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TOEFL iBT Reading Sample Test – Factual Information Question Type with deep answer key – Sample No. 7
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July 27, 2025
Factual Information Multiple-Choice Questions (TOEFL Reading Tutorial – Endangered Animals & Conservation)
What are Factual Information Questions?
These questions test if you can find, understand, and remember facts from the reading passage. You will pick the best answer based on what the text says or clearly shows.
Factual information questions are very common in TOEFL and IELTS Reading, so mastering them is key to a high score!
These questions test if you can find, understand, and remember facts from the reading passage. You will pick the best answer based on what the text says or clearly shows.
Factual information questions are very common in TOEFL and IELTS Reading, so mastering them is key to a high score!
How to Answer Factual Information Multiple-Choice Questions – Step by Step
1
Read the Question Carefully:
First, read the question and every answer option completely.
Example: "According to paragraph 3, why are tigers considered endangered?"
First, read the question and every answer option completely.
Example: "According to paragraph 3, why are tigers considered endangered?"
2
Find the Key Words in the Question:
Underline or note the key words. These show you what facts to find.
Example: Key words: tigers, endangered, paragraph 3.
Underline or note the key words. These show you what facts to find.
Example: Key words: tigers, endangered, paragraph 3.
3
Scan the Passage:
Go to the paragraph mentioned, or scan the text for your key words or their synonyms.
Skimming helps you find where the information is.
Go to the paragraph mentioned, or scan the text for your key words or their synonyms.
Skimming helps you find where the information is.
4
Read Around the Key Information:
Read the sentence with the key word, and a few lines before and after.
Make sure you know what is stated directly or implied.
Read the sentence with the key word, and a few lines before and after.
Make sure you know what is stated directly or implied.
5
Compare the Answer Choices:
Look at each answer and match it with the passage.
Example: If the text says, "Tigers are endangered because of habitat loss," then the correct answer must match this.
Look at each answer and match it with the passage.
Example: If the text says, "Tigers are endangered because of habitat loss," then the correct answer must match this.
6
Eliminate Wrong Answers:
Cross out answers that are not mentioned, are opposite, or do not fit the facts.
Usually, two or more options are clearly wrong.
Cross out answers that are not mentioned, are opposite, or do not fit the facts.
Usually, two or more options are clearly wrong.
7
Choose the Best Answer:
Pick the answer that matches the text exactly.
If two seem similar, choose the most complete and accurate one.
Pick the answer that matches the text exactly.
If two seem similar, choose the most complete and accurate one.
8
Double-Check Your Choice:
Make sure your answer is supported by facts from the passage.
Do not use your own ideas – only information from the text!
Make sure your answer is supported by facts from the passage.
Do not use your own ideas – only information from the text!
Example Question:
Sample Question:
"Why are pandas considered endangered?"
Choices:
(A) They eat too much meat.
(B) Their habitats are being destroyed.
(C) They live in large groups.
(D) They migrate every year.
Correct Answer: (B) Their habitats are being destroyed.
Explanation: The passage says pandas lose their homes due to deforestation, so option B is correct.
"Why are pandas considered endangered?"
Choices:
(A) They eat too much meat.
(B) Their habitats are being destroyed.
(C) They live in large groups.
(D) They migrate every year.
Correct Answer: (B) Their habitats are being destroyed.
Explanation: The passage says pandas lose their homes due to deforestation, so option B is correct.
Reading Passage: Endangered Animals and Conservation
Paragraph 1:
Across the world, animals play an important role in keeping nature balanced. Many species are common and healthy, but some animals face serious threats that put their future in danger. These animals are called endangered species. When a species becomes endangered, it means there are very few of them left in the wild, and they risk disappearing forever. Understanding why animals become endangered and how people can help is essential for the future of our planet.
Across the world, animals play an important role in keeping nature balanced. Many species are common and healthy, but some animals face serious threats that put their future in danger. These animals are called endangered species. When a species becomes endangered, it means there are very few of them left in the wild, and they risk disappearing forever. Understanding why animals become endangered and how people can help is essential for the future of our planet.
Paragraph 2:
There are many reasons why animals become endangered. One of the most common causes is the loss of their natural habitat. As forests are cut down, wetlands are drained, and grasslands are turned into cities or farms, animals lose the places where they find food, water, and shelter. For example, orangutans in Asia have lost large parts of their forest home due to logging and palm oil farming. Without enough space to live and eat, these animals struggle to survive.
There are many reasons why animals become endangered. One of the most common causes is the loss of their natural habitat. As forests are cut down, wetlands are drained, and grasslands are turned into cities or farms, animals lose the places where they find food, water, and shelter. For example, orangutans in Asia have lost large parts of their forest home due to logging and palm oil farming. Without enough space to live and eat, these animals struggle to survive.
Paragraph 3:
Another reason animals become endangered is poaching or illegal hunting. Some animals, like rhinos and elephants, are hunted for their horns or tusks, which are sold for high prices. Other species are taken from the wild and sold as pets or for their fur, feathers, or bones. This hunting can quickly reduce animal numbers. For example, the African elephant population has dropped dramatically in recent years because of poaching.
Another reason animals become endangered is poaching or illegal hunting. Some animals, like rhinos and elephants, are hunted for their horns or tusks, which are sold for high prices. Other species are taken from the wild and sold as pets or for their fur, feathers, or bones. This hunting can quickly reduce animal numbers. For example, the African elephant population has dropped dramatically in recent years because of poaching.
Paragraph 4:
Pollution also causes many problems for wildlife. Chemicals from farms and factories can run into rivers and lakes, making the water unsafe for animals to drink or live in. In the oceans, plastic waste is a big problem. Sea turtles and birds sometimes mistake plastic bags for food and eat them by accident. This can make them sick or even kill them. Pollution can harm both land and water animals in many different ways.
Pollution also causes many problems for wildlife. Chemicals from farms and factories can run into rivers and lakes, making the water unsafe for animals to drink or live in. In the oceans, plastic waste is a big problem. Sea turtles and birds sometimes mistake plastic bags for food and eat them by accident. This can make them sick or even kill them. Pollution can harm both land and water animals in many different ways.
Paragraph 5:
Climate change is another modern challenge for animals. As the Earth's temperature rises, some places become too hot or too dry for animals that have lived there for hundreds of years. Polar bears, for example, are finding it harder to hunt as sea ice melts earlier every year. Animals in tropical forests and coral reefs also struggle because their environments are changing faster than they can adapt.
Climate change is another modern challenge for animals. As the Earth's temperature rises, some places become too hot or too dry for animals that have lived there for hundreds of years. Polar bears, for example, are finding it harder to hunt as sea ice melts earlier every year. Animals in tropical forests and coral reefs also struggle because their environments are changing faster than they can adapt.
Paragraph 6:
Some endangered animals are well known, such as the giant panda, snow leopard, and mountain gorilla. But there are also thousands of lesser-known species at risk, like small frogs, insects, and plants. Every animal, big or small, has a unique role in the ecosystem. If a species disappears, it can affect many other living things. For example, when bees become endangered, it is not only bad for bees but also for plants and crops that depend on them for pollination.
Some endangered animals are well known, such as the giant panda, snow leopard, and mountain gorilla. But there are also thousands of lesser-known species at risk, like small frogs, insects, and plants. Every animal, big or small, has a unique role in the ecosystem. If a species disappears, it can affect many other living things. For example, when bees become endangered, it is not only bad for bees but also for plants and crops that depend on them for pollination.
Paragraph 7:
Conservation is the effort to protect and restore endangered animals and their habitats. Many organizations work to save wildlife by creating nature reserves, banning illegal hunting, and teaching people why conservation is important. For example, in India, the Bengal tiger was once close to extinction, but thanks to strong conservation laws and wildlife parks, the number of tigers has increased in recent years.
Conservation is the effort to protect and restore endangered animals and their habitats. Many organizations work to save wildlife by creating nature reserves, banning illegal hunting, and teaching people why conservation is important. For example, in India, the Bengal tiger was once close to extinction, but thanks to strong conservation laws and wildlife parks, the number of tigers has increased in recent years.
Paragraph 8:
Zoos and animal sanctuaries also play a part in conservation. They can protect endangered animals, help them breed, and sometimes release young animals back into the wild. In Australia, special programs are helping save the Tasmanian devil, a rare animal threatened by disease. Scientists and wildlife experts work together to study endangered species, understand their needs, and find ways to help them survive.
Zoos and animal sanctuaries also play a part in conservation. They can protect endangered animals, help them breed, and sometimes release young animals back into the wild. In Australia, special programs are helping save the Tasmanian devil, a rare animal threatened by disease. Scientists and wildlife experts work together to study endangered species, understand their needs, and find ways to help them survive.
Paragraph 9:
People at home can help too. Simple actions like recycling, using less plastic, planting trees, and buying products that are friendly to the environment make a difference. Supporting organizations that protect wildlife, learning about endangered species, and spreading the word are all important ways to help. Even small changes in our daily lives can have a big effect when many people work together.
People at home can help too. Simple actions like recycling, using less plastic, planting trees, and buying products that are friendly to the environment make a difference. Supporting organizations that protect wildlife, learning about endangered species, and spreading the word are all important ways to help. Even small changes in our daily lives can have a big effect when many people work together.
Paragraph 10:
There are many success stories in animal conservation. The American bald eagle, once almost extinct, is now common again thanks to strong protection and new laws. The black-footed ferret in North America and the Arabian oryx in the Middle East have both returned from the edge of extinction. These examples show that, with effort and cooperation, it is possible to save species and bring them back to healthy numbers.
There are many success stories in animal conservation. The American bald eagle, once almost extinct, is now common again thanks to strong protection and new laws. The black-footed ferret in North America and the Arabian oryx in the Middle East have both returned from the edge of extinction. These examples show that, with effort and cooperation, it is possible to save species and bring them back to healthy numbers.
Paragraph 11:
However, much work still needs to be done. Every year, new species are added to the endangered list, while others become extinct before they are even discovered. Scientists believe that today’s rate of extinction is much higher than in the past because of human activity. By understanding why animals become endangered and what conservation means, we can all be part of the solution.
However, much work still needs to be done. Every year, new species are added to the endangered list, while others become extinct before they are even discovered. Scientists believe that today’s rate of extinction is much higher than in the past because of human activity. By understanding why animals become endangered and what conservation means, we can all be part of the solution.
Paragraph 12:
In conclusion, endangered animals are not just a problem for a few countries or people—they are a worldwide concern. Protecting animals and their habitats is essential for the health of the planet and future generations. When we help save endangered species, we are also helping to protect ourselves, our environment, and the beauty of nature. Every action, no matter how small, counts in the global effort to conserve the world’s precious wildlife.
In conclusion, endangered animals are not just a problem for a few countries or people—they are a worldwide concern. Protecting animals and their habitats is essential for the health of the planet and future generations. When we help save endangered species, we are also helping to protect ourselves, our environment, and the beauty of nature. Every action, no matter how small, counts in the global effort to conserve the world’s precious wildlife.
Factual Information Multiple-Choice Questions
Read each question carefully. Choose the best answer based on the information in the passage. As soon as you select an answer, you’ll instantly see the detailed explanation below!
Answer Key & Step-by-Step Explanations
Review each answer with detailed steps below. These explanations show you exactly how to find the correct information using smart reading and matching strategies from the tutorial.
Q1: (B)
According to the passage, what is the main reason many animals become endangered?
Step 1: Start by reading the question carefully. The key phrase here is “main reason” and “animals become endangered.”
Step 2: Skim the passage for paragraphs that talk about causes of endangerment—Paragraphs 1 and 2 introduce this topic.
Step 3: Look for sentences mentioning why animals are at risk. Paragraph 2 states: “One of the most common causes is the loss of their natural habitat.”
Step 4: Compare this information to each answer choice. Only (B) matches the passage’s reason: “They lose their natural homes because of habitat destruction.”
Step 5: The other choices are not supported: (A) refers to friends, (C) mentions travel, and (D) concerns food, none of which are cited in the passage as main causes.
Step 6: Double-check by reading surrounding sentences. The example of orangutans losing forests clearly supports answer (B).
Step 7: This answer matches the step-by-step strategy from the tutorial: find key words, scan for details, check facts, and match them to choices.
Step 8: Always eliminate answers that are not in the text. In factual questions, only use what the passage tells you.
Q2: (A)
What is one effect of poaching on animals like elephants and rhinos?
Step 1: Find the question’s focus: “effect of poaching” on elephants and rhinos.
Step 2: Paragraph 3 describes illegal hunting and poaching, with clear reference to these species.
Step 3: Identify the exact effect. The passage states: “the African elephant population has dropped dramatically… because of poaching.”
Step 4: Match this with (A): “populations decrease quickly because they are hunted for their horns or tusks.”
Step 5: Exclude choices (B), (C), and (D), as these effects are not in the passage or are unrelated to poaching.
Step 6: Factual info questions often require exact details—go back to the text for confirmation.
Step 7: This answer is supported by direct evidence from the text, not outside knowledge.
Step 8: Careful matching of cause and effect is key in these questions.
Q3: (B)
Which of the following is given as a modern challenge for animals caused by climate change?
Step 1: The question is about climate change and its effects on animals.
Step 2: Paragraph 5 is devoted to this challenge.
Step 3: Find and read: “As the Earth's temperature rises, some places become too hot or too dry for animals that have lived there for hundreds of years.”
Step 4: Check the examples: polar bears struggle as sea ice melts; animals in tropical forests and coral reefs have trouble adapting.
Step 5: Compare all answers; only (B) matches the actual detail: “habitats become too hot or dry.”
Step 6: Other choices talk about diet change, moving to cities, or predator increase, which are not supported by the passage.
Step 7: Always return to the paragraph for the exact cause-and-effect.
Step 8: Eliminate all options that aren’t discussed in the passage.
Q4: (B)
How can ordinary people help endangered animals, according to the passage?
Step 1: Focus on the section about what ordinary people can do (Paragraph 9).
Step 2: The passage gives examples: recycling, using less plastic, planting trees, and supporting wildlife organizations.
Step 3: The correct answer (B) matches all these details.
Step 4: (A) Only watching animals in zoos, (C) hunting or being a ranger, and (D) keeping wild animals as pets are not listed in the passage as correct ways to help.
Step 5: Use the tutorial strategy: scan for key facts, check against all answers, and pick the one most strongly supported.
Step 6: Factual questions often use words like “how,” “what,” or “which” to test your ability to find clear details.
Step 7: Always use passage information—not your own ideas or general knowledge.
Step 8: Choose the most complete and directly supported answer.
Q5: (B)
What do the conservation success stories in the passage show?
Step 1: The question asks about the meaning of conservation success stories (Paragraph 10).
Step 2: Examples: the American bald eagle, black-footed ferret, and Arabian oryx were nearly extinct but recovered.
Step 3: The passage directly says that with effort and cooperation, these species returned from the edge of extinction.
Step 4: (B) “With effort and cooperation, endangered species can recover” matches the message and details given.
Step 5: Choices (A), (C), and (D) are not supported or are opposite to the evidence.
Step 6: The tutorial says to check both the example and the “big idea” behind each answer.
Step 7: Eliminate any answer not clearly connected to multiple details.
Step 8: Careful matching of fact and meaning is crucial in factual info questions.
20 Hardest Words from the Passage & Questions
Study these advanced words. Click each word for IPA, patterns, definitions, example sentences, synonyms, and typical mistakes. Mastery of these words will help you in TOEFL, IELTS, and academic English!
endangered
/ɪnˈdeɪn.dʒəd/ (BrE) /ɪnˈdeɪn.dʒɚd/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
adjective
Word pattern:
endangered + noun (e.g., endangered species)
Definition:
At serious risk of extinction; having very few individuals left in the wild.
Example:
“Tigers are an endangered species.” (There are not many tigers left in the wild.)
Common synonym:
threatened
Common mistakes:
Incorrectly used for animals that are just rare, not actually at risk of extinction.
extinction
/ɪkˈstɪŋk.ʃən/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
noun (uncountable)
Word pattern:
face/go into extinction; on the brink of extinction
Definition:
Complete disappearance of a species from the planet.
Example:
“The black rhino is close to extinction.” (It may soon disappear completely.)
Common synonym:
elimination
Common mistakes:
Confusing extinction with migration or hibernation.
habitat
/ˈhæb.ɪ.tæt/ (BrE) /ˈhæb.ɪ.tæt/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
noun (countable/uncountable)
Word pattern:
animal’s/natural habitat; habitat loss
Definition:
The natural environment where an animal or plant lives.
Example:
“Rainforest habitat is disappearing due to deforestation.” (Rainforest areas are being lost.)
Common synonym:
environment
Common mistakes:
Using habitat to mean “cage” or “zoo”.
conservation
/ˌkɒn.səˈveɪ.ʃən/ (BrE) /ˌkɑːn.sɚˈveɪ.ʃən/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
noun (uncountable)
Word pattern:
conservation of; conservation program
Definition:
Protection and careful management of the environment or natural resources.
Example:
“Conservation efforts have helped pandas survive.” (Protective actions saved pandas.)
Common synonym:
protection
Common mistakes:
Confusing conservation (protection) with conversation (speaking).
ecosystem
/ˈiː.kəʊˌsɪs.təm/ (BrE) /ˈiː.koʊˌsɪs.təm/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
noun (countable)
Word pattern:
ecosystem balance; delicate ecosystem
Definition:
All the living things and their physical environment in a particular area, working together.
Example:
“Bees play a key role in the ecosystem.” (Bees help the environment function.)
Common synonym:
biome (not always exact)
Common mistakes:
Using ecosystem to refer to a single animal or plant.
poaching
/ˈpəʊ.tʃɪŋ/ (BrE) /ˈpoʊ.tʃɪŋ/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
noun (uncountable), verb (poach)
Word pattern:
poaching of; poach animals
Definition:
Illegal hunting or capturing of wild animals.
Example:
“Poaching is a major threat to elephants.” (Illegal hunting harms elephants.)
Common synonym:
illegal hunting
Common mistakes:
Mixing up poaching (illegal hunting) with cooking eggs!
sanctuary
/ˈsæŋk.tʃʊə.ri/ (BrE) /ˈsæŋk.tʃu.er.i/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
noun (countable)
Word pattern:
wildlife sanctuary; animal sanctuary
Definition:
A safe place where animals are protected from danger.
Example:
“Injured animals were taken to a sanctuary.” (A safe place for animals.)
Common synonym:
refuge
Common mistakes:
Thinking sanctuary is always a religious building.
pollution
/pəˈluː.ʃən/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
noun (uncountable)
Word pattern:
water/air/land pollution; pollution control
Definition:
Harmful substances introduced into the environment.
Example:
“Plastic pollution affects sea turtles.” (Plastic harms marine life.)
Common synonym:
contamination
Common mistakes:
Mixing up pollution with garbage (trash is just one type of pollution).
species
/ˈspiː.ʃiːz/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
noun (countable; singular and plural: “species”)
Word pattern:
endangered species; many species
Definition:
A group of animals or plants that share common characteristics and can reproduce together.
Example:
“The giant panda is an endangered species.” (A type of animal at risk.)
Common synonym:
type
Common mistakes:
Using “species” as plural with “-es” (correct: species for both singular/plural).
restore
/rɪˈstɔːr/ (BrE) /rɪˈstɔːr/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb (restore – restores – restored – restoring)
Word pattern:
restore something to (its state)
Definition:
To bring something back to its original condition.
Example:
“Conservation projects restore habitats for wildlife.” (They return the area to a healthy state.)
Common synonym:
rebuild
Common mistakes:
Mixing up restore (bring back) with store (keep).
threat
/θret/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
noun (countable/uncountable), verb (threaten)
Word pattern:
major/serious threat; threaten to + verb
Definition:
Something that may cause harm or danger.
Example:
“Climate change is a threat to polar bears.” (It may harm them.)
Common synonym:
danger
Common mistakes:
Using threat to mean opportunity or challenge (it's always negative).
dramatically
/drəˈmæt.ɪ.kəl.i/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
adverb
Word pattern:
change/increase/drop dramatically
Definition:
In a sudden, very noticeable, or important way.
Example:
“Elephant numbers have dropped dramatically.” (The decrease was very large.)
Common synonym:
significantly
Common mistakes:
Confusing dramatic (exciting) with dramatically (big change).
pollination
/ˌpɒl.ɪˈneɪ.ʃən/ (BrE) /ˌpɑː.ləˈneɪ.ʃən/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
noun (uncountable), verb (pollinate)
Word pattern:
pollination by; to pollinate flowers
Definition:
The process by which pollen is transferred to enable plants to reproduce.
Example:
“Bees are important for the pollination of crops.” (They help plants make seeds.)
Common synonym:
fertilization (not always exact)
Common mistakes:
Confusing pollination (plant process) with pollution (environmental harm).
cooperation
/kəʊˌɒp.ərˈeɪ.ʃən/ (BrE) /koʊˌɑː.pəˈreɪ.ʃən/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
noun (uncountable), verb (cooperate)
Word pattern:
cooperation between/with
Definition:
Working together to achieve a common goal.
Example:
“Conservation needs cooperation from everyone.” (Everyone should help.)
Common synonym:
collaboration
Common mistakes:
Using cooperation for “help” or “support” in the wrong context.
reserve
/rɪˈzɜːv/ (BrE) /rɪˈzɝːv/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
noun (countable), verb (reserve)
Word pattern:
wildlife/nature reserve; reserve for animals
Definition:
An area of land protected for wildlife or plants.
Example:
“Many animals live safely in a wildlife reserve.” (A protected area for animals.)
Common synonym:
protected area
Common mistakes:
Confusing reserve (protected land) with “to reserve” (to book something).
breed
/briːd/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb (breed – breeds – bred – breeding), noun (“a breed” = a type of animal)
Word pattern:
to breed animals; animal breeds
Definition:
To produce young; to reproduce.
Example:
“Zoos help endangered animals to breed.” (They have babies.)
Common synonym:
reproduce
Common mistakes:
Using breed (verb) for “raising” or “growing” plants.
restore
/rɪˈstɔː/ (BrE) /rɪˈstɔːr/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb
Word pattern:
restore to, restore something
Definition:
To bring something back to a former or original condition.
Example:
“Efforts are being made to restore the wetlands.” (To return wetlands to their previous condition.)
Common synonym:
repair
Common mistakes:
Confusing restore with reserve or store.
ban
/bæn/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb (ban – bans – banned – banning), noun
Word pattern:
ban on; to ban something
Definition:
To officially stop something by law or rule.
Example:
“Many countries have banned hunting endangered species.” (Hunting is not allowed.)
Common synonym:
prohibit
Common mistakes:
Using ban for things that are only disliked, not forbidden by law.
release
/rɪˈliːs/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb, noun
Word pattern:
release into; release from
Definition:
To set free; to allow something to go back into the wild.
Example:
“Young animals are released into their natural habitats.” (Set free into the wild.)
Common synonym:
free
Common mistakes:
Using release (verb) for “publish” (news/media context).
adapt
/əˈdæpt/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb (adapt – adapts – adapted – adapting), noun (adaptation)
Word pattern:
adapt to; adapt for
Definition:
To change in order to survive or fit new conditions.
Example:
“Some animals can adapt to climate change.” (They change to survive new conditions.)
Common synonym:
adjust
Common mistakes:
Confusing adapt (change) with adopt (take/choose something).
20 Hardest Phrases, Phrasal Verbs & Expressions
Unlock academic English! Click each phrase to see pronunciation, usage patterns, a detailed definition, example, synonym, and top learner mistakes. Practice for real exam and real-life contexts!
play an important role
/pleɪ ən ɪmˈpɔː.tənt rəʊl/ (BrE) /pleɪ ən ɪmˈpɔːr.tənt roʊl/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
play an important/major/key role (in something)
Definition:
To be a key factor or have significant influence in a situation or process.
Example:
“Animals play an important role in nature.” (They are essential for the environment.)
Common synonym:
be crucial
Common mistakes:
Confusing with “take a role” (different meaning).
face serious threats
/feɪs ˈsɪə.ri.əs θrets/ (BrE) /feɪs ˈsɪr.i.əs θrets/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
face + adjective + threat(s)
Definition:
To experience or be at risk of dangerous or harmful situations.
Example:
“Many animals face serious threats from poaching and habitat loss.” (They are in danger.)
Common synonym:
be threatened by
Common mistakes:
Incorrectly using “meet threats” or “take threats”.
put their future in danger
/pʊt ðeə ˈfjʊː.tʃər ɪn ˈdeɪn.dʒər/ (BrE) /pʊt ðɛr ˈfjuː.tʃɚ ɪn ˈdeɪn.dʒɚ/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
put (something/someone) in danger
Definition:
To make something or someone likely to be harmed or lost.
Example:
“Habitat loss puts their future in danger.” (It threatens survival.)
Common synonym:
endanger
Common mistakes:
Using “make danger” or “create danger”.
risk disappearing forever
/rɪsk ˌdɪsəˈpɪə.rɪŋ fəˈrɛv.ər/ (BrE) /rɪsk ˌdɪs.əˈpɪr.ɪŋ fəˈrɛv.ɚ/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
risk + gerund/verb-ing
Definition:
To be in danger of never existing again.
Example:
“Endangered animals risk disappearing forever.” (They might be extinct.)
Common synonym:
risk extinction
Common mistakes:
Using “risk to disappear” (incorrect structure).
essential for the future
/ɪˈsen.ʃəl fə ðə ˈfjʊː.tʃər/ (BrE) /ɪˈsɛn.ʃəl fər ðə ˈfjuː.tʃɚ/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
adjective phrase
Word pattern:
be essential for/to
Definition:
Absolutely necessary for what will happen in the future.
Example:
“Conservation is essential for the future.” (It is needed for our world.)
Common synonym:
vital for the future
Common mistakes:
Missing the preposition (“essential the future”).
struggle to survive
/ˈstrʌɡ.əl tə səˈvaɪv/ (BrE) /ˈstrʌɡ.əl tə sərˈvaɪv/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
struggle to + verb
Definition:
To have difficulty staying alive or continuing to exist.
Example:
“Animals struggle to survive in polluted habitats.” (It is hard for them to live.)
Common synonym:
find it hard to survive
Common mistakes:
Using “struggle for survive” (should be “struggle to survive”).
drop dramatically
/drɒp drəˈmæt.ɪ.kəli/ (BrE) /drɑːp drəˈmæt.ɪ.kli/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
drop/increase/rise dramatically
Definition:
To decrease a lot and very quickly.
Example:
“Elephant numbers have dropped dramatically.” (They decreased a lot.)
Common synonym:
decrease significantly
Common mistakes:
Using “fall dramatic” or “drop dramatic”.
mistake for food
/mɪˈsteɪk fə fuːd/ (BrE) /mɪˈsteɪk fər fuːd/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
mistake (something) for (something else)
Definition:
To think something is food when it is not.
Example:
“Birds mistake plastic for food.” (They eat plastic by accident.)
Common synonym:
confuse with food
Common mistakes:
Leaving out “for” (“mistake as food”).
adapt to
/əˈdæpt tuː/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
phrasal verb
Word pattern:
adapt to (something)
Definition:
To change to suit new conditions or environment.
Example:
“Animals must adapt to climate change.” (Change to survive.)
Common synonym:
adjust to
Common mistakes:
Using “adapt with” instead of “adapt to”.
unique role
/juːˈniːk rəʊl/ (BrE) /juˈniːk roʊl/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
adjective + noun
Word pattern:
unique role in (something)
Definition:
A special or one-of-a-kind function or position.
Example:
“Every animal has a unique role in the ecosystem.” (Each animal is important in its own way.)
Common synonym:
special role
Common mistakes:
Overusing “unique” for anything simply different.
be at risk
/bi ət rɪsk/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
be at risk (of something)
Definition:
To be in danger of something bad happening.
Example:
“Bees are at risk of extinction.” (They may disappear.)
Common synonym:
be in danger
Common mistakes:
Using “in risk” (should be “at risk”).
thanks to
/θæŋks tuː/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
prepositional phrase
Word pattern:
thanks to + noun/verb-ing
Definition:
Because of (used for positive reasons).
Example:
“Tiger numbers have grown thanks to new conservation laws.” (Because of the laws.)
Common synonym:
because of
Common mistakes:
Using “thanks to” for negative causes (should be positive).
release back into the wild
/rɪˈliːs bæk ˈɪntuː ðə waɪld/ (BrE) /rɪˈliːs bæk ˈɪntu ðə waɪld/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
release (something) back into (the) wild
Definition:
To set a captive animal free into its natural environment.
Example:
“Sanctuaries release animals back into the wild.” (Set them free in nature.)
Common synonym:
set free
Common mistakes:
Forgetting “back” (release into wild is not always the same).
struggle because their environments are changing
/ˈstrʌɡ.əl bɪˈkɒz ðeər ɪnˈvaɪ.rən.mənts ɑː ˈtʃeɪn.dʒɪŋ/ (BrE) /ˈstrʌɡ.əl bɪˈkʌz ðɛr ɪnˈvaɪrən.mənts ɑːr ˈtʃeɪndʒɪŋ/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb clause
Word pattern:
struggle because (reason)
Definition:
Have difficulties due to environmental changes.
Example:
“Many species struggle because their environments are changing.” (They have trouble living as things change.)
Common synonym:
find it hard to adapt
Common mistakes:
Leaving out the reason after “because”.
close to extinction
/kləʊs tuː ɪkˈstɪŋk.ʃən/ (BrE) /kloʊs tu ɪkˈstɪŋk.ʃən/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
adjective phrase
Word pattern:
close/near to + noun
Definition:
Very likely to disappear forever soon.
Example:
“The Bengal tiger was close to extinction.” (Almost gone.)
Common synonym:
on the verge of extinction
Common mistakes:
Missing “to” (“close extinction” is incorrect).
play a part in
/pleɪ ə pɑːt ɪn/ (BrE) /pleɪ ə pɑːrt ɪn/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
play a part/role in (something)
Definition:
To help make something happen.
Example:
“Zoos play a part in conservation.” (They help with conservation.)
Common synonym:
contribute to
Common mistakes:
Mixing with “take part in” (which means “join in”).
breed in captivity
/briːd ɪn kæpˈtɪv.ɪ.ti/ (BrE) /briːd ɪn kæpˈtɪv.ə.t̬i/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
breed in captivity/wild
Definition:
To produce young when kept in zoos or other controlled places, not in the wild.
Example:
“Pandas often breed in captivity.” (They have babies in zoos.)
Common synonym:
reproduce in captivity
Common mistakes:
Using “breed on captivity”.
make a difference
/meɪk ə ˈdɪf.ər.əns/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
make a/some difference (to/in something)
Definition:
To have a positive effect or change on a situation.
Example:
“Even small actions can make a difference.” (They help or change things for the better.)
Common synonym:
have an impact
Common mistakes:
Using “do a difference”.
be part of the solution
/biː pɑːt əv ðə səˈluː.ʃən/ (BrE) /bi pɑːrt əv ðə səˈluː.ʃən/ (AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
be part of the solution/problem
Definition:
To help solve a problem instead of causing it.
Example:
“We can all be part of the solution to save wildlife.” (Help to fix the problem.)
Common synonym:
contribute positively
Common mistakes:
Using “do part of the solution”.
bring back from the edge of extinction
/brɪŋ bæk frəm ði ɛdʒ əv ɪkˈstɪŋk.ʃən/ (BrE/AmE)
Parts of speech:
verb phrase
Word pattern:
bring (something/someone) back from (the) edge of extinction
Definition:
To save a species that is almost extinct and help it survive again.
Example:
“Conservation has brought the bald eagle back from the edge of extinction.” (Saved it from disappearing.)
Common synonym:
rescue from extinction
Common mistakes:
Leaving out “edge of” or “back from”.
Interactive Exercise 1 – Vocabulary & Phrases
Test your knowledge! Choose the best answer. When you answer, see a detailed explanation below. All examples and options come directly from the hardest words & phrases above.
Interactive Exercise 2 – Vocabulary & Phrases
Try these challenging questions! Choose the best answer. Instantly view an expert explanation after each selection.
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