ISEE Verbal Exercises --all Synonyms

The word "vivacious" means full of life and energy. It is often used to describe someone who is lively, animated, and enthusiastic. This aligns with the given answer choice "lively". "Nimble" means quick and agile, which is not directly related to the meaning of "vivacious". "Easily amused" means easily entertained, which is not synonymous with being lively. "Direct" means straightforward and honest, which is not a suitable synonym for "vivacious". Therefore, the correct answer is "lively".

The word "repress" means to hold back or restrain something, typically emotions or desires. In this context, the word "prevent" is the closest in meaning to "repress" as it also implies stopping or hindering something from happening. Therefore, "prevent" is the correct answer as it aligns with the meaning of "repress" in the given context.

The word "transmit" means to send or transfer something from one place to another. Among the given options, "send" is the most synonymous with "transmit" as it also refers to the act of transferring something to another location or person. Therefore, "send" is the correct answer.

Indifference is the correct answer because apathy refers to a lack of interest, concern, or emotion towards something. It is characterized by a general sense of indifference or disinterest. Involvement, compassion, and contempt all suggest some level of emotion or engagement, which is opposite to the concept of apathy. Therefore, indifference best captures the meaning of apathy in this context.

The word "obstacle" refers to something that blocks or hinders progress. The other words in the list, such as "path," "great distance," and "ditch," are all related to obstacles in some way, but "impediment" specifically means a hindrance or obstruction. Therefore, "impediment" is the best fit for the given list of words.

The word "redundant" means unnecessary or excessive. The word "superfluous" also means unnecessary or surplus. Therefore, the correct answer is "superfluous" because it is a synonym of "redundant" and fits the context of the question.

Exaggeration is the correct answer because hyperbole refers to the use of exaggerated statements or claims that are not meant to be taken literally. Isolation, identification, and sharp curve do not align with the definition of hyperbole, which is why they are not the correct answers.

The word "capture" means to catch or seize something or someone. The word "secure" means to make something safe or free from danger. In this context, "secure" is the opposite of "lose" and "halt" as it implies keeping something safe and protected. It is not related to "bargain" which means to negotiate or make a deal. Therefore, "secure" is the correct answer as it is the most appropriate opposite of "capture".

The word "befriend" means to establish a friendly or supportive relationship with someone. Among the given options, "connect with" is the closest in meaning to "befriend". It implies forming a connection or bond with someone, indicating a positive and friendly interaction. "Sever ties" means to end a relationship or connection, which is the opposite of what "befriend" means. "Close down" refers to shutting something down or ending its operations, which is unrelated to forming friendships. "Enjoy" means to take pleasure in something, which is not directly related to establishing connections with others.

The words "speak," "monologue," and "sermon" all refer to one person expressing their thoughts or ideas. However, the word "conversation" implies a two-way exchange of ideas between two or more people. Therefore, "conversation" is the most appropriate word choice as it highlights the interactive nature of a dialogue.

The word "ban" means to officially or legally prohibit something. It implies a strong restriction or prohibition on a particular action or behavior. The other options, "remove," "impose," and "specify," do not convey the same meaning as "ban" and do not suggest a complete prohibition. Therefore, "forbid" is the most suitable synonym for "ban" among the given options.

The word "align" means to arrange or position something in a straight line or in the correct position. Similarly, the word "straighten" means to make something straight or to put it in proper alignment. Therefore, "straighten" is the most suitable word that can be used as a synonym for "align".

The word "feeble" means weak or lacking in strength. The word "ineffective" means not producing the desired or intended result. Both words convey a similar meaning of being weak or not able to perform well. Therefore, "ineffective" is the correct answer as it is the most appropriate synonym for "feeble".

The word "sluggish" means slow or lacking energy. Therefore, the correct answer is "slow" as it is the closest synonym to "sluggish". The other options, such as "aggressive", "inconsiderate", and "wicked", do not convey the same meaning as "sluggish".

The word "lampoon" refers to a form of humor that uses irony, sarcasm, or ridicule to criticize or mock someone or something. It is often seen in written or spoken form, such as articles or speeches. The options "article," "biography," and "journey" do not accurately describe this type of humor. However, "satire" is the correct answer as it specifically refers to the use of humor, irony, or exaggeration to expose and criticize people's foolishness or vices, which aligns with the definition of "lampoon."

Dissonance refers to a lack of harmony or a combination of sounds that are harsh or unpleasant to the ear. In contrast, melody, harmony, and music all imply a pleasing arrangement of sounds. Therefore, dissonance is the correct answer as it is the opposite of what the other options represent.

The word "congenital" refers to a condition or trait that is present from birth. The term "inborn" is synonymous with congenital, as it signifies something that is inherent or existing from the time of birth. Therefore, "inborn" is the correct answer as it aligns with the meaning of "congenital."

The word "automatic" means happening or working without deliberate intention or control. Similarly, the word "involuntary" means done without conscious control or intention. Therefore, "involuntary" is the correct answer as it is the most closely related synonym to "automatic" among the given options.

The given answer "ability" is the most appropriate choice because the question mentions terms like "difficulty," "reason," and "mistake," which all relate to one's capability or skill to handle challenges or tasks. The word "ability" encompasses the idea of being competent or proficient in a particular area, making it the best fit among the given options.

A eulogy is a speech or piece of writing that praises and pays tribute to someone who has died. It is a way to honor and remember their life and accomplishments. Therefore, the word "tribute" is the most appropriate choice as it directly relates to the act of giving praise and recognition to someone. The other options, such as "attack," "complement," and "encouragement," do not convey the same meaning and are not suitable in the context of a eulogy.

The word "omniscient" means having complete or unlimited knowledge. Out of the given options, "knowledgeable" is the closest in meaning to "omniscient". It implies that someone who is knowledgeable has a deep understanding and extensive knowledge about various subjects. Therefore, "knowledgeable" is the correct answer.

The word "popular" refers to something that is liked or admired by many people. The word "accepted" also means that something is approved or acknowledged by others. In this context, it can be understood that being popular often leads to being accepted by others.

The word "convoluted" means complicated or intricate. "Twisted" is a synonym of "convoluted" as it implies a complex or intricate nature. Therefore, "twisted" is the correct answer that best aligns with the meaning of "convoluted".

The word "trepidation" refers to a feeling of fear or anxiety about something that is going to happen. It is a state of apprehension or unease. Out of the given options, "fear" is the most appropriate synonym for trepidation as it accurately captures the meaning of the word. "Boldness" and "rashness" imply the opposite of fear, while "irony" is unrelated to the concept of fear. Therefore, "fear" is the correct answer.

The word "direct" is the correct answer because it means straightforward or without any detours or complications. It is the opposite of "confusing" and "blatant," which both imply a lack of clarity or directness. "Subterranean" is unrelated to the meaning of "succinct" and does not fit the context.

The word "crafty" is often used to describe someone who is cunning, clever, and skilled at deceiving others. Similarly, the word "sly" also carries the connotation of being cunning and deceitful. Therefore, "sly" is an appropriate synonym for "crafty" as it captures the essence of the original word.

The word "flowing" best fits with the given list of words because it is the only word that directly relates to the concept of fluency. When something is fluent, it means it is smooth, continuous, and without interruptions. Similarly, "flowing" implies a similar sense of smoothness and continuity, making it the most appropriate choice among the given options.

The word "identical" means exactly the same or indistinguishable. The word "duplicate" also means an exact copy or replica of something. Therefore, "duplicate" is the correct answer as it is a synonym of "identical".

The word "dismantle" means to take apart or break down something, usually a structure or object. "Break down" is the closest synonym to "dismantle" among the given options. It implies the process of separating or disassembling components, resulting in the destruction or removal of the whole. Therefore, "break down" is the correct answer.

A wharf is a structure built on the shore or alongside a body of water, typically used for loading and unloading ships. A dock is a similar structure used for the same purpose. Therefore, dock is the correct answer as it is a synonym for wharf and the other options do not accurately describe a wharf.

The word "primary" is the correct answer because it is the only word in the list that is directly related to the word "capital". "Primary" means first or most important, and in the context of "capital", it could refer to the main city or the main source of financial resources. The other words in the list - "regressive", "capable", and "central" - do not have a direct connection to the word "capital".

"Stick with" means to continue doing or supporting something despite difficulties or challenges. It implies perseverance and commitment. Therefore, "stick with" is the most appropriate synonym for "endure" as it captures the idea of enduring or persisting through tough times or situations.

The word "transgress" means to go beyond or break a rule or boundary. Among the given options, "violate" is the word that closely relates to the meaning of "transgress" as it also means to break or disregard a rule or law. Therefore, "violate" is the correct answer.

The word "mutilate" is the correct answer because it is a synonym of "mangle." Both words refer to the act of severely damaging or disfiguring something or someone. The other options, "shine," "wear," and "torture," do not have the same meaning as "mangle" and are therefore incorrect.

The word "assess" means to evaluate or analyze something. Among the given options, "size up" is the closest in meaning to "assess." When we "size up" something, we are examining it to determine its qualities, characteristics, or overall worth. Therefore, "size up" is the correct answer as it best captures the meaning of "assess."

The word "ghastly" means extremely unpleasant or shocking, often to the point of causing fear or disgust. The word "horrible" has a similar meaning, describing something that is extremely unpleasant or causing horror. Therefore, "horrible" is the correct answer as it is a synonym of "ghastly" and fits the context of the word.

Censure refers to the expression of strong disapproval or criticism. It implies a negative judgment or condemnation of someone or something. Therefore, the correct answer is disapproval, as it aligns with the meaning of censure.

The word "established" aligns with the principle of leadership, as a leader is someone who has established themselves as a figure of authority and influence. It suggests that the leader has a proven track record and is recognized as a knowledgeable and experienced individual. This principle implies that a leader must have a solid foundation and be well-established in their field or area of expertise. Therefore, "established" is the correct answer.

The word "faithful" means being loyal, reliable, and steadfast. Similarly, "devoted" also conveys the idea of being loyal and committed to someone or something. Therefore, "devoted" is the correct answer as it is the most synonymous with "faithful" among the given options.

The word "veto" means to reject or prohibit something. It is often used in the context of a person in a position of authority denying or refusing to approve a decision or proposal. Therefore, the correct answer is "reject."