4000 CPE Vocabulary List

Preparing vocabulary for the CPE (C2, Cambridge Proficiency) 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.

attenuate  
v. make slender, fine, or small; weaken; lessen the density of
By withdrawing their forces, the generals hoped to attenuate the enemy lines.
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attraction  
n. appeal; a characteristic that provides pleasure and attracts
Harriet died peacefully in her enclosure at a zoo in northern Australia, where she was the star attraction.
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attribute  
n. essential quality; reputation; honor
His outstanding attribute was his kindness.
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attrition  
n. a gradual decrease in numbers; reduction in the workforce without firing employees; wearing away through harassment
In the 1960s, urban churches suffered from attrition as members moved from the cities to the suburbs.
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audacious  
a. fearlessly, often recklessly daring; bold
Audiences cheered as Luke Skywalker and Princess Leia made their audacious, death-defying leap to freedom, escaping Darth Vader's troops.
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auditory  
a. of or relating to hearing, the organs of hearing, or the sense of hearing
Short-term auditory memory, in particular, doesn't seem to last longer than around 10 seconds.
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