500 Essential Words for TOEFL

This 500 Essential TOEFL Word list is based on Barron's Essential Words for the TOEFL. The list is organized in several TOEFL common topics. It's especially useful for TOEFL test takers.

500 words / 30 topics

Pack 1

Pack 2

Pack 3

Pack 4

Pack 5

Pack 6

Pack 7

Pack 8

Pack 9

Pack 10

Pack 11

Pack 12

Pack 13

Pack 14

Pack 15

Pack 16

Pack 17

Pack 18

Pack 19

Pack 20

Pack 21

Pack 22

Pack 23

Pack 24

Pack 25

Pack 26

Pack 27

Pack 28

Pack 29

Pack 30

Add multiple words

abroad

Definition

in or to a foreign country or countries

They used to go abroad every summer.

Translated by Google

abrupt

Definition

sudden and not expected, often with unpleasant results

There was an abrupt change in her mood.

Translated by Google

acceptable

Definition

satisfactory; good enough

An offer that is acceptable to the union leaders might still be voted down by the union members.

Translated by Google

acclaim

Definition

enthusiastic approval and praise

Despite critical acclaim, the TV show always ran third in the ratings.

Translated by Google

actually

Definition

used to say that something is true, esp. when the true situation may not be known

We actually had a hard time moving the sofa.

Translated by Google

adverse

Definition

going against something, or causing harm

Her policies may have adverse effects on the economy.

Translated by Google

advice

Definition

an opinion that someone offers you about what you should do or how you should act in a particular situation

I think I’ll take your advice and go home.

Translated by Google

attractive

Definition

causing interest or pleasure

One of the less attractive features of California is the threat of earthquakes.

Translated by Google

autonomous

Definition

independent and having the power to make your own decisions

"This country is divided into two autonomous states."

Translated by Google

chronic

Definition

(esp. of a disease or something bad) continuing for a long time

Mr. George is resigning because of chronic heart disease.

Translated by Google

disapproval

Definition

the expression or feeling that something done or said is wrong

He decided to marry her, to the great disapproval of his father.

Translated by Google

disruptive

Definition

tending to damage the orderly control of a situation

The teacher said disruptive behavior would not be tolerated.

Translated by Google

haphazardly

Definition

carelessly

"He haphazardly put his stuff inside his cabinet."

Translated by Google

persistent

Definition

continuing to exist past the usual time, or continuing to do something in a determined way even when facing difficulties or opposition

The salesman remained persistent throughout the negotiation process even when challenged with objections.

Translated by Google

postpone

Definition

to delay an event or arrange for it to take place at a later time

The trip has been postponed twice.

Translated by Google

valid

Definition

based on truth or reason; able to be accepted

The money was gone, and the only valid conclusion was that someone had stolen it.

Translated by Google

withdraw

Definition

to take something back, or to remove something

Democrats threatened to withdraw (= stop giving) their support of the tax bill.

Translated by Google