Vocabulary Study Tool #4

Question 1

Equivocate (v.)

Answer 1

To use ambiguous language so as to conceal the truth or avoid committing oneself.

Syn. = unreliable or misleading language

Question 2

Hedonism (n.)

Answer 2

The pursuit of pleasure, especially of the senses.

Syn. = pleasure seeking; self-indulgence

Question 3

Nefarious (adj.)

Answer 3

To describe an action or activity that is wicked or criminal.

Syn. = evil; diabolical; despicable

Question 4

Perfunctory (adj.)

Answer 4

Carried out with a minimum of effort or reflection.

Syn. = inattentive; automatic; mechanical

Question 5

Besmirch (v.)

Answer 5

To damage the reputation of (someone or something) in the opinion of others

Syn. = stain; disgrace; damage

Question 6

Demeanor (n.)

Answer 6

One’s manner of appearance and conduct.

Syn. = behavior; attitude

Question 7

Imperative (adj.)

Answer 7

Of vital importance

Syn. = critical; priority

Question 8

Sadistic (adj.)

Answer 8

Deriving pleasure from inflicting pain on others

Syn. = bestial; cruel; ruthless

Question 9

Facetious (adj.)

Answer 9

Treating serious issues with deliberately inappropriate humor

Syn. = joking; witty

Question 10

Recapitulate (v.)

Answer 10

To summarize

Syn. = recap

Question 11

Baroque (adj.)Baroque (adj.)

Answer 11

Overly decorated

Syn. = ornate; rich; extravagant

Question 12

Deluge (n.)

Answer 12

A severe flood

Syn. = downpour; excessive rain

Question 13

Debacle (n.)

Answer 13

A complete failure

Syn. = disaster; mess; fiasco

Question 14

Quasi- (adj.)

Answer 14

Seemingly; apparently but not really.

Syn. = supposedly; superficially

Question 15

Sacrosanct (adj.)

Answer 15

important or valuable

Syn. = sacred; above criticism