LESSON 4
Vocabulary
Words/
Meaning Example
Phrases
Cascading refers to a sequence or arrangement
In the garden, a series of cascading fountains
in which elements flow or descend in a
Cascading adds a tranquil ambiance as water flows from
successive manner, often creating a
one level to another.
waterfall-like effect.
A metropolis is a large and densely populated New York City is a prime example of a bustling
Metropolis urban area that serves as a central hub for metropolis with its towering skyscrapers, diverse
economic, cultural, and social activities. population, and vibrant cultural scene.
Infinity views refer to unobstructed, limitless The expansive glass walls of the modern house
Infinity views vistas that create the illusion that the landscape provide infinity views of the ocean, blurring the
extends endlessly into the distance. line between indoors and outdoors.
Light wells are architectural features designed
The architect incorporated strategically placed
to allow natural light to penetrate and
Light wells light wells in the building's design to bring in
illuminate interior spaces that might not
sunlight and create a bright, airy atmosphere.
otherwise receive adequate daylight.
SPEAKING
LESSON 4
Words/
Meaning Example
Phrases
The garden was carefully planned with soft
Soft landscaping involves the use of living
landscaping, including flower beds, shrubs, and
Soft landscaping elements in outdoor design, such as plants, trees,
a variety of trees, creating a harmonious and
and grass, to enhance the natural environment.
visually appealing outdoor space.
A subterranean level refers to a space or floor
Subterranean The mansion featured a subterranean level that
located beneath the ground level of a building,
housed a state-of-the-art wine cellar, home
level often used for purposes such as storage, parking,
theater, and a private gym.
or additional living areas.
Sintered stone flooring is a type of durable and The kitchen was adorned with elegant sintered
Sintered stone versatile flooring material made by compacting stone flooring that not only looked luxurious
flooring and heating mineral particles to create a dense, but also offered practicality and resilience in a
hard surface. high-traffic area.
Quaint refers to something charmingly The village had a quaint charm with its
quaint old-fashioned, picturesque, or attractively cobblestone streets, historic cottages, and
unusual in a pleasing or interesting way. antique shops.
The lakeside cabin provided a tranquil retreat,
Tranquil describes a state of calm and
tranquil surrounded by nature and away from the hustle
peacefulness, free from disturbance or agitation.
and bustle of city life.
SPEAKING
LESSON 4
Words/
Meaning Example
Phrases
Towering peaks refer to exceptionally tall and The mountaineers gazed in awe at the towering
towering peaks imposing mountain summits that rise peaks of the Himalayas, their snow-capped
prominently above their surroundings. summits reaching towards the sky.
untouched Untouched scenery refers to landscapes that The national park boasts untouched scenery,
remain in their natural state without human where dense forests, pristine lakes, and rugged
scenery interference or alteration. mountains create a haven for wildlife.
Idyllic describes a place or setting that is The countryside cottage, surrounded by rolling
idyllic extremely pleasant, peaceful, and perfect in its hills and blooming meadows, was an idyllic
natural beauty. retreat for the family.
The group decided to embark on a
To embark on something means to start or cross-country road trip, exploring new
embark on
undertake a journey, adventure, or activity. destinations and enjoying the freedom of the
open road.
The trail offered a scenic hike, winding through
A scenic hike involves walking or trekking
lush forests, alongside cascading waterfalls,
scenic hike through visually appealing and picturesque
and providing breathtaking views of the valley
natural landscapes.
below.
SPEAKING
LESSON 4
Words/
Meaning Example
Phrases
Nestled among indicates a location or placement The quaint cottage was nestled among the
nestled among within a particular setting, often implying a cozy towering pine trees, providing a secluded and
or tucked-away position. peaceful retreat.
Well-tended describes something that is
The well-tended garden displayed an array of
well-tended carefully looked after, maintained, or cultivated to
vibrant flowers and neatly trimmed hedges.
ensure its health and appearance.
A facade is the front exterior face of a building,
The historic building had an ornate facade with
facade often representing its architectural style or
intricate carvings and decorative elements.
appearance.
Wrought-iron refers to a type of iron that is
The garden gate was crafted from
heated and hammered into shape, often used in
wrought-iron wrought-iron, adding a touch of elegance to
decorative elements such as gates, railings, or
the entrance.
furniture.
Manicured describes a carefully groomed or The manicured lawn featured perfectly
manicured maintained appearance, often associated with trimmed grass and meticulously arranged
landscapes, gardens, or personal grooming. flower beds.
SPEAKING
LESSON 4
Words/
Meaning Example
Phrases
The entrance was flanked by two majestic
Flanked means to be situated on either side of
flanked statues, creating a grand and imposing
something, providing support or framing.
entrance.
A riot of colors refers to a vibrant and diverse The spring garden was a riot of colors, with
a riot of colors display of various hues, creating a lively and blossoming flowers in shades of red, blue,
visually striking scene. yellow, and purple.
To lounge on something means to relax or recline After a long day of exploration, they decided to
lounge on comfortably on a surface, often implying a lounge on the beach chairs and enjoy the
leisurely or laid-back activity. sunset.
To engross in something means to become She decided to engross herself in a captivating
engross in deeply absorbed or fully occupied with a novel, losing track of time as she immersed
particular activity or subject. herself in the story.
Perched on refers to a position where something The cozy cabin was perched on the edge of the
perched on is elevated or situated on a high point, often with cliff, offering breathtaking views of the valley
a sense of balance or prominence. below.
SPEAKING
LESSON 4
Words/
Meaning Example
Phrases
Sun-kissed describes a warm and radiant The sun-kissed meadow glowed with the
sun-kissed appearance, often associated with a gentle golden hues of the late afternoon, creating a
exposure to sunlight. picturesque scene.
earthy Earthy stonework refers to construction or The farmhouse was adorned with earthy
structures made from natural stone materials, stonework, giving it a timeless and traditional
stonework creating a rustic and grounded aesthetic. appeal.
Serenity is a state of calm, peace, and tranquility, The mountain lake exuded serenity, with its
serenity often associated with a quiet and undisturbed still waters reflecting the surrounding peaks
environment. and a gentle breeze rustling the trees.
To revel in something means to take great As the sun set over the horizon, they decided
revel in pleasure or delight in a particular experience, to revel in the beauty of the moment, savoring
often with a sense of enjoyment. the peaceful atmosphere.
SPEAKING