Learn Advanced Vocabulary: GRE Words (C2+)

Would you like to speak more sophisticated  English? I'm Jennifer from English with Jennifer.  

Strong vocabulary empowers us to articulate our  ideas, and there's always more to learn...even  

for native speakers. But be mindful. Low frequency  vocabulary tends to be more formal, so it's not  

always appropriate to use these words in everyday  conversation. I mean you tell me. Which sounds  

more natural for conversation? He's a really nice  guy. He possesses a genuinely affable nature.

So, should you learn C2 words in  beyond like "affable"? Yes. Well-read,  

articulate English speakers know this word and  use it appropriately. It's also a GRE word.

Some graduate schools in the US require  the GRE, The Graduate Record Examination.  

GRE words are generally more formal and  academic. Let's take a close look at three  

words that commonly appear on GRE word  lists. I'll make sure you understand them  

and can use them. First word: bolster. For you  personally, what helps bolster your confidence?

Positive affirmations like, "You can do it!"

Praise from a teacher, coach, or someone else?

Recalling past successes.

So, can you understand the meaning of this verb  

from context? What other words are  similar to "bolster"? Take a look.

[Music]

"To bolster" something means to  make it better in some way. Note  

that "bolster" takes an object. We can  talk about bolstering confidence. So,  

go back to that first question. What's  your answer? What bolsters your confidence?

Question two. What might a marketing  company promise to bolster?

A company's image or sales.

Question three. How can a company bolster consumer  

trust? Feel free to answer  this one in the comments.

The second word: waver. When  presented with a choice,  

are you decisive or do you tend to waver?  Choose. I make my mind up quickly. I'm  

might change my mind last minute.  I need lots of time to choose. So,  

do you understand the meaning of this verb from  context? Which other words are similar to "waver"?

"To waver" means to become uncertain or weak.  It can also mean that one cannot decide. "Waver"  

doesn't take an object, but there are some common  patterns with prepositions. Waver between two  

choices. Waver over a decision. Waver from a goal.  Waver in support or in one's position. So, go  

back to question four now. When presented with a  choice, are you decisive or do you tend to waver?

Note two adjectives based on this verb: wavering,  unwavering -- as in changing and unchanging.  

"Unwavering" means solid and steady. Question  five. Whose unwavering support do you appreciate?  

Tell me in the comments.

Here's another question you can answer. Instead  

of wavering from a goal, what  can you do to follow through?

The third word: fervid. Have you ever felt a  fervid desire to travel? Choose your response.

Not at all. It's home sweet home for me.

All the time. Buy me a plane ticket!

Sure. Once or twice in my life.

So, do you understand the meaning of this word  from context? Which words are similar to "fervid"?

"Fervid" is an adjective meaning "strong and  passionate." So, go back to that last question  

now. Have you ever felt the fervid desire to  travel? What else could be described as fervid?

Fans, supporters, a speech.

Are you a fervid fan of anyone? Tell me in the  

comments. Let's review. Match  the words to their meanings.

Bolster: increase, improve, strengthen.

Waver: change, weaken, become uncertain.

Fervid: strong and passionate.

Okay. Final challenge. Complete my sentences.  Say the first idea that comes to mind. Ready?

A good leader can bolster  team morale by doing...what?

I never waver in my decision when it comes to...

I'm a fervent supporter of...

Go back and review as needed. We'll end here.  Please like and share the video if you found the  

lesson useful. And if you'd like to learn  more vocabulary with me, consider joining  

me on Patreon, where we work on all skills. As  always, thanks for watching and happy studies!