Academic Vocabulary Mastery - Intermediate

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Analyze

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To examine methodically and in detail the constitution or structure of something. *Example: We must **analyze** the data to find the underlying trend.* *Etymology: From Greek *analyein* 'to release, loosen', from *ana-* 'up, throughout' + *lyein* 'to unfasten'. Literally to 'break up' or 'unloose' a complex topic.*

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Concept

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An abstract idea; a general notion or thought that is fundamental to understanding a subject. *Example: The **concept** of supply and demand is central to economics.* *Etymology: From Latin *conceptum* 'something conceived', from *concipere* 'to take in, conceive'. Related to 'conception' and 'conceive'.*

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Evaluate

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To judge or determine the significance, worth, or quality of something after careful assessment. *Example: You need to **evaluate** the sources to determine if they are reliable.* *Etymology: From French *évaluer*, from *evaluer* 'to find the value of', based on Latin *valere* 'be strong, be worth'. Combines 'ex-' (out) with 'value'.*

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Establish

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To set up, create, or found something on a firm, lasting basis. It can also mean to prove or confirm that something is true.

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Factor

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A circumstance, fact, or influence that contributes to a result or outcome. *Example: Cost was a major **factor** in our decision not to buy the house.* *Etymology: From Latin *factor* 'doer, maker', from *facere* 'to do, make'. In mathematics, it refers to numbers multiplied together to get a product.*