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A curated collection of vocabulary notes to help you ace the verbal section. Master these words and boost your score.
The word "ephemeral" is a wonderful choice to focus on. Here's a breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ɛˈfɛmərəl/ (eh-FEM-uh-ral)
Origin: The word "ephemeral" comes from the Latin word "ephemeris," which is derived from the Greek word "ἐφήμερος" (ephēmeros), meaning "daily." This term was originally used to describe a daily astronomical table that recorded the positions of celestial bodies.
Meaning: Ephemeral refers to something that is transitory or fleeting, lasting for a very short time. It can describe a feeling, an experience, or an event that is temporary and may disappear quickly.
Example Usage: "The firefly's glow was ephemeral, lasting only for a few seconds before it disappeared in the darkness."
Example SAT Problem: Here's a sample SAT question that involves the word "ephemeral":
Choice A) As the summer solstice approached, the ephemeral beauty of the sunset was a sight to behold. Choice B) The city's vibrant nightlife is an ephemeral phenomenon that disappears as soon as the sun rises. Choice C) The artist's use of light and shadow created an ephemeral atmosphere in her painting. Choice D) The company's profits were ephemeral, as they were based on a single successful product.
The correct answer would be Choice B) The city's vibrant nightlife is an ephemeral phenomenon that disappears as soon as the sun rises. This sentence effectively uses the word "ephemeral" to describe something that is transitory and fleeting.
When approaching this question, consider how the word "ephemeral" is used in each sentence. Look for the one that accurately conveys the idea of something being short-lived or temporary.
Excellent choice of word for the SAT exam! The word "epistolary" is a fascinating term that you should be familiar with.
Phonetic Symbol: /ɛpɪˈstoʊləri/ (EP-i-STOH-ler-ee)
Origin: The word "epistolary" comes from the Latin words "epistola," meaning "letter," and the suffix "-ary," which forms an adjective. In Latin, "epistola" is derived from the Greek word "ἐπιστολή" (epistolē), which also means "letter."
Meaning: An epistolary narrative is a story that is told through a series of letters, diaries, or other documents. The term is often used to describe novels or stories that are composed of letters, journals, or other written materials.
Example Usage: "The novel is an epistolary tale, composed of a series of letters exchanged between the protagonist and his loved one."
Example SAT Problem: Here's an example of how "epistolary" might be used in a SAT sentence completion question:
"Which of the following best completes the sentence?
The author's use of diaries and letters in her novel makes it an ___ narrative, engaging the reader in a unique way.
A) chronological B) epistolary C) narrative D) descriptive"
The correct answer is B) epistolary, as the novel is composed of a series of letters and diaries that tell the story.
Tips for the SAT Exam: When you encounter the word "epistolary" on the SAT exam, think of it as a story told through written documents. The word is often used to describe novels or stories that use this unique narrative structure. To answer questions correctly, make sure you understand the meaning of the word and can apply it to different contexts.
I hope this helps you prepare for the SAT exam! Do you have any other questions about the word "epistolary" or any other topics related to the SAT exam?
The word "epitome" is a fascinating term that you should be familiar with for your SAT exam. Here's a breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ɛˈpɪtoʊm/ (e-PIT-ohm)
Origin: The word "epitome" comes from the Greek word "ἐπिटομή" (epitome), which is derived from "ἐπί" (epi), meaning "upon" or "on top of," and "τμή" (tme), meaning "cut." In ancient Greek, an epitome referred to a summary or a concise version of a work.
Meaning: The word "epitome" refers to the embodiment or personification of a particular quality, characteristic, or ideal. It can also describe something that is a perfect example or a quintessential representation of a particular concept or idea.
Example Usage: "She was the epitome of elegance, with her poised demeanor and exquisite taste." (Here, the person is an embodiment of elegance.)
Example SAT Problem: Let's consider a sample SAT question:
"Choose the word that best fits the context:
The company's commitment to environmental sustainability is an ____ of corporate social responsibility.
A) anomaly B) paradox C) epitome D) euphemism
Correct Answer: C) epitome
Explanation: The correct answer is "epitome" because the company's commitment to environmental sustainability is a perfect example or quintessential representation of corporate social responsibility. The other options don't quite fit the context: "anomaly" implies something unusual or out of place, "paradox" suggests a contradictory situation, and "euphemism" refers to a mild or indirect way of expressing an unpleasant idea."
I hope this helps you understand the word "epitome" better and how to apply it in SAT-style questions!
Let's break down the word "equanimity."
Phonetic Symbol: /ɪkwəˈnæmɪtɪ/ (i-kwuh-NAM-i-tee)
Origin: The word "equanimity" comes from the Latin words "aequus" (meaning "equal") and "animus" (meaning "soul" or "mind"). In Latin, the word "aequanimus" was used to describe someone who remains calm and composed in the face of difficulties or challenges.
Meaning: Equanimity refers to a state of being calm, composed, and serene, especially in the face of challenges or difficulties. It describes a person's ability to remain balanced and unruffled, even when faced with stressful or trying circumstances.
Example Usage: "She maintained her equanimity throughout the turbulent meeting, keeping her cool and composed even when others were losing their temper."
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"It's not easy to stay calm in the midst of chaos, but Sarah's equanimity was a beacon of hope for her friends. As the news of the cancellation spread, some people were panicked and frantic, but Sarah remained unruffled, reassuring everyone that they would get through this together."
The question: "The word 'equanimity' in the passage most nearly means"
A) A state of being frantic and panicky B) A state of being calm and composed C) A state of being angry and agitated D) A state of being confused and disoriented
Correct answer: B) A state of being calm and composed
In this example, the word "equanimity" is used to describe Sarah's ability to remain calm and composed in the face of chaos and uncertainty. The correct answer, B) A state of being calm and composed, reflects the meaning of the word as discussed above.
The word 'equivocal' is a fascinating choice for the SAT exam. Here's a breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ɛvɪˈkoʊkəl/ (e-vih-KOH-kul)
Origin: The word 'equivocal' comes from the Latin 'equivocare,' which means 'to speak or interpret in two ways.' This Latin term is derived from 'aequivocus,' meaning 'having two meanings,' and is a combination of 'aequi,' meaning 'equal,' and 'vocus,' meaning 'voice.'
Meaning: 'Equivocal' is an adjective that describes a word or phrase that has two or more meanings, often leading to ambiguity or confusion. It can also describe a situation or statement that is ambiguous or open to multiple interpretations.
Example Usage: "The politician's statement was equivocal, leaving many to wonder whether she supported the proposal or not."
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The teacher asked the student why he was late to class. The student replied, 'I had to take care of a personal matter.' The teacher thought this response was a little too vague and asked him to explain further. The student said, 'I had to take my dog to the vet.'"
What does the student's response imply about his intentions?
A) He was genuinely concerned about his dog's health. B) He was trying to avoid responsibility for being late. C) He was trying to be equivocal about his reasons for being late. D) He was simply telling the truth.
Correct answer: C) He was trying to be equivocal about his reasons for being late.
In this question, the word 'equivocal' is used to describe the student's response, which is ambiguous and open to multiple interpretations. The correct answer, C, suggests that the student was trying to be clever and avoid giving a clear answer, making his response 'equivocal.'
The word 'erudite' is an excellent choice for SAT preparation. Here's a breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ɜːˈruːdaɪt/ (ur-oo-DITE)
Origin: The word 'erudite' comes from the Latin 'erudire', meaning 'to educate' or 'to instruct'. This Latin word is a combination of 'e', a prefix indicating 'out', and 'rudis', meaning 'rough' or 'uninstructed'.
Meaning: An erudite person is someone who is highly educated, learned, or knowledgeable in various subjects, often with a deep understanding of literature, history, or philosophy.
Example Usage: "The erudite professor's lectures on Renaissance literature were highly acclaimed by the students."
Example SAT Problem: Consider the following sentence:
"The new employee's extensive knowledge of the company's history made her a valuable asset to the team."
Which of the following words best describes the employee?
A) Erudite B) Inexperienced C) Ambitious D) Disorganized
The correct answer is A) Erudite, as the employee's knowledge of the company's history demonstrates her erudition.
In SAT English, you may encounter questions that test your ability to identify the correct word choice based on the context. In this case, 'erudite' is the best choice because it conveys the employee's high level of knowledge and education.
The word 'eschew' is a great choice for SAT preparation. Here's the breakdown:
Phonetic Symbol: /ɪˈʃuː/ (i-SHOO)
Origin: The word 'eschew' comes from the Old French word 'eschiver,' which is derived from the Latin word 'exsilire,' meaning 'to leap out of' or 'to shun.' Over time, the word evolved into its modern English form.
Meaning: The primary meaning of 'eschew' is to deliberately avoid or shun something, often because it is considered unpleasant, difficult, or unnecessary. It implies a deliberate choice to steer clear of something.
Example Usage: Here's a sentence: "The hikers decided to eschew the steep path and take the easier route through the forest."
In this example, the hikers deliberately chose to avoid the steep path because it seemed too challenging.
SAT Example Problem: Here's a possible SAT question:
Passage: "The artist, known for her bold style, decided to eschew the traditional techniques of her peers and create something entirely new. Critics praised her innovative approach, but some viewers felt that the piece lacked cohesion."
Question: "The artist's choice to eschew traditional techniques was a deliberate decision, implying that she valued"
A) originality over skill B) skill over originality C) tradition over innovation D) coherence over creativity
Answer: A) Originality over skill
In this example, the correct answer (A) reflects the artist's deliberate choice to avoid traditional techniques, which aligns with the meaning of 'eschew.'
The word "esoteric" is an excellent choice for SAT preparation. Here's a detailed breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /iːsəˈtɛrɪk/ (ee-soh-TER-ik)
Origin: The word "esoteric" comes from the Greek word "ἐσώτερικος" (esōterikos), meaning "belonging to an inner circle." This Greek word is derived from "ἔσω" (esō), meaning "within," and "τέρως" (teros), meaning "inner."
Meaning: "Esoteric" refers to knowledge or teachings that are intended for or understood by a select group of people, usually those with specialized knowledge or expertise. It can also describe something that is mysterious or obscure, and not easily understood by the general public.
Example Usage: "The artist's latest installation was an esoteric piece that required the viewer to decipher a series of cryptic symbols to fully appreciate its meaning."
Example SAT Problem: Here's a sample SAT question that incorporates the word "esoteric":
Which of the following words best describes the novel's complex, symbolic ending?
A) Exoteric B) Esoteric C) Obfuscate D) Enigmatic
Correct answer: B) Esoteric. The novel's complex, symbolic ending suggests that it is intended for a select group of readers who are familiar with the author's themes and motifs, making it an "esoteric" example.
In this question, the word "esoteric" is used to describe something that is complex, mysterious, and intended for a select group of people. The correct answer, B) Esoteric, requires the test-taker to understand the nuances of the word and its connotation.
The word 'espouse' is a great choice for the SAT exam. Here's the information you'll need:
Phonetic Symbol: /ɪˈspoʊz/ (i-SPOHZ)
Origin: The word 'espouse' comes from the Old French word 'espouser', which is derived from the Latin word 'sponsus', meaning 'betrothed' or 'engaged'. This Latin word is also the source of the English word 'sponsore'.
Meaning: To espouse something means to support, advocate, or agree with an idea, policy, or cause. It can also mean to marry or become engaged to someone.
Example Usage: "The politician espoused progressive policies to appeal to her constituents." In this sentence, the politician is advocating or supporting the progressive policies.
Example SAT Problem: Here's an example of how 'espouse' might be used in a SAT reading comprehension question:
Passage: "The environmental activist has long espoused the importance of reducing carbon emissions to mitigate climate change."
Question: "What does the activist believe is crucial for addressing climate change?"
A) Reducing carbon emissions B) Increasing carbon emissions C) Ignoring climate change D) Focusing on other environmental issues
Correct answer: A) Reducing carbon emissions
In this question, the passage uses the word 'espoused' to indicate that the activist is supporting or advocating for the reduction of carbon emissions. The correct answer reflects this idea.
When answering SAT questions involving 'espouse', pay close attention to the context in which the word is used. The word can have different meanings depending on the situation, so make sure to carefully read the passage and understand the author's intended meaning.
The word "ethereal" is a fascinating one. Let's break it down:
Phonetic Symbol: /iˈθɪriəl/ (ee-theer-ee-uhl)
Origin: The word "ethereal" comes from the Greek word "aether" (αἰθήρ), meaning "upper air" or "ethereal matter." In ancient Greek mythology, aether was considered the upper atmosphere or the realm of the gods. The term was later adopted into Latin as "aetherius," and eventually into Middle English as "ethereal."
Meaning: "Ethereal" typically means extremely delicate and light in a way that seems too perfect for this world. It can also describe something as being intangible, insubstantial, or spiritual. In a more poetic sense, it can convey a sense of otherworldliness or a connection to the divine.
Example Usage: "The ethereal music of the glass harmonica filled the concert hall, transporting the audience to a realm of pure beauty." In this example, the word "ethereal" is used to describe the music as delicate and otherworldly, evoking a sense of wonder and enchantment.
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The aurora borealis, or northern lights, is a natural light display that appears in the polar skies. It is a breathtaking spectacle, with shimmering curtains of green and purple light dancing across the horizon. Some scientists believe that the aurora is a result of solar flares interacting with the Earth's magnetic field, while others propose that it is a manifestation of the collective unconscious, a concept devised by Carl Jung. Whatever the explanation, the aurora remains an ethereal and awe-inspiring phenomenon."
The passage suggests that the aurora borealis is most likely an example of which of the following?
A) A spectacular display of natural beauty B) A demonstration of the Earth's magnetic field C) A manifestation of the collective unconscious D) A scientific phenomenon that can be fully explained by data and evidence
Correct answer: A) A spectacular display of natural beauty. The word "ethereal" in this context emphasizes the otherworldly and awe-inspiring quality of the aurora borealis.
Remember, when you encounter the word "ethereal" on the SAT, look for its connotations of delicacy, lightness, and otherworldliness. It's often used to describe something that's hard to put into words or grasp, something that's almost too perfect or beautiful for this world.
I'd be happy to help you understand the word "etymology."
Phonetic Symbol: /ɛtəˈmɑlədʒi/ (eh-tuh-MAH-luh-jee)
Origin: The word "etymology" comes from the Greek words "etymon" (ἔτυμον), meaning "true sense" or "true meaning," and "logos" (λόγος), meaning "study" or "science."
Meaning: Etymology refers to the study of the origins and historical development of words, including their meanings, usage, and relationships to other words within a language.
Example Usage: "The etymology of the word 'computer' reveals its connection to the Latin word 'computare,' meaning 'to calculate.'"
Example SAT Problem:
Choose the word that best fits the context:
"The etymologist spent years researching the origins of the word 'dragon,' which is derived from the Greek word 'drakon.'"
A) Because of its history B) In order to understand its meaning C) To analyze its structure D) To translate it into another language
Answer: B) In order to understand its meaning
This problem requires the test-taker to demonstrate an understanding of the word "etymology" and its meaning, as well as the ability to apply that knowledge in a context.
The word 'euphoric' is an excellent choice for the SAT exam. Here's a detailed breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /juːˈfɔrɪk/ (yoo-FOR-ik)
Origin: The word 'euphoric' comes from the Greek word 'εὐφορία' (euphoría), which means 'a state of being above the normal or average condition, especially in terms of feeling or emotion'. This Greek term is derived from 'εὐφορός' (euphoros), meaning 'blessed, prosperous', and 'φορός' (phoros), meaning 'bearing, carrying'.
Meaning: 'Euphoric' is an adjective that describes a feeling of intense happiness, excitement, or elation. It can refer to a state of being completely satisfied, joyful, or ecstatic.
Example Usage: "The crowd erupted in euphoric cheers as their team won the championship game."
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below and answer the question.
"The concert was a blast. The music was energetic and infectious, and the crowd was completely euphoric. Everyone was dancing and singing along to the catchy tunes."
The passage is an example of a literary device called a ___(A) figurative language (B) hyperbole (C) euphoria (D) idiom.
Correct answer: (A) figurative language
Rationale: The passage uses the word 'euphoric' to describe the crowd's emotional state, which is an example of figurative language. The word is used to create a vivid image of the scene and to convey the intensity of the crowd's emotions.
In the SAT exam, you may be asked to identify the meaning of a word in a passage or to use a word in a sentence to demonstrate its usage. 'Euphoric' is a word that can be used in various contexts, and being familiar with its meaning and usage can help you to improve your SAT scores.
The word "evanescent" is a great choice for SAT preparation. Let's break down its details:
Phonetic Symbol: /ˌɛvəˈnɛsnt/ (eh-vuh-NESS-nt)
Origin: The word "evanescent" comes from the Latin words "evanescere," which means "to vanish" or "to disappear." This Latin term is derived from "e-" (meaning "out of" or "away from") and "vanescere" (meaning "to disappear" or "to pass out of sight").
Meaning: "Evanescent" refers to something that is fleeting or transitory, lasting for a very short time. It can describe a feeling, a situation, or an event that is temporary and soon disappears.
Example Usage: "The firefly's glow was evanescent, lasting only for a few seconds before it disappeared in the darkness."
Example SAT Problem:
Here's an example SAT sentence completion question that involves the word "evanescent":
"The beauty of the sunset was evanescent because it lasted only for a few minutes before it disappeared behind the horizon."
In this question, the correct answer is "evanescent" because it describes the fleeting nature of the sunset's beauty.
Tips for SAT Preparation:
By mastering this word, you'll be better equipped to tackle more challenging SAT questions and demonstrate your command of formal language.
The word "evince" is a great choice for SAT preparation. Here's a breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ˈɛvɪns/ (EV-ince)
Origin: The word "evince" comes from the Old French word "evincre," which is derived from the Latin word "evinxisse," meaning "to draw out." This Latin word is a combination of "e-" (a prefix indicating "out" or "forth") and "vinco," meaning "to conquer" or "to overpower."
Meaning: The word "evince" means to show or demonstrate something clearly, often in a way that is convincing or unambiguous. It can also mean to prove or evidence something.
Example Usage:
SAT Example Problem:
Read the passage below and choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The company's annual report, released last month, evinced a significant increase in profits. While some analysts have expressed concerns about the company's future prospects, the report's data suggests otherwise."
The passage suggests that the company's annual report:
A) Revealed a decrease in profits B) Evincing a significant increase in profits C) Failed to provide any relevant data D) Showed a slight decrease in profits
Correct answer: B) Evincing a significant increase in profits
In this example, the word "evinced" is used to show that the company's annual report clearly demonstrated or showed an increase in profits. The correct answer, B, is the one that accurately reflects the meaning of the word "evinced" in the context of the passage.
The word 'exacerbate' is a great choice for SAT preparation, as it often appears in challenging reading passages. Here's a detailed breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: ex-as-ER-bate
Origin: The word 'exacerbate' comes from the Latin 'exacerbare,' which means 'to make worse' or 'to sharpen.' This Latin term is a combination of 'ex,' meaning 'out of' or 'from,' 'acer,' meaning 'keen' or 'sharp,' and the suffix '-bare,' which forms a verb.
Meaning: To make a problem, situation, or emotion worse; to intensify or aggravate something.
Example Usage: "The doctor's diagnosis only exacerbated her anxiety, as she had been fearing the worst."
Example SAT Problem: Here's a possible SAT reading passage involving the word 'exacerbate':
Passage: The new policy has been met with widespread criticism from environmental groups, who claim that it will exacerbate the already severe air pollution in the city. Despite the outcry, the government has refused to reconsider the policy.
Question: The word "exacerbate" in the passage most nearly means:
A) to reduce B) to ignore C) to make worse D) to delay
Answer: C) to make worse. This question requires the student to understand the meaning of 'exacerbate' and apply it to the context of the passage.
As you can see, understanding the word 'exacerbate' and its nuances can help you tackle challenging SAT reading passages and improve your scores. Keep practicing, and you'll become more confident in your English skills!
The word "exalt" is a great choice for the SAT exam. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ɛɡˈzɔːlt/ (eg-ZAHLT)
Origin: The word "exalt" comes from the Latin word "exaltare," which means "to lift up" or "to elevate." This Latin word is derived from "ex" (meaning "out of" or "up from") and "altare" (meaning "altar").
Meaning: The word "exalt" means to raise someone or something to a higher position or status, often in a grand or impressive way. It can also mean to praise or glorify someone or something.
Example Usage: "The fans in the stadium exalted their team's winning goal, cheering loudly and waving their flags." or "The poet's words exalted the beauty of nature, inspiring a sense of awe in the reader."
Example SAT Problem:
"Which of the following words best completes the sentence?
"After years of hard work, the scientist's discovery was finally recognized, and she was _ by her peers as one of the leading experts in her field."
A) esteemed B) exalted C) esteemed D) elevated
Answer: B) exalted
In this example, the correct answer is "exalted" because it means to raise someone to a higher position or status, which fits the context of the sentence. The other options, while similar in meaning, do not quite fit the nuance of the sentence.
I hope this helps you prepare for your SAT exam!
The word "exasperate" is an excellent choice for SAT preparation. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Phonetic Symbol: /ɛksəˈseɪreɪt/ (eks-uh-SAY-reet)
Origin: The word "exasperate" comes from the Latin word "exasperare," which means "to provoke to anger or exasperation." This Latin word is a combination of "ex" (meaning "out" or "away") and "asperare" (meaning "to make rough" or "to provoke").
Meaning: The word "exasperate" means to make someone extremely angry or frustrated, often to the point of exasperation. It can also mean to cause someone to give up or lose patience.
Example Usage: "The long line at the store was exasperating, and Sarah finally lost her cool when she was told it would be another 20 minutes before she could pay."
Example SAT Problem: Here's a possible SAT question:
"Choose the word that best fits the meaning of the phrase:
The professor's constant interruptions ______ the student's ability to present her research.
A) irritated B) exasperated C) fascinated D) confused
Correct answer: B) exasperated
This question requires the student to understand the meaning of the word "exasperate" and choose the correct answer based on the context. The correct answer, "exasperated," implies that the student's presentation was disrupted to the point of extreme frustration.
When taking the SAT, students will be asked to read a passage and then answer questions about the meaning of words and phrases. Understanding the nuances of words like "exasperate" will help them to answer these questions correctly and improve their overall score.
The word "excavate" is a very useful one for the SAT exam. Let's break it down:
Phonetic Symbol: /ɛksˈkævɪteɪt/
Origin: The word "excavate" comes from the Latin words "ex" (meaning "out" or "from") and "cavare" (meaning "to dig"). This Latin root has been used to form many English words related to digging or uncovering.
Meaning: The word "excavate" means to dig or remove soil, rock, or other materials to uncover or expose something, such as an artifact, a fossil, or a buried structure.
Example Usage: "The archaeologists carefully excavated the ancient city, uncovering artifacts and relics that had been buried for centuries."
Example SAT Problem: Here's a sample question that might involve the word "excavate":
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
Passage: "The new museum exhibit features a collection of artifacts discovered during a recent archaeological excavation in Egypt. The team of archaeologists spent several weeks digging through the sand and uncovering the ancient relics, which date back to the time of the pharaohs."
Question: The word "excavation" in this passage most nearly means: A) the act of preserving ancient artifacts B) the process of digging through soil to uncover buried relics C) the study of ancient civilizations D) the construction of a new museum building
Correct answer: B) the process of digging through soil to uncover buried relics. This question requires the test-taker to understand the meaning of the word "excavation" and its relation to the context of the passage.
Tips for SAT prep: