Set 1
VOCABULARY
caveat
rationale
discrepancy
implication
constraint
nuance
stance
undermine
substantiate
inherent
Set 1
1. caveat
Meaning: A warning, limit, or condition added to an idea.
When we use it: Use it when you mostly agree, but there is one concern or exception.
How we use it: with one caveat / there is a caveat / the main caveat is
Examples:
I agree with the plan, with one caveat.
The main caveat is that we need more time.
2. rationale
Meaning: The reason or thinking behind a decision.
When we use it: Use it when explaining why something was done.
How we use it: the rationale for / the rationale behind / explain the rationale
Examples:
What was the rationale for changing the schedule?
She explained the rationale behind the new policy.
3. discrepancy
Meaning: A difference between things that should match.
When we use it: Use it when facts, numbers, reports, or details do not agree.
How we use it: a discrepancy between / notice a discrepancy / explain the discrepancy
Examples:
There is a discrepancy between the report and the invoice.
We noticed a small discrepancy in the numbers.
4. implication
Meaning: A possible meaning, effect, or result.
When we use it: Use it when talking about what something may lead to or suggest.
How we use it: the implication is / serious implications / the implication of
Examples:
The implication is that the deadline may change.
This decision could have long-term implications.
5. constraint
Meaning: A limit or restriction.
When we use it: Use it when something limits what can be done.
How we use it: time constraint / budget constraint / under constraints
Examples:
The biggest constraint is the budget.
We had to finish the project under strict time constraints.
6. nuance
Meaning: A small but important difference in meaning, tone, or feeling.
When we use it: Use it when something is not simple or obvious.
How we use it: a nuance in / understand the nuance / subtle nuance
Examples:
There is a nuance in her wording that changes the meaning.
He understood the nuance of the situation.
7. stance
Meaning: A position or opinion about something.
When we use it: Use it when describing what someone believes or supports.
How we use it: take a stance / clear stance / stance on
Examples:
She took a clear stance on the issue.
His stance was firm but respectful.
8. undermine
Meaning: To weaken, damage, or reduce confidence in something.
When we use it: Use it when something hurts trust, progress, authority, or confidence.
How we use it: undermine confidence / undermine trust / undermine progress
Examples:
That comment could undermine the team’s confidence.
Poor communication can undermine trust.
9. substantiate
Meaning: To prove or support something with evidence.
When we use it: Use it when a claim needs proof.
How we use it: substantiate a claim / substantiate an argument / substantiate with evidence
Examples:
Can you substantiate that claim with examples?
The report substantiates the main point.
10. inherent
Meaning: Naturally part of something.
When we use it: Use it when a quality or risk exists because of the nature of something.
How we use it: inherent risk / inherent problem / inherent value
Examples:
There are inherent risks in starting quickly.
The process has some inherent limitations.
