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.

affliction  
n. cause or condition of pain, suffering, or distress
Even in the midst of her affliction, Elizabeth tried to keep up the spirits of those around her.
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affordable  
a. able to pay for
We need treatments that are more affordable, and we need an HIV vaccine that can have the same impact on the HIV epidemic as vaccines have had on smallpox and other diseases.
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aftermath  
n. outcome; consequence, especially of a disaster or misfortune
The most critical lesson Barbara has learned from her diagnosis and the aftermath is the importance of selecting a good facility and sticking with it.
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aggrandize  
v. increase the scope of; extend; intensify; make greater in power, influence, stature, or reputation
The history of the past quarter-century illustrates how a President may aggrandize his power to act aggressively in international affairs.
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aggregate  
v. gather into a mass, sum, or whole; amount to
Before the Wall Street scandals, dealers managed to aggregate great wealth in short periods of time.
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aghast  
a. struck by shock, terror, or amazement
The film grabs you by the throat so that any feeling of being aghast is contained – and you hold on to that feeling up to the very last scene.
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