TOEFL® Vocabulary Flashcard

Creamer is a popular addition to coffee and tea, offering a creamy texture and often a hint of sweetness. It can be made from dairy products like milk or cream, or from non-dairy alternatives such as soy, almond, or coconut bases. This versatility makes creamer suitable for various dietary preferences and needs.

• Can you pass me the creamer, please?

• I prefer using almond creamer in my coffee for a healthier option.

• Do we have any creamer left, or should I buy some? 

The term "daily-free" often refers to products, services, or information provided without charge on a daily basis. This marketing strategy is commonly used to increase customer engagement, introduce new users to a service, or add value to existing offerings. It is especially prevalent in digital content delivery, where companies can distribute materials at low cost.

• Many online services offer daily-free games to attract new users.

• The restaurant features a daily-free dessert for customers who order a main course.

• She signed up for a newsletter that provides daily-free tips on digital marketing. 

Fair-trade is not just a label; it's a comprehensive approach to business and trading that aims to make commerce more equitable and sustainable. By adhering to fair-trade practices, companies and consumers can contribute to the fight against poverty, exploitation, and environmental degradation in producer countries.

• Many consumers prefer buying fair-trade coffee to support growers in developing countries.

• Fair-trade products often carry a slightly higher price tag, reflecting the fair wages paid to the workers.

• The fair-trade movement seeks to promote greater equity in international trading partnerships. 

Fresh is commonly used to describe something that is newly made or obtained, not stale or old. It can refer to food, like fruits, vegetables, and meats that are newly harvested or prepared. Fresh can also describe other things like ideas, which are new and not derived from something previously existing. Additionally, it can describe air or experience, suggesting qualities of purity, briskness, or invigoration.

• The fish at the market is always fresh.

• I love the fresh air in the mountains.

• He always has a fresh perspective on things. 

Frozen is used to describe something that has been turned into ice or become very cold and hard, usually as a result of being exposed to very low temperatures. It can refer to water or other liquids that have solidified, as well as to technology or mechanical devices that have stopped functioning because they are too cold or have stopped responding.

• The lake was frozen solid enough to skate on.

• They found a frozen mammoth preserved in the ice.

• My computer screen is frozen; it won't respond to any commands. 

Gluten-free refers to foods and products that do not contain gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and triticale. This term is particularly important for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, as consuming gluten can cause health issues for them. Gluten-free products are becoming more widely available as awareness of gluten-related disorders increases.

• Many restaurants now offer gluten-free options on their menus.

• She switched to a gluten-free diet and her digestive problems improved significantly.

• Look for the gluten-free label when shopping for pasta.

Ground beef is a versatile ingredient commonly used in various cuisines around the world. It is made by grinding beef cuts, usually with a machine, into small pieces. This form of beef is popular in many dishes due to its rich flavor and relatively low cost. It can be cooked in many ways, including frying, baking, and boiling, making it a staple in many household kitchens.

• I used ground beef to make the meatballs for the spaghetti.

• Make sure to cook the ground beef thoroughly to avoid any foodborne illness.

• Ground beef is often mixed with spices and other seasonings to enhance its flavor. 

Lactose-free products are designed for individuals who are lactose intolerant. These products do not contain lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products, which can cause digestive problems for some people. By removing or altering the lactose content, these foods become more digestible for those with lactose intolerance.

• Many supermarkets now offer a range of lactose-free milk and dairy products.

• She switched to lactose-free yogurt and noticed an improvement in her digestion.

• Are there any lactose-free options on the menu? 

Non-GMO refers to products that are produced without genetic engineering or the use of genetically modified organisms. The term is commonly found on food packaging to reassure consumers that the food product does not contain genetically modified ingredients. As awareness and concern about the potential health and environmental impacts of GMOs grow, the demand for non-GMO products has increased, leading to more non-GMO labels appearing in markets.

• Many consumers prefer non-GMO products because they believe they are healthier.

• The label says it's a non-GMO food, which aligns with our dietary restrictions.

• Restaurants that offer non-GMO options are becoming increasingly popular. 

“Organic” as an adjective primarily describes products or processes that are natural or related to nature. In agriculture, organic refers to a method of farming that does not use artificial chemicals like pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. Instead, it relies on natural processes and biological diversity to maintain soil fertility and control pests. The term is also used in chemistry to describe compounds that contain carbon, distinguishing them from inorganic compounds which do not contain carbon.

• She only buys organic fruits and vegetables to avoid pesticides.

• The increase in sales of organic products shows a shift in consumer preferences.

• Organic compounds contain carbon and are studied extensively in chemistry. 

Paella is a classic Spanish dish that has gained international fame. It originated in the Valencia region of Spain, and its primary ingredients reflect the agricultural richness of the area. Traditionally, paella is cooked outdoors and eaten directly from the pan. It is a social dish, often enjoyed during gatherings and special occasions.

• We had a delicious seafood paella at the Spanish restaurant.

• Paella is best when cooked in a traditional shallow pan.

• Can you cook paella with chicken instead of seafood? 

The term "pesticide-free" is used to describe products, especially agricultural goods, that are grown without the use of pesticides. This includes synthetic chemicals as well as other substances that are typically used to kill pests. Pesticide-free products are sought after for their perceived safety and environmental benefits. They are often labeled as such to attract consumers who are concerned about the potential health risks associated with pesticide residues in food.

• Many consumers prefer pesticide-free fruits and vegetables for their health benefits.  

• The market for pesticide-free produce has grown significantly in recent years.   
  
  

• Farmers who produce pesticide-free crops often use alternative methods like biological pest control. 

Rice is a cereal grain that is a fundamental food in many cultural cuisines globally. It is the seed of a grass species scientifically known as Oryza sativa (Asian rice) or Oryza glaberrima (African rice). As a versatile food ingredient, rice can be cooked in various ways and is key to many types of dishes like risotto, sushi, and paella. It is also processed into products like rice flour and rice syrup.

• Rice is a staple food in many countries around the world.

• She cooked the rice perfectly, and it was neither too dry nor too sticky.

• Can you pass the rice, please? 

Ripe is an adjective commonly used to describe fruits or crops that have reached a stage of maturity making them ready for consumption or processing. It can also refer to other things being in a state of readiness or full development, such as a ripe opportunity or a situation being ripe for change. The term captures both the physical readiness of natural produce and the metaphorical readiness of situations or opportunities.

• The bananas are not ripe enough to eat yet.

• We should wait until the time is ripe before we launch the new product.

• The tomatoes will be ripe and ready for harvest next week. 

Sodium is a metallic element that is highly reactive and soft. It is essential for all living beings as it helps regulate fluid balance and blood pressure. However, it is rarely found in its pure form in nature because it reacts quickly with other elements. Most people know sodium from its most common compound, table salt, which is used in cooking and as a food preservative.

• Excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure.

• This food is low in sodium and suitable for a heart-healthy diet.

• Sodium is essential for nerve and muscle function. 

Swiss cheese is a type of cheese that originates from Switzerland and is known for its distinctive large holes. These holes, or "eyes," are formed by the activity of bacteria during the cheese-making process, which release gases that become trapped in the cheese. Swiss cheese is often used in dishes that require a mild, nutty flavor and a smooth melting texture.

• I love adding Swiss cheese to my sandwiches because it's so flavorful.

• Swiss cheese melts beautifully, making it perfect for fondue.

• Can you buy some Swiss cheese from the store? 

Wild-caught refers to animals, particularly fish and seafood, that are captured directly from their natural environments, such as oceans, rivers, and lakes, rather than being raised in captivity or farmed conditions. This term is often used to highlight the natural sourcing and perceived higher quality of such products. Many people believe that wild-caught seafood is not only more flavorful but also offers ecological benefits by supporting more sustainable fishing practices.

• Many chefs prefer using wild-caught fish for their dishes to ensure freshness and quality.

• Wild-caught salmon is often considered more nutritious and tastier than farm-raised salmon.

• Consumers are increasingly looking for wild-caught seafood to avoid the chemicals and antibiotics used in aquaculture.