Word
precipitated
Phoneticspre·cip·i·tat·ed, stress on the second syllable
US/pɹɪˈsɪpɪˌteɪtɪd/
UK/pɹɪsˈɪpɪtˌeɪtɪd/
Definition
v. to cause something to happen suddenly and quickly, often in a way that is difficult to stop. You use this when one event leads to a much bigger or more serious one.
v. to cause something to happen suddenly and rapidly, often in a way that is difficult to control or reverse. Frequently used in formal or academic contexts to describe the onset of a crisis or significant change.
Examples
“The heavy rain precipitated a flood in the valley.”
“The sudden drop in oil prices precipitated a global economic crisis that lasted for several years.”
“The failure of the initial negotiations precipitated a series of diplomatic maneuvers that eventually led to the signing of the peace treaty.”
Examples
simple
“The heavy rain precipitated a flood in the valley.”
contextual
“The sudden drop in oil prices precipitated a global economic crisis that lasted for several years.”
complex
“The failure of the initial negotiations precipitated a series of diplomatic maneuvers that eventually led to the signing of the peace treaty.”
Real-World Examples
“Some of Netanyahu’s detractors have alleged that the funds were used to help Hamas prepare its October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which precipitated its genocidal war on Gaza.” “New satellite imagery added to scientists’ understanding of the events that precipitated the deadly flooding in Nepal and Tibet.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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