What vocabulary words to make my Primary 4 English better?

A Parent’s Guide to Enhancing Your Primary 4 Child’s English Vocabulary: Essential Words, Strategies, and Resources

As a parent in Singapore, watching your child navigate Primary 4 can feel both exciting and daunting. At this stage, around age 10, English becomes a cornerstone of their education, laying the groundwork for the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) in just two years. Vocabulary, in particular, plays a pivotal role—not just for acing exams but for fostering clear communication, comprehension, and creative expression. A strong vocabulary helps children tackle comprehension passages, composition writing, and oral exams with confidence. But how do you, as a busy parent, support this without turning it into a chore?

Drawing from educational research, Singapore’s Ministry of Education (MOE) guidelines, and proven teaching methods, this comprehensive guide equips you with everything you need. We’ll cover the key vocabulary expectations for Primary 4, curated word lists tailored to PSLE preparation, effective strategies to build word power, and practical resources. Whether your child is thriving or needs a boost, these tips—backed by experts—will help you make vocabulary learning engaging and effective. Remember, consistency and fun are key; start small and celebrate progress together.

Understanding Vocabulary in the Primary 4 English Syllabus

In Singapore’s primary education system, the English syllabus emphasizes holistic language development, with vocabulary as a core component. By Primary 4, students are expected to expand their word knowledge beyond basic terms to include more descriptive, contextual, and nuanced language. This builds on Primary 3 foundations, preparing for the analytical demands of upper primary levels.

According to the MOE’s English Language Syllabus for Primary Schools, vocabulary learning focuses on:

• Contextual Understanding: Words are taught in meaningful contexts, such as stories or real-life scenarios, to aid retention and usage.
• Word Families and Morphology: Children learn roots, prefixes, and suffixes (e.g., “un-” for negation) to decode unfamiliar words independently.
• Themed Vocabulary: Topics like family, environment, technology, and emotions are common, aligning with PSLE themes.
• Learning Outcomes: By the end of Primary 4, students should use a vocabulary of about 2,000-3,000 words actively, demonstrate synonyms/antonyms, and apply words in writing and speaking.

Research from educational platforms highlights that vocabulary gaps at this stage can impact overall academic performance, as words form the building blocks for comprehension and expression. Parents can bridge this by integrating daily exposure and targeted practice, ensuring words are not just memorized but internalized.

Essential Vocabulary Lists for Primary 4

To make this actionable, I’ve compiled vocabulary lists based on PSLE-aligned resources from trusted Singapore educators. These are divided into Basic (foundational words for everyday use), Intermediate (descriptive terms for better expression), and Advanced (nuanced words for PSLE-level compositions). Aim for your child to learn 10-15 words weekly, using flashcards or apps for review.

Basic Vocabulary List (Top 100 Words)

These words focus on actions, emotions, and common scenarios, essential for sentence building and basic comprehension.

Word	Meaning	Example in Singapore Context
Agree	To have the same opinion	We agree that the hawker centre food is delicious.
Brave	Showing courage	The brave student stood up to the bully.
Create	To make something new	Create a model of the Merlion for art class.
Decide	To make a choice	Decide between visiting Sentosa or the Zoo.
Enjoy	To take pleasure in	Enjoy the National Day fireworks at Marina Bay.
Follow	To go after	Follow the teacher to the Science Centre.
Gather	To collect together	Gather friends for a picnic at East Coast Park.
Hope	To wish for something	Hope for good weather during the school outing.
Imagine	To picture in mind	Imagine living in a HDB flat with a view of the skyline.
Join	To become part of	Join the robotics club at school.
Keep	To retain	Keep your MRT card safe.
Learn	To gain knowledge	Learn about Singapore’s history in class.
Move	To change position	Move to the rhythm at the Chingay Parade.
Notice	To observe	Notice the new mural in Kampong Glam.
Obey	To follow rules	Obey traffic lights when crossing Orchard Road.
Protect	To keep safe	Protect the environment by recycling.
Quiet	Making little noise	Be quiet in the National Library.
Remember	To recall	Remember to bring your EZ-Link card.
Share	To divide with others	Share kueh during Hari Raya.
Think	To consider	Think about your PSLE goals.
Understand	To comprehend	Understand the rules of the game.
Visit	To go to a place	Visit the Botanic Gardens.
Wait	To stay until	Wait for the bus at the interchange.
Accept	To receive	Accept the invitation to the school event.
Borrow	To take temporarily	Borrow books from the library.
Climb	To ascend	Climb the steps at Fort Canning.
Describe	To explain in words	Describe the taste of chilli crab.
Explain	To make clear	Explain the MRT map to a friend.
Forgive	To pardon	Forgive a classmate’s mistake.
Help	To assist	Help clean up after the family dinner.
Invent	To create new	Invent a gadget for the science fair.
Juggle	To handle multiple	Juggle schoolwork and CCA.
Listen	To hear attentively	Listen to the teacher’s instructions.
Mention	To refer to	Mention the fun at Universal Studios.
Nudge	To push gently	Nudge your sibling to share.
Offer	To provide	Offer help to an elderly neighbor.
Praise	To commend	Praise good effort in studies.
Question	To ask	Question the plot in a storybook.
Read	To interpret text	Read about Singapore’s pioneers.
Suggest	To propose	Suggest a trip to Pulau Ubin.
Travel	To journey	Travel by MRT to school.
Use	To employ	Use chopsticks for meals.
Value	To appreciate	Value family time during festivals.
Whisper	To speak softly	Whisper in the cinema.
Exchange	To swap	Exchange gifts during Christmas.
Yearn	To long for	Yearn for holidays at Changi Beach.
Zip	To fasten	Zip up your school bag.
Admire	To respect	Admire the architecture of Marina Bay Sands.
Behave	To act properly	Behave well at the museum.
Connect	To link	Connect ideas in composition.
Discover	To find	Discover artifacts at the museum.
Expand	To grow	Expand your knowledge through reading.
Greet	To welcome	Greet teachers with “Good morning.”
Humble	Modest	Stay humble after success.
Inspire	To motivate	Inspire others with kindness.
Judge	To evaluate	Judge fairly in debates.
Laugh	To express joy	Laugh at funny moments in class.
Migrate	To move	Birds migrate to Sungei Buloh.
Narrate	To tell a story	Narrate a tale from folklore.
Organize	To arrange	Organize your study desk.
Perform	To execute	Perform in the school play.
Quench	To satisfy thirst	Quench thirst with sugarcane juice.
Respect	To honor	Respect elders during Chinese New Year.
Smile	To express happiness	Smile for the class photo.
Thank	To express gratitude	Thank the bus uncle.
Unite	To bring together	Unite for group projects.
Volunteer	To offer help	Volunteer at community events.
Wonder	To ponder	Wonder about the stars at the planetarium.
Exclaim	To cry out	Exclaim “Goal!” at a soccer match.
Yell	To shout	Yell cheers at sports day.
Zoom	To speed	Zoom on the rollercoaster at Sentosa.
Adjust	To modify	Adjust to new school rules.
Belong	To fit in	Belong to the school choir.
Contribute	To add	Contribute ideas in discussions.
Dream	To aspire	Dream of becoming a doctor.
Encourage	To support	Encourage your friends.
Focus	To concentrate	Focus on your homework.
Hug	To embrace	Hug family after a long day.
Include	To add in	Include details in writing.
Jump	To leap	Jump rope during PE.
Locate	To find	Locate Singapore on the map.
Measure	To quantify	Measure ingredients for baking.
Navigate	To direct	Navigate the zoo trails.
Observe	To watch	Observe wildlife at the nature reserve.
Predict	To forecast	Predict the weather for the outing.
Quietly	Silently	Read quietly in the library.
Repeat	To do again	Repeat the spelling words.
Sing	To vocalize	Sing the national anthem.
Trust	To rely on	Trust your teammates.
Upset	To distress	Don’t get upset over small mistakes.
View	To see	View the skyline from the flyer.
Write	To compose	Write a story about adventures.
Imitate	To copy	Imitate animal sounds in class.
Jot	To note quickly	Jot down ideas for composition.
Label	To tag	Label your school books.
Memorize	To commit to memory	Memorize times tables.
Negotiate	To discuss	Negotiate turns on the swing.
Overcome	To conquer	Overcome fear of public speaking.
Participate	To take part	Participate in CCA activities.
Question	To inquire	Question to learn more.

Intermediate Vocabulary List (Top 100 Words)

These words add depth to descriptions, ideal for compositions and oral responses.

Word	Meaning	Example in Singapore Context
Abrupt	Sudden	The abrupt rain stopped the outdoor PE lesson.
Acknowledge	To admit	Acknowledge your teacher’s feedback.
Ambitious	Eager to succeed	The ambitious student aims for top PSLE scores.
Anxious	Worried	Feeling anxious before the school exam.
Assume	To suppose	Assume the MRT will be crowded during peak hours.
Astonish	To surprise	The magic show at Sentosa astonished the kids.
Banish	To expel	Banish negative thoughts before tests.
Benevolent	Kind	The benevolent neighbor helps during festivals.
Blunder	Mistake	Avoid a blunder in your composition.
Boisterous	Noisy	The boisterous class quieted for assembly.
Calamity	Disaster	The flood was a calamity for low-lying areas.
Cautious	Careful	Be cautious crossing busy roads like Orchard.
Commence	To start	School commences after the holidays.
Compassion	Sympathy	Show compassion to classmates in need.
Comprehend	To understand	Comprehend the passage for comprehension questions.
Conceal	To hide	Conceal surprises for birthday parties.
Confident	Self-assured	Feel confident in oral presentations.
Conquer	To overcome	Conquer math challenges with practice.
Courageous	Brave	The courageous act saved the day.
Deceive	To trick	Don’t deceive friends with lies.
Delicate	Fragile	Handle the orchid delicately.
Desperate	Hopeless	Desperate to find lost items before school.
Diligent	Hardworking	Diligent study leads to good grades.
Disastrous	Harmful	A disastrous storm hit the island.
Disguise	To hide identity	Disguise for Halloween at school.
Dismal	Gloomy	Dismal weather ruined the picnic.
Distinguish	To recognize	Distinguish landmarks like the Merlion.
Eager	Enthusiastic	Eager for the school trip to the zoo.
Eliminate	To remove	Eliminate errors in your work.
Encourage	To motivate	Encourage peers during group work.
Enormous	Huge	The enormous Supertree at Gardens by the Bay.
Essential	Necessary	Essential items for school camp.
Esteem	Respect	Hold teachers in high esteem.
Exhausted	Tired	Exhausted after sports day.
Exquisite	Beautiful	Exquisite designs in Peranakan culture.
Fascinate	To captivate	The history of Singapore fascinates students.
Fatigue	Weariness	Fatigue after a long hike.
Fragile	Breakable	Fragile glassware in the museum.
Generous	Giving	Generous donations for charity.
Genuine	Authentic	Genuine interest in learning.
Gracious	Polite	Be gracious in defeat.
Hasty	Rushed	Avoid hasty decisions in exams.
Hazardous	Dangerous	Hazardous areas near construction sites.
Humble	Modest	Remain humble despite achievements.
Illuminate	To light up	Illuminate the room for reading.
Imitate	To copy	Imitate good habits from role models.
Impatient	Restless	Impatient waiting for recess.
Inspire	To motivate	Inspire with stories of success.
Jubilant	Joyful	Jubilant after winning the quiz.
Kindness	Friendliness	Acts of kindness in school.
Lament	To mourn	Lament the end of holidays.
Luminous	Glowing	Luminous lights during Deepavali.
Magnificent	Impressive	Magnificent view from the Flyer.
Marvel	To wonder	Marvel at the architecture.
Menace	Threat	Stray dogs can be a menace.
Meticulous	Detailed	Meticulous planning for projects.
Mysterious	Enigmatic	Mysterious tales from folklore.
Neglect	To ignore	Don’t neglect homework.
Nurture	To care for	Nurture talents through CCA.
Oblivious	Unaware	Oblivious to the noise while studying.
Obstinate	Stubborn	Obstinate about opinions.
Optimistic	Hopeful	Optimistic about PSLE results.
Peculiar	Strange	Peculiar customs in festivals.
Persevere	To persist	Persevere through difficulties.
Plentiful	Abundant	Plentiful fruits at the market.
Ponder	To think deeply	Ponder over riddles.
Precise	Exact	Precise measurements in science.
Predict	To forecast	Predict outcomes in stories.
Proclaim	To announce	Proclaim victory in games.
Prosperous	Successful	Prosperous business in Chinatown.
Punctual	On time	Be punctual for school.
Radiant	Bright	Radiant smile after praise.
Reassure	To comfort	Reassure before exams.
Reluctant	Hesitant	Reluctant to try new food.
Resilient	Tough	Resilient after setbacks.
Restrict	To limit	Restrict screen time.
Reveal	To disclose	Reveal secrets in games.
Scarcely	Barely	Scarcely any time left.
Sincere	Honest	Sincere apologies mend friendships.
Spectacular	Amazing	Spectacular fireworks.
Splendid	Excellent	Splendid performance.
Stamina	Endurance	Build stamina for PE.
Substantial	Significant	Substantial improvement.
Surpass	To exceed	Surpass expectations.
Tedious	Boring	Tedious tasks require patience.
Tolerate	To endure	Tolerate differences.
Tranquil	Calm	Tranquil parks for relaxation.
Unpredictable	Changeable	Unpredictable weather.
Valiant	Brave	Valiant efforts in sports.
Versatile	Adaptable	Versatile skills for future.
Vibrant	Energetic	Vibrant street markets.
Vigorous	Strong	Vigorous exercise.
Witty	Clever	Witty jokes in class.
Wretched	Miserable	Wretched feeling when ill.
Yearn	To desire	Yearn for adventure.
Zealous	Passionate	Zealous about learning.

Advanced Vocabulary List (Top 50 Words)

For PSLE readiness, these words enhance sophistication in writing and speaking.

Word	Meaning	Example in Singapore Context
Enchanting	Charming	The enchanting lights of Gardens by the Bay.
Whimsical	Playful	Whimsical designs in street art.
Fantastical	Imaginary	Fantastical stories from local myths.
Intricate	Detailed	Intricate patterns in batik.
Mesmerize	To hypnotize	Mesmerized by the lion dance.
Ingenious	Clever	Ingenious inventions at the tech expo.
Vibrant	Lively	Vibrant culture in Little India.
Evoke	To bring to mind	Evoke memories of kampong life.
Serene	Peaceful	Serene atmosphere at the reservoir.
Exuberant	Energetic	Exuberant cheers at National Day.
Quintessential	Typical	Quintessential Singaporean dish like laksa.
Resplendent	Splendid	Resplendent in traditional attire.
Eloquent	Expressive	Eloquent speech at assembly.
Profound	Deep	Profound impact of history lessons.
Astute	Shrewd	Astute observations in science.
Voracious	Eager	Voracious reader of books.
Ephemeral	Short-lived	Ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms.
Labyrinth	Maze	Labyrinth of paths in the park.
Nostalgic	Sentimental	Nostalgic about old Singapore.
Opulent	Luxurious	Opulent malls on Orchard Road.
Pernicious	Harmful	Pernicious effects of pollution.
Quixotic	Idealistic	Quixotic dreams of adventure.
Rancor	Bitterness	Avoid rancor in friendships.
Sagacious	Wise	Sagacious advice from grandparents.
Taciturn	Reserved	Taciturn during group discussions.
Ubiquitous	Everywhere	Ubiquitous MRT stations.
Vex	To annoy	Vexed by traffic jams.
Wistful	Longing	Wistful for holidays.
Xenial	Hospitable	Xenial hosts during festivals.
Yield	To produce	Yield good results with effort.
Zenith	Peak	Zenith of success in PSLE.
Adroit	Skillful	Adroit in handling tasks.
Belligerent	Aggressive	Avoid belligerent behavior.
Capricious	Unpredictable	Capricious weather changes.
Deft	Dexterous	Deft hands in crafts.
Ebullient	Cheerful	Ebullient after victories.
Facile	Easy	Facile explanations in class.
Garrulous	Talkative	Garrulous during recess.
Hapless	Unlucky	Hapless in bad weather.
Iconic	Symbolic	Iconic Merlion statue.
Jovial	Cheerful	Jovial family gatherings.
Kinetic	Moving	Kinetic energy in physics.
Languid	Lazy	Languid on hot days.
Malleable	Flexible	Malleable clay in art.
Nebulous	Vague	Nebulous ideas need clarity.
Obdurate	Stubborn	Obdurate about views.
Pensive	Thoughtful	Pensive while studying.
Quaint	Charming	Quaint shops in Chinatown.
Rambunctious	Boisterous	Rambunctious playtime.
Sanguine	Optimistic	Sanguine about future.

Proven Strategies to Improve Your Child’s Vocabulary

Building vocabulary isn’t about rote memorization; it’s about immersion and application. Here are 10 research-backed strategies, adapted for Primary 4 students, to make learning stick.

1. Create a Personalized Vocabulary Journal: Encourage your child to maintain a notebook for new words, including definitions, synonyms, antonyms, and sentences. Review it weekly to reinforce retention. This builds ownership and tracks progress.
2. Encourage Extensive Reading: Reading exposes children to words in context. Aim for 20-30 minutes daily with books like Roald Dahl’s stories or Singapore-themed tales (e.g., “The Singapore I Remember”). Discuss unfamiliar words to deepen understanding.
3. Implement Vocabulary Games: Make learning fun with apps like Quizlet or board games like Scrabble. Family word challenges, such as “Word of the Day” at dinner, turn meals into learning opportunities.
4. Contextual Learning Through Stories: Use storytelling to introduce words. For example, weave intermediate words into bedtime stories about Singapore adventures, helping children see how words fit naturally.
5. Incorporate Daily Conversations: Use rich language in talks—replace “big” with “enormous” when describing the Singapore Flyer. This models usage without pressure.
6. Learn Word Parts: Teach roots (e.g., “tele-” for far), prefixes, and suffixes. This empowers children to decode words like “teleport” independently, a key PSLE skill.
7. Provide Multiple Exposures: Repeat words across activities—read, write, speak. Spaced repetition apps like Anki ensure long-term memory.
8. Watch Educational Content: Shows like BBC Kids or local programs with subtitles introduce words visually. Follow up with discussions.
9. Group Activities and Collaboration: Join family or online word-building sessions. Peer teaching reinforces learning exponentially.
10. Track and Reward Progress: Set goals like mastering 50 words monthly, with rewards like a trip to the library. Personalize based on your child’s style—visual aids for drawers, actions for kinesthetic learners.

Consistency is crucial; research shows that 10-15 exposures per word lead to mastery.

Resources and Tools for Parents

Equip yourself with these Singapore-focused resources:

• Books: “Word Power Made Easy” by Norman Lewis or PSLE-specific vocab builders from Popular Bookstore.
• Apps: Vocabulary.com, Duolingo Kids, or Geniebook for interactive quizzes aligned to the syllabus.
• Websites: EduKate Singapore for free lists and tips; Thinking Factory for exercises.
• Tuition Centers: Consider centers like EduFirst or illum.e for structured programs.
• MOE Resources: Check the MOE website for syllabus details and parent guides.
• Community: Join Facebook groups like Singapore Primary School Parents for shared tips.

Tips for Parents: Making It Sustainable

• Be Involved: Learn alongside your child—model curiosity.
• Avoid Overload: Short, daily sessions beat cramming.
• Monitor Progress: Use school feedback and home quizzes.
• Address Challenges: If your child struggles, consult teachers or tutors early.
• Cultural Tie-Ins: Relate words to Singapore’s festivals or landmarks for relevance.

Conclusion

Enhancing your Primary 4 child’s English vocabulary is an investment in their future success. By using these lists, strategies, and resources, you’ll not only prepare them for PSLE but also ignite a lifelong love for language. Start today with one strategy, and watch their confidence soar. As parents, our role is to guide gently—your efforts will pay off. For more personalized advice, explore the linked resources or reach out to educators at eduKate for English Tutorials. Happy learning!

More vocabulary Words for the Hungry and Exceptional:

Comprehensive Vocabulary Lists for Primary 4 English in Singapore

As a parent helping your child with Primary 4 English, having access to structured vocabulary lists is essential for PSLE preparation. Below, I’ve compiled key lists from reliable Singapore-based sources, organized into tables for easy reference. These include the three levels (Basic, Intermediate, Advanced) from eduKate Singapore, a character traits list from eduKate, and a sample exam vocabulary list from Nan Hua Primary School via Thinking Factory. Each table includes the word, meaning (where provided), and example (where provided). Clickable links are embedded in the section headers for direct access to sources.

I’ve focused on PSLE-aligned lists to ensure relevance to the MOE syllabus. Start with 10-15 words per week, using strategies like flashcards or contextual sentences.

Basic Vocabulary List (Top 100 PSLE Primary 4) – Source: eduKate Singapore

This list focuses on foundational words. Meanings and examples are not provided in the source.

Word	Meaning	Example
Agree	N/A	N/A
Brave	N/A	N/A
Create	N/A	N/A
Decide	N/A	N/A
Enjoy	N/A	N/A
Follow	N/A	N/A
Gather	N/A	N/A
Hope	N/A	N/A
Imagine	N/A	N/A
Join	N/A	N/A
Keep	N/A	N/A
Learn	N/A	N/A
Move	N/A	N/A
Notice	N/A	N/A
Obey	N/A	N/A
Protect	N/A	N/A
Quiet	N/A	N/A
Remember	N/A	N/A
Share	N/A	N/A
Think	N/A	N/A
Understand	N/A	N/A
Visit	N/A	N/A
Wait	N/A	N/A
Accept	N/A	N/A
Borrow	N/A	N/A
Climb	N/A	N/A
Describe	N/A	N/A
Explain	N/A	N/A
Forgive	N/A	N/A
Help	N/A	N/A
Invent	N/A	N/A
Juggle	N/A	N/A
Listen	N/A	N/A
Mention	N/A	N/A
Nudge	N/A	N/A
Offer	N/A	N/A
Praise	N/A	N/A
Question	N/A	N/A
Read	N/A	N/A
Suggest	N/A	N/A
Travel	N/A	N/A
Use	N/A	N/A
Value	N/A	N/A
Whisper	N/A	N/A
Exchange	N/A	N/A
Yearn	N/A	N/A
Zip	N/A	N/A
Admire	N/A	N/A
Behave	N/A	N/A
Connect	N/A	N/A
Discover	N/A	N/A
Expand	N/A	N/A
Greet	N/A	N/A
Humble	N/A	N/A
Inspire	N/A	N/A
Judge	N/A	N/A
Laugh	N/A	N/A
Migrate	N/A	N/A
Narrate	N/A	N/A
Organize	N/A	N/A
Perform	N/A	N/A
Quench	N/A	N/A
Respect	N/A	N/A
Smile	N/A	N/A
Thank	N/A	N/A
Unite	N/A	N/A
Volunteer	N/A	N/A
Wonder	N/A	N/A
Exclaim	N/A	N/A
Yell	N/A	N/A
Zoom	N/A	N/A
Adjust	N/A	N/A
Belong	N/A	N/A
Contribute	N/A	N/A
Dream	N/A	N/A
Encourage	N/A	N/A
Focus	N/A	N/A
Hug	N/A	N/A
Include	N/A	N/A
Jump	N/A	N/A
Locate	N/A	N/A
Measure	N/A	N/A
Navigate	N/A	N/A
Observe	N/A	N/A
Predict	N/A	N/A
Quietly	N/A	N/A
Repeat	N/A	N/A
Sing	N/A	N/A
Trust	N/A	N/A
Upset	N/A	N/A
View	N/A	N/A
Write	N/A	N/A
Imitate	N/A	N/A
Jot	N/A	N/A
Label	N/A	N/A
Memorize	N/A	N/A
Negotiate	N/A	N/A
Overcome	N/A	N/A
Participate	N/A	N/A
Question	N/A	N/A

Intermediate Vocabulary List (Top 100 PSLE Primary 4) – Source: eduKate Singapore

This list includes meanings and Singapore-context examples.

Word	Meaning	Example
Abrupt	Sudden and unexpected	The abrupt change in weather caught everyone by surprise.
Acknowledge	Accept or admit the existence or truth of something	She acknowledged her teacher’s help in preparing for the PSLE.
Ambitious	Having a strong desire to succeed or achieve something	He was ambitious, aiming to be the top student in his school.
Anxious	Feeling worried, nervous, or uneasy	She felt anxious about the upcoming PSLE exams.
Assume	Suppose to be the case without proof	He assumed he would pass the exam without studying much.
Astonish	To surprise or amaze someone	The student’s perfect score on the test astonished his parents.
Banish	Send someone away from a country or place as an official punishment	The principal decided to banish the unruly student from the school trip.
Benevolent	Well-meaning and kindly	The benevolent teacher always stayed back to help struggling students.
Blunder	A stupid or careless mistake	He made a blunder by forgetting to submit his homework.
Boisterous	Noisy, energetic, and cheerful	The boisterous children played noisily in the HDB playground.
Calamity	An event causing great and often sudden damage or distress; a disaster	The flash flood in Orchard Road was a calamity for many businesses.
Cautious	Careful to avoid potential problems or dangers	She was cautious while crossing the busy road.
Commence	To begin or start	The school term will commence next Monday.
Compassion	Sympathetic pity and concern for the sufferings or misfortunes of others	Showing compassion, the student helped his classmate who was feeling unwell.
Comprehend	To understand or grasp the meaning of something	It was difficult for him to comprehend the advanced math problems.
Conceal	To hide or keep something secret	She tried to conceal her disappointment after losing the competition.
Confident	Feeling or showing confidence in oneself or one’s abilities	He was confident about his presentation on Singapore’s history.
Conquer	To overcome and take control of a place or people by use of military force	The team hoped to conquer their rivals in the upcoming match.
Courageous	Not deterred by danger or pain; brave	The courageous student stood up against bullying in school.
Deceive	To mislead or trick someone	It is wrong to deceive your friends by spreading false rumors.
Delicate	Easily broken or damaged; fragile	The delicate orchid was carefully handled during the science experiment.
Desperate	Feeling or showing a hopeless sense that a situation is so bad as to be impossible to deal with	The student was desperate to find his lost textbook before the exams.
Diligent	Showing care and effort in one’s work or duties	She was a diligent student, always completing her assignments on time.
Disastrous	Causing great damage or harm	The failed project was disastrous for the student’s final grade.
Disguise	To change the appearance of something or someone to conceal identity	He used a disguise to play a prank on his classmates during the drama performance.
Dismal	Depressing; dreary	The dismal weather ruined our plans for a picnic at East Coast Park.
Distinguish	To recognize or treat someone or something as different	It was easy to distinguish the Marina Bay Sands from other buildings in the skyline.
Eager	Strongly wanting to do or have something	The students were eager to visit the Science Centre.
Eliminate	To remove or get rid of something	The coach worked hard to eliminate the team’s weaknesses before the finals.
Encourage	To give support, confidence, or hope to someone	The teacher’s words of encouragement boosted the students’ confidence.
Enormous	Very large in size, quantity, or extent	The enormous Merlion statue is a popular tourist attraction.
Essential	Absolutely necessary; extremely important	Good time management is essential for PSLE success.
Esteem	Respect and admiration, typically for a person	The principal held the top students in high esteem.
Exhausted	Very tired	She was exhausted after a long day of studying at the library.
Exquisite	Extremely beautiful and, typically, delicate	The Peranakan Museum showcases exquisite artifacts.
Fascinate	To attract and hold the attention of someone	The history of Singapore’s development fascinated the young students.
Fatigue	Extreme tiredness resulting from mental or physical exertion	After the cross-country run, the students were overcome with fatigue.
Fragile	Easily broken or damaged	The porcelain vase in the museum was very fragile.
Generous	Showing a readiness to give more of something than is strictly necessary or expected	The generous donation from the alumni helped fund new school facilities.
Genuine	Truly what something is said to be; authentic	The student’s genuine interest in science was evident.
Gracious	Courteous, kind, and pleasant	The gracious host welcomed everyone to the National Day celebration.
Hasty	Done or acting with excessive speed or urgency; hurried	A hasty decision can lead to mistakes, as the teacher often reminded the class.
Hazardous	Risky; dangerous	The construction site was marked as hazardous and off-limits to students.
Humble	Having or showing a modest or low estimate of one’s importance	Despite his success, he remained humble and approachable.
Illuminate	To light up	The city’s skyline was beautifully illuminated during the Marina Bay Countdown.
Imitate	To copy or follow the example of someone	The students were encouraged to imitate the speaking styles of famous Singaporean leaders.
Impatient	Having or showing a tendency to be quickly irritated or provoked	The children grew impatient while waiting for their turn at the playground.
Inspire	To fill someone with the urge or ability to do or feel something, especially to do something creative	The story of Singapore’s independence continues to inspire many.
Jubilant	Feeling or expressing great happiness and triumph	The jubilant students celebrated their win at the national quiz competition.
Kindness	The quality of being friendly, generous, and considerate	Showing kindness, she shared her snacks with her classmates during recess.
Lament	To mourn (a person’s loss or death)	He lamented the loss of his favorite playground after the renovation.
Luminous	Giving off light; bright or shining	The luminous lights of Orchard Road during Christmas are a sight to behold.
Magnificent	Extremely beautiful, elaborate, or impressive	The view from the Singapore Flyer is absolutely magnificent.
Marvel	To be filled with wonder or astonishment	Tourists often marvel at the architecture of the Esplanade.
Menace	A person or thing that is likely to cause harm; a threat or danger	The stray cats were a menace to the neighborhood gardens.
Meticulous	Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise	The teacher was meticulous in grading the students’ essays.
Mysterious	Difficult or impossible to understand, explain, or identify	The origins of the ancient artifacts in the museum remain mysterious.
Neglect	To fail to care for properly	Neglecting their studies led to poor results for some students.
Nurture	To care for and encourage the growth or development of	The school’s environment helps nurture young talents.
Oblivious	Not aware of or not concerned about what is happening around one	She was oblivious to the noise around her as she focused on her book.
Obstinate	Stubbornly refusing to change one’s opinion or chosen course of action	The obstinate student refused to change his mind despite the evidence presented.
Optimistic	Hopeful and confident about the future	Despite the challenges, the team remained optimistic about their chances.
Peculiar	Strange or odd; unusual	The peculiar smell from the science experiment puzzled the students.
Persevere	To continue in a course of action even in the face of difficulty	The students had to persevere through the tough math problems to find the correct answers.
Plentiful	Existing in or yielding great quantities; abundant	Plentiful rain this season has made the gardens bloom beautifully.
Ponder	To think about something carefully, especially before making a decision	He took a moment to ponder over the question before answering.
Precise	Marked by exactness and accuracy of expression or detail	The instructions for the project had to be followed in a precise manner.
Predict	To say or estimate that a specified thing will happen in the future	The weather forecast predicts rain for the National Day Parade.
Proclaim	To announce officially or publicly	The school will proclaim the start of the new term with a special assembly.
Prosperous	Successful in material terms; flourishing financially	The prosperous businessman donated generously to the school’s new library fund.
Punctual	Happening or doing something at the agreed or proper time; on time	Being punctual is important for success, as emphasized by the teacher.
Radiant	Sending out light; shining or glowing brightly	Her radiant smile lit up the room.
Reassure	To say or do something to remove the doubts and fears of someone	The teacher reassured the nervous student before the exam.
Reluctant	Unwilling and hesitant; disinclined	He was reluctant to join the drama club at first, but soon grew to love it.
Resilient	Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions	The resilient community quickly rebuilt after the fire.
Restrict	To limit the movement or actions of someone	The school decided to restrict access to certain websites during class time.
Reveal	To make something known to others	The new project plans were revealed during the assembly.
Scarcely	Only just; almost not	He could scarcely believe his eyes when he saw the beautiful view from the Marina Bay Sands.
Sincere	Free from pretense or deceit; proceeding from genuine feelings	Her apology was sincere, and her friend forgave her.
Spectacular	Beautiful in a dramatic and eye-catching way	The fireworks display on New Year’s Eve was spectacular.
Splendid	Magnificent; very impressive	They had a splendid time visiting the Singapore Zoo.
Stamina	The ability to sustain prolonged physical or mental effort	The marathon runner showed great stamina throughout the race.
Substantial	Of considerable importance, size, or worth	The school received a substantial grant for the new science lab.
Surpass	To exceed; be greater than	Her performance in the exams surpassed all expectations.
Tedious	Too long, slow, or dull; tiresome or monotonous	The tedious task of cleaning the classroom was done by everyone taking turns.
Tolerate	To allow the existence, occurrence, or practice of something without interference	The teacher would not tolerate any form of bullying in her classroom.
Tranquil	Free from disturbance; calm	The tranquil atmosphere of the Botanic Gardens was perfect for studying.
Unpredictable	Not able to be predicted; changeable	The unpredictable weather in Singapore can change from sunny to rainy in minutes.
Valiant	Possessing or showing courage or determination	The valiant efforts of the students helped win the sports championship.
Versatile	Able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities	The versatile student excelled in both academics and sports.
Vibrant	Full of energy and enthusiasm	The vibrant colors of the Chinatown decorations were captivating.
Vigorous	Strong, healthy, and full of energy	The students participated in a vigorous debate on environmental issues.
Witty	Showing or characterized by quick and inventive verbal humor	His witty remarks always made the class laugh.
Wretched	In a very unhappy or unfortunate state	The wretched condition of the abandoned house was noticed by the town council.
Yearn	To have an intense feeling of longing for something	She yearned to visit Sentosa again after their last trip.
Zealous	Having or showing zeal; passionate	The zealous volunteer helped organize the charity event.

Advanced Vocabulary List (Top 100 PSLE Primary 4) – Source: eduKate Singapore

This list is themed, with meanings and examples. I’ve combined the sections into one table for simplicity (total 100 words).

Word	Meaning	Example
Observe	To watch carefully	We observe the stars at night during our science lesson.
Wander	To walk or move in a leisurely or aimless way	The children wandered around the park, exploring the new playground.
Whimper	To make a series of low, weak sounds expressive of fear or pain	The puppy whimpered when it was left alone.
Admire	To look at something or someone with appreciation or pleasure	I admire the beautiful paintings in the art gallery.
Gaze	To look steadily and intently, especially in admiration or thought	She gazed at the sunset, lost in thought.
Approach	To come near or nearer to something or someone	As we approach the hilltop, the view becomes more breathtaking.
Bounce	To move quickly up, back, or away from a surface after hitting it	The ball bounced across the floor after he threw it.
Scatter	To throw in various random directions	The wind scattered the leaves all over the garden.
Sprint	To run very fast for a short distance	The athlete sprinted to the finish line to win the race.
Tumble	To fall suddenly, clumsily, or headlong	She tumbled off the slide and landed softly on the sand.
Gather	To bring together or collect in one place	We gathered all the materials needed for our group project.
Stretch	To straighten or extend one’s body to its full length	I like to stretch my arms when I wake up in the morning.
Giggle	To laugh in a silly or nervous way	The kids giggled when they heard the funny joke.
Tilt	To move or cause to move into a sloping position	She tilted her head to look at the bird on the branch.
Scramble	To move or climb quickly, especially with hands and feet	We scrambled up the hill to get to the top before sunset.
Stumble	To trip or momentarily lose one’s balance	He stumbled over the uneven ground while hiking.
Shiver	To shake slightly because of cold or fear	She shivered in the cold wind.
Murmur	To say something in a low or indistinct voice	He murmured his answer because he was shy.
Frown	To wrinkle one’s forehead in displeasure or concentration	The teacher frowned when the student didn’t pay attention.
Dash	To run quickly or suddenly	He dashed across the playground to join his friends.
Tremble	To shake involuntarily, often as a result of fear or excitement	She trembled with excitement as she waited to open her gift.
Sigh	To let out a long, deep breath to express sadness or relief	He sighed in relief when he found his lost book.
Glance	To take a quick look at something	I glanced at the clock to check the time during the exam.
Tiptoe	To walk quietly and carefully on the toes	She tiptoed into the room so she wouldn’t wake the baby.
Examine	To inspect something closely	The teacher examined the students’ work carefully.
Brave	Showing courage or a willingness to face challenges	The brave fireman rescued the cat from the tree.
Grateful	Feeling or showing thanks or appreciation	I am grateful for all the help my friends gave me.
Honest	Truthful and sincere	It’s important to be honest when answering the teacher’s questions.
Curious	Eager to learn or know more about something	She is always curious about how things work.
Confident	Feeling or showing certainty in oneself and one’s abilities	He was confident that he would do well in his exam.
Generous	Willing to give more of something than is expected or needed	She is always generous with her time, helping her classmates.
Patient	Able to accept or tolerate delays or problems without getting upset	The teacher was patient as she explained the problem again.
Jealous	Feeling or showing envy of someone or their achievements	He was jealous of his friend’s new bicycle.
Anxious	Feeling nervous or worried about something that may happen	She was anxious about her presentation in front of the class.
Proud	Feeling deep satisfaction or pleasure in achievements	He felt proud when he received the award for his hard work.
Embarrassed	Feeling awkward, self-conscious, or ashamed	I was embarrassed when I tripped in front of everyone.
Hopeful	Feeling optimistic about a future event	She felt hopeful about the upcoming exam after studying hard.
Lonely	Sad because one has no company	He felt lonely after his best friend moved to another school.
Fearful	Feeling afraid or worried	She was fearful of speaking in front of the class.
Sympathetic	Showing understanding or concern for someone else’s feelings	She was sympathetic when her friend was feeling sad.
Enthusiastic	Showing intense interest or enjoyment	He was enthusiastic about joining the school basketball team.
Humble	Having or showing a modest opinion of one’s importance	Despite winning the competition, she remained humble and thanked her team.
Responsible	Having the duty to deal with something or someone	It is important to be responsible for completing your homework on time.
Joyful	Full of happiness and joy	The joyful celebration lasted all afternoon.
Determined	Firmly resolved to achieve something, despite difficulties	She was determined to finish her project by the end of the week.
Attentive	Paying close attention to something	The attentive student always listens carefully during class.
Cheerful	Noticeably happy and optimistic	Her cheerful attitude made everyone around her smile.
Forgiving	Ready and willing to forgive	Even after the argument, she was forgiving and made peace with her friend.
Respectful	Showing politeness or consideration for others	He was respectful toward his teachers and classmates.
Considerate	Showing concern for the needs or feelings of others	It is considerate to help someone when they are carrying heavy bags.
Assignment	A task or piece of work given to someone, typically as part of learning	Our teacher gave us an assignment to write a short story.
Explore	To travel through or search an area for the purpose of discovery	We explored different topics for our science project.
Experiment	A scientific test to learn something new or prove a hypothesis	We did an experiment in class to see how plants grow.
Observe	To watch carefully and take note of what is happening	We were asked to observe the changes in the plant over a week.
Solution	The answer to a problem or question	After thinking for a while, she found a solution to the math problem.
Strategy	A plan of action designed to achieve a specific goal	He used a new strategy to solve the puzzle faster.
Discover	To find something unexpectedly or during a search	During our nature walk, we discovered a new type of insect.
Textbook	A book used for the study of a subject	We used our textbook to revise for the science exam.
Research	The detailed study of a subject to find new information	We did research on the history of Singapore for our project.
Calculate	To determine the value of something using mathematics	We had to calculate the distance between two points in our geometry class.
Create	To bring something new into existence	The art teacher asked us to create a painting based on our imagination.
Organize	To arrange or put things in a particular order	I organized my notes so I could study better for the exam.
Revise	To review and make changes to improve something	The teacher asked us to revise our essays before submitting them.
Plan	To decide on and arrange the details of something in advance	We made a plan for how we would complete the group project.
Present	To show or explain something to others	We presented our findings to the class after our research.
Discuss	To talk about something in detail	We discussed the different ways to solve the math problem.
Solve	To find the answer to a problem	He solved the difficult puzzle in just a few minutes.
Participate	To take part in an activity or event	All students were encouraged to participate in the school play.
Analyze	To examine something in detail in order to understand it better	We analyzed the results of the experiment in science class.
Vocabulary	The body of words used in a particular language or subject	Expanding your vocabulary helps improve your writing skills.
Definition	A statement that explains the meaning of a word or phrase	The teacher asked us to write the definition of each new vocabulary word.
Revision	The process of reviewing and making changes to improve knowledge or work	We spent the weekend doing revision for the English test.
Schedule	A plan for carrying out a process or procedure, including a time frame	The teacher gave us a schedule for our study sessions.
Task	A piece of work to be done or undertaken	Our task today is to complete the worksheet.
Feedback	Information or comments on how well something is done	The teacher gave me feedback on how to improve my essay.
Forest	A large area covered chiefly with trees and undergrowth	We went on a hike through the forest last weekend.
Ocean	A very large body of salt water that covers most of the Earth’s surface	The ocean is home to many fascinating sea creatures.
River	A large, flowing body of water that usually leads to a sea or ocean	We saw a beautiful bridge across the river.
Mountain	A large natural elevation of the Earth’s surface rising abruptly	The mountain was covered in snow at its peak.
Volcano	A mountain with a crater through which lava, ash, and gases erupt	The volcano had been dormant for many years before it erupted.
Island	A piece of land surrounded by water	We took a boat trip to the small island off the coast.
Desert	A dry, barren area of land, typically covered with sand	The desert was vast and seemingly endless, with very little vegetation.
Climate	The long-term weather conditions in a particular area	Singapore has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and rainfall.
Habitat	The natural environment where an animal or plant lives	The rainforest is the natural habitat of many exotic animals.
Pollution	The introduction of harmful substances into the environment	We must reduce air pollution to protect the Earth.
Endangered	At risk of becoming extinct	Pandas are an endangered species that need our protection.
Preserve	To protect something from harm or destruction	We must preserve our forests to ensure they last for future generations.
Biodiversity	The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat	The biodiversity of the rainforest is essential for the planet’s health.
Ecosystem	A community of living organisms and their physical environment	A coral reef is a marine ecosystem that supports many species.
Deforestation	The action of clearing a wide area of trees	Deforestation can lead to the loss of animal habitats.
Sustainable	Capable of being maintained over the long term without harming the environment	We need to switch to sustainable farming practices to protect the soil.
Recycle	To convert waste into reusable material	It is important to recycle plastic to reduce pollution.
Conservation	The protection of natural resources to prevent depletion	Conservation efforts have helped save endangered animals.
Renewable	A natural resource that can be replaced or replenished	Solar and wind power are examples of renewable energy sources.
Litter	Waste material thrown away in public places	We should never litter and always throw rubbish in the bin.
Greenhouse Effect	The trapping of the sun’s warmth in the Earth’s lower atmosphere	The greenhouse effect is causing global temperatures to rise.
Compost	Decayed organic material used as a plant fertilizer	We use compost in our garden to help our plants grow.
Flora	The plants of a particular region, habitat, or geological period	The flora in the tropical rainforest is incredibly diverse.
Fauna	The animals of a particular region, habitat, or geological period	The fauna in the Australian outback includes kangaroos and emus.
Extinct	A species, family, or larger group having no living members	The dodo bird became extinct due to hunting and habitat destruction.

Character Traits Vocabulary List (255 Words) – Source: eduKate Singapore

This list is useful for composition writing. Meanings and examples are not provided in the source.

Word	Meaning	Example
Active	N/A	N/A
Adaptable	N/A	N/A
Adventurous	N/A	N/A
Affable	N/A	N/A
Affectionate	N/A	N/A
Agreeable	N/A	N/A
Aggressive	N/A	N/A
Ambitious	N/A	N/A
Amicable	N/A	N/A
Amusing	N/A	N/A
Annoying	N/A	N/A
Arrogant	N/A	N/A
Articulate	N/A	N/A
Athletic	N/A	N/A
Awkward	N/A	N/A
Boastful	N/A	N/A
Bold	N/A	N/A
Bossy	N/A	N/A
Brave	N/A	N/A
Brash	N/A	N/A
Bright	N/A	N/A
Bored	N/A	N/A
Broad-minded	N/A	N/A
Calm	N/A	N/A
Careful	N/A	N/A
Careless	N/A	N/A
Caring	N/A	N/A
Cautious	N/A	N/A
Charming	N/A	N/A
Chatty	N/A	N/A
Cheerful	N/A	N/A
Clean	N/A	N/A
Clumsy	N/A	N/A
Colorful	N/A	N/A
Communicative	N/A	N/A
Compassionate	N/A	N/A
Complex	N/A	N/A
Complete	N/A	N/A
Conceited	N/A	N/A
Confident	N/A	N/A
Considerate	N/A	N/A
Conscientious	N/A	N/A
Cooperative	N/A	N/A
Courageous	N/A	N/A
Courteous	N/A	N/A
Cowardly	N/A	N/A
Creative	N/A	N/A
Curious	N/A	N/A
Dainty	N/A	N/A
Daring	N/A	N/A
Dark	N/A	N/A
Decisive	N/A	N/A
Defiant	N/A	N/A
Delusional	N/A	N/A
Demanding	N/A	N/A
Determined	N/A	N/A
Devastated	N/A	N/A
Devout	N/A	N/A
Disgruntled	N/A	N/A
Discerning	N/A	N/A
Diligent	N/A	N/A
Diplomatic	N/A	N/A
Discreet	N/A	N/A
Dynamic	N/A	N/A
Eager	N/A	N/A
Easy-going	N/A	N/A
Efficient	N/A	N/A
Embarrassed	N/A	N/A
Empathic	N/A	N/A
Emotional	N/A	N/A
Enjoyable	N/A	N/A
Enthusiastic	N/A	N/A
Energetic	N/A	N/A
Excited	N/A	N/A
Exuberant	N/A	N/A
Fair	N/A	N/A
Faithful	N/A	N/A
Fanatical	N/A	N/A
Fancy	N/A	N/A
Fashionable	N/A	N/A
Fearless	N/A	N/A
Fighter	N/A	N/A
Forceful	N/A	N/A
Forgiving	N/A	N/A
Frank	N/A	N/A
Free spirited	N/A	N/A
Friendly	N/A	N/A
Frustrated	N/A	N/A
Fun-loving	N/A	N/A
Funny	N/A	N/A
Generous	N/A	N/A
Gentle	N/A	N/A
Giving	N/A	N/A
Gorgeous	N/A	N/A
Good	N/A	N/A
Gracious	N/A	N/A
Gregarious	N/A	N/A
Grumpy	N/A	N/A
Grouchy	N/A	N/A
Handsome	N/A	N/A
Happy	N/A	N/A
Hard-working	N/A	N/A
Helpful	N/A	N/A
Honest	N/A	N/A
Hopeful	N/A	N/A
Humble	N/A	N/A
Humorous	N/A	N/A
Idealist	N/A	N/A
Imaginative	N/A	N/A
Impartial	N/A	N/A
Impulsive	N/A	N/A
Independent	N/A	N/A
Intelligent	N/A	N/A
Intellectual	N/A	N/A
Intuitive	N/A	N/A
Inventive	N/A	N/A
Jealous	N/A	N/A
Joyful	N/A	N/A
Judgmental	N/A	N/A
Keen	N/A	N/A
Kind	N/A	N/A
Knowledgeable	N/A	N/A
Lazy	N/A	N/A
Leader	N/A	N/A
Light-hearted	N/A	N/A
Likeable	N/A	N/A
Lively	N/A	N/A
Lovable	N/A	N/A
Loving	N/A	N/A
Loyal	N/A	N/A
Loud	N/A	N/A
Lucky	N/A	N/A
Manipulative	N/A	N/A
Materialistic	N/A	N/A
Mature	N/A	N/A
Mean	N/A	N/A
Melancholy	N/A	N/A
Messy	N/A	N/A
Mischievous	N/A	N/A
Modest	N/A	N/A
Moody	N/A	N/A
Naïve	N/A	N/A
Nasty	N/A	N/A
Neat	N/A	N/A
Nervous	N/A	N/A
Nice	N/A	N/A
Noisy	N/A	N/A
Noble	N/A	N/A
Obnoxious	N/A	N/A
Opinionated	N/A	N/A
Organized	N/A	N/A
Outgoing	N/A	N/A
Optimistic	N/A	N/A
Passive	N/A	N/A
Passionate	N/A	N/A
Patient	N/A	N/A
Patriotic	N/A	N/A
Pessimistic	N/A	N/A
Perfectionist	N/A	N/A
Personable	N/A	N/A
Persistent	N/A	N/A
Pitiful	N/A	N/A
Pioneering	N/A	N/A
Philosophical	N/A	N/A
Plain	N/A	N/A
Placid	N/A	N/A
Pleasant	N/A	N/A
Pleasing	N/A	N/A
Plucky	N/A	N/A
Poor	N/A	N/A
Polite	N/A	N/A
Popular	N/A	N/A
Powerful	N/A	N/A
Practical	N/A	N/A
Pretty	N/A	N/A
Prim	N/A	N/A
Pro-active	N/A	N/A
Proper	N/A	N/A
Proud	N/A	N/A
Questionable	N/A	N/A
Quick-witted	N/A	N/A
Quicksilver	N/A	N/A
Quiet	N/A	N/A
Radical	N/A	N/A
Rational	N/A	N/A
Realistic	N/A	N/A
Rebellious	N/A	N/A
Reflective	N/A	N/A
Relaxed	N/A	N/A
Reliable	N/A	N/A
Religious	N/A	N/A
Reserved	N/A	N/A
Respectful	N/A	N/A
Responsible	N/A	N/A
Resourceful	N/A	N/A
Reverent	N/A	N/A
Rich	N/A	N/A
Rigid	N/A	N/A
Romantic	N/A	N/A
Rude	N/A	N/A
Sad	N/A	N/A
Sarcastic	N/A	N/A
Self-confident	N/A	N/A
Self-conscious	N/A	N/A
Self-disciplined	N/A	N/A
Selfish	N/A	N/A
Sensible	N/A	N/A
Sensitive	N/A	N/A
Serious	N/A	N/A
Sharp	N/A	N/A
Short	N/A	N/A
Shy	N/A	N/A
Silly	N/A	N/A
Simple	N/A	N/A
Simple-minded	N/A	N/A
Sincere	N/A	N/A
Smart	N/A	N/A
Sociable	N/A	N/A
Stable	N/A	N/A
Straightforward	N/A	N/A
Strong	N/A	N/A
Stubborn	N/A	N/A
Studious	N/A	N/A
Stupid	N/A	N/A
Successful	N/A	N/A
Sympathetic	N/A	N/A
Swift	N/A	N/A
Tall	N/A	N/A
Tantalizing	N/A	N/A
Tender	N/A	N/A
Tense	N/A	N/A
Thoughtful	N/A	N/A
Thrilling	N/A	N/A
Tidy	N/A	N/A
Timid	N/A	N/A
Tireless	N/A	N/A
Tolerant	N/A	N/A
Tough	N/A	N/A
Tricky	N/A	N/A
Trickster	N/A	N/A
Trusting	N/A	N/A
Ugly	N/A	N/A
Unassuming	N/A	N/A
Understanding	N/A	N/A
Unhappy	N/A	N/A
Unique	N/A	N/A
Unlucky	N/A	N/A
Vain	N/A	N/A
Versatile	N/A	N/A
Warm	N/A	N/A
Warm hearted	N/A	N/A
Wild	N/A	N/A
Willing	N/A	N/A
Wise	N/A	N/A
Witty	N/A	N/A

Exam-Specific Vocabulary List (Nan Hua Primary School SA1) – Source: Thinking Factory

This short list is from a school exam paper, with meanings.

Word	Meaning	Example
Chide	Scold or rebuke	N/A
Interrogate	Ask questions closely, aggressively, or formally	N/A
Commend	To formally praise someone or something	N/A
A board (of)	A group of people who control and direct a company	N/A
Onlookers	Someone who watches something in a public place but is not involved in it	N/A
Spectators	A person who watches a show, game, or other event	N/A
Witness	A person who sees an event, typically a crime or accident, take place	N/A
Called off	Postpone	N/A
Carry out	To complete a job or activity	N/A
Turn down	To reject or refuse something	N/A
On the dot	Exactly on time	N/A
A dead duck	No chance to succeed	N/A
Over one’s head	Beyond someone’s ability to understand	N/A
Breaking one’s back	To put a great deal of effort into something	N/A