SAT Vocabularies Flashcards
abolish
(verb) – to officially end or stop (something, such as a law); to completely do away with (something).
Example: The government abolished slavery in 1865.
abrupt
(adjective) – sudden and unexpected.
Example: The car came to an abrupt stop.
abundant
(adjective) – existing or available in large quantities.
Example: There is abundant evidence to support the claim.
accessible
(adjective) – easy to reach or get to.
Example: The library is accessible to all members of the community.
accommodate
(verb) – provide a place or means of living for.
Example: The hotel can accommodate 200 guests.
accumulate
(verb) – gather or collect over time.
Example: The snow accumulated on the ground.
accustomed
(adjective) – used to or familiar with something.
Example: I am accustomed to getting up early.
acknowledge
(verb) – admit the truth or existence of something.
Example: The teacher acknowledged that the student was correct.
acquire
(verb) – get or obtain (something) as one’s own.
Example: The company acquired a new subsidiary.
adamant
(adjective) – not able to be persuaded or moved.
Example: The president was adamant about his decision.
adequate
(adjective) – sufficient or enough.
Example: The food was adequate, but not particularly good.
adhere
(verb) – stick to or follow closely.
Example: The students adhered to the rules of the classroom.
adjacent
(adjective) – next to or close to something else.
Example: The two houses are adjacent to each other.
adverse
(adjective) – unfavorable or harmful.
Example: The weather conditions were adverse, and the flight was cancelled.
advocate
(verb) – speak or write in favor of something.
Example: The lawyer advocated for the rights of the accused.
affinity
(noun) – a natural liking or attraction for someone or something.
Example: There is an affinity between the two countries.
aggravate
(verb) – make (something bad) worse.
Example: The noise from the construction site aggravated her headache.
agitation
(noun) – a state of excitement or disturbance.
Example: The crowd was in a state of agitation after the news of the terrorist attack.
alteration
(noun) – a change or modification.
Example: The dress needed some alterations before it could be worn.
allocate
(verb) – distribute or apportion (something) to a particular person or purpose.
Example: The government allocated funds for education.
ambiguous
(adjective) – having two or more possible meanings and therefore open to interpretation.
Example: The ambiguous statement left the audience confused.
ambitious
(adjective) – having a strong desire to achieve success.
Example: The ambitious young executive was determined to make a name for herself.
ambivalent
(adjective) – having mixed feelings or contradictory emotions about something.
Example: The politician was ambivalent about the proposed legislation.
ameliorate
(verb) - to make a bad or unpleasant situation better
Example: Foreign aid is badly needed to ameliorate the effects of the drought.
amend
(verb) – make changes to (a document or text) in order to correct errors or improve it.
Example: The constitution was amended to include the right to vote for women.
ample
(adjective) – more than enough.
Example: The company has ample resources to continue its operations.
animosity
(noun) – strong or bitter hatred or hostility.
Example: The two countries have a long history of animosity.
annotate
(verb) – provide (a text) with notes or comments.
Example: The professor annotated the student’s paper with suggestions for improvement.
annual
(adjective) – happening or done once a year.
Example: The company’s annual report was released yesterday.
anomaly
(noun) – something that is abnormal or unusual.
Example: The weather anomaly caused widespread flooding.
antagonize
(verb) – deliberately provoke or annoy (someone).
Example: If your mother tells you to stop antagonizing your brother, she’s asking you to stop making him mad.
antecedent
(noun) - someone or something existing or happening before, especially as the cause or origin of something existing or happening later
Example: Charles Babbage’s mechanical calculating engines were the antecedents of the modern computer.
antipathy
(noun) – a strong dislike or aversion.
Example: The teacher had an antipathy towards the student.
apathetic
(adjective) – showing or feeling no interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
Example: The apathetic audience didn’t even applaud after the performance.
apex
(noun) – the highest point or summit.
Example: The mountain’s apex was covered in snow.
apprehensive
(adjective) – feeling or showing worry or anxiety.
Example: The student was apprehensive about taking the test.
arbitrary
(adjective) – based on or determined by individual judgment or preference, rather than by any reason or system.
Example: The teacher’s grading was arbitrary, and the students were never sure how they were doing.
arcane
(adjective) – known or understood by only a few people.
Example: The ancient texts were arcane, and the scholars struggled to decipher them.
arduous
(adjective) – requiring great physical or mental effort.
Example: The climb up the mountain was arduous, and the hikers were exhausted by the time they reached the top.
aromatic
(adjective) – having a pleasant or strong smell.
Example: The aromatic candles filled the room with a sweet scent.
assuage
(verb) – to make (an unpleasant feeling or situation) less severe or intense.
Example: The doctor gave the patient medication to assuage her pain.
attribute
(verb) – regard (something) as being caused by (someone or something).
Example: The police attributed the crime to a gang of teenagers.
atypical
(adjective) – not typical or normal.
Example: The patient’s symptoms were atypical, and the doctors were unable to diagnose her.
augment
(verb) – increase or add to (something).
Example: The company augmented its workforce by hiring 100 new employees.
austere
(adjective) – severe or strict in manner or appearance.
Example: The monk’s life was austere, and he lived on a very simple diet.
autonomous
(adjective) – able to operate independently or without outside control.
Example: The autonomous car was able to navigate the streets without human input.
begrudge
(verb) – to feel envy or resentment towards someone who has something that you do not have.
Example: She begrudged her sister her new car.
belligerent
(adjective) – aggressively hostile or warlike.
Example: The belligerent crowd was threatening to riot.
beneficiary
(noun) – a person who receives a benefit, especially a financial one.
Example: The beneficiary of the will was her only child.
benevolent
(adjective) – having or showing a desire to help others.
Example: The benevolent old man donated money to the charity.
benign
(adjective) – harmless or not harmful.
Example: The tumor was benign, so the doctor did not recommend surgery.
berate
(verb) – scold or criticize someone severely.
Example: The teacher berated the student for not doing his homework.
bestow
(verb) – give or confer something as a gift.
Example: The king bestowed a knighthood on the loyal subject.
bolster
(verb) – give support or encouragement to.
Example: The team was bolstered by the arrival of the new player.
buttress
(verb) – support or strengthen something.
Example: The wall was buttressed by a series of pillars.
cacophony
(noun) – a harsh, discordant mixture of sounds.
Example: The cacophony of traffic noise made it difficult to think.
catalyst
(noun) – a substance that speeds up a chemical reaction without being changed itself.
Example: The catalyst in the experiment was a small amount of platinum.
catastrophic
(adjective) – causing great and sudden damage or destruction.
Example: The hurricane was a catastrophic event that caused widespread damage.
cease
(verb) – stop or bring to an end.
Example: The fighting ceased after a week.
censure
(verb) – express strong disapproval of (something).
Example: The government was censured for its handling of the crisis.
circumvent
(verb) – find a way to avoid or get around (a rule, restriction, or obstacle).
Example: The prisoners circumvented the security system and escaped.
cling
(verb) – hold tightly to something, especially out of fear or need.
Example: The child clung to her mother’s hand.
clout
(noun) – power or influence.
Example: The politician had a lot of clout in the party.
coalesce
(verb) – come together to form a single unit.
Example: The two companies coalesced to form a new entity.
coerce
(verb) – force or persuade (someone) to do something by using pressure, intimidation, or threats.
Example: The government coerced the citizens into voting for the new leader.
cognizant
(adjective) – aware of something.
Example: The police were cognizant of the threat of terrorism.
cohesion
(noun) – the state of sticking together.
Example: The team’s cohesion was essential to their success.
coincide
(verb) – happen at the same time.
Example: The two events coincided perfectly.
commission
(noun) – a group of people appointed to do a particular task.
Example: The commission was appointed to investigate the scandal.
comparable
(adjective) – similar in nature or quality.
Example: The two cars are comparable in price and performance.
compelling
(adjective) – very interesting or persuasive.
Example: The movie was a compelling story of love and loss.
complacent
(adjective) – feeling satisfied with oneself or one’s situation, especially without awareness of potential danger or problems.
Example: The company’s complacent attitude led to its downfall.
complementary
(adjective) – serving to complete or enhance something else.
Example: The two flavors were complementary.
compliance
(noun) – the act of complying with a request or command.
Example: The employee’s compliance with the rules was exemplary.
complimentary
(adjective) – expressing praise or admiration.
Example: The waiter gave us a complimentary glass of wine.
compose
(verb) – create or put together (something).
Example: The composer composed a symphony.
comprise
(verb) – consist of or be made up of.
Example: The team comprises players from all over the world.
conceal
(verb) – keep (something) secret or hidden.
Example: The spy concealed his identity.
concede
(verb) – admit or agree that something is true or valid.
Example: The politician conceded defeat.
conceptualize
(verb) – form a concept of (something) in the mind.
Example: The artist conceptualized the painting before he started to paint it.
concur
(verb) – agree or coincide in opinion.
Example: The two experts concurred on the diagnosis.
condescension
(noun) – an attitude of patronizing superiority.
Example: The teacher’s condescension made the students feel angry.
conformist
(noun) – a person who conforms to the prevailing standards or practices of a particular society or group.
Example: The conformist employee never spoke out against the company’s policies.
congenital
(adjective) – existing at or dating from birth.
Example: The child’s congenital heart defect required surgery
conjecture
(noun) – an opinion or conclusion formed on the basis of incomplete information.
Example: The police made a conjecture about the suspect’s identity.
conspicuous
(adjective) - very noticeable or attracting attention, often in a way that is not wanted
Example: In China, her blonde hair was conspicuous.
constrain
(verb) – restrict or limit (someone or something).
Example: The rules constrained the artist’s creativity.
contemplate
(verb) – consider or think deeply about (something).
Example: The philosopher contemplated the meaning of life.
contentious
(adjective) – likely to cause disagreement or argument.
Example: The issue of gun control is contentious.
contrived
(adjective) – deliberately created or arranged in an artificial way.
Example: The plot of the movie was contrived.
controversial
(adjective) - causing disagreement or discussion
Example: The controversial topic caused a heated debate among the men.
conventional
(adjective) – following or conforming to the traditional or accepted way of doing things.
Example: The dress code was conventional.
convey
(verb) – to make known or communicate (something).
Example: The painting conveyed a sense of sadness.
copious
(adjective) – large in quantity or amount.
Example: The rainfall was copious.
cordial
(adjective) - friendly, but formal and polite
Example: Relations between the two leaders are said to be cordial.
corroborate
(verb) – provide support or confirmation for (something).
Example: The witness’s testimony corroborated the police officer’s story.
corrode
(verb) – gradually destroy or eat away at (something).
Example: The acid corroded the metal.
criteria
(plural noun) – a set of standards or rules used to judge something.
Example: The criteria for the award were not clear.
culmination
(noun) – the highest or most important point of something.
Example: The culmination of the project was the launch of the new product.
cultivate
(verb) – to grow (plants) by supplying them with the right conditions.
Example: The farmer cultivated the land.
cumbersome
(adjective) – large and heavy, and therefore difficult to handle.
Example: The old furniture was cumbersome.
curiosity
(noun) – a strong desire to know or learn about something.
Example: The child’s curiosity led him to explore the world around him.
curtail
(verb) – to reduce or limit something.
Example: The government curtailed spending.
deceitful
(adjective) – dishonest or misleading.
Example: The deceitful salesman lied about the quality of the product.
decree
(noun) – a formal order issued by a government or other authority.
Example: The decree banned the sale of alcohol.
delegate
(verb) – give (a task or responsibility) to someone else.
Example: The manager delegated the task to his assistant.
deplete
(verb) – use up or reduce the amount of (something).
Example: The war depleted the country’s resources.
deposit
(noun) – a sum of money placed in a bank or other financial institution.
Example: The customer made a deposit of $100.
detachment
(noun) – a lack of emotional involvement or concern.
Example: The doctor showed a detachment that was unsettling to the patient.
deter
(verb) – discourage or prevent (someone) from doing something.
Example: The high price of the tickets deterred many people from attending the concert.
deviate
(verb) – move away from a standard or accepted course.
Example: The train deviated from its usual route due to a landslide.
devise
(verb) – create or design (something) in a clever or ingenious way.
Example: The engineer devised a new way to extract oil from the ground.
diatribe
(noun) – a long, forceful, and angry speech or piece of writing.
Example: The politician’s diatribe against the opposition party was widely condemned.
digress
(verb) – move away from the main point of a discussion or piece of writing.
Example: The speaker digressed into a long discussion of his childhood.
dilemma
(noun) – a situation in which there are two or more options, each of which has its own drawbacks.
Example: The company faced a dilemma: either lay off employees or risk bankruptcy.
diminish
(verb) – make or become smaller or less in amount.
Example: The company’s profits diminished as the competition increased.
discernible
(adjective) – able to be seen, heard, or understood.
Example: The difference between the two paintings was barely discernible.
disconcerting
(adjective) – causing confusion or unease.
Example: The sudden change of plans was disconcerting to the passengers.
disengage
(verb) – release or free (something) from something else.
Example: The soldier disengaged his bayonet from his rifle.
dismay
(noun) – a feeling of disappointment or discouragement.
Example: The news of the defeat caused widespread dismay.
disorienting
(adjective) – causing someone to become confused or lost.
Example: The disorienting fog made it difficult to see where we were going.
disparate
(adjective) – very different or dissimilar.
Example: The group of students was disparate in terms of their backgrounds and interests.
dispatch
(verb) – send (someone or something) on a mission or errand.
Example: The general dispatched a messenger to the enemy camp.
dispersed
(adjective) – spread out or scattered over a wide area.
Example: The crowd dispersed after the rally.
disproportionate
(adjective) – not in the correct or usual proportion.
Example: The punishment was disproportionate to the crime.
dispute
(noun) – a disagreement or argument.
Example: The dispute between the two companies was settled out of court.
disrupt
(verb) – interrupt or disturb the normal course of something.
Example: The strike disrupted the flow of traffic.
diverge
(verb) – move in different directions or opinions.
Example: The two parties diverged on the issue of immigration.
divert
(verb) – turn or direct (something) away from its intended course.
Example: The river was diverted to irrigate the fields.
divulge
(verb) – reveal or make known (something that was previously secret or unknown).
Example: No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t get him to divulge his password.
dogmatic
(adjective) – showing or believing in opinions that are not supported by proof or evidence.
Example: The professor’s dogmatic views on the subject were not shared by his students.
dominion
(noun) – supreme authority or power.
Example: The king’s dominion extended over the entire country.
dormant
(adjective) – not active or functioning.
Example: The volcano was dormant for centuries before it erupted.
exactitude
(noun) - the quality or state of being accurate and correct
Example: She was able to recall the event with remarkable exactitude.
fabricate
(verb) – make up (something) and present it as true.
Example: The politician fabricated evidence to support his claims.
Related: fabrication (noun)
fastidious
(adjective) – very careful and particular about what one does or requires.
Example: The fastidious chef refused to use anything but the freshest ingredients.
feasible
(adjective) – capable of being done or achieved.
Example: The project is feasible, but it will require a lot of hard work.
featureless
(adjective) – having no distinctive features or characteristics.
Example: The featureless landscape was a monotonous expanse of desert.
finite
(adjective) – having limits or boundaries.
Example: The universe is finite.
flawless
(adjective) – without any flaws or defects.
Example: The diamond was flawless.
fluctuate
(verb) – vary or change irregularly.
Example: The stock market fluctuated wildly during the day.
foreshadow
(verb) – indicate or suggest the occurrence of (something) in the future.
Example: The movie foreshadowed the character’s death by showing him having a premonition.
foretell
(verb) – predict or indicate the future course of events.
Example: The prophet foretold the coming of a great leader.
forfeiture
(noun) – the loss of something as a punishment for a crime or offense.
Example: The driver’s license was forfeited for drunk driving.
fortify
(verb) – strengthen or make stronger.
Example: The city was fortified against attack.
foster
(verb) – promote or encourage the growth or development of (something).
Example: The government fostered economic growth by investing in infrastructure.
framework
(noun) – a basic structure or outline.
Example: The project is still in the framework stage.
frivolous
(adjective) – not having any serious purpose or value.
Example: The lawsuit was frivolous and was quickly dismissed.
fruitless
(adjective) – producing no results or benefits.
Example: The search for the missing child was fruitless.
fundamental
(adjective) – forming the basis or foundation of something.
Example: The principles of democracy are fundamental to the American way of life.
garner
(verb) – obtain or accumulate (something) over time.
Example: The company garnered a lot of positive press.
garrulous
(adjective) – talking a lot, especially in a way that is considered to be tedious or annoying.
Example: The garrulous old man talked our ears off.
grandiose
(adjective) – impressive or impressive-looking in a way that is intended to impress or overawe.
Example: The grandiose building was a symbol of the city’s wealth and power.
grapple with
(verb) – struggle to deal with (a problem or difficult situation).
Example: The company grappled with the financial crisis.
gregarious
(adjective) – fond of company and social activity.
Example: The gregarious student was always surrounded by friends.
hackneyed
(adjective) – used so often that it has become boring or unoriginal.
Example: The hackneyed phrase “the pen is mightier than the sword” is no longer very effective.
haphazard
(adjective) – done or arranged without care or thought.
Example: The haphazard way the project was managed led to its failure.
hierarchy
(noun) – a system in which people or things are ranked one above the other according to importance.
Example: The company has a strict hierarchy, with the CEO at the top.
hindrance
(noun) – something that makes it difficult or impossible to do something.
Example: The lack of funding was a major hindrance to the project.
homogenous
(adjective) – of the same kind or type throughout.
Example: The population of the village was homogeneous.
hypothesize
(verb) - to give a possible but not yet proven explanation for something
Example: This discovery led experts to hypothesize a different path of evolution for early man.
immature
(adjective) – not fully developed or grown.
Example: The child is still immature and needs a lot of guidance.
imminent
(adjective) – about to happen or occur.
Example: The storm is imminent.
impair
(verb) – damage or make worse.
Example: The accident impaired his vision.
impart
(verb) – give or convey (information or knowledge).
Example: The teacher imparted her knowledge to the students.
impartial
(adjective) – not biased or prejudiced.
Example: The judge was impartial in his ruling.
impending
(adjective) - used to refer to an event, usually something unpleasant or unwanted, that is going to happen soon
The player announced his impending retirement from international soccer.
impenetrable
(adjective) – impossible to pass through or understand.
Example: The forest was impenetrable.
imperative
(adjective) – extremely important or urgent.
Example: It is imperative that we act now.
imperceptible
(adjective) – too slight to be noticed.
Example: The change was imperceptible.
implement
(verb) – put (a plan, decision, or theory) into effect.
Example: The government implemented a new policy.
implication
(noun) - an occasion when you seem to suggest something without saying it directly
Example: From what she said, the implication was that they were splitting up.
impose
(verb) – force (something) to be accepted or done.
Example: The government imposed a curfew.
impoverish
(verb) – make (someone) poor.
Example: The war impoverished the country.
incentive
(noun) – something that motivates or encourages someone to do something.
Example: The incentive to get a good grade motivated the student to study hard.
incessant
(adjective) – continuing without interruption.
Example: The rain was incessant.
incidental
(adjective) – happening by chance or in addition to what is planned or expected.
Example: The damage was incidental to the accident.
incite
(verb) – stir up (violent or unlawful behavior).
Example: The speech incited the crowd to riot.
inclination
(noun) – a tendency or natural disposition to do something.
Example: She had an inclination to procrastinate.
incur
(verb) – become liable to (something unpleasant or harmful).
Example: He incurred the wrath of his boss.
indecipherable
(adjective) – impossible to decipher or understand.
Example: The writing was undecipherable.
indefatigable
(adjective) – not easily tired or discouraged.
Example: The hiker was indefatigable and kept going even though he was tired.
indifferent
(adjective) – not interested or concerned.
Example: The teacher was indifferent to the student’s needs.
indigenous
(adjective) – native or belonging to a particular place or country.
Example: The plants are indigenous to the region.
indiscriminate
(adjective) – not making or showing careful choices.
Example: The police used indiscriminate force.
indispensable
(adjective) – absolutely necessary.
Example: A good education is indispensable for success.
indisputable
(adjective) – not open to doubt or question.
Example: The evidence is indisputable.
indistinct
(adjective) – not clear or distinct.
Example: The shapes were indistinct in the fog.
induce
(verb) – persuade or influence (someone) to do something.
Example: The teacher induced the students to study harder.
ineffective
(adjective) – not producing the desired effect.
Example: The medication was ineffective.
inevitable
(adjective) – certain to happen; unavoidable.
Example: Death is inevitable.
inexplicable
(adjective) – impossible to explain or understand.
Example: The disappearance was inexplicable.
infallible
(adjective) – incapable of making mistakes.
Example: The doctor was infallible in his diagnosis.
infrastructure
(noun) – the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities (e.g., roads, power supplies, buildings) needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
Example: The country’s infrastructure was damaged in the war.
inhibit
(verb) – prevent or restrict (someone or something) from doing something.
Example: The antibiotic works by inhibiting the reproduction of bacteria.
insensible
(adjective) – unconscious
Example: We found her lying on the floor, drunk and insensible.
jargon
(noun) – technical or specialized language that is used by a particular group of people.
Example: The doctor used medical jargon that the patient did not understand.
keen
(adjective) – having or showing a strong interest or enthusiasm.
Example: She was keen to learn more about the subject.
knack
(noun) – a natural ability to do something well.
Example: He has a knack for making people laugh.
lampoon
(verb) – make fun of (someone or something) in a way that is intended to be humorous.
Example: The newspaper lampooned the politician’s latest gaffe.
languish
(verb) – to become weak or feeble because of illness or neglect.
Example: The prisoner languished in jail for many years.latent
latent
(adjective) – existing but not yet developed or manifest.
Example: The latent talent of the young artist was soon recognized.
leery
(adjective) – feeling or showing suspicion or distrust.
Example: She was leery of the stranger who approached her.
lenient
(adjective) – showing mercy or forgiveness.
Example: The judge was lenient with the defendant because he was a first-time offender.
localized
(adjective) – restricted to a particular area or place.
Example: The outbreak of the disease was localized to a small area of the city.
lucrative
(adjective) – producing a lot of money.
Example: The business was very lucrative.
ludicrous
(adjective) – extremely or absurdly foolish or ridiculous.
Example: The idea of a talking cat is ludicrous.
lure
(verb) – attract or tempt someone to do something.
Example: The smell of food lured the dog into the kitchen.
magnanimous
(adjective) – generous in spirit and especially in the forgiving of injuries.
Example: The magnanimous king pardoned his enemies.
malevolence
(noun) – ill will or spite.
Example: The villain’s malevolence knew no bounds.
malleable
(adjective) – able to be shaped or bent easily.
Example: The metal was malleable and could be easily shaped into a new form.
manifest
(verb) – to show something clearly, through signs or actions
Example: The workers chose to manifest their dissatisfaction in a series of strikes.
manipulate
(verb) – control or influence (a person or situation) cleverly or deviously.
Example: The politician manipulated the public opinion to his advantage.
mediocre
(adjective) – of only average quality.
Example: The movie was mediocre and did not receive good reviews.
melodramatic
(adjective) – excessively dramatic or sensational.
Example: The actress’s performance was melodramatic and over the top.
menacing
(adjective) – threatening or intimidating.
Example: The menacing stranger followed the woman down the street.
mimic
(verb) – imitate (someone or something) closely, especially in order to make fun of them.
Example: The child mimicked the teacher’s voice.
misrepresent
(verb) – give a false or misleading account of (something).
Example: The politician misrepresented his record to the voters.
morose
(adjective) – bad-tempered or sullen.
Example: The morose old man sat on the bench and stared into space.
mundane
(adjective) – ordinary or unexciting.
Example: The job was mundane and the pay was low.
naïve
(adjective) – lacking in experience, wisdom, or judgment.
Example: The naïve young woman was easily tricked by the con artist.
negligent
(adjective) – failing to take proper care in doing something.
Example: The driver was negligent and caused a car accident.
negligible
(adjective) – so small or unimportant as to be not worth considering.
Example: The amount of money he donated was negligible.
nonchalant
(adjective) – feeling or showing no concern or interest.
Example: The nonchalant waiter took our order without even looking at us.
nuanced
(adjective) – having or showing delicate shades of meaning or expression.
Example: The novel was nuanced and explored complex themes.
null
(adjective) – having no legal or binding force.
Example: The contract was null and void.
nurture
(verb) – care for and protect (someone or something), especially from birth.
Example: The mother nurtured her child with love and attention.
obscure
(adjective) – not clearly understood or known.
Example: The meaning of the poem was obscure to most readers.
obsolete
(adjective) – no longer in use or fashionable.
Example: The typewriter is now obsolete.
obviate
(verb) – make unnecessary or redundant.
Example: The invention of the car obviated the need for horses and carriages.
offhand
(adjective) – without preparation or forethought.
Example: He gave an offhand answer to the question.
omnipotence
(noun) – the power to do anything.
Example: God is said to be omnipotent.
opaque
(adjective) – not transparent or translucent.
Example: The window was opaque, so we could not see outside.
oppress
(verb) – treat (someone) with cruelty or injustice, especially by the use of authority.
Example: The dictator oppressed his people.
ornamental
(adjective) – serving only to add beauty or decoration.
Example: The ornamental vase was not very useful.
ornate
(adjective) – elaborately decorated or ornamented.*
Example: The ornate palace was a sight to behold.
outweigh
(verb) – have more weight or importance than something else.
Example: The importance of the election outweighed the inconvenience of voting.
overindulge
(verb) – eat or drink too much of something.
Example: He overindulged in cake and ice cream and felt sick afterwards.
overshadowed
(adjective) – prevented from being noticed or appreciated because of something more impressive or important.
Example: The new star player overshadowed the rest of the team.
overt
done or shown publicly or in an obvious way and not secret
Example: He shows no overt signs of his unhappiness.
overtake
(verb) – move past (someone or something) while traveling in the same direction.
Example: The car overtook the truck on the highway.
pantheon
(noun) – a temple or building dedicated to all the gods of a particular religion.
Example: The ancient Greeks had a pantheon of gods.
paradigm
(noun) – a set of beliefs, values, and assumptions that forms the basis of how people understand the world.
Example: The scientific revolution led to a paradigm shift in our understanding of the universe.
paramount
(adjective) – of the highest importance or rank.
Example: The safety of the passengers is paramount.
parsimonious
(adjective) – very careful with money or resources.
Example: The miser was a parsimonious man.
partake
(verb) – take part in (something).
Example: We all partook of the feast.
partial
(adjective) – having a preference for one thing or person over others.
Example: She is partial to chocolate.
paucity
(noun) – a small or limited amount of something.
Example: There was a paucity of evidence to support his claims.
peculiar
(adjective) – strange or unusual.
Example: The cat had a peculiar habit of licking its paws.
Related: peculiarity (noun)
pending
(adjective) – awaiting a decision or action.
Example: The case is still pending.
peripheral
(adjective) – not central or important.
Example: The peripheral details of the story were not important.
permeate
(verb) – spread through or over something.
Example: The smell of smoke permeated the room.
persist
(verb) – continue in spite of opposition or difficulty.
Example: She persisted in her efforts to get a job.
pertain
(verb) – be relevant or related to something.
Example: This information does not pertain to you.
pinnacle
(noun) – the highest point of something.
Example: The mountain was the pinnacle of his hiking career.
postulate
(verb) - to suggest a theory, idea, etc. as a basic principle from which a further idea is formed or developed
Example: It was the Greek astronomer, Ptolemy, who postulated that the earth was at the center of the universe.
potent
(adjective) – having a strong or powerful effect.
Example: The drug was very potent and caused him to hallucinate.
pragmatic
(adjective) – dealing with practical matters in a realistic and sensible way.
Example: The politician was a pragmatic man who was more interested in getting things done than in making grand speeches.
precarious
(adjective) – dangerous or uncertain.
Example: The climber’s position was precarious and he could easily fall.
precede
(verb) – come before something in time or order.
Example: The appetizers preceded the main course.
precise
(adjective) – exact or accurate.
Example: The doctor gave her a precise diagnosis.
preclude
(verb) – prevent (something) from happening.
Example: The rain precluded any outdoor activities.
precursor
(noun) – something that comes before something else and indicates its arrival.
Example: The invention of the printing press was a precursor to the information age.
predatory
(adjective) – seeking to exploit or harm others.
Example: The shark is a predatory fish.
predetermined
(adjective) – decided or planned in advance.
Example: The outcome of the election was predetermined.
predictive
(adjective) – able to forecast the future.
Example: The weather forecast was predictive and the storm hit as expected.
premeditated
(adjective) – planned or intended in advance.
Example: The murder was premeditated and the killer was caught.
prescribed
(adjective) – ordered or directed to be done.
Example: The doctor prescribed antibiotics for the infection.
presume
(verb) to take for granted or without evidence.
Example: She presumed that he would be home for dinner.
pretentious
(adjective) – trying to impress others with one’s importance or knowledge.
Example: The professor was a pretentious man who thought he knew everything.
prevail
(verb) to become the most powerful or influential.
Example: Good will always prevail over evil.
proceed
(verb) to continue or move forward.
Example: We proceeded with the plan as planned.
proficient
(adjective) – having a high level of skill or knowledge in a particular area.
Example: The surgeon was proficient in his field.
profound
(adjective) – deep or meaningful.
Example: The book was profound and made me think about my life in a new way.
profusion
(noun) – a large or great amount of something.
Example: The garden was in a profusion of flowers.
progeny
(noun) – the children or descendants of a person or animal.
Example: The king’s progeny ruled the kingdom for many years.
promulgate
(verb) – make (something) known or public.
Example: The government promulgated a new law.
proponent
(noun) – a person who supports a particular idea or cause.
Example: He is a proponent of stricter gun control laws.
prosper
(verb) – succeed or thrive.
Example: The business prospered under his leadership.
provoke
(verb) – to cause (something, especially anger, violence, or trouble) to happen.
Example: The rude remark provoked a fight.
proximity
(noun) – the state of being near or close.
Example: The two houses were in close proximity.
prudent
careful and avoiding risks
Example: It’s always prudent to read a contract carefully before signing it.
quarrel
(noun) – an angry argument or disagreement.
Example: The couple had a quarrel and didn’t speak to each other for a week.
rationalize
(verb) - to try to find reasons to explain your behavior, decisions, etc.
Example: She rationalized the cost by saying that an expensive carpet would last longer than a cheaper one.
rebuke
(verb) – to express disapproval or criticism of (someone) in a sharp or angry way.
Example: The teacher rebuked the student for talking in class.
rebut
(verb) – to argue against (something) effectively.
Example: The lawyer rebutted the witness’s testimony.
recant
(verb) – to withdraw or reject (a statement or belief) formally.
Example: The politician recanted his statement after it was revealed to be false
recapitulate
(verb) – to present or summarize the main points of something.*
Example: The student recapitulated the lecture for the class.
recede
(verb) – to move back or away.
Example: The tide receded from the shore.
reciprocate
(verb) – to give or do something in return for something received.
Example: The two countries agreed to reciprocate trade agreements.
redress
(verb) - to put right a wrong or give payment for a wrong that has been done
Example: Most managers, politicians and bosses are men - how can women redress the balance (= make the situation fairer and more equal)?
reductive
(adjective) – over-simplifying something by focusing on only one aspect of it.
Example: The argument was reductive and did not address the real issues.
refute
(verb) – to prove (a statement or theory) to be false.
Example: The scientist refuted the claim that climate change is not real.
regression
(noun) – a return to a less developed or earlier state.
Example: The patient’s condition showed signs of regression.
regulated
(adjective) – controlled or governed by rules or laws.
Example: The government regulated the financial industry to prevent another crisis.
reinforce
(verb) – strengthen or make stronger.
Example: The coach reinforced the team’s positive attitude.
render
(verb) – to produce or create something.
Example: The painter rendered the landscape in vivid detail.
renounce
(verb) – to give up or reject (something) formally.
Example: The monk renounced his worldly possessions and became a hermit.
repeal
(verb) – cancel or abolish (a law, order, or treaty).
Example: The legislature repealed the law that had been passed the previous year.
replicable
(adjective) – able to be copied or repeated.
Example: The experiment was replicable and the results were reliable.
repose
(verb) – to lay at rest
Example: The cat reposed on the windowsill in the sunlight.
representative
(noun) – a person who is chosen to speak or act for a group of people.
Example: The politician was a representative of the people.
repressed
(adjective) – forced to remain unconscious or unexpressed.
Example: The child’s memories of the abuse were repressed.
reproach
(noun) – a severe or angry criticism.
Example: The teacher reproached the student for not doing his homework.
repudiate
(verb) – reject or refuse to accept (something) as valid.
Example: The company repudiated the contract and refused to pay.
resignation
(noun) – the act of giving up a position or office.
Example: The employee submitted his resignation letter to the manager.
resilient
(adjective) – able to recover quickly from difficult or unpleasant experiences.
Example: The company was resilient and was able to weather the economic downturn.
restorative
(adjective) – tending to restore something to a healthy or normal condition.
Example: The treatment was restorative and the patient made a full recovery.
reticent
(adjective) – not inclined to say much or to be open in giving information.
Example: The witness was reticent to testify about what she had seen.
retract
(verb) – withdraw or cancel (a statement or opinion).
Example: The scientist retracted his paper after it was revealed to contain errors.
revere
(verb) – feel deep respect for (someone or something).
Example: The people revered the old man as a wise sage.
rhetorical
(adjective) – used to make an impression or to persuade rather than to state facts.
Example: The speech was rhetorical and did not offer any real solutions to the problems it addressed.
rigid
(adjective) – not flexible or adaptable.
Example: The rules were rigid and there was no room for flexibility.
rudimentary
(adjective) – basic or undeveloped.
Example: The child’s knowledge of the alphabet was rudimentary.
safeguard
(noun) – something that protects from danger or harm.
Example: The government implemented safeguards to protect the environment.
sanction
(verb) - to formally give permission for something
Example: The administration was reluctant to sanction intervention in the crisis.
scrupulous
(adjective) – very careful and honest in one’s work and dealings.
Example: The detective was scrupulous in his investigation.
scrutinize
(verb) – to look at something very carefully and critically.
Example: The lawyer scrutinized the contract for any errors.
singular
(adjective) – unique or unusual.
Example: The painting was singular in its beauty.
skeptical
(adjective) – not easily believing or accepting something.
Example: The scientist was skeptical of the claims made by the psychic.
societal
(adjective) – relating to society or its organization.
Example: The problems facing society are complex and multifaceted.
solitary
(adjective) – alone or isolated.
Example: The hiker was solitary in his journey through the wilderness.
somber
(adjective) – dark and gloomy.
Example: The mood was somber as the funeral procession passed by.
sparse
(adjective) – having very few things or people in a particular place.
Example: The population of the island was sparse.
spawn
(verb) – to produce young animals or eggs.
Example: The fish spawned in the shallow waters of the lake.
spectacle
(noun) – a very impressive or unusual sight.
Example: The parade was a spectacle of color and excitement.
speculate
(verb) – to form a theory or opinion about something without firm evidence.
Example: The economists speculated about the future of the economy.
squalid
(adjective) – dirty, neglected, and unpleasant.
Example: The neighborhood was squalid and rundown.
stagnant
(adjective) – not progressing or developing.
Example: The economy was stagnant and there was little growth.
stark
(adjective) – very clear or obvious.
Example: The contrast between the rich and the poor was stark.
static
(adjective) – not moving or changing.
Example: The painting was static and there was no sense of movement.
straightforward
(adjective) – easy to understand or deal with.
Example: The instructions were straightforward and easy to follow
subsequent
(adjective) – happening or coming after something else.
Example: The events that followed the assassination were subsequent to the event itself.
substantiate
(verb) – provide evidence to support (a claim or statement).
Example: The lawyer was able to substantiate the claims made by the client.
subsume
(verb) – include or contain something as part of a larger whole.
Example: The theory subsumes all of the known facts about the phenomenon.
subtle
(adjective) – delicate or refined in a way that is not obvious.
Example: The flavor was subtle and complex.
subversive
(adjective) – seeking to overthrow or undermine a government or institution.
Example: The group was subversive and opposed to the government.
succumb
(verb) – give way to something, especially pressure or temptation.
Example: The victim succumbed to his injuries.
sufficient
(adjective) – enough or as much as is needed.
Example: The amount of food was sufficient for everyone.
suffrage
(noun) – the right to vote in political elections.
Example: The women were granted suffrage in the early 20th century.
summarize
(verb) – give a brief account of the main points of something.
Example: The teacher summarized the main points of the lecture.
supervise
(verb) – to oversee the work of others.
Example: The manager supervised the work of the employees.
supplant
(verb) – replace or take the place of someone or something else.
Example: The new technology supplanted the old one.
supplement
(noun) – something that adds to something else to make it complete.
Example: The supplement provided additional information to the text.
supremacy
(noun) – the highest power or authority.
Example: The company has begun to challenge the supremacy of the current leading manufacturers in the textiles industry.
surmise
(verb) – form an opinion or belief about something without certain knowledge.
Example: The detective surmised that the killer was still at large.
suspend
(verb) – temporarily stop or delay something.
Example: The judge suspended the sentence of the convicted felon.
synchronized
(adjective) – happening or operating at the same time.
Example: The dancers synchronized their movements perfectly.
taut
(adjective) – stretched tight.
Example: The taut rope was strung between two trees.
tedious
(adjective) – very boring or tiresome.
Example: The tedious task of counting all the beans took hours.
tenacious
(adjective) – holding on firmly; not easily let go of.
Example: The tenacious dog refused to give up on the bone.
tenuous
(adjective) – weak or unreliable.
Example: The tenuous peace between the two countries was threatened by the latest violence.
theoretical
(adjective) - based on the ideas that relate to a subject, not the practical uses of that subject:
Example: On a theoretical level, hiring more people seems logical.
unadorned
(adjective) – without decoration or embellishment.
Example: The unadorned dress was simple but elegant.
unanimous
(adjective) – of one mind; in complete agreement.
Example: The unanimous vote of the council was a rare occurrence.
undermine
(verb) – to weaken or destroy something gradually or secretly.
Example: The government’s efforts to undermine the opposition were met with failure.
underscore
(verb) – to emphasize or draw attention to something.
Example: The teacher underscored the importance of the upcoming exam.
undertake
(verb) – to take on a task or responsibility.
Example: The company undertook a major restructuring in order to stay afloat.
undulate
(verb) – to move in waves or curves.
Example: The waves undulated gently on the surface of the lake.
unmitigated
(adjective) – complete or absolute.
Example: The unmitigated disaster of the hurricane left thousands of people homeless.
unveil
(verb) – to reveal something that has been hidden or secret.
Example: The magician unveiled the secret of his disappearing act.
upbeat
(adjective) – cheerful and optimistic.
Example: The upbeat mood of the party was contagious.
urbane
(adjective) – sophisticated and well-mannered.
Example: The urbane man was well-dressed and well-spoken.
vacillate
(verb) – to be undecided or to change one’s mind frequently.
Example: The politician vacillated between two different positions on the issue.
validate
(verb) – to confirm the truth or accuracy of something.
Example: The scientist validated the findings of the study.
venerable
(adjective) – respected and honored because of one’s age, wisdom, or character.
Example: The venerable old man was a respected member of the community.
verbose
(adjective) – using or containing too many words.
Example: The verbose speaker went on and on, never seeming to take a breath.
verisimilitude
(noun) – the appearance of being true or real.
Example: The verisimilitude of the painting was uncanny.
vestige
(noun) – a small amount or trace of something that is no longer present in large amounts.
Example: The vestiges of the old civilization were still visible in the ruins.
vilify
(verb) – to speak evil of someone in a malicious way.
Example: The politician vilified his opponent in a speech.
voluminous
(adjective) – large in size or quantity.
Example: The voluminous book was a daunting task to read.
waive
(verb) – to give up or relinquish something.
Example: The defendant waived his right to a jury trial.
warrant
(noun) – a document that gives someone the authority to do something.
Example: The police officer presented a warrant for the suspect’s arrest.
withdraw
(verb) – to take something back or away.
Example: The company withdrew its offer to buy the property.
withstand
(verb) – to resist or oppose something successfully.
Example: The city withstood the storm’s powerful wind.
yield
(verb) – to give in to someone or something.
Example: The army yielded to the enemy’s superior forces.
