example

meaning

word

number

Trains are still running, despite the snow.

in spite of

despite

1

Heavy snow disrupted travel into the city this morning.

upset; cause to breakdown

disrupt

2

That was a rash decision - you didn't think about the costs involved.

a breaking out with many small red spots on the skin; outbreak of many instances within a short time; too hasty or careless

rash

3

The 1990s were a period of rapid growth.

very quick; swift

rapid

4

Take a break now, please - you mustn't exhaust yourself.

empty completely; use up; tire out

exhaust

5

I don't think you quite understand the severity of our financial problems.

strictness; harshness; plainness; violence

severity

6

He was a feeble, helpless old man.

weak

feeble

7

If the opposition groups unite, they may will command over 55 percent of the vote.

join together; become one

unite

8

The company has decided to cease all UK operations after this year.

stop

cease

9

They have plenty of money now, but they still tend to be thrifty.

saving; careful in spending; thriving

thrifty

10

Being miserly with our natural resources will help us to live longer on this earth.

stingy; like a miser

miserly

11

There are few modern nations which are governed by monarchs.

king or queen; ruler

monarch

12