Word meaning most difficult

50 Difficult Words with Meanings. Really? Is it something that matters in the preparation for competitive exams? Or is it even something you should bother going through? The simple answer is YES. Good vocabulary can take you to places in competitive exams as well as in life. Are you ready to learn new difficult words with meanings? Here is the complete list of 50 difficult words with meanings!

This Blog Includes:
  1. Why Improve Your Vocabulary?
  2. 50 Difficult Words with Meanings and Examples
  3. How to Learn the Unfamiliar Words with Meaning?
  4. 20 Hard Words with Meanings
  5. Difficult English Words to Pronounce
  6. [BONUS] 50 Simple Words with Meaning
  7. Importance of Difficult Words in Competitive Exams
  8. Use of English Vocabulary in GMAT
  9. Use of English Vocabulary in GRE
  10. Best Vocabulary Books 
  11. FAQs

Why Improve Your Vocabulary?

Here are some reasons why you must improve your vocabulary:

  1. Study abroad tests such as GRE, GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, SAT, etc. include vocabulary sections to test your English proficiency. Hence, practising vocabulary daily can help you score well on these tests.
  2. Developing your vocabulary will sharpen your mind.
  3. Knowing the correct word can help you express your thoughts more accurately.
  4. Developing your vocabulary is a great way to improve your communication skills.

Must Read: Daily Used English Words

50 Difficult Words with Meanings and Examples

  1. Abnegation /abnɪˈɡeɪʃ(ə)n/: Renouncing a belief or doctrine
    Example: “I believe in the abnegation of political power”
  2. Aggrandize /əˈɡrandʌɪz/: enhance power, wealth or status
    Example: It was an action intended to aggrandize the Frankish dynasty.
  3. Alacrity /əˈlakrɪti/: Eagerness
    Example: He accepted the invitation with alacrity.
  4. Anachronistic /ənakrəˈnɪstɪk/: misplaced chronologically
    Example: He is rebelling against the anachronistic morality of his parents.
  5. Archetypal /ˌɑːkɪˈtʌɪp(ə)l/: quintessential of a certain kind
    Example: She is the archetypal country doctor.
  6. Ascetic /əˈsɛtɪk/: one who practices self-denial as part of spiritual discipline
    Example: She has adopted an ascetic life of prayer, fasting, and manual labour.
  7. Beguile /bɪˈɡʌɪl/: influence someone in a deceptive way
    Example: He beguiled the voters with his good looks.
  8. Blandishment /ˈblandɪʃm(ə)nt/: intentional flattery for persuasion
    Example: The blandishments of the travel brochure.
  9. Cajole /kəˈdʒəʊl/: persuade by flattery or coaxing
    Example: He hoped to cajole her into selling the house.
  10. Callous (/ˈkaləs/: disregard for others
    Example: Her callous comments about the murder made me shiver.
  11. Camaraderie /kaməˈrɑːd(ə)ri/: a sense of solidarity arising out of familiarity and sociability
    Example: I like the enforced camaraderie of office life.
  12. Circumlocution /ˌsəːkəmləˈkjuːʃ(ə)n/: expressing someone in an indirect way
    Example: His admission came after years of circumlocution.
  13. Clamour/ˈklamə/: proclaim something noisily
    Example: The questions rose to a clamour in the meeting.
  14. Cognizant /ˈkɒ(ɡ)nɪz(ə)nt/: awareness or realization
    Example: Politicians must be cognizant of the political boundaries within which they work.
  15. Construe /kənˈstruː/: interpret or assign meaning
    Example: His words could hardly be construed as an apology.
  16. Convivial /kənˈvɪvɪəl/: enjoyable atmosphere or jovial company
    Example: It is a convivial cocktail party.
  17. Demagogue /ˈdɛməɡɒɡ/: a political leader who uses rhetoric to appeal to prejudices and desires of ordinary citizens
    Example: The minister is a gifted demagogue with particular skill in manipulating the press.
  18. Denigrate /ˈdɛnɪɡreɪt/: belittle someone
    Example: Many doom and gloom merchants denigrate their own country.
  19. Didactic /dɪˈdaktɪk/: instructive with a moral intent
    Example: It is a didactic novel that set out to expose social injustice.
  20. Disparate /ˈdɪsp(ə)rət/: of a distinct kind
    Example: They inhabit disparate worlds of thought.

Time to take a breather! You’re almost there! Let’s quickly finish up our list of 50 difficult words with meanings!

50 Difficult Words with Meanings
  1. Eclectic /ɪˈklɛktɪk/: deriving the best ideas and styles from a diverse range of sources
    Example: My university is offering an eclectic mix of courses.
  2. Egregious /ɪˈɡriːdʒəs/: reprehensible or outrageously bad
    Example: It is an egregious abuse of copyright.
  3. Embezzlement /ɛmˈbɛzlm(ə)nt/: misappropriation of funds
    Example: He has charges of fraud and embezzlement.
  4. Enervate /ˈɛnəveɪt/: lacking in vitality or mentally/ morally drained
    Example: The weather has an enervating heat today.
  5. Ephemeral /ɪˈfɛm(ə)r(ə)l/: lasting for a short duration
    Example: Fads are ephemeral: new ones regularly drive out the old.
  6. Equanimity /ˌɛkwəˈnɪmɪti/: maintaining composure in stressful situations
    Example: He accepted both the good and the bad with equanimity.
  7. Fatuous /ˈfatjʊəs/: devoid of intelligence
    Example: It was a fatuous comment.
  8. Gratuitous /ɡrəˈtjuːɪtəs/: uncalled for or unwarranted
    Example: Gratuitous violence was reported.
  9. Iconoclast /ʌɪˈkɒnəklast/: someone who criticizes or attacks cherished ideas and beliefs
    Example: His son Gegnesius 722 was taken to Constantinople, where he won over to his opinions the iconoclast emperor, Leo the Isaurian. 
  10. Idiosyncratic /ˌɪdɪə(ʊ)sɪŋˈkratɪk/: something peculiar to an individual
    Example: He emerged as one of the great, idiosyncratic talents of the nineties.
  11. Incumbent /ɪnˈkʌmb(ə)nt/: something that is morally binding
    Example: The government realized that it was incumbent on them to act.
  12. Inveterate /ɪnˈvɛt(ə)rət/: habitual
    Example: She is an inveterate gambler.
  13. Libertarian /ˌlɪbəˈtɛːrɪən/: someone who cherishes ideas of free will
    Example: He is studying libertarian philosophy.
  14. Licentious /lʌɪˈsɛnʃəs/: someone who is promiscuous
    Example: The ruler’s tyrannical and licentious behaviour.
  15. Largess /lɑːˈ(d)ʒɛs/: Kindness or Generosity in bestowing gifts or money
    Example: The king can’t bestow these costly jewels with such a largess
  16. Multifarious /ˌmʌltɪˈfɛːrɪəs/: multifaceted or diverse
    Example: The university offers multifarious activities.
  17. Obdurate /ˈɒbdjʊrət/: being stubborn and refusing to change one’s opinion
    Example: I argued this point with him, but he was obdurate.
  18. Ostracism /ˈɒstrəsɪz(ə)m/: excluding a person or certain section from society by majority consent
    Example: “I argued this point with him, but he was obdurate”
  19. Pejorative /pɪˈdʒɒrətɪv/: showing disapproval
    Example: Permissiveness is used almost universally as a pejorative term.
  20. Pertinacious /ˌpəːtɪˈneɪʃəs/: someone who is stubbornly unyielding
    Example: She worked with a pertinacious resistance to interruptions.
  21. Phlegmatic /flɛɡˈmatɪk/: expressing little or no emotion
    Example: He portrays the phlegmatic British character on the show.
  22. Promulgate /ˈprɒm(ə)lɡeɪt/: to broadcast or announce
    Example: These objectives have to be promulgated within the organization.
  23. Quotidian /kwɒˈtɪdɪən/: something that is of daily occurrence
    Example: The car sped noisily off through the quotidian traffic.
  24. Recalcitrant /rɪˈkalsɪtr(ə)nt/: resistant to authority
    Example: A class of recalcitrant fifteen-year-olds raided the store.
  25. Sanctimonious /ˌsaŋ(k)tɪˈməʊnɪəs/: the pretence of being morally pious to exhibit moral superiority
    Example: What happened to all the sanctimonious talk about putting his family first?
  26. Solipsism /ˈsɒlɪpsɪz(ə)m/: the philosophical theory that only the self-existence is known and all that exists
    Example: We cannot avoid the popularity of the solipsism mentality.
  27. Travesty /ˈtravɪsti/: distorting facts or imitation
    Example: The absurdly lenient sentence is a travesty of justice.
  28. Ubiquitous /juːˈbɪkwɪtəs/: omnipresent or existing everywhere
    Example: His ubiquitous influence was felt by the family.
  29. Vicissitude /vɪˈsɪsɪtjuːd/: an unwelcome or unpleasant change in circumstances or fortune
    Example: Her husband’s sharp vicissitudes of fortune.
  30. Vociferous /və(ʊ)ˈsɪf(ə)rəs/: something or someone who is offensively/ conspicuously loud.
    Example: He was a vociferous opponent of the takeover.

Good job! How many of these 50 Difficult Words with Meanings do you remember? No, don’t peep. Be honest. It’s okay even if you remember none of these hard words for now. The task of making yourself familiar with the new difficult words, especially those that we don’t use in our everyday conversations can seem impossible and exhaustive, but fret not for a few simple tricks can help you go a long way. 

Must Read: 50 Difficult Phrases with Meaning

How to Learn the Unfamiliar Words with Meaning?

50 Difficult Words with Meanings

Our mind tends to be more active and learn better when we engage in activities that seem more fun, learning difficult words in English can seem boring but you can make this task more fun and exciting. You and your friends can make placards with difficult words and challenge each other with meanings, the fun activity will keep you engaged and help you keep those difficult words in mind.

If group activities don’t seem like the ideal situation for you, you can make lists of the difficult words and revise them before going to bed, our brain tends to revise the things we learn and observe through the day while we sleep so this might help you learn better.

20 Hard Words with Meanings

Have you memorized 50 difficult words? If yes, we have got another set of hard words that will help you ace competitive exams. Here is the list of hard words in English that you must remember:

  1. Abject /ˈabdʒɛkt/: Experienced or present to the maximum degree
    “The result plunged her into abject misery”
  2. Abscond /əbˈskɒnd,abˈskɒnd/: Leave hurriedly and secretly
    “After her secret was revealed she absconded from the party”
  3. Bereft /bɪˈrɛft/: Deprived of or lacking“
    The house bereft of colours and painting”
  4. Calumny /ˈkaləmni/: The making of false and defamatory statements about someone to damage their reputation
    “He doesn’t seem like a person who would spread a calumny of others”
  5. Capitulate /kəˈpɪtjʊleɪt/: Cease to resist an opponent or an unwelcome demand
    “Our forces were prepared to capitulate enemies”
  6. Umbrage /ˈʌmbrɪdʒ/: Annoyance or offence
    “She took umbrage of his rude comment.”
  7. Emollient /ɪˈmɒlɪənt/: Having the quality of softening or soothing the skin
    “I prefer using an emollient shampoo over others”
  8. Dirge /dəːdʒ/: A lament for the dead, especially one forming part of a funeral rite
    “When Rachel sang a dirge for her father, everyone had teary eyes”
  9. Dispel /dɪˈspɛl/: make doubt disappear
    “The calmness of the morning dispel Ross’s disappointment”
  10. Epistolary /ɪˈpɪst(ə)ˌləri/: In the form of letters
    “My grandparent’s college times epistolary collection is very interesting.”
  11. Epistolary /ɪˈpɪst(ə)ˌləri/: In the form of letters or documents
    Example: The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a perfect example of Epistolary.
  12. Exacerbate /ɪɡˈzasəbeɪt,ɛkˈsasəbeɪt/: To make a situation, a bad feeling or a problem worse
    Example: According to a survey stress can cause or exacerbate health conditions the humans.
  13. Forbearance /fɔːˈbɛːr(ə)ns/: Self-control, Patience, Tolerance
    Example: Without forbearance, Ray wouldn’t have cleared his house loan.
  14. Gourmand /ˈɡʊəmənd,ˈɡɔːmənd/: A person who likes and enjoys eating food
    Example: If you are a dessert gourmand, then you must try Kentucky Chocolate Pie.
  15. Heterogeneous /ˌhɛt(ə)rə(ʊ)ˈdʒiːnɪəs/: Diverse in content or character
    Example: I gave him heterogeneous ideas for his master’s thesis topics.
  16. Impecunious /ˌɪmpɪˈkjuːnɪəs/: Having less money or no money at all
    Example: After buying a new house, Sam was so impecunious that he couldn’t even afford Christmas cards.
  17. Pellucid /pɪˈl(j)uːsɪd,pɛˈl(j)uːsɪd/: Clear, Easy to understand, comprehensible
    Example: His pellucid explanation of why he wants to leave the job made higher authorities release him without any conditions.
  18. Philanthropic /.fɪlənˈθrɒpɪk/: An organisation or person promoting the welfare of others
    Example: Because of the financial aid received by the philanthropic bodies, Kate managed to complete her higher education.
  19. Protean /ˈprəʊtɪən,prəʊˈtiːən/: Frequently changing, Trending, Versatile
    Example: Vicky Kaushal is a protean actor who is capable of performing any kind of role.
  20. Spurious /ˈspjʊərɪəs/: Illegitimate, False
    Example: They made spurious claims of accidents just to get the insurance funds.

Difficult English Words to Pronounce

Want to know the hardest word? Here are the most difficult words to pronounce in English:

  1. Otorhinolaryngologist: oh-toh-RYE-noh-LAR-ən-GOL-ə-jee
  2. Anemone: uh·neh·muh·nee
  3. Anathema: uh·na·thuh·muh
  4. Worcestershire: vu·stuh·shuh
  5. Balmoral: bal·maw·ruhl
  6. Antidisestablishmentarianism: an·tee·dis·uh·sta·bluhsh·muhnt·euh·ree·uhn·i·zm
  7. Asterisk: a·stuh·ruhsk
  8. Brewery: broo·uh·ree
  9. Defibrillator: duh·fi·bruh·lei·tuh
  10. February: feh·bruh·ree
  11. Rural: roo·ruhl
  12. Floccinaucinihilipilification: Flok-si-no-si-ny-hil-i-pil-i-fi-kay-shuhn
  13. Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia: Hi-poh-po-toh-mon-stroh-ses-kwee-peh-dah-leejoh-foh-beeja
  14. Colonel: kuh·nuhl
  15. Choir: kvai·uh
  16. Chores: chawz
  17. Isthmus: is·muhs
  18. Library: lai·bruh·ree
  19. Strait: streit
  20. Gibraltar: ji·braal·tuh
Source: The Urban Fight

[BONUS] 50 Simple Words with Meaning

Here is a collection of simple words with meanings that are commonly used in everyday life, some of which are as follows:

  1. Back: The rear surface of the human body from the shoulders to the hips.
  2. Base: The lowest part or edge of something, especially the part on which it rests or is supported.
  3. Behaviour: How one acts or conducts oneself, especially towards others.
  4. Belief: An acceptance that something exists or is true, especially one without proof.
  5. Birth: The emergence of a baby or other young from the body of its mother; the start of life as a physically separate being.
  6. Answer: A thing that is said, written, or done as a reaction to a question, statement, or situation.
  7. Approval: The belief that someone or something is good or acceptable.
  8. Bread: Food made of flour, water, and yeast mixture and baked.
  9. Breath: An inhalation or exhalation of air from the lungs. 
  10. Brother: A man or boy concerning other sons and daughters of his parents. 
  11. Building: It is a structure with a roof and walls, such as a house or factory. 
  12. Burn: (Of a fire) produces flames and heat while consuming a material such as coal or wood.
  13. Business: It refers to a person’s regular occupation, profession, or trade.
  14. Butter: It is a pale yellow edible fatty substance made by churning cream and used as a spread or in cooking. 
  15. Current: Belonging to the present time; happening or being used or done now.
  16. Damage: Physical harm that impairs the value, usefulness, or normal function of something. 
  17. Danger: The possibility of suffering harm or injury. 
  18. Daughter: A girl or woman concerning either or both of her parents. 
  19. Day: Each of the twenty-four-hour periods, reckoned from one midnight to the next, into which a week, month, or year is divided, and corresponding to a rotation of the earth on its axis.
  20. Death: The action or fact of dying or being killed; the end of the life of a person or organism.
  21. Decision: A conclusion or resolution reached after consideration.
  22. Detail: An individual fact or item
  23. Development: The process of developing or being developed.
  24. Direction: A course along which someone or something moves.
  25. Comparison: A consideration or estimate of the similarities or dissimilarities between two things or people. 
  26. Competition: The activity or condition of striving to gain or win something by defeating or establishing superiority over others.
  27. Connection: A relationship in which a person or thing is linked or associated with something else.  
  28. Cook: To prepare (food, a dish, or a meal) by mixing, combining, and heating the ingredients.
  29. Country: A nation with its government, occupying a particular territory.
  30. Cover: To put something on top of or in front of (something), especially to protect or conceal it. 
  31. Credit: A customer can obtain goods or services before payment, based on the trust that payment will be made in the future.
  32. Cry: To shed tears, typically as an expression of distress, pain, or sorrow.
  33. Care: The provision of what is necessary for the health, welfare, maintenance, and protection of someone or something. 
  34. Cause: A person or thing that gives rise to an action, phenomenon, or condition. 
  35. Chance: It is the probability of something desirable happening. 
  36. Change: Make (someone or something) different; alter or modify. 
  37. Cloth: A woven or felted fabric made from wool, cotton, or a similar fibre. 
  38. Colour: The property possessed by an object of producing different sensations on the eye as a result of the way it reflects or emits light. 
  39. Comfort: A state of physical ease and freedom from pain or constraint. 
  40. Company: A commercial business. 
  41. Art: The expression or application of human creative skill and imagination, typically in a visual form such as painting or sculpture, producing works to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional power.
  42. Attack: Take aggressive military action against (a place or enemy forces) with weapons or armed force.
  43. Attention: When a notice is taken of someone or something; the regarding of someone or something as interesting or important. 
  44. Blood: The red liquid that circulates in the arteries and veins of humans and other vertebrate animals, carrying oxygen and carbon dioxide from the tissues of the body.
  45. Blow: (Of wind) move creating an air current.
  46. Body: The physical structure, including the bones, flesh, and organs, of a person or an animal.
  47. Account: A report or description of an event or experience OR a record or statement of financial expenditure and receipts relating to a particular period or purpose. 
  48. Air: The invisible gaseous substance surrounding the earth, a mixture mainly of oxygen and nitrogen.
  49. Amount: A quantity of something, especially the total of a thing or things in number, size, value, or extent.
  50. Animal: A living organism that feeds on organic matter, typically having specialized sense organs and a nervous system and able to respond rapidly to stimuli.

Importance of Difficult Words in Competitive Exams

Some difficult words in English can be a pest for everyone, whether it be a native speaker or a new learner. There are multiple tough words in the language which are troublesome. It becomes impossible to get a hold of these words, especially for those who are preparing for competitive exams. Students, however, invent new techniques to ease the learning process like using music to learn new words or making flashcards with hard words on one side and meaning on the other. Another fascinating method for memorizing difficult words is to associate a story around it as remembering the story is much easier than retaining the meaning of a tough word. 

We know that for all those who wish to pursue an education abroad or even appear for entrances, you must fare well in the verbal ability section of the test, it can seem like a never-ending task-learning new difficult words and their meanings, so we have curated a list of few difficult words that can give you an edge over others while you prepare for your SAT/ACT or GMAT/GRE as well as IELTS/TOEFL/PTE.

This list is also going to help students with English for competitive exams. Even those who enjoy the English language or wish to improve their vocabulary can go through our list and learn 50 Difficult Words with Meanings.

Must Read: Not Just Mandarin, These are the Most Difficult Languages in the World!

Use of English Vocabulary in GMAT

The Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) mainly comprises 4 sections: Quantitative Reasoning, Verbal Reasoning, Analytical Writing, and Integrated Reasoning. A thorough English vocabulary is a must to score on 3 of these sections of the GMAT syllabus, with only the quantitative section relying more on your mathematical and logical skills. In the various sections of the GMAT exam pattern, students are assessed on their ability to read and understand the written material and apply those to the subsequent questions to conform to standard written English. Moreover, GMAT verbal reasoning questions and critical reasoning problems imperatively evaluate one’s knowledge of English proficiency in terms of reasoning and analytical skills.

Use of English Vocabulary in GRE

The GRE pattern includes 3 sections: Quantitative, Verbal, and Analytical Writing. While studying the GRE syllabus, you must master English grammar along with hundreds of hard words to get a good score on two of these three sections excluding the quantitative reasoning section.

Sample Question Under the Category of Sentence Equivalence: Although it does contain pioneering strategies, one would hardly describe the work as ____________. 

  1. Original
  2. Orthodox
  3. Eccentric
  4. Conventional
  5. Innovative
  6. Trifling

The answer is (1) and (5)

Explanation: We first eliminate the words “Orthodox” and “Conventional” because they are very similar in meaning and do not complete the sentence sensibly. The word “Although” and “Hardly” are crucial signposts here. The work contains some pioneering strategies, but apparently, it is not completely a pioneering work.

Best Vocabulary Books 

Why do you want to limit yourself to only 50 difficult words? Become a master of vocabulary with the help of reference books. Here is a list of some best-selling vocabulary books that can help you to ace the word meaning section of any competitive exam: 

Reference Books Link
1100 Words You Need to Know by Murray Brombert, Melvin Gordon  Click Here, to get your copy!
Word Power Made Easy by Norman Lewis Click Here, to get your copy!
Verbal Advantage: Ten Easy Steps to a Powerful Vocabulary by Charles Harrington Elster  Click Here, to get your copy!
The Vocabulary Builder Workbook by Chris Lele Click Here, to get your copy!
Six Weeks to Words of Power by Wilfred Funk Click Here, to get your copy!
Little Red Book of Word Power by Terry O’Brien  Click Here, to get your copy!
Merriam-Webster’s Vocabulary Builder by  Mary Wood Cornog Click Here, to get your copy!
Instant Word Power by Norman Lewis Click Here, to get your copy!

FAQs

Q1. What are some difficult words?

Ans. Here are the 10 most confusing English words: 

1. Literally
2. Ironic
3. Regardless
4. Colonel
5. Colonel
6. Nonplussed
7. Disinterested
8. Enormity
9. Accretion
10. Commensurate

Q2. Which are the difficult words in English?

Ans. Words that are hard to read, write, spell and understand are considered to be difficult words in English.

Q3. Do all words have vowels?

Ans. No, not all words need to have vowels. Here are some examples to show the same – Mythm, Sync, Rhythm, Hymn, etc.

Q4. Which is the best way to remember difficult words for a longer period?

Ans. Students should always read, write, and learn the words before attempting to put them together in sentences.

We hope this list of 50 Difficult Words with Meanings and these tricks will help you engage with new difficult words and help you in your test preparation. If you wish to seek further guidance on your test preparation and your career, you can check out Leverage Edu today and schedule a free consultation session now. Call us immediately at 1800 57 2000 for a free 30-minute counselling session.

Started preparing for your IELTS, TOEFL, or GRE exams and saw how hard the Vocabulary Section is? Don’t worry! Our list of 50 difficult words with meanings, explanations, and examples has got you covered. Read on!

Table of Contents
  1. Benefits of improving your vocabulary
    1. 1. It will help you tackle aptitude tests
    2. 2. It will make it easier for you to interact with your peers abroad
    3. 3. It will sharpen your mind
    4. 4. It will help you express yourself better
    5. 5. It will help you succeed in your career
  2. Why should I care about your list of 50 difficult words with meaning?
  3. 50 difficult words with meanings and sentences
    1. 40 more to go!
    2. 30 more to go!
    3. 20 more to go!
    4. 10 more to go!
  4. Some bonus words for you
  5. I can’t remember difficult English words with meanings
  6. How to remember difficult English words?
  7. What are some of the most misspelled words?
  8. Some confusing words you should know about 
  9. Difficult words to pronounce in English 
  10. Where can I find more such words?
    1. 1. Word Power by Norman Lewis
    2. 2. The GRE Vocabulary Flashcards on Magoosh
    3. 3. 500 Absolutely Essential Words 
    4. 4. English Vocabulary in Use Series
    5. 5. Oxford Learner’s Pocket Word Skills
  11. How can I improve my vocabulary?
  12. Key takeaways 
  13. FAQs

Have you ever come across a word and deciphered its meaning only to know at the end that it meant something different? If this sounds familiar, this blog on 50 difficult words with meaning is for you. 

You must be wondering about the importance of learning difficult words in English. Well, these words can help you sail through competitive exams, enhance your communication skills, and many such things. Read ahead to learn about more such benefits of learning difficult words.

Benefits of improving your vocabulary

1. It will help you tackle aptitude tests

Popular study abroad tests like GRE, GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, SAT, etc. all have vocabulary sections and are very important when you’re applying to a university or looking for a job after graduation.

2. It will make it easier for you to interact with your peers abroad

You don’t wanna feel lost when they drop one of these words in your conversation. Because you may not believe it, they use these words way more often than we do.

3. It will sharpen your mind

That’s right, learning new words and languages hones the critical side of your brain! Which, as I’ve already said, is super important to nail your aptitude tests.

4. It will help you express yourself better

Have you ever felt like you can’t express yourself through words? The more you expand your vocabulary, the more opportunity you have to express your thoughts and emotions accurately.

5. It will help you succeed in your career

The more effective your communication skills are higher the chance you have of climbing the ladder of success! When you communicate smartly, you can influence and inspire people all around.

Case in point, let’s take a look at these 50 difficult words with meaning and expand our knowledge! But wait-

Why should I care about your list of 50 difficult words with meaning?

Difficult words test prep

The first thing you should do while preparing for your GMAT or GRE is take a mock test. This will give you an idea of what your current aptitude levels are.

So what does that have to do with learning difficult words?

When you take the mock tests, you may find it difficult to understand the questions.

Not because the questions are difficult in themselves, but because they are written using words that are difficult to understand.

What’s more, the options given for the answer are even tougher to comprehend!

For example, here’s a Sentence Completion question from the Verbal Section of GRE–

Question

Colleagues describe Padgett as both forthright and reticent, humble and (i)………….., good-natured and (ii) …………. . And in her behavior as a businesswoman, Padgett herself does little to (iii) …………. these contradictions. She says she is pro-employee but is avowedly anti-union. She calls herself a pro customer but acknowledges that she runs a store with higher profit margins and prices than almost any other grocer.

Answer

(i) – a) diffident b) eccentric c) arrogant

(ii) – a) pricky b) solicitous c) phlegmatic

(iii) – a) dispel b) fulfill c) accentuate

Do you see what I’m trying to say?

GRE has 3 sections, with Verbal being one of the toughest ones.

The GMAT has 4 sections, namely, Verbal Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning, Integrated Reasoning, and Quantitative Reasoning. You need a strong vocabulary to score well in 3 of these sections in the exam.

This is where our list of 50 difficult words with meanings comes in.

50 difficult words with meanings and sentences

Without further ado-

  1. Belie – To give a false representation to; misrepresent
    Example – The smile on his lips belies the pain he’s been feeling 
  2. Arrant – Complete and wholly
    Example – You are an arrant fool
  3. Untoward – Inconvenient
    Example – I find attending lectures on Zoom untoward as it does not make me feel included in the class
  4. Byzantine – Complex and intricate
    Example – You can’t just end a marriage like that, you have to complete the byzantine procedures of filing a divorce case in the courts
  5. Conciliate – To make peace with
    Example – All attempts at conciliation have failed and civil war seems inevitable
  6. Equivocate – To speak vaguely, with the intention of misleading someone
    Example – Politicians often say that they will work on the issue of climate change, but they are just equivocating to get the votes
  7. Truculent – Have a fierce, savage nature
    Example – The truculent attitude of farmers to cheaper imports is inspiring
  8. Diatribe – A verbal attack against a person
    Example – Because Sheila was unhappy with the administration, she launched a lengthy diatribe against the board during lunch.
  9. Quisling – A traitor
    Example – He had the quisling owner of the factory arrested
  10. Artless – without cunning or deceit
    Example – My artless comment was mistaken for rudeness

Difficult words with meaning

Take it slow and learn a few new words each day and quiz yourself.

40 more to go!

  1. Blinkered – To have a limited perspective
    Example – They’ve got a very blinkered view of life
  2. Maudlin – Overly emotional
    Example – You didn’t invite me out here to listen to my maudlin rambling.
  3. Invective – Abusive language
    Example – A woman had hurled racist invective at the family.
  4. Remonstrate – To make objections while pleading
    Example – Whenever I refuse my young daughter anything, she likes to remonstrate by stomping her feet on the floor
  5. Sartorial – Related to fashion
    Example – The wedding party arrived in sartorial splendor.
  6. Sybarite – A person who indulges in luxury
    Example – A Sybarite on an inadequate income, was ever the man of action.
  7. Inundate – Flooded
    Example – Her office was inundated with requests for tickets.
  8. Curmudgeon – A surly person
    Example – Clearly, I only play a curmudgeon in the newspaper. 
  9. Anodyne – Something that soothes or relieves pain
    Example – Morphine is the greatest anodyne we possess, and no drug yet discovered equals it in pain-relieving power. 
  10. Gaffe – A socially awkward act
    Example – He didn’t realize what a gaffe he’d made.

30 more to go!

  1. Vie – Compete for something
    Example – They are both vying for the same managerial position.
  2. Decimation – Killing a large part of the population
    Example – It is likely the category five hurricane will decimate the small beach town.
  3. Garrulous – Talking too much
    Example – He was so garrulous that he could not keep a secret.
  4. Hubris – Overbearing pride
    Example – Her humble attitude was refreshing in a society to be saturated by hubris.
  5. Dovetail – To fit together tightly
    Example – I’m following up on a few things that might dovetail.
  6. Impetuous – Characterized by undue haste and lack of thought
    Example – In the past, impetuous young men would drop out of college and run off to join the army.
  7. Circumlocution – Expressing someone in an indirect way
    Example – His admission came after years of circumlocution.
  8. Surreptitious – Taking pains not to be caught or detected
    Example – He made a surreptitious recording with a concealed hand-held machine. 
  9. Peripatetic – Traveling by foot
    Example – He had a peripatetic career as a salesman.
  10. Magisterial – Someone who exercises unwarranted power
    Example – Their jurisdictions coincide for the most part with the magisterial and fiscal boundaries.

20 more to go!

  1. Asperity – Harsh in manner 
    Example – There was a touch of asperity in his tone.
  2. Decry – Express strong disapproval of 
    Example – He is impatient with those who decry the scheme.
  3. Puerile – Displaying a lack of maturity 
    Example – Since my son is thirty-three years of age, I do not find his puerile behavior amusing.
  4. Incontrovertible – Impossible to deny
    Example – We have incontrovertible evidence of what took place.
  5. Inviolate – Something that must be kept sacred 
    Example – The constitution proclaims that public property shall be inviolate.
  6. Puissant – Powerful
    Example – The young man has a puissant body.
  7. Cosset – Excessive indulgence
    Example – He cosseted her with flowers and champagne.
  8. Eclectic – Deriving the best ideas and styles from a diverse range of sources
    Example – My universities offer an eclectic mix of courses.
  9. Iconoclast – Someone who criticizes or attacks cherished ideas and beliefs
    Example – His son Gegnesius 722 was taken to Constantinople, where he won over to his opinions the iconoclast emperor, Leo the Isaurian. 
  10. Anachronism – Something that is inappropriate for the given time period
    Example – In today’s computer world, a floppy disk is an anachronism

10 more to go!

  1. Enormity – An act of extreme wickedness
    Example – She stared at the fire, shocked by the enormity of what she had done.
  2. Dolorous – Showing sorrow
    Example – Sally stopped. Then she uttered a dolorous phrase that we could all understand. My dog is dead, she said, as tears filled her eyes.
  3. Solicitous – Showing hovering attentiveness
    Example – I appreciated his solicitous inquiry about my health.
  4. Impugn – Attack as false or wrong
    Example – Her motives have been scrutinized and impugned.
  5. Despot – A cruel and oppressive dictator
    Example – The despot claimed to be the chosen instrument of divine providence.
  6. Splenetic – Very irritable
    Example – Next in line for the splenetic outburst of a disaffected supporter: Martin Chuffing Edwards.
  7. Abrogate – To revoke 
    Example – The Supreme Court can abrogate laws deemed unconstitutional.
  8. Inveterate – Habitual
    Example – She is an inveterate gambler.
  9. Officious – Intrusive in a meddling or offensive manner
    Example – ‘I’ll see,’ the nurse said, with an officious toss of her head.
  10. Pillory – Ridicule or expose to public scorn
    Example – The offensive thing is that he has been so widely pilloried for doing so.

Some bonus words for you

1. Abject- without any hope 

Example- He lives in abject poverty. 

2. Candor- Honest

Example- She treated the matter with great candor

3. Cogent- Persuasive

Example- He had a cogent argument to make. 

4. Dearth- Shortage/scarcity

Example- The team has no dearth of good players. 

5. Evanescent- Short-lived

Example- The photographer perfectly captured that evanescent moment.

6. Cognizant-Aware 

Example- He is cognizant of the ongoing issue. 

7. Fatuous- Lack of intelligence 

Example- I was shocked by his fatuous remark. 

8. Mendacious- Lying

Example- Do not give them another mendacious story. It’s time you tell the truth. 

9. Disparate- Distinct 

Example- We are trying to put all disparate ideas to execute this plan. 

10. Ubiquitous– Present everywhere 

Example- He is one of the most ubiquitous media personalities today. 

I can’t remember difficult English words with meanings

How to remember difficult words

There are many tips out there to boost your memory, but what works for you?

I know! I’ve been there. This is why I’m going to share an amazing trick that Memory Athletes use to remember difficult words.

Sure, you’ll find a lot of resources both online and offline (we’re gonna cover that soon). Some of them will tell you to speak out loud and memorize the words every day until the day of your exam. Others will ask you to look at examples and use these words in your everyday life.

But they can only help you remember these words for maybe a week or two.

The method used by Memory Athletes, on the other hand, helped me so much I can remember the meanings of these words even today!

How to remember difficult English words?

We have ten amazing tips that will blow your mind!

  1. Read the word and try to relate it to something you already know.
  2. Break it into two words if that makes things easier for you.
    For example – for the word Inundated – I broke it into 3 words – ‘in’ ‘a’ and ‘date’
  3. Create a mental image of these words in your mind
    I imagined myself being on a date with a guy
  4. Relate this image to the actual meaning of the word!
  5. Have fun while learning. Play word puzzles and quiz yourself when you want to relax.
  6. Be more observant of what you read. Instead of glancing over unknown words, look up the meaning and note them down. 
  7. Learn with a friend. Sometimes learning words can become mundane, so take the help of your friends and build your knowledge. 
  8. Learn a few words at a time and don’t overburden yourself. Learn around 8-10 words a day.
  9. Use these new words in your day-to-day life to retain them better. 
  10. Revise what you have learned a day later and then a week later. 

How? Let’s see-
Inundated means Flooded
So I imagined that the restaurant I was in started to flood!

I know what you’re thinking – it’s crazy.

But it works, doesn’t it? 

Now, you’ll never forget what inundated means.

Try out this trick with the words on this list and have fun while memorizing them. You’re welcome!

What are some of the most misspelled words?

When it comes to acing the English section, only learning the words is not enough. You need to learn to spell them the right way. So, here are some of the most misspelled words that you need to get right!

Misspelling 

Correct spelling 

Acomodate 

Accommodate 

Acheive 

Achieve 

Comitte

Committee

Definately 

Definitely 

Embaras 

Embarrass

Fourty 

Forty 

Irrestable

Irresistible

Appearence

Appearance

Calender 

Calendar

Concience 

Conscience

Some confusing words you should know about 

Besides misspelling certain words, you might get confused with the usage of some words. So, here are some of the most commonly misused words. 

  • Accept and Except 

Accept refers to accepting something, whereas except means to exclude something. 

  • Illicit and Elicit 

Illicit is the other name for being unlawful. On the other hand, elicit means to evoke. 

  • Effect and Affect 

While effect means an outcome, affect means influence. 

  • Their, There, and They’re

While ‘their’ is a possessive word, there means a location, and ‘they’re’ is the contraction of ‘they are.’

Difficult words to pronounce in English 

Now that we have learned more than 50 new words with meaning, it’s time to pronounce some difficult words. Here you go! 

Word

Pronunciation

Accessory 

ak-ses–uh-ree

Balmoral

bal-maw-ruh

Colonel

kur-nl

Epitome

uhpituhmee

Hyperbole

hahy-pur-buh-lee 

Where can I find more such words?

You’ll find online articles giving you multiple suggestions, including books like Six Weeks to Words of Power, Merriam-Webster’s Vocabulary Builder, and 1100 Words You Need to Know.

But instead of being swamped with so many books to read, I suggest you use only these 2 resources-

1. Word Power by Norman Lewis

This book is a delightful read!

In it, you will have to learn only 10 words a day.

But the teaching method (breaking down the word etymology) of the author is so phenomenal that you’ll end up understanding the meanings behind a thousand words by the end of this book.

What’s more, it has several exercises in the middle, that help you improve your grammatical and syntactic skills. This is perfect for those attempting tests like SAT, GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS, etc.

2. The GRE Vocabulary Flashcards on Magoosh

This app has hundreds of flashcards you can read from.

Go through a few flashcards every day, over and over again. Read the meanings, use the trick I gave above to remember these words, and look at the examples.

Then do it all over again. Because when it comes to remembering vocabulary words with meaning, practice will make you perfect!

3. 500 Absolutely Essential Words 

This is for people who want to build a foundation for strong English. The book has over 500 frequently used words with meanings and sample sentences, short reading passages, exercises, etc. This makes it quite helpful for students preparing for English proficiency exams.

4. English Vocabulary in Use Series

This series by Cambridge University Press can be used by students of all levels to improve their vocabulary. If you are preparing for TOEFL or IELTS, grab this series to score well in your exam. Each of these books is designed per various skill levels and gets more technical. It includes the following books-

  • Elementary Vocabulary 
  • Basic Vocabulary in Use
  • Pre-intermediate and Intermediate Vocabulary
  • Upper-Intermediate Vocabulary
  • Advanced Vocabulary

5. Oxford Learner’s Pocket Word Skills

This book by Oxford has 32 modules, each covering various areas of different topics. It has over 180 topics with 3500 keywords and phrases presented in context. It also covers essay writing and spoken English sections. You can also test your knowledge with its ‘Cover and Check’ cards. This book is ideal for students preparing for Cambridge exams and IELTS.

How can I improve my vocabulary?

Here are a few ways you can learn more words and expand your vocabulary – 

  • Build a habit of reading. You must read all kinds of texts – fiction, academic papers, articles, and interviews – to build a solid vocabulary and improve comprehension. 
  • Keep a thesaurus and a dictionary handy, and learn to use the new words in the right context. 
  • If you want to memorize words faster, you can try making flashcards for reference.
  • Write. You can write about any topic that interests you, like laughter, your favorite movie, or a superhero. If you can’t come up with a topic, look for prompts online!
  • Listening to music and watching movies in any language is a great way to build and strengthen your vocabulary.
  • Moreover, making it a habit to converse in that language regularly can help you use the new words you learn effectively.

Key takeaways 

  • Vocabulary is an important aspect of various competitive exams, including IELTS, TOEFL, GMAT, SAT, GRE, etc. It is essential for you to enhance your vocabulary to ace these exams.
  • To begin with, you can go through these difficult words with meanings and try to use these words in your everyday life. 
  • You can also use these words to enhance your English speech to grab people’s attention. 
  • Besides learning more than 50 difficult words with meaning, you can also read books, journals, listen to music, etc., to enhance your vocabulary.
  • So, grab your notebook and prepare well by revising these words!  

There you have it – 50 (well, 60) difficult words with meaning, resources to find more, and tips to remember these oh-so-new words.

If you think we should add something more to our blog about ’50 difficult words with meaning,’ reach out to us.

Or…drop a comment!

Liked this blog? Read next: Top 9 motivational speeches students should listen to

FAQs

Q1. What are the 10 difficult words?

Answer – Here are 10 difficult words you should look at-

  1. Capitulate
  2. Divisive
  3. Extant
  4. Fetter
  5. Hegemony
  6. Inoculate
  7. Linchpin
  8. Mores
  9. Pariah
  10. Reprobate

Q2. What is the hardest word to say?

Answer – Worcestershire is one of the hardest words to get right in English.

Q3. What is the most used word?

Answer – The most used word in English is ‘the.’

Q4. What is the oldest word?

Answer- Some of the words that researchers believe date back 15000 years include-

  • Bark
  • Mother
  • Spit

Q5. Is vocabulary important for GRE?

Answer- Yes, having a strong vocabulary is crucial for you to score well on GRE. The Verbal Reasoning section is all about testing your vocabulary by asking questions on antonyms, analogies, sentence completion, etc. It is also one of the toughest sections of the exam. Therefore,  go through the difficult words with meaning to ace this section. 

Q6. What is contextual vocabulary?

Answer- Contextual vocabulary includes guessing the meaning of words by understanding the sentence without depending on a dictionary. 

Q7. What is the best way to retain difficult words for a longer period of time?

Answer- You can start by reading the words and jotting them down with the meaning. Then, try to use those difficult words in sentences to memorize them. 

Q8. What is a very long word?

Answer- Pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis is one of the longest difficult words in the English dictionary. 

50 Difficult Words New With Meanings: We use many thousands of words in a day. We may not know all the meanings of each word, and we may not even be aware of all the synonyms for the words we use. Vocabulary books are a good tool for learning new vocabulary and finding synonyms; they can also help improve your knowledge base. Complete List of 50 Difficult Words new with Meanings and Examples. write, read, spell and understand are considered to be difficult words in English. Well, this list of 50 Difficult Words with Meanings, is carefully curated and includes some difficult words that you would surely like In our daily life, we use so many English words while interacting with people, but do you even think of how many words and their meaning we miss out? List of 50 Difficult English Words With Meanings. 50 difficult words with meaning| Words for TOEFL, IELTS & more. 50 Hard Words with Meanings – How to Learn the Most Difficult Words in English?. Most of the words we are using while communicating have synonyms, but we never use them. list of 50 Difficult Words with Senses, which is carefully prearranged and contains difficult words which you can surely use while presenting yourself and for your profile on social apps. Using difficult words can be a good grace for the applicants while conversation, difficult words attract people that make the people impress the other person. Here is the list of 50 Difficult new English Words with Meanings:

Here are 50 difficult New words 2023 with their meanings:

  1. Abhor: to hate or detest
  2. Acrimonious: bitter or harsh in tone or temper
  3. Acrophobia: a fear of heights
  4. Acumen: keenness of judgment or insight
  5. Adage: a long-established saying or proverb
  6. Aeon: an extremely long period of time
  7. A fortiori: with even greater reason
  8. Agnostic: a person who believes that the existence of God or gods is unknown or unknowable
  9. Allegory: a story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning
  10. Altruism: unselfish concern for or devotion to the welfare of others
  11. Amalgam: a mixture of two or more things, especially metals
  12. Amorphous: without definite shape or form
  13. Anachronism: something that is out of place in time
  14. Anathema: something that is deeply detested
  15. Apathy: lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern
  16. Apocryphal: of doubtful authenticity
  17. Apoplectic: relating to or affected by apoplexy (a sudden loss of consciousness and control of bodily functions caused by a rupture of a blood vessel in the brain)
  18. Appall: to fill with dismay or horror
  19. Apocryphal: of doubtful authenticity
  20. Arcanum: a secret or mystery
  21. Ascetic: a person who practices severe self-discipline and self-denial, typically for religious reasons
  22. Atrocity: an act of extreme cruelty or barbarity
  23. Augury: the practice of interpreting omens
  24. Auspicious: giving promise of success or good fortune
  25. Avarice: extreme greed for wealth or possessions
  26. Baffle: to confuse or perplex
  27. Banal: lacking in originality or interest
  28. Bard: a poet, traditionally one reciting epics and associated with a particular oral tradition
  29. Bastion: a defensive wall or fortified position
  30. Belligerent: aggressively hostile
  31. Benevolent: characterized by or showing goodwill or kindness
  32. Bewilder: to confuse or perplex utterly
  33. Bilious: bad-tempered or irritable
  34. Blight: a plant disease causing withering and death
  35. Blithe: carefree and happy-go-lucky
  36. Bogus: not genuine or true
  37. Bombast: extravagant language that is intended to impress but is usually ineffective
  38. Brash: offensively confident or self-assertive
  39. Burgeon: to grow or develop rapidly
  40. Callous: insensitive or unfeeling
  41. Cantankerous: bad-tempered and quarrelsome
  42. Captivate: to attract and hold the attention of someone completely
  43. Caricature: a picture, description, or imitation of someone or something that exaggerates certain features in order to create a comic or grotesque effect
  44. Cataclysm: a violent upheaval or disaster
  45. Catty: spiteful or malicious
  46. Celibacy: the state of being unmarried and not having sexual relations
  47. Censure: to express strong disapproval of
  48. Chagrin: a feeling of deep disappointment or vexation
  49. Charlatan: a person falsely claiming to have special knowledge or abilities
  50. Chicanery: trickery or deception

50 New English Words with Meaning and Sentences

How can remembering difficult words help you?

Difficult words can be used in the exams such as IELTS, TOEFL, GRE exams, etc. Understanding words and answering the questions correctly will fetch you outstanding marks in the examinations. Plus, your vocabulary will improve as a result of remembering difficult words.

Difficult english words with meanings and sentences, Here is the list of 50 Difficult new English Words with Meanings. In today’s time it is very important for everyone to know the English language. If you want to have a good command over English then you have to learn the words everyday. Start with 10 words daily and then increase your capacity to learn them. Also make sentences with these words so that you can know the use of these difficult words very well.

50 Words With Difficult-to-Remember Meanings. Most of the words we are using while communicating have synonyms, but we never use them. list of 50 Difficult Words with Senses, which is carefully prearranged and contains difficult words which you can surely use while presenting yourself and for your profile on social apps. Using difficult words can be a good grace for the applicants while conversation, difficult words attract people that make the people impress the other person. Consequently,

Speaking good English is regarded as a skill in today’s society. Even for the eligibility of several competitive exams such as GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS, one must be well- acquainted with good vocabulary. A good comprehensive list with 50 difficult words and their meaning along with examples which will be sufficient to make a good first impression.

Why should you learn difficult words? 

The answer is to prepare for competitive exams, you can interact more easily with interviewers when you go for any kind of interview, it sharpens your mind and it improves your confidence and skills.  If you use advanced and high-level words in your conservation, then the interviewer gets a good impression that you are good at communication skills and you have a vast knowledge of things.

A lot of novels contain difficult words, so an understanding of such words makes it easy to read and understand them. You can also read novels for improving your vocabulary. If you find any difficult words in it, you can search for the meaning on the internet and note them down for future reference.

How to remember difficult words?

With continuous practice, you will be able to memorize these difficult words.

Hard English Words

List of 50 Difficult English Words With Meanings: As a follow up to our article on confusing words, here are ten of the most difficult words in English. Most of the words we are using while interaction have synonyms, but we never use them. Really? Do you think difficult words are helpful when you are preparing for the competitive exams? Or it is something that is bothering you? The answer to this is very simple which is YES. Good vocabulary takes you ahead in competitive exams as well as in your life. Well, here is the list of 50 Difficult Words with Meanings, which is carefully organized and contains difficult words which you can surely use while introducing yourself and for your profile on social apps. Learn Difficult English Words with Meaning and Sentence and Improve Your English Vocabulary .

Personality development can be shown by your talking ways and along with the person behavior. Communication can be the key of various things mainly it can enhance your value if you speak frequent english along with use attractive words into your language.

Using of difficult words can be a good grace for the candidates while conversation, difficult words attract people that make the people impress the other person. Consequently, if you want to attract the other person to impress them with your personality and skills add these difficult words into your conversation.

  1. Adamant- refusing to be persuaded or to change one’s mind
  2. Acumen- the ability to make good judgments and quick decisions
  3. Ascetic -a person practices self-denial as part of spiritual discipline
  4. Anachronistic -antique, misplaced chronologically
  5. Aggrandize– to increase or enhance power, wealth or status
  6. Alacrity -great willingness, eagerness
  7. Abnegation -the action of renouncing a belief or doctrine
  8. Awedde – to overcome anger
  9. Bagel – Something that is transitive
  10. Baffle- totally bewilder
  11. Beseech– ask urgently and fervently to do something
  12. Beguile -charm, influence someone in a deceptive way
  13. Brusque – short and abrupt
  14. Blandishment -a flattering or pleasant statement
  15. Callous -not caring or disregard for others
  16. Camaraderie -a feeling of solidarity arising out of familiarity and sociability
  17. Cajole -to persuade a person to do something by flattery or coaxing
  18. Clamor -proclaim or demand something noisily
  19. Circumlocution -expressing someone with too many words in an indirect way
  20. Cognizant – realization or awareness 
  21. Construe – to interpret or assign meaning
  22. Convivial -happy and enjoyable atmosphere or jovial company
  23. Denigrate -to criticize someone
  24. Dispel – make doubt disappear
  25. Didactic  – designed to teach people something
  26. Demagogue -a political leader who uses rhetoric to appeal to prejudices and desires of ordinary citizens
  27. Disparate – consisting of people or things of a distinct kind
  28. Egregious – outrageously bad
  29. Embezzlement -misappropriation of funds.
  30. Ephemeral– lasting or used for an only short duration
  31. Eclectic -deriving the best ideas and styles or taste from a diverse range of sources
  32. Enervate -feel drained in vitality or energy.
  33. Equanimity -maintaining a calm state of mind in stressful situations
  34. Fatuous -pointless or devoid of intelligence
  35. Gratuitous -given or done free of charge, uncalled for or unwarranted
  36. Impeccable – flawless
  37. Incumbent -something that is morally binding
  38. Idiosyncratic -something which is peculiar to an individual
  39. Iconoclast -a person who criticizes or attacks cherished beliefs
  40. Inveterate -having a particular habit or habitual
  41. Kvetchy- Ill-tempered
  42. Libertarian -someone who believes in ideas of free will
  43. Licentious -disregarding accepted conventions, someone who is promiscuous
  44. Mendacious -not telling the truth, deceitful
  45. Multifarious -multifaceted or diverse types
  46. Ostracism -excluding a person from society by majority consent
  47. Obdurate -being stubborn to change one’s opinion
  48. Obfuscate – unclear; confuse
  49. Obsequious – try to win favor from influential people
  50. Obstreperous – noisy and difficult to control
  51. Ostensible – appearing to be true
  52. Pallid – abnormally pale or lacking intensity of color
  53. Pertinacious -holding to an opinion, someone who is stubbornly unyielding
  54. Promulgate-to promote or broadcast or announce
  55. Pejorative -showing or expressing disapproval
  56. Phlegmatic -having little or no emotion
  57. Quotidian -something that is occurring daily 
  58. Recalcitrant -resistant or uncooperative to authority
  59. Sanctimonious -pretending being morally pious to exhibit moral superiority
  60. Solipsism -the theory that only the self-existence is known 
  61. Travesty -a false or distorting fact or imitation
  62. Ubiquitous -omnipresent or appearing everywhere
  63. Unfathom – Puzzling
  64. Vicissitude – an unpleasant change in fortune or circumstances 
  65. Vociferous -someone who is offensively/ conspicuously loud.
  66. Timbre- Voicetone
  67. Boorish- Rude, Uncultured
  68. Uncouth– Impolite, Unrefined
  69. Querulous– Complaining, Showing that one is irritated.
  70. Plumes– Soft features
  71. Throng– Crowd, In large numbers
  72. Irk– Annoy
  73. Sordid– Dishonest or immoral
  74. Invigorate– give strength or energy to
  75. Alienate– cause to feel isolated

Some English words can be annoying for everyone, whether it is a professional or a beginner. There are many difficult words that cause trouble. It is very difficult for a person to get used to these words, especially for a student. Students use different ways like music to get used to these words or by making flashcards with difficult words and their meaning. Some other method of learning difficult words is to create a story for remembering the difficult words as it is easy to remember a story rather than learning the meaning of a difficult word. As we all know for the people who want to get education from abroad or while giving an entrance exam you must perform well in the verbal ability section in that test.  

Vocabulary is the major and necessary aspect for the person who wants to prepare for the competitive exam, and it is very important to master it when you are giving a test. You cannot learn so many words at a time, there is a limit for cramming of words at a time. Learn just a few difficult words at a time and after that properly understand their meaning. Try to make sentences using difficult words and use them in your day-to-day life while interacting with the people.

Use of English vocabulary in The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT)

The Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) consists of Integrated Reasoning, Verbal, Quantitative and Analytical Writing. A complete English vocabulary is necessary to score on these sections, with the quantitative section which includes mathematical and logical skills. Some sections of GMAT, measure your understanding and ability to read the written content.      

Use of English vocabulary in The Graduate Record Examination (GRE)

The Graduate Record Examination consists of 3 sections: Verbal, Analytical Writing and Quantitative. GRE is a kind of difficult exam to crack. Many people say that GRE is much more difficult in comparison to GMAT. The vocabulary of GRE is more difficult because so many rare words are given in the question paper that is difficult to understand. So, students should prepare in the best way possible and should learn new words as many as possible. One should be good in English grammar along with hundreds of difficult words to score well in two of the 3 sections without including the quantitative section. Thus, when it is about GRE examination students should be completely prepared in their vocabulary skills.  

Our mind works properly, and it learns things better when we engage in fun activities, when we learn difficult words it looks boring, but we can make it exciting and full of fun. You along with your friends challenge one another by making placards with meanings, this kind of activity will keep you busy and you can easily keep the hard words in your mind. If these kinds of group activities do not suit you, make a list of the difficult words and just before sleep revise them, this will help you in learning the words better.   

Books to improve vocabulary

Want to improve your vocabulary? If yes, then here is a compilation of essential books for you.

  • 504 Absolutely Essential Words
  • Build Your Vocabulary Skills
  • Word Power Made Easy
  • The Elements of Style
  • The Meaning of Everything
  • Word by Word

new English words you should know in 2023

So, let’s make this vocabulary list interesting by adding some latest and trendy English words to it. Check out the list here:

Stan

Meaning: An extremely excessively enthusiastic and devoted fan (stalker-fan).

Nomophobia

Meaning: Fear or worry at the idea of being without your phone or unable to use it.

Peoplekind

Meaning: A gender-neutral alternative to mankind’.

Bottle episode

Meaning: An episode of a television series that is confined to one setting and isn’t expensive to produce.

Carbon sink

Meaning: A forest, ocean, or another natural environment’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Buzzy

Meaning: Something that generates excitement and gets people talking.

Sober-curious

Meaning: Experimenting with a period of not drinking alcohol.

Permaculture

Meaning: It is a portmanteau word, which means it combines two words to make a new one.

Hellacious

Meaningan awful experience and is often used to describe traffic, weather or even a period of time.

Climate emergency

Meaning: defined as a situation in which urgent action is required to reduce or halt climate change and avoid potentially irreversible environmental damage resulting from it.

Flamboyant

Meaning: easily able to attract the attention of others due to some qualities like exuberance, confidence, and stylishness.

Inquisitive

Meaning: displaying interest in knowing different things, being very curious about a particular thing.

Exuberant

Meaning: Having a lot of energy, being cheerful and excited.

Vitriolic

Meaning: Being harsh, bitter, or malicious in tone

Vivacious

Meaning: Being vigorous and excited

Abstruse

Meaning: difficult to understand and grasp

Contrite

Meaning: feeling or expressing pain or sorrow

Covet

Meaning: wishing, longing, or craving for something

Mawkish

Meaning: State of being very sentimental or emotional

The conversation is key to language that enhance our personality and develops us. While conversation it can help others to know your knowledge. Using these words into your conversation can enhance your personality. Different word into our daily conversation can enhance your personality along with can give a good impact on others.

Henceforth try to add these difficult words into your daily conversation or use them in your vocabulary so that they can enhance your English, your knowledge. These words can add stars in your impression. As if we interact with someone or go or an interview job our personality, our language our way of talking is the first thing which comes in the notice by the others. So if we use these difficult words or non-common words so they can add extra stares into your personality along with can enhance your confidence level, that will boast you high towards your work or among people. You and your friends can make plug cards with difficult words and challenge each other with meanings, the fun activity will keep you engaged and help you keep those difficult words in mind.

How to learn difficult words with meanings

Following are some steps through which it will be easier to learn difficult English words with meanings:

  • Students can maintain a notebook for vocabulary
  • They should learn at least one word on daily basis.
  • Students should solve crossword puzzle to increase their knowledge
  • Students should have a habit of reading novels.
  • A handy dictionary should be with you. You can download it on your mobile. So wherever you be, you can learn easily some hard words of English. As we all know that it is a world of technology, and mobile phones are used on a very large scale. You must be aware of various applications on your mobile. You can also download a dictionary application using the play store or apple store. When you open the dictionary app, you will be able to find the meaning of all the difficult words.
  • You might be confused about which application to use as there are millions of applications available on the internet, then you must refer to the following applications to learn the English language- Rosetta Stone, FluentU, Hello English, Duolingo, etc.
  • When you listen your favorite songs, you also learn the lyrics of that songs, so in case of when you learning English learn it as in the form.
  • You can also start watching English movies, and series to practice high-level English. You will get to know more about the tone of speaking used by the native English people.

Apart from these today in English language you’ll see the so called Gen Z kids using different different kinds of acronyms on Social Media. Which apparently seems very fun and there is always some or the other new word or new acronyms coming up. For example – brb which means be right back, Ikr which means I know right and several such acronyms are used informally.

Difficult Words why we need to remameber ?

We need to remember the why because it’s the reason we do things. The why is our purpose, our motivation- it’s what drives us to do what we do. If we don’t have a strong why, we won’t be as likely to stick with something when it gets tough. Remembering the why helps us to stay focused and motivated. The motive is to learn the language in depth and to become fluent in it. Using difficult yet standard words in writing or speaking increases vocabulary and leave a good impact on the listeners.

most difficult — перевод на русский

The most difficult part had been done, but we lost someone – Flipper.

Самое трудное было позади. Но мы потеряли Флиппера.

But, the most difficult thing will be getting passes for transport

Но самое трудное будет достать пропуск, чтобы это вывезти.

A most difficult decision, captain.

Самое трудное решение, капитан.

Tamino, your third and most difficult task remains

Тамино, это твоё последнее и самое трудное испытание!

The most difficult thing is to change human thought.

Самое трудное — изменить мышление людей.

Показать ещё примеры для «самое трудное»…

They have passed the most difficult place, the wall.

Они прошли самое сложное ту страшную стену.

The most difficult thing is…

Самое сложное, это то…

Escoffier’s most difficult dish, done to tangy perfection.

Я сделал это! Самое сложное блюдо Эскофье доведённое до совершенства.

The most difficult thing in photography, and probably in other fields as well. Is to look what you’ve done with complete detachment.

Самое сложное в фотографии — возможно, и в других сферах тоже — взглянуть на то, что ты сделал, со стороны, отвлечённо.

Learning to scream, it seems, is one of the most difficult things.

Научиться кричать – самое сложное в актерском мастерстве.

Показать ещё примеры для «самое сложное»…

You know what’s the most difficult in our work?

А ты знаешь, что самое тяжёлое в нашей работе?

The most difficult part is waiting.

Самое тяжёлое в нашей работе — ждать.

I told him the most difficult part.

Я сказала вам самое тяжёлое.

Men, this is the most difficult mission we’ve ever faced.

Мужики, это самое тяжелое задание, из тех, что нам когда-либо поручали.

But this is by far the most difficult thing ever asked of me.

Но это самое тяжёлое задание, что мне когда-либо давали.

Показать ещё примеры для «самое тяжёлое»…

A balance of power, the trickiest, most difficult, dirtiest game of them all.

Баланс сил — коварнейшая, сложнейшая и грязнейшая из всех игр.

The most difficult surgery known to man, right?

Сложнейшая операция, известная человечеству.

The one that I’ve always thought the most difficult is you can imagine a mother watching her son who’s remetalling the bottom of a pan. She says, «Are you copper-bottoming ’em, my man?»

Сложнейшая фраза на мой взгляд та, где, сначала представьте мать, наблюдающую, как сын восстанавливает металлическое покрытие дна сковородки, она говорит: » — Ты покрываешь дно медью, мой мальчик?

When Adam came to see me today, he was playing one of his most difficult pieces.

Когда Адам пришел ко мне сегодня, он сыграл одно из его сложнейших произведений.

Kenneth, since you’ve left the page program, finding you a new position here has been one of the most difficult challenges of my career.

Кеннет, когда ты ушел из посыльных, то поиск нового места работы для тебя стало одним из сложнейших вызовов за всю мою карьеру.

Показать ещё примеры для «сложнейшая»…

This is a most difficult announcement.

Это — наиболее трудное объявление.

And though the loss of a loved one is extremely difficult in any case, survivors of suicide tend to have the most difficult grief journey.

И хотя потеря любимого чрезвычайно трудно в любом случае, переживать самоубийство,как правило наиболее трудное испытание.

The Epistle of Jeremy is often cited as the most difficult book of the Apocrypha.

Послание Иеремии часто цитируется как наиболее трудное из апокрифических книг.

[Viesturs] Just below the summit… is the most difficult pitch of the whole climb… the wall of rock and ice known as the Hillary Step.

Прямо под вершиной… наиболее трудный участок всего восхождения-— стена из камня и льда, известная как Ступень Хиллари.

And that turned out to be the most difficult question of the mid-20th Century, but when an answer came, it was to bring with it an unexpected revelation.

И это оказалось наиболее трудным вопросом в середине 20-го века. Но когда пришел ответ, он принес с собой неожиданное открытие.

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And perhaps one of the most difficult.


Cantonese is one of the world’s most difficult languages to learn.



Кантонский язык (cantonese) является одним из самых сложных языков в мире для изучения.


Working with people is considered one of the most difficult.



А всем известно, что работа с людьми считается одной из самых трудных.


One of the most difficult problems in Smart City management is data fidelity.



«Одна из самых трудных проблем в управлении «умным городом» — это подлинность данных.


Financing is perhaps the most difficult aspect of public transit.



Проблема финансирования, пожалуй, представляет собой самый сложный аспект развития общественного транспорта.


Logistically, this was probably the most difficult trip I took.



В эмоциональном плане это был, пожалуй, самый сложный поход из тех, в которые я ходила.


Choosing between two similarly attractive possibilities is one of our most difficult decisions.



По сути, выбор из двух одинаково привлекательных вещей — один из самых сложных в нашей жизни.


Pregnancy perhaps is one of the most difficult events most women pass through.



Беременность, возможно, является одним из самых сложных событий, которые большинство женщин проходят через.


Consciousness is surely the most difficult question facing both philosophy and science.



Понимание природы сознания — одна из самых сложных проблем, с которой приходилось сталкиваться как философии, так и науке.


Nokian means safe driving and excellent performance in even the most difficult weather conditions.



Шины Нокиан — это, прежде всего, безопасное вождение и отличная производительность даже в самых сложных погодных условиях.


Everybody agrees that Chinese is one of the most difficult languages to study.



Ни для кого не секрет, что китайский является одним из самых сложных языков для изучения.


That was the most difficult part, recalls Mathur.



Это был один из самых сложных моментов», — вспоминает Демидов.


Fighting your own weaknesses is most difficult.


Lessons especially important in the most recent, most difficult years.



Их, чаще всего, надо где-то находить, что особенно важно в последние, очень сложные годы.


The most difficult thing was shifting my mindset.



Самая сложная часть была в том, чтобы переключить своё мышление.


This is perhaps the most difficult step for beginners.



Это, пожалуй, является самым проблемным шагом для начинающих бизнесменов.


Changing ourselves is often the most difficult task we can face in life.



Изменение самих себя часто является самой трудной задачей, с которой мы можем столкнуться в своей жизни.


The situation is most difficult for women in rural areas.


Worst affected are the poorest countries and those living under the most difficult circumstances.



В наибольшей мере от этого заболевания страдают беднейшие страны и лица, живущие в крайне тяжелых условиях.


Clearly, promoting awareness is the most difficult task.



Не вызывает сомнений, что самая сложная задача связана с информированием общественности.

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Want to know about difficult words with meanings? If yes, then this blog post is for you. In this post, you will check out the list of more than 100+ difficult or hardest words along with their meanings.

Knowing difficult words is very useful in improving your communication and writing skills. Generally, students are advised to learn difficult words because it can help in improving their English and writing skills. Also, it can help in general as well as in competitive examinations.

Now, let’s move toward the list of difficult words with meaning.

difficult words with meaning

1. Abluvion: that which is washed off.

2. Accismus: a form of irony in which a person feigns indifference to or pretends to refuse something he or she desires.

3. Alalia: loss of power of speaking

4. Amaurosis: partial or total loss of sight

5. Anecdote: narrative, story

6. Brunette: dark-skinned and brown-haired woman with dark eyes.

7. Blare: utter loudly, roar, bellowing noise.

8. Billingsgate: abuse, foul language.

9. Bastinado: to best with a stick in the soles of feet.

10. Buoy: an an-chored floating seamark for showing navigable course.

11. Caoutchouc: raw rubber (India rubber)

12. Cauterisation: an act of burning or searing.

13. Chandelier: a kind of branched support for holding several lights.

14. Chiaroscuro: light and shade in painting.

15. Cotyloid: of the shape or a cup.

16. Dactyl: the metrical foot.

17. Daltonism: colourblindness.

18. Deglutinate: to separate what is glued.

19. Dirigible: an aircraft that is able to be guided.

20. Duelling: the act or practice of fighting in single combat.

21. Ecclesiast: the preacher, a clergyman, an author of one of the old testaments.

22. Eirenicon: a proposal for peace, a peace-making message.

23. Emolument: advantage, gain, salary.

24. Epicarp: the outer skin of fruits.

25. Euphemism: substitution of a mild expression for an unpleasant thing.

26. Fistulate: to become a pipe, to make hallow like a pipe.

27. Flageolet: a small wind instrument.

28. Fontanelle: a gap between the bones of the skull of a young animal or infant.

29. Formidableness: dreadfulness.

30. Fortuitist: one who depends on fate.

31. Fratricidal: pertaining to the killing of a brother or sister.

32. Galimatias: meaning-less talk.

33. Garrulous: loquacious, talkative.

34. Gnathic: pertaining to jaws.

35. Gossamer: the web of a spider floating in the air.

36. Gridiron: a frame of iron bars for broiling.

37. Hackneyed: trite, much used.

38. Hearsay: a rumour, gossip.

39. Helianthus: the sunflower.

40. Hereabouts: near here.

41. Hyacinthine: a kind of gem.

42. Idiosyncrasy: the peculiarity of mental constitution.

43. Impresario: an organiser of public entertainments.

44. Inalienability: the qua; it of being transferable.

45. Inkling: a hint, a whisper.

46. Inspissate: to make thick, to condense.

47. Jinricksha: a light two-wheeled carriage drawn by a man.

48. Johnsonian: abounding in difficult and pedantic words.

49. Juxtapose: to place side by side.

50: Jurisprudence: the science of human law.

Hard Words with Meanings (51-100)

51. Kedgy: merry, happy, lively.

52. Knapsack: a leather or canvas bag.

53. Kinship: blood relationship, alliance.

54. Kerseymere: twilled woollen cloth.

55. Kaleidoscope: an optical toy in which an endless variety of beautiful coloured designs is seen.

56. Lanchrymation: the burst of tears.

57. Lambrequin: a short piece of drapery over a door or window.

58. Languorously: in a dull manner.

59. Lithoglyph: an engraving on a gem.

60. Loquacious: talkative, chattering, noisy.

61. Magnanimous: having the greatness of mind, high-souled, high-minded.

62. Magniloquent: bragging, speaking pompously, boastful.

63. Maladministration: bad management.

64. Masquerade: a masked ball, a false show, pretence.

65. Melancholy: mental depression, sad, gloomy, depressing.

66. Nacarat: a bright orange-red colour, a fabric so coloured.

67. Naivety: unaffectedness, simplicity.

68. Nuptail: pertaining to marriage.

69. Nymphomania: uncontrollable sexual desire in women.

70. Nux Vomica: a tree yielding a poisonous fruit.

71. Obduracy: hardness of heart.

72. Obnubilation: confused condition.

73. Odontoloxia: irregularity of teeth.

74. Oneiromancy: the act of divining by dreams.

75. Ought: used in the force of expressing duty, to be morally necessary, should.

76. Palingenesis: a new birth, regeneration.

77. Pantisocracy: a community in which all should have equal power.

78. Pantophagist: he who eats all kinds of food.

79. Paronym: words alike in sound but different in spelling and meaning.

80. Pauperization: reducing poverty.

81. Quasi: that is to say, as if, almost.

82. Querulous: habitually complaining, peevish.

83. Quixotic: visionary, romantic, absurd.

84. Quoit: a heavy circular iron ring was thrown to encircle an iron peg.

85. Quotum: share, proportion.

86. Rejuvebescence: renewal of youth.

87. Reify: to convert mentally into a material thing.

88. Reliquiae: remains of animals or plants.

89. Relics: a dead body.

90. Retrospect: backward view, review of past time, a survey of past events.

91. Salubrious: wholesome, healthy.

92. Sarcophagous: feeding on flesh.

93. Scansorial: habitually climbing, fit for climbing.

94. Scathless: without injury.

95. Septifarious: turned in seven different ways.

96. Tautologize: to repeat the same thing.

97. Tellural: pertaining to the earth.

98. Tenaciousness: the quality of being adhesive.

99. Tergiferous: carrying on the back.

100. Thwaite: a piece of barren land.

Source – RealLife English

Difficult Words in English with Meanings

101. Umbrifererous: casting a shade.

102. Unforsaken: not deserted.

103. Ungenteel: impolite.

104: Unigeniture: state of being the only one begotten.

105. Unremunerative: not profitable.

106. Veracious: true, one who observes truth.

107. Vermiceous: pertaining to worms.

108. Vicegerency: the office of a deputy.

109: Vaxatious: distressing irritating, teasing.

110. Vicinage: neighbourhood.

111. Walrus: a large tusked carnivorous sea animal.

112. Wantwit: one who is destitute of wit, a fool.

113. Wssail: a festive occasion, a drinking bout, a merry song, health drinking.

114. Weepingly: in tears.

115. Wretchedness: extreme misery or sorrow.

116. Xanthochroia: yellow discolouration of the skin.

117. Xyloid: like wood.

118. Xerotribia: dry friction.

119. Xerochastic: opening when dried.

120. Xylocarp: a hard and woody fruit.

121. Yardarm: the end of a ship’s yard.

122. Yokel: an ignorant rustic fellow.

123. Yurt: a tent of the people of the arctic region.

124. Yucca: a plant of the lily family.

125. Yulan: a beautiful flowering tree.

126. Zoiatria: veterinary surgery.

127. Zoanthropy: a monomania in which a man believes himself to be a beast.

128. Zapote: a round fruit with a hard stone.

129. Zythum: a kind of beer.

130. Zwieback: a kind of sweet biscuit.

10 Most Difficult Words to Pronounce in English

  1. Asterisk
  2. Apocryphal
  3. Anemone
  4. Colloquialism
  5. Defibrillator
  6. Explicit
  7. Massachusetts
  8. Synecdoche
  9. Schadenfreude
  10. Worcestershire

Difficult Words to Spell with Silent Letters

  • Faux
  • Subtle
  • Honest
  • Receipt
  • Asthma
  • Muscle
  • Phlegm
  • Chthonic
  • Pterodactyl
  • Mnemonic
  • Apropos
  • Knead
  • Gnaw
  • Solemn
  • Rendezvous

10 Hardest Words to Spell

  1. Gobbledegook
  2. Pochemuchka
  3. Chiaroscurist
  4. Logorrhea
  5. Handkerchief
  6. Pronunciation
  7. Intelligence
  8. Wierd
  9. Pharaoh
  10. Misspell

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are 5 difficult words?

5 difficult words are Worcestershire, Synecdoche, Pterodactyl, Rendezvous, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.

What are 10 hardest word words?

10 hardest words are Jinricksha, Tenaciousness, Tautologize, Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious, Worcestershire, Oneiromancy, Lanchrymation, Inalienability, Caoutchouc, Hereabouts.

There are numerous difficult words in English. Knowing them is essential in improving one’s communication, and writing skills. Difficult English words are certain words that are hard to read, spell, write, and understand. A good vocabulary makes it easier to communicate, and interact with others. Knowing difficult English words helps an individual to express themselves better. It makes one’s thoughts more accurate. One needs more than a definition to understand a word’s meaning. The word must be seen in how it was used in a sentence.  Seeing a word within a sentence’s context helps someone understand it better and how to use it correctly. English has numerous tricky words. It becomes impossible to remember all these words, particularly the difficult ones. Consistent studying and learning enable one to identify difficult words in English. Reading helps a lot in familiarizing one’s self with words that are new, and unfamiliar. 

People sometimes avoid using difficult English words in daily conversations, for fear of being misunderstood. However, the only way to be more familiar with these difficult words is by using them regularly. Using difficult English words sharpens the mind and improves communication skills. The only way to understand complex English words is by facing them. Do not skip a paragraph that contains a difficult word when reading. Learn and understand its meaning instead. Constant reading makes a person gets exposed to a variety of English words, particularly the difficult ones. Difficult English words are challenging for many people because they do not encounter them regularly. The best way to understand the meaning of difficult words in English is by looking up their definition in the Dictionary.

Listed below are five of the Most Difficult Words in English.

  • Belie: The word “belie” means to give a false representation. “Belie” originated from Middle English “belyen”, which means “to lie around.” “Belie” works in a sentence as a transitive verb.
  • Arrant: The meaning of the word “arrant” is wholly, or complete. “Arrant” originated from the Old French “errant,” the present participle of “errer”, which means “to walk.”
  • Untoward: The meaning of “untoward” is inconvenient. “Untoward” originated from the Old English “un” meaning “not.” The word “toward” was derived from Old English “toward,” which means “in the direction of. ”Untoward’ works as either a noun or an adjective in a sentence.
  • Byzantine: The meaning of “Byzantine” is intricate, or complex.  “Byzantine” originated from the late Latin “byzantinus”, from Byzantium. “Untoward’ works as either a noun or an adjective in a sentence.
  • Conciliate: The meaning of “conciliate” is to make peace with. “Conciliate” originated from the Latin “conciliatus”, the past participle of “conciliare “to bring together, unite in feelings.” 

1. Belie

The word “Belie” comes from Middle English “belyen” or “beliggen.” Old English “belican” or  “bilicgan” means (to lie around, surround, hedge in, or encompass). “Belie” means to show something false or hide something, such as an emotion. Contradict is one synonym for the word “belie.” The term “approve” is the antonym for “belie.” “Belie” is used in a sentence as a transitive verb.  An example sentence of “belie.” “Her cheerful appearance belies her feelings.” The word “belie” was used to describe something that is not true, which pertains to feelings.  “Belie” is among the difficult words in English because it is not commonly used by many. 

2. Arrant 

‘“Arrant” means extreme, or being notorious without moderation. The word “Arrant” comes from a variant of errant, from Middle English “erarunt,” from Anglo-Norman “erraunt,” from Old French errant, the present participle of “errer” (“to walk”). Although arrant is a variant of errant, their modern meanings have diverged. “Arrant” is used in the sense of “complete; downright, while errant means “roving around.” The synonym of “arrant” is complete. The antonym o the word ‘arrant” is “suspicious.” An example sentence of “arrant.” “All the rumors being spread about Kim are nothing but arrant.” “Arrant” is used in a sentence as an adjective to say how bad something is. “Arrant” is one of the most difficult words in English. It is not an easy and common word that appears regularly. 

3. Untoward 

“Untoward” means improper or unseemly. It has enjoyed this meaning since the early 1520s. The origin of the word “untoward” comes from the prefix of negotiation, Old English “un.” From Proto-Germanic “un,” from PIE “n” (source of Sanskrit a-, an- “not,” Greek a-, an-, Old Irish an-, Latin in-), combining form of PIE root “ne”-”not.” Often the nature of (such as untruth for “lie”). The most abundant of English prefixes, freely and generally used in Old English, were form more than 1,000 compounds. The word “toward” comes from Old English “toward” “in the direction of,” prepositional use of “toward” (adjective) “coming, facing, approaching, “from to (see to) + – ward.  One synonym for the word “untoward” is “unexpected,” while its antonym is “expected.” “Toward” is one of the difficult words in English.  The adjective “untoward” is used in a sentence to express something inappropriate or offensive. An example sentence of the word “untoward”, is “I hope nothing untoward will happen on the event.” 

4. Byzantine 

“Byzantine” involves the Byzantine Empire or the Eastern Orthodox Church. Another definition of “Byzantine” is something incredibly complicated, and usually relates to a great deal of administrative detail. “Byzantine” comes from the late Latin “byzantinus”, itself from Byzantium. The metaphorical senses gave rise to the reputation for palace intrigue of the Byzantium imperial court. The word “complicated is synonymous with “Byzantine.” The antonym of “Byzantine” is “simple.” The adjective ‘Byzantine” is used in sentences relating to complex, or complicated. The noun “Byzantine” is used in a sentence when referring to a native or citizen of Byzantium.  An example sentence of the word “Byzantine” is “We are engaged in a Byzantine process this evening,” and “Julie became more confused as she walked through the Byzantine maze.”   

5. Conciliate

The word “Conciliate” means to stop someone from being angry, or to pacify. “Conciliate” comes from the Latin “conciliatus”, the past participle of “conciliare “to bring together, unite in feelings,” from “concilium”, “a meeting, or gathering,” from an assimilated form of “com” “together, together with.” The earlier verb was Middle English concile “to reconcile” from the late 14th century. The synonym of “conciliate” is appeased, while its antonym is “irritate.” “Conciliate” is used in a sentence as a verb to overcome distrust, or to reconcile. An example sentence of the word “conciliate” is “Mayor George hoped that by calling them to his councils, he should conciliate the opposition.”

6. Equivocate

The word “equivocate” means to use ambiguous, or vague expressions.” The origin of “equivocate” comes from the late 15th century, from Medieval Latin equivocatus, the past participle of equivocare “to call by the same name, be called by the same name, have the same sound. ” “Equivocate” is synonymous with the word  “fudge.” The antonym of “equivocate” is “to be honest.” The verb ‘equivocate” is used in a sentence to deceive, or mislead, someone. An example sentence of the word “equivocate” is, “Please do not equivocate about this subject; we need to make a plan.” “Equivocate” is one of the most difficult words in English because it is not a common term used daily. 

7. Truculent

“Truculent” means quick to argue, or aggressively defiant. The origin of the word “trulucent” dates back to the 1530s, from Latin trulculentus meaning “fierce, savage, and cruel.” From trux (genitive trucis) “fierce, rough, wild,”. It has been used in English since the 16th century to describe a person or a thing that is cruel, and ferocious. The synonym of “truculent” is “defiant,” while its antonym is “amiable.” The word “truculent” is an adjective used in a sentence to describe someone who is quick to argue. An example sentence of the word “truculent”, is “He is always in a truculent mood.”  Not many people understood the meaning of “truculent” because it is not a common word. It is one of the most difficult English words.

8. Diatribe

“Diatribe” is a verbal attack against someone or something. The origin of “diatribe” started way back in the 1640s from the French diatribe, and directly from the Latin diatriba “learned discussion.” From the Greek diatribe “employment, study,” in Plato, “discourse,” literally “a wasting of time.” The modern definition “a strain of insult, a bitter, and violent criticism” by 1804, from the French. “Diatribe” is synonymous with “tirade.” The antonym of “diatribe” is “compliment.” “Diatribe” refers to a disrespectful speech or form of writing. The word “diatribe” is among the most difficult English words and is not commonly found in contemporary contexts. A “diatribe” nowadays, is less formal than a rant, made for criticism, employing humor, and sarcasm. An example sentence of the word “diatribe” is “The book is a diatribe against social media.”    

9. Quisling

The word ‘quisling” originated from “national traitor,” particularly during World War II in Nazi-occupied countries. It comes from the word “collaborationist,”, from Vidkun Quisling (1887-1945), a Norwegian fascist politician who led the puppet government during the German occupation of Norway in World War II. The traitor was shot because of treason after the German defeat. “Quisling” was first used in the London Times on April 15, 1940, in a Swedish context. The synonym of ‘quisling” is “backstabber.” The antonym of “quisling” is “patriot.” “Quisling” is used in a sentence as a noun, often attributive to a traitor. An example sentence of “quisling” is “All quislings would be punished without mercy.”

10. Artless 

The word “artless’ is defined as without effort or without skill. The history o the word “artless” started in the 1580s, “unskillful,” from “art” and “less.” The word ‘art” originated from early 13c, which means “skill as a result of learning.” From Old French art, from Latin artem (nominative ars), “work of art; practical skill; a craft. The word “less” came from Old English “leas” “free (from) false, feigned,” from Proto_Germanic “lausaz.” the synonym of ‘artless” is “ingenou.” The antonym of the word “artless” is “sophisticated.” The adjective “artless” is used in a sentence about lacking art or knowledge. ‘Artless” generally denotes an appearance of utter naturalness. The first known use o the word “artless’ was in 1586. An example sentence of the word “artless” is, “The diction is simple; however, the writing is artless.”

11.Blinkered                                                                                

“Blinkered” means narrow-minded, or having a limited understanding. The first known use of the word “blinkered” was in 1838. “Blinkered” is used in a sentence as an adjective to describe someone with a limited understanding of something. The origin of “blinkered” comes from the figurative sense, from horses being fitted with blinders to limit the range of their vision, in 1849. “Blinkered” is an adjective used in a sentence when describing a narrow-minded person. An example sentence of “blinkered” is, “His worst qualities are that he is blinkered most o the time.” “Blinkered” is considered one of the most difficult English words because it is British slang.

12. Maudlin

“Maudlin” means self-pitying, or feeling sorry for yourself. The origin of the word “maudlin” comes from the Middle English proper name Maudelen (early 14c), from Magdalene (Old French Madelaine), a woman’s name, which was believed to be similar to the repentant sinner forgiven by Jesus Christ. “Magdalene” was often shown crying as a sign of repentance in paintings. This association led to the constant portrayal of Mary Magdalene as a weeping  penitent. Even the name Magdalene suggested sad emotions to many native English speakers. The synonym of “maudlin” is “emotional.” The antonym of the word “maudlin”  is  “unemotional.” The adjective “maudlin” is used in a sentence to describe someone who is effusively sentimental. An example sentence of ‘maudlin” is “The Governor made a compassionate speech, without being maudlin.”

13. Invective

The word “invective” is defined as something abusive, or insulting. The history of the word “invective” comes from Middle French invective, from Medieval Latin invectiva (“abusive speech”), from Latin invectīvus, from invectus, the perfect passive participle of invehō (“bring in”), from in- + vehō (“carry”). The earlier noun form in English was inveccion, and invective in Middle English. The synonym of “invective” is “insult.” The antonym of the word “invective” is “compliment.” The noun “invective” is used in a sentence as a rude or unpleasant thing that people shout. It is a form of abusive expression or speech. “Invective” originated in the 15th century as an adjective relating to “insult.” The word “invective” is identical to “verbal abuse.” An example sentence of “invective” is “He indulged in the more violent invective.”

14. Remonstrate 

The word “remonstrate” means to plead in protest, or to oppose. “Remostrate” comes from Medieval Latin remonstratus, the past participle of remonstrate “to demonstrate.” Meaning “to show or present strong reasons against.” The first known use of “remonstrate” was in 1615. The synonym for “remonstrate” is “object.” The antonym for “remonstrate” is ‘accept.” “Remonstrate” is used in a sentence either as an intransitive or transitive verb. An example sentence of “remonstrate” is “The locals tried to remonstrate with the Mayor’s new policy.”

15. Sartorial

“Sartorial” means tailored clothes or relating to a tailor. The history of “sartorial” originated from Modern Latin sartorius, from the Late Latin word sartor “tailor,” “patcher, mender,” from Latin sart-, past participle stem of sarcire “to patch, mend.” From PIE root srko- “to make whole”).  One of the synonyms for sartorial is “elegant.” The antonym of sartorial is  “unstylish.” “Sartorial” is an adjective used in a sentence involving clothes. The word ‘sartorial” is mainly used in fashion magazines. “Sartorial” has been in style with English speakers since at least 1823. An example sentence of “sartorial” is “The Countess is determined to make sartorial choices that bring her joy.” “Sartorial” is one of the most difficult English words because many people do not commonly use it. 

16. Sybarite

The definition of ‘sybarite” is sensualist, or voluptuary. The word “sybarite” is a person devoted to pleasure.” The history of “sybarite” originated from an ancient Greek town in southern Italy, the inhabitants of Sybaris. They are people known for their love of Luxury. One synonym for the word “sybarite” is ‘sensualist.” The antonym for “sybarite” is “puritan.” ‘Sybarite” is a noun used in a sentence referring to sensualist. An example sentence of “sybarite” is “My grandma is a self-proclaimed sybarite, who wears nothing but luxurious clothes.” “Sybarite” acts as an adjective and a noun. “Sybarite” as a noun, is a person addicted to luxury. 

17. Inundate

“Inundate” means overwhelm, or overflow. It is typically used to refer to a deluge of water, and concerning an overflow of something less tangible. The origin of the word “inundate” comes from inundation in the 1620s. It originated from the Latin inundatus, the past participle of inundated “to overflow.” One synonym for “inundate” is “overflow.” The antonym for “inundate” is “drain.” “Inundate” is a verb used in a sentence referring to something overwhelming. An example sentence of “inundate” is “The storm will inundate low-lying regions in our country.”

18. Curmudgeon

The word “curmudgeon” means a person who gets annoyed easily, usually an old person. “Curmudgeon” originates from an unknown origin in the 1570s. According to the suggestion, it was based on a misreading of a garbled note from Johnson, that it was from the French “Coeur mechan” or “evil heart.” Most linguists believe that the word ‘cur”, meaning dog, is slightly connected to the word “curmudgeon.”  Liberman says the word “must have been borrowed from Gaelic muigean “disagreeable person.” The word “crank” is synonymous with “curmudgeon.” The antonym for “curmudgeon” is “cordial.” “Curmudgeon” is a noun used in a sentence pertaining to an old person who always has a bad temper.  An example sentence of “curmudgeon” is “Only a curmudgeon will not appreciate the neighborhood’s holiday decorations.”

19. Anodyne

The word “anodyne” as a noun means something that calms. “Anodyne” as an adjective means serving to lessen pain. The origin of “anodyne” originated in the 1540s, from the Medieval Latin anodynus “pain-removing,” from the Latin anodynus “painless.” From Greek anodynos “free from pain,” others suggest it is an asuffixed form of PIE root “ed” – “to eat,” “to devour.” As a noun, “substance which alleviates pain,” derived from old slang, an understatement for “death.” The synonym of “anodyne” is “bland.” The antonym of “anodyne” is “poisonous.” An example sentence of “anodyne” is “The doctor gave his patient a strong anodyne to relieve the pain.”

20. Gaffe

“Gaffe” means a diplomatic blunder, or an obvious mistake. The origin of the word “gafee” comes from perhaps French gaffe “clumsy remark’, from Old Provencal gafar “to seize, “from a Germanic source, from Proto_germanic Gaf-which is from the PIE root “kap” meaning “to grasp.” Possible origin from Modern English derived from the British slang verb gaff “to cheat,” or from the Scottish dialect of ‘loud, rude talk.” The synonym of “gaffe” is “mistake.” The antonym o the word “gaffe” is “correction.” “Gaffe” is a noun used in a sentence when referring to a noticeable mistake. An example sentence of “gaffe” is “He committed an embarrassing gaffe when he mispronounced a word, during his speech. “

21. Vie

The word “vie” means to compete, or to contend.  “Vie” comes from the 1560s “to bet, make a bet,” from the shortened form of Middle English envie “make a challenge.” From the Old French envier “compete, provoke, or summon,” in gambling, from Latin invitare “to invite.” The word “vie” is a verb used in a sentence to convey content or show superiority. The synonym of “vie” is “contend’. The antonym for the word “vie” is “agree.” An example sentence of “vie” is “The high school football team continues to vie for a national championship.” “Vie” is not a common word and is one of the most difficult English words.

22. Decimation

“Decimation” means the act of killing numerous animals, plants, or people in a certain area. The origin of “decimation” comes from Old French decimation, and directly from Late Latin decimationem (nominative decimatio) “the taking of a tenth.” A noun of action from past participle stem of Latin decimare “the removal or destruction of one-tenth,” from decem “ten.” The synonym for “decimation” is “devastate.” The antonym of “decimation” is  “construction.” “Decimation” is used in a sentence as a noun, the act of salvaging numbers of animals, plants, or people. An example sentence of “decimation” is “The decimation of the indigenous tribe is rampant during the ancient times.” 

23. Garrulous

The word “garrulous” means talking a lot, particularly about unimportant things. “Garrulous” comes from the Latin garrulus “talkative, chattering,” from garrire “to chatter.” It came from the PIE root gar – “to call, cry.” The synonym of “garrulous” is talkative. The antonym for the word “garrulous” is “concise.” “Garrulous” is used in a sentence as an adjective to describe someone having the habit of talking about a lot of unimportant things.  An example sentence of “garrulous” is “Our garrulous neighbor is busy gossiping again.” The word “garrulous” is among the most difficult English words. It is not a commonly used word daily. 

24. Hubris

The word “hubris” means an overbearing pride, or egotism. The history of the word ‘hubris” dates back to 1884, from the Greek word Hybris “wanton violence, insolence, outrage,” originally “presumption towards the gods. One synonym for “hubris” is  ‘arrogance.” The antonym of “hubris” is “modesty.” “Hubris” is used in a sentence as a noun, the act of being too proud. An example sentence of “hubris” is, “It is easy to offend people when blinded by hubris.” “Hubris” is one of the most difficult English words. It is not a common word encountered daily by many people. 

25. Dovetail

“Dovetail” means to connect precisely, or harmoniously. The history of “dovetail” dates back to the 1580s, dovetail, in carpentry, is “tenon cut in the form of a reverse wedge.” From the resemblance of shape in the tenon or mortise of the joints to that of the bird’s tail display. As a verb, “to unite by dovetail tenons.” The word “interlock” is synonymous with “dovetail.” The antonym for “dovetail” is “clash.”  Dovetail is used in a sentence as a verb to join or fit together. An example sentence of “dovetail” is “Many o the changes dovetail with work by the US and global regulators.”

26. Impetuous

The word “impetuous” means acting quickly without careful thought. The origin of “impetous” comes from late 14c, “hot-tempered”, late 15C., “done with a rush.”  It came from the Old French word impetuous, and from the Late Latin impetuous “impetuous, violent.” From Latin impetus “attack.” The synonym of “impetuous” is impulsive. The antonym of the word “impetuous” is cautious. “Impetuous” is used in a sentence as an adjective often applied to a lot of behavior, and to the person who displays that behavior. The word “impetuous” is commonly used for people and their actions. An example sentence of “impetuous” is “The newly crowned prince is known to be boastful, arrogant, and impetuous.”   

27. Circumlocution

“Circumlocution” means using numerous unnecessary words to convey an idea. The origin of the word “circumlocution” originates from the Latin circumlocutionem “a speaking around,” from circum “around, roundabout.” The synonym of “circumlocution” is “ambage.” The antonym of “circumlocution” is “directness.” ‘Circumlocution” is used in a sentence as a noun. The first known use of “circumlocution” dates back to 1518. An example sentence of the word “circumlocution” is “The author is trying to keep away from circumlocution in his writing.”

28. Surreptitious

The word “surreptitious” means to keep secret, an action done secretly. “Surreptitious” comes from mid-15c, from the Latin surrepticius, “stolen, furtive,” from surreptus, past participle of surripere “seize secretly, steal, plagiarize.”  The synonym of “surreptitious” is concealed. The antonym of “surreptitious” is open. “Surreptitious” is used in a sentence as an adjective to describe an action done secretly. The first known use of “surreptitious” was in the 15th century. An example sentence of ‘surreptitious” is “The popular singer made a superstitious entrance to the club through the little back door.”

29. Peripatetic

The word “peripatetic” means a follower of Aristotle, or an Aristotelan. “Peripatetic” comes from the mid-15th century. It comes from the word “Peripatetik”, “a disciple of Aristotle,” one of the sets of philosophers who followed the teachings of Aristotle. It came from Old French perypatetique from the 14th century. The synonym of the word “peripatetic” is nomadic. The antonym of “peripatetic” is settled. The word “peripatetic” is an adjective used in a sentence to describe a person traveling from place to place. An example sentence of “peripatetic” is “He worked as a peripatetic teacher for most of his life.”

30. Magisterial

“Magisterial” means relating to the characteristics of a master, or a teacher. “ Magisterial” originates from Medieval Latin magisterialis, “of or referring to the office of magistrate, director, or teacher.” The synonym of “magisterial’ is “authoritative.” The antonym of “magisterial” is “submissive.” “Magisterial” is an adjective used in a sentence relating to an authoritative person. The first known use of “magisterial” was in 1632. An example sentence of “magisterial” is “Our school principal spoke with a magisterial tone.”

31. Asperity 

The word “asperity” means harshness of behavior or speech that usually expresses anger. The origin of “asperity” comes from the 1200c, asprete “hardship,” from Old French asperité “difficulty, painful situation, harsh treatment” (12c., Modern French âpreté), a figurative use, from Latin asperitatem (nominative asperitas) “roughness,” from asper “rough, harsh,” which is of unknown origin. The Latin adjective was used for sour wine, bad weather, and hard times. The synonym of “asperity” is “roughness.” The antonym of “asperity” is “softness.” “Asperity” is a noun used in a sentence as a roughness of behavior. An example sentence of the word “asperity” is, “The child responded to her mother with a touch of asperity.”

32. Decry

“Decry” means to express strong disapproval. “Decry” comes from the French decrier “cry out, announce,” from the Latin quiritare “cry.” The synonym of the word “decry” is “criticize.” The antonym of “decry” is “applaud.” Decry demonstrates an open condemnation that makes it the best choice for cases in which criticism is not at all veiled. “Decry” is used in a sentence as a verb that shows belittling. An example sentence of “decry” is “The animal rights activists decry the country’s lack of animal rights law.” “Decry” is one of the most difficult words in English because it is not commonly used in daily conversations. 

33. Puerile

The word “puerile” means juvenile, immaturity, or childish. “Puerile” comes from the French  puéril, from the Latin puerilis “boyish, childish,” from puer “boy, child.” The synonym of “puerile” is “immature.” The antonym of “puerile” is “mature.” The first known use of the word “perile” dates back to 1527. The word “puerile” is used in a sentence as an adjective describing youth qualities, or immaturity. An example sentence of the word “perile” is, “Those teenage boys should not be tolerated for such puerile behavior.”

34. Incontrovertible

“Incontrovertible” means indisputable, or not open to queries. The first known use of “incontrovertible” was in 1646. “Incontrovertible” comes from the 1640s, from in “not” and controvert “oppose by argument.” The synonym of “incontrovertible” is “indisputable.” The antonym of “incontrovertible” is “disputable.” The antonyms controvertible and incontrovertible are both derivatives of the verb “controvert” (meaning “to dispute or oppose by reasoning”). “Incontrovertible” is used in a sentence as an adjective that describes something that is not open to questions. The first known use of “incontrovertible” was in 1646. An example sentence  of “incontrovertible” is “The jury was presented incontrovertible evidence during the trial.”

35. Inviolate

The meaning of “inviolate” is profaned, or not violated. The origin of word “inviolate” comes from the early 15c, from the Latin inviolatus “unhurt,” from in-” not, opposite of.” The synonym for “inviolate” is “sacred.” The antonym of “inviolate” is “profane.” The first known use of “inviolate” was in the 15th century.  “Inviolate” is used in a sentence as an adjective, especially to describe something pure. An example sentence of the word “inviolate” is, “The villagers were stunned to see the unearthed mummies in the cave are still inviolate.”

36. Puissant

“Puissant” means having great power, or influence. The history of the word “puisant” comes from the mid-15th century, “puissaunt” means influential, in a position of authority.” From the Old French puissant “strong, powerful.” From the stem of Old French poeir “to be able.” The synonym of “puissant” is “powerful.” The antonym of “puissant” is “flimsy.” The first known use of “puissant” was in the 15th century. “Puissant” is used in a sentence as an adjective to describe someone mighty and influential. An example sentence of the word “puissant” is, “The book was written by one o the nation’s respected authors and puissant advocates for human rights.”

37. Cosset

The word “cosset” means to care for, to pamper. “Cosset” comes from the Old English cot-sæta “one who dwells in a cot.” From a noun in the 1570s meaning “lamb brought up as a pet.” The synonym of the word “cosset” is “coddle.” The antonym of “cosset” is “neglect.” “Cosset” is used in a sentence as a verb to treat with extra care. The first known use of “cosset” was in 1579. An example sentence  of “cosset” is “The resort cossets its guests with hospitable service.” 

38. Eclectic

“Eclectic” means deriving ideas, or tastes, from a diverse range of sources. The origin of word “eclectic” comes from the French eclectique, from the Greek eklektikos “selective,” literally “picking out.” From eklektos.” The synonym of “eclectic” is “assorted.” The antonym of “eclectic” is “homogeneous.” “Eclectic” was used in a sentence as an adjective to describe something that is composed of elements from various sources. Eclectic was initially related to ancient philosophers who were not devoted to any sole system of philosophy, but instead chose whichever doctrines they liked from every school of thought. An example sentence of “eclectic” is, “The restaurant’s menu is so eclectic and includes various cuisine from all over the world.”

39. Iconoclast

“Iconoclast” means a person who attacks settled beliefs. The history of the word “iconoclast” date back to the 1590s, from French iconoclaste, and Medieval Latin iconoclastes, from Late Greek eikonoklastes, from eikon (genitive eikonos) “image” + latest “breaker.” The synonym of “iconoclast” is  “nonconformist.” The antonym of “iconoclast” is “conformist.” “Iocnoclast” is used in a sentence as a noun, pertaining to someone who attacks an institution or certain beliefs. An example sentence  of “iconoclast” is “Joseph was fired from his current job because he is an iconoclast.”

40. Anachronism

The word “anachronism” means the state of being chronologically out of place. “Anachrosnism” originated from the 1640s, “an error in computing time,” from Latin anachronismus, from Greek anakhronismos, and from anakhronizien “refers to wrong time.” It was derived from ana “against” + khronos “time.” The synonym of “anachronismus” is  “antique.” The antonym of “anachronism” is “modern.” “Anachronism is used in a sentence as a noun referring to an error in chronology. The first known use of “anachronism” was in 1617. An example sentence of the word “anachronism” is, “In many households, most family meals has become an anachronism.” 

41. Enormity

“Enormity” means the state of being monstrous, or immoderate. “Enormity” comes from Old French enormité “extravagance, heinous sin,” from Latin enormitatem (nominative enormity) “hugeness, vastness; irregularity.” From enormis “irregular, huge”, meaning “ultimate wickedness” in English attested from the 1560s.  “Enormity” is synonymous with the word “wickedness.” The antonym of “enormity” is  “kindness.” “Enormity” is used in a sentence as a noun pertaining to an outrageous act. Although “enormity” was used since the late 1700s to describe something having a large size, its usage continues to be disparaged by many language commentators. They argue that “enormity” must be reserved for senses related to “great wickedness.” An example sentence of “enormity” is “The police officer was shocked at the enormity of the crime.”  

42. Dolorous

The word “dolorous” means causing misery, or grief. The origin of “dolorous” comes from the Old French doloros “painful, sorrowful,” from Late Latin dolorosus “painful, sorrowful,” from Latin dolor “pain, grief.” During 1400, “dolorous” was linked to physical pain. At present, “dolor” is used in English, meaning “sorrow.” The synonym of “dolorous” is “afflicted.” The antonym of “dolorous’ is “happy.”  “Dolorous’ is used in a sentence as an adjective expressing grief or pain. The first known use of the word “dolorous” was in the 15th century. An example sentence of “dolorous” is, “You can see in his dolorous expression that he had suffered enough.” 

43. Solicitous

“Solicitous” means expressing solitude, or being full of concerns. The history of “solicitous” comes from the Latin Sollicitus “restless, unease, full of anxiety.” The word “sol” comes from the Proto-Indo-European root meaning “whole.” The synonym of “solicitous” is “attentive.” The antonym of “solicitous” is “thoughtless.” “Solicitous” is used in a sentence as an adjective that shows a full of concern or fear. The first known use of the word “solicitous” was in 1563. An example sentence of “solicitous” is “Mr. Antonio had always been solicitous for the welfare of his students.”

44. Impugn

“Impugn” means to oppose or attack as false or lacking integrity. The origin of the word “impugn” comes from the late 14th century, from Old French impugner, from Latin impugnare “to fight against,” In its earliest known English use in the 1300s, impugn refers to a physical attack. The synonym of “impugn” is “condemn.” The antonym of “impugn” is “defend.” The first known use of impugn” was in the 14th century. An example sentence of “impugn” is “The Governor leaked news of the arrest to the media to impugn his rival’s character.”

45. Despot

Despot means having unlimited power over other people. The first known use of the word “despot” was in 1604. It originated from Middle French despote, from Greek despotēs master, lord, autocrat, from des- (akin to domos house) + -potēs (akin to posis husband); akin to Sanskrit dampati lord of the house — more at. The synonym of “despot” is “dictator.” The antonym of “despot” is “democrat.” An example sentence of “despot” is, “She was a successful choreographer, but many of her students regarded her as a petty despot.” 

46. Splenetic

The word “splenetic” means showing or having a bad temper regularly. The history of “spelenetic” dates back to the e1540s. It comes from the Late Latin speleneticus, from spleen, meaning “irritable morose.”  The synonym of “splenetic” is “ill-tempered.” “Splenetic” is used in a sentence as an adjective to describe a bad temper.  The antonym of “splenetic” is “good-humored.” The first known use of “splenetic” was in 1697. An example sentence of “splenetic” is “The rude and splenetic expression was evident in his face.” 

47. Abrogate

“Abrogate” means to abolish by authoritative action. The word “abrogate” comes from the Latin abrogatus, the past participle of abrogare “to annul, repel (a law), from ab “off, away from.”  The synonym of “abrogate” is “abolish.” The antonym of “abrogate” is “institute.” “Abrogate” is used in a sentence as a verb that shows abolishing using an authoritative action. An example sentence of “abrogate” is  “The U.S. Congress can abrogate old treaties that are unfair to Native Americans.” 

48. Inveterate

The word “inveterate” means habitual or firmly established by long persistence. It comes from the Latin inveteratus “of long-standing, chronic, old,” past participle of inveterare “become old in.” From in- “in, into” (from PIE root en “in”) + verb from vetus (genitive veteris) “old” (veteran) which led to the Latin verb inveterare (“to age”). The verb, in turn, eventually gave rise to the adjective inveteratus, the direct source of the adjective inveterate (in use since the 14th century). “Inveterate” has meant “long-standing” or simply “old,” in the past. The first known use of “inverterate” dates back to the 15th century. “Inverterate” is used in a sentence as an adjective relating to a habit. An example sentence of “inveterate” is “He became an inveterate liar.” 

49. Officious

“Officious” means volunteering one’s services even when not needed. “Officious” comes from the Latin officiosus “full of courtesy, dutiful, obliging,” from officium “duty, service.” The synonym of officious is “impertinent.” The antonym of “officious” is “timid.” The word “officious is used in a sentence as an adjective to describe someone who always volunteers to help even when not needed. The first known use of “officious” was in the 15th century. An example sentence of “officious” is “Lory doesn’t like it when officious strangers try to start a conversation in the checkout line.”

50. Pillory

A “pillory” means a device used for punishing criminals, consisting of a wooden frame with holes in which the head and hands are locked. Having unlimited power over other people. The first known use of the word “despot” was in 1604. It originated from Middle French despote, from Greek despotēs master, lord, autocrat, from des- (akin to domos house) + -potēs (akin to posis husband); akin to Sanskrit dampati lord of the house — more at. “Pillory” is used in a sentence either as a noun or a verb. “Pillory” as a noun pertains to a device used for punishing offenders in public. The word “pillory” means to set in a pillory as punishment, as a verb. It is a wooden frame with holes for the head and hand. The first known use of “pillory” was in the 13th century. An example sentence of “pillory” is “He endured public humiliation in a pillory and was sent to jail.”

51. Abject

The word “abject” means existing in a very low state. “Abject” comes from Latin inveteratus “of long-standing, chronic, old,” past participle of inveterare “become old in,” from in- “in, into” (from PIE root en “in”) + verb from vetus (genitive veteris) “old” (veteran). Which led to the Latin verb inveterare (“to age”). The verb gave rise to the adjective inveteratus, the direct source of the adjective inveterate (in use since the 14th century). Inveterate was meant as “long-standing” or simply “old” in the past. The first known use of “abject” was in the 15th century. “Abject” is used in a sentence as an adjective showing hopelessness or cast down in spirit.  An example sentence  of the word “abject” is, “He was an abject teenager when his parents died.” 

52. Candor

“Candor” means honest, or sincere expression. The history of the word “candor” comes from the Latin candor “purity,” initially from “whiteness, radiance,” from candere “to shine, to be white.” It was borrowed earlier in English from the Latin literal sense of “extreme whiteness.” “Candor” is synonymous with the word “sincerity.” The antonym of “candor” is “dishonesty.” “Candor” is used in a sentence as a noun. An example sentence of the word “candor” is, “Our Leader must earn a reputation for candor, and integrity.” 

53. Cogent

“Cogent” means logical, appealing forcibly to the mind. The history of “cogent” comes from the French cogent “necessary, urgent,” from the Latin cogentem (nominative cogens), the present participle of cogere “to curdle, to compel.” The synonym of “cogent” is  “compelling.” The antonym of “cogent” is “uncompelling.” “Cohent” is used in a sentence as an adjective for incisive presentation. An example sentence of “cogent” is, “Usually her argument was cogent.”

54. Dearth

“Dearth” means an inadequate amount, especially food or scarcity. The origin of “dearth” comes from the abstract noun from the root of Old English deore “precious, costly” + abstract noun suffix -th. The synonym of “dearth” is “drought.” The antonym of “dearth” is “abundance.” Dearth, in one form or another, has been used to describe things that have been in short supply since at least the 13th century, when it often referred to a food shortage. The word “dearth” is used in a sentence as a noun, specifically relating to famine. An example sentence  of “dearth” is “There was a dearth of fresh fruits at the local grocery store.” 

55. Evanescent

The word “evanescent” means fleeting, or fading away. “Evanescent” comes from the French évanescent, from the Latin evanescentem (nominative evanescens), the present participle of evanescere “disappear, vanish, pass away.” “Evanescent” is synonymous with the word “passing.” The antonym of “evanescent” is “endless.” “Evanescent” is used in a sentence as an adjective to vanish like vapor. The first known use of “evanescent” was in 1717. An example sentence  of “evanescent” is “The newly crowned Miss Globe has a beauty that is evanescent as a rainbow.” 

56. Cognizant

“Cognizant” means having knowledge of something. The first known use of “cognizant” was in 1820. The word “cognizant” is linked to “cognizance,” which comes from Anglo-French conysance “recognition,” which later became “knowledge.” It comes from the Old French conoissance “acquaintance, recognition, knowledge.” “Cognizant” is synonymous with the word “conscious.” The antonym of “cognizant” is “insensible.” “Cognizant” is used in a sentence as an adjective for having knowledge of something. An example sentence of “cognizant” is, “It was only then that she seemed to become cognizant of her surroundings.”   

57. Futuous (Fatuous)

“Fatuous” means silly, or foolish.  The word “fatuous” comes from the Latin fatuus “foolish, silly, insipid,” which is of uncertain origin. The first known use of “fatuous” was in 1633. The synonym of “fatuous” is “foolish.” The antonym of “fatuous” is “intelligent.” “Fatuous” is used in a sentence as an adjective for being stupid. “Fatuous” is used in a sentence as an adjective to describe a foolish person. An example sentence of “fatuous” is, “Buying a house without negotiating down the price is a fatuous move.”

58. Mendacious

“Mendacious” means lying, or not telling the truth. The origin of the word “mendacious” comes from the French menacieux, directly from the Latin mendacium “a lie, falsehood, untruth, fiction.” The synonym for “mendacious” is “dishonest.” The antonym of “mendacious” is “honest.” “Mendacious” is used in a sentence as an adjective describing a person who tells a lie. The first known use of “mendacious” was in 1616. An example sentence of “mendacious” is, “A product claiming to help one get whiter skin instantly is mendacious advertising.”

59. Disparate

The word “disparate” means different in kind, or markedly distinct in quality. The origin of “disparate” comes from the Latin disparate, the past participle of disparate, which means “divide, separate,” from dis – “apart” + parare “get ready.” The meaning was influenced in Latin by dispar which means “unequal, unlike.” The word “disparate” is synonymous with the word “different.” The antonym of “disparate” is “alike.” “Disparate” is used in a sentence as an adjective showing differences in qualities or character. An example sentence of “disparate” is “The new student is having a hard time adapting to two disparate cultures.”

60. Ubiquitous

“Ubiquitous” means being everywhere or being found everywhere. The origin of word “ubiquitous”  comes from ubiquity + ous. The earlier word was Ubiquitary, from Modern Latin ubiquitous, from Latin ubique, “everywhere.” The synonym of “ubiquitous’ is “common.” The antonym of “ubiquitous” is “rare.” “Ubiquitous” is used in a sentence as an adjective describing something or someone that seems to be everywhere. “An example sentence of the word “ubiquitous” is “Sugar is ubiquitous in the dishes prepared.”  

61. Capitulate

The word “capitulate” means to surrender after negotiations. “Capitulate” comes from Medieval Latin capitulatus, the past participle of capitulare, “to draw up in heads or chapters,” and “arrange conditions.” The word “capitulate” was often used in terms of surrender. The synonym for “capitulate” is “give in.” The antonym of “capaitulate” is “resist.” “Capitulate” is used in a sentence as an intransitive verb to cease resisting. The first known use of “capitulate” was in 1596. An example sentence of “capitulate” is “The rebel group as forced to capitulate, and free their captives.” 

62. Divisive

“Divisive” means creating dissension, or tending to cause disagreement. The origin of “divisive” comes from the past participle stem of Latin dividere meaning “to divide.” The first known use of the word “divisive” dates back to 1642. The synonym of “divisive” is “disruptive.” The antonym of “divisive” is “agreement.” The word “divisive” is used in a sentence as an adjective creating disunity. An example sentence of “divisive” is “Selena made a divisivse move, and lost her friends in the process.”

63. Extant

“Extant” means currently existing, or surviving. The origin of word “extant” originated from the Latin extantem (nominative extans), the present participle of extare, which means “stand out, be visible, exist,” from ex “out” + stare “to stand.” The first known use of “extant” dates back to 1545. The synonym for “extant” is “alive.” The antonym of “extant” is “extinct.” “Extant” is used in a sentence as an adjective for still existing. An example sentence of “extant” is “One of the oldest buildings in our town is extant up to this day.”    

64. Fetter  

“Fetter” means a chain around the ankles or to restrain from motion. “Fetter” comes from the Old English fetor, which means “chain or shackle by which a person or an animal is bound by the feet,” figuratively meaning “check, restraint.” The synonym of “fetter” is “constraint.” The antonym of “fetter” is “unbind.”  The first known use of the word “fetter” dates back to the 12th century. “Fetter” is both a noun and a verb, depending on its usage in a sentence. As a verb, “fetter” is used to restrain the action. As a noun, “fetter” refers to the chain for the feet. An example sentence of “fetter” is, “I can still hear the sound of the jingling metal fetters on his feet.” 

65. Hegemony

“Hegemony” means domination or leadership. The origin of “hegemony” comes from the Greek hēgemonia “leadership, a going first.” Initially, it came from the predominance of one city or another in Greek history. The first known use of “hegemony” dates back to 1567. The synonym for “hegemony” is “dominance.” The antonym of “hegemony”  is “impotency.” “Hegemony” is used in a sentence as a noun referring to authority over others. An example sentence of “hegemony” is, “Rome succeeded to the hegemony o the Latin league.” 

66. Inoculate

 “Inoculate” is defined as giving a person or animal a vaccine. “Inoculate” originates from the Latin inoculatus, the past participle of inoculare “graft in, implant a bud.” It means to “implant germs of a disease to produce immunity.” “Inoculate” was then applied to other forms of engrafting, including establishing vaccines as a preventative against certain diseases. The first known use of “inoculate” dates back to 1721. “Inoculate” is synonymous with the word “infuse.” The antonym of “inoculate” is “eliminate.” The word “inoculate” is used in a sentence as a verb to introduce active material to treat a disease. An example sentence of “inoculate” is, “The doctor was able to inoculate people with a polio vaccine.”       

67. Linchpin

“Linchpin” means a locking pin inserted crosswise or a person vital to an enterprise. “ Linchpin” originates from the Middle English lins “axle.” It is a word of uncertain origin. The first known use of the word “linchpin” dates back to the 13th century. English speakers used “linchpin” for anything as critical to a complex situation as a linchpin was to a wagon in the early 20th century. The synonym for “linchpin” is “anchor.”  The antonym of ”linchpin” is “disallow.” “Linchpin” is used in a sentence as a noun. An example sentence of “linchpin” is “sales is the linchpin of almost any business.” 

68. Mores

“Mores” means the fixed moral binding of a certain group, an essential characteristic of a community, or social norms. “Mores” originates from the Latin mores, “customs, morals, or manners.” The synonym for “mores” is “etiquette.” The antonym of “mores” is “unconventional.” The first known use of “mores’ dates back to 1898.  “Mores” is used in a sentence as a plural noun, referring to more than one person or thing.  An example sentence of “mores” is “Their mother teaches them good manners, and social mores.”

69. Pariah

“Pariah” means a member of a low caste of Southern India, or an outcast. “Pariah” originates from the Portuguese paria or directly from Tamil (Dravidian) paraiyar, plural of paraiyan “drummer” (at festivals, the hereditary duty of members of the largest of the lower castes of southern India), from parai “large festival drum.” Pariah” is synonymous to the word “outcast.” The antonym of “pariah” is “insider.” “Pariah” is used in a sentence as a noun referring to an outcast. The first known use of “pariah” dates back to 1613. An example sentence of “pariah” is, “They discovered what it meant to be a pariah in their own country.” “Pariah” is among the difficult English words that are not used in daily conversations.

70. Reprobate

“Reprobate” means a depraved person. The word “reprobate” works in a sentence as a noun, verb, or adjective. The verb form of “reprobate” means to condemn strongly as evil. The adjective form of “reprobate” means morally corrupt. The noun form of “reprobate” means an unprincipled person. “Reprobate” comes from the early 15c., “rejected as worthless,” from Late Latin reprobatus. From the past participle of reprobare “disapprove, reject, condemn,” from Latin re- “back, again,” here perhaps indicating “opposite of, reversal of the previous condition” (see re-) + probare “prove to be worthy” (see probate (n.)). The meaning “abandoned in character, morally depraved, unprincipled” was by the 1650s. The original reprobates were hardened sinners who had fallen from God’s grace. In time, the name was used outside of religious contexts for anyone who behaved morally wrong. In Late Latin, reprobare means “to disapprove” or “to condemn.” An example sentence of “reprobate” is “A band of reprobate criminals was sentenced to death.” 

71. Worcestershire

Worcestershire is a savory vinegar, soy sauce, and spices sauce. It was originally made in England.  Worcestershire sauce is probably Worcestershire’s most well-known product. It was first produced in Worcester by two chemists, John Wheeley Lea and William Perrins, and they tried to sell it in 1837. It is still made in the city today, although the recipe’s origin remains a mystery. The first known use of the word “Worcestershire” dates back to 1843. It comes from Wireceastre (1086), Old English Wigranceastre (717), and Weogorna civitas (691), from Weogora, a tribal name. Worcestershire sauce (Lea & Perrin’s) is attested from 1843. “Worcestershire” is used in a sentence as a noun, a sauce whose ingredients are composed of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices. An example sentence of “Worcestershire” is, “Add oil, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.”

72. Onomatopoeia

“Onomatopoeia” originates from the Late Latin onomatopoeia, from Greek onomatopoiia “the making of a name or word” (in imitation of a sound associated with the thing being named). From onomatopoios, from onoma (genitive onomatos) “word, the name” (from PIE root no-men- “name”) + a derivative of poiein “compose, make” (see poet). English speakers have started to use the word onomatopoeia since the mid-1500s, but people have been creating words from the sounds heard around them for much longer. The language’s presence of many imitative words generated the linguistic bow-wow theory, which suggests that language originated in imitation of natural sounds. “Onomatopeia” is used in a sentence as a noun for the naming of a thing based on its vocal imitation. An example sentence of “onomatopeia” is “There is an element of onomatopoeia in the phrase.”

73. Sesquipedalian

“Sesquipedalian” means having several syllables. The word “sesquipedalian” comes from Latin sesquipedalia “a foot-and-a-half long.” The first known use of the word “sesquipedalian” was in 1656. The synonym of “sesquipedalian” is “polysyllable.” The antonym of “sesquipedalian” is “monosyllabic.” “Sesquipedalian” is used in a sentence as an adjective, given to the use of long words. An example sentence of “sesquipedalian” is, “She thought that using many sesquipedalian phrases would make her look smarter.”     

What are the Reasons for Existing Difficult Words in English?

Difficult English words exist because some people want to use words that are descriptive as possible when expressing themselves. English is widely recognized by many. However, there are still English words that are difficult to understand. Not all recognize and are familiar with these difficult English words. Difficult English words are sometimes used to express the exact message a writer wants to convey to their readers. Certain words have distinct meanings that deliver a solid and impactful message when used in a sentence. Difficult English words are not typically used in a person’s daily living. Aside from the difficulty in meaning, most difficult words are hard to spell too. Words are constantly evolving, there are new modern words nowadays that the older generations are unfamiliar with. Difficult English words only show how diverse it is. Words are not only restricted geographically and socially. They are often limited to speaking and writing styles, making them difficult.     

How to Determine Difficult Words in English?

Difficult English words sometimes appear in a sentence, and people find it hard to know their meaning initially. Several difficult words in English are not familiar and are used daily. Create a learning system first to determine difficult words in English. Using a learning system that fits one’s capability. Learning systems are a person’s method of understanding, memorizing, and applying difficult English words. Second, define the goal. A person is learning these tricky words in English for studies, work, or effective communication. One must identify the reasons for learning these difficult words to set a goal. Third, know how to pronounce difficult words correctly. Every word has its way of being said. One has to ensure to listen to the word clearly to pronounce it correctly and efficiently. Know the syllables of every word. Repeated word dividing allows one to pronounce the word quickly. Fourth, find the synonyms of the difficult word. Put a difficult English word in a sentence, replace it with one of its synonyms, then do it again. Notice that difficult words are easier to understand. Lastly, apply the learnings. Use difficult English words in daily conversations. Familiarization in that way becomes easier. Use them in writing school essays, and reports. Learning difficult English words is retained in a person’s memory when used daily, like easy English words.    

How do Content Writers use Difficult English Words?

Content writers use difficult English words effectively. However, a content writer’s biggest challenge is the English language’s enormous vocabulary. English has borrowed several words from other languages, greatly widening its vocabulary. Content writers use difficult English words on almost any kind of topic. Difficult English words are not very common and are not always used in a sentence. A writer must know the basic rules when it comes to grammar in content writing. Not only is proper grammar practiced by content writers, even the choice of words matters. Common and easy words in English make one’s writing appear ordinary and common. The content writer uses difficult English words to clarify the subject or give extra subject information. Using difficult English words means that sensory verbs like appears, look, smell, sound, or taste function as difficult English words when describing a subject. Difficult English words, when utilized properly in a sentence, make the content unique, and distinct. One of the most effective ways content writers do to expand their vocabulary is through reading. Viewing words in the context of books, articles, and conversations help them understand and figure out the meaning of words that are not familiar to them. Reading is a major part of their writing process, although writing is what content writers usually do. Content writers always use appropriate and grammatically correct words, which is very important in Content Writing. 

Do English Difficult Words Affect SEO and UX?

Yes, difficult English words affect SEO and UX. Understanding the meaning of a difficult word takes a lot of time, and learning. Choices of words are significant in communicating better. Imagine reading a book, and the author uses difficult words in every sentence; it annoys most readers. One must have to look first at the meaning in the dictionary to understand what is being written in the book. Difficult words impact the user experience of a reader because one needs to learn first the meaning of the difficult word to understand a sentence entirely. Compared to easy words used in daily conversations, difficult English words must be processed in our brains first. However, difficult English words are essential in improving one’s vocabulary. It improves one’s way of communication, and it serves as a second language. Having a vast vocabulary is helpful, too, especially at work, as it gives the impression that a person is knowledgeable. Using words that are easy to understand is essential, in whatever aspect. The same thing goes for SEO. Informative, and valuable content helps a website rank better. Consistent use of keywords, and quality content.     

Do Difficult English Words affect User Experience?

Yes, difficult English words influence user experience. Users need clarification when certain words appear, and they need help understanding them. Not only are these words not usually seen in daily conversations, but their meaning is quite hard to remember. A word is considered to be easy when it is used regularly. One gets to be familiar with a particular word, which is always present in magazines, books, and other forms of writing. Imagine a reader encountering an unfamiliar and challenging word in a sentence. It interrupts their reading because the reader needs help understanding the difficult English word. One has to look up a dictionary to know the meaning of a difficult word. Every word is deliberate and purposeful. Each word creates an impact. Good word choices make it easy to communicate. Users are able to understand clearly if a word is familiar and understandable. Words are potent symbols capable of evocative expression, categorization, and conceptualization, and it makes sense that they impact the user experience.    

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50 Difficult Words With Meaning in English: Well, we all have at least once gone through the examinations where an enhanced vocabulary plays a vital role. Even in prominent examinations like TOEFL and others, this is something that matters a lot, and this is a significant reason behind understanding and learning some difficult words with their meanings. But have you ever given it much focus and practiced enough for the same?

Vocabulary List provided helps in the competitive examinations and also in various stages of life. This article on 50 difficult words with their meanings is essential for better preparation for the students as well as for the adults. Experts precisely curate this article to help serve various needs. Read on 50 Difficult Words with Meanings for Class 4, 5, Different English Words With meanings and sentences.

Also, Read: Non-Technical Topics for Group Discussions

50 Difficult Words With Meanings, Pronunciation and Sentences

Here is the List of Hard Words and Meanings in English. Improve your Vocabulary and also how to Pronounce the most difficult words provided. Most of the Words which we use while interacting are synonyms and we never use them. However, they will be quite useful when you face any competitive exams. Good Vocabulary will always take you ahead in life. Below List of 50 Most Difficult Words and Meanings carefully organized will enhance your English Vocabulary for sure.

1. Abnegation 

Pronounced as /abnɪˈɡeɪʃ(ə)n/.

Meaning – Renouncing any belief or doctrine.

Example – I have a strong belief in the abnegation of religions and cultures.

2. Aggrandize 

Pronounced as /əˈɡrandʌɪz/

Meaning – An enhanced wealth, status or power

Example – This act intended to aggrandize the British community.

3. Alacrity

Pronounced as /əˈlakrɪti/

Meaning – Eagerness

Example – He is too influenced by her that he accepted the invitation with alacrity.

4. Anachronistic

Pronounced as /ənakrəˈnɪstɪk/

Meaning – Chronologically misplaced

Example – He rebels with his parents, and it seems that he is against society’s anachronistic moralities.

5. Archetypal

Pronounced as /ˌɑːkɪˈtʌɪp(ə)l/

Meaning – quintessential of a specific kind

Example – He is the country’s archetypal doctor.

6. Ascetic

Pronounced as /əˈsɛtɪk/

Meaning – A person who practices self-denial as a part of spiritual discipline

Example – She recently adopted an ascetic life of fasting, prayer, and manual labour after watching some influential sessions.

7. Beguile

Pronounced as /bɪˈɡʌɪl/

Meaning – Influencing someone in a deceptive manner

Example – He succeeds to beguile the voters with his charming personality along with the good agendas.

8. Blandishment

Pronounced as /ˈblandɪʃm(ə)nt/

Meaning – Intentional flattery for persuasion

Example – He does not seem any stranger to blandishments.

9. Cajole

Pronounced as /kəˈdʒəʊl/

Meaning – Persuade by flattery or coaxing

Example – He hoped that he might succeed to cajole her into giving up her book.

10. Callous

Pronounced as (/ˈkaləs/

Meaning – Cruel disregard for others

Example – His callous statements can scare anyone off and made them shiver.

11. Camaraderie

Pronounced as /kaməˈrɑːd(ə)ri/

Meaning – A sense of solidarity that arises out of sociability and familiarity

Example – All my friends admire the camaraderie of military life.

12. Circumlocution

Pronounced as /ˌsəːkəmləˈkjuːʃ(ə)n/

Meaning – Unnecessary usage of more words to express something

Example – The politicians deliberately use circumlocution for influencing the public to vote for them.

13. Clamor

Pronounced as /ˈklamə/

Meaning – Proclaiming something noisily

Example – The questions turned to a clamour in the parliament meeting.

14. Cognizant

Pronounced as /ˈkɒ(ɡ)nɪz(ə)nt/

Meaning – Awareness or realization

Example – One must be cognizant of the legal boundaries while taking any action or starting any business.

15. Construe

Pronounced as /kənˈstruː/

Meaning – Interpreting or assigning a meaning

Example – None of his words ever construes like an apology, even if he tries harder.

16. Convivial

Pronounced as /kənˈvɪvɪəl/

Meaning – An enjoyable atmosphere or a jovial company

Example – The party that I attended last night turned out to be a convivial one; thus, I had a perfect time.

17. Demagogue

Pronounced as /ˈdɛməɡɒɡ/

Meaning – A political leader who makes use of rhetoric to appeal to the desires of the citizens

Example – The current PM is a demagogue who always succeeds in manipulating the press.

18. Denigrate

Pronounced as /ˈdɛnɪɡreɪt/

Meaning – Criticize someone unfairly

Example – Several people denigrate their nation due to some petty issues.

19. Didactic

Pronounced as /dɪˈdaktɪk/

Meaning – Instructive with some moral intent

Example – Most of the novels exposing social injustice are highly didactic.

20. Disparate

Pronounced as /ˈdɪsp(ə)rət/

Meaning – Belonging to a distinct kind

Example – My phone storage has a disparate list of songs from various singers and producers.

21. Eclectic

Pronounced as /ɪˈklɛktɪk/

Meaning – Deriving the best ideas and styles from diverse sources

Example – The museum had an eclectic collection of antiques and ancient scriptures; thus, visiting it is highly fascinating.

22. Egregious

Pronounced as /ɪˈɡriːdʒəs/

Meaning – Shocking or outrageously bad

Example – Any statesman showing such behavior is an egregious act.

23. Embezzlement

Pronounced as /ɛmˈbɛzlm(ə)nt/

Meaning – misappropriation of funds

Example – The Company’s previous finance head got fired after being charged for fraud and embezzlement.

24. Enervate

Pronounced as /ˈɛnəveɪt/

Meaning – Lacking in vitality or morally drained

Example – Due to the hot sunny day, she enervated and fainted.

25. Ephemeral

Pronounced as /ɪˈfɛm(ə)r(ə)l/

Meaning – Lasting for a short period

Example – This is an ephemeral plant that brings immense beauty to the surrounding.

List of 50 Difficult Words With Meanings

26. Equanimity

Pronounced as /ˌɛkwəˈnɪmɪti/

Meaning – Maintaining composure when stressful

Example – He was highly admired due to gentler behavior with sufficient equanimity.

27. Fatuous

Pronounced as /ˈfatjʊəs/

Meaning – Lacking intelligence or silly

Example – Her actions seem fatuous many times.

28. Gratuitous

Pronounced as /ɡrəˈtjuːɪtəs/

Meaning – Uncalled for or unwarranted

Example – A 24 –year-old working woman reported gratuitous violence in the office.

29. Iconoclast

Pronounced as /ʌɪˈkɒnəklast/

Meaning – Someone who criticizes or attacks cherished ideas and beliefs of people

Example – He broke into the church with an iconoclast mob and planted reformation in the city.

30. Idiosyncratic

Pronounced as /ˌɪdɪə(ʊ)sɪŋˈkratɪk/

Meaning – Something peculiar to an individual

Example – Tesla’s new car model seems idiosyncratic to the older ones.

31. Incumbent

Pronounced as /ɪnˈkʌmb(ə)nt/

Meaning – Someone who holds a position

Example – To run the congress, one must beat the incumbent first.

32. Inveterate

Pronounced as /ɪnˈvɛt(ə)rət/

Meaning – Habitual

Example – She is an inveterate gossip lover.

33. Libertarian

Pronounced as /ˌlɪbəˈtɛːrɪən/

Meaning – someone who advocates civil liberty

Example – A libertarian seeks to ensure political freedom and maximize it for various benefits.

34. Licentious

Pronounced as /lʌɪˈsɛnʃəs/

Meaning – Someone who is promiscuous

Example – He was a mean ruler who exhibited licentious behaviour.

35. Mendacious

Pronounced as /mɛnˈdeɪʃəs/

Meaning – Deceitful

Example – Instead of giving many mendacious stories, one must try to be honest for once.

36. Multifarious

Pronounced as /ˌmʌltɪˈfɛːrɪəs/

Meaning – Multifaceted or diverse

Example – This is a fantastic university with multifarious study and learning options.

37. Obdurate

Pronounced as /ˈɒbdjʊrət/

Meaning – Being stubborn and refusing to change the opinion

Example – We argued for an hour, but he was obdurate in his belief.

38. Ostracism

Pronounced as /ˈɒstrəsɪz(ə)m/

Meaning – Excluding a person or some group from the society by majority consent

Example – After his shameful crime, his entire family suffered Ostracism from the village.

39. Pejorative

Pronounced as /pɪˈdʒɒrətɪv/

Meaning – Showing disapproval

Example – Most of his words were pejorative.

40. Pertinacious

Pronounced as /ˌpəːtɪˈneɪʃəs/

Meaning – Someone who is stubbornly unyielding

Example – The pertinacious little girl kept trying to sell cookies to a toothless man.

41. Phlegmatic

Pronounced as /flɛɡˈmatɪk/

Meaning – Expressing little or no emotion

Example – In earlier days, many phlegmatic British members ruled over India.

42. Promulgate

Pronounced as /ˈprɒm(ə)lɡeɪt/

Meaning – Broadcast or announce

Example – This is an urgent notice thus is promulgated instantly all across the institute.

43. Quotidian

Pronounced as /kwɒˈtɪdɪən/

Meaning – Something that occurs daily

Example – For the owners of pet dogs, taking them to a walk becomes a quotidian event.

44. Recalcitrant

Pronounced as /rɪˈkalsɪtr(ə)nt/

Meaning – Resistant to authority

Example – A group of some recalcitrant fifteen-year-olds indulged in rash driving.

45. Sanctimonious

Pronounced as /ˌsaŋ(k)tɪˈməʊnɪəs/

Meaning – Exhibiting moral superiority

Example – Rubina is known to reflect a sanctimonious personality in the show.

46. Solipsism

Pronounced as /ˈsɒlɪpsɪz(ə)m/

Meaning – Quality of being selfish and self-centred

Example – In the modern era, society is full of people with a solipsism mentality.

47. Travesty

Pronounced as /ˈtravɪsti/

Meaning – Distorting facts or imitation

Example – Michael travestied his family in his plays for his selfish causes.

48. Ubiquitous

Pronounced as /juːˈbɪkwɪtəs/

Meaning – Omnipresent or existing everywhere

Example – God has a ubiquitous influence in the entire world.

49. Vicissitude

Pronounced as /vɪˈsɪsɪtjuːd/

Meaning – An unwelcome or unpleasant change in circumstances or fortune

Example – Even after having many vicissitudes in life, nothing could stop him from being the CEO of a prominent MNC and gaining success in life.

50. Vociferous

Pronounced as /və(ʊ)ˈsɪf(ə)rəs/

Meaning – Something or someone who is offensively/ conspicuously loud.

Example – He was known to be a vociferous opponent of the takeover.

Importance of Learning 50 Difficult English Words

There are many difficult words in every language, especially in English, that are unknown to even many of the native speakers of the language. These words are troublesome and are very problematic in various instances. Thus, getting hold of such words becomes a difficult task and is significantly more difficult for the ones preparing for any competitive examination. As the students ease some more contemporary techniques for learning and understanding the difficult words with their meanings, and thus it gets easier for them to have a better vocabulary.

For all the people wishing to pursue an education in foreign universities or clearing some prominent entrance examinations, it is essential to fare well in the verbal ability section. For that, it is necessary to have a good grasp of vocabulary. The list of 50 difficult words with their meanings is beneficial for all the students as well as the adults.

Conclusion

We wish the data shed regarding the 50 Difficult Words with Meanings has enlightened you. If you have any queries feel free to reach us and we can get back to you with possible help. For more such topics of English Grammar do Bookmark our site to avail latest updates in no time.

50 most diificult words in english language and their meaning

Everyone has to be attached, these words are ubiquitous and
inevitable in every writing.

Do you read and read all through, without having an encounter with writing potholes, the difficult words? Well, maybe it could be some social media random posts that don’t go beyond 5- 6 sentences.

Difficult words are ubiquitous and inevitable in writing. Therefore, everyone has to adapt to them.

To lessen the reading stress of checking the dictionary from time to time, I have compiled 50 words I chose and reasoned to be difficult which you may come across anytime soon. Here are the: 

Boulevard

A broad,
well-paved, and landscaped thoroughfare.

Hegemony

Domination,
influence, or authority over another.

Ameliorate

To make better, or improve something perceived to be in a
negative condition.

Debauch

To involve in immoral acts such as alcohol; to morally
corrupt

Subaltern

A subordinate; is someone of a lower rank or position; to be
inferior or secondary.

Twaddle

A silly idle talk or writing; nonsense, rubbish.

Reek

A strong, unpleasant smell; to have an unpleasant smell.

Regent

One who rules in place of a monarch, especially because the
monarch is too young or disabled. 

Knell

To ring a bell slowly, especially for a funeral; to summon by
ringing a bell

Mauve

A pale purple or violet color

Disparate

Composed of inherently different or distinct elements.

Ostentatious

When someone intends to attract notice

Laconic

Using as few words as possible, concise.

Travesty

An appalling version of something; a stylistic imitation
like a parody.

Inebriated

Behaving as though affected by alcohol

Languid

Lacking enthusiasm, energy, or strength.

Poise

A state of balance, equilibrium, and stability.

Anachronistic

Erroneous in date, not applicable to or not appropriate for
the time.

Circumlocution

The use of more words than necessary to express an idea.

Iconoclast

One who destroys religious images or icons

Quintessence

A thing that is the most perfect example of its type; the most
perfect embodiment of something; epitome, prototype.

Obdurate

An act of being stubbornly persistent, generally in wrongdoing

Vociferous

Making or characterized by a noisy outcry; clamorous

Beguile

To deceive or delude; to charm, delight, or captivate.

Ascetic

Rigorous self-denial or self-discipline.

Abnegation

A denial of desire or self-interest

Palpitated

To beat strongly or rapidly

Inert

Unable to move or act; inanimate.

Pervert

To be dishonest; someone whose sexual habit is not
considered acceptable; to turn to another way

Vilify

To speak ill of someone; to belittle through speech

Murky

Hard to see through, gloomy

Exorcise

To drive out an evil spirit from a person or thing, especially by an incantation or prayer.

Fracas

A noisy, disorderly quarrel, fight, brawl, disturbance.

Filigree

To decorate an interior space as a house, room, or office.

Turquoise

A sky blue, greenish-blue color

Sepulchral

Relating to a grave or death; funeral

Frolic

Merry, joyous, full of playful mischief

Arabesque

An elaborate, ornate creations

Avalanche

A sudden great irresistible descent or influx; a barrage

Demented

Insane or mentally ill

Sheer

Very thin or transparent; unadulterated and unmixed

Aura

A distinctive atmosphere or quality is associated with something.

Ravenous

To be very hungry; grasping and having a strong desire for
something

Gargantuan

Huge, immense, and tremendous

Abyss

An impending catastrophic happening; chaos.

Jolt

To push or shake abruptly or roughly; to shock someone into
taking action or being alert.

Convalescence

Gradually healing after illness or injury

Fret

To be chaffed or irritated; too angry or vexed

Perfidy

Act of violating faith or allegiance; violation of a promise
or vow; faithlessness; treachery.

Abeyance

Expectancy; condition of ownership of the real property being
undetermined.

Which of these words have you had contact with before reading this article? I’m sure you can’t remember more than 20 words without consulting a dictionary (smiles).

At this point, read them again, master them, and use them in your sentences. Note that there is no way you will not come across difficult words like these in articles you read. However, apart from looking at the dictionary from time to time to check the meaning of difficult words when you come across them, you can use Grammarly. 

When you have Grammarly installed on your phone, the app will automatically list the different meanings of a word that you click on for you. Take a look at the picture below, for example.

As you can see, in the sentence in the image above, I clicked on the word «hegemony» and, down below, Grammarly helped me find other words for hegemony, which are sovereignty, domination, supremacy, and more. So, this will help you understand difficult words easily. You can click here to sign up and install Grammarly. Good luck with your writing! 

Want to improve in your essay writing? Read the posts below. 

Do you need any writing or academic assistance? Contact us now! 

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