TOEFL® Vocabulary Flashcard

Award-winning is an adjective used to describe something that has won a prize or prizes in competitions. This term is often applied to books, movies, music, and other forms of art, but can also refer to products, services, or even individuals in various fields who have received recognition. The adjective highlights the recognition and quality of the subject being described, adding a sense of prestige and accomplishment.

• She is an award-winning author known for her innovative storytelling.

• The restaurant gained a reputation after receiving several award-winning accolades.

• His latest film is an award-winning masterpiece that has been praised by critics worldwide.

A Box office hit typically refers to a film that generates significantly higher revenue than its production and marketing costs, making it highly profitable. These films often attract large audiences and receive extensive media coverage, contributing to their financial success.

• "Avatar" became a box office hit, earning billions worldwide.

• The film was not only a critical success but also a box office hit.

• Every summer, studios release what they hope will be the next big box office hit. 

Cameo appearances have become a popular way for films and TV shows to add an element of surprise or humor, often featuring a well-known personality or actor in a small, sometimes uncredited role. These appearances can be a nod to fans, a humorous insertion, or a way to connect different works within the same universe.

• Stan Lee made a cameo in almost every Marvel movie.

• The director's cameo in her own film was a delightful surprise for the audience.

• Can you spot the celebrity cameo in this episode? 

Crowd-pleasers are often characterized by their universal appeal and ability to connect with a diverse audience. Whether it's through humor, impressive performances, or relatable content, these individuals or elements have a knack for winning over the crowd and creating a positive, inclusive atmosphere. They are especially valuable in entertainment, politics, and any field that involves public engagement.

• The comedian was a real crowd-pleaser, keeping everyone laughing throughout the evening.

• She always knows how to be a crowd-pleaser at parties with her engaging stories.

• The movie turned out to be a major crowd-pleaser, appealing to audiences of all ages. 

In-seat delivery is a service designed to enhance the experience of attendees at various venues by allowing them to order and receive food, beverages, or merchandise directly to their seats. This service is particularly popular in large venues such as sports stadiums and concert halls, where leaving your seat might mean missing important action or performances. It not only maximizes the attendees' enjoyment and convenience but also helps in managing crowd flow and reducing queues.

• The idea of in-seat food delivery is for fans to sit in their seats, download an app on their mobile device that would allow them to be able to view and purchase items inside the stadium. This would include food and beverages from most concession stands and even other gourmet products, and then a server would show up within minutes to deliver the order. 

• The stadium offers in-seat delivery, so you can enjoy the game without missing a moment.

• With in-seat delivery, you no longer have to wait in long lines for your snacks and drinks.

The phrase "on the edge of one's seat" vividly describes the state of heightened anticipation and alertness. It is often used in contexts where suspense, thrill, or intense interest is involved. The imagery suggests that one is so captivated or anxious that they literally sit forward on their seat, ready to react or eager to see what happens next.

• The movie was so thrilling that I was on the edge of my seat the whole time.

• Everyone was on the edge of their seats during the final moments of the game.

• The suspenseful story kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end.

The phrase "out of this world" is often used to describe something that is exceptionally good or impressive. It suggests that the quality or experience is so extraordinary that it seems as if it is not from this Earth. This expression is commonly used in casual conversation to express admiration or surprise at the excellence of something.

• The taste of the homemade ice cream was out of this world.

• Her performance in the play was out of this world; everyone was impressed.

• The graphics in the new video game are truly out of this world. 

Premier, as a noun, often refers to the prime minister or head of government in many countries. When used as an adjective, it denotes something that is first in importance or order. The term is frequently used in contexts such as premier events, premier editions, or when referring to top officials like a premier.

• The premier issue of the magazine was a huge success.

• He met with the premier to discuss the new trade policies.

• The film had its premier screening at the festival.

A prequel is a narrative work that precedes the events of the main story, providing additional background and context to the characters and setting. It often helps to enrich the story world and deepen the audience's understanding of the narrative. Prequels can be found in various media, including books, films, and video games.

• The movie studio released a prequel to give fans more background on the hero's origins.

• She wrote a prequel to her popular novel series, which explores the earlier lives of the main characters.

• Fans were excited when the author announced a prequel, hoping to learn more about the world before the events of the original series. 

Sequels are a popular way for creators to continue the story or expand the universe of an original work. They can be seen across various media, including movies, books, and video games. While some sequels are highly anticipated and succeed in extending the legacy of their predecessors, others might not live up to the expectations set by the original, leading to mixed reactions from audiences and critics.

• Many fans were eagerly waiting for the sequels to their favorite movie series.

• The author announced that he is working on sequels to his bestselling novel.

• Sequels often try to capture the original's charm, but not all succeed in doing so.

Special effects are techniques used in various forms of media to create images or sounds that enhance the natural capabilities of film, video, and audio presentations. They can be as simple as makeup and costumes or as complex as computer-generated imagery (CGI) and motion capture technologies. The purpose of special effects is often to make the impossible look real or to enhance the storytelling elements of the media.

• The movie used advanced special effects to create realistic dinosaurs.

• Special effects in modern films can include both practical effects and digital enhancements.

• The director is known for his innovative use of special effects in action sequences.

The phrase "top of the chart" is used to denote the highest position on a ranking system, often highlighting the popularity or success of an item or individual in a competitive context. It is a marker of achievement and recognition in various fields, particularly in entertainment and publishing.

• Her new album hit the top of the chart within a week of its release.

• The movie was at the top of the box office chart for three consecutive weeks.

• Being at the top of the chart is every artist's dream.