PSAT Vocab Quiz 1
(132).jpg "PSAT Vocab Quiz 1 - Quiz")
Are your Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Tests creeping up on you? Now might be a good time to brush up on some of the vocabulary you’re likely to come across when you sit the exams. How much do you know already?
- 1.
Ardent
- A.
Standoffish, uninvolved, keeping one’s distance
- B.
Extremely hopeless or wretched, bottomless
- C.
An award of honor
- D.
Passionate
- E.
To make better or more tolerable
Correct Answer
D. PassionateExplanation
Passionate means having or showing strong emotions or intense feelings towards something or someone. It implies a deep enthusiasm, excitement, or fervor. This word is the opposite of standoffish, uninvolved, or keeping one's distance. It is also different from being extremely hopeless or wretched. While an award of honor and making something better or more tolerable are unrelated to the word "passionate."Rate this question:
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- 2.
Appropriate
- A.
Bitter, Sour, Severe
- B.
To distribute, assign, or allot
- C.
To take without permission; to set aside for a particular use
- D.
Difficult to understand
- E.
The study of human cultures
Correct Answer
C. To take without permission; to set aside for a particular useExplanation
The correct answer is "To take without permission; to set aside for a particular use." This is because the word "appropriate" can mean to take something without permission or to set something aside for a specific purpose. It does not align with the other definitions provided, such as bitter, sour, severe, to distribute, assign, or allot, difficult to understand, or the study of human cultures. Therefore, the correct answer is the one that accurately reflects the meaning of "appropriate."Rate this question:
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- 3.
Apotheosis
- A.
Hermit-like; practicing self-denial
- B.
Elevation to divine status; the perfect example of something
- C.
Easy to talk to; friendly
- D.
Subordinate; providing assistance
- E.
To determine with certainty; to find out definitely
Correct Answer
B. Elevation to divine status; the perfect example of somethingExplanation
The word "apotheosis" refers to the act of elevating someone or something to divine status, or considering them as the perfect example of something. It suggests a state of greatness or perfection, often associated with gods or idealized figures. This meaning is reflected in the given answer choice, which accurately captures the essence of the word.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Attrition
- A.
Gradual wearing away; a natural or expected decrease in size or number
- B.
Protection, support; sponsorship
- C.
Kind, helpful, generous; like a nice uncle
- D.
An aberration, deviation, or irregularity
- E.
To determine with certainty; to find out definitely
Correct Answer
A. Gradual wearing away; a natural or expected decrease in size or numberExplanation
The correct answer is "Gradual wearing away; a natural or expected decrease in size or number." This is because attrition refers to the gradual reduction or wearing away of something, such as a workforce or customer base, over time. It implies a natural or expected decrease in size or number, rather than a sudden or unexpected event.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Acumen
- A.
Collection of things mixed together; the sum total
- B.
Keenness of judgment; mental sharpness
- C.
To abolish, repeal, or nullify
- D.
Hermit-like; practicing self-denial
- E.
To take without permission; to set aside for a particular use
Correct Answer
B. Keenness of judgment; mental sharpnessExplanation
The word "acumen" refers to keenness of judgment and mental sharpness. It suggests the ability to make quick and accurate decisions or assessments. This is the best fit among the given options as the other choices do not capture the meaning of acumen. A collection of things mixed together or the sum total does not relate to judgment or sharpness. To abolish, repeal, or nullify does not involve judgment or sharpness either. Being hermit-like or practicing self-denial also does not pertain to mental sharpness. Therefore, the correct answer is "Keenness of judgment; mental sharpness."Rate this question:
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- 6.
Ancillary
- A.
To make void, usually refers to marriage
- B.
Hardworking, diligent, busy
- C.
Subordinate; providing assistance
- D.
An aberration, deviation, or irregularity
- E.
Difficult to understand
Correct Answer
C. Subordinate; providing assistanceExplanation
The word "ancillary" refers to something that is subordinate or providing assistance. This means that it is not the main thing or the primary focus, but rather a supporting element. In the context of the given options, "subordinate; providing assistance" is the best fit for the definition of "ancillary".Rate this question:
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- 7.
Avarice
- A.
To take without permission; to set aside for a particular use
- B.
One who deserts his or her professed principles or faith
- C.
Easy to talk to; friendly
- D.
Greed
- E.
Bitter, Sour, Severe
Correct Answer
D. GreedExplanation
The correct answer is "Greed". Avarice refers to an intense desire for wealth or possessions, often accompanied by a willingness to do anything to obtain them. It is synonymous with greed, which is the insatiable desire for more than what is necessary or deserved. Avarice implies a selfish and excessive longing for material gain, often at the expense of others. It is considered a negative trait as it can lead to unethical behavior and a disregard for the well-being of others.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Ascetic
- A.
Something or someone loathed or detested
- B.
The study of human cultures
- C.
Hermit-like; practicing self-denial
- D.
An award of honor
- E.
Subordinate; providing assistance
Correct Answer
C. Hermit-like; practicing self-denialExplanation
The word "ascetic" refers to someone who practices self-denial and lives a hermit-like lifestyle. This means that they lead a simple and austere life, often renouncing material possessions and worldly pleasures. They focus on spiritual or religious pursuits and prioritize self-discipline and self-control. This explanation aligns with the given answer choice "Hermit-like; practicing self-denial".Rate this question:
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- 9.
Accolade
- A.
Easy to talk to; friendly
- B.
Greed
- C.
Elevation to divine status; the perfect example of something
- D.
Something or someone loathed or detested
- E.
An award of honor
Correct Answer
E. An award of honorExplanation
Accolade is defined as an award of honor. It is a recognition or praise given to someone for their achievements or contributions. This can be in the form of a certificate, trophy, or any other symbol of honor. The word "accolade" is often used to describe prestigious awards or distinctions that are highly regarded in a particular field or industry. It signifies a high level of accomplishment and is seen as a mark of excellence.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Affable
- A.
To permit or allow; to enable
- B.
Easy to talk to; friendly
- C.
To determine with certainty; to find out definitely
- D.
Standoffish, uninvolved, keeping one’s distance
- E.
Kind, helpful, generous; like a nice uncle
Correct Answer
B. Easy to talk to; friendlyExplanation
The word "affable" is defined as being easy to talk to and friendly. This means that someone who is affable is approachable and pleasant to interact with. They are likely to engage in conversation and make others feel comfortable in their presence. This explanation matches the given answer of "Easy to talk to; friendly."Rate this question:
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- 11.
Assuage
- A.
Collection of things mixed together; the sum total
- B.
Bitter, Sour, Severe
- C.
To make void, usually refers to marriage
- D.
To soothe, pacify, or relieve
- E.
Something or someone loathed or detested
Correct Answer
D. To soothe, pacify, or relieveExplanation
The word "assuage" means to soothe, pacify, or relieve. This means that it is used to describe the action of making something less intense or severe, or to ease someone's discomfort or pain. It is often used in the context of emotions or physical sensations, suggesting the idea of providing comfort or relief.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Apostate
- A.
An instrument that measures atmospheric pressure
- B.
To permit or allow; to enable
- C.
Easy to talk to; friendly
- D.
Greed
- E.
One who deserts his or her professed principles or faith
Correct Answer
E. One who deserts his or her professed principles or faithExplanation
The correct answer is "One who deserts his or her professed principles or faith." This is because an apostate is someone who abandons or renounces their religious or political beliefs, often in favor of a different belief system or ideology. The term is commonly used to describe someone who was once a member of a particular religion or organization but has since left or rejected it.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Acerbic
- A.
Subordinate; providing assistance
- B.
Bitter, Sour, Severe
- C.
The study of human cultures
- D.
Passionate
- E.
Elevation to divine status; the perfect example of something
Correct Answer
B. Bitter, Sour, SevereExplanation
The word "acerbic" is an adjective that describes something as bitter, sour, or severe. It is often used to describe a person's tone or attitude, suggesting that they are sharp, critical, or sarcastic in their speech. This word does not have any association with being subordinate or providing assistance, the study of human cultures, or elevation to divine status.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Anthropology
- A.
The study of human cultures
- B.
Something or someone loathed or detested
- C.
Protection, support; sponsorship
- D.
Extremely hopeless or wretched, bottomless
- E.
Hermit-like; practicing self-denial
Correct Answer
A. The study of human culturesExplanation
The correct answer is "The study of human cultures." Anthropology is a field of study that focuses on understanding human cultures, including their social structures, beliefs, customs, and behaviors. It involves examining various aspects of human life, such as language, art, religion, and technology, in order to gain insights into the diversity and complexity of human societies throughout history and across different geographical regions. Through anthropological research and analysis, scholars aim to uncover universal patterns, as well as unique cultural practices, and contribute to a deeper understanding of what it means to be human.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Allocate
- A.
An instrument that measures atmospheric pressure
- B.
To soothe, pacify, or relieve
- C.
A storehouse of weapons
- D.
To abolish, repeal, or nullify
- E.
To distribute, assign, or allot
Correct Answer
E. To distribute, assign, or allotExplanation
The correct answer is "To distribute, assign, or allot." This is because the word "allocate" means to distribute or assign something, usually resources or tasks, to different individuals or groups. It involves dividing or allotting something in a planned or organized manner.Rate this question:
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- 16.
Auspices
- A.
To make better or more tolerable
- B.
To permit or allow; to enable
- C.
Protection, support; sponsorship
- D.
To make better or more tolerable
- E.
Gradual wearing away; a natural or expected decrease in size or number
Correct Answer
C. Protection, support; sponsorshipExplanation
The correct answer is "Protection, support; sponsorship." Auspices refers to the act of providing protection, support, or sponsorship to someone or something. It implies that someone is taking care of or overseeing a particular situation or event. It does not mean "to make better or more tolerable" or "to permit or allow; to enable." Additionally, it is not related to the concept of gradual wearing away or a decrease in size or number.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Aloof
- A.
Standoffish, uninvolved, keeping one’s distance
- B.
Something or someone loathed or detested
- C.
Keenness of judgment; mental sharpness
- D.
An aberration, deviation, or irregularity
- E.
To take without permission; to set aside for a particular use
Correct Answer
A. Standoffish, uninvolved, keeping one’s distanceExplanation
The word "aloof" means to be standoffish, uninvolved, and to keep one's distance. This suggests that someone who is aloof is not actively engaging with others or showing interest in their activities. They may prefer to stay separate or detached from social interactions. This definition aligns with the given answer choice of "standoffish, uninvolved, keeping one's distance."Rate this question:
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- 18.
Augury
- A.
To distribute, assign, or allot
- B.
An instrument that measures atmospheric pressure
- C.
Hardworking, diligent, busy
- D.
An omen, especially a good omen
- E.
An award of honor
Correct Answer
D. An omen, especially a good omenExplanation
Augury refers to the practice of predicting the future or interpreting omens. It is often associated with the belief that certain events or signs can foretell good or bad luck. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is "An omen, especially a good omen."Rate this question:
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- 19.
Arsenal
- A.
Protection, support; sponsorship
- B.
To make better or more tolerable
- C.
A storehouse of weapons
- D.
To permit or allow; to enable
- E.
Bitter, Sour, Severe
Correct Answer
C. A storehouse of weaponsExplanation
The correct answer is "A storehouse of weapons." This answer is derived from the definition of the word "arsenal," which refers to a place where weapons and military equipment are stored or produced. It is a noun that specifically relates to the storage of weapons, making it the most fitting choice among the given options.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Archetype
- A.
Extremely hopeless or wretched, bottomless
- B.
Something or someone loathed or detested
- C.
Greed
- D.
An original model or pattern
- E.
To soothe, pacify, or relieve
Correct Answer
D. An original model or patternExplanation
The correct answer is "An original model or pattern". This is because an archetype refers to a typical example or a universally recognized symbol, which serves as a model or pattern for other things. It represents the original or fundamental form of something, often used in literature or storytelling to represent a certain character, theme, or idea.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Abrogate
- A.
To abolish, repeal, or nullify
- B.
The study of human cultures
- C.
Passionate
- D.
To determine with certainty; to find out definitely
- E.
An aberration, deviation, or irregularity
Correct Answer
A. To abolish, repeal, or nullifyExplanation
The correct answer is "To abolish, repeal, or nullify." This is because the word "abrogate" means to officially or formally put an end to something, particularly a law, agreement, or custom. It implies the act of abolishing or repealing something, thereby rendering it null and void.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Annul
- A.
To take without permission; to set aside for a particular use
- B.
An award of honor
- C.
To make void, usually refers to marriage
- D.
To make better or more tolerable
- E.
An omen, especially a good omen
Correct Answer
C. To make void, usually refers to marriageExplanation
The word "annul" means to make void, usually referring to marriage. This means that when something is annulled, it is declared legally invalid or void, as if it never existed. In the context of marriage, annulment is a legal process that declares a marriage to be null and void, as if it never took place. This is different from divorce, which is the legal termination of a valid marriage. Therefore, the correct answer is "To make void, usually refers to marriage."Rate this question:
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- 23.
Abysmal
- A.
Hermit-like; practicing self-denial
- B.
Extremely hopeless or wretched, bottomless
- C.
Standoffish, uninvolved, keeping one’s distance
- D.
Elevation to divine status; the perfect example of something
- E.
Out of place in time or history
Correct Answer
B. Extremely hopeless or wretched, bottomlessExplanation
The word "abysmal" is used to describe something that is extremely hopeless or wretched, bottomless. This means that the situation or thing being described is of very poor quality or is in a state of great despair. The word "abysmal" suggests that there is no way to improve or recover from this state, emphasizing the depth of the hopelessness or wretchedness.Rate this question:
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- 24.
Antithetical
- A.
Subordinate; providing assistance
- B.
Hermit-like; practicing self-denial
- C.
In opposition to, contrary to
- D.
Gradual wearing away; a natural or expected decrease in size or number
- E.
Elevation to divine status; the perfect example of something
Correct Answer
C. In opposition to, contrary to -
- 25.
Aggregate
- A.
Collection of things mixed together; the sum total
- B.
Hardworking, diligent, busy
- C.
Something or someone loathed or detested
- D.
Bitter, Sour, Severe
- E.
Protection, support; sponsorship
Correct Answer
A. Collection of things mixed together; the sum totalExplanation
The correct answer is "Collection of things mixed together; the sum total." This is because the word "aggregate" can be used to describe a collection of things that are combined or mixed together to form a whole. It can also refer to the total or sum of these things.Rate this question:
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- 26.
Assiduous
- A.
To determine with certainty; to find out definitely
- B.
One who deserts his or her professed principles or faith
- C.
An award of honor
- D.
To soothe, pacify, or relieve
- E.
Hardworking, diligent, busy
Correct Answer
E. Hardworking, diligent, busyExplanation
The correct answer for this question is "Hardworking, diligent, busy." This is because the word "assiduous" is used to describe someone who is dedicated and persistent in their efforts. They are diligent in their work and put in a lot of effort. They are also busy, constantly engaged in their tasks.Rate this question:
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- 27.
Anomaly
- A.
To make better or more tolerable
- B.
One who deserts his or her professed principles or faith
- C.
An aberration, deviation, or irregularity
- D.
Greed
- E.
To make void, usually refers to marriage
Correct Answer
C. An aberration, deviation, or irregularityExplanation
The correct answer is "An aberration, deviation, or irregularity." This option aligns with the definition of the word "anomaly," which refers to something that deviates from what is considered normal or expected. It suggests that the given word is used to describe a situation or occurrence that is unusual or out of the ordinary.Rate this question:
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- 28.
Afford
- A.
To permit or allow; to enable
- B.
Subordinate; providing assistance
- C.
The study of human cultures
- D.
An award of honor
- E.
Elevation to divine status; the perfect example of something
Correct Answer
A. To permit or allow; to enableExplanation
The word "afford" means to permit or allow, or to enable someone to do something. It implies that there is a capability or opportunity to do or have something. This definition suggests that "afford" gives permission or provides the means for someone to engage in a particular action or have a certain experience.Rate this question:
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- 29.
Barometer
- A.
To determine with certainty; to find out definitely
- B.
Subordinate; providing assistance
- C.
An instrument that measures atmospheric pressure
- D.
To abolish, repeal, or nullify
- E.
Passionate
Correct Answer
C. An instrument that measures atmospheric pressureExplanation
The correct answer is "An instrument that measures atmospheric pressure". A barometer is a scientific instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure. It is commonly used in weather forecasting and is essential in determining changes in weather patterns. By measuring the pressure exerted by the atmosphere, a barometer helps in predicting changes in weather conditions such as storms, high or low-pressure systems, and changes in temperature.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Avuncular
- A.
An original model or pattern
- B.
Greed
- C.
Keenness of judgment; mental sharpness
- D.
Kind, helpful, generous; like a nice uncle
- E.
Hardworking, diligent, busy
Correct Answer
D. Kind, helpful, generous; like a nice uncleExplanation
The word "avuncular" is derived from the Latin word "avunculus" which means "uncle". In English, it is used to describe someone who is kind, helpful, and generous, much like a nice uncle would be. This person is caring, nurturing, and supportive, often providing guidance and assistance to others. The word carries a connotation of warmth and familial love, suggesting a relationship of trust and affection.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Ameliorate
- A.
Keenness of judgment; mental sharpness
- B.
Gradual wearing away; a natural or expected decrease in size or number
- C.
To make better or more tolerable
- D.
In opposition to, contrary to
- E.
An aberration, deviation, or irregularity
Correct Answer
C. To make better or more tolerableExplanation
The word "ameliorate" means to make something better or more tolerable. This explanation aligns with the definition provided in the question. It suggests that "ameliorate" is used to improve or enhance something, making it more acceptable or easier to endure.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Ascertain
- A.
One who deserts his or her professed principles or faith
- B.
To determine with certainty; to find out definitely
- C.
To make better or more tolerable
- D.
An omen, especially a good omen
- E.
Greed
Correct Answer
B. To determine with certainty; to find out definitelyExplanation
The word "ascertain" means to determine with certainty or to find out definitely. This means that when you ascertain something, you are ensuring that you have accurate and reliable information or knowledge about it. It implies a process of investigation or verification in order to establish the truth or accuracy of a particular fact or situation.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Anathema
- A.
Something or someone loathed or detested
- B.
Elevation to divine status; the perfect example of something
- C.
Out of place in time or history
- D.
To abolish, repeal, or nullify
- E.
To determine with certainty; to find out definitely
Correct Answer
A. Something or someone loathed or detestedExplanation
The word "anathema" refers to something or someone that is loathed or detested. This means that it is strongly disliked or hated by people. This explanation aligns with the given correct answer, which states that "anathema" refers to something or someone loathed or detested.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Abstruse
- A.
An original model or pattern
- B.
Difficult to understand
- C.
Greed
- D.
Easy to talk to; friendly
- E.
Bitter, Sour, Severe
Correct Answer
B. Difficult to understandExplanation
The word "abstruse" refers to something that is difficult to understand. It suggests that the subject or concept being discussed is complex, obscure, or hard to grasp. This term is often used to describe ideas, theories, or texts that require a high level of intellectual effort to comprehend.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Anachronistic
- A.
An aberration, deviation, or irregularity
- B.
Extremely hopeless or wretched, bottomless
- C.
Passionate
- D.
An aberration, deviation, or irregularity
- E.
Out of place in time or history
Correct Answer
E. Out of place in time or historyExplanation
The correct answer is "Out of place in time or history." This means that something is not in its correct or expected time period or historical context. It suggests that it is an anachronism, something that is out of sync with its surroundings in terms of time.Rate this question:
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Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Sep 16, 2010Quiz Created by
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