1.
Conciliatory (kon SIL ee uh tor ee)
Correct Answer
D. Soothing
Explanation
The word "conciliatory" means intended or likely to placate or pacify. It suggests a willingness to make peace or to reconcile with others. The word "soothing" also has a similar meaning, as it refers to something that brings comfort, calmness, or relief. Therefore, "soothing" is the correct answer as it aligns with the concept of being conciliatory and promoting a peaceful atmosphere.
2.
Credible (KRED uh bul)
Correct Answer
B. Reliable
Explanation
Reliable is the correct answer because it is the opposite of fraudulent, deceitful, and untrustworthy, all of which imply a lack of trustworthiness or credibility. Reliable, on the other hand, means trustworthy and dependable, indicating that something or someone can be relied upon to perform consistently and accurately.
3.
Exonerate (eg ZON er ayt)
Correct Answer
C. To vindicate
Explanation
To vindicate means to clear someone of blame or suspicion. It is the opposite of convicting or accusing someone. When someone is exonerated, it means that they are proven innocent or their guilt is removed. Therefore, the correct answer is "To vindicate" because it aligns with the meaning of exonerate.
4.
Incontrovertible (in kahn truh VERT uh bul)
Correct Answer
C. Problematic
Explanation
The word "incontrovertible" means something that is impossible to dispute or argue against. The word "problematic" is the closest in meaning to "incontrovertible" as it suggests that something is causing problems or difficulties. The other options, "broad," "questionable," and "indisputable," do not convey the same meaning as "incontrovertible." Therefore, "problematic" is the correct answer.
5.
Indict (in DITE)
Correct Answer
C. To impeach
Explanation
The word "indict" means to formally accuse someone of a crime. "To impeach" is the most appropriate synonym for "indict" among the given options, as it also refers to the process of charging an official with misconduct in a formal setting, such as a trial. "To infer" means to deduce or conclude something based on evidence or reasoning, "to exonerate" means to clear someone of blame or responsibility, and "to vindicate" means to prove someone's innocence or justify their actions.
6.
Litigious (luh TIJ us)
Correct Answer
B. Controversial
Explanation
The word "litigious" refers to someone who is prone to engaging in lawsuits or legal disputes. This word does not have a direct relationship with any of the other words given. However, "controversial" is the closest in meaning as it refers to something that is likely to cause disagreement or argument. Therefore, "controversial" is the best fit among the options provided.
7.
Partisan (adj.) (PAR tiz un)
Correct Answer
D. Biased
Explanation
The word "partisan" means showing strong support for a particular party, group, or cause, often to the point of being biased. Therefore, the correct answer is "biased" as it is the opposite of "impartial" and "disinterested", and it does not mean "complete".
8.
Parity (PA ruh tee)
Correct Answer
B. Equality
Explanation
The word "parity" refers to the state of being equal or having equal status. Therefore, the correct answer is "equality" because it is the only word in the given options that is synonymous with parity. "Divergence" means moving or extending in different directions, "dissimilarity" means lack of similarity or resemblance, and "reenactment" means the act of performing again or reproducing.
9.
Rectitude (REK ti tood)
Correct Answer
C. Righteousness
Explanation
Rectitude is defined as moral uprightness or righteousness. It is the quality of being honest, fair, and morally correct. The other options, wickedness, impiety, and gigantic, do not have the same meaning as rectitude and are therefore incorrect. Wickedness refers to the quality of being evil or morally wrong. Impiety refers to lack of respect or reverence for a god or sacred things. Gigantic refers to something that is extremely large in size. Only righteousness aligns with the definition of rectitude.
10.
Remiss (ree MISS)
Correct Answer
A. Negligent
Explanation
The word "remiss" means negligent or careless. This implies that the person is not fulfilling their responsibilities or duties properly. "Negligent" is the closest synonym to "remiss" in the given options, as it also means failing to take proper care or not paying enough attention to something. Therefore, "negligent" is the correct answer.
11.
Repudiate (ree PYOO dee ayt)
Correct Answer
B. To rebuff
Explanation
The word "repudiate" means to reject, deny, or refuse to accept something. When someone repudiates something, they are essentially rebuffing it, showing a strong opposition or disagreement towards it. Therefore, "To rebuff" is the correct answer as it accurately represents the meaning of "repudiate".
12.
Sanctimonious (sank ti MO nee us)
Correct Answer
D. Smug
Explanation
The word "sanctimonious" means pretending to be morally superior or righteous. The correct answer "smug" aligns with this definition as it refers to someone who is self-satisfied or overly confident in their own righteousness or superiority. This word choice accurately captures the negative connotation associated with "sanctimonious" and suggests that the person is insincere and arrogant in their moral beliefs.
13.
Scrupulous (SKROO pyoo lus)
Correct Answer
C. Principled
Explanation
The word "scrupulous" means being careful, thorough, and principled in one's actions. It implies having strong moral principles and being committed to doing what is right. Therefore, the most appropriate synonym for "scrupulous" is "principled," as it captures the essence of someone who acts with integrity and follows ethical guidelines. "Perfectionist" refers more to the pursuit of flawlessness, "ghastly" means horrifying or dreadful, and "atrocious" means extremely bad or unpleasant, none of which fully align with the meaning of "scrupulous."
14.
Solicitous (so LIS it us)
Correct Answer
C. Concerned
Explanation
The word "solicitous" means showing care, concern, or attention. Out of the given options, "concerned" is the word that best aligns with the meaning of "solicitous." It suggests that the person is attentive and interested in the well-being or needs of others. The other options, such as "casual," "annoying," and "nonchalant," do not convey the same level of care and concern. Therefore, "concerned" is the correct answer.
15.
Sophistry (SAHF is tree)
Correct Answer
A. Fallacious
Explanation
The word "fallacious" means something that is deceptive or misleading. In the given context, "Sophistry" refers to the use of clever but false arguments, suggesting that the statement "SAHF is tree" is deceptive or misleading. Therefore, "fallacious" is the correct answer as it aligns with the meaning of "sophistry" and accurately describes the statement provided.
16.
Substantiate (sub STAN shee ayt)
Correct Answer
C. Verify
Explanation
The word "substantiate" means to provide evidence or proof to support a claim or statement. The words "disprove" and "refute" mean to prove that something is false or incorrect. Therefore, they are opposite in meaning to "substantiate." On the other hand, "verify" means to confirm or establish the truth or accuracy of something, which aligns with the meaning of "substantiate." "Remember" is unrelated to the meaning of "substantiate" and is not a synonym.
17.
Veracity (vuh RA si tee)
Correct Answer
B. Truthfulness
Explanation
Veracity refers to the quality of being truthful or honest. It implies that something is accurate and conforms to the facts. In this context, "truthfulness" is the correct answer as it aligns with the meaning of veracity. The other options, such as fast, fabrication, and untruthful, do not accurately capture the concept of veracity and are therefore incorrect.
18.
Vindicate (VIN dih kayt)
Correct Answer
D. Justify
Explanation
The word "vindicate" means to justify or prove to be right or reasonable. It is used to defend or support a claim or action. The other options, such as "indict" which means to formally accuse, "to make old fashion" which is not related to the meaning of vindicate, and "accuse" which is similar to indict, do not convey the same meaning as "justify." Therefore, "justify" is the correct answer as it aligns with the definition of vindicate.
19.
Cajole (kuh JOL)
Correct Answer
C. To flatter
Explanation
Cajole means to persuade someone through flattery or coaxing. It involves using compliments or praise to manipulate someone into doing what you want. The other options do not accurately capture the meaning of cajole. "To trick" implies deceit, "to plead" suggests begging or pleading, and "to want" simply means to desire something. Therefore, the correct answer is "to flatter" as it best describes the action of cajoling.
20.
Chicanery (chik AY ner ee)
Correct Answer
B. Trickery
Explanation
Chicanery is defined as the use of deceitful tactics or trickery to achieve one's goals. It involves dishonesty and cunning behavior. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is "Trickery" as it accurately represents the meaning of chicanery.
21.
Obsequious (ob SEEK wee us)
Correct Answer
C. Submissive
Explanation
The word "obsequious" means excessively obedient or submissive. This suggests that the correct answer is "submissive" as it aligns with the definition of the word. The other options, "sincere," "sneaky," and "cruel," do not convey the same meaning as "obsequious" and are therefore incorrect.
22.
Sycophant (SIK uh fent)
Correct Answer
C. Insincere
Explanation
Insincere is the correct answer because a sycophant is someone who flatters and praises others insincerely in order to gain personal advantage. The other options, genuine, ingenuous, and frank, all imply honesty and sincerity, which are opposite to the behavior of a sycophant. Therefore, insincere is the most appropriate choice.
23.
Altruism (AL troo iz im)
Correct Answer
A. Selflessness
Explanation
The word "altruism" refers to the quality of being selfless or concerned for the well-being of others. It is the opposite of egocentricity and narcissism, which both involve a focus on oneself. Therefore, "selflessness" is the correct answer as it directly relates to the meaning of altruism.
24.
Eminent (EM uh nent)
Correct Answer
D. Prominent
Explanation
The word "eminent" means famous, respected, or important. Out of the given options, "prominent" is the most similar in meaning to "eminent." Both words describe someone or something that is well-known or stands out in a particular field or area. Therefore, "prominent" is the correct answer.
25.
Empathy (em puh THEE)
Correct Answer
C. Sympathy
Explanation
Sympathy is the correct answer because it is the word that is most closely related to empathy. While empathy refers to the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, sympathy refers to the feeling of compassion or pity for someone else's situation. Both empathy and sympathy involve an emotional connection to others, making sympathy the most appropriate choice among the given options.
26.
Extol (ek STOL)
Correct Answer
B. To praise
Explanation
The word "extol" means to praise or highly commend someone or something. It is the opposite of scolding or criticizing. Therefore, the correct answer is "to praise."
27.
Laudatory (LAW duh tor ee)
Correct Answer
D. Full of praise
Explanation
The word "laudatory" is derived from the verb "laud," which means to praise or commend. Therefore, if something is described as "laudatory," it means that it is full of praise. This is the opposite of being full of hatred or dirty. While sophistication may be seen as a positive trait, it is not directly related to the meaning of "laudatory."
28.
Magnanimous (mag NAN im us)
Correct Answer
C. Noble
Explanation
The word "magnanimous" means generous and forgiving, especially towards a rival or someone who has wronged you. It is a positive trait associated with nobility and high moral character. Therefore, the correct answer is "noble."
29.
Philanthropic (fil un THROP ik)
Correct Answer
A. Humanitarian
Explanation
The word "philanthropic" refers to someone who is involved in acts of charity and goodwill towards others. A humanitarian is someone who is also involved in helping and supporting others, especially during times of crisis or need. Both words have similar meanings and are often used interchangeably to describe someone who is compassionate and caring towards humanity. Therefore, the correct answer is "humanitarian."
30.
Reciprocate (ree SIP ro kayt)
Correct Answer
D. Mutually take or give
Explanation
Reciprocate means to mutually take or give. It implies a reciprocal exchange between two or more parties, where each party takes turns in giving or receiving something. This could be in the form of actions, favors, or gestures. It emphasizes the idea of a balanced and equal exchange, where both parties are actively involved in the process.
31.
Defunct (duh FUNKT)
Correct Answer
C. Extinct
Explanation
The word "defunct" means no longer in existence or functioning. The given options are "animate," which means alive or able to move; "inappropriate," which means not suitable or proper; and "extinct," which means no longer in existence. Out of these options, "extinct" is the only word that is synonymous with "defunct," as both imply something that is no longer in existence. Therefore, the correct answer is "extinct."
32.
Extirpate
(ek stir PAYT)
Correct Answer
B. To destroy
Explanation
The word "extirpate" means to completely destroy or eradicate something. It implies a thorough and complete removal, leaving nothing behind. Therefore, "to destroy" is the correct answer as it accurately captures the meaning of the word.
33.
Expurgate (ek spur GAYT)
Correct Answer
B. To edit
Explanation
The word "expurgate" means to remove or delete objectionable or offensive parts from a text or piece of writing. When someone edits a document, they often remove or modify certain parts to improve clarity, accuracy, or appropriateness. Therefore, "to edit" is the correct answer that best aligns with the definition of "expurgate".
34.
Quell (KWEL)
Correct Answer
A. Suppress
Explanation
The word "quell" means to suppress or subdue something, usually referring to emotions, rebellion, or disturbances. It implies the act of calming or quieting down a situation or feeling. Therefore, "suppress" is the correct answer as it closely matches the meaning of "quell." "Motivate," "unleash," and "participate" do not convey the same idea of suppressing or subduing something, making them incorrect options.
35.
Raze (RAYZ)
Correct Answer
B. Demolish
Explanation
The word "raze" means to completely destroy or demolish something. Therefore, the correct answer is "Demolish" as it is the only word that accurately represents the meaning of "raze". "Construct" means to build or create, "gossip" means to engage in casual or idle talk, and "party" refers to a social gathering or celebration, none of which are synonymous with "raze".
36.
Squelch (SKWELCH)
Correct Answer
D. Squash
Explanation
The word "squelch" means to suppress or silence something, often with a wet or sucking sound. "Squash" is the most closely related word to "squelch" as it also refers to the act of crushing or suppressing something. Both words involve applying pressure or force to something in order to eliminate or reduce it. Therefore, "squash" is the correct answer as it is the most similar in meaning to "squelch" among the given options.
37.
Supplant (suh PLANT)
Correct Answer
B. To replace
Explanation
The word "supplant" means to replace something or someone with something else. It implies the act of taking the place of something or someone. Therefore, out of the given options, "to replace" is the most appropriate definition for the word "supplant".
38.
Stymie (STY mee)
Correct Answer
A. Bewilder
Explanation
The word "stymie" means to hinder or obstruct progress. The best synonym for this word is "bewilder," as it implies a state of confusion or puzzlement. "Resolve" means to find a solution or make a firm decision, which is the opposite of what "stymie" suggests. "Approve" means to give consent or agree with something, which is unrelated to the meaning of "stymie." "Stylize" means to give a distinctive style or appearance, which is also unrelated to the meaning of "stymie." Therefore, "bewilder" is the most appropriate synonym for "stymie."
39.
Abase (uh BAYS)
Correct Answer
C. Degrade
Explanation
The word "abase" means to degrade or lower in rank, position, or esteem. It implies a loss of dignity or self-respect. Therefore, the correct answer is "degrade," as it is the closest in meaning to "abase." The other options, "build-up," "help," and "plead," do not convey the same sense of lowering or diminishing.
40.
Deride (duh RIDE)
Correct Answer
B. Mock
Explanation
The word "deride" means to mock or ridicule someone or something. Therefore, the correct answer is "Mock" as it is the word that is most closely related in meaning to "deride".
41.
Derogatory (duh RAH guh tor ee)
Correct Answer
C. Insulting
Explanation
The word "derogatory" means showing a disrespectful or critical attitude towards someone or something. It implies that the words or actions are intended to belittle or insult the person or thing being referred to. Therefore, the correct answer is "Insulting" as it best describes the meaning of the word "derogatory".
42.
Disparage (dis PAR uj)
Correct Answer
C. To belittle
Explanation
To disparage means to belittle or speak negatively about someone or something. It implies expressing a lack of respect or approval, often with the intention of undermining or diminishing their worth or importance. The other options, "to save," "to compliment," and "to accolade," all have positive connotations and are the opposite of disparage. Therefore, the correct answer is "to belittle."
43.
Effrontery (eh FRON ter ee)
Correct Answer
D. Presumptuousness
Explanation
Presumptuousness is the correct answer because effrontery refers to boldness or audacity, especially when it is considered disrespectful or rude. Stupidity, diffidence, and timidity do not accurately capture the meaning of effrontery, as they do not involve the same level of boldness or audacity.
44.
Ignominy (IG nuh mi nee)
Correct Answer
A. Disgraceful conduct
Explanation
Ignominy refers to a state of disgrace or dishonor. It is associated with shameful or disgraceful conduct that brings humiliation or embarrassment. The word implies a loss of respect or reputation due to one's actions or behavior. Therefore, the correct answer is "Disgraceful conduct."
45.
Impugn (im PYOON)
Correct Answer
B. Accuse
Explanation
The word "impugn" means to challenge or criticize someone's motives or integrity. When we accuse someone, we are essentially impugning their character or actions by suggesting that they have done something wrong or are guilty of a wrongdoing. Therefore, "accuse" is the correct answer as it aligns with the meaning of "impugn".
46.
Mar (MAR)
Correct Answer
D. To ruin
47.
Pejorative (adj.) (puh JOR uh tiv)
Correct Answer
C. Belittling
Explanation
The word "pejorative" means to express contempt or disapproval, often by belittling or derogatory remarks. Therefore, the correct answer is "Belittling" as it accurately describes the nature of the word.
48.
Vex (VEKS)
Correct Answer
B. To perplex
Explanation
The word "vex" means to cause someone to feel confused or puzzled, thus creating a state of perplexity. The other options, "to placate," "to soothe," and "to mollify," all have the opposite meaning of calming or appeasing someone. Therefore, "to perplex" is the correct answer as it aligns with the meaning of the word "vex."
49.
Vindictive (vin DIK tiv)
Correct Answer
D. Spiteful
Explanation
The word "vindictive" means having or showing a strong desire for revenge. The options "merciful," "benevolent," and "compassionate" all have positive connotations and refer to being kind and forgiving. However, "spiteful" is the opposite of these options and aligns with the meaning of "vindictive" as it refers to someone who is malicious, mean-spirited, and takes pleasure in causing harm or distress to others.