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A curated collection of vocabulary notes to help you ace the verbal section. Master these words and boost your score.
I'd be happy to help you with the word "predilection".
Phonetic Symbol: /prɪˈdɪlɪkʃən/ (pri-dil-ih-kshun)
Origin: The word "predilection" comes from the Latin word "prediligere," which is a combination of "prae-" (meaning "before" or "in preference to") and "diligere" (meaning "to love" or "to cherish").
Meaning: A predilection is a strong liking or preference for something, often in a way that is considered habitual or instinctual. It can also refer to a bias or tendency towards something.
Example Usage: "She has a predilection for trying new restaurants and always recommends them to her friends."
SAT Problem Example: Here's an example of a SAT sentence completion question that involves the word "predilection":
"Despite her strong predilection for science, she surprised everyone by choosing to major in art."
In this example, the correct answer would be to fill in the blank with "for" or "in," as the sentence describes her preference or bias towards something.
Tips for the SAT: When encountering a word like "predilection" on the SAT, try to break it down into its Latin roots to understand its meaning. Also, pay attention to the context of the sentence and use process of elimination to choose the correct answer.
The word "predilection" is a noun that refers to a preference or liking for something; a strong inclination or tendency towards a particular thing or activity.
The word "predilection" comes from the Latin words "pre-" (meaning "before" or "in front of") and "dilectio" (meaning "love" or "affection"), and ultimately from the verb "diligere" (meaning "to love" or "to take pleasure in").
In Latin, the term "predilectio" was used to describe a prior or pre-existing love or affection for something. The word was later adopted into English in the 17th century, where it has been used to describe a strong preference or liking for something.
For example:
In psychology, a predilection can refer to a personality trait or a learned behavior that influences an individual's preferences or choices.
The phonetic symbol for the word "predilection" is:
/ˌprɛdɪˈlɛkʃən/
Here's a breakdown of the phonetic transcription:
In the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), the phonetic transcription /ˌprɛdɪˈlɛkʃən/ indicates that the word "predilection" is pronounced as:
pre-di-LEC-tion
The word 'preponderance' is a great choice for the SAT exam. Let's break it down:
Phonetic Symbol: /prɪˈpɒndərəns/
Origin: The word 'preponderance' comes from the Latin words 'praeponderare,' which means 'to weigh beforehand.' This Latin term is a combination of 'praepondere,' meaning 'to weigh beforehand,' and the suffix '-ance,' indicating a state or condition.
Meaning: The word 'preponderance' refers to a greater weight or influence of something over others, often in a situation where there is a balance between different factors. It can also imply a significant or decisive majority.
Example Usage:
Example SAT Problem:
Here's an example of how 'preponderance' might be used in a SAT reading comprehension question:
Question: In the passage, the author argues that the "preponderance of historical evidence" supports the theory that the ancient civilization was wiped out by a tsunami. What do the author's words suggest about the strength of the evidence?
A) The evidence is weak and inconclusive. B) The evidence is strong and decisive. C) The evidence is neutral and doesn't support either theory. D) The evidence is based on incomplete data.
Answer: B) The evidence is strong and decisive.
This question requires the student to understand the meaning of 'preponderance' and apply it to the context of the passage. The correct answer, B) The evidence is strong and decisive, reflects the idea that 'preponderance' implies a significant or decisive majority, in this case, the strength of the evidence supporting the theory.
The word "prepossessing" is a great choice for the SAT exam. Here's a breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /prɪˈpɒsɪsɪŋ/ (pri-poss-ess-ing)
Origin: The word "prepossessing" comes from the Old French word "preposséder," which means "to possess beforehand" or "to occupy beforehand." This Old French word is derived from the Latin words "prae" and "possidere," where "prae" means "before" and "possidere" means "to possess."
Meaning: A "prepossessing" person or thing is one that is impressive or attractive at first glance. It can refer to someone's appearance, personality, or charm that makes a strong impression on others.
Example Usage: "The prepossessing smile of the model on the magazine cover caught my attention, and I had to look at it again."
SAT Example Problem:
Which of the following words best completes the sentence?
"The new art gallery's interior design was so __ that it immediately drew visitors from the street."
A) unprepossessing B) prepossessing C) unattractive D) ordinary
Answer: B) prepossessing
In this example, the correct answer is "prepossessing" because it means impressive or attractive at first glance, which fits the context of the sentence. The sentence is describing an art gallery's interior design that immediately draws visitors, implying that it is visually appealing or impressive.
As you can see, understanding the meaning and usage of "prepossessing" is essential for answering this type of SAT question correctly.
The word "presage" is a fascinating one. Let's dive into its details.
Phonetic Symbol: /prɪˈseɪdʒ/ (pri-SAYJ)
Origin: The word "presage" comes from the Old French word "presaigier," which is derived from the verb "presager," meaning "to foretell" or "to predict." This Old French term is itself derived from the Latin word "praesagire," meaning "to foretell" or "to predict." The Latin word is a combination of "praesag-" (meaning "before" or "previous") and the verb "agere," meaning "to do" or "to act."
Meaning: The word "presage" means a sign or indication that something will happen in the future. It can also refer to a feeling or intuition that something is about to occur.
Example Usage: "The dark clouds gathering in the sky presaged a storm that would bring heavy rainfall and strong winds."
In this example, the word "presaged" indicates that the gathering clouds are a sign of an impending storm.
Example SAT Problem: Here's a sample question that may involve the word "presage" on the SAT:
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The ancient prophecy had been passed down for generations, foretelling the arrival of a great leader who would bring peace and prosperity to the land. As the young stranger approached the village, the villagers noticed a strange glow emanating from his eyes, which they took to be a sign from the gods. This phenomenon, they believed, was a presage of the great leader's arrival."
What does the word "presage" mean in this context?
A) A prediction made by a prophet B) A sign or indication of something about to happen C) A feeling or intuition that something is about to occur D) A message from the gods
Correct answer: B) A sign or indication of something about to happen.
In this example, the word "presage" refers to the strange glow in the young stranger's eyes, which is seen as a sign of the great leader's arrival.
I hope this helps you understand the word "presage" better and feel more confident in using it in your SAT exam!
The word 'prescient' is a great choice for your SAT preparation. Here's a detailed analysis of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /prɪˈsɪʃnt/ (pri-SINNT)
Origin: The word 'prescient' comes from the Latin word 'praescire,' which is a combination of 'pra' (meaning 'before') and 'scire' (meaning 'to know'). This Latin word is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root '*skei-' (meaning 'to know' or 'to see').
Meaning: The word 'prescient' means having a keen understanding and insight that allows one to predict or anticipate future events or situations. It describes someone or something that is perceptive or foresighted.
Example Usage: "The economist was known for her prescient analysis of the market trends, which allowed her to make accurate predictions and warnings before the economic downturn."
Example SAT Problem: Here's an example SAT sentence completion problem that involves the word 'prescient':
"The politician's ___ warnings about the impending disaster were largely ignored by the public, which ultimately contributed to the devastating consequences."
A. prescient B. poignant C. precarious D. perceptive
Correct Answer: A. prescient
Analysis: This question requires the test-taker to understand the meaning of the word 'prescient' and its usage in a sentence. The correct answer, 'prescient,' indicates that the politician's warnings were insightful and predictive, allowing them to anticipate the disaster. The other options, 'poignant' (meaning evocative or touching), 'precarious' (meaning uncertain or unstable), and 'perceptive' (meaning able to notice or understand things), do not accurately describe the politician's warnings in this context.
In summary, the word 'prescient' is an excellent choice for your SAT preparation, and understanding its meaning, origin, and usage will help you tackle similar questions with confidence.
The word "prescribe" is a fascinating one, and I'm happy to help you understand it better. Here are the details you requested:
Phonetic Symbol: /prɪˈskraɪb/
Origin: The word "prescribe" comes from the Old French word "prescrire," which is derived from the Latin word "praescrībere." This Latin word is a combination of "praecipere," meaning "to advise" or "to ordain," and the suffix "-scribere," meaning "to write."
Meaning: The primary meaning of "prescribe" is to order or direct a course of action, especially in a medical or legal context. It can also mean to recommend or suggest something, such as a treatment or a course of study.
Example Usage: Here are a few examples of how to use the word "prescribe" in a sentence:
Example SAT Problem: Here's an example of how the word "prescribe" might be used in a SAT sentence completion question:
"The doctor ____ a course of physical therapy to help her patient recover from the injury."
A) prescribed B) suggested C) recommended D) ordered
The correct answer is A) prescribed, as it is the most appropriate word to use in this context.
I hope this helps you understand the word "prescribe" better! Do you have any other questions about it?
The word "presumptuous" is an excellent one to learn for the SAT English exam. Here's a detailed breakdown:
Phonetic Symbol: /prɪˈzʌmpʃuəs/ (pri-SUMP-shoo-uhs)
Origin: The word "presumptuous" comes from the Latin words "praesumere," meaning "to take before" or "to assume beforehand," and the suffix "-tuous," which forms an adjective.
Meaning: Presumptuous refers to behavior or actions that are considered to be overstepping or arrogant, often due to assuming something without proper justification or authorization. It can also imply a sense of audacity or uninvited boldness.
Example Usage:
Example SAT Problem: Here's a sample SAT question involving the word "presumptuous":
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The new employee, feeling confident about her skills, began to make decisions without consulting her supervisor. Her colleagues were surprised by her presumptuous behavior, but the supervisor eventually approved of her actions."
Which of the following words best describes the new employee's behavior?
A) Timid B) Confident C) Presumptuous D) Indecisive
The correct answer is C) Presumptuous. The new employee's behavior is described as presumptuous because she took actions without consulting her supervisor, which was considered overstepping or arrogant.
Remember, the SAT exam often tests your ability to understand and apply vocabulary in context. Be sure to practice using words like "presumptuous" in your own writing and to recognize them in reading passages. Good luck with your exam!
I'd be happy to help you with the word "pretense."
Phonetic Symbol: /ˈprɛtɛns/ (PRET-ens)
Origin: The word "pretense" comes from the Old French word "pretence," which is derived from the Latin word "praetentio." This Latin term is a combination of "praetere" (to go before) and "tentio" (stretching or tension). In Latin, the word meant "a stretching before" or "a pretension."
Meaning: The word "pretense" refers to a false or pretended attitude, claim, or behavior, often to deceive or manipulate others. It can also mean a sense of pride or dignity that is artificial or unnatural.
Example Usage: "Her pretense of being a nature lover was obvious when she got lost in the woods and panicked."
Example SAT Problem:
Read the sentence carefully.
"The manager's pretense of being concerned about the employee's well-being was transparent to everyone in the office."
Which of the following inferences can be drawn from the sentence?
A) The manager was genuinely concerned about the employee's well-being. B) The manager was not concerned about the employee's well-being. C) The manager's concern for the employee's well-being was a surprise to everyone in the office. D) The manager's concern for the employee's well-being was a common occurrence in the office.
Correct answer: B) The manager was not concerned about the employee's well-being.
In this example, the word "pretense" is used to describe the manager's artificial or pretended concern for the employee's well-being. The correct answer, B, is the one that accurately reflects the meaning of the word "pretense."
The word 'primeval' is an excellent choice for SAT preparation. Let's break it down into its essential components.
Phonetic Symbol: /praɪmˈiːvəl/ (pry-MAH-vuhl)
Origin: The word 'primeval' comes from the Latin words 'primus' (meaning 'first' or 'chief') and 'valescere' (meaning 'to grow' or 'to increase'). The Latin term 'primaevalis' was later borrowed into Middle English as 'primeval'.
Meaning: Primeval refers to something that existed from the very beginning of time or is extremely ancient. It can also describe something that is in its earliest or most primitive form.
Example Usage: Here's a sentence using 'primeval' in context: "The primeval forests of the Amazon rainforest have been untouched for centuries, preserving the delicate ecosystem and its unique biodiversity."
Example SAT Problem: Here's a sample SAT question that might involve the word 'primeval':
Read the passage below and choose the best answer to the question.
"The fossil record suggests that life on Earth emerged about 3.5 billion years ago. The earliest life forms were likely single-celled organisms that lived in a primeval ocean. These ancient organisms eventually evolved into complex multicellular life forms, which dominated the Earth's surface for millions of years."
The question: What does the word "primeval" most likely mean in the context of the passage?
A) Extremely complex B) Extremely ancient C) Completely barren D) Completely barren
Answer: B) Extremely ancient
This question requires the test-taker to understand the meaning of 'primeval' and apply it to the context of the passage. It's essential to recognize that 'primeval' refers to something that existed from the very beginning of time or is extremely ancient, which is the correct answer in this case.
The word "privation" is an excellent choice. Let's break it down for you:
Phonetic Symbol: /praɪˈveɪʃən/ (pri-vay-shun)
Origin: The word "privation" comes from the Latin term "privatio," which means "the act of depriving" or "the state of being deprived." It is derived from the verb "privare," which means "to deprive."
Meaning: The word "privation" refers to the state of lacking something essential or necessary, often due to a deprivation or denial. It can also refer to a state of need or scarcity.
Example Usage: "The prolonged drought led to severe privation among the communities, who struggled to find food and water."
Example SAT Problem: Here's a sample SAT question that involves the word "privation":
Question: "The government's decision to cut funding for social services has led to widespread privation among the most vulnerable members of society."
A) The government's decision has resulted in a significant increase in social services. B) The government's decision has led to a shortage of essential goods and services. C) The government's decision has resulted in a significant decrease in crime rates. D) The government's decision has no impact on the social well-being of citizens.
Correct Answer: B) The government's decision has led to a shortage of essential goods and services.
In this question, the word "privation" is used to describe the state of scarcity or lack of essential goods and services among vulnerable members of society. To answer this question correctly, the test-taker needs to understand the meaning of the word "privation" and its context in the sentence.
The word "probity" is a great choice for your SAT exam preparation. Here's a breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /prɒbɪti/ (prob-i-tee)
Origin: The word "probity" comes from the Latin word "probitas," which means "uprightness" or "integrity." It is derived from the verb "probare," which means "to prove" or "to approve."
Meaning: Probity refers to the quality of being honest, moral, and of high integrity. It involves being truthful, trustworthy, and having a strong sense of ethics.
Example Usage: "The politician's reputation was tarnished by allegations of corruption, which undermined her claim to probity and integrity."
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below and choose the word that best fits the blank space:
"The company's commitment to __ (probity) was evident in its transparent financial statements and honest dealings with customers."
A) integrity B) morality C) ethics D) probity
Answer: D) probity
In this example, the correct answer is "probity" because it specifically refers to the quality of being honest and having a strong sense of ethics. The other options, while related to ethics and morality, are not as specific as "probity" in this context.
In SAT exam, you might encounter a question like this, where you need to choose the word that best fits the blank space, based on the context and the meaning of the word.
The word 'proclivity' is an excellent choice for SAT preparation. Here's the breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /proʊˈklɪvɪti/
Origin: The word 'proclivity' comes from the Latin word 'proclivitas', which means 'slant' or 'slope'. It is derived from 'proclivis', meaning 'inclined' or 'leaning to one side'.
Meaning: A proclivity refers to a natural tendency or inclination to do something. It can also imply a strong liking or predisposition towards something.
Example Usage: "His proclivity for taking risks led him to become a successful entrepreneur." In this sentence, the word 'proclivity' highlights the person's natural tendency or inclination to take risks.
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below and answer the question:
"The research suggests that there is a growing proclivity towards sustainable living among young people. This shift in behavior is attributed to increased awareness about the environmental impacts of human activity."
The question: "The word 'proclivity' in the passage most nearly means ______."
A) A strong dislike for something B) A tendency to behave in a certain way C) A complete lack of interest in something D) A sudden change in behavior
Correct answer: B) A tendency to behave in a certain way.
In this example, the word 'proclivity' is used to describe a natural tendency or inclination towards sustainable living among young people. The correct answer, B) A tendency to behave in a certain way, accurately captures the meaning of the word in this context.
The word "procure" is a very useful term to know, especially for SAT prep. Here's the breakdown:
Phonetic Symbol: /prəˈkʊr/ (pruh-KUR)
Origin: The word "procure" comes from the Latin "procurare," which means "to get or obtain." This Latin term is also related to the word "procurator," a person who acts on behalf of someone else.
Meaning: To procure means to obtain or get something, often by taking action or making arrangements. It can also imply that something is acquired in a difficult or complicated way.
Example Usage: "The company had to procure special equipment to complete the project on time."
Example SAT Problem: Here's a sample SAT problem that involves the word "procure":
"Choose the best answer to the following sentence:
The new policy will ____ a significant reduction in emissions over the next five years.
A) Procure B) Provide C) Produce D) Protect"
Answer: B) Provide. The correct answer is "provide" because it means to offer or supply something, whereas "procure" would imply obtaining it through effort or arrangement.
In another example, here's how "procure" could be used in a sentence:
"The company's procurement team will work with suppliers to procure the necessary materials for the new factory."
In this example, "procure" is used to mean obtaining or getting something through a process of acquiring or purchasing.
Remember, on the SAT, context is key, and understanding the nuances of words like "procure" can make a big difference in your score.
The word "profane" is an excellent choice for the SAT exam. Here's a breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ˈproʊfeɪn/ (PROH-fayn)
Origin: The word "profane" comes from the Latin word "profanus," which is a combination of "pro" (meaning "before" or "beyond") and "fanum" (meaning "temple" or "shrine"). In Latin, "profanus" referred to something that was before or beyond the protection of a temple or shrine, implying that it was not sacred or holy.
Meaning: In modern English, "profane" means to treat something (such as a place, a person, or an idea) with disrespect or irreverence; to make something seem trivial or secular. It can also refer to something that is considered impure or immoral.
Example Usage: "The graffiti on the church wall was a profane act that offended many members of the community."
Example SAT Problem:
This is a reading comprehension passage with a question related to the word "profane":
Passage:
"The artist's depiction of the deity was considered profane by many in the community. However, the artist argued that her intention was to explore the complexities of human nature, rather than to offend anyone's religious sensibilities."
Question:
The word "profane" in the passage most nearly means:
A) sacred B) irreverent C) immoral D) pure
Answer: B) irreverent
In this question, the correct answer is "irreverent" because it accurately describes the sense of disrespect or irreverence that the word "profane" conveys in the passage.
The word "profligate" is a great choice for the SAT exam. Let's break down the information you need to know:
Phonetic Symbol: /ˌprəˈflɪɡɪt/ (PROH-flig-it)
Origin: The word "profligate" comes from the Latin word "profligatus," which is the past participle of "profligare," meaning "to overthrow" or "to throw down." The Latin word is derived from "pro" (meaning "before" or "against") and "fligare" (meaning "to strike" or "to overthrow").
Meaning: A profligate person is someone who is wastefully extravagant or reckless in their spending or behavior. They often engage in irresponsible or immoral activities without regard for consequences.
Example Usage: "The profligate billionaire spent millions on his lavish lifestyle, leaving his business on the brink of bankruptcy."
Example SAT Problem: Here's an example of how "profligate" might appear on the SAT:
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
The city's profligate spending on unnecessary infrastructure projects has led to a significant increase in taxes for residents.
The author of the passage implies that the city's
A) prudent spending has helped to reduce taxes B) wasteful spending has led to increased taxes C) budget deficit has been caused by a decrease in revenue D) lack of investment in infrastructure has led to decreased city services
Correct answer: B) wasteful spending has led to increased taxes
In this example, the word "profligate" is used to describe the city's spending habits, implying that they are wasteful and excessive. The correct answer, B) wasteful spending has led to increased taxes, demonstrates an understanding of the word's meaning and its application in the passage.
The word "profuse" is a great choice for the SAT exam. Here's a detailed breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ˈproʊfuːs/ (PROH-fooz)
Origin: The word "profuse" comes from the Latin word "profusus," which means "poured out" or "scattered around." This Latin word is a past participle of the verb "profundere," which means "to pour out" or "to scatter."
Meaning: The word "profuse" typically means abundant, excessive, or lavish. It can describe something that is overflowing or scattered in a generous manner.
Example Usage: Here are a few examples:
Example SAT Problem: Here's a possible SAT question:
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The city's parks are designed to be self-sustaining ecosystems, with profuse greenery and native plant species. This approach has resulted in a significant decrease in maintenance costs and an increase in biodiversity."
The author's use of the word "profuse" in the passage suggests that the city's parks are characterized by a large amount of _.
A) weeds B) flowers C) trees D) water
Correct answer: B) flowers
In this question, the correct answer is B) flowers, as the word "profuse" suggests an abundance of something, in this case, greenery or flowers. The other options are incorrect because they don't accurately convey the meaning of the word "profuse" in the context of the passage.
I hope this helps you prepare for your SAT exam!
The word "promulgate" is a fascinating one. Let's break it down together:
Phonetic Symbol: /prəmˈʌlgɪt/ (pro-mul-gayt)
Origin: The word "promulgate" comes from the Latin word "promulgare," which is a combination of "pro" (meaning "before" or "forth") and "mulgere" (meaning "to milk"). However, the Latin root is more accurately related to "mulgere" meaning "to make public" or "to declare." The word entered the English language in the 15th century.
Meaning: The word "promulgate" means to make known or declare publicly, often an official announcement or a new law. It can also imply to spread or propagate an idea, doctrine, or information.
Example Usage: "The government is expected to promulgate new regulations on environmental protection next month."
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below and choose the word that best fits the blank space.
"The new law will _____ the rights of women to equal pay and benefits in the workplace."
A) abolish B) promulgate C) circumvent D) obfuscate
Answer: B) promulgate
Explanation: The correct answer is "promulgate" because the law is being announced or made public, giving women equal rights.
When answering this question, remember to choose the word that means to declare or make known publicly, which is the primary definition of "promulgate."