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.

abject  
a. being of the most miserable kind; wretched; lacking pride; brought low in condition or status
On the streets of New York, the homeless live in abject poverty, huddling in doorways to find shelter from the wind.
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abolition  
n. ending; act of abolishing; act of doing away with
In particular, the economists say that the proposed abolition of taxes on dividends is not credible as a short-term stimulus.
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abrasive  
a. rubbing away; tending to grind down
The ash can also cause long-term abrasive damage to planes that could lead to later disasters if not dealt with.
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absenteeism  
n. habitual not to appear, especially for work or other regular duty
But absenteeism has become a big problem in Britain, where the employment laws offer protection to sick workers.
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absolution  
n. act of absolving or the state of being absolved; formal remission of sin imparted by a priest
Nor do I mean someone I must find to gain absolution from sin.
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absorb  
v. assimilate or incorporate; suck or drink up; occupy full attention
By contrast, what students can absorb from a one-day visit to a college are the tangibles.
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