Words / C1

RYF/raɪf/

Rife means very common, especially of something unpleasant: rife “full house” copy, rife with gaps. Prevalent (already in the dictionary) is the close twin; packed talk is not a count.

Meaning

Very common, especially of something unpleasant (from prevalent, already in the dictionary).

Examples

• “Rife “full house” copy is still not an occupancy figure; count the seats.”
• “Prevalent is already in this course. Widespread is already in this course. Packed is a vibe. A number on a certificate is the rule. Count the seats; then keep the copy if the cap still holds.”

Good to know

Widespread (often of something bad). Close: prevalent (already in the dictionary). Packed copy ≠ a count.

Near in meaning

widespread, prevalent, endemic

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