AllGRE VOCABULARYWordsMeaningSentencesAggravateMake WorseAllowing your band to practice in our garage has greatly aggravated my headache.AmbivalentUncertainThe health care plan has been met with ambivalence from lawmakers who would like to pass the bill but find supporting it to be politically impossible.Annihilate Completely destroyThe Persian troops dared not attack the Greeks, but decoyed them into the interior, beyond the Tigris, and tried to annihilate them by treachery.AnointRefer to power or praiseAfter Principal Smith raised test scores over 60% at his school, it was only a matter of time before he was anointed superintendant by a fawning school board.Archaic characteristics of Early period, Ancient, old periodThe school's archaic computer system predated even floppy disksit stored records on tape drives!BelieContradictThe data belie the accepted theoryeither weve made a mistake, or we have an amazing new discovery on our hands!BlightRuin or cause to wither(decline), Disease that kills plant rapidly.Many potato farmers have fallen into poverty as a result of blight killing their crops.BluntTo dull, weakenBrookAllow, tolerate, AcceptThe dictator will brook no dissent.BufferBarrier, DefenceIt is probable that the isolation of Tibet was inspired originally by the Chinese, with the idea of creating a buffer state against European aggression from this direction.ClamorNoise, uproarAs soon as sense of scandal emerged, the press was clamoring for details.CloakTo cover or concealApples new products are often cloaked in mystery before they are released; before the launch of the iPad, even tech reviewers had little idea what the new device would be.Collusion/ColludeConspiracyAfter two competing software companies doubled their prices on the same day, leaving consumers no lower-priced alternative, the federal government investigated the companies for collusion.CompliantObeying, Submissive, ComplyThose who are not compliant with the regulations will be put on probation and possible expelled. Condoneoverlook, regarded as harmlessWhile underage drinking is illegal, at many universities, it is tacitly condoned by administrations that neglect to enforce anti-drinking policies.ConsolidateCombine, unite, SolidifyAs group leader, Mr. X will consolidate all of our research into a single report.ContemplativeThoughtful, Speculative, RuminativeThe music in this stage of its evolution is inclined to be contemplative and introspective.ConvergeMake towards a pointThe commerce carried on by the river itself is supplemented by the numerous railways, which skirt its banks and converge to its principal towns.Convoluted TwistedTo get from the hotel room to the pool requires following a convoluted path up two staircases and down two othersto get to someplace on the same floor we started on!Corroborate Support, Add evidence toCountenanceTolerance or approveI saw you cheating off my paper, and I cant countenance cheatingeither you turn yourself in or I will report you.CulminatationTermination or final stageA Ph.D. program generally culminates in a written dissertation and its defense to a committee.CynicalNegative, Bitterly PessimisticThe collapse of the former Yugoslavia has been aided and abetted by the various western powers using incredibly cynical maneuvers.DebunkExpose the falseness of myth.Galileo spent his last years under house arrest for debunking the widely held idea that the Sun revolved around the Earth.DeflectCause to curve, Turn asideThe purpose of a shield is to deflect arrows or bullets from an enemy.DichotomyDivision into parts or into two contradictory groupsThere is a dichotomy in the sciences between theoretical or pure sciences such as physics and chemistry, and the life sciences, which often deal more with classifying than with theorizing.DiscreteSeparate, Distinct, DetachedBe sure to use quotation mark and citation mark as appropriate in your paper in order to keep your ideas discrete from those of the experts you are quoting. DiscretionarySubject to someone's discretion or judgementBegin at your discretion means begin whenever you think is best. DisinterestedUnbiased, Not partial, We will get a disinterested observer to judge who can sing the higest noteDisparateDistint, DifferentHe chose the college for two disparate: the strength of the computer science program, and the execellence of the hip-hop alone squad.DovetailJoin or fit togetherWhen the neuroscientist married an exercise physiologist, neither thought theyd end up working together, but when Dr. Marion Ansel received a grant to study how exercise improves brain function and Dr. Jim Ansel was assigned to her team, the two found that their careers dovetailed nicely.EchelonA level, Rank, GradeObtaining a job on Wall Street doesnt guarantee access to the upper echelon o f executives,where multi-million dollar bonuses are the norm.EclecticSelecting the best of everything or from many diverse sourcesEclectic taste is helpful in being a DJcrowds love to hear the latest hip-hop mixed with 80s classics and other unexpected genres of music.EfficacyEffectivenessExtensive trials will be necessary to determine whether the drugs efficacy outweighs the side effects.Emulate Copy in an attempt to equal or be better thanEnigmaPuzzle, Mystery, The enormous rock sculptures in Stonehenge, Scotland, are truly an enigmawere they created as part of a religious observance, in deference to a great ruler, or for some other reason?Equivocal Use unclear langauage to decieve or avoid committing a positionNot wanting to lose supporters, the politician equivocated on the issue, tossing out buzzwords related to each side while also claiming more study was needed.ExacerbateMake WorseAllowing your band to practice in our garage has greatly exacerbated my headache.ExpedientSuitable, Proper, EffectiveWhen invited to a wedding you cannot attend, it is expedient to send a gift.FathomUnderstand deeplyI cannot even remotely fathom how you interpreted an invitation to sleep on my couch as permission to take my car on a six-hour joyride!Fledgling Inexperienced or newThe Society of Engineers is available for career day presentations in elementary schools, where we hope to encourage fledgling talents in the applied sciences.ForeshadowIndicate or suggest beforehandFleetingPassing quickly, TransitoryI had assumed our summer romance would be fleeting, so I was very surprised when you proposed marriage!GrandstandImpress or showyHegemonyDominations, or AuthorityThe discovery o f oil by a previously poor nation disrupted the larger, richer nations hegemony in the regionsuddenly, the hegemon had a competitor.IconoclastAttacker of cheerished beliefs or institutionA lifelong iconoclast, Ayn Rand wrote a controversial book entitled The Virtue of Selfishness.ImpassePosition or road from which there is no escape; deadlock, gridlock.Impinge onTresspass on, violateCivil liberties experts argued that a school systems regulating what its students do on Facebook outside o f school is an impingement of their right to free speech.ImputeCredit, attribute; lay blame or responsibility for.The ineffectual CEO was nevertheless a master of public relationshe made sure that all successes were imputed to him, and all o f the failures were imputed to others.IncinerateBurn, reduce to ashes, cremate.InconsequentialInsignificant, unimportantYou wrote a bestselling book and got a stellar review in the New York Timeswhatever your cousin has to say about it is simply inconsequential.InextricablyIn a way such that one cannot untangle or escape somethingInordinateExcessive, not within proper limits, unrestrainedStudents taking practice computer-adaptive tests at home often take an inordinate number of breaks remember, on the real thing, you cant stop just because youre tired or hungry.IntractableDifficult to control, manage, or manipulateIntrepidFearlessIntrepid explorers Lewis and Clark led the first U.S. expedition to the West Coast, facing bitter winters and rough terrain.JuxtaposePlace side by sideMaking a decision between two engagement rings from two different stores was difficult, he notedit would be much easier if he could juxtapose them and compare them directly.MiredStuck or soiledMired in her predecessor s mess and mistakes, the new CEO found it difficult to take the company in a new directionParadigmModel or PatternPolemic Controversial argumentPerhaps Kipnis used the word polemic in the title to indicate that shes making an extreme argument as a means o f starting a debatePostulateClaim, AssertBefore proceeding further, let us postulate that men and women have some fundamental differences. If we can accept that, we can talk about what type of policies should exist to ensure workplace equality.PragmaticPracticalPredisposedVulnerable, Liable, His defense attorney argued that his abusive childhood predisposed him to a life of crime.PreemptPrevent; take the place of, supplant; take before someone else can.

Progenyoffspring, DescendantsThe study showed that selective breeding could cause the progeny of wolves to become more like dogs in a small number of generations.ProximityClosenessRecalcitrantNot obedientThe aspiring kindergarten teacher was not prepared for a roomful of twenty recalcitrant children who wouldnt even sit down, much less learn the words to Holding Hands Around the World.RecapitulateSummarize, Im sorry I had to leave your presentation to take a call I only have a minute, but can you recapitulate what youre proposingReconveneGather, Come togetherRehashRepeatReminiscentLooking back at the pastRenderGive, SubmitRepercussionsConsequencesReticentRestrained, Silent, Reserved, DiscreetRifeHappening frequentlySemanticRelating to the different meanings of words or other symbolsSlewA large number of quantityStaggeredStarting and ending at different timesEmployees who work on staggered schedules may only see each other for part o f the day.SubvertOverthrow, CorruptSuffrageThe right to voteTransientTemporary, Not lastingTransmuteTransformArdor Intense & passionate feelingBishop's ARDOR for landscape was evident when he passionately described the beauty ofthe scenic Hudson ValleyArticulateAble to speak clearly & expressively AssuageEase, SoftenAttenuateTo reduce in force or degreeThe Bill of Rights ATTENUATED the traditional power of government to change laws at will.CapriciousChange quickly, Fickle, Queen Elizabeth I was quite CAPRICIOUS; her courtiers could never be sure which of theirnumber would catch her fancy.Chauvinistsomeone prejudiced in favor of a group to which he or she belongsThe attitude that men are inherently superior to women and therefore must be obeyed iscommon among male CHAUVINISTS.ChicaneryDeception by means of craft or guileDishonest used car salesmen often use CHICANERY to sell their beat-up old cars.CresendoSteadily increasing volume or forceThe CRESCENDO of tension became unbearable as Eve1 Knievel prepared to jump hismotorcycle over the school busesDerideRidicule, Scoff, Mock, Scorn, DisdainThe awkward child was often DERIDED by his "cooler" peers.DerisiveIn a mocking mannerDesiccateTo dry out thoroghlyDesultoryDisconnected, Aimless, HaphazardDiane had a DESULTORY academic record; she had changed majors 12 times in 3 years.DiatribeAn abusive, condemnatory speechThe trucker bellowed a DIATRIBE at the driver who had cut him offDiffidentLacking self confidenceSteve's DIFFIDENT manner during the job interview stemmed from his nervous nature and lack of experience in the field.DilateTo make larger, to expandWhen you enter a darkened room, the pupils of your eyes DILATE to let in more light.DilatoryIntended to delayThe congressman used DILATORY measures to delay the passage of the bill.DirgeMournful speechMelville wrote the poem A DIRGE for James McPherson for the funeral of a Union general who was killed in 1864.Discernto perceive, or to recognize It is easy to DISCERN the difference between butter and butter-flavored topping.DissembleTo present a false appearanceThe villain could DISSEMBLE to the police no longer-he admitted the deed and tore upthe floor to reveal the body of the old man.EloquentPersuasive and moving, especially in speechEruditeLearned, ScholarlyThe annual meeting of philosophy professors was a gathering of the most ERUDITE, weUpublishedindividuals in the fieldEsotericKnown or understand by only a fewOnly a handful of experts are knowledgeable about the ESOTERIC world of particle physics.ExculphateTo clear from blame, prove innocentThe adversarial legal system is intended to convict those who are guilty and to EXCULPATEthose who are innocent.ExigentUrgentThe patient was losing blood so rapidly that it was EXIGENT to stop the source of thebleeding.FloridExcessively decorated or embellishedThe palace had been decorated in an excessively FLORID style; every surface had beencarved and gilded.FomentAgitate, Ignite, or inflameThe protesters tried to FOMENT feeling against the war through their speeches anddemonstrations.GarrulousTending to talk a lotEFFUSIVE, LOQUACIOUSGregarious Outgoing, socialShe was so GREGARIOUS that when she found herself alone she felt quite sad.ImperturbableNot capable of being disturbedThe counselor had so much experience dealing with distraught children that she seemed IMPERTURBABLE, even when faced with the wildest tantrums.Impervious Impossible to penetrateIMPREGNABLEImpetuousQuick to act without thinkingIt is not good for an investment broker to be IMPETUOUS, since much thought should begiven to all the possible options.Implacable Unable to calm downHis rage at the betrayal was so great that he remained IMPLACMLE for weeksIngenuousshowing innocence or childlike simplicityShe was so INGENUOUS that her friends feared that her innocence and trustfulness wouldbe exploited when she visited the big city.InimicalHostile or unfriendlyEven though a cease-fire had been in place for months, the two sides were still INIMICALto each other.InnocuousHarmless, BenignIntransigentuncompromising; refusing to be reconciledThe professor was INTRANSIGENT on the deadline, insisting that everyone turn theassignment in at the same time.IrascibleEasily made angryLaconicUsing few wordsMalleableCapable of being shapedMonotonyLack of variationThe MONOTONY of the sound of the dripping faucet almost drove the research assistant crazy.ObsequiousServile, sycophant, flattering, submissive, FawningThe OBSEQUIOUS new associate made sure to compliment her supervisor's tie and agreewith him on every issue.ObviateTo preventThe river was shallow enough to wade across at many points, which OBVIATED the need for a bridge.OccludeTo stop up, to prevent the passage ofA shadow is thrown across the Earth's surface during a solar eclipse,when the light from thesun is OCCLUDED by the moon.OnerousTroublesome and oppressiveThe assignment was so extensive and difficult to manage that it proved ONEROUS to theteam in charge of it.OpprobriumPublic disgrace, DishonorAfter the scheme to embezzle the elderly was made public, the treasurer resigned in utterOPPROBRIUM.OstentationExcessive showiness, The OSTENTATION of the Sun King's court is evident in the lavish decoration and luxuriousnessof his palace at Versailles.Paragonmodel of excellence or perfectionPedantRigidThe graduate instructor's tedious and excessive commentary on the subject soon gained hera reputation as a PEDANT.PerfunctoryDone in a routine way; indifferentThe machinelike bank teller processed the transaction and gave the waiting customer aPERFUNCTORY smile.PermeatePenetratePrecipitateRapid, HurriedUpon learning that the couple married after knowing each other only two months, friendsand family members expected such a PRECIPITATE marriage to end in divorce.PrevaricateTo lie or deviate from the truthRather than admit that he had overslept again, the employee PREVARICATED and claimedthat heavy traffic had prevented him from arriving at work on time.PristineFresh and clean, uncorruptedSince concerted measures had been taken to prevent looting, the archeological site was still PRISTINE when researchers arrived.PropitiatedTo appease, To conciliateThe management PROPITIATED the irate union by agreeing to raise wages for its members.ProprietyCorrect behaviourThe aristocracy maintained a high level of PROPRIETY, adhering to even the most minor social rules.PungentSharp and irritating for the sensesThe smoke from the burning tires was extremely PUNGENT.QuiscentMotionlessMany animals are QUIESCENT over the winter months, minimizing activity in order to conserve energy.Rarefyto make thinnerSince the atmosphere RAREFIES as altitudes increase, the air at the top of very tall mountains is too thin to breathe.Repudiateto reject the validity ofThe old woman's claim that she was Russian royalty was REPUDIATED when DNA tests showed she was of no relation to them.StolidUnemotional, Lacking sensitivityThe prisoner appeared STOLID and unaffected by the judge's harsh sentence.TorporExtreme mental & physical sluggishnessAfter surgery, the patient experienced TORPOR until the anesthesia wore off.VacillateTo sway physicallyThe customer held up the line as he VACILLATED between ordering chocolate chip orrocky road ice cream.AbashEmbrassHe was not at all abashed by her open admiration. AberrantAbnormal, DeviantGiven the aberrant nature of the data, we doubted the validity of theentire experimentAbeyanceSuspended actionThe deal was held in abeyance until her arrivalAbjectLacking prideOn the streets of New York the homeless live in abjectpoverty, huddling in doorways to find shelter from the wind.AbjureRenounce upon oathHe abjured his allegiance to the king.AbnegationSelf sacrifice, repudiationNo act of abnegation was more pronounced than hisrefusal of any rewards for his discovery.AbominableDetestable, Horrible, RepulsiveAbstemiousSelf-denying, Self displinedConcerned whether her vegetarian son's abstemious diet provided him with sufficient protein, the worried mother pressed food on him.AbysmalTerrible, DreadfulHis arrogance is exceeded only by his abysmal ignorance.AccentuateEmphasis, HighlightIf you accentuate the positive and eliminate the negative, you may windup with an overoptimistic view of the worldAccostapproach, confront, hound, detainWhen the two young men accosted me, I wasfrightened because I thought they were going to attack me.AccretionGrowth, IncreaseAcquiesceAgree, ComplyAlthough she appeared to acquiesce to her employer's suggestions, I could tell she had reservations about the changes he wanted madeAcrimoniousBitter in words or mannerThe candidate attacked hisopponent in highly acrimonious terms.AcrophobiaFear of HeightsA born salesman, he could convince someone with a bad case of acrophobiato sign up for a life membership in a sky-diving club.ActuarialCalculating Insurance StatisticsAccording to recent actuarial tables, life expectancy is greater today than it was a century ago.ActuateMotivateI fail to understand what actuated you to reply to this letter so nastilyAcuitySharpnessIn time his youthful acuity of vision failed him, and he needed glasses.AdageWise sayingAdmonitionWarningAfter the student protesters repeatedly rejected Chairman Deng's admonitions, the government issued an ultimatum: either the students would end the demonstration at once or the soldiers would fire on the crowd.AdventitiousAccidental, CasualHe found this adventitious meeting with his friend extremely fortunateAdversaryOpponentThe young wrestler struggled to defeat his adversary.AffrontInsult, OffenceAlacrityCheerful Promptness, EagernessPhil and Dave were raring to get off to the mountains; they packedup their ski gear and climbed into the van with alacrity.AltercationNoisyIn that hottempered household, no meal evercame to a peaceful conclusion; the inevitable altercation might even end in blows.AmbidextrousCapable of using either hand with equal easeAmbulatoryAble to to walkJuan was a highly ambulatory patient; not only didhe refuse to be confined to bed, but he insisted on riding his skateboard up and down the halls.AmeliorateImproveMany social workers have attempted to ameliorate the conditions of people living inthe slumsAmissWrong, FaultySeeing her frown, he wondered if anything were amissAmuletCharm, TalismanAnecdoteStory or short amusing eventRather than make concrete proposals for welfare reform, President Reagan told anecdotes about poor people who became wealthy despite their impoverished backgrounds.AnestheticSubstance that removes sensation with or without loss of consciousnessHis monotonous voice acted like an anesthetic; his audience was soon asleep. anesthesia,AnnotateCommentIn the appendix to the novel, the editor sought to annotate many of the author's more esoteric references.ImpassiveEmotionless, Imperturbable, StoicalPertinaciousResolute, Determind, TenaciousEbullienceEnthusiasm, Exuberance, BuoyancyBuoyantFloatingAbysssAn extremely deep holeConvolutionsTwisting, Coil, ContortionSanguinaryBloody, DeignLower oneself, Deem worthyInvectiveharsh words, venom, execrationInvective poured from the speaker's mouthHideboundNarrow MindedThe hidebound philosopher has insulated himself from all new ideasReconditeProfound, AbstruseRoben submitted a recondite thesis for her PhdWangleTo manipulate something for dishonest endsHe wangled his way to the top position very smartlyAwryWrong, FaultyOur plans went awryRompFunIt is an enjoyable romp, with some well-crafted comic momentsObstreperousNoisy, Vociferous, TumultuousFervidFeverish, Ardent, Passionate, Vehement, Bon Jovi fans were fervid to catch a glimpse of him.CarnivorousEating animal fleshWantonLustful, Profligate, promiscuous, shamelssWhy jeopardize your career in such a wanton way?SanctimoniousSelf righteousAbradeScrape, triturate, Scuff, wear downThe constant rubbing by the rope abraded the edge of the wallDesecrateAbuse, Violate, DishonorIndiscriminate development of colonies and unplanned mining has desecrated the environment.LargessGenerosityMy father demonstrated great largess by giving me his most treasured ancient pen. Discretion JudgementIt is entirely my discretion whether I will go or stayAddleConfuse, FuddleHe seems addled by the change of eventsEmbellishEnhance, Gild, Fancy up, The house is already so magnificent that it need not be embellished. PlebeianLower-class, Plebeian manners elicit scorn in this section of high class society. RetrospectivePensive, Backward lookingA retrospective thought every fortnight may be as useful as a beacon lightMendaciousDishonest, BickerWrangle, Disagress, Scrape, SpeciousMisleadingly attractive, DeceptiveHe reached the wrong conclusion by specious reasoningPretension Improtance, WorthI was laughed at for my pretensions to offer superior governance all by myself. RectitudeUprightness, Integrity, ProbityHer actions clearly depict her rectitude in her motives. ModicumA small amountA modicum of humor sinks well with that audienceTruncateShorten, Abridge, Most of the reforms reaching us, are truncated forms of the original. ManacleHandcuff,Pinion, Shackle, LevityFrivolityDemagogueAn orator who gains power, RadicalThe demagogue's speech provoked the illiterate massesChivalrousValiant, GallantEvinceTo show, FurnishEvanescentMomentary, TenuousHer evanescent marriage left her devastedCravenTimid, Pusillanimous, ScaredIt was a craven act to run away from the wreck without helping the people out of the car. LampoonTakeoff, Squib, Skit, Ridicule, His cartoons lampooned the society of his time. EffervesceRejoice, Ferment, sparkleThe parents effervesced with pride over the achievements of their daughter. PliableAdaptable, Submissive, ResponsiveThe pliable mind of the child tended to all sorts of influencesTangentialDigressive, Divergent, ExtraneousRagamuffinA disreputable person, Gamin, Street personLacerationGash, Injury, Lesion, Pierce, SliceDecadenceDissipation, Downfall, excess, lewdness, evilCalumnyVilification, Libel, DerogationThe speech was considered a calumny of the administrationCitadelStronghold, OpiateDull the senses, drug, dopeThe decision to offer injectable opiates must take all factors into account for each patient. ConcomitantRelated, Incident, You ought to submit the details of your meeting and its concomitant issues. SomnolentSleepy, SoporificStiflePrevent, Suppress, Withhold, PrecludeLegerdemainTrickery, Deception, ConjuringThe con artists' legerdemain lies in stealing goods right under the nose of people. StuporUnconsciousness, Hypnosis, InertiaIn a drunken stupor he took off on foot, forgetting that he had brought his bike. RescindRevoke, Retract, Invalidate, OverrideEffete Lacking in vigor, Evervated, DebilitatedSuch half-hearted measures have made the entire exercise effete and meaningless. CommensurateIn accord, Compatiable LimpidClear, Lucid, pellucidOscillateSwing, Pulsate, LiberateIndolentLazy, Lethargic, Sluggish, slothfulVituperationAbuse, invective, scolding, revilement, obloquy, scurrilityMetaphorPhrase used to compare two unlike objects, ideas, thoughts or feelingsPalatableAgreeable, Delectable, EnjoyableMoratoriumSuspension, Reprieve, Respite, TruceThe moratorium allowed the warring parties to reassess their gains and losses. ZephyrGentle breezeThe coolness of the room was enhanced by the zephyr coming through the window. MinionPretty, Trim, daintyPulchritudeBeauty, Fairness, NomenclatureThe term or terms applied to someone or something, codification, locutionImplodeBurst inwardlyUmbrageDispleasure, GrudgeExpungeDestroy, Obliterate, EffaceEffulgentGlowing, Luminous, RadiantThe wedding hall was effulgent with all the pompous decorationAnachronismAn error in chronology(time)The monarchy is seen ny many people as an anachronism in the modern worldReparteePleasant conversationIn formal settings, do not be intimidated, but do not expect much repartee or laughter eitherIncorrigibleIncapable of being reformedHe is incorrigible liar; no amount of counselling will ever workLoquaciousTalkative, Prolix, GarrulousPerspicacityInsight, Acumnen, AstutenessTractableAmenable, manageableBenignKind and gentle, GraciousHis benign disposition warded off suspicion in the murder caseRamshackleIn poor conditionLumpyKnotty, Bumpy, ChunkyHistrionicOverly dramaticFalliableNot accurate. MistakenRibaldNaughty, Indecent, ObscenePrescientPerceptive, Judious, FarsightedThe countess was famous for her prescient decisions in running her family businessVerdantBlooming, Lush, VerdurousMoribundOn the verge of becoming extinctPrimevalAncientQuidnuncGossipCantankerousQuerrelsome, PeevishDelineatePortray, lay outForgoGive up, RenouncePetulanceIrritable nature, ImpatientChagrinShame, Fretfulness, DisquietMultifariousDiverse, MyriadDiscordantContrary, IncongrousValedictionSaying farewellQuixotic Extravagantly romanticTantamountEquivalentGainsayDisputeCollateCompare critically, RelateDeliriumMadness, Lunacy, insanity, maniaMawkishEmotional, Gushy, tearyFloutScorn, Treat with disdainNefariousBad, Miscreant, OpprobriousIncarcerateConfine, imprisonPejorativeNegative, Belittling, SlightingNascentDevelopingPanaceaRemedy, Nostrumm, remedyCallowImmaturePalliateCover up, Assuage, extenuatePallidSpiritlessSurreptitiousSecretiveRepugnanceStrong distasteImbecilityFollishness, Twaddle, TomfooleryMasqueradeWear a mask or disguiseDiaphanousFine, TransparentPunctiliousCareful, Precise, DemandingHarangueDiatribe, sermonizing discourseImpudenceInsolence, Rudeness, MaelstromPowerful, Fuss, Flap, PandemoniumPerniciousExceedingly harmfulBenedictionClosing prayerPlaintiveSorrowfulReprobateunprincipledVicariousOn behalf of, SubstitutePalimpsestScript, Article, DocumentMagnanimousForgivingDerelictionAbandonment, DesolationMunificenceFree givingDepravityCorruptionPrecariousCriticalInsinuateHint, SuggestFortuitousAccidental, CasualTurpitudeVileness, Wrongdoing, WickednessEquanimityCalmness, AplombSalubriousHealthfulViscousThick, StickyProscribeDenounce, Condemn, CensureLassitudeWeariness, WeaknessCastigateScold, Rebuke, Reprimand, ReproveFastidiousmeticulous, Punctiliouis, ScrupulousQuiescentRefinedFelicitousEffectivenessPhlegmaticIndifferent, UnemotionalIdolatryToo much admirationCataclysmDisaster, Flood, DelugeDiscursiveDigressive, Rambling, RabbleCrowdFractiousReadily angeredRuptureBurst, Broken, DisruptDissoluteDisapproving, Immoral, DebauchedImpertinentDisrespectful, Impudent, CheekyPenitenceSorrow, Repentance, RegretSuppositionPresumption, ConjectureProbityIntegrity, UprightnessObfuscateTo darken, Muddle, Perplex, CloudThe false witnesses further obfuscated the already convoluted caseButtressSupportSalutaryHealthfulCognizanceUnderstandingGrandiloquentPompous, Lofty, High-flownSacrosanctVery Sacred, Pious, Holy, InviolableDenigrateDefame, malign, Slander, StigmatizeSonorousLoud, PrurientCrude, CircuitousNot direct,Circular, RoundaboutPugnaciousAggressiveEffronteryArrogance, AudacityIgnominiousHumiliating, IngloriousConciliateWin over, Placate, ReconcileFallaciousIncorrect, FalseCompendiumDigest, Brief, EpitomeDeprecateTo express earnest disapproval ofPrecociousAhead of age in understandingReproachDisgrace, Admonish, ReprimandMetamorphosisTransformationIndigentNeedyPantomimeMotion as communicationRefractoryStubbornImpermeableImpassable, ImmovableCupidityStrong desire,Avarice, avidityGossamerLight and delicateLicentiousUncontrolledDigressionDivergence, Deviation, DeparturePromulgatemake known, PublishVitrolicBiting, Acid, BitterGumptionDare, gut, wisdomLugubriousSorrowfulDilettanteAmatuerFlaccidLoose, SlackScurrilousVulgar, ShamelessLitany(n.) a prayer or chant; a long listPeculate(v.) to steal another's money or propertyCaustic(a.) harsh or corrosivePeregrinationthe act of traveling; an excursionBestial showing a lack of human sensibility; like an animalRecantto withdraw a previously held statement of beliefCloistera tranquil and secluded placeNebulousunclear or vagueArchaisman old expression or practice that is no longer usedPlumbTo measure the depth of something Deferencecourtesy, respectCommiserateto show sympathy forOverweeningarrogant; excessivePotentatea powerful ruler; an important personCarpingpetty nagging criticismEntreatTo ask earnestlySacrilegedisrespectful treatment of something sacredIdiosyncrasyany personal peculiarity, mannerismCavortto frolicSylvanpertaining to or characteristic of a forestCoteriea group of people with a common interestApocryphalof questionable authenticityConjureto summonPariahone who is rejected by a social groupConsummatecomplete or perfectDuressImprisonment ; the use of threatsForbearTo not do somethingGamina child who roams the streetsSubjugateto bring somebody under the control of anotherImmaculateperfectly clean, pureCharlatanone who feigns knowledge or abilityProdigal extravagantly wastefulFoibleMinor flawDebutantea young woman being introduced to societyInure to habituateCholeric easily angered, irascibleEmollientsoothing; a soothing substanceProgencydescendants, offspring; followersPervadeto spread throughoutFatuousstupid or foolish in a self-satisfied wayBlandishmentanything designed to flatter or coaxFleeceto defraud or swindleNeologisma newly invented word or phraseExpostulateto attempt to dissuade somebody from doing somethingMartinetsomebody who demands exact conformity to rulesFlaunt to display proudlyPlatitudea trite statementImpugnto criticize or cast doubt onBrook to tolerate something or somebody unpleasantEspouseto support or adoptProgenitoran ancestor in the direct lineIngratiateto seek to please somebody to gain favorDescantto talk or write at lengthIneffableimpossible to describe in wordsParoxysma sudden uncontrollable spasmOstensibleApparent, Professed, Supposed, PerceivedPromiscuitythe practice of indulging in casual sexual relationsImproviseTo perform without preparationDeleteriousharmfulMercurialending to change mood unexpedtelyEpigrama witty sayingSaturninemelancholy, gloomy, moroseTemporizeact evasively in order to gain timeReconnoiterto explore an area and gather informationConsanguinitya relationship by bloodGoadto urge; to give courage toSedulousworking diligently and carefullySuppliantasking humbly and earnestlyImmureto imprison, to incarcerateExpropriateto take arbitrarily or by forceEncumbranceA burdenEnervateTo weakenPanegyricA formal expression of praiseTortuoushighly intricate; windingRecidivismthe act of returning to a life of crimeRestivehard to manageCompunctionfeelings of shame and regretEschewto avoid, shun, keep away fromSciona young descendant or heirTurgidbombastic; swollenSalaciouscharacterized by lustReciprocateto give back in returnBrusqueabrupt or curt in manner or speechPropinquitythe property of being close togetherExcoriate to criticize severelyNostruma hypothetical cure-all that may have no true efficacyPerquisitea privilege that goes along with a jobDemurto object; an objectionDudgeona fit of angerLionizeTo treat as a celebrityImportuneto trouble with demands; to beg for insistentlyWeltera confused multitude of thingsImprecateto pray for evil; to invoke a cursefurtiveDone secretlyEmulateto try to equal somebody or somethingRailleryFriendly teasingPeripatetictraveling, especially for workPerjureto tell a lie in a court of lawRaconteura skilled story-tellerOfficiousannoyingly eager to helpForfendTo prevent something from happeningCabala group of people with secret purposes and meetingsProfligaterecklessly wasteful; having low moralsRefulgentshining, radiantDefenestrateto throw out of a windowFealtyallegiance or loyaltyMacabre gruesome; distressingContusiona bruise; an injury where the skin is not brokenProselytizeto try to convert somebodyPlenaryattended by all members; complete in all aspectsBereaveTo deprive through deathQuotadianordinary, mundaneRampartA fortificationSimperSmile artificiallyVitiate to make something ineffective; to degradePusillanimouscontemptibly cowardlyRebarbativeserving or tending to repelCynosurethe center of attraction; something that serves to guide or directBowdlerizeto modify by removing inappropriate sections from a textIncendiaryintending or designed to start firesGalvanizeto exciteApotheosisa paragon; elevation to divine statusCapitulateto surrender; to give up or give inBourgeoisconforming to standards and conventions of the middle classDistendto swell upExpurgation the removal of indecent passages from a textConvalesceto recover from an illnessRecumbentlying downFracasa noisy quarrelDecampleave suddenlyProdigious enormous; exceptionalMettleDetermination, strength of characterSententiousoverly moralizingMeretriciousattractive in a superficial manner but without real valuePeccadillo a minor offenseRedolentsuggestive or reminiscent of something; having an aromaBadinagelight and playful conversationArrogateto claim or take without rightPeremptoryDictorialFustianpompous or pretentious speech, bombastProclivityA natural inclinationMootOpen argumentSloughto discard; to ignore; a swampTruculentaggressively defiant or hostileDeclamatorylofty in style, bombasticPhilistinesomeone who is uncultured and indifferent to intellectual mattersDiscourseto communicate in an orderly fashionVenalCapable of being bribedForsakeTo withdraw supportApocalypticPredicting or involving widespread destructionToadyA person who tries to please others to gain a personal advantageFulminateTo criticize severelyUrbanesophisticated and refinedEncomiuma formal expression of praise, a eulogyRequiteto pay something back for a service or a kindnessFecund fruitful in offspring or vegetation; intellectually productiveThrenodya speech of lament for the deadPicayunehaving little value or importanceMercenary a hired soldier; someone motivated only by moneyMedicantA beggerSeraphiclike an angelCulumniate to slanderTravestya distorted representation of somethingExtemporizeto perform without preparationAmalgamA mixture of multiple thingsParsimoniousExtremely frugal, MiserlyPrecludeKeep from happening or arising, Make impossibleVolubilityThe quality of talking or writing easily and continuouslyConspicuousCompletely obviousRusticCharacteristic of rural lifeGermaneRelevant and appropriateChortleLaugh merrily, to chuckleIncisiveHaving or demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctionsPredilectionA strong likingEngenderGive rise toContriveTo pull off a plan, usually through skill or trickeryPanacheDistinctive and stylish elegenceForlornMarked by or showing hopelessnessDisaffectedDiscontented as toward authorityStaunchFirm and dependable especially in loyaltySubsumeContain or includeInsidiousWorking in a subtle but destructive wayBumblingLacking physical movement skills, espicially with handsIgnobleDishonourableTemperanceThe trait of avoiding excessesSoporificInducing mental lethargySurrealStrange, weirdFomentTry to stir up public opinionCircumscribeRestrict or confineInscrutableNot easily understood, unfathomableInsolentRude and arrogantEdifyingEnlightening or uplifting so as to encourage intellectual or moral improvementNauncea subtle difference in meaning or opinionMaverickSomeone who exhibits great independence in thought and actionRafta large number of somethingFerretTo search for something persistentlyPowwowAn informal meeting or discussionDisparateTwo things are fundamentally differentImponderableImpossible to estimate or figure outExtenuatemaking less guilty or more forgivableCadaverousEmaciated, GauntScintillatingDescribes someone who is briliant and livelyViragoAn ill-tempered or violent womanPittancea small amount of moneyInclementUnpleasant, stormyDisenfranchiseDeprive of voting rightsMalleableCapable of being shapedFlounderbehave awkwardly, Have difficultiesSnideExpressive of contempt; derogatory in an indirect wayStolidhaving or revealing little emotion or sensibilityRenegeFail to fulfill a promise or obligation

Word1GRE VOCABULARY

WordsMeaningSentencesAggravateMake WorseAllowing your band to practice in our garage has greatly aggravated my headache.AmbivalentUncertainThe health care plan has been met with ambivalence from lawmakers who would like to pass the bill but find supporting it to be politically impossible.Annihilate Completely destroyThe Persian troops dared not attack the Greeks, but decoyed them into the interior, beyond the Tigris, and tried to annihilate them by treachery.AnointRefer to power or praiseAfter Principal Smith raised test scores over 60% at his school, it was only a matter of time before he was anointed superintendant by a fawning school board.Archaic characteristics of Early period, Ancient, old periodThe school's archaic computer system predated even floppy disksit stored records on tape drives!BelieContradictThe data belie the accepted theoryeither weve made a mistake, or we have an amazing new discovery on our hands!BlightRuin or cause to wither(decline), Disease that kills plant rapidly.Many potato farmers have fallen into poverty as a result of blight killing their crops.BluntTo dull, weakenBrookAllow, tolerate, AcceptThe dictator will brook no dissent.BufferBarrier, DefenceIt is probable that the isolation of Tibet was inspired originally by the Chinese, with the idea of creating a buffer state against European aggression from this direction.ClamorNoise, uproarAs soon as sense of scandal emerged, the press was clamoring for details.CloakTo cover or concealApples new products are often cloaked in mystery before they are released; before the launch of the iPad, even tech reviewers had little idea what the new device would be.Collusion/ColludeConspiracyAfter two competing software companies doubled their prices on the same day, leaving consumers no lower-priced alternative, the federal government investigated the companies for collusion.CompliantObeying, Submissive, ComplyThose who are not compliant with the regulations will be put on probation and possible expelled. Condoneoverlook, regarded as harmlessWhile underage drinking is illegal, at many universities, it is tacitly condoned by administrations that neglect to enforce anti-drinking policies.ConsolidateCombine, unite, SolidifyAs group leader, Mr. X will consolidate all of our research into a single report.ContemplativeThoughtful, Speculative, RuminativeThe music in this stage of its evolution is inclined to be contemplative and introspective.ConvergeMake towards a pointThe commerce carried on by the river itself is supplemented by the numerous railways, which skirt its banks and converge to its principal towns.Convoluted TwistedTo get from the hotel room to the pool requires following a convoluted path up two staircases and down two othersto get to someplace on the same floor we started on!Corroborate Support, Add evidence toCountenanceTolerance or approveI saw you cheating off my paper, and I cant countenance cheatingeither you turn yourself in or I will report you.CulminatationTermination or final stageA Ph.D. program generally culminates in a written dissertation and its defense to a committee.CynicalNegative, Bitterly PessimisticThe collapse of the former Yugoslavia has been aided and abetted by the various western powers using incredibly cynical maneuvers.DebunkExpose the falseness of myth.Galileo spent his last years under house arrest for debunking the widely held idea that the Sun revolved around the Earth.DeflectCause to curve, Turn asideThe purpose of a shield is to deflect arrows or bullets from an enemy.DichotomyDivision into parts or into two contradictory groupsThe conference focused on the dichotomy of public and private education.DiscreteSeparate, Distinct, DetachedBe sure to use quotation mark and citation mark as appropriate in your paper in order to keep your ideas discrete from those of the experts you are quoting. DiscretionSubject to someone's discretion or judgementThe decision will be made at the discretion of the trustees.DisinterestedUnbiased, Not partial, We will get a disinterested observer to judge who can sing the highest noteDisparateDistint, Different, DiscreteStrong leader, able to motivate a geographically disparate team to achieve agreed goals.DovetailJoin or fit togetherDovetails perfectly into the two final chords of the original.EchelonA level, Rank, GradeObtaining a job on Wall Street doesnt guarantee access to the upper echelon of executives, where multi-million dollar bonuses are the norm.EclecticSelecting the best of everything or from many diverse sourcesEclectic taste is helpful in being a DJcrowds love to hear the latest hip-hop mixed with 80s classics and other unexpected genres of music.EfficacyEffectivenessExtensive trials will be necessary to determine whether the drugs efficacy outweighs the side effects.Emulate Copy in an attempt to equal or be better thanThey were able to emulate the achievements of their predecessors of twelve months ago.EnigmaPuzzle, Mystery, The enormous rock sculptures in Stonehenge, Scotland, are truly an enigmawere they created as part of a religious observance, in deference to a great ruler, or for some other reason?Equivocal Use unclear langauage to decieve or avoid committing a positionNot wanting to lose supporters, the politician equivocated on the issue, tossing out buzzwords related to each side while also claiming more study was needed.ExacerbateMake WorseAllowing your band to practice in our garage has greatly exacerbated my headache.ExpedientSuitable, Proper, EffectiveWhen invited to a wedding you cannot attend, it is expedient to send a gift.FathomUnderstand deeplyI cannot even remotely fathom how you interpreted an invitation to sleep on my couch as permission to take my car on a six-hour joyride!Fledgling Inexperienced or newThe Society of Engineers is available for career day presentations in elementary schools, where we hope to encourage fledgling talents in the applied sciences.ForeshadowIndicate or suggest beforehandThe story foreshadowed some truly horrible events to take place in the not too distant future.FleetingPassing quickly, TransitoryI had assumed our summer romance would be fleeting, so I was very surprised when you proposed marriage!GrandstandImpress or showyAll grandstand ticket holders will be given replacement seats in similar locations as in the existing grandstand and will be closer to the pitch.HegemonyDominations, or AuthorityThe discovery of oil by a previously poor nation disrupted the larger, richer nations hegemony in the regionsuddenly, the hegemon had a competitor.IconoclastAttacker of cheerished beliefs or institutionA lifelong iconoclast, Ayn Rand wrote a controversial book entitled The Virtue of Selfishness.ImpassePosition or road from which there is no escape; deadlock, gridlock.This led to a constitutional impasse which could be resolved only by another election which took place in December 1910.Impinge onTresspass on, violateCivil liberties experts argued that a school systems regulating what its students do on Facebook outside of school is an impingement of their right to free speech.ImputeCredit, attribute; lay blame or responsibility for.The ineffectual CEO was nevertheless a master of public relationshe made sure that all successes were imputed to him, and all of the failures were imputed to others.IncinerateBurn, reduce to ashes, cremate.The proportion of waste incinerated with energy recovery has remained roughly constant at just under 9 per cent.InconsequentialInsignificant, unimportantYou wrote a bestselling book and got a stellar review in the New York Timeswhatever your cousin has to say about it is simply inconsequential.InextricablyIn a way such that one cannot untangle or escape somethingThe religious point of view by intolerance, was completed from the administrative point of view by inextricable disorder.InordinateExcessive, not within proper limits, unrestrainedStudents taking practice computer-adaptive tests at home often take an inordinate number of breaks remember, on the real thing, you cant stop just because youre tired or hungry.IntractableDifficult to control, manage, or manipulateA number of issues have only recently been finally resolved, with some remaining intractable.IntrepidFearlessIntrepid explorers Lewis and Clark led the first U.S. expedition to the West Coast, facing bitter winters and rough terrain.JuxtaposePlace side by sideMaking a decision between two engagement rings from two different stores was difficult, he notedit would be much easier if he could juxtapose them and compare them directly.MiredStuck or soiledMired in her predecessors mess and mistakes, the new CEO found it difficult to take the company in a new direction.ParadigmModel or PatternThe views of the scholars at the Leipzig conference simply do not conform to the dominant paradigm.Polemic Controversial argumentPerhaps Kipnis used the word polemic in the title to indicate that shes making an extreme argument as a means of starting a debate.PostulateClaim, AssertBefore proceeding further, let us postulate that men and women have some fundamental differences. If we can accept that, we can talk about what type of policies should exist to ensure workplace equality.PragmaticPracticalThe decision was pragmatic so that it could be easily extrapolated.PredisposedVulnerable, Liable, His defense attorney argued that his abusive childhood predisposed him to a life of crime.PreemptPrevent; take the place of, supplant; take before someone else can.Preempt any claim to priority he could reasonably make.Progenyoffspring, DescendantsThe study showed that selective breeding could cause the progeny of wolves to become more like dogs in a small number of generations.ProximityClosenessThe arms that rescued her continued to cradle her gently, and what the fall had failed to do to her heart beat, his close proximity completed.RecalcitrantNot obedientThe aspiring kindergarten teacher was not prepared for a roomful of twenty recalcitrant children who wouldnt even sit down, much less learn the words to Holding Hands Around the World.RecapitulateSummarizeIm sorry I had to leave your presentation to take a call I only have a minute, but can you recapitulate what youre proposing.ReconveneGather, Come togetherIt is unclear whether the commission's six members will all agree to reconvene.RehashRepeatAm I being cynical in thinking this was simply rehashed old material dumped in to fill time?ReminiscentLooking back at the pastHis smile was reminiscent of earlier years when he was more pliable.RenderGive, SubmitExpress themselves a little as well as render thanks.RepercussionsConsequencesThe increased cost brought many repercussions for the many young people deterred from going to the university.ReticentRestrained, Silent, Reserved, DiscreetHe is initially reticent, unsure of the motives for my questions.RifeHappening frequentlyConspiracies against him were rife, and in 1884 he narrowly escaped assassination.SemanticRelating to the different meanings of words or other symbolsSlewA large number of quantityThere were several small vehicles, several more men with donkeys, and a slew of boats departing the harbor for the morning catch.StaggeredStarting and ending at different timesEmployees who work on staggered schedules may only see each other for part of the day.SubvertOverthrow, Destroy, or UndermineAgainst any attempt in action to subvert parliamentary government, there was no lawful measure from which ministers would or could shrink.SuffrageThe right to voteThe councils general are elected by universal suffrage of all citizens and those who, though not citizens, have been granted the political franchise.TransientTemporary, Not lastingThe love is often transient, whilst the self-pity is more lasting.TransmuteTransformTransmutes life into consciousness through perception ' The human being is the plant of consciousness.Ardor Intense & passionate feelingBishop's ARDOR for landscape was evident when he passionately described the beauty of the scenic Hudson ValleyArticulateAble to speak clearly & expressively. Articulate when interacting with people, with the ability to express thoughts and ideas clearly.AssuageEase, Soften, To pacifyIt will assuage the fears of subscribers worried about publicly associating themselves with fiction.AttenuateTo reduce in force or degreeThe Bill of Rights ATTENUATED the traditional power of government to change laws at will.CapriciousChange quickly, Fickle, Queen Elizabeth was quite CAPRICIOUS; her courtiers could never be sure which of their number would catch her fancy.Chauvinistsomeone prejudiced in favor of a group to which he or she belongsThe attitude that men are inherently superior to women and therefore must be obeyed is common among male CHAUVINISTS.ChicaneryDeception by means of craft or guileDishonest used car salesmen often use CHICANERY to sell their beat-up old cars.CresendoSteadily increasing volume or forceDerideRidicule, Scoff, Mock, Scorn, DisdainThe awkward child was often DERIDED by his "cooler" peers.DerisiveIn a mocking mannerDesiccateTo dry out thoroghlyDesultoryDisconnected, Aimless, HaphazardDiane had a DESULTORY academic record; she had changed majors 12 times in 3 years.DiatribeAn abusive, condemnatory speechThe trucker bellowed a DIATRIBE at the driver who had cut him offDiffidentLacking self confidenceSteve's DIFFIDENT manner during the job interview stemmed from his nervous nature and lack of experience in the field.DilateTo make larger, to expandWhen you enter a darkened room, the pupils of your eyes DILATE to let in more light.DilatoryIntended to delayThe congressman used DILATORY measures to delay the passage of the bill.

Word2GRE VOCABULARY

WordsMeaningSentencesDiscernto perceive, or to recognize It is easy to DISCERN the difference between butter and butter-flavored topping.DissembleTo present a false appearanceThe villain could DISSEMBLE to the police no longer-he admitted the deed and tore up the floor to reveal the body of the old man.EloquentPersuasive and moving, especially in speechSimon has given a very eloquent description of why people in business are against monetary union.EruditeLearned, ScholarlyThe annual meeting of philosophy professors was a gathering of the most ERUDITE, we published individuals in the field.EsotericKnown or understand by only a fewOnly a handful of experts are knowledgeable about the ESOTERIC world of particle physics.ExculphateTo clear from blame, prove innocentThe adversarial legal system is intended to convict those who are guilty and to EXCULPATE those who are innocent.ExigentUrgentThe patient was losing blood so rapidly that it was EXIGENT to stop the source of the bleeding.FloridExcessively decorated or embellishedThe palace had been decorated in an excessively FLORID style; every surface had been carved and gilded.FomentAgitate, Ignite, or inflameThe protesters tried to FOMENT feeling against the war through their speeches and demonstrations.GarrulousTending to talk a lot, Effusive, LoquaciousRobert was not only without political or military capacity, but was so garrulous that he could not keep a secret.Gregarious Outgoing, socialPaul was so GREGARIOUS that when he found himself alone he felt quite sad.ImperturbableNot capable of being disturbedThe counselor had so much experience dealing with distraught children that she seemed IMPERTURBABLE, even when faced with the wildest tantrums.Impervious Impossible to penetrate, ImpregnableThe houses are built of clay with (generally) flat roofs impervious to fire.ImpetuousQuick to act without thinkingIt is not good for an investment broker to be IMPETUOUS, since much thought should be given to all the possible options.Implacable Unable to calm downHis rage at the betrayal was so great that he remained IMPLACABLE for weeks.Ingenuousshowing innocence or childlike simplicityShe was so INGENUOUS that her friends feared that her innocence and trustfulness would be exploited when she visited the big city.InimicalHostile or unfriendlyEven though a cease-fire had been in place for months, the two sides were still INIMICAL to each other.InnocuousHarmless, BenignIt was likely that the disease in cattle would prove similarly innocuous.Intransigentuncompromising; refusing to be reconciledThe professor was INTRANSIGENT on the deadline, insisting that everyone turn the assignment in at the same time.IrascibleEasily made angryIt is a very quick and highly irascible beast and even known to turn on its pursuerLaconicUsing few wordsSo little did he understand the seriousness of the situation that, when thelaconic message "All is over!"MalleableCapable of being shapedThe metals and alloys which are neither malleable nor ductile can only be worked into required shapes by melting and casting in moulds.MonotonyLack of variationThe MONOTONY of the sound of the dripping faucet almost drove the research assistant crazy.ObsequiousServile, sycophant, flattering, submissive, FawningThe OBSEQUIOUS new associate made sure to compliment her supervisor's tie and agree with him on every issue.ObviateTo preventThe river was shallow enough to wade across at many points, which OBVIATED the need for a bridge.OccludeTo stop up, to prevent the passage ofA shadow is thrown across the Earth's surface during a solar eclipse,when the light from the sun is OCCLUDED by the moon.OnerousTroublesome and oppressiveThe assignment was so extensive and difficult to manage that it proved ONEROUS to the team in charge of it.OpprobriumPublic disgrace, DishonorAfter the scheme to embezzle the elderly was made public, the treasurer resigned in utter OPPROBRIUM.OstentationExcessive showiness, The OSTENTATION of the Sun King's court is evident in the lavish decoration and luxuriousness of his palace at Versailles.Paragonmodel of excellence or perfectionWe may conclude that Sappho was not utterly vicious, though by no means a paragon of virtue.PedantRigidThe graduate instructor's tedious and excessive commentary on the subject soon gained her a reputation as a PEDANT.PerfunctoryDone in a routine way; indifferentThe machinelike bank teller processed the transaction and gave the waiting customer a PERFUNCTORY smile.PermeatePenetrateQuality concerns as the main general driver, especially as these now permeate through the supply chain.PrecipitateRapid, HurriedUpon learning that the couple married after knowing each other only two months, friends and family members expected such a PRECIPITATE marriage to end in divorce.PrevaricateTo lie or deviate from the truthRather than admit that he had overslept again, the employee PREVARICATED and claimed that heavy traffic had prevented him from arriving at work on time.PristineFresh and clean, uncorruptedSince concerted measures had been taken to prevent looting, the archeological site was still PRISTINE when researchers arrived.PropitiatedTo appease, To conciliateThe management PROPITIATED the irate union by agreeing to raise wages for its members.ProprietyCorrect behaviourThe aristocracy maintained a high level of PROPRIETY, adhering to even the most minor social rules.PungentSharp and irritating for the sensesThe smoke from the burning tires was extremely PUNGENT.QuiscentMotionlessMany animals are QUIESCENT over the winter months, minimizing activity in order to conserve energy.Rarefyto make thinnerSince the atmosphere RAREFIES as altitudes increase, the air at the top of very tall mountains is too thin to breathe.Repudiateto reject the validity ofThe old woman's claim that she was Russian royalty was REPUDIATED when DNA tests showed she was of no relation to them.StolidUnemotional, Lacking sensitivityThe prisoner appeared STOLID and unaffected by the judge's harsh sentence.TorporExtreme mental & physical sluggishnessAfter surgery, the patient experienced TORPOR until the anesthesia wore off.VacillateTo sway physicallyThe customer held up the line as he VACILLATED between ordering chocolate chip or rocky road ice cream.AbashEmbrassHe was not at all abashed by her open admiration. AberrantAbnormal, DeviantGiven the aberrant nature of the data, we doubted the validity of the entire experiment.AbeyanceSuspended actionThe deal was held in abeyance until her arrival.AbjectLacking prideOn the streets of New York the homeless live in abject poverty, huddling in doorways to find shelter from the wind.AbjureRenounce upon oathHe abjured his allegiance to the king.AbnegationSelf sacrifice, repudiationNo act of abnegation was more pronounced than his refusal of any rewards for his discovery.AbominableDetestable, Horrible, RepulsiveAlthough his cruelty was abominable, he was not altogether without generosity, and by his courage and audacity he acquired a certain romantic popularity.AbstemiousSelf-denying, Self displinedConcerned whether her vegetarian son's abstemious diet provided him with sufficient protein, the worried mother pressed food on him.AbysmalTerrible, DreadfulHis arrogance is exceeded only by his abysmal ignorance.AccentuateEmphasis, HighlightIf you accentuate the positive and eliminate the negative, you may wind up with an overoptimistic view of the world.Accostapproach, confront, hound, detainWhen the two young men accosted me, I was frightened because I thought they were going to attack me.AccretionGrowth, IncreaseThe opening of railway communication with London in 1906 resulted in a considerable accretion of residential population.AcquiesceAgree, ComplyAlthough she appeared to acquiesce to her employer's suggestions, I could tell she had reservations about the changes he wanted madeAcrimoniousBitter in words or mannerThe candidate attacked his opponent in highly acrimonious terms.AcrophobiaFear of HeightsA born salesman, he could convince someone with a bad case of acrophobia to sign up for a life membership in a sky-diving club.ActuarialCalculating Insurance StatisticsAccording to recent actuarial tables, life expectancy is greater today than it was a century ago.ActuateMotivateI fail to understand what actuated you to reply to this letter so nastily.AcuitySharpnessIn time his youthful acuity of vision failed him, and he needed glasses.AdageWise sayingIt is an old adage that history repeats itself, first as tragedy, and then as farce.AdmonitionWarning, Advice, Mild criticismHis final admonition was that I take whatever course I felt would produce the best results.AdventitiousAccidental, CasualHe found this adventitious meeting with his friend extremely fortunate.AdversaryOpponentThe young wrestler struggled to defeat his adversary.AffrontInsult, Offence"By letting them attack you, Harmony made a personal affront to the Dark One," Gabriel explained.AlacrityCheerful Promptness, EagernessPhil and Dave were raring to get off to the mountains; they packed up their ski gear and climbed into the van with alacrity.AltercationNoisyIn that hottempered household, no meal ever came to a peaceful conclusion; the inevitable altercation might even end in blows.AmbidextrousCapable of using either hand with equal easeAmbidextrous design makes working more comfortable, whether you mouse with your left or right hand.AmbulatoryAble to to walkJuan was a highly ambulatory patient; not only did he refuse to be confined to bed, but he insisted on riding his skateboard up and down the halls.AmeliorateImproveMany social workers have attempted to ameliorate the conditions of people living in the slums.AmissWrong, FaultySeeing her frown, he wondered if anything were amiss.AmuletCharm, TalismanShe raised the amulet to stare at it, the cacophony around her rising as the excited inmates glimpsed their freedom.AnecdoteStory or short amusing eventRather than make concrete proposals for welfare reform, President Reagan told anecdotes about poor people who became wealthy despite their impoverished backgrounds.AnestheticSubstance that removes sensation with or without loss of consciousnessHis monotonous voice acted like an anesthetic; his audience was soon asleep. anesthesia,AnnotateCommentIn the appendix to the novel, the editor sought to annotate many of the author's more esoteric references.ImpassiveEmotionless, Imperturbable, StoicalAttempts were made however to try to overcome the apparent impasse.PertinaciousResolute, Determind, TenaciousApart from his pertinacious fight for economy Hume was not always fortunate in his political activity.EbullienceEnthusiasmBuoyantFloatingThe engine room was pumped out to make the craft buoyant, ready for the final trip in to the Humber.AbysssAn extremely deep holeThe shape is that of a truncated cone, interrupted on the west by the Valle del Bove, a huge sterile abyss, 3 m.ConvolutionTwisting, Coil, ContortionHe kills his victim by rolling himself round the body till he breaks its ribs, or suffocates it by one irresistible convolution round its throat.SanguinaryBloody, A sanguinary struggle between the party of independence and the adherents of Spain spread over the whole country, and was carried on with varying fortune.DeignLower oneself, Deem worthyInvectiveharsh words, venom, execrationInvective poured from the speaker's mouth.HideboundNarrow MindedThe hidebound philosopher has insulated himself from all new ideas.ReconditeProfound, AbstruseRoben submitted a recondite thesis for her Phd.WangleTo manipulate something for dishonest endsHe wangled his way to the top position very smartly.AwryWrong, FaultyOur plans went awry.RompFunIt is an enjoyable romp, with some well-crafted comic momentsObstreperousNoisy, Vociferous, TumultuousPCP also releases adrenaline so users become immensely strong; if they become obstreperous they often need several people to control them.FervidFeverish, Ardent, Passionate, Vehement, Bon Jovi fans were fervid to catch a glimpse of him.CarnivorousEating animal fleshWantonLustful, Profligate, promiscuous, shamelssWhy jeopardize your career in such a wanton way?SanctimoniousSelf righteousSanctimonious attitude that claimed that New Labor was morally superior to the Conservative Party.AbradeScrape, triturate, Scuff, wear downThe constant rubbing by the rope abraded the edge of the wall.DesecrateAbuse, Violate, DishonorIndiscriminate development of colonies and unplanned mining has desecrated the environment.

Word3GRE VOCABULARY

WordsMeaningSentencesDiscretion JudgementIt is entirely my discretion whether I will go or stay.AddleConfuse, FuddleHe seems addled by the change of events.EmbellishEnhance, Gild, Fancy up, The house is already so magnificent that it need not be embellished. PlebeianLower-class, Plebeian manners elicit scorn in this section of high class society. RetrospectivePensive, Backward lookingA retrospective thought every fortnight may be as useful as a beacon lightMendaciousDishonestIn no case is the evidence of the senses fallacious or mendacious; the fallacy is in the inference.BickerWrangle, Disagress, Scrape, His wives sometimes bickered among themselves and even once engaged in a petty plot against him.SpeciousMisleadingly attractive, DeceptiveHe reached the wrong conclusion by specious reasoning.Pretension Importance, WorthI was laughed at for my pretensions to offer superior governance all by myself. RectitudeUprightness, Integrity, ProbityHer actions clearly depict her rectitude in her motives. ModicumA small amountA modicum of humor sinks well with that audience.TruncateShorten, Abridge, Most of the reforms reaching us, are truncated forms of the original. ManacleHandcuff,Pinion, Shackle, The prisoner manacled in his dark cell awaiting execution falls down under the burden of his helplessness.LevityFrivolityThe balloon is inefficient because of its levity; the flying creature is efficient because of its weight.DemagogueAn orator who gains power, RadicalHe was an enthusiastic, but a fickle and ambitious demagogue, and he achieved a better reputation as a writer.ChivalrousValiant, Gallant, a man who is attentive and courteous to womenThe chivalrous courtesy which he showed to the captive princesses was a favourite theme for later rhetoricians.EvinceTo show, FurnishThe women have frankness and strength of character; they work hard in the fields, and as a rule evince domestic virtue.EvanescentMomentaryThe invention of the art of writing afforded the means of substituting precise and permanent records for vague and evanescent tradition.CravenTimid, Pusillanimous, ScaredIt was a craven act to run away from the wreck without helping the people out of the car. LampoonTakeoff, Squib, Skit, Ridicule, His cartoons lampooned the society of his time. EffervesceRejoice, Ferment, sparkleThe parents effervesced with pride over the achievements of their daughter. PliableAdaptable, Submissive, ResponsiveThe pliable mind of the child tended to all sorts of influencesTangentialSomething only partially related to a main pointSometimes the epidermis is considerably more developed by tangential division of its cells, forming a many-layered water-tissue.RagamuffinA disreputable person, Gamin, Street personOne of my correspondents remembered two little ragamuffins in St Andrews Street yelling at the pitch of their voices to the same tune.LacerationGash, Injury, Lesion, Pierce, SliceIt was my misfortune to receive severe lacerations to three fingers.DecadenceDissipation, Downfall, excess, lewdness, evilThe purely fictitious and romantic tales added to the personal history of Charlemagne and his warriors in the 13th century are inferior in manner, and belong to the decadence of romance.CalumnyVilification, Libel, DerogationThe speech was considered a calumny of the administrationCitadelStrongholdThe Military College of South Carolina, in Marion Square, Charleston, South Carolina, named for the building in which it was first housed, a 19th-century Citadel (Fortress).OpiateDull the senses, drug, dopeThe decision to offer injectable opiates must take all factors into account for each patient. ConcomitantRelated, Incident, You ought to submit the details of your meeting and its concomitant issues. SomnolentSleepy, SoporificStiflePrevent, Suppress, Withhold, PrecludeIn spite of the seriousness of the situation, Dean was forced to stifle a chuckle.LegerdemainTrickery, Deception, ConjuringThe con artists' legerdemain lies in stealing goods right under the nose of people. StuporUnconsciousness, Hypnosis, InertiaIn a drunken stupor he took off on foot, forgetting that he had brought his bike. RescindRevoke, Retract, Invalidate, OverrideAs a preliminary to negotiation, the government was required to rescind all the obnoxious measures.Effete Lacking in vigor, Evervated, DebilitatedSuch half-hearted measures have made the entire exercise effete and meaningless. CommensurateIn accord, Compatiable , equal or proportionate.He was told to undertake any other duties commensurate with the nature of the post, at the discretion of the Board of Trustees.LimpidClear, Lucid, pellucidIt is said to be pure and limpid, free from any disagreeable taste or smell, and capable of being kept for a year without turning rancid(Bad, Sour)Oscillateswing back and forthThe rods are caused to oscillate slowly by an engine, one rising while the other is falling.IndolentLazy, Lethargic, Sluggish, slothfulEvidently Peter was determined to tear his son away from a life of indolent ease.VituperationAbuse, invective, scolding, revilement, obloquy, scurrilityAfter much unreasoning vituperation the Irish Catholic civil governor, who had arrived amidst the acclamations of all, left his post in disgust.MetaphorPhrase used to compare two unlike objects, ideas, thoughts or feelingsYour obstinate persistence in using spatial metaphors is actually turning your thinking inside out!PalatableAgreeable, Delectable, EnjoyableThe flesh is highly prized by the natives, and is palatable to Europeans.MoratoriumSuspension, Reprieve, Respite, TruceThe moratorium allowed the warring parties to reassess their gains and losses. ZephyrGentle breezeThe coolness of the room was enhanced by the zephyr coming through the window. MinionAssistant, SycophantThey are not the sort of people to carry large amounts of cash with them - they have minions for that sort of thing.PulchritudeBeauty, Fairness, NomenclatureThe term or terms applied to someone or something, codification, locutionBut progress was made difficult, in consequence of the clumsy and irregular nomenclature employed.ImplodeBurst inwardlyThat is why it has sustained itself through three election victories and why the Conservative hegemony of a generation has so dramatically imploded.UmbrageDispleasure, GrudgeThe Irish parliament took umbrage at the superiority claimed by England, and threw out the measure as an insult, though, even as it stood, it was undeniably in favor of Ireland.ExpungeDestroy, Obliterate, EffaceAs part of the cure, therefore, intellectual challenge and dissent were to be ruthlessly expunged.EffulgentGlowing, Luminous, RadiantThe wedding hall was effulgent with all the pompous decoration.AnachronismAn error in chronology(time)The monarchy is seen by many people as an anachronism in the modern world.ReparteePleasant conversationIn formal settings, do not be intimidated, but do not expect much repartee or laughter either.IncorrigibleIncapable of being reformedHe is incorrigible liar; no amount of counselling will ever work.LoquaciousTalkative, Prolix, GarrulousHe had neither the patience nor the tact for managing loquacious parliamentary pedants.PerspicacityInsight, Acumnen, AstutenessTractableAmenable, manageableWith the advent of faster computers, models become tractable which previously were not.BenignKind and gentle, GraciousHis benign disposition warded off suspicion in the murder caseRamshackleIn poor conditionDuring the trial, the somewhat ramshackle nature of the Halifax's security procedures came to light.LumpyKnotty, Bumpy, ChunkyThe entrance was quitelumpywith poor visibility across to the Isle of Wight.HistrionicOverly dramaticMaria Theresa had undoubtedly an instinctive histrionic sense of the perspective of the theatre, and could adopt the appropriate attitude and gesture, passionate, dignified or pathetic, required to impress those she wished to influence.FalliableNot accurate. MistakenMemories are notoriously fallible on material facts, vulnerable to suggestion, to rewriting, to complete erasure.RibaldNaughty, Indecent, ObsceneRibald songs with explicit amorous lyrics such as " Where did the spider bite you, dear?PrescientPerceptive, Judious, FarsightedThe countess was famous for her prescient decisions in running her family business.VerdantBlooming, Lush, VerdurousThe man with verdant eyes stood beside him, watching her.MoribundOn the verge of becoming extinctHe took precautions, however, against any of the dead or moribund principalities being resuscitated, and punished with merciless severity any attempt to resist or undermine his authority.PrimevalAncientBears, wolves, bison, deer, wild turkeys and wild pigeons were common in the primeval forests of Ohio, but they long ago disappeared.QuidnuncGossipCantankerousQuerrelsome, PeevishDespite what you say, your problems are much more likely to stem from a particularly cantankerous tape recorder than inferior cassettes.DelineatePortray, lay outDifficult aspects between Venus and the Moon are not well delineated.ForgoGive up, RenounceJohn Stuart Mill preferred to disbelieve in the omnipotence of God rather than forgo the belief in His goodness.PetulanceIrritable nature, ImpatientThe vanity, egotism and petulance of Boscovich provoked his rivals and made him many enemies, so that in hope of peace he was driven to frequent change of residence.ChagrinShame, Fretfulness, DisquietTo his infinite chagrin, during this brief absence his father died.MultifariousDiverse, MyriadHer life was as strange and adventurous as any of her novels, which are for the most part idealized versions of the multifarious incidents of her life.DiscordantContrary, IncongrousDarian closed his eyes and watched the discordant memories flickering through her mind, not wanting her to suffer alone.ValedictionSaying farewellI bid you all a fond valediction, but I must move on.Quixotic Extravagantly romanticTantamountEquivalentGainsayDisputeCollateCompare critically, RelateWe collect and collate numbers that impact the economy.DeliriumMadness, Lunacy, insanity, maniaThe presence of toxins in the blood not only affects the brain, causing delirium, but also other organs, the heart and lung, and may cause fatal syncope or respiratory failure.MawkishEmotional, Gushy, tearyWhat was once sweet has become mawkish, and the once exquisite simile appears little more than an ingenious conceit.FloutScorn, Treat with disdainWe will make businesses which flagrantly flout the rules criminally liable for the consequences.NefariousBad, Miscreant, OpprobriousWhat powerful threats might be exerted to force this skill to someone's use, nefarious of otherwise?IncarcerateConfine, imprisonHe is currently incarcerated in Spain awaiting extradition to Morocco.PejorativeNegative, Belittling, SlightingSome medical terms were clearly pejorative and have since been abandoned.NascentDeveloping, Just beginningDazzled by this confirmation of his nascent confidence, Sabbatai for a time found himself the object of suspicion and even persecution.PanaceaRemedy, NostrummHe finds his panacea in the concrete life of humanity.CallowImmatureCallow young men, I wanted to ally myself with the aforementioned exemplars of rock cool.PalliateCover up, Assuage, extenuate or to make something less painful or unpleasantBut the political dangers to be apprehended from the disruption of the English Church were sufficiently serious to palliate the fraud.PallidSpiritlessAfter all this labor I have apparently looked somewhat pallid this week, so Health and Safety recommended a dose of sea breeze.SurreptitiousSecretiveShe completed the assignment in a surreptitious, secret manner.RepugnanceStrong distasteThere was no repugnance to the idea on the queen's part, but Sir Robert Peel thought unfavourably of it as an "empirical" plan, and the question of expense was always mooted as a serious consideration.ImbecilityFollishness, Twaddle, TomfooleryMasqueradeWear a mask or disguiseDiaphanousFine, TransparentPunctiliousCareful, Precise, DemandingHarangueDiatribe, sermonizing discourse

Word4GRE VOCABULARY

WordsMeaningSentencesMaelstromPowerful, Fuss, Flap, PandemoniumIt's a thriving hybrid, a conglomeration of 88 independent cities sprawling over a vast urban Maelstrom.PerniciousExceedingly harmfulIf you don't understand the truly pernicious nature of the National ID card you probably deserve to be living in a police state.BenedictionClosing prayerCertain prayers are said before each benediction, after which he sprinkles the person or thing to be blessed with holy water and, where prescribed, censes them.PlaintiveSorrowfulThe music, vocal and instrumental, is generally of little compass, and in the minor key; it is therefore plaintive, and strikes a European ear as somewhat monotonousReprobateunprincipledWhatever the other reprobates in her family have done, she remains strong and true and bloody brilliant for 80.VicariousOn behalf of, SubstituteI thought we'd finished with the vicarious act of contrition but no such luck.PalimpsestScript, Article, DocumentA palimpsest containing fragments of various orations was recently destroyed by the fire at the Turin library.MagnanimousForgivingHis heart was kind and his affections were strong; he was magnanimous and disinterested, simple and honest.DerelictionAbandonment, DesolationIronically, the extensive legacy of post industrial dereliction also proved to be an asset.MunificenceFree givingDepravityCorruptionThe more freewill Fate allows, the more depravity is created to feed the Dark One.PrecariousCriticalThe slope dropped at a precarious angle, impossible to maneuver unsecured, only a few degrees from the perpendicular.InsinuateHint, SuggestI even insinuate that it is our artificial lighting that is actually rotting the fruit on the tree.FortuitousAccidental, CasualConsequently the information derived from their monuments, in spite of their great abundance, is of a fortuitous character.TurpitudeVileness, Wrongdoing, WickednessI'm also very worried I may have to tick the ' have you ever engaged in moral turpitude?EquanimityCalmness, AplombBut through all situations of his life he preserved his equanimity, his keen interest in science, and his indefatigable zeal for the instruction of others.SalubriousHealthfulThere were many salubrious eating establishments.ViscousThick, StickyThe more viscous descriptions of mineral oils have also been found suitable for use in the Elmore process of ore-concentration by oil.ProscribeDenounce, Condemn, CensureA number of organizations involved in terrorism have been proscribed under the Terrorism Act 2000.LassitudeWeariness, WeaknessInstead of leading other nations with examples of good practices, we are infecting them with our own chronic lassitude.CastigateScold, Rebuke, Reprimand, ReproveBritish Gas, the developer, was roundly castigated for having no interest in the effect of their plans on local communities.Fastidiousmeticulous, Punctiliouis, ScrupulousCalifornia is particularly fastidious in ensuring that drivers can see the current state of a traffic light.QuiescentSomething or someone dormant or in a period of inactivityApparently the parasites may remain quiescent in the blood for years and may cause relapses by fresh sporulation.FelicitousEffectivenessHis arguments were felicitous, and his choice of language was the theme of constant admiration.PhlegmaticIndifferent, UnemotionalA man of placid and even phlegmatic temperament, he lived moderately in all things, and sought worldly prosperity only so far as was necessary to give him leisure for his literary work.IdolatryToo much admirationSamaria is sentenced to destruction for idolatry; and the blow extends to Judah also, which participates in the same guilt CataclysmDisaster, Flood, DelugeThe most important of all the symptoms of the approaching cataclysm was, however, the growing unrest among the peasants.DiscursiveDiscursive(Lengthy, Broad), Rambling(pointless, Wordy)The source of all our knowledge is experience and discursive thought, which manipulates the materials of sense.RabbleCrowdDespite a large proportion of the students being 'older ' we behaved like the unruly student rabble we would usually complain about!FractiousReadily angeredFor some unaccountable reason they had suddenly decided to become fractious.RuptureBurst, Broken, DisruptA knock to a tendon may result in slight bruising or more severe damage possibly even tendon rupture.DissoluteDisapproving, Immoral, DebauchedHe was a dissolute ruler, much addicted to drunkenness, and his reign is chiefly notable for the influence enjoyed by his wife Nur Jahan, "the Light of the World."ImpertinentDisrespectful, Impudent, CheekyThis is impossible; for as the Society had received the papal approval, that of the council would have been impertinent as well as unnecessary.PenitenceSorrow, Repentance, RegretA process which is intended to produce penitence and ultimate restoration cannot at the same time contemplate handing the offender over to eternal punishment.SuppositionPresumption, ConjectureThe method is based on the supposition that the magnetic rotation measures the strain produced in the molecule by an auxochrome, and he arranges the groups in the following order.ProbityIntegrity, UprightnessConcerning the virtues of truth and probity, extremely conflicting opinions have been expressed.ObfuscateTo darken, Muddle, Perplex, CloudThe false witnesses further obfuscated the already convoluted caseButtressSupportSalutaryHealthfulThey at once proceeded to pass through the convocation diet a whole series of salutary measures.CognizanceUnderstandingGrandiloquentPompous, Lofty, High-flownSacrosanctVery Sacred, Pious, Holy, InviolableAlthough not sacrosanct, they had the right of sitting in a curule chair and wore the distinctive toga praetexta.DenigrateDefame, malign, Slander, StigmatizeIn the modern era, indigenous people have seen their land and resources stolen, and their cultures denigrated and undermined.SonorousLoud, It is Sonorous speech, pleasant to hear. PrurientCrude, Indecent, LustfulHe strongly detested the prurient immorality of the schools of Saint-Simon and Fourier.CircuitousNot direct,Circular, RoundaboutPugnaciousAggressiveIt is exceedingly fierce and pugnacious, the males especially fighting with each other for possession of the females.EffronteryArrogance, AudacityAs with all the others, there is the same quietly brazen effrontery in trying to minimize or ignore unanswerable facts.IgnominiousHumiliating, IngloriousThe expedition was an ignominious failure, and many burghers did not hesitate to assign their non-success to the fact that Burgers's views on religious questions were not sound.ConciliateWin over, Placate, ReconcileThe president made no attempt to conciliate them, and in March 1897 a body of government troops suffered a reverse.FallaciousIncorrect, FalseCompendiumDigest, Brief, EpitomeDeprecateTo express earnest disapproval ofIt is true that some philologists deprecate as unscientific the comparison of myths which are found in languages not connected with each other.PrecociousAhead of age in understandingTrained in a hard school, he showed a precocious aptitude for war and government.ReproachDisgrace, Admonish, ReprimandNature fears shame and contempt, but grace is happy to suffer reproach.MetamorphosisTransformationA more or less profound transformation or metamorphosis before the perfect state is attained.IndigentNeedyHe compelled the wealthy to share their riches with the indigent and helpless and to make them their equals in respect of all the comforts and conditions of life.PantomimeMotion as communicationAs the characters unite to try to perform a pantomime, the action becomes manic.RefractoryStubborn or hard to manageThe Convention took measures against the emigres and the refractory priests.ImpermeableImpassable, ImmovableWe have hitherto dealt only with the collection and storage of that portion of the rainfall which flows over the surface of nearly impermeable areas.CupidityStrong desire,Avarice, avidityGossamerLight and delicate, or thinLicentiousUncontrolledA woman or man who has indiscriminate sex without regard to the consequences is an example of someone who might be described as licentious.DigressionDivergence, Deviation, DepartureThe essay, which must be treated as an episode or digression from the direct path of Schopenhauer's development, due to the potent force of Goethe, was written at Dresden, to which he had transferred his abode after the rupture with his mother.Promulgatemake known, PublishAfghan government should immediately revoke a recently promulgated directive restricting the freedom of the press.VitrolicBiting, Acid, BitterGumptionDare, gut, wisdomHe criticized us for ` lacking the gumption ' to find things to do.LugubriousSorrowfulThis lugubrious work of art was set up in white marble after his death in St Paul's cathedral, where it may still be seen.DilettanteAmatuerHis ambitions were high, but he became a dilettante.FlaccidLoose, SlackScurrilousVulgar, ShamelessThe first session was tumultuous; party feeling ran high, and scurrilous and vulgar epithets were bandied to and fro.Litany(n.) a prayer or chant; a long listPeculate(v.) to steal another's money or propertyCaustic(a.) harsh or corrosiveObviously he was annoyed by her caustic tone.Peregrinationthe act of traveling; an excursionBestial showing a lack of human sensibility; like an animalRecantto withdraw a previously held statement of beliefHe was compelled to recant, under strong pressure from Public.Cloistera tranquil and secluded placeThe rest of the exterior is built in bands of red and white, with slightly projecting pilasters along the walls; it has a noble cloister, with two storeys of arcading.Nebulousunclear or vagueSuccess of course is a very nebulous term, sometimes failure is easier to spot than success!Archaisman old expression or practice that is no longer usedPlumbTo measure the depth of something Deferencecourtesy, respectTaran bowed his head in deference to his master.Commiserateto show sympathy forShe wanted to commiserate with the horse's assistant, who seemed as awkward in his role as Jessi felt in hers.Overweeningarrogant; excessiveThe overweening arrogance of the Spaniards soon drove the pope back into the ranks of their enemies.Potentatea powerful ruler; an important personValdemar was now, after the king of England, the most powerful potentate in the north of Europe.Carpingpetty nagging criticismEntreatTo ask earnestlyEarnestly entreats to speak with them; will tell the whole truth.Sacrilegedisrespectful treatment of something sacredSACRILEGE, the violation or profanation of sacred things, a crime of varying scope in different religions.Idiosyncrasyan unusual behavior, mannerism or reaction of a person or group of people.This fact of the idiosyncrasy of national poetry he illustrated with great fulness and richness in the case of Homer, the nature of whose works he was one of the first to elucidate, the Hebrew poets, and the poetry of the north as typified in ' ` Ossian."CavortMeans to jump, dance or play in a happy way.Sylvanpertaining to or characteristic of a forestCoteriea group of people with a common interestThe coterie of ice climbers was beginning to gather on the front porch.Apocryphalof questionable authenticityBut it is also probable that these apocryphal versions are based on a genuine original.Conjureto summonPariahone who is rejected by a social groupConsummatecomplete or fulfilled, or very skillful.He was especially famed for his consummate knowledge of the science of sieges.DuressImprisonment ; the use of threatsCharles thereupon declared his abdication to have been made under duress and therefore null and void.Forbearto stop yourself from doing something.Gamina child who roams the streets

Word5GRE VOCABULARY

WordsMeaningSentencesImmaculateperfectly clean, pureIt all looks so splendid, and the authors assume that the spell check and the grammar check will make things immaculate.Charlatanone who feigns knowledge or abilitywe are suppose to keep our mouth shut about these religious charlatans.Prodigal extravagantly wastefulFoibleMinor flawWe had a lot of fun together despite his little foibles.Debutantea young woman being introduced to societyInure to habituateWe were all of us well inured to the way they were apt to quarrel.Choleric easily angered, irasciblePupils found him a somewhat choleric and exacting master and academic society a great recluse.Emollientsoothing; a soothing substanceIf I could just find an emollient that his skin would tolerate, I'd be a happy bunny.Progencydescendants, offspring; followersPervadeto spread throughoutHe appeared at a time when contempt for intellectual pursuits had begun to pervade society.Fatuousstupid or foolish in a self-satisfied wayA totally fatuous and circular argument from an intellectually bankrupt philosophy.Blandishmentanything designed to flatter or coaxStudents ' Union Financial Regulations expressly forbids the acceptance of gifts, money or other blandishments in the making of any deals.Fleeceto defraud or swindleNeologisma newly invented word or phraseExpostulateto attempt to dissuade somebody from doing somethingThe chief men expostulated against his going forth to fight in person.Martinetsomebody who demands exact conformity to rulesFlaunt to display proudlyDemocrats persuade and do not flaunt power in a military fashion.Platitudea trite(unoriginal) statementThe article was filled with platitudes about the systematic character of the industrial economy.Impugnto criticize or cast doubt onAt the same time he did not impugn the authority of the Church, which he regarded as useful in maintaining external unity.Brook to tolerate something or somebody unpleasantEspouseto support or adoptProgenitoran ancestor in the direct lineIngratiateto seek to please somebody