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.

anticlimax  
n. the letdown in thought or emotion; decline viewed in disappointing contrast with the previous rise
After the fine performance in the first act, the rest of the play was an anticlimax.
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antique  
n. any furniture old and valuable; out of fashion
The woeful ongoing situation of open archaeological sites, which antique smugglers are systematically plundering, will be another priority issue.
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antler  
n. entire horn, or any branch of the horn
This is taken from a soft, furry covering on developing antler of deer.
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apathetic  
a. feeling or showing a lack of interest or concern; indifferent
But he shares Mary's apathetic and listless look: he seems to have more length of limb than vivacity of blood or vigor of the brain.
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aperitif  
n. alcoholic beverage taken before a meal as an appetizer
We had it as an aperitif with cheeses but would also go well with seafood.
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apex  
n. highest point; vertex; summit; climax
He was at the apex of his career: he had climbed to the top of the heap.
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