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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 "revel" is a great choice. Let's break it down:
Phonetic Symbol: /ˈrɛvəl/ (REH-vuhl)
Origin: The word "revel" comes from the Old French word "reveler," which is derived from the Latin word "revellere," meaning "to unroll" or "to unfold." Over time, the meaning shifted to "to indulge in revelry" or "to engage in festive or riotous behavior."
Meaning: The primary meaning of "revel" is to engage in or participate in a joyous or festive occasion, often involving excessive drinking, singing, or other forms of merriment. It can also mean to indulge in or enjoy something deeply.
Example Usage: "The students reveled in the school's decision to cancel the final exam, and they spent the rest of the day playing pranks on their teachers." In this sentence, "revel" means to indulge in or enjoy something (the canceled exam) with great enthusiasm.
Example SAT Problem:
Read the sentence below and choose the best answer:
"The tourists __ in the music and dance of the local festival, which they had been waiting to experience for weeks."
A) indulged in B) reveled in C) participated in D) enjoyed
Correct answer: B) reveled in
In this sentence, "reveled in" is the correct choice because it means to indulge in or enjoy something with great enthusiasm, which fits the context of the sentence.
Remember, the SAT exam often tests your vocabulary skills, so it's essential to understand the nuances of words like "revel" and use them correctly in context.
The word "revere" is a fantastic choice to explore for your SAT preparation. Here's a detailed breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /rɪˈvɪər/ (ri-VEE-ər)
Origin: The word "revere" comes from the Latin word "reverere," which means "to show reverence or respect." This Latin word is a combination of "re-" (meaning "again" or "anew") and "verere" (meaning "to fear" or "to revere").
Meaning: To revere means to feel a deep respect, admiration, or awe for someone or something. It can also mean to treat someone or something with great respect or dignity.
Example Usage: "The crowd revere the legendary musician for his incredible talent and contributions to the music industry." or "The museum-goers revere the ancient artifacts on display, recognizing their historical significance."
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below and answer the question:
"The famous artist's fans revere her for her innovative style and dedication to her craft. This reverence has inspired countless young artists to pursue their own careers in the arts."
Question: What does the word "revere" mean in the context of the passage?
A) To criticize or mock B) To admire and respect greatly C) To ignore or dismiss D) To disagree with or oppose
Correct answer: B) To admire and respect greatly
In this example, the word "revere" is used to describe the fans' deep respect and admiration for the artist. This is a great opportunity to demonstrate your understanding of the word's meaning and usage in a SAT-style question.
The word "revoke" is a great choice for SAT preparation. Here's a detailed breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /riːˈvoʊk/ (REE-vohk)
Origin: The word "revoke" comes from the Latin word "re-vocare," which means "to call back" or "to summon back." This Latin word is a combination of "re-" (meaning "again" or "anew") and "vocare" (meaning "to call" or "to summon").
Meaning: To revoke means to officially cancel or withdraw something, such as a decision, a law, a contract, or a privilege. It can also mean to take back or withdraw something that has been offered or given.
Example Usage: "The company decided to revoke the employee's contract due to poor performance." or "The government revoked the law that prohibited the sale of marijuana."
SAT Example Problem:
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The company's new policy was to provide a 10% discount to all customers who paid their bills on time. However, after a few months, the company decided to revoke this policy and instead charge a late fee to customers who did not pay their bills on time."
The question: What does "revoke" mean in the context of the passage?
A) To provide something new B) To cancel or withdraw something C) To take back something that has been given D) To replace something with something else
Answer: B) To cancel or withdraw something
In this example, the passage uses the word "revoke" to mean that the company is canceling or withdrawing the policy of providing a 10% discount to customers who pay their bills on time. This requires an understanding of the word's meaning and its proper usage in a sentence.
The word "rhapsodize" is a fantastic choice for SAT preparation. Here's a detailed breakdown of this word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ræpsˈɒdaɪz/
Origin: This word has its roots in Greek (ῥαψῳδία, rhapsōidia), derived from ῥάψω (rhápsō), meaning "to sew" and ᾰυδή (ōidē), meaning "song". The term "rhapsody" originally referred to a type of ancient Greek poem or song.
Meaning: To rhapsodize means to speak or write in a flamboyant, enthusiastic, or overly emotional manner, often about a subject that is not necessarily factual or based on evidence. It can also mean to express oneself in a long, rambling, and often pompous speech or writing style.
Example Usage: "The politician rhapsodized about the country's economic growth, but his critics pointed out that the numbers didn't quite add up."
Example SAT Problem: Let's say you come across a sentence like: "The professor's lengthy and emotional speech was a rhapsody of clichés and unsupported claims."
In this case, you would identify the word "rhapsody" (or in this case, "rhapsodize") and understand that it means speaking or writing in an overly emotional or flamboyant manner. You could then use this understanding to answer a question like:
"Which of the following best describes the tone of the professor's speech?"
A) Sarcastic B) Emotional C) Objective D) Detached
The correct answer would be B) Emotional, as the word "rhapsodize" suggests that the speech was overly emotional and enthusiastic.
I hope this helps you prepare for your SAT exam!
The word 'ribald' is an excellent choice for SAT preparation. Here's a breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ˈraɪbɔːld/
Origin: The word 'ribald' comes from the Old French word 'ribauld,' which is derived from the Latin word 'ripaldus' or 'ripaldus.' The Latin term is believed to be related to the word 'ripa,' meaning 'riverbank,' possibly due to the idea of a rowdy or licentious character being associated with a riverbank.
Meaning: 'Ribald' refers to something that is coarse, bawdy, or lewd, often in a humorous or playful way. It can also describe a person who is fond of coarse or indecent jokes, stories, or language.
Example Usage: "The ribald humor in the medieval tale made it a favorite among the villagers, who would gather to hear it around the campfire."
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The company's ribald holiday party, complete with a pinata filled with beer koozies and a playlist of off-color songs, was a hit with the employees. However, the CEO was not amused, and the party was shut down early."
Which of the following best describes the tone of the passage?
A) Serious and professional B) Humorous and lighthearted C) Angry and disapproving D) Confused and uncertain
Answer: B) Humorous and lighthearted. This question requires the test-taker to understand the meaning of 'ribald' and how it is used in context to create a particular tone.
In this example, the word 'ribald' helps to set the tone of the passage as humorous and lighthearted, while also providing insight into the company culture. The correct answer, B) Humorous and lighthearted, demonstrates an understanding of the word's meaning and its effect on the passage's tone.
The word you're referring to is "rife." Let's break down the information about this word.
Phonetic Symbol: The phonetic symbol for "rife" is /raɪf/ (RYF).
Origin: The word "rife" has its roots in Old English, derived from the word "rīfan," which means "to be full of" or "to abound in." Over time, the spelling evolved into "rife."
Meaning: The word "rife" is an adjective that means widespread, common, or abundant. It often implies a negative connotation, suggesting that something is prevalent or widespread in a way that is undesirable.
Example Usage:
Example SAT Problem:
"Choose the best answer.
The city's high crime rate is a major concern, with ___ robberies occurring every week.
A) scarce B) rife C) few D) numerous"
The correct answer is B) rife. The sentence implies that robberies are widespread and common, which is consistent with the meaning of the word "rife."
When answering this question, look for words that mean "widespread" or "common." Words like "rife," "scattered," and "occasional" might fit the context, but "rife" is the most suitable option in this case.
The word "ruminate" is a fascinating one. Here's a breakdown of its phonetic symbol, origin, meaning, example usage, and example SAT problem:
Phonetic Symbol: /roʊˈmɪneɪt/
Origin: The word "ruminate" comes from the Latin word "ruminare," which means "to chew again." This Latin term is also related to the word "rumen," which refers to the first chamber of a ruminant animal's stomach, where food is first digested.
Meaning: To ruminate means to think deeply and carefully about something, often in a slow and repetitive manner. It can also refer to the act of chewing cud, as in ruminant animals.
Example Usage: "After receiving the news, she spent hours ruminating on the implications, trying to make sense of it all."
Example SAT Problem:
Question: Which of the following most accurately describes the word "ruminate"? A) To quickly think about something B) To thoroughly consider and reflect on something C) To forget about something D) To discuss something with others
Correct answer: B) To thoroughly consider and reflect on something
Reasoning skill: This question requires the student to understand the meaning of the word "ruminate" and choose the correct answer based on that understanding. The student needs to be able to analyze the word's connotation and usage to arrive at the correct answer.
In the context of the SAT, "ruminate" is often used in passages or questions that require the student to demonstrate their understanding of vocabulary in context. The student needs to be able to recognize the word's meaning and usage, and then apply that understanding to the passage or question to arrive at the correct answer.
The word 'ruse' is a great choice for SAT preparation. Here's a detailed breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ruːs/ (ROOS)
Origin: The word 'ruse' comes from the Old French word 'ruse,' which is derived from the Latin word 'rusus,' meaning 'cunning' or 'crafty.' This Latin term is itself derived from the verb 'ruscare,' which means 'to be cunning.'
Meaning: A ruse is a clever trick or deception used to achieve a goal or gain an advantage. It can also refer to a clever or skillful plan or action.
Example Usage: "The general used a ruse to distract the enemy's attention while his troops launched a surprise attack." or "She used a ruse to convince her friend that she was going to the movies when, in fact, she was going to a concert."
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below and choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The clever thief used a ruse to escape from the police. He pretended to be a lost tourist and asked for directions, all the while keeping a safe distance from his pursuers. The police were convinced by his innocent act and let their guard down, allowing the thief to slip away unnoticed."
Which of the following best describes the thief's actions?
A) Deceptive B) Cunning C) Courageous D) Careless
Answer: B) Cunning. The word 'cunning' is a synonym for 'ruse,' and the passage describes the thief's clever plan to escape the police.
For SAT purposes, be prepared to identify the word 'ruse' in context, understand its meaning, and use it in your own writing to describe clever tricks or deceptions.
The word you're looking for is indeed "saccharine." Here's a detailed breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ˈsækəriːn/ (SAK-uh-reen)
Origin: The word "saccharine" comes from the Latin word "saccharum," meaning sugar. The term was first used in the 17th century to describe a substance that tastes like sugar.
Meaning: The word "saccharine" has multiple meanings, including:
Example Usage:
Example SAT Problem:
Here's an example of how the word "saccharine" might be used in an SAT reading comprehension passage:
"The novelist's latest work has been criticized for its saccharine portrayal of small-town life. While some readers appreciate the nostalgic tone, others find it overly sentimental and lacking in nuance."
In this example, the word "saccharine" is used to describe the overly sentimental and insincere tone of the novel. To answer a question about this passage, you might need to use the word "saccharine" in a sentence, or identify the author's tone as saccharine.
Tips for the SAT:
When encountering the word "saccharine" on the SAT, look for its connotations. If the word is used to describe something as overly sweet or insincere, it's likely to be used in a negative context. Make sure to read the passage carefully and understand the author's tone before answering questions about the text.
The word 'sacrosanct' is a fascinating one. Let's break it down:
Phonetic Symbol: /sækroʊˈsæŋkt/ (sak-roh-SANGK-t)
Origin: The word 'sacrosanct' comes from Latin. It is derived from 'sacer,' meaning sacred or holy, and 'sanctus,' meaning holy, consecrated, or revered. In Latin, the phrase 'sanctus et sacer' means 'most holy.'
Meaning: 'Sacrosanct' refers to something or someone that is considered sacred, holy, or inviolable. It implies that the subject is untouchable, unassailable, or beyond criticism.
Example Usage: "The sacrosanct rights of civilians in a war-torn country must be protected by the international community."
In this example, the word 'sacrosanct' emphasizes the importance and sacred nature of civilians' rights.
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The mayor of the city has proposed a new budget that includes significant cuts to the arts program. Critics argue that the budget is an attack on the city's cultural identity and that it is an attempt to dismantle a sacrosanct institution that has been a cornerstone of the community for decades. The mayor's office has defended the cuts, saying that they are necessary to balance the budget and ensure the city's financial stability."
Which of the following best describes the tone of the critics mentioned in the passage?
A) Supportive B) Critical C) Indifferent D) Ambivalent
Answer: B) Critical
In this example, the word 'sacrosanct' is used to emphasize the critics' strong opposition to the proposed budget cuts and their perception that the arts program is a sacred institution that should be protected.
I hope this helps you prepare for your SAT exam!
Excellent choice of word for the SAT exam! The word 'sagacity' is a wonderful example of a vocabulary term that can make a significant difference in your score.
Phonetic Symbol: /sæɡˈæsɪti/ (sag-AS-i-tee)
Origin: The word 'sagacity' has its roots in Latin, derived from the word 'sagacitas,' which means 'keenness of perception' or 'sound judgment.'
Meaning: Sagacity refers to the quality of having keen discernment, good judgment, and sound insight. It describes someone who is perceptive, wise, and able to make informed decisions.
Example Usage: Here's an example sentence:
"The detective's sagacity in piecing together the clues led to the successful solving of the complex case."
Example SAT Problem: Here's a sample question you might encounter on the SAT:
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The famous astronomer's sagacity in predicting the occurrence of a rare celestial event earned him international recognition. His ability to analyze vast amounts of data and draw logical conclusions was unparalleled in his field."
Which of the following words best describes the astronomer's quality of judgment in the passage?
A) Cautious B) Sagacious C) Perplexed D) Reckless
Answer: B) Sagacious
In this example, the correct answer is 'sagacious' because the passage describes the astronomer's ability to make informed decisions and draw logical conclusions, which is a key aspect of sagacity.
To improve your score on the SAT, make sure to practice using vocabulary words like 'sagacity' in context, and be prepared to recognize and apply them in reading comprehension passages and sentence completion questions.
The word "salient" is a great choice for SAT prep. Here's a breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ˈseɪliənt/ (SAY-lee-uhnt)
Origin: The word "salient" comes from the Latin word "salire," which means "to leap" or "to jump." It was first used in the 15th century in English.
Meaning: The word "salient" refers to something that stands out or is prominent. It can describe a feature, a characteristic, or a situation that is noticeable or striking.
Example Usage: "The city's skyline was dominated by a salient skyscraper that rose high above the rest."
In this example, the skyscraper is standing out or prominent in the city's skyline.
Example SAT Problem:
Here's an example question that might involve the word "salient":
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The city's historic district was known for its cobblestone streets and charming old buildings. However, one salient feature that set it apart from other neighborhoods was the abundance of street performers and vendors. The area was alive with music and laughter, and visitors from all over the world came to experience its unique energy."
The passage suggests that the historic district's street performers and vendors are a significant part of its identity. Which of the following inferences can be drawn from the passage?
A) The historic district is a quiet and peaceful area. B) The abundance of street performers and vendors is a major reason why tourists visit the area. C) The city's historic district is a typical example of urban renewal. D) The historic district's street performers and vendors are a minor aspect of its appeal.
The correct answer is B) The abundance of street performers and vendors is a major reason why tourists visit the area. This answer highlights the salient feature of the historic district mentioned in the passage.
When answering this type of question on the SAT, look for words like "salient" that describe prominent or striking features. The correct answer will often be the one that emphasizes or highlights the most notable aspect of the information presented.
The word 'salutation' is a great choice for SAT preparation. Here's the information you need:
Phonetic Symbol: /ˌsæljʊˈteɪʃən/ (sal-yoo-AY-shun)
Origin: The word 'salutation' comes from the Latin word 'salutare', which means 'to greet' or 'to welcome'. This Latin word is a combination of 'salus', meaning 'health', and the suffix '-tare', which is a verb form.
Meaning: A salutation is a greeting, often formal or polite, used to acknowledge someone's presence or arrival. It can also refer to the opening phrase or sentence of a letter, email, or other written communication.
Example Usage:
Example SAT Problem:
Here's a sample SAT question that involves the word 'salutation':
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
Passage: "The letter was formal and traditional, with a salutation that addressed the recipient as 'Dear Sir'. The body of the letter was well-written and informative, but the closing sentence seemed awkward and out of place."
Question: The author's use of the word "salutation" in the passage is most likely intended to convey that the letter's _____ is formal and traditional.
A) tone B) language C) salutation D) content
Answer: C) salutation
This question requires the test-taker to understand the meaning of 'salutation' and how it is used in the passage. The correct answer, C) salutation, is the one that best completes the sentence and maintains the meaning of the passage.
The word 'salve' is a great choice for SAT preparation. Let's break it down:
Phonetic Symbol: /sɑlv/ (SAHV)
Origin: The word 'salve' originates from the Latin word 'salvus,' which means 'safe' or 'sound.' This Latin root is related to the idea of healing or protection.
Meaning: In general, a salve is a soothing or healing ointment, typically used to treat or protect a wound. However, in literature and poetry, 'salve' can also mean a prayer or a wish for someone's well-being or safety.
Example Usage: Here's an example sentence:
"The doctor applied a warm salve to the burn to ease the pain and promote healing."
In a literary context:
"May this salve of words bring comfort to your sorrowful heart."
SAT Example Problem: Here's a sample question:
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The ancient Greeks used various salves to treat wounds and protect their skin from the harsh sun. In Homer's epic poem, the salve of words is used to heal the emotional wounds of the characters."
What does the word 'salve' primarily mean in this context?
A) A type of ointment B) A type of prayer or wish C) A type of medicine D) A type of protection
The correct answer is B) A type of prayer or wish.
In this passage, the word 'salve' refers to the soothing or healing power of words, rather than a physical ointment. This is an example of how the word can be used in a literary context to convey a sense of comfort and well-being.
The word "sanctimonious" is a great one to know for the SAT exam. Let's break it down:
Phonetic Symbol: /sæŋktɪˈmɒnɪəs/ (SANG-ki-MOH-nee-uhs)
Origin: This word comes from the Latin "sanctimonia," which means "holiness" or "sanctity." It is derived from "sanctus," meaning "holy" or "consecrated."
Meaning: A person who is sanctimonious is someone who pretends to be more virtuous or morally superior than others, often in a self-righteous or hypocritical manner.
Example Usage: "The politician's sanctimonious speech about social justice was seen as insincere by many of her critics."
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The mayor's campaign promises to reduce crime in the city were widely criticized as sanctimonious by his opponents. They argued that his proposals were unrealistic and lacked any real substance. However, the mayor's supporters saw his promises as a breath of fresh air, a genuine attempt to make their community safer."
Which of the following best describes the mayor's promises according to his opponents?
A) Honest and sincere B) Unrealistic and lacking substance C) Ambitious but unworkable D) Radical and innovative
Answer: B) Unrealistic and lacking substance
In this passage, the word "sanctimonious" is used to describe the mayor's campaign promises as pretentious or hypocritical, implying that he is trying to appear more virtuous than he actually is. The correct answer, B) Unrealistic and lacking substance, reflects this interpretation.
Remember that on the SAT, the word "sanctimonious" is often used in context to indicate that someone is being hypocritical or insincere. Be prepared to recognize and analyze similar situations in the passages you read.
The word 'sanguine' is a fascinating one, and it's a great choice for the SAT. Here's everything you need to know:
Phonetic Symbol: /ˈsæŋɡwaɪn/ (SANG-gwin)
Origin: The word 'sanguine' comes from the Latin word 'sanguis,' which means 'blood.' This Latin root is also the source of other English words like 'sanguinary' and 'sanguineous.'
Meaning: Sanguine refers to a person who is optimistic and confident, often to the point of being a bit too cheerful or arrogant. It can also describe someone who has a robust and healthy complexion, often with a reddish tint to their skin.
Example Usage: "John was known for his sanguine outlook on life, always expecting the best and never getting discouraged."
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below and choose the word that best fits in the blank space:
The company's sanguine attitude towards the new project was a major factor in its success, as it allowed them to ____ (A) doubt the outcome and instead focus on the opportunities it presented.
The correct answer is (C) 'overlook.' This is because the company's sanguine attitude allowed them to overlook any potential obstacles and focus on the positive aspects of the project.
In this example, the word 'sanguine' is used to describe the company's attitude as optimistic and confident, which helped them to overlook any doubts and focus on the opportunities presented by the project.
I hope this helps you prepare for your SAT exam! Do you have any other questions about the word 'sanguine' or would you like to learn about another word?
The word "satiate" is a fantastic choice for the SAT exam. Here's a breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /səˈtɪɪteɪt/ (suh-TEE-ayt)
Origin: The word "satiate" comes from the Latin word "satietas," which means "fullness" or "satisfaction." This Latin term is derived from "satis," meaning "enough" or "satisfied."
Meaning: The word "satiate" means to satisfy or fill someone's hunger, thirst, or desire completely. It can also refer to satisfying or fulfilling a need or a desire to a great extent.
Example Usage: "After eating a large meal, I felt satiated and didn't want to eat anything else for the rest of the day."
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The tourists were starving after a long day of hiking. They sat down to a feast of roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, and fresh vegetables. The aroma of the food wafted through the air, and their stomachs began to rumble. But after devouring the meal, they felt completely satisfied and ready to take on the rest of their journey."
Which of the following sentences best summarizes the tourists' experience?
A) They were still hungry after eating. B) They were too full to eat anymore. C) They felt satiated and ready to continue their journey. D) They were disappointed with the meal.
The correct answer is C) They felt satiated and ready to continue their journey.
In this example, the word "satiate" is used to describe the tourists' feeling of satisfaction and fullness after eating a large meal. This sentence is a great example of how the word "satiate" can be used in context.
Remember to pay attention to the nuances of word meanings and how they are used in context, as these are essential skills for the SAT exam. Good luck!
The word "scathing" is an excellent choice for SAT preparation. Here's a breakdown of the word:
Phonetic Symbol: /ˈskæθɪŋ/ (SKATH-ing)
Origin: The word "scathing" comes from the Old English word "scæþan," which means "to wound" or "to cut." This Old English word is also related to the Proto-Germanic word "skethiz," and ultimately to the Proto-Indo-European root "sketh-," which means "to wound" or "to cut."
Meaning: "Scathing" is an adjective that means extremely severe or harshly critical. It can describe something that is very severe or intense, such as a scathing criticism, a scathing review, or a scathing attack.
Example Usage: "The scathing review of the new restaurant was published in the local newspaper, warning potential customers to stay away."
Example SAT Problem:
Read the passage below, and then choose the best answer to the question that follows.
"The film's scathing portrayal of the corrupt government was a bold move by the director, who had previously been criticized for her liberal views. While some critics praised the film's raw honesty, others saw it as a thinly veiled attack on the administration. Nevertheless, the film's scathing critique of government corruption sparked a national conversation about accountability and transparency."
The passage suggests that the film's portrayal of the government is: A) Balanced and nuanced B) Scathing and critical C) Favorable and sympathetic D) Ignoring and dismissive
Answer: B) Scathing and critical
In this example, the word "scathing" is used to describe the film's portrayal of the government, highlighting its intense and severe criticism. This is a great example of how the word "scathing" can be used in context, and how it can be tested on the SAT exam.