Vocabulary Lessons

Whether you are searching for the ideal date or marriage partner or just someone to work for you part-time, identifying ideal personality traits is key to successful relationships. Listen to the words below and consult a dictionary if you need a definition. Write a sample sentence for each word to learn how it is used in context. You can use the Internet to find such sentences.

A. Listen to the recording and answer the questions.

1. ambitious – unmotivated
2. generous – stingy
3. hardworking – lazy
4. honest – dishonest
5. humble – bigheaded
6. independent – dependent
7. kind – inconsiderate
8. nervous – calm
9. open-minded – close-minded
10. optimistic – pessimistic
11. outgoing – shy
12. punctual – late
13. reliable – unreliable
14. talkative – quiet
15. unselfish – self-centered

• I like someone who is ___________ because ________.
• I enjoy being around people who are _______ because _______.
• I can’t stand people who are _______ because _________.

Think of three things to describe the ideal boss, roommate, and partner. Use the vocabulary and expressions above to explain your ideas.