indianoplis to Boston in six hours.
- There has been a lot of opposition = to update
to modernizing working
practices.
- a tastefully modernized old
farmhouse
In 1955 the railways' modernization
programme was drawn up.
- There is a stark (= clear) contrast
between tradition and modernity.
- a conflict between tradition and
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
modernity
16. NEW (a) /njuː/  renew (v)  renewal (n)  newness (n)  renewable (a)  newly
(adv)  anew (adv)
a) renew (v) - to begin sth again after it - She renewed her efforts to = to resume
stopped or was contact her sister.
interrupted (1) - Unions have renewed their calls
for updated safety guidelines.
- The annual dinner is a chance to
renew acquaintance with old
friends.
-  to make sth legally - to renew a licence/ lease/
acceptable for a further subscription/ contract
period of time (2) - I'd like to renew these library
books (= arrange to borrow them
for a further period of time).
- to emphasize sth by - Community leaders have renewed = to repeat;
saying or stating it again calls for a peaceful settlement. reiterate
(3) - to renew an appeal/a request/a
complaint
-  to change sth that is old Our bones normally renew = to replace
or damaged and replace it themselves constantly.
with sth new of the same
kind (4)
b)  renewal (n) -  a situation in which sth - a renewal of interest in
/rɪˈnjuːəl/ begins again after it traditional teaching methods
stopped or was - They fear the renewal of
interrupted (1) hostilities if an agreement is not
reached soon.
- the act of making a - Mark’s contract comes up for
contract, etc. legally (= to be reaching the time when sth
acceptable for a further must be done) renewal at the end
period of time after it has of this year.
finished (2) - to obtain a renewal of the
certificate
- a situation in which sth - proposals for economic
is replaced, improved or renewal and growth
made more successful (3) - urban renewal (= the act of
improving the buildings, etc. in a
particular area)
c) newness (n) the quality of having been - Kids lose their enthusiasm for
recently created or having things when the sense of newness
started to exist recently wears off.
- the relative newness of the
internet
d) renewable (a) - renewable forms of - an industry based on renewable >< non -
energy can be produced as resources renewable
quickly as they are used - Sorghum is a brand new
 (1) (= completely new) cash crop that
can be burned as a fuel and is
therefore a renewable source of
energy.
- (of a contract, ticket, - The work permit is not renewable.
etc.) that can be made - renewable passport/ contract
legally acceptable for a - a renewable lease
further period of time
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
after it has finished (2)
e) renewables (n) /rɪ types of energy that can
ˈnjuːəblz/ be replaced naturally such
as energy produced from
wind or water
e) newly (adv) recently
f) anew (adv) if sb does sth anew, they
/əˈnjuː/ do it again from the
beginning or do it in a
different way
17. PERSIST (v) /pəˈsɪst/ persistence (n)  persistent(ly) (a)(adv)
a) persistence (n) - determination to do sth
even though it is difficult
or other ppl oppose it (1)
- the state of continuing to
exist for a long period of
time (2)
b)  persistent (a) - continuing to do sth,
although this is difficult,
or other ppl warn you not
to do it (1)
- lasting for a long time or
difficult to get rid of (2)
18. PLACE (n)(v) /pleɪs/  replace (v)  placement (n)  replacement (n)  placing (n)
 (ir)replaceable (a)
a) place (n)(v) Place (n): - He knocked the book out of my
- a point in a book,
speech, piece of music,
etc., esp one that sb has
reached at a particular
time (1)
- a position, seat, etc., esp
one that is available for or
being used by a person or
vehicle (2)
- a position in an
organization, system, or
competition (3)
- the role or importance of
sb/ sth in a particular
situation, usually in
relation to others (4)
Place (v):
- We must expand the use of
renewables.
- investment in renewables
Newly discovered documents cast
doubt on the guilt of the two men.
- The committee is going to
examine the whole situation
anew.
- The film tells anew the story of
his rise to fame and power.
- Why can’t I come?’ repeated Will = tenacity
with dogged persistence.
- Her persistence paid off when she
was offered the job of manager.
the persistence of high = tenacious
unemployment in the post-war
years
Persistent offenders (=people who
often break the law) face a prison
sentence.
- There have been persistent = unrelenting
rumours that the principal might ; relentless
take early retirement.
- a stubbornly persistent
unemployment problem
(1)
hand and made me lose my place.
-This is one of the few places in his
work where he mentions his
childhood.
- Save me a place near the front. (2)
- I've set a place for you at the
table.
- He took the place of honour on
his hostess’s right.
- He was offered a place on the (3)
management committee.
- Victory earned them a place in
the final.
- He finally reached the summit of (4)
Everest and secured his place in
history.
- My father believed that people
should know their place (= behave
according to their social position).
- It’s not your place (= your role)
to tell me what to do.
- Most people place too much value (1)
on money.
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
-  used to express the
attitude sb has towards
sth/ sb (1)
-  to put sb/ yourself in a
particular situation (2)
- to find a suitable job,
home, etc. for sb (3)
- to arrange for sth to be
done (4)
b)  replace (v) - to be used instead of
sb/sth else; to do sth
instead of sb/sth else (1)
- to remove sb/sth and put
another person or thing in
their place (2)
- to change sththat is old,
damaged, etc. for a
similar thing that is newer
or better (3)
- to put sth back in the
place where it was before
 (4)
c) placement (n) - the act of finding a place
for sb to live or work (1)
- a job, often as part of a
course of study, where
you get some experience
of a particular kind of
work (2)
d)  replacement -  the act of replacing one
(n) thing with another, esp sth
that is newer or better (1)
- a thing that replaces sth,
esp because the first thing
is old, broken, etc. (2)
- a person who replaces
another person in an
- We have always placed
emphasis on delivering customer
satisfaction.
 to place value/ importance/
emphasis/ reliance/ etc on sth
- to place restrictions/a burden on (2) = to put
somebody
- The government is being placed
under pressure to give financial
help to farmers.
- The agency placed about 2 000 (3)
secretaries last year.
- He was later placed with a foster
family.
- We placed an advertisement for (4)
a cleaner in the local paper.
- to place an order/a bet
- She replaced her husband as the = to take
local doctor. over (from
- Green will replace the injured sth);
Walker in the starting line-up. supersede
- They replaced the permanent
staff with part-timers.
- proposed changes to the
constitution to replace the
current system of government
The club does not have the finances
resources to replace the damaged
equipment.
The librarian replaced the books
correctly on the shelves.
- The centre provides a job
placement service.
- They lived on campus, but this
was just a temporary placement.
- The third year is spent on
placement in selected companies.
- Students are sent out on
placement for training.
- Our old car is badly in need of
replacement.
- Rare instruments are usually
insured for their full replacement
value.
- If your passport is stolen you
should apply for a replacement
immediately.
- We now use LEDs as
replacements for conventional
light bulbs.
- She has agreed to take on the role
of chairman until a permanent
 TOPIC II: CHANGE AND TECHNOLOGY
organization, esp in their replacement is found.
job (3) - She served as a last – minute
replacement for the woman
originally selected.
e) replaceable (a) These workers are poorly skilled
/rɪˈpleɪsəbl/ and easily replaceable.
f) too valuable or special to Inevitably, this will entail losing = precious;
>< irreplaceable (a) be replaced some of the irreplaceable invaluable
character of this unique building.

19. PROCESS (n)(v) /ˈprəʊses/  processor (n)  processing (n)  processed (a)
a) process (n)(v) Process (n): - Coming off the drug was a long (1)
- a series of things that are and painful (= difficult) process
done in order to achieve a for him.
particular result (1) - The company has introduced a
-  a series of things that new process for handling
happen, esp ones that complaints.
result in natural changes  - During the ageing process, the (2)
(2) rum acquires a golden colour.
- a method of doing or - Coal forms by a slow process of
making sth, esp one that is chemical change.
used in industry (3) They have developed a new (3)
process for extracting aluminium
from bauxite.
Process (v): - When food is processed, many of (1)
- to treat raw material, the nutrients are stripped away.
food, etc. in order to - Soy bean oil is found in hundreds
change it, preserve it, etc. of processed foods.
(1) All university applications are (2)
-  to deal officially with a processed through this system.
document, request, etc.
(2) The new network will enable data (3)
- to deal with info using a to be processed more speedily.
computer (3) -  It was a second later when I fully (4)
- to understand the processed what he had said.
meaning of sth that has - Returning soldiers need time to
happened or been said (4) process what they have experienced
in combat.
b)  processor (n) a machine, person or The company is Ireland's largest
company that processes dairy processor.
things
c) processing (n) - the treatment of raw - the food processing industry
material, food, etc. in - a sewage processing plant
order to change it,
preserve it, etc. (1)
- the process of dealing - There was a delay in the
officially with a processing of passport
document, request, etc. applications.
 (2) - errors in the processing of
financial transactions
20. REVOLT (v)(n) /rɪˈvəʊlt/  revolutionise (v)  revolution (n)  revolutionary (a) 
revolting (a)
a) revolt (n)(v) Revolt (n) = a protest - The Russians speedily crushed/ = uprising;
against authority, esp that suppressed/ put down the revolt. rebellion
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of a government, often
involving violence; the
action of protesting
against authority
Revolt (v):
- to take violent action
against the ppl in power
 (1)
- to make sb feel
unpleasantly shocked or
disgusted (2)
b)  revolutionise to completely change the
(v) way that sth is done
c) revolution (n) - an attempt, by a large
number of people, to
change the government of
a country, especially by
violent action (1)
- a great change in
conditions, ways of
working, beliefs, etc. that
affects large numbers of
people (2)
d)  revolutionary Revolutionary (a):
(a)(n) - involving a great or
/ˌrevəˈluːʃənəri/ complete change (1)
-  connected with political
revolution (2)
Revolutionary (n) = a
person who starts or
supports a revolution, esp
a political one
e) revolting (a) extremely unpleasant
= to end it by force
- Opposition groups had called for
a popular revolt against the
president.
 Finally the people revolted (1) = to
against the military dictatorship. rebel; rise
- She was revolted by the smell of (2) = to
stale beer and vomit in the room. disgust;
- It revolts me to know that the nauseate;
world spends so much money on sicken
arms when millions are dying of
hunger.
First, he revolutionized the
securities industry with discount
trading.
- The activists were charged with
formenting (= creating trouble;
making it worse) revolution. = to
incite
- The development of high – yield
varieties of rice produced a
revolution in the country’s
agriculture.
- the digital/technological
revolution
- The new cancer drug is a (1)
revolutionary breakthrough.
- revolutionary advances in
medicine
- a revolutionary leader/ movement (2)
- revolutionary uprisings
Like the French revolutionaries,
his main concern was to unify the
country.
- He’s an absolutely revolting man. = disgusting;
- What a revolting colour! nauseating;
- Picking your nose is a revolting sickening;
habit. repulsive