Academic Vocabulary

Question 0

Commention

Answer 0

To discuss, criticize, or explain its meaning as completely as possible.

Question 1

Analyze

Answer 1

To find the main ideas, how they are related, and why they are important.

Question 2

Compare

Answer 2

Show both differences and similarities.

Question 3

Contrast

Answer 3

To compare by showing differences.

Question 4

Criticize

Answer 4

To give your judgement or reasoned opinion of something, showing its good and bad points. However it isn’t necessary to attack.

Question 5

Define

Answer 5

To give the formal meaning by distinguishing it from related terms . This is often a matter of giving a memorized definition.

Question 6

Describe

Answer 6

To write a detailed account or verbal picture in a logical or story form.

Question 7

Diagram

Answer 7

To make a graph, chart, or drawing. Be sure to label it and add a brief explanation if necessary.

Question 8

Discuss

Answer 8

To present arguments for and against a point of view and reach a conclusion. Must be supported with appropriate evidence.

Question 9

Enumerate

Answer 9

To list and name the main ideas one by one.

Question 10

Illustrate

Answer 10

To explain or make clear using concrete examples, comparisons, or analogies.

Question 11

Interpret

Answer 11

To give the meaning using examples or personal comments to make something clear.

Question 12

Justify

Answer 12

To give a statement if why you think something is so. Give reasons for your statement or conclusion.

Question 13

List

Answer 13

To produce a list of words, sentences, or comments, same as enumerate.

Question 14

Outline

Answer 14

To give a general summary. Should contain a series of main ideas supported by secondary facts. Show organization of ideas.

Question 15

Prove

Answer 15

To show by argument or logic that something is true. However it has a very specific meaning in math and physics.

Question 16

Relate

Answer 16

To show the connection between things, how one causes or is like another.

Question 17

Review

Answer 17

To give a general summary or survey in which you look at important parts and criticize if necessary.

Question 18

State

Answer 18

To describe the main points. In precise terms. Use brief, clear sentences. Omit details or examples.

Question 19

Summarize

Answer 19

To give a brief, condensed account of the main ideas.

Question 20

Trace

Answer 20

To follow the progress or history of a subject.