Vocabulary practice · Episode 206

Review the useful expressions from the episode

Study the episode’s central expressions with English definitions, nuance and examples, plus reviewed support-language versions where available.

B1–B2Everyday EnglishAbout 5 min + dynamic ads5 PDF versions available
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A short study session

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  1. Choose one expression. Read its definition, nuance and examples.
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Vocabulary from the episode

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Expression 1

fade

To become less bright or less strong over time.

Nuance: Often used for colours, photographs and memories; it can describe a gradual change.

The green fades as chlorophyll breaks down.

The colour of my favourite shirt faded in the sun.

Expression 2

break down

When a substance breaks down, it changes into simpler substances.

Nuance: In a different context, a machine can break down when it stops working; choose the meaning from context.

Chlorophyll breaks down as autumn arrives.

Some materials break down slowly in water.

Expression 3

pigment

A substance that gives something its colour.

Nuance: A leaf can contain several pigments, even when one colour is easier to see.

Chlorophyll is a green pigment in leaves.

Different pigments give paint its colour.

Expression 4

deciduous

Describing a tree that loses its leaves during part of the year.

Nuance: Used especially for trees that shed leaves in autumn; the opposite is often evergreen.

Many deciduous trees lose their leaves in autumn.

The park has both deciduous and evergreen trees.

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