4000 CAE Vocabulary List

Preparing vocabulary for the CAE (C1, Cambridge Advanced) test is a smart move! Since vocabulary plays a huge role in all parts of the exam (Reading, Use of English, Writing, Listening, and Speaking), here’s a focused vocabulary to help you build and remember the right words effectively.

In addition to the vocabulary, we also provide online tools and exercises to support your studies, along with helpful tips and printable materials.

We organize these 4000 words into 14 groups. Group one is open to all visitors. The rest of the groups are only fully accessible to VIP users.

antiquated  
a. too old to be fashionable, suitable, or useful; obsolete; aged
We are tolerably conversant with the early English poets; and can discover no resemblance whatever, except in antiquated spelling and a few obsolete words.
Show examples and contexts  

anxious  
a. eager; keen; worried; uneasy, and apprehensive about an uncertain event or matter
It was the last remark that had made the whole party look so grave and anxious.
Show examples and contexts  

ape  
v. imitate; mimic, as an ape imitates human actions
You will be suspended for a week if you ape the principal in front of the whole school like Tom.
Show examples and contexts  

apology  
n. acknowledgment expressing regret or asking pardon for a fault or offense; explanation or excuse
The consequence of those measures will be the best apology for my conduct.
Show examples and contexts  

apparatus  
n. a group of parts that work together to perform a given function; appliance, or device for a particular purpose
When the apparatus is at work, this gas becomes luminous, giving out a white and continuous light.
Show examples and contexts  

appeal  
n. attraction; charm; attract; fascinate; challenge
Oxfam is making a big appeal for humanitarian aid to Darfur and neighboring Chad, where millions of people have been made homeless by fighting.
Show examples and contexts