PSAT/SSAT Vocabulary List #2
(79).webp "PSAT/SSAT Vocabulary List #2 - Quiz")
- 1.
Absolve (v)
- A.
To fuse or cause to grow together
- B.
To grant remission of a sin
- C.
To terminate or abbreviate before its intended or proper end
- D.
To express strong disapproval of
Correct Answer
B. To grant remission of a sinExplanation
The correct answer is "to grant remission of a sin". The word "absolve" is commonly used in a religious context, meaning to forgive or pardon someone for their sins. It implies the act of freeing someone from guilt or blame for their wrongdoing. The other options - to fuse or cause to grow together, to terminate or abbreviate before its intended or proper end, and to express strong disapproval of - do not accurately capture the meaning of "absolve" in this context.Rate this question:
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- 2.
Acrimony (n.)
- A.
A rough and bitter manner
- B.
The quality of being honest and straightforward
- C.
Suitable to your needs
- D.
An insufficient quantity or number
Correct Answer
A. A rough and bitter mannerExplanation
The word "acrimony" refers to a rough and bitter manner. It implies a sense of hostility, animosity, or resentment in someone's behavior or attitude. It denotes a lack of harmony or pleasantness in interactions, often characterized by harsh words, anger, or resentment.Rate this question:
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- 3.
Amenable (adj.)
- A.
Heedful of potential consequences
- B.
Characterized by propriety and dignity and good taste
- C.
Disposed or willing to comply
- D.
Repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuse
Correct Answer
C. Disposed or willing to complyExplanation
The word "amenable" means being disposed or willing to comply. This means that someone who is amenable is open to following instructions, suggestions, or requests. They are willing to cooperate and comply with what is asked of them.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Banal (adj.)
- A.
A rough and bitter manner
- B.
Repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuse
- C.
Courteous regard for people's feelings
- D.
Disposed or willing to comply
Correct Answer
B. Repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuseExplanation
The correct answer is "repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuse". This means that something is banal when it becomes dull or unoriginal due to being said or done too many times. It suggests that the subject lacks freshness or creativity because it has become overly familiar or common.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Candor (adj.)
- A.
Instructive, especially excessively
- B.
Disposed or willing to comply
- C.
Repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuse
- D.
The quality of being honest and straightforward
Correct Answer
D. The quality of being honest and straightforwardExplanation
The word "candor" refers to the quality of being honest and straightforward. It implies that a person is open and sincere in their communication, without any intention of hiding the truth or being deceptive. Candor is often valued in relationships and professional settings as it fosters trust and transparency.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Caricature (n.)
- A.
Lack of agreement or harmony
- B.
A comedy characterized by broad satire
- C.
A representation of a person exaggerated for comic effect
- D.
An insufficient quantity or number
Correct Answer
C. A representation of a person exaggerated for comic effectExplanation
The correct answer is "a representation of a person exaggerated for comic effect." A caricature is a form of art or drawing that exaggerates certain features or characteristics of a person in order to create a humorous or satirical effect. It is often used to highlight and emphasize certain traits or qualities of the individual in a comical way.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Circumspect (adj.)
- A.
Heedful of potential consequences
- B.
Easily handled or managed
- C.
Showing modest reserve
- D.
Anything short-lived, as an insect that lives only for a day
Correct Answer
A. Heedful of potential consequencesExplanation
The word "circumspect" means being cautious and careful, considering the potential consequences of one's actions. It implies being mindful and aware of the possible outcomes before making decisions or taking actions. This word suggests a sense of thoughtfulness and prudence in order to avoid any negative or harmful outcomes.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Coalesce (v.)
- A.
To grant remission of a sin
- B.
To give evidence for
- C.
To make weak
- D.
To fuse or cause to grow together
Correct Answer
D. To fuse or cause to grow togetherExplanation
The correct answer is "to fuse or cause to grow together." Coalesce means to combine or merge separate elements into one entity or to cause separate parts to grow together and become one. In this context, it refers to the act of fusing or causing things to grow together.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Corroborate (v.)
- A.
To express a negative opinion of
- B.
To give evidence for
- C.
To reduce in worth or character, usually verbally
- D.
To pronounce not guilty of criminal charges
Correct Answer
B. To give evidence forExplanation
The word "corroborate" means to give evidence for. When someone corroborates something, they provide additional evidence or support for a statement or claim. This can strengthen the credibility or validity of the information being presented.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Congenial (adj.)
- A.
The quality of being honest and straightforward
- B.
Selecting what seems best of various styles or ideas
- C.
Suitable to your needs
- D.
Heedful of potential consequences
Correct Answer
C. Suitable to your needsExplanation
The word "congenial" means suitable or compatible with one's needs or preferences. Therefore, the correct answer is "suitable to your needs."Rate this question:
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- 11.
Curtail (v.)
- A.
To terminate or abbreviate before its intended or proper end
- B.
To fuse or cause to grow together
- C.
To express strong disapproval of
- D.
To give evidence for
Correct Answer
A. To terminate or abbreviate before its intended or proper endExplanation
The correct answer is "to terminate or abbreviate before its intended or proper end." This means that when something is curtailed, it is cut short or ended before it was supposed to be. This could apply to various situations where something is stopped prematurely, such as a project, a performance, or a conversation.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Dearth (n.)
- A.
The act of treating with contempt
- B.
A representation of a person exaggerated for comic effect
- C.
A compound obtained from another compound
- D.
An insufficient quantity or number
Correct Answer
D. An insufficient quantity or numberExplanation
The word "dearth" refers to an insufficient quantity or number of something. This means that there is not enough of a particular thing, whether it be food, resources, or any other item. It does not relate to treating with contempt, a representation for comic effect, or a compound obtained from another compound.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Debilitate (v.)
- A.
To make weak
- B.
To choose and follow
- C.
To cause to separate and go in different directions
- D.
To terminate or abbreviate before its intended or proper end
Correct Answer
A. To make weakExplanation
The word "debilitate" means to make weak. This means that it causes someone or something to become less strong or less effective. So, the correct answer is "to make weak".Rate this question:
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- 14.
Decorous (adj.)
- A.
Containing or based on incorrect reasoning
- B.
Suitable to your needs
- C.
Giving careful attention to detail
- D.
Characterized by propriety and dignity and good taste
Correct Answer
D. Characterized by propriety and dignity and good tasteExplanation
The correct answer for the word "decorous" is "characterized by propriety and dignity and good taste." This means that something that is decorous is appropriate, respectable, and displays good judgment and refinement. It suggests that the behavior or appearance is in accordance with accepted social norms and is done with elegance and grace.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Decry (v.)
- A.
To grant remission of a sin
- B.
To express strong disapproval of
- C.
Fuse or cause to grow together
- D.
To make weak
Correct Answer
B. To express strong disapproval ofExplanation
The word "decry" means to express strong disapproval of something. This means that when someone "decries" something, they are openly and strongly expressing their disapproval or criticism towards it.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Deference (adj.)
- A.
Courteous regard for people's feelings
- B.
Attempting to win favor by flattery
- C.
A rough and bitter manner
- D.
Showing inappropriate levity
Correct Answer
A. Courteous regard for people's feelingsExplanation
Deference refers to showing courteous regard for people's feelings. This means being respectful, considerate, and mindful of how one's actions and words may impact others. It involves treating others with kindness, empathy, and understanding, and taking their emotions into account. Deference is about showing respect and acknowledging the importance of others' feelings and opinions.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Demean (v.)
- A.
To reduce in worth or character, usually verbally
- B.
To cause to separate and go in different directions
- C.
To make weak
- D.
To terminate or abbreviate before its intended or proper end
Correct Answer
A. To reduce in worth or character, usually verballyExplanation
The word "demean" means to reduce someone or something in worth or character, usually by using verbal means. This implies that through words or actions, one is belittling or degrading someone or something, causing them to appear less valuable or respectable.Rate this question:
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- 18.
Deplore (v.)
- A.
To make weak
- B.
To choose and follow
- C.
To express strong disapproval of
- D.
To pronounce not guilty of criminal charges
Correct Answer
C. To express strong disapproval ofExplanation
The word "deplore" means to express strong disapproval of something. This means that when someone deplores something, they strongly disapprove of it and express their disapproval.Rate this question:
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- 19.
Derision (n.)
- A.
A representation of a person exaggerated for comic effect
- B.
The act of treating with contempt
- C.
Lack of agreement or harmony
- D.
An insufficient quantity or number
Correct Answer
B. The act of treating with contemptExplanation
Derision refers to the act of treating someone or something with contempt. This means that it involves mocking, ridiculing, or showing disdain towards a person or thing. It is a form of disrespect or scornful behavior towards someone or something, often done to belittle or humiliate them.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Derivative (n.)
- A.
A comedy characterized by broad satire
- B.
Courteous regard for people's feelings
- C.
A representation of a person exaggerated for comic effect
- D.
A compound obtained from another compound
Correct Answer
D. A compound obtained from another compoundExplanation
The correct answer is "a compound obtained from another compound." This is because a derivative, in chemistry, refers to a compound that is derived or obtained from another compound through a chemical reaction or process. It is a term commonly used in organic chemistry to describe the products formed when a functional group is added or substituted on a parent compound.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Didactic (adj.)
- A.
Instructive, especially excessively
- B.
Repeated too often; overfamiliar through overuse
- C.
Disposed or willing to comply
- D.
Heedful of potential consequences
Correct Answer
A. Instructive, especially excessivelyExplanation
The word "didactic" means instructive, especially excessively. This means that something is intended to teach or educate, but in an excessive or overly forceful manner. It implies that the instruction may be repetitive or overused.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Diffident (adj.)
- A.
Suitable to your needs
- B.
Easily handled or managed
- C.
Characterized by propriety and dignity and good taste
- D.
Showing modest reserve
Correct Answer
D. Showing modest reserveExplanation
The word "diffident" means lacking self-confidence or being hesitant in one's abilities. When someone shows modest reserve, they are displaying a level of shyness or restraint in their actions or words. This fits the definition of "diffident" as it implies a lack of assertiveness or self-assuredness. Therefore, the answer "showing modest reserve" is the most appropriate choice that aligns with the meaning of the word "diffident".Rate this question:
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- 23.
Discord (n.)
- A.
A lack of agreement or harmony
- B.
An insufficient quantity or number
- C.
A rough and bitter manner
- D.
A compound obtained from another compound
Correct Answer
A. A lack of agreement or harmonyExplanation
The word "discord" refers to a lack of agreement or harmony. It signifies a state of disagreement or conflict where there is a lack of unity or agreement among individuals or groups. This can be in terms of opinions, ideas, or actions. It implies a sense of disharmony or dissonance, where there is a lack of understanding, cooperation, or consensus.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Disparage (v.)
- A.
To pronounce not guilty of criminal charges
- B.
To express a negative opinion of
- C.
To grant remission of a sin
- D.
To terminate or abbreviate before its intended or proper end
Correct Answer
B. To express a negative opinion ofExplanation
The word "disparage" means to express a negative opinion of someone or something. It does not refer to pronouncing someone not guilty of criminal charges, granting remission of a sin, or terminating something before its intended end. Therefore, the correct answer is "to express a negative opinion of."Rate this question:
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- 25.
Dissipate (v.)
- A.
To express strong disapproval of
- B.
To choose and follow
- C.
To cause to separate and go in different directions
- D.
To pronounce not guilty of criminal charges
Correct Answer
C. To cause to separate and go in different directionsExplanation
The correct answer is "to cause to separate and go in different directions". Dissipate means to scatter or disperse, causing something to separate and move in different directions. This explanation aligns with the definition provided.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Docile (adj.)
- A.
A rough and bitter manner
- B.
Anything short-lived, as an insect that lives only for a day
- C.
Giving careful attention to detail
- D.
Easily handled or managed
Correct Answer
D. Easily handled or managedExplanation
The word "docile" means easily handled or managed. This means that something or someone who is docile is compliant, submissive, and easy to control or work with. They are not resistant or difficult to handle.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Eclectic (adj.)
- A.
Containing or based on incorrect reasoning
- B.
Attempting to win favor by flattery
- C.
Giving careful attention to detail
- D.
Selecting what seems best of various styles or ideas
Correct Answer
D. Selecting what seems best of various styles or ideasExplanation
The correct answer is "selecting what seems best of various styles or ideas." This is because the word "eclectic" refers to the act of choosing or combining elements from different sources or styles. It implies a selection process where the best or most suitable options are chosen from a range of possibilities. The other options, such as "containing or based on incorrect reasoning," "attempting to win favor by flattery," and "giving careful attention to detail," do not accurately capture the meaning of the word "eclectic."Rate this question:
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- 28.
Ephemeral (adj.)
- A.
Anything short-lived, as an insect that lives only for a day
- B.
Showing inappropriate levity
- C.
Attempting to win favor by flattery
- D.
Containing or based on incorrect reasoning
Correct Answer
A. Anything short-lived, as an insect that lives only for a dayExplanation
The correct answer is "anything short-lived, as an insect that lives only for a day." The word "ephemeral" is used to describe something that lasts for a very short period of time. In this context, it is compared to an insect that has a lifespan of only one day, emphasizing the brevity and transience of the thing being described.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Espouse (v.)
- A.
To express a negative opinion of
- B.
To choose and follow
- C.
To cause to separate and go in different directions
- D.
To pronounce not guilty of criminal charges
Correct Answer
B. To choose and followExplanation
The correct answer is "to choose and follow". This is because the word "espouse" means to adopt or support a particular belief, cause, or idea. It implies a deliberate choice to follow and advocate for something.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Exonerate (v.)
- A.
To express strong disapproval of
- B.
To terminate or abbreviate before its intended or proper end
- C.
To make weak
- D.
To pronounce not guilty of criminal charges
Correct Answer
D. To pronounce not guilty of criminal chargesExplanation
The correct answer is "to pronounce not guilty of criminal charges." This is the only option that accurately defines the term "exonerate." When someone is exonerated, it means they are declared not guilty of the criminal charges brought against them.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Fallacious (adj.)
- A.
Selecting what seems best of various styles or ideas
- B.
Showing modest reserve
- C.
Containing or based on incorrect reasoning
- D.
Giving careful attention to detail
Correct Answer
C. Containing or based on incorrect reasoningExplanation
The word "fallacious" refers to something that is based on incorrect reasoning. This means that the argument or statement is flawed and does not follow logical or rational thinking. It implies that the reasoning used is deceptive or misleading, leading to incorrect conclusions.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Farce (n.)
- A.
A comedy characterized by broad satire
- B.
An insufficient quantity or number
- C.
A lack of agreement or harmony
- D.
A compound obtained from another compound
Correct Answer
A. A comedy characterized by broad satireExplanation
Farce is a type of comedy that is known for its use of exaggerated and ridiculous situations, often involving mistaken identities, misunderstandings, and slapstick humor. It relies heavily on satire, which is the use of humor, irony, or ridicule to expose and criticize human foolishness or vices. In a farce, the humor is often derived from the absurdity of the situations and the exaggerated actions and reactions of the characters. Therefore, the correct answer is "a comedy characterized by broad satire."Rate this question:
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- 33.
Fastidious (adj.)
- A.
Containing or based on incorrect reasoning
- B.
Attempting to win favor by flattery
- C.
Giving careful attention to detail
- D.
Showing inappropriate levity
Correct Answer
C. Giving careful attention to detailExplanation
The correct answer is "giving careful attention to detail." This is because the word "fastidious" means being very attentive to and concerned about accuracy and detail. It implies being meticulous, thorough, and precise in one's work or actions. Therefore, the option that best captures this meaning is "giving careful attention to detail."Rate this question:
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- 34.
Fawning (adj.)
- A.
Instructive, especially excessively
- B.
Courteous regard for people's feelings
- C.
Attempting to win favor by flattery
- D.
Characterized by propriety and dignity and good taste
Correct Answer
C. Attempting to win favor by flatteryExplanation
Fawning, as an adjective, refers to the act of attempting to win favor by flattery. This means that someone who is fawning is excessively flattering and ingratiating in order to gain someone's favor or approval. They may use excessive compliments or praise to try to win the person over. This behavior is often seen as insincere and manipulative, as the person is not genuinely interested in the individual but rather in gaining something from them.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Flippant (adj.)
- A.
Suitable to your needs
- B.
Showing inappropriate levity
- C.
Anything short-lived, as an insect that lives only for a day
- D.
Giving careful attention to detail
Correct Answer
B. Showing inappropriate levityExplanation
The word "flippant" means showing inappropriate levity. This means that someone is being disrespectful or not taking a situation seriously. The other options, such as "suitable to your needs" or "giving careful attention to detail," do not convey the same meaning as "flippant." Therefore, the correct answer is "showing inappropriate levity."Rate this question:
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