Core SAT® Vocabulary

The word 'corpulence' is a great choice to focus on for your SAT exam preparation. Here's the information you need to know:

Phonetic Symbol: /ˈkɔːrpjʊləns/ (KOR-pyoo-luhns)

Origin: The word 'corpulence' comes from the Latin word 'corpus,' meaning 'body,' and the suffix '-ulence,' which is derived from the Latin word 'ulere,' meaning 'to swell.' This suffix is also seen in other words such as 'obulence' or 'abulence.'

Meaning: Corpulence refers to a state of being excessively fat or obese. It can also describe a condition where a body part is swollen or distended.

Example Usage: "The doctor warned the patient that her corpulence was a result of her unhealthy eating habits and lack of exercise."

Example SAT Problem: If you encounter a sentence like the following on the SAT:

"The city's plan to build a new sports complex has been met with opposition from residents, who claim that the proposed site is prone to corpulence due to its proximity to a nearby waterway."

The correct answer to the question would depend on the specific context, but you might be asked to identify the meaning of 'corpulence' in this sentence. You could expect a question like:

"A. The proposed site is likely to become a popular destination for tourists. B. The proposed site is likely to be affected by flooding. C. The proposed site is likely to become excessively fat or swollen. D. The proposed site is likely to be a health hazard.

The correct answer would be C, as 'corpulence' refers to a state of being excessively fat or swollen.

Remember, on the SAT, you might encounter vocabulary questions like this, and knowing the meaning and usage of words like 'corpulence' will help you choose the correct answer.

The word "corroborate" is a fascinating one, and I'm happy to help you understand it better for your SAT exam preparation.

Phonetic Symbol: /kɔrəˈbeɪt/ (kor-uh-BAYT)

Origin: The word "corroborate" comes from the Latin word "corroborare," which means "to strengthen" or "to confirm." It is derived from "cor" (meaning "body" or "stomach") and "borare" (meaning "to boil" or "to ferment").

Meaning: To corroborate means to provide evidence or support to something, especially a statement or a claim. It involves confirming or verifying the truth of something by adding more information or facts to it.

Example Usage: "The witnesses' testimony helped to corroborate the suspect's alibi, which proved that he was not at the scene of the crime."

SAT Problem:

Here's an example of how the word "corroborate" might be used in a SAT question:

Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows:

"The new study provides strong evidence to corroborate the findings of the previous research. The data collected in the study reveals that the new treatment is indeed effective in reducing symptoms of the disease."

Which of the following words is closest in meaning to the word "corroborate" in the passage?

A) Support B) Disprove C) Confuse D) Ignore

Answer: A) Support

In this example, the word "corroborate" is used to mean providing evidence or support to the findings of the previous research.

Tips for your SAT exam:

• Pay attention to the context in which the word "corroborate" is used.
• Understand the meaning of the word and how it is related to the concept of providing evidence or support.
• Practice using the word in different sentence structures to help you remember its meaning.

I hope this helps you with your SAT exam preparation! Let me know if you have any more questions or if there's anything else I can help you with.

Let's break down the word "corrosive".

Phonetic Symbol: /kɔˈrɒsɪv/ (koh-ROH-siv)

Origin: The word "corrosive" comes from the Latin word "corrodere", which means "to gnaw or wear away". This Latin term is a combination of "cor" (meaning "hole") and "rodere" (meaning "to gnaw").

Meaning: The word "corrosive" refers to something that causes damage or deterioration, typically by wearing away or eating into a surface. In chemistry, it describes a substance that can corrode or react with other materials, such as acids that can eat away metal.

Example Usage: "The corrosive effects of the ocean's saltwater on the ship's metal hull were a major concern for the sailors."

Example SAT Problem:

The passage below is about the effects of acid rain on buildings.

"The acid rain is a corrosive substance that can damage the limestone facade of the old building. The acid rain can also erode the stone and cause it to crumble."

Which of the following sentences best describes the effect of acid rain on the building?

A) The acid rain makes the building more attractive. B) The acid rain causes the building to grow stronger. C) The acid rain is a corrosive substance that can damage the building's facade. D) The acid rain has no effect on the building.

Correct answer: C) The acid rain is a corrosive substance that can damage the building's facade.

In this sentence, the word "corrosive" is used to describe the acid rain, highlighting its ability to cause damage or deterioration to the building's facade. This is an example of how the word "corrosive" can be used in a sentence to convey its meaning.

The word 'cosmopolitan' is a fascinating term that can be a bit tricky, but don't worry, I'm here to break it down for you.

Phonetic Symbol: /kɒzməʊˈpɒlɪtən/

Origin: The word 'cosmopolitan' comes from the Greek words 'kosmos' (κόσμος), meaning 'world' or 'universe,' and 'polites' (πολιτής), meaning 'citizen.' The term was first used in the 18th century to describe a citizen of the world.

Meaning: A cosmopolitan is someone who is worldly, sophisticated, and open-minded, often having international knowledge and experiences. It can also refer to a city or place that is culturally diverse and international.

Example Usage:

• "She's a cosmopolitan woman who has lived in several countries and speaks multiple languages."
• "The cosmopolitan city of New York is known for its diverse cultural scene."

Example SAT Problem:

Here's an example SAT question that involves the word 'cosmopolitan':

"Choose the word that best fits the blank space:

The new restaurant in town is a ___ eatery, serving dishes from around the world and featuring a diverse menu.

A) provincial B) cosmopolitan C) regional D) local"

The correct answer is B) cosmopolitan, as the restaurant is described as serving dishes from around the world and featuring a diverse menu, which fits the definition of cosmopolitan.

When answering this question, be sure to read the sentence carefully and choose the word that best fits the context. In this case, the word 'cosmopolitan' accurately describes the restaurant's international and diverse atmosphere.

I hope this helps you feel more confident when encountering the word 'cosmopolitan' on the SAT!

The word "counteract" is a fascinating one, and I'm happy to break it down for you.

Phonetic Symbol: /kaʊntərˈækt/ (KOUNT-ur-akt)

Origin: The word "counteract" has its roots in Latin, where it is derived from the verb "contra" (meaning "against" or "opposite") and "actor," which means "doer" or "performer." The word entered Middle English as "counteracten," and its meaning has evolved over time.

Meaning: The word "counteract" means to take action or measures that oppose or neutralize the effects of something else. It can also imply a reversal or correction of an action or effect.

Example Usage: "The new policy aimed to counteract the negative impact of the economic downturn on local businesses."

Example SAT Problem: Here's a sample SAT question that involves the word "counteract":

Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.

"The city's decision to invest in green infrastructure has helped to counteract the effects of climate change, which had been causing frequent flooding in the area. However, some critics argue that the investment is not sufficient to address the issue."

Question: The word "counteract" in the passage most nearly means:

A) to strengthen or support B) to take action against or oppose C) to make something worse or more severe D) to ignore or disregard

Correct answer: B) to take action against or oppose

In this example, the word "counteract" is used to describe the city's efforts to take action against the negative effects of climate change.

I hope this helps you understand the word "counteract" better, and I wish you the best of luck on your SAT exam!

The word 'coup' can be a challenging one for many students. Here's a breakdown of the word:

Phonetic Symbol: /kuː/ (koo)

Origin: The word 'coup' comes from the French language, where it is derived from the Old French word 'coup', meaning a blow or a stroke. This, in turn, is derived from the Latin word 'colpus', which also means a blow or a stroke.

Meaning: A 'coup' refers to a sudden, often violent, takeover of power, especially by a small group of people. It can also refer to a sudden, decisive, and often unexpected event that changes the situation.

Example Usage: "The military leaders staged a coup and overthrew the government." or "The new policy was a coup for the company, resulting in a significant increase in sales."

Example SAT Problem:

Here's an example of how the word 'coup' might be used in an SAT question:

"Passage: The country has been plagued by corruption and poor governance for years. In a bold move, a group of military officers staged a coup and took control of the government.

Question: The coup was a sudden and unexpected event that changed the course of the country's history. What can be inferred about the mood of the people after the coup?

A) They were angry and frustrated. B) They were relieved and optimistic. C) They were indifferent and apathetic. D) They were afraid and anxious.

Correct answer: B) They were relieved and optimistic.

In this example, the word 'coup' is used to describe a sudden and unexpected event that changes the situation. The correct answer, B) They were relieved and optimistic, is supported by the context of the passage, which suggests that the people were eager for change and saw the coup as a positive development."

I hope this helps you better understand the word 'coup' and how it might be used in an SAT question!

The word "covert" is a fascinating one. Let's break it down:

Phonetic Symbol: /ˈkoʊvərt/ (KOH-vurt)

Origin: The word "covert" has its roots in Old French and Latin. It comes from the Latin word "covertus," which is the past participle of "covertire," meaning "to cover." This Latin word is derived from "co-," meaning "together," and "vertire," meaning "to turn."

Meaning: The word "covert" has several meanings, but the most common ones are:

• Hidden or concealed from view or detection.
• Secret or clandestine in nature.
• Concealed or disguised, often to avoid detection or recognition.

Example Usage:

• "The spy worked covertly to gather information without being detected."
• "The company's covert operations were shrouded in secrecy."
• "The covert message was hidden within the seemingly innocuous email."

Example SAT Problem:

Here's a sample SAT question that involves the word "covert":

Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.

"Despite its reputation for transparency, the government has been accused of conducting covert surveillance on its citizens. Critics argue that this practice undermines trust in the government and erodes civil liberties. Proponents, on the other hand, claim that covert surveillance is necessary to prevent terrorism and protect national security."

Which of the following inferences can be drawn from the passage?

A) The government is transparent about its surveillance practices. B) Covert surveillance is a necessary tool for national security. C) Critics of the government's surveillance practices are being monitored covertly. D) The government's covert surveillance practices are a violation of civil liberties.

Answer: D) The government's covert surveillance practices are a violation of civil liberties.

In this example, the word "covert" is used to describe the government's surveillance practices, emphasizing that they are hidden or concealed from view.

Now, let's practice with a few more questions. Do you want to try a few more examples involving the word "covert"?

The word 'covet' is an excellent choice for the SAT exam. Here's a breakdown of the word:

Phonetic Symbol: /ˈkɒvɪt/ (KOV-it)

Origin: The word 'covet' comes from the Old French word 'coveter,' which means 'to desire or long for.' This Old French word is derived from the Latin word 'convitare,' which also means 'to desire or long for.'

Meaning: Covet means to feel a strong and often secret desire for someone else's possession, property, or advantage. It can also imply a sense of envy or resentment towards someone who has what you want.

Example Usage: "She coveted her sister's new designer handbag and couldn't help but feel jealous when she saw it."

Example SAT Problem:

Sentence Completion: The wealthy businessman's luxurious mansion and private jet were the envy of his friends, who ______ (A) coveted his success and wealth. (A) admire (B) resent (C) envied (D) admired

Correct Answer: (C) envied

Note that while 'covet' and 'envy' are similar, 'covet' implies a stronger, more intense desire for something that belongs to someone else. In this example, the correct answer is 'envy,' but if the sentence were rephrased to emphasize the strong desire, 'covet' would be a better choice.

In the context of the SAT exam, understanding the nuances of words like 'covet' can help you improve your vocabulary and sentence completion skills.

Excellent choice of word for the SAT exam. The word "credulity" is a fascinating term that can be a bit tricky to understand, but don't worry, I'm here to break it down for you.

Phonetic Symbol: /krɛˈdjuːlɪti/

Origin: The word "credulity" comes from the Latin word "credulitas," which is derived from "credulus," meaning "readily believing" or "credulous."

Meaning: Credulity refers to the quality of being easily deceived or gullible, often due to a willingness to believe something without sufficient evidence or critical thinking.

Example Usage: "The traveling salesman's tall tales had a way of winning over the locals with their credulity, but eventually, people began to see through his deception."

In this example, "credulity" highlights the willingness of the locals to believe the salesman's outlandish stories without questioning their validity.

SAT Problem Example:

Read the passage below:

"The tourists were taken in by the local's claim that the ancient ruins were haunted by the spirits of their ancestors. The guide's vivid descriptions and eerie atmosphere only added to their credulity, making them more susceptible to the guide's fabricated stories."

This passage illustrates the concept of credulity, where the tourists are easily deceived by the guide's tales due to their willingness to believe without sufficient evidence.

Analysis: A question on the SAT exam might ask you to identify the meaning of "credulity" in the context of the passage. For example:

"Which of the following best describes the tourists' attitude towards the guide's stories?

A) Skepticism B) Credulity C) Disinterest D) Ambivalence"

The correct answer would be B) Credulity, as the passage highlights the tourists' willingness to believe the guide's tales without questioning their validity.

Remember, understanding words like "credulity" is essential for tackling complex passages and identifying the author's tone, purpose, and meaning on the SAT exam.

The word "crescendo" is an excellent choice for SAT preparation. Let's break it down:

Phonetic Symbol: /krɛsˈtʃɛndoʊ/

Origin: The word "crescendo" comes from Italian, where it is derived from the Latin words "crescere," meaning "to grow" or "to increase," and the suffix "-endo," which is an infinitive ending. Italian musicians used this term to describe the gradual increase in volume or intensity of music.

Meaning: A crescendo refers to a gradual increase in volume, intensity, or excitement, often used to describe a dramatic or emotional moment. It can also be used to describe a situation where something is building up or getting stronger.

Example Usage: "The crowd's applause reached a crescendo as the home team scored the winning goal."

Example SAT Problem:

Here's a possible SAT problem that incorporates the word "crescendo":

Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.

The symphony orchestra's performance was a masterclass in emotional manipulation. The conductor's use of dynamics created a sense of tension and anticipation, which reached a crescendo in the final movement. As the music swelled, the audience was on the edge of their seats, completely enthralled by the performance.

The author's use of the word "crescendo" suggests that the orchestra's performance is characterized by:

A) A series of loud and jarring notes B) A gradual increase in volume or intensity C) A sudden and dramatic change in tempo D) A lack of emotional expression

Answer: B) A gradual increase in volume or intensity.

This problem tests your understanding of the word "crescendo" and its connotation, as well as your ability to analyze the author's use of language in a passage.

The word 'criteria' is a commonly tested word in the SAT exam.

Phonetic Symbol: /krɪˈtiːriə/ (kri-TEE-ree-uh)

Origin: The word 'criteria' has its roots in Greek, specifically from the words 'kritērion,' meaning 'judge' or 'standard,' and 'krinein,' meaning 'to separate' or 'to judge.'

Meaning: 'Criteria' refers to the principles or standards used to judge or evaluate something. It can also refer to the conditions or requirements that must be met in order to be considered acceptable or valid.

Example Usage: "The criteria for admission to the university include a minimum GPA of 3.5 and a certain number of hours of community service."

Example SAT Problem:

Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

"The museum's new exhibition on ancient artifacts was judged by a panel of experts who evaluated each piece based on several ___."

A) criteria B) criterions C) critiquers D) critiques

The correct answer is A) criteria. This question requires the student to understand the meaning of 'criteria' as standards or principles used to judge or evaluate something.

Note: The word 'criteria' is often confused with the word 'criterion,' which refers to a single standard or principle used to judge or evaluate something. However, in this sentence, the correct answer is 'criteria,' as it refers to multiple standards or principles.

The word 'culmination' is a fascinating one, and I'd be happy to help you understand it better.

Phonetic Symbol: /kʌlˈmɪneɪʃən/ (kul-mih-NAY-shun)

Origin: The word 'culmination' comes from the Latin word 'culminare', which means 'to reach the highest point'. This Latin root is also the source of the word 'culminate', which means 'to reach the highest point or climax'.

Meaning: The word 'culmination' refers to the highest or most intense point of something, such as a period of time, a process, or an event. It can also refer to the peak or climax of a person's career or achievement.

Example Usage: "The culmination of her hard work and dedication was her acceptance into the prestigious university." or "The firework display reached its culmination at midnight, when the sky was filled with colorful explosions."

Example SAT Problem:

Read the passage below and choose the best answer.

"The team's victory was the culmination of months of arduous training and rigorous practice. Their hard work paid off when they won the championship game."

Which of the following best describes the meaning of 'culmination' in the passage?

A) The beginning of the team's journey B) The team's greatest loss C) The peak or climax of their efforts D) The end of the season

The correct answer is C) The peak or climax of their efforts. This question tests your ability to understand the meaning of 'culmination' and its context in the passage.

I hope this helps you prepare for your SAT exam! Do you have any other questions about the word 'culmination' or would you like to learn about another word?

The word 'culpable' is an essential term for SAT English preparation, particularly in the context of vocabulary and reading comprehension. Here's a breakdown of the word:

Phonetic Symbol: /ˈkælpəbəl/ (KAL-puh-buhl)

Origin: The word 'culpable' comes from the Latin term 'culpabilis,' which means 'guilty' or 'responsible.'

Meaning: 'Culpable' is an adjective that describes someone or something that is responsible or guilty of a fault, wrongdoing, or crime. It implies that the person or entity has committed a moral or legal offense.

Example Usage: "The company was found culpable for the environmental damage caused by their factory's emissions."

Example SAT Problem: Consider the following passage:

"The manager of the company was accused of embezzling funds. Although he denied the charges, an investigation revealed that he had indeed misused the company's resources. Given this information, it can be inferred that the manager is..."

A) Culpable for the embezzlement B) Innocent of the charges C) Responsible for the company's financial losses D) A victim of circumstance

The correct answer is A) Culpable for the embezzlement, as the passage suggests that the manager is guilty of embezzling funds.

When preparing for the SAT, it's essential to familiarize yourself with vocabulary like 'culpable,' which can help you better understand complex passages and answer questions correctly.

The word 'cultivate' is a great choice for your SAT exam preparation. Here's a breakdown of the word:

Phonetic Symbol: /kʌlˈtɪvɪt/

Origin: The word 'cultivate' comes from the Latin word 'colere,' which means 'to cultivate' or 'to till.' This Latin word is also the source of other English words like 'cultivation,' 'cultivate,' and 'cultivated.'

Meaning: The word 'cultivate' means to prepare and work on land for growing plants, or to develop or improve a particular skill or quality. It can also mean to encourage the growth of something, such as a talent or a passion.

Example Usage: Here are a few examples of how to use the word 'cultivate' in a sentence:

• The farmer carefully cultivates the soil to ensure a successful harvest.
• To cultivate her talent for singing, she practiced every day for hours.
• The company aims to cultivate a positive work environment for its employees.

Example SAT Problem: Here's a sample SAT problem that involves the word 'cultivate':

Question: Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.

Passage: To cultivate a love of learning, the principal of the school decided to implement a new program. The program, called "Learning by Doing," allowed students to participate in hands-on activities and projects that encouraged them to explore their interests.

Question: According to the passage, what is the purpose of the "Learning by Doing" program?

A) To provide students with a lot of homework. B) To encourage students to develop their talents. C) To help students learn new skills. D) To provide students with a lot of freedom.

Correct Answer: B) To encourage students to develop their talents.

In this passage, the word 'cultivate' is used to describe the purpose of the "Learning by Doing" program. The program is designed to encourage students to develop their talents and interests, which is an example of cultivating a particular skill or quality.

I hope this helps you to better understand the word 'cultivate' and how it can be used in a sentence!

The word you're looking for is "cumulative." Here's a breakdown of the information you requested:

Phonetic Symbol: /kyuːmʌlətɪv/ (kyoo-muh-luh-tiv)

Origin: The word "cumulative" comes from the Latin word "cumulare," which means "to heap up" or "to accumulate." This Latin word is a combination of "cum," meaning "together," and "ulare," meaning "to heap."

Meaning: The word "cumulative" refers to the process of adding or accumulating something over time, often resulting in a growing or increasing total. It can also describe a system or process that builds up gradually, often through the addition of new elements.

Example Usage: "The company's revenue has been cumulative over the past five years, with an average annual growth rate of 10%."

Example SAT Problem: Here's an example question:

Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.

"The city has been working on a comprehensive plan to reduce traffic congestion. The plan includes the construction of new roads, the expansion of public transportation, and the implementation of a congestion pricing system. However, the city's efforts have been cumulative, with each new project building on the success of the previous one."

Which of the following best describes the meaning of the word "cumulative" in this context?

A) The city's efforts have been focused on a single project. B) The city's efforts have been successful in reducing traffic congestion. C) The city's efforts have been building on each other to achieve a greater impact. D) The city's efforts have been unsuccessful in reducing traffic congestion.

The correct answer is C) The city's efforts have been building on each other to achieve a greater impact.

In this example, the word "cumulative" is used to describe the process of adding or accumulating the city's efforts, with each new project building on the success of the previous one to achieve a greater impact.

The word 'cunning' is an adjective that has a rich history and nuanced meaning. Let's break it down:

Phonetic Symbol: /ˈkʌnɪŋ/

Origin: The word 'cunning' comes from the Old English word 'cunnian,' which means 'to know' or 'to be aware of.' It is also related to the Old Norse word 'kunna,' which has a similar meaning.

Meaning: 'Cunning' typically means having or showing cleverness, skill, or resourcefulness in a way that is not necessarily admirable. It can also imply a level of cleverness that is often used for deceitful or misleading purposes.

Example Usage: "The cunning thief managed to sneak past the security guards and escape with the valuable artifact."

In this example, the word 'cunning' implies that the thief was clever and skilled in evading detection, but in a way that is not necessarily admirable.

SAT Problem Example:

Read the sentence below and choose the word that best fits in the blank:

"The detective was known for his _ methods, which often involved gathering information from multiple sources."

A) cunning B) honest C) careless D) efficient

The correct answer is A) cunning. This is because the word 'cunning' implies a level of cleverness or skill that is often used for deceitful or misleading purposes, which fits with the detective's methods in the sentence.

When answering this question on the SAT, you would need to understand the nuances of the word 'cunning' and how it is used in the sentence. You would also need to be able to distinguish it from other words that have similar meanings, such as 'clever' or 'resourceful,' which do not necessarily imply a level of deceitfulness.

Cupidity is a fascinating word that can be challenging for many students. Let's break it down:

Pronunciation: /kjʊˈpɪdɪti/ (KYOO-pid-i-tee) Origin: Cupidity comes from the Latin word 'cupido,' which means 'desire' or 'lust.' Meaning: Cupidity refers to excessive or insatiable desire, especially for wealth, power, or sensual pleasures. It can also imply a greedy or avaricious attitude.

Example Usage: "The politician's cupidity for power led him to engage in corrupt practices that compromised his integrity."

SAT Example Problem:

Read the passage below and choose the best answer to the question that follows.

"The wealthy merchant's cupidity for gold led him to invest in a speculative scheme that ultimately ruined him. The merchant's decision was motivated by his desire for wealth above all else."

The passage suggests that the merchant's cupidity for gold was a major factor in his downfall. Which of the following inferences can be drawn about the merchant's character?

A) He was a cautious investor. B) He was driven by a desire for wealth, which led him to take risks. C) He was not motivated by a desire for wealth. D) He was a successful businessman.

Correct answer: B) He was driven by a desire for wealth, which led him to take risks.

This question requires the student to understand the concept of cupidity and its implications on the merchant's character. The correct answer choice, B, demonstrates an understanding of the merchant's motivations and the consequences of his actions.

As you prepare for the SAT, remember that cupidity is a word that can be used to describe excessive or insatiable desires, and it often carries a negative connotation. Be prepared to recognize and analyze its use in passages and questions.

The word "cursory" is an excellent choice for SAT preparation. Here's a breakdown of the word:

Phonetic Symbol: /ˈkərsəri/ (KUR-suh-ree)

Origin: The word "cursory" comes from the Latin "cursus," meaning "running" or "course." In Latin, "cursus" is also the root for the word "course," which refers to a path or a journey.

Meaning: "Cursory" is an adjective that means giving a brief or superficial glance, examination, or consideration. It describes something that is hastily done or not thoroughly examined.

Example Usage: "The editor gave the manuscript a cursory glance before sending it to the publisher." In this example, the editor is only giving a brief look at the manuscript, which may not be thorough enough.

Example SAT Problem: Here's an example of how "cursory" might appear in a SAT question:

Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.

"The company's financial report was rushed to completion, with many areas receiving a cursory review. As a result, several errors were overlooked."

Which of the following best describes the tone of the passage?

A) Critical B) Objective C) Cursory D) Condescending

The correct answer is C) Cursory, because the passage describes the financial report as receiving a "cursory review," implying that it was not thoroughly examined.

To answer this question correctly, you should be able to identify the meaning of "cursory" and understand how it is used in context.