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.

accretion  
n. growth or increase in size by gradual external addition, fusion, or inclusion
The accretion of wealth marked the family's rise in power.
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accumulate  
v. pile up; collect;  mount up; increase
The tendency of Capital to accumulate is a big threat to the free market.
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acerbity  
n. the bitterness of speech and temper; sourness or acidness of taste, character, or tone
The meeting of the United Nations General Assembly was marked with such acerbity that informed sources held out little hope of reaching any useful settlement of the problem.
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acidulous  
a. slightly sour in taste or manner; sharp; caustic
James was unpopular because of his sarcastic and acidulous remarks.
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acoustics  
n. science of sound; the quality that makes a room easy or hard to hear in
Music lovers like Carnegie Hall because of its fine acoustics.
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acquisition  
n. act of contracting or assuming or acquiring possession of something
It has received an unsolicited, 15 dollar a share acquisition proposal from partners.
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