Confusing Verbs for ELL Students

Which verb means "to formally give up a position or responsibility"?

• Reside

• Resign

• Recite

• Rescind

What is the definition of the verb "to exacerbate"?

• To improve a situation

• To make a situation worse

• To explain in detail

• To eliminate completely

Which verb means "to officially cancel or repeal a law or agreement"?

• Rescind

• Recede

• Refrain

• Retain

What does the verb "to oscillate" mean?

• To remain still

• To move or swing back and forth

• To increase steadily

• To decrease rapidly

Which verb means "to make something less severe or serious"?

• Aggravate

• Mitigate

• Obliterate

• Complicate

What is the definition of the verb "to juxtapose"?

• To place side by side for comparison

• To separate into different parts

• To combine into one

• To ignore completely

Which verb means "to express disapproval or disappointment"?

• Commend

• Reproach

• Celebrate

• Endorse

Which verb means "to formally accuse someone of a crime"?

• Exonerate

• Indict

• Acquit

• Pardon

What is the definition of the verb "to exacerbate"?

• To alleviate pain

• To worsen a condition

• To heal completely

• To ignore symptoms

Which verb means "to make a situation or problem worse"?

• Alleviate

• Exacerbate

• Mitigate

• Ameliorate