English Vocabulary · GRE Live Review Preview

GRE Vocabulary Words

The GRE Verbal Reasoning measure asks test takers to understand and evaluate written material, analyze relationships among ideas, and use evidence within a sentence or passage. Reading Comprehension, Text Completion, and Sentence Equivalence all reward careful attention to connotation, contrast, logic, and precise word choice—not isolated memorization alone.

This independently authored 800-word beta curriculum prioritizes vocabulary identified in Magoosh’s official public GRE vocabulary ebook, then draws on advanced KSSR entries that have already passed English safety and structure audits. Additional official and public GRE references guide test alignment and editorial review. Overlap with SAT and advanced school-level vocabulary is intentional because the tests share academic language. Pages containing words 1–500 include five cloze questions; every word remains visible, editable in Vocabulary Studio, and available for private difficult/learned tracking. This unofficial resource is not endorsed by or affiliated with ETS.

Return to interactive study tools

Complete text list

All 800 words are included below as ordinary HTML. This view does not require JavaScript.

Page 1: words 1–35

Vocabulary page 1
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
1	advocate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: advocate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to publicly support a cause or policy	Several physicians advocate earlier screening for the disease.
2	aesthetic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: aesthetic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	concerned with beauty or artistic effect	The architect balanced aesthetic goals with practical safety needs.
3	alleviate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: alleviate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make pain or a problem less severe	Shade trees can alleviate extreme heat on city streets.
4	paucity	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	a shortage or small amount	A paucity of evidence makes the conclusion uncertain.
5	contrite	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: contrite is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	sincerely sorry for wrongdoing	The contrite official apologized and returned the misused funds.
6	laconic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: laconic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	using very few words	His laconic reply revealed nothing about his intentions.
7	pugnacious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	eager to argue or fight	The pugnacious spokesperson turned every interview into a confrontation.
8	disparate	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: disparate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	fundamentally different and difficult to compare	The essay connects disparate examples through one central idea.
9	egregious	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	outstandingly bad or shocking	The audit uncovered an egregious misuse of public money.
10	innocuous	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	harmless and unlikely to offend	The innocuous question unexpectedly revealed a deeper disagreement.
11	candid	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: candid is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	honest and direct, even when the truth is uncomfortable	Her candid assessment revealed serious flaws in the project.
12	erratic	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: erratic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	unpredictable and lacking a consistent pattern	Erratic rainfall made planting decisions difficult.
13	extant	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: extant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	still existing, especially when most examples have disappeared	Only three extant copies of the map are known.
14	contentious	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	likely to cause disagreement or argument	Housing policy became the election's most contentious issue.
15	auspicious	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	suggesting favorable future results	A peaceful transfer of power was an auspicious beginning.
16	enervate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: enervate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to drain someone of energy or strength	Weeks of extreme heat can enervate even experienced fieldworkers.
17	ambivalent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: ambivalent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	having conflicting feelings about something	She felt ambivalent about leaving home for a distant university.
18	sedulous	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	showing steady and careful effort	Through sedulous research, she reconstructed the lost manuscript.
19	galvanize	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ize commonly forms a verb meaning to make, become, or apply.	to spur someone into taking action	The shocking images helped galvanize public support for reform.
20	hedge	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: hedge is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to limit or soften a claim to avoid overstatement	Careful scientists hedge conclusions when the sample is small.
21	qualify	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ify commonly forms a verb meaning to make or become.	to limit a statement by adding conditions or exceptions	The researcher must qualify the conclusion because the sample was small.
22	zeitgeist	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ist often names a person associated with a field, belief, or practice.	the dominant ideas and mood of a historical period	The novel captures the anxious zeitgeist of the decade.
23	demur	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: demur is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to raise an objection or show reluctance	Two members began to demur when the vote was rushed.
24	hector	verb Study Field: Grade 11 precise interdisciplinary word Word study: Base-form focus: hector is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to bully or intimidate through forceful speech	The supervisor tried to hector employees into unpaid overtime.
25	quixotic	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: quixotic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	idealistic in a way that is impractical	The plan to end all traffic within a week was quixotic.
26	malapropism	noun Study Field: Grade 9 literature, rhetoric, and language term Word study: Suffix focus: -ism often names a belief, system, movement, or practice.	the humorous mistaken use of a word that sounds similar to the intended one	Saying “dance a flamingo” instead of “dance a flamenco” is a malapropism.
27	byzantine	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: byzantine is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	excessively complicated and difficult to navigate	Applicants struggled with the agency's byzantine rules.
28	supercilious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	behaving as though one is superior to others	The critic's supercilious tone alienated ordinary readers.
29	mercurial	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: mercurial is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	changing mood or behavior suddenly and unpredictably	The mercurial director praised the plan one day and rejected it the next.
30	bilious	adjective Study Field: Grade 11 precise interdisciplinary word Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	bad-tempered, unpleasant, or nauseated	The bilious columnist attacked every proposal without offering an alternative.
31	choleric	adjective Study Field: Grade 10 precise high-utility word Word study: Base-form focus: choleric is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	easily angered and habitually irritable	The choleric supervisor responded to small delays with disproportionate fury.
32	sanguine	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: sanguine is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	optimistic, especially in a difficult situation	Analysts remain sanguine about the economy's long-term prospects.
33	parochial	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: parochial is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	narrowly limited to local concerns or viewpoints	A parochial approach ignored the river's importance across borders.
34	catholic	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: catholic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	broad and inclusive in interests or sympathies	Her catholic taste in music ranged from opera to electronic dance.
35	iconoclast	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: iconoclast is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a person who challenges established beliefs or traditions	The composer became an iconoclast by rejecting every accepted form.

A Design Worth Defending

Reading practice for pages 1–3. Five relevant words are highlighted.

English reading

The museum’s spare aesthetic divided visitors on opening night. One architect chose to advocate for the design, explaining that the quiet rooms directed attention toward the art. Her explanation helped alleviate some concerns, but several guests remained ambivalent: they admired the clarity yet missed the warmth of the old galleries. By the end of the week, the sharpest criticism began to abate as visitors spent more time with the exhibition.

Reading comprehension

1. Why does the architect defend the design?

She says the quiet rooms direct attention toward the art.

2. Why are some visitors ambivalent?

They value the clarity but miss the warmth of the old galleries.

3. What happens to the criticism by the end of the week?

The sharpest criticism begins to abate.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. Several physicians _____ earlier screening for the disease.

Answer: advocate

2. The architect balanced _____ goals with practical safety needs.

Answer: aesthetic

3. Shade trees can _____ extreme heat on city streets.

Answer: alleviate

4. A _____ of evidence makes the conclusion uncertain.

Answer: paucity

5. The _____ official apologized and returned the misused funds.

Answer: contrite

Page 2: words 36–70

Vocabulary page 2
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
36	prevaricate	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: prevaricate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to avoid the truth by speaking evasively	The witness began to prevaricate when asked about the missing funds.
37	thrifty	adjective Study Field: Grade 5 language and literature word Word study: Base-form focus: thrifty is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	careful about spending money or using supplies	The thrifty cook turned leftover vegetables into soup.
38	regression	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -sion commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	a statistical method for estimating relationships among variables	The researchers used regression to control for age.
39	impecunious	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	having little or no money	The impecunious student relied on free public lectures.
40	penurious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	extremely poor or unwilling to spend	The penurious patron refused to fund basic safety repairs.
41	affluent	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: affluent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	having abundant wealth or resources	The survey compared affluent districts with communities lacking basic services.
42	profligate	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: profligate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	recklessly wasteful or immoral	Profligate spending left the administration deeply in debt.
43	prodigal	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: prodigal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	wastefully extravagant	The prodigal heir exhausted the estate within a decade.
44	avarice	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: avarice is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an extreme desire to gain wealth	The novel portrays avarice as a force that destroys trust.
45	cupidity	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	an excessive desire for wealth	The satire portrays cupidity as the mayor's only principle.
46	defray	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: defray is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to pay part or all of a cost	A grant will defray travel expenses.
47	apotheosis	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: apotheosis is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	the highest point of development or ideal form	Critics called the cathedral the apotheosis of Gothic architecture.
48	bellicose	adjective Study Field: Grade 11 precise interdisciplinary word Word study: Base-form focus: bellicose is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	aggressive and eager for conflict	The leader's bellicose speech alarmed neighboring states.
49	truculent	adjective Study Field: Grade 11 precise interdisciplinary word Word study: Base-form focus: truculent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	aggressively defiant and eager to fight	The minister's truculent reply threatened the fragile truce.
50	ferret	verb Study Field: Grade 8 precise high-utility word Word study: Base-form focus: ferret is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to search persistently until something hidden is discovered	The auditor will ferret out errors in the complicated accounts.
51	serendipity	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	the chance discovery of something valuable	Serendipity led the chemist to an unexpected material.
52	invective	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: invective is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	insulting or abusive language	The debate deteriorated into personal invective.
53	diatribe	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: diatribe is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a long and bitter verbal attack	The editorial became a diatribe against anyone who questioned the policy.
54	tirade	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: tirade is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a long and angry speech	The meeting ended with a tirade against the press.
55	harangue	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: harangue is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a long, forceful, and critical speech	The coach's angry harangue embarrassed the entire team.
56	catalyst	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: catalyst is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	something that causes or speeds significant change	The court decision became a catalyst for nationwide reform.
57	gregarious	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	sociable and fond of company	The gregarious researcher built collaborations across several departments.
58	ingenuous	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	innocent, sincere, and without deception	Her ingenuous question revealed a flaw the experts had overlooked.
59	disabuse	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: disabuse is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to free someone from a mistaken belief	The evidence should disabuse readers of the idea that the change was sudden.
60	amiable	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: amiable is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	friendly and pleasant in manner	Despite the fierce debate, the candidates remained amiable afterward.
61	affable	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: affable is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	pleasant, friendly, and easy to approach	The affable professor welcomed questions after the lecture.
62	nascent	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: nascent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	just beginning to exist or develop	The nascent movement had enthusiasm but little organization.
63	attenuate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: attenuate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to reduce the strength or effect of something	Trees can attenuate traffic noise.
64	animosity	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	strong hostility or resentment	Old animosity between the rivals complicated the negotiations.
65	anomalous	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	deviating from what is normal or expected	The team repeated the test after one anomalous result.
66	acrimony	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: acrimony is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	bitter anger expressed during a disagreement	Years of acrimony made a calm settlement difficult.
67	aberration	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ation commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	something that differs sharply from the usual pattern	The single cold day was an aberration in an otherwise warm month.
68	ambiguous	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	open to more than one reasonable interpretation	The ambiguous instructions produced three different results.
69	amorphous	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	lacking a clear shape, structure, or organization	The movement remained amorphous until its members adopted shared goals.
70	admonish	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: admonish is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to warn or criticize someone firmly but not harshly	The judge had to admonish the witness for interrupting.

Page 2 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 2.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The witness began to _____ when asked about the missing funds.

Answer: prevaricate

2. The _____ cook turned leftover vegetables into soup.

Answer: thrifty

3. The researchers used _____ to control for age.

Answer: regression

4. The _____ student relied on free public lectures.

Answer: impecunious

5. The _____ patron refused to fund basic safety repairs.

Answer: penurious

Page 3: words 71–105

Vocabulary page 3
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
71	calumny	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: calumny is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a false statement intended to damage a reputation	The candidate denounced the rumor as a deliberate calumny.
72	commensurate	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: commensurate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	corresponding appropriately in size, degree, or value	Compensation should be commensurate with the risks of the work.
73	castigate	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: castigate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to criticize or punish someone severely	Editorials began to castigate officials for ignoring the contamination.
74	chastise	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: chastise is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to criticize or punish someone severely	The supervisor had to chastise the team for falsifying records.
75	cogent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: cogent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	clear, logical, and convincing	The lawyer offered a cogent explanation supported by three records.
76	fractious	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	irritable, unruly, and difficult to manage	The fractious coalition struggled to agree on a budget.
77	factitious	adjective Study Field: Grade 11 precise interdisciplinary word Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	artificially created rather than naturally arising	The advertisement manufactured a factitious sense of urgency.
78	exhort	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: exhort is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to strongly urge someone to act	The editorial will exhort legislators to protect the river.
79	unconscionable	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	so unfair or wrong that it shocks the conscience	The court rejected the unconscionable contract terms.
80	belie	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: belie is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to give a false impression of something	Her calm voice seemed to belie the urgency of the situation.
81	disinterested	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: disinterested is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	impartial and free from personal advantage	A disinterested panel reviewed the competing proposals.
82	equivocal	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: equivocal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	ambiguous or deliberately avoiding a clear position	The spokesperson's equivocal answer satisfied neither side.
83	limpid	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: limpid is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	clear and easy to understand	The scientist's limpid prose made the research accessible.
84	remiss	adjective Study Field: Grade 11 precise interdisciplinary word Word study: Base-form focus: remiss is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	careless in performing a duty	The agency was remiss in failing to inspect the bridge.
85	remonstrate	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: remonstrate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to protest or argue strongly against something	Residents gathered to remonstrate against the closure.
86	abash	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: abash is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make someone feel embarrassed or ashamed	The unexpected praise seemed to abash the normally confident speaker.
87	abate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: abate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to become less intense or widespread	The wind began to abate shortly after sunset.
88	abdicate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: abdicate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to give up a position of power or a serious duty	A leader cannot abdicate responsibility when a policy fails.
89	abhor	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: abhor is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to regard something with intense dislike	The reformer came to abhor laws that punished peaceful dissent.
90	abject	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: abject is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	extremely bad, hopeless, or humiliating	The expedition ended in abject failure after both engines stopped.
91	abridge	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: abridge is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to shorten a text without losing its central meaning	The editor will abridge the memoir for younger readers.
92	absolve	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: absolve is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to free someone from blame or an obligation	New evidence may absolve the driver of responsibility for the crash.
93	abstain	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: abstain is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to choose not to do or use something	Two committee members will abstain from voting because of conflicts of interest.
94	abstruse	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: abstruse is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	difficult to understand because of complexity	The article's abstruse terminology confused readers outside the field.
95	abysmal	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: abysmal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	extremely poor or unsuccessful	The shelter's abysmal conditions prompted an official investigation.
96	accede	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: accede is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to agree to a request or assume a position	After months of debate, the council chose to accede to the residents' demand.
97	acclaim	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: acclaim is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	strong public praise and approval	The novelist earned critical acclaim for her vivid historical research.
98	accolade	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: accolade is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an award or expression of high praise	The scientist accepted the accolade on behalf of her entire laboratory.
99	accommodate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: accommodate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to adjust to a need or provide enough space	The revised schedule can accommodate students in different time zones.
100	acquiesce	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: acquiesce is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to accept something without protest, often reluctantly	Faced with a unanimous vote, the director decided to acquiesce.
101	acumen	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: acumen is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	the ability to make quick and sound judgments	Her financial acumen helped the small company survive the recession.
102	adamant	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: adamant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	firmly unwilling to change an opinion or decision	The physician was adamant that the trial must follow safety rules.
103	adaptable	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	able to adjust successfully to new conditions	An adaptable species can survive rapid environmental change.
104	adept	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: adept is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	highly skilled at a particular task	The mediator was adept at finding language both sides could accept.
105	adjacent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: adjacent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	next to or very near something	The museum moved the sculpture to an adjacent gallery.

Page 3 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 3.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The candidate denounced the rumor as a deliberate _____.

Answer: calumny

2. Compensation should be _____ with the risks of the work.

Answer: commensurate

3. Editorials began to _____ officials for ignoring the contamination.

Answer: castigate

4. The supervisor had to _____ the team for falsifying records.

Answer: chastise

5. The lawyer offered a _____ explanation supported by three records.

Answer: cogent

Page 4: words 106–140

Vocabulary page 4
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
106	corroborate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: corroborate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to support a statement with additional evidence	Phone records corroborate the witness's timeline.
107	counterintuitive	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	opposite to what common sense initially suggests	The counterintuitive result improved efficiency by slowing the process.
108	adulation	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ation commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	excessive admiration or praise	The actor distrusted the sudden adulation that followed one successful film.
109	alacrity	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	cheerful readiness and quickness	The volunteers responded with alacrity when extra help was requested.
110	prosaic	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: prosaic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	ordinary and lacking imagination	The mystery ends with a prosaic explanation.
111	affinity	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	a natural attraction, similarity, or connection	Mina felt an affinity for stories about determined explorers.
112	affirm	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: affirm is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to state or confirm that something is true	The ruling will affirm every citizen's right to peaceful assembly.
113	agnostic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: agnostic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	not committed to a particular belief or claim	The software is platform agnostic and works on several operating systems.
114	allege	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: allege is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to claim something without yet proving it	Investigators allege that the contractor concealed safety defects.
115	veracity	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	truthfulness or accuracy	Documents from several sources support the account's veracity.
116	allude	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: allude is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to refer to something indirectly	The poem may allude to an ancient myth without naming it.
117	allusion	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -sion commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	an indirect reference to a person, event, or text	The title contains an allusion to a well-known folktale.
118	aloof	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: aloof is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	emotionally distant or unwilling to participate	His aloof manner made cooperation seem unlikely.
119	altruism	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ism often names a belief, system, movement, or practice.	selfless concern for the well-being of others	The anonymous donation was an act of genuine altruism.
120	ameliorate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: ameliorate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to improve a bad or difficult condition	The new drainage system should ameliorate flooding in the valley.
121	amnesty	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: amnesty is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an official pardon granted to a group	The government offered amnesty to people who surrendered banned equipment.
122	anachronism	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ism often names a belief, system, movement, or practice.	something placed in a historical period where it does not belong	A digital wristwatch would be an anachronism in a film set in 1800.
123	anarchy	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: anarchy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a condition in which effective government or order is absent	The collapse of local authority briefly led to anarchy.
124	anecdotal	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: anecdotal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	based on personal stories rather than systematic evidence	The claim rests on anecdotal reports, not a controlled study.
125	anomaly	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: anomaly is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	something that does not fit an expected pattern	Scientists rechecked the instrument after detecting an anomaly in the data.
126	antecedent	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: antecedent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an earlier event or thing that helps explain what follows	The historian traced the law's antecedent to a colonial ordinance.
127	nefarious	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	wicked or criminal	Investigators uncovered a nefarious scheme to sell forged medicine.
128	apathy	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: apathy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a lack of interest, concern, or emotion	Voter apathy can weaken public accountability.
129	aphorism	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ism often names a belief, system, movement, or practice.	a brief statement expressing a general truth or principle	The essay opens with an aphorism about patience and power.
130	appease	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: appease is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to calm someone by satisfying a demand	A minor concession did little to appease the angry residents.
131	approbation	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ation commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	formal or enthusiastic approval	The proposal won the approbation of several respected researchers.
132	arbitrary	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: arbitrary is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	based on personal choice rather than a clear reason or rule	The deadline seemed arbitrary because no schedule depended on it.
133	arcane	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: arcane is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	understood by very few people because it is specialized or obscure	The manual explains arcane legal terms in plain language.
134	archaic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: archaic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	old-fashioned and no longer in common use	The translator replaced each archaic expression with a modern equivalent.
135	ardent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: ardent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	showing intense enthusiasm or devotion	An ardent conservationist, Lee spent weekends restoring wetlands.
136	arduous	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	requiring great effort over a long period	Restoring the storm-damaged archive was an arduous task.
137	articulate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: articulate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to express an idea clearly and effectively	The witness struggled to articulate exactly what she had observed.
138	ascetic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: ascetic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	practicing strict self-denial for moral or spiritual reasons	The monk followed an ascetic routine of simple meals and few possessions.
139	assiduous	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	showing persistent care and effort	Through assiduous research, the biographer verified every quotation.
140	assimilate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: assimilate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to absorb information or become integrated into a larger group	Readers need time to assimilate several competing explanations.

Evidence Against Intuition

Reading practice for pages 4–6. Five relevant words are highlighted.

English reading

During a research briefing, Dr. Malik carefully delineated the difference between correlation and cause. Her result seemed counterintuitive, so the committee asked for an independent analysis. A second laboratory was able to corroborate the central finding. With appropriate deference to the new evidence, the project’s strongest critic had to construe the result differently because his earlier explanation no longer fit the data. The discussion changed because the participants treated revision as a strength rather than a defeat.

Reading comprehension

1. Why does the committee request another analysis?

The result seems counterintuitive, so the committee wants independent evidence.

2. What does the second laboratory do?

It corroborates the central finding.

3. Why must the critic construe the result differently?

His earlier explanation no longer fits the data.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. Phone records _____ the witness's timeline.

Answer: corroborate

2. The _____ result improved efficiency by slowing the process.

Answer: counterintuitive

3. The actor distrusted the sudden _____ that followed one successful film.

Answer: adulation

4. The volunteers responded with _____ when extra help was requested.

Answer: alacrity

5. The mystery ends with a _____ explanation.

Answer: prosaic

Page 5: words 141–175

Vocabulary page 5
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
141	assuage	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: assuage is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make an unpleasant feeling less intense	Clear safety data helped assuage public anxiety.
142	negligible	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ible means capable of, suitable for, or able to be affected.	too small to be important	The second treatment produced a negligible improvement.
143	audacious	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	boldly willing to take risks	The engineers proposed an audacious plan to move the entire lighthouse.
144	augment	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: augment is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to increase something by adding to it	Solar panels will augment the building's existing power supply.
145	austere	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: austere is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	plain, strict, or without unnecessary comfort	The room's austere design reflected the order's values.
146	autonomous	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	able to govern or operate independently	The region became autonomous while remaining part of the federation.
147	aversion	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -sion commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	a strong dislike or desire to avoid something	His aversion to risk kept him from investing in the uncertain venture.
148	banal	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: banal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	so ordinary or overused that it lacks interest	The critic dismissed the slogan as banal and forgettable.
149	belligerent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: belligerent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	hostile and eager to argue or fight	The diplomat's belligerent remarks threatened the fragile truce.
150	benign	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: benign is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	harmless or unlikely to cause damage	Tests confirmed that the unusual growth was benign.
151	bolster	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: bolster is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to strengthen or support something	New survey data may bolster the report's central claim.
152	bombastic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: bombastic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	using grand language with little real meaning	The mayor's bombastic speech offered drama but no practical plan.
153	brevity	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	the quality of being brief and concise	The editor praised the memo's clarity and brevity.
154	capricious	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	changing suddenly and without a predictable reason	Capricious enforcement made the rule seem unfair.
155	caustic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: caustic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	sharply critical in a way that can hurt	His caustic review attacked the author instead of evaluating the evidence.
156	censure	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: censure is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to express strong formal disapproval	The committee voted to censure the official for hiding records.
157	circumspect	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: circumspect is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	careful to consider risks before acting	The attorney remained circumspect when discussing an unresolved case.
158	neophyte	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: neophyte is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a beginner or recent convert	As a neophyte, he asked questions that veterans had stopped considering.
159	coalesce	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: coalesce is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to join separate parts into a single whole	Several neighborhood groups began to coalesce around one proposal.
160	coerce	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: coerce is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to force someone to act through threats or pressure	A valid agreement cannot coerce either party into surrendering legal rights.
161	collaborate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: collaborate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to work jointly toward a shared result	Scientists from five countries will collaborate on the telescope project.
162	complacent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: complacent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	too satisfied to notice danger or needed improvement	Early success made the team complacent about quality control.
163	complement	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: complement is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to complete or improve something by adding a contrasting quality	The photographs complement the essay's detailed description.
164	comprehensive	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	including all or nearly all important elements	The review provides a comprehensive account of existing research.
165	concede	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: concede is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to admit that a point is true, often reluctantly	The author must concede that the evidence remains incomplete.
166	conciliatory	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: conciliatory is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	intended to reduce conflict and restore goodwill	Her conciliatory reply reopened the stalled negotiations.
167	concurrent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: concurrent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	happening or existing at the same time	The study tracked two concurrent changes in rainfall and crop yield.
168	condone	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: condone is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to accept wrongful behavior without objection	Silence may appear to condone conduct that should be challenged.
169	construe	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: construe is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to interpret the meaning of a statement or action	Some readers construe the ending as hopeful, while others find it bleak.
170	contextualize	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ize commonly forms a verb meaning to make, become, or apply.	to place information within circumstances that explain its significance	The introduction will contextualize the speech within the labor movement.
171	contrive	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: contrive is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to create or arrange something through clever planning	The playwright can contrive a meeting without making it seem improbable.
172	conventional	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: conventional is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	following established practices or widely accepted ideas	The artist rejected conventional portrait techniques.
173	converge	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: converge is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to move toward the same point or become increasingly similar	The two lines of evidence converge on the same conclusion.
174	cryptic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: cryptic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	mysterious or difficult to understand	The note's cryptic wording left investigators uncertain.
175	culminate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: culminate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to reach the final or highest point of a process	Months of rehearsals will culminate in a public performance.

Page 5 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 5.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. Clear safety data helped _____ public anxiety.

Answer: assuage

2. The second treatment produced a _____ improvement.

Answer: negligible

3. The engineers proposed an _____ plan to move the entire lighthouse.

Answer: audacious

4. Solar panels will _____ the building's existing power supply.

Answer: augment

5. The room's _____ design reflected the order's values.

Answer: austere

Page 6: words 176–210

Vocabulary page 6
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
176	cursory	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: cursory is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	quick and not sufficiently careful or detailed	A cursory inspection failed to reveal the small fracture.
177	dearth	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: dearth is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a shortage or inadequate supply	A dearth of reliable records limits the historian's conclusions.
178	debunk	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: debunk is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to expose a false belief or claim	The experiment helped debunk a popular myth about memory.
179	deference	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ence commonly forms a noun naming an action, quality, or state.	respectful submission to another person's judgment or authority	Out of deference to local experts, the team revised its plan.
180	delineate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: delineate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to describe the boundaries or details of something precisely	The contract must delineate each partner's responsibilities.
181	denigrate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: denigrate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to unfairly criticize someone or make them seem unimportant	The article should challenge the theory without trying to denigrate its author.
182	denote	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: denote is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to indicate or mean something directly	On this map, a dashed line may denote a seasonal trail.
183	deride	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: deride is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to mock or treat with contempt	Critics began to deride the invention before testing it.
184	derivative	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	copied from an existing work and lacking originality	Reviewers found the sequel derivative despite its impressive effects.
185	despondent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: despondent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	deeply discouraged and without hope	The repeated rejections left the applicant despondent.
186	didactic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: didactic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	intended to teach, sometimes too obviously	The novel is didactic, but its characters still feel convincing.
187	diffident	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: diffident is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	shy because of a lack of confidence	The diffident student spoke more freely in a small group.
188	diligent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: diligent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	careful and persistent in one's work	A diligent researcher checks every citation against its source.
189	discerning	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: discerning is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	able to judge subtle differences accurately	A discerning reader notices when evidence does not support a conclusion.
190	discredit	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: discredit is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to harm the reputation or believability of something	One fabricated result can discredit an otherwise valuable study.
191	discrepancy	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: discrepancy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an unexplained difference between things that should agree	Auditors investigated a discrepancy between the invoice and the payment.
192	discrete	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: discrete is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	separate and distinct from other things	The survey measures three discrete aspects of public opinion.
193	disdain	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: disdain is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a feeling that someone or something is unworthy of respect	The narrator expresses disdain for empty displays of wealth.
194	dispassionate	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: dispassionate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	not influenced by strong emotion or personal interest	A judge must offer a dispassionate evaluation of the evidence.
195	disseminate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: disseminate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to spread information widely	Public agencies disseminate storm warnings through several channels.
196	diverge	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: diverge is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to develop in different directions or disagree	The researchers' interpretations diverge after the first experiment.
197	dogmatic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: dogmatic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	asserting beliefs as unquestionably true	The essay sounds dogmatic because it ignores reasonable objections.
198	eclectic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: eclectic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	drawn from a wide variety of sources or styles	The exhibit presents an eclectic mix of sculpture, film, and textiles.
199	elicit	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: elicit is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to draw out a response or piece of information	The interviewer used open questions to elicit detailed memories.
200	eloquent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: eloquent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	clear, persuasive, and graceful in expression	Her eloquent defense of the library changed several votes.
201	elusive	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	difficult to find, define, or achieve	A simple explanation for the pattern remains elusive.
202	emulate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: emulate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to imitate someone in order to equal their success	Young architects often emulate designs they admire.
203	engender	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: engender is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to cause a feeling, condition, or situation	Transparent rules can engender trust in public institutions.
204	enigmatic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: enigmatic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	mysterious and difficult to interpret	The painting's enigmatic symbols invite several interpretations.
205	ephemeral	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: ephemeral is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	lasting for only a short time	Online fame can be ephemeral without meaningful work behind it.
206	equanimity	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	calmness and emotional balance under pressure	The pilot responded to the emergency with remarkable equanimity.
207	erroneous	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	incorrect or based on a mistake	The article withdrew an erroneous claim about the study.
208	erudite	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: erudite is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	showing extensive knowledge gained through study	The historian's erudite lecture remained accessible to beginners.
209	esoteric	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: esoteric is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	intended for or understood by a small group of specialists	The journal translates esoteric research into language the public can follow.
210	exacerbate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: exacerbate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make a problem or harmful condition worse	Delaying repairs will exacerbate the damage caused by rain.

Page 6 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 6.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. A _____ inspection failed to reveal the small fracture.

Answer: cursory

2. A _____ of reliable records limits the historian's conclusions.

Answer: dearth

3. The experiment helped _____ a popular myth about memory.

Answer: debunk

4. Out of _____ to local experts, the team revised its plan.

Answer: deference

5. The contract must _____ each partner's responsibilities.

Answer: delineate

Page 7: words 211–245

Vocabulary page 7
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
211	exacting	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: exacting is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	demanding great care, effort, or precision	Restoring the mosaic is exacting work that may take years.
212	explicit	adjective Study Field: Grade 6 academic reasoning word Word study: Base-form focus: explicit is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	stated clearly and directly	The recipe gives explicit instructions for handling the hot pan.
213	facilitate	verb Study Field: Grade 7 academic reading and reasoning word Word study: Base-form focus: facilitate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make a process or activity easier	Clear labels facilitate the safe use of laboratory equipment.
214	exhaustive	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	thorough enough to include every relevant detail	The committee conducted an exhaustive review of the safety records.
215	extol	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: extol is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to praise someone or something enthusiastically	The biography tends to extol its subject while overlooking serious faults.
216	extraneous	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	irrelevant or unnecessary to the main subject	Remove extraneous details that distract from the central claim.
217	fallacious	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	based on faulty reasoning	The argument is fallacious because it treats coincidence as proof of cause.
218	feasible	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ible means capable of, suitable for, or able to be affected.	possible and practical to accomplish	Engineers concluded that the repair was feasible within the budget.
219	florid	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: florid is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	excessively elaborate in style or decoration	The florid introduction obscured a fairly simple argument.
220	forthright	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: forthright is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	direct, honest, and clear	The report is forthright about the program's limitations.
221	frivolous	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	lacking serious purpose or value	The court dismissed the frivolous complaint.
222	germane	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: germane is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	directly relevant to the matter being discussed	The editor removed a paragraph that was not germane to the argument.
223	gratuitous	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	unnecessary or lacking a valid reason	The film's gratuitous cruelty added nothing to the story.
224	hackneyed	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: hackneyed is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	overused and no longer original	The speech relied on hackneyed phrases instead of specific proposals.
225	idiosyncrasy	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: idiosyncrasy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a distinctive habit or feature peculiar to someone or something	The narrator's habit of addressing objects is an idiosyncrasy of the novel.
226	impede	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: impede is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to slow or obstruct progress	Heavy fog may impede rescue aircraft.
227	imperative	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	extremely important and requiring immediate attention	It is imperative that the damaged bridge remain closed.
228	inadvertent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: inadvertent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	unintentional and caused by lack of attention	An inadvertent omission changed the meaning of the sentence.
229	incongruous	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	out of place or inconsistent with its surroundings	The modern plastic chair looked incongruous in the medieval hall.
230	incontrovertible	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ible means capable of, suitable for, or able to be affected.	impossible to deny or dispute	The dated photograph provides incontrovertible proof that the building existed.
231	indifferent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: indifferent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	having little interest or concern	The narrator appears indifferent to the suffering around him.
232	induce	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: induce is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to cause something to happen or persuade someone to act	The medication may induce drowsiness in some patients.
233	ineffable	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	too powerful or unusual to be expressed in words	The memoir tries to capture the ineffable grief of sudden loss.
234	inherent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: inherent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	existing as a natural or essential part of something	Every measurement contains some inherent uncertainty.
235	insular	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: insular is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	unwilling to consider ideas beyond one's own group	The committee's insular outlook excluded valuable outside expertise.
236	integral	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: integral is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	essential to the completeness of something	Reliable public transit is integral to the city's housing plan.
237	noisome	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: noisome is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	offensive, harmful, or foul-smelling	A noisome odor rose from the polluted canal.
238	intrinsic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: intrinsic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	belonging naturally to the essential character of something	Curiosity has intrinsic value beyond any reward it produces.
239	intuitive	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	understood through instinctive judgment rather than deliberate reasoning	The map's intuitive design helps visitors navigate without instructions.
240	burlesque	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: burlesque is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a comic imitation that exaggerates its subject	The play is a burlesque of solemn royal ceremonies.
241	latent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: latent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	present but not yet visible or active	The crisis exposed latent divisions within the coalition.
242	burly	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: burly is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	large, strong, and heavily built	A burly porter lifted the trunk without assistance.
243	malleable	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	able to be shaped or influenced	Public opinion is often malleable during uncertain events.
244	burgeon	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: burgeon is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to grow or develop rapidly	Small businesses began to burgeon near the new railway.
245	canonical	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: canonical is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	accepted as authoritative, standard, or central to a tradition	The course questions why some works became canonical while others vanished.

Opening a Difficult Seminar

Reading practice for pages 7–9. Five relevant words are highlighted.

English reading

The visiting scholar set exacting standards, and few students could follow her first lecture. The seminar leader asked her to make each definition explicit and use a concrete example. Those changes helped facilitate a genuine discussion. One student offered a confident but fallacious comparison, and the scholar corrected it without dismissing the student. Because every response remained germane to the question, the class gradually turned a difficult topic into a productive exchange.

Reading comprehension

1. What makes the scholar’s standards demanding?

Her standards are exacting.

2. What changes facilitate discussion?

Defining the terms and adding a concrete example facilitate discussion.

3. How does the scholar respond to the fallacious comparison?

She corrects it without dismissing the student.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. Restoring the mosaic is _____ work that may take years.

Answer: exacting

2. The recipe gives _____ instructions for handling the hot pan.

Answer: explicit

3. Clear labels _____ the safe use of laboratory equipment.

Answer: facilitate

4. The committee conducted an _____ review of the safety records.

Answer: exhaustive

5. The biography tends to _____ its subject while overlooking serious faults.

Answer: extol

Page 8: words 246–280

Vocabulary page 8
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
246	mundane	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: mundane is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	ordinary and lacking excitement	The poet finds beauty in mundane routines.
247	nebulous	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	unclear, vague, or poorly defined	The candidate offered a nebulous plan with no timetable.
248	nuanced	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: nuanced is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	showing subtle distinctions and careful complexity	Her nuanced argument recognizes benefits as well as risks.
249	obscure	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: obscure is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make something difficult to see or understand	Technical jargon can obscure a simple idea.
250	ostensible	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ible means capable of, suitable for, or able to be affected.	appearing to be true but possibly hiding another reality	The meeting's ostensible purpose was planning, though everyone expected a vote.
251	paradigm	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: paradigm is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a model or pattern that shapes how something is understood	The discovery challenged the prevailing paradigm in astronomy.
252	paramount	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: paramount is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	more important than anything else	Patient safety is paramount during a clinical trial.
253	partisan	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: partisan is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	strongly supporting one side, often without fair consideration	The report avoids partisan language and presents evidence from both groups.
254	perfunctory	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: perfunctory is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	done with little care or interest	The inspector's perfunctory review missed a dangerous defect.
255	peripheral	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: peripheral is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	secondary or not central to the main issue	The debate focused on a peripheral detail rather than the proposal itself.
256	pragmatic	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: pragmatic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	focused on practical results rather than theory	The mayor adopted a pragmatic approach to the budget shortfall.
257	precedent	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: precedent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an earlier case that guides later decisions	The ruling established a precedent for protecting digital privacy.
258	precipitate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: precipitate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to cause an event, usually a sudden or unwelcome one	The bank's collapse could precipitate a wider financial crisis.
259	preclude	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: preclude is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make something impossible in advance	A prior commitment may preclude her attendance.
260	prescient	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: prescient is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	showing accurate knowledge of what will happen	The author's prescient warning anticipated the later shortage.
261	profound	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: profound is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	very deep, important, or intellectually significant	The invention had a profound effect on daily communication.
262	prolific	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: prolific is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	producing many works, results, or offspring	The prolific historian published more than twenty books.
263	reconcile	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: reconcile is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make conflicting ideas, facts, or people compatible	The theory must reconcile the two apparently contradictory results.
264	hermetic	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: hermetic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	completely sealed or isolated from outside influence	The critic objected to the novel's hermetic world of private symbols.
265	hierarchy	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Root and suffix focus: -archy relates to rule, rank, or a governing system.	a system that ranks people or things by status	The organization replaced a rigid hierarchy with shared leadership.
266	tenable	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: tenable is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	capable of being defended with evidence or reasoning	The explanation is no longer tenable after the new discovery.
267	tentative	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	uncertain and subject to revision	The committee reached a tentative agreement.
268	underscore	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: underscore is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to emphasize the importance of something	The outage will underscore the need for backup power.
269	unequivocal	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: unequivocal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	completely clear and leaving no doubt	The laboratory issued an unequivocal denial of data manipulation.
270	viable	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: viable is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	capable of working successfully	The pilot study suggests that the method is viable.
271	abnegation	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ation commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	the act of giving up one's own interests or desires	Her abnegation of personal credit kept attention on the relief effort.
272	abortive	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	failing before completion or success	An abortive rescue attempt ended when the weather worsened.
273	abstinence	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ence commonly forms a noun naming an action, quality, or state.	the practice of deliberately avoiding an activity or substance	Medical advice led him to choose abstinence from alcohol.
274	acclimate	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: acclimate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to adjust to unfamiliar conditions	The climbers paused to acclimate before ascending farther.
275	accost	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: accost is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to approach and address someone boldly or aggressively	A reporter tried to accost the actor outside the courthouse.
276	acerbic	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: acerbic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	sharp and biting in tone	The columnist's acerbic wit delighted some readers and offended others.
277	acrid	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: acrid is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	having a harsh, stinging smell, taste, or tone	Acrid smoke drifted from the burned warehouse.
278	adherent	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: adherent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a person who supports a belief, leader, or cause	Each adherent signed a pledge to defend peaceful protest.
279	adulterate	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: adulterate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make something impure by adding an inferior substance	Dishonest merchants would adulterate the spice with colored powder.
280	adverse	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: adverse is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	harmful, unfavorable, or opposed	The medicine produced no serious adverse effects.

Page 8 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 8.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The poet finds beauty in _____ routines.

Answer: mundane

2. The candidate offered a _____ plan with no timetable.

Answer: nebulous

3. Her _____ argument recognizes benefits as well as risks.

Answer: nuanced

4. Technical jargon can _____ a simple idea.

Answer: obscure

5. The meeting's _____ purpose was planning, though everyone expected a vote.

Answer: ostensible

Page 9: words 281–315

Vocabulary page 9
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
281	affectation	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ation commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	unnatural behavior adopted to impress others	His elaborate accent was an affectation that disappeared among friends.
282	agenda	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: agenda is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a list of matters to address or a hidden purpose	Environmental protection moved to the top of the council's agenda.
283	agrarian	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: agrarian is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	related to farming or rural land	The reform transformed an agrarian economy into an industrial one.
284	alloy	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: alloy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a metal made by combining two or more elements	Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin.
285	ambience	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ence commonly forms a noun naming an action, quality, or state.	the mood or character of a place	Soft lighting gave the library a calm ambience.
286	amenity	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	a useful or pleasant feature of a place	Reliable internet became an essential amenity for the remote town.
287	amoral	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: amoral is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	unconcerned with whether behavior is right or wrong	The novel depicts the machine as amoral rather than deliberately cruel.
288	amorous	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	showing romantic affection or desire	The poet addressed each amorous sonnet to an unnamed beloved.
289	anguish	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: anguish is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	severe mental or physical suffering	The letter conveys a parent's anguish after the disappearance.
290	apocalyptic	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: apocalyptic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	describing complete destruction or the end of the world	The article rejects apocalyptic predictions unsupported by climate models.
291	apocryphal	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: apocryphal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	widely repeated but probably not true	The apocryphal story appears in no contemporary account.
292	appreciable	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	large enough to be noticed or measured	The treatment produced an appreciable decline in symptoms.
293	aptitude	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: aptitude is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a natural ability to learn or perform something	Her aptitude for spatial reasoning became clear in engineering class.
294	arbiter	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: arbiter is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a person with authority to settle a dispute	Both parties accepted the retired judge as a neutral arbiter.
295	artful	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: artful is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	cleverly or skillfully designed, sometimes to deceive	The candidate gave an artful answer that avoided the central issue.
296	artifice	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: artifice is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a clever device or strategy used to deceive	The memoir's apparent simplicity is a deliberate artifice.
297	ascendancy	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: ascendancy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a position of controlling influence or dominance	The party gained ascendancy after winning several regional elections.
298	atheist	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ist often names a person associated with a field, belief, or practice.	a person who does not believe in any deity	The essay compares the moral arguments of an atheist and a theologian.
299	attrition	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ition commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	a gradual reduction through loss or wearing away	Staff attrition left the agency unable to process applications quickly.
300	audacity	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	bold willingness to take a surprising risk	The plan's audacity attracted investors who valued innovation.
301	authoritarian	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: authoritarian is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	demanding strict obedience while limiting personal freedom	The authoritarian government banned independent newspapers.
302	avuncular	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: avuncular is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	kind and friendly in the manner of a helpful uncle	His avuncular advice reassured the nervous interns.
303	balk	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: balk is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to hesitate or refuse when faced with a demand	Taxpayers may balk at funding a project with no clear budget.
304	beget	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: beget is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to cause or produce something	Fear can beget secrecy, which in turn creates more fear.
305	benefactor	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: benefactor is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a person who gives money or help to a cause	An anonymous benefactor paid for the library's repairs.
306	benevolent	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: benevolent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	kind and motivated by a desire to do good	The foundation's benevolent mission includes free legal aid.
307	bequeath	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: bequeath is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to leave property to someone through a will	The collector chose to bequeath the paintings to a public museum.
308	bereft	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: bereft is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	deprived of something valuable or necessary	After the archive burned, historians were bereft of primary records.
309	blasphemy	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: blasphemy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	speech or action showing contempt for sacred beliefs	The novel examines a society in which blasphemy is punished by law.
310	blatant	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: blatant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	very obvious and offensive	The advertisement made a blatant attempt to disguise sponsorship as news.
311	blight	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: blight is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	something that damages, spoils, or causes decline	Abandoned buildings became a blight on the neighborhood.
312	blithe	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: blithe is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	showing casual indifference to possible harm	His blithe assurance ignored every warning from the engineers.
313	boorish	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: boorish is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	rude and insensitive in behavior	The guest's boorish interruptions ended the friendly conversation.
314	bourgeois	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: bourgeois is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	associated with conventional middle-class values or material concerns	The playwright mocked what she saw as bourgeois respectability.
315	bucolic	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: bucolic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	pleasantly describing country life or rural scenery	The poem presents a bucolic landscape untouched by industry.

Page 9 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 9.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. His elaborate accent was an _____ that disappeared among friends.

Answer: affectation

2. Environmental protection moved to the top of the council's _____.

Answer: agenda

3. The reform transformed an _____ economy into an industrial one.

Answer: agrarian

4. Bronze is an _____ of copper and tin.

Answer: alloy

5. Soft lighting gave the library a calm _____.

Answer: ambience

Page 10: words 316–350

Vocabulary page 10
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
316	meticulous	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	extremely careful about small details	The archivist kept meticulous records of every restored page.
317	juxtapose	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: juxtapose is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to place things side by side for comparison or contrast	The exhibit will juxtapose ancient tools with modern devices.
318	lucid	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: lucid is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	clear and easy to understand	A lucid diagram made the complex process manageable.
319	mitigate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: mitigate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to reduce the severity or harmful effect of something	Wetlands can mitigate flooding by absorbing excess water.
320	nuance	noun Study Field: Grade 6 academic reasoning word Word study: Base-form focus: nuance is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a small but important difference in meaning or feeling	The actor's quiet pause added nuance to the character's apology.
321	categorical	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: categorical is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	absolute, direct, and without exceptions	The minister issued a categorical denial of the allegation.
322	catharsis	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: catharsis is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	emotional release that brings relief	Writing the memoir provided catharsis after years of silence.
323	causal	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: causal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	relating to a cause-and-effect connection	The study found a correlation but not a causal relationship.
324	celibate	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: celibate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	choosing not to marry or engage in sexual relations	Members of the order take a celibate vow.
325	chagrin	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: chagrin is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	distress caused by embarrassment or disappointment	To his chagrin, the confident prediction proved false.
326	charlatan	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: charlatan is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a person who falsely claims special knowledge or skill	The supposed healer was exposed as a charlatan.
327	chasm	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: chasm is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a deep division or a wide physical gap	A chasm separated the parties on the question of land ownership.
328	chicanery	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: chicanery is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	deception accomplished through clever tricks or wording	Voters rejected the accounting chicanery hidden in the proposal.
329	chronic	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: chronic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	continuing for a long time or recurring often	Chronic water shortages forced the region to change its crops.
330	coercion	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: coercion is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	the use of force or threats to make someone act	A confession obtained through coercion cannot be trusted.
331	cognizant	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: cognizant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	aware of and attentive to something	The designers were cognizant of the building's historical importance.
332	subjugate	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: subjugate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to bring people under domination or control	The empire attempted to subjugate neighboring communities.
333	compendium	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: compendium is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a concise collection of information about a subject	The handbook is a compendium of regional plant species.
334	complacency	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: complacency is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	self-satisfaction that prevents awareness of danger	Years without an accident created dangerous complacency.
335	compliant	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: compliant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	willing to obey or meeting an established requirement	Only compliant equipment may enter the clean laboratory.
336	concise	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: concise is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	expressing much in few words	A concise conclusion restates the finding without repeating every detail.
337	conflagration	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ation commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	a large and destructive fire	A wind-driven conflagration destroyed several blocks.
338	conflate	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: conflate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to combine distinct ideas as though they were the same	The article tends to conflate legal authority with moral approval.
339	congenial	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: congenial is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	pleasant because of shared tastes or compatibility	The quiet archive was a congenial workplace for the historian.
340	sublime	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: sublime is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	so impressive or beautiful that it inspires awe	The symphony's final movement achieves a sublime calm.
341	consequential	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: consequential is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	having important results or effects	The seemingly minor vote became a consequential turning point.
342	consternation	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ation commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	sudden anxiety caused by an unexpected problem	The power failure caused consternation in the operating room.
343	consummate	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: consummate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	showing the highest degree of skill	A consummate diplomat, she found agreement where others saw only conflict.
344	contemptuous	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	showing that something is considered worthless	His contemptuous response discouraged further questions.
345	copious	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	abundant in amount or quantity	The researcher took copious notes during each interview.
346	cosmopolitan	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: cosmopolitan is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	familiar with and influenced by many cultures	The port developed a cosmopolitan population through centuries of trade.
347	covet	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: covet is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to desire something belonging to someone else	Rival states began to covet the island's strategic harbor.
348	credulous	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	too willing to believe unsupported claims	Credulous readers shared the fabricated story without checking it.
349	cronyism	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ism often names a belief, system, movement, or practice.	favoring friends with jobs or advantages	New hiring rules were intended to prevent cronyism.
350	debase	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: debase is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to lower the quality, dignity, or value of something	The critic argued that propaganda would debase public debate.

A Careful Revision

Reading practice for pages 10–12. Five relevant words are highlighted.

English reading

A meticulous editor decided to juxtapose two witnesses’ accounts rather than blend them into one summary. A short transition made the contrast lucid while preserving the nuance of each person’s experience. The editor also removed a sweeping claim that the evidence could not support. These revisions did not eliminate disagreement, but they did mitigate the risk that readers would mistake one perspective for the complete record.

Reading comprehension

1. Why does the editor juxtapose the accounts?

The editor wants to preserve the difference between the witnesses’ perspectives.

2. What does the transition accomplish?

It makes the contrast lucid while preserving nuance.

3. What risk do the revisions mitigate?

They mitigate the risk that one perspective will be mistaken for the complete record.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The archivist kept _____ records of every restored page.

Answer: meticulous

2. The exhibit will _____ ancient tools with modern devices.

Answer: juxtapose

3. A _____ diagram made the complex process manageable.

Answer: lucid

4. Wetlands can _____ flooding by absorbing excess water.

Answer: mitigate

5. The actor's quiet pause added _____ to the character's apology.

Answer: nuance

Page 11: words 351–385

Vocabulary page 11
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
351	debilitate	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: debilitate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make someone or something weak	The illness can debilitate patients for several months.
352	decadent	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: decadent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	showing moral or cultural decline through excess	The reformers condemned the court's decadent luxury.
353	decorum	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: decorum is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	behavior considered proper and respectful	The chair asked everyone to maintain decorum during the hearing.
354	subversive	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	seeking to undermine an established system	Authorities banned the pamphlet as subversive.
355	deferential	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: deferential is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	showing respectful submission to another	The aide remained deferential without abandoning her own judgment.
356	definitive	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	authoritative, conclusive, or serving as the final version	The biography is not definitive because key records remain sealed.
357	deft	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: deft is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	skillful, quick, and precise	With a deft transition, the essay moves from history to analysis.
358	demagogue	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: demagogue is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a leader who gains support by exploiting fear and prejudice	The novel warns how a demagogue can turn anxiety into hatred.
359	demarcate	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: demarcate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to mark the boundary or limits of something	Stone posts demarcate the protected area.
360	demure	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: demure is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	quiet, modest, and reserved in manner	Her demure public image contrasted with her daring private letters.
361	depravity	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	extreme moral corruption	The testimony revealed the depravity of the prison system.
362	deprecate	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: deprecate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to express disapproval of something	The guide does not deprecate tradition; it asks readers to examine it.
363	derelict	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: derelict is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	abandoned and in poor condition	The city converted a derelict warehouse into affordable studios.
364	desiccate	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: desiccate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to remove moisture or become completely dry	Hot winds can desiccate exposed soil.
365	desultory	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: desultory is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	lacking a clear plan, purpose, or consistency	Their desultory search overlooked the most likely location.
366	dichotomy	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: dichotomy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a division into two sharply contrasting groups or ideas	The essay rejects the false dichotomy between growth and conservation.
367	dictum	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: dictum is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a short authoritative statement or principle	The judge questioned the old dictum that silence implies consent.
368	digress	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: digress is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to move away from the main subject	The lecturer began to digress into a story unrelated to the evidence.
369	dilatory	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: dilatory is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	intended to cause delay or slow to act	The court rejected the company's dilatory request for another postponement.
370	dilettante	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: dilettante is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a person with only superficial knowledge of a subject	Experts dismissed him as a dilettante who ignored decades of research.
371	diminution	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -tion commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	a reduction in size, importance, or strength	The law caused a gradual diminution of the agency's power.
372	discomfit	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: discomfit is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make someone uneasy, embarrassed, or confused	The unexpected question seemed to discomfit the witness.
373	discordant	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: discordant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	in conflict or lacking harmony	The two reports offer discordant accounts of the same meeting.
374	disingenuous	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	not sincere, especially while pretending to be honest	It is disingenuous to call the fee optional when everyone must pay it.
375	divest	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: divest is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to remove possessions, authority, or financial interests	The fund promised to divest from companies that ignored the standards.
376	doctrinaire	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: doctrinaire is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	rigidly applying a theory without considering circumstances	The council rejected a doctrinaire solution that ignored local needs.
377	dubious	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	uncertain, questionable, or unlikely to be trustworthy	The website supports its claim with dubious statistics.
378	ebullient	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: ebullient is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	cheerful, energetic, and enthusiastic	The director was ebullient after the opening-night applause.
379	eccentric	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: eccentric is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	unconventional or slightly strange	The inventor's eccentric habits often concealed careful reasoning.
380	ecclesiastical	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: ecclesiastical is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	related to a church or its clergy	The archive preserves both royal and ecclesiastical records.
381	efface	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: efface is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to erase, remove, or make less noticeable	Time could not efface the inscription carved into the stone.
382	effervescent	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: effervescent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	lively, enthusiastic, and sparkling in manner	Her effervescent presentation energized the tired audience.
383	egalitarian	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: egalitarian is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	favoring equal rights and opportunities	The movement advanced an egalitarian vision of public education.
384	egocentric	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: egocentric is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	viewing everything mainly in relation to oneself	The narrator's egocentric account ignores other characters' motives.
385	succinct	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: succinct is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	brief yet clearly expressed	A succinct caption explains the graph.

Page 11 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 11.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The illness can _____ patients for several months.

Answer: debilitate

2. The reformers condemned the court's _____ luxury.

Answer: decadent

3. The chair asked everyone to maintain _____ during the hearing.

Answer: decorum

4. Authorities banned the pamphlet as _____.

Answer: subversive

5. The aide remained _____ without abandoning her own judgment.

Answer: deferential

Page 12: words 386–420

Vocabulary page 12
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
386	embellish	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: embellish is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to decorate or add invented details	The witness admitted that he had begun to embellish the story.
387	eminent	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: eminent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	highly respected and distinguished	An eminent biologist chaired the independent review.
388	encroach	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: encroach is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to gradually intrude on another area or right	New construction began to encroach on the protected wetland.
389	endemic	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: endemic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	regularly found in a particular place or group	The disease is endemic to several tropical regions.
390	enfranchise	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: enfranchise is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to grant voting rights or full participation	The amendment helped enfranchise millions of citizens.
391	entrenched	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: entrenched is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	firmly established and difficult to change	The reform challenged entrenched patterns of discrimination.
392	enumerate	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: enumerate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to list items one by one	The report will enumerate the costs before recommending a plan.
393	euphemism	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ism often names a belief, system, movement, or practice.	a mild expression substituted for one considered harsh	“Downsizing” can be a euphemism for eliminating jobs.
394	evanescent	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: evanescent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	quickly fading or disappearing	The rainbow's evanescent colors vanished within minutes.
395	superficial	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: superficial is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	concerned only with the surface and lacking depth	A superficial comparison ignores important historical differences.
396	exigent	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: exigent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	requiring urgent attention or action	Exigent circumstances forced the hospital to open an emergency ward.
397	exonerate	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: exonerate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to officially clear someone from blame	DNA evidence may exonerate the convicted man.
398	expedient	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: expedient is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	convenient for an immediate goal but possibly improper	The shortcut was expedient, yet it undermined public trust.
399	expound	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: expound is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to explain an idea in detail	The professor paused to expound the theory's central principle.
400	extemporaneous	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	spoken or performed without advance preparation	Her extemporaneous remarks were more persuasive than the prepared speech.
401	facetious	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	joking in a situation where seriousness is expected	His facetious answer frustrated residents seeking real information.
402	fatuous	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	foolish and lacking serious thought	The commentator's fatuous comparison ignored every relevant difference.
403	fervent	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: fervent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	showing intense and sincere feeling	A fervent appeal persuaded donors to support the shelter.
404	fiscal	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: fiscal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	related to government revenue, spending, or financial policy	The proposal combines environmental goals with fiscal restraint.
405	flagrant	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: flagrant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	shockingly obvious and offensive	The referee penalized the flagrant violation immediately.
406	flout	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: flout is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to openly disregard a rule or convention	Factories that flout pollution limits face substantial fines.
407	foment	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: foment is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to encourage the growth of conflict or rebellion	False rumors helped foment unrest in the capital.
408	forestall	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: forestall is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to prevent or delay something through advance action	Early repairs may forestall a complete structural failure.
409	formidable	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	inspiring respect or fear because of power or difficulty	The mountain presented a formidable challenge to the rescue team.
410	furtive	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	secretive because of guilt or fear of discovery	A furtive exchange in the hallway drew the guard's attention.
411	gainsay	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: gainsay is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to deny or contradict a fact or statement	No reliable witness could gainsay the engineer's account.
412	gauche	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: gauche is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	socially awkward or lacking tact	His gauche joke offended guests at the memorial.
413	grandiloquent	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: grandiloquent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	using language that sounds impressive but is overly elaborate	The proposal's grandiloquent promises concealed a modest plan.
414	grandiose	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: grandiose is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	impressive in appearance but unrealistic or self-important	The committee rejected a grandiose project that the town could not afford.
415	gratify	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ify commonly forms a verb meaning to make or become.	to please or satisfy someone	The strong response will gratify organizers who feared public indifference.
416	guile	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: guile is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	clever dishonesty used to achieve a goal	The fraudster relied on guile rather than force.
417	hallowed	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: hallowed is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	greatly respected and honored by tradition	The ceremony took place in a hallowed hall of learning.
418	harbinger	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: harbinger is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a sign that something is about to happen	The first migrating birds are a harbinger of spring.
419	hedonism	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ism often names a belief, system, movement, or practice.	the belief that pleasure is life's highest good	The novel contrasts hedonism with a life of public service.
420	hegemony	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: hegemony is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	dominant political or cultural influence over others	The empire maintained regional hegemony through trade and military power.

Page 12 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 12.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The witness admitted that he had begun to _____ the story.

Answer: embellish

2. An _____ biologist chaired the independent review.

Answer: eminent

3. New construction began to _____ on the protected wetland.

Answer: encroach

4. The disease is _____ to several tropical regions.

Answer: endemic

5. The amendment helped _____ millions of citizens.

Answer: enfranchise

Page 13: words 421–455

Vocabulary page 13
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
421	prudent	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: prudent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	showing careful judgment about future risk	Maintaining an emergency reserve is a prudent policy.
422	refute	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: refute is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to prove a claim or argument false	The later experiment did not refute the hypothesis; it exposed a design flaw.
423	rhetoric	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: rhetoric is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	language designed to persuade or produce an effect	The campaign's rhetoric emphasized unity while its policies divided voters.
424	salient	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: salient is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	most noticeable or relevant	The summary identifies the report's three most salient findings.
425	sanction	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: sanction is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to officially approve or impose a penalty on	The board must sanction any major change to the charter.
426	hubris	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: hubris is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	excessive pride that leads to failure	The tragedy portrays hubris as the ruler's fatal weakness.
427	hypothetical	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: hypothetical is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	based on an imagined possibility rather than known fact	The ethicist presented a hypothetical case to test the principle.
428	iconoclastic	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: iconoclastic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	challenging established beliefs or traditions	Her iconoclastic history questioned the reputation of a national hero.
429	idealize	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ize commonly forms a verb meaning to make, become, or apply.	to represent something as better or more perfect than it is	The memoir does not idealize village life.
430	ideology	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: ideology is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a system of political or social beliefs	The movement's ideology emphasized equality and public ownership.
431	idyllic	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: idyllic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	peaceful, beautiful, and seemingly perfect	The painting presents an idyllic vision of rural childhood.
432	ignominious	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	deserving or causing public shame	The army's retreat was an ignominious end to the campaign.
433	immutable	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	unable to change	The constitution is important but not immutable.
434	impassive	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	showing no visible emotion	The defendant remained impassive as the verdict was read.
435	impeccable	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	free from fault or error	The article's research was impeccable, though its conclusion remained debatable.
436	imperial	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: imperial is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	related to an empire or imperial rule	The museum reconsidered how it displayed objects acquired during imperial expansion.
437	imperious	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	arrogantly commanding and expecting obedience	The director's imperious tone silenced useful criticism.
438	imperturbable	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	remaining calm and untroubled	The imperturbable negotiator continued despite the insults.
439	impervious	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	not allowing something to pass through or have an effect	The coating is impervious to water.
440	impetuous	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	acting quickly without sufficient thought	An impetuous decision left the expedition without enough food.
441	impinge	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: impinge is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to have a harmful effect or intrude on something	The new rule may impinge on freedom of expression.
442	implacable	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	unable to be calmed or persuaded	The prosecutor remained an implacable opponent of corruption.
443	implement	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: implement is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to put a plan or decision into effect	The city will implement the recycling program next month.
444	implicate	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: implicate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to show that someone is involved in wrongdoing	The emails implicate several senior officials in the scheme.
445	impoverish	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: impoverish is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make a person, place, or system poorer	Unsustainable farming can impoverish both families and soil.
446	impropriety	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: impropriety is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	behavior that violates accepted moral or professional standards	The investigation found no evidence of financial impropriety.
447	impugn	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: impugn is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to challenge the honesty or validity of something	The lawyer tried to impugn the witness's motives.
448	inane	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: inane is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	lacking sense, meaning, or value	The interview was reduced to inane questions about clothing.
449	inaugurate	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: inaugurate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to formally begin a new system, period, or office	The exhibition will inaugurate the museum's new wing.
450	incandescent	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: incandescent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	brilliantly glowing or intensely passionate	Her incandescent anger transformed the final speech.
451	incendiary	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: incendiary is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	likely to cause fire, conflict, or strong anger	The leader's incendiary rhetoric increased tensions.
452	incipient	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: incipient is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	beginning to develop or exist	Early treatment stopped the incipient infection.
453	incisive	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	clear, direct, and intelligently analytical	Her incisive questions exposed the proposal's weakest assumption.
454	inconsequential	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: inconsequential is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	too unimportant to have a meaningful effect	A minor spelling error was inconsequential to the argument.
455	incorrigible	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ible means capable of, suitable for, or able to be affected.	unable or unwilling to be corrected	The novel's incorrigible trickster ignores every warning.

A Hearing Built on Evidence

Reading practice for pages 13–15. Five relevant words are highlighted.

English reading

At the public hearing, the chair established prudent rules that helped keep a contentious debate orderly. She asked each speaker to separate emotional rhetoric from verifiable claims and to address the most salient evidence first. One engineer used inspection records to refute the claim that the bridge was beyond repair. After reviewing the costs and safety plan, the council voted to sanction a limited restoration rather than authorize immediate demolition.

Reading comprehension

1. How does the chair keep the hearing orderly?

She asks speakers to separate rhetoric from verifiable claims and address salient evidence.

2. What evidence helps refute the demolition claim?

The engineer uses inspection records.

3. What does the council sanction?

The council sanctions a limited restoration.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. Maintaining an emergency reserve is a _____ policy.

Answer: prudent

2. The later experiment did not _____ the hypothesis; it exposed a design flaw.

Answer: refute

3. The campaign's _____ emphasized unity while its policies divided voters.

Answer: rhetoric

4. The summary identifies the report's three most _____ findings.

Answer: salient

5. The board must _____ any major change to the charter.

Answer: sanction

Page 14: words 456–490

Vocabulary page 14
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
456	incremental	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: incremental is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	occurring through small successive changes	The reform produced incremental improvements rather than dramatic results.
457	incumbent	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: incumbent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	required as a duty or responsibility	It is incumbent on researchers to protect participants' privacy.
458	indefatigable	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	able to continue without tiring	The indefatigable organizer visited every neighborhood.
459	indelible	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ible means capable of, suitable for, or able to be affected.	impossible to remove or forget	The disaster left an indelible mark on the community.
460	indigent	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: indigent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	extremely poor and lacking basic resources	The clinic provides free care to indigent patients.
461	indolent	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: indolent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	habitually lazy or inactive	The narrator condemns the indolent aristocrat who neglects his estate.
462	indomitable	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	impossible to defeat or discourage	Her indomitable spirit sustained the campaign through years of setbacks.
463	inequity	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	unfairness in the distribution of resources or opportunity	The policy seeks to reduce inequity in school funding.
464	inert	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: inert is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	unable or unlikely to move, react, or act	The chemical remains inert until it is heated.
465	inexorable	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	impossible to stop or prevent	The inexorable advance of the fire forced another evacuation.
466	infamy	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: infamy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a reputation for shameful or evil conduct	The massacre remains a symbol of political infamy.
467	infinitesimal	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: infinitesimal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	extremely small	The sensor can detect an infinitesimal change in pressure.
468	inflammatory	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: inflammatory is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	likely to provoke anger or conflict	The moderator rejected inflammatory language from both sides.
469	inimical	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: inimical is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	harmful or hostile to something	Secrecy is inimical to meaningful public oversight.
470	iniquity	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	gross injustice or immoral conduct	The novel exposes the iniquity of the forced-labor system.
471	innate	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: innate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	existing naturally from birth	The study asks whether musical ability is innate or learned.
472	insatiable	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	impossible to satisfy	Her insatiable curiosity led her into several fields of study.
473	insidious	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	gradually harmful in a way that is difficult to notice	The report describes the insidious effects of chronic lead exposure.
474	insipid	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: insipid is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	lacking flavor, energy, or interest	Critics found the adaptation visually attractive but insipid.
475	insolent	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: insolent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	boldly rude and disrespectful	The witness's insolent reply drew a warning from the judge.
476	instigate	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: instigate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to start or provoke an action, especially a harmful one	Agents attempted to instigate violence during the peaceful march.
477	intangible	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ible means capable of, suitable for, or able to be affected.	unable to be touched or precisely measured	Trust is an intangible asset that can vanish quickly.
478	interlocutor	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Prefix focus: inter- means between or among.	a person taking part in a dialogue	Each interlocutor challenges the other's assumptions.
479	interminable	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	continuing for so long that it seems endless	The negotiations became an interminable series of delays.
480	intractable	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	very difficult to manage or solve	Water scarcity remains an intractable problem in the region.
481	intransigent	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: intransigent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	unwilling to compromise or change	The intransigent factions rejected every proposed settlement.
482	intrepid	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: intrepid is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	fearless and adventurous	An intrepid journalist crossed the border to document the crisis.
483	intricate	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: intricate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	containing many complexly connected details	The clock's intricate mechanism required careful restoration.
484	inveterate	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: inveterate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	long-established and unlikely to change	An inveterate skeptic, she demanded evidence for every claim.
485	irascible	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ible means capable of, suitable for, or able to be affected.	easily angered	The irascible director was known for shouting at minor mistakes.
486	ironic	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: ironic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	strangely opposite to what is expected	It was ironic that the privacy conference exposed attendees' email addresses.
487	irreverent	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: irreverent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	showing playful or critical lack of respect	The comedian's irreverent history challenged national myths.
488	irrevocable	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	impossible to reverse or cancel	The court warned that the environmental damage could be irrevocable.
489	jargon	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: jargon is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	specialized language used by a profession or group	Medical jargon made the consent form hard to understand.
490	jettison	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: jettison is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to discard something no longer needed	The team decided to jettison the least practical part of the plan.

Page 14 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 14.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The reform produced _____ improvements rather than dramatic results.

Answer: incremental

2. It is _____ on researchers to protect participants' privacy.

Answer: incumbent

3. The _____ organizer visited every neighborhood.

Answer: indefatigable

4. The disaster left an _____ mark on the community.

Answer: indelible

5. The clinic provides free care to _____ patients.

Answer: indigent

Page 15: words 491–525

Vocabulary page 15
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
491	jocular	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: jocular is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	fond of joking and humor	His jocular tone eased tension before the serious discussion.
492	judicious	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	showing careful and sensible judgment	A judicious use of quotations strengthened the essay.
493	lament	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: lament is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to express sorrow or regret	Residents lament the loss of the historic theater.
494	laud	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: laud is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to praise someone or something highly	Reviewers laud the film's patient attention to ordinary lives.
495	lavish	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: lavish is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	abundant, elaborate, or generous	The palace's lavish decoration contrasted with the poverty outside.
496	lethargic	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: lethargic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	lacking energy or enthusiasm	The heat made the normally active animals lethargic.
497	levity	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: levity is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	humor that lightens a serious situation	A moment of levity helped the exhausted team continue.
498	liberal	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: liberal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	broad-minded or generous in amount	The editor took a liberal approach to unconventional spelling.
499	libertarian	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: libertarian is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	favoring individual freedom and limited government control	The essay compares libertarian and communitarian views of privacy.
500	licentious	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	ignoring accepted moral rules, especially in sexual behavior	Critics accused the court of licentious excess.
501	lionize	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ize commonly forms a verb meaning to make, become, or apply.	to treat someone as a celebrity or hero	The media began to lionize the athlete after one dramatic victory.
502	litigate	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: litigate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to resolve a dispute through legal action	The groups agreed to negotiate rather than litigate.
503	livid	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: livid is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	furiously angry	The residents were livid when officials concealed the test results.
504	loquacious	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	talking a great deal	The loquacious witness offered many details but few relevant facts.
505	lucrative	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	producing substantial profit	The patent became a lucrative source of revenue.
506	lurid	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: lurid is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	shocking, sensational, or vividly unpleasant	The newspaper used lurid details to attract attention.
507	magnanimous	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	generous and forgiving toward a rival	The winner was magnanimous and praised her opponent's campaign.
508	maladroit	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: maladroit is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	awkward and lacking skill or tact	His maladroit attempt at reconciliation caused a new dispute.
509	malaise	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: malaise is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a general feeling of discomfort or unease	Economic uncertainty created a national malaise.
510	malevolent	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: malevolent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	wishing to cause harm	The story's malevolent spirit feeds on the villagers' fear.
511	malign	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: malign is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to speak harmful falsehoods about someone	Anonymous accounts tried to malign the scientist.
512	mandate	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: mandate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	official authority or an order to act	The election gave the coalition a mandate for reform.
513	manifest	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: manifest is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	clear and obvious to the senses or mind	The plan's manifest flaws should have prevented approval.
514	martial	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: martial is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	related to war, soldiers, or military life	The parade's martial music echoed through the square.
515	martyr	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: martyr is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a person who suffers or dies for a belief or cause	The movement honored the imprisoned writer as a martyr.
516	maverick	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: maverick is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an independent person who rejects group conventions	The maverick senator opposed both parties on the issue.
517	maxim	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: maxim is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a short statement expressing a general rule of conduct	The physician followed the maxim “first, do no harm.”
518	meander	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: meander is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to follow a winding course or wander without direction	The essay begins to meander after its strong opening.
519	mercenary	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: mercenary is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	motivated mainly by money	The critic called the endorsement a mercenary decision.
520	metaphysical	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: metaphysical is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	concerned with reality beyond what can be observed physically	The dialogue raises metaphysical questions about identity.
521	misanthropic	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: misanthropic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	distrustful or contemptuous of humanity	The novel's misanthropic narrator expects selfish motives from everyone.
522	mollify	verb Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ify commonly forms a verb meaning to make or become.	to calm anger or anxiety	A sincere apology helped mollify the offended guests.
523	morose	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: morose is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	gloomy and unsociable	The character grows morose after losing his position.
524	polarize	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ize commonly forms a verb meaning to make, become, or apply.	to divide people into sharply opposing groups	Sensational coverage may polarize public opinion.
525	myopic	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: myopic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	lacking foresight or considering only immediate concerns	The panel rejected the myopic plan to cut all preventive maintenance.

Page 15 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 15.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. His _____ tone eased tension before the serious discussion.

Answer: jocular

2. A _____ use of quotations strengthened the essay.

Answer: judicious

3. Residents _____ the loss of the historic theater.

Answer: lament

4. Reviewers _____ the film's patient attention to ordinary lives.

Answer: laud

5. The palace's _____ decoration contrasted with the poverty outside.

Answer: lavish

Page 16: words 526–560

Vocabulary page 16
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
526	amenable	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	willing to agree or responsive to change	The board was amenable to a compromise supported by both groups.
527	antipathy	noun Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Prefix focus: anti- means against or opposed to.	a strong feeling of dislike	Her antipathy toward dishonesty shaped every hiring decision.
528	astute	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: astute is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	quick to notice and understand important details	An astute editor recognized the argument's hidden assumption.
529	circumvent	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: circumvent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to avoid a rule or obstacle through clever action	The company tried to circumvent the ban by changing the product's name.
530	intermittent	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: intermittent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	stopping and starting at irregular intervals	Intermittent rain delayed the excavation throughout the week.
531	nominal	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: nominal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	existing in name but not in meaningful reality	She remained the nominal leader while advisers made every decision.
532	nostalgia	noun Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: nostalgia is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a sentimental longing for the past	The advertisement uses nostalgia to sell a modern product.
533	novel	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: novel is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	new, original, or unusual	The researchers proposed a novel method of filtering seawater.
534	noxious	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	harmful or poisonous	The factory released noxious fumes into the valley.
535	obdurate	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Base-form focus: obdurate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	stubbornly refusing to change	The obdurate ruler rejected every appeal for mercy.
536	redistribute	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: redistribute is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to distribute resources or power in a different way	The tax is designed to redistribute some wealth toward public services.
537	oblique	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: oblique is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	indirect or not straightforward	Her oblique reference to the scandal puzzled new readers.
538	obsequious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	excessively eager to please someone powerful	The manager's obsequious praise made the visiting official uncomfortable.
539	obstinate	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: obstinate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	stubbornly refusing to change an opinion or course	The obstinate negotiator ignored every compromise.
540	obviate	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: obviate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to remove a need or prevent a difficulty	Remote sensors may obviate the need for daily site visits.
541	occlude	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: occlude is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to block or close an opening or view	A blood clot can occlude a narrow artery.
542	odious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: odious is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	deserving intense dislike	The law's odious discrimination provoked widespread resistance.
543	officious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	intrusively eager to give unwanted orders or help	An officious clerk demanded forms that the policy did not require.
544	onerous	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	requiring an unreasonable amount of effort or responsibility	Small charities struggled with the onerous reporting rules.
545	opulent	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: opulent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	richly luxurious and expensive	The ruler's opulent palace contrasted with nearby hunger.
546	orthodox	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: orthodox is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	following established beliefs or accepted methods	The discovery challenged the orthodox explanation of migration.
547	oscillate	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: oscillate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to move back and forth or alternate between positions	Public opinion may oscillate as new evidence appears.
548	ostentatious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	designed to attract attention by displaying wealth or importance	The donor avoided an ostentatious ceremony.
549	ostracize	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ize commonly forms a verb meaning to make, become, or apply.	to exclude someone from a group or society	Classmates began to ostracize anyone who questioned the rumor.
550	pacify	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: pacify is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to calm anger or restore peace	The agreement failed to pacify communities that lacked representation.
551	palliative	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: palliative is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	something that relieves symptoms without curing the cause	The subsidy was a temporary palliative, not an economic solution.
552	panacea	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: panacea is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a supposed remedy for every problem	Technology is not a panacea for unequal access to education.
553	paradigmatic	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: paradigmatic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	serving as a clear or typical model	The case became paradigmatic of failures in corporate oversight.
554	parody	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: parody is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a humorous imitation that exaggerates a style	The sketch is a parody of solemn campaign advertisements.
555	patent	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: patent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	obvious and unmistakable	The claim's patent absurdity drew immediate criticism.
556	pedantic	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: pedantic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	overly concerned with minor rules or displaying learning	The pedantic review corrected commas but ignored the argument.
557	penchant	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: penchant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a strong habitual liking	The director has a penchant for adapting obscure novels.
558	penitent	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: penitent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	feeling sincere regret for wrongdoing	The penitent official returned the money and resigned.
559	perennial	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: perennial is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	lasting for many years or repeatedly recurring	Water access remains a perennial concern in the region.
560	perfidious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	deliberately disloyal or deceitful	The allies condemned the secret agreement as perfidious.

A Difficult Negotiation

Reading practice for pages 16–18. Five relevant words are highlighted.

English reading

Months of intermittent talks had produced more antipathy than progress. An astute mediator noticed that both sides feared the same supply shortage, although neither had said so directly. She refused to circumvent the disputed issue; instead, she divided it into smaller decisions with clear deadlines. Neither delegation welcomed every condition, but both became more amenable to compromise because the agreement protected their most important interests.

Reading comprehension

1. What common concern does the mediator identify?

She identifies a shared fear of a supply shortage.

2. How does she handle the disputed issue?

She divides it into smaller decisions instead of trying to circumvent it.

3. Why do both delegations become more amenable to compromise?

The agreement protects their most important interests.

Page 17: words 561–595

Vocabulary page 17
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
561	peripatetic	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: peripatetic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	traveling from place to place, especially for work	The peripatetic lecturer spoke at universities on three continents.
562	pernicious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	gradually causing serious harm	The report documents the pernicious effects of housing discrimination.
563	perpetuate	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: perpetuate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to cause something to continue indefinitely	Biased data can perpetuate unfair decisions.
564	pertinent	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: pertinent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	directly relevant to the subject	The judge allowed only pertinent testimony.
565	pervasive	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	spreading throughout an area or group	A pervasive odor indicated contamination throughout the building.
566	petulant	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: petulant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	childishly irritable or rude	The minister's petulant response intensified the criticism.
567	philanthropy	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: philanthropy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	the practice of giving resources to promote public welfare	Her philanthropy supported clinics and public libraries.
568	philistine	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: philistine is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a person indifferent or hostile to art and culture	The critic unfairly called every popular reader a philistine.
569	piety	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: piety is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	devotion to religious duty or moral principle	The portrait presents the queen as a model of piety.
570	placate	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: placate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make an angry person calmer	Officials offered refunds to placate frustrated travelers.
571	plasticity	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	the ability to be shaped, changed, or reorganized	Brain plasticity allows learning to alter neural pathways.
572	platitude	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: platitude is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an overused statement presented as meaningful	The speech offered a platitude instead of a concrete policy.
573	plethora	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: plethora is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a quantity greater than is needed	The archive contains a plethora of letters but few financial records.
574	poignant	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: poignant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	causing a strong feeling of sadness or reflection	The empty shoes form a poignant memorial.
575	polemical	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: polemical is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	strongly attacking or defending a controversial position	The author's polemical tone leaves little room for uncertainty.
576	pragmatism	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ism often names a belief, system, movement, or practice.	an approach that judges ideas by practical results	Fiscal pressure encouraged pragmatism over ideological purity.
577	precipitous	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	dangerously steep or occurring very rapidly	The company experienced a precipitous decline in sales.
578	predilection	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -tion commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	a preference formed in advance	The editor's predilection for short essays shaped the journal.
579	presumptuous	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	excessively bold in assuming authority or privilege	It was presumptuous to announce the decision before the board voted.
580	prodigious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	remarkably great in size, amount, or ability	The scholar possessed a prodigious memory for dates.
581	proliferate	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: proliferate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to increase or spread rapidly	Unverified reports began to proliferate online.
582	propensity	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	a natural tendency to behave in a certain way	The material has a propensity to crack in extreme cold.
583	propitious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	indicating favorable conditions or a good chance of success	Calm weather made the morning propitious for launch.
584	proponent	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: proponent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a person who supports an idea or plan	A leading proponent of the reform addressed the committee.
585	propriety	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: propriety is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	behavior that is socially or morally appropriate	The inquiry questioned the propriety of accepting expensive gifts.
586	proscribe	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: proscribe is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to officially forbid something	The treaty will proscribe the use of certain weapons.
587	proselytize	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ize commonly forms a verb meaning to make, become, or apply.	to try to convert someone to a belief or cause	The organization may inform visitors but cannot proselytize in the school.
588	provincial	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: provincial is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	narrow in outlook or related to a region outside the capital	The narrator initially holds a provincial view of the wider world.
589	proportional	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: proportional is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	changing in a constant ratio with something else	Fuel use is roughly proportional to distance traveled.
590	heresy	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: heresy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a belief that strongly opposes an established doctrine	At the time, questioning the model was treated as scientific heresy.
591	punctilious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	extremely attentive to rules and formal details	The punctilious diplomat observed every protocol.
592	quandary	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: quandary is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a state of uncertainty over a difficult choice	Conflicting duties left the physician in a moral quandary.
593	querulous	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	frequently complaining in an irritable way	The querulous narrator finds fault with every neighbor.
594	rancor	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: rancor is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	long-lasting bitterness or resentment	The agreement ended the lawsuit but not the rancor.
595	rarefied	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: rarefied is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	understood by or available to only a select group	The article brings rarefied theory into public discussion.

Page 18: words 596–630

Vocabulary page 18
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
596	recalcitrant	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: recalcitrant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	stubbornly resisting authority or control	The recalcitrant company ignored repeated safety orders.
597	recant	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: recant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to publicly withdraw a former belief or statement	Under pressure, the witness agreed to recant the accusation.
598	recluse	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: recluse is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a person who deliberately lives apart from others	The artist became a recluse late in life.
599	recondite	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: recondite is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	little known and difficult to understand	The lecture explored a recondite dispute in medieval law.
600	redress	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: redress is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a remedy or compensation for a wrong	The victims sought legal redress for the unlawful seizure.
601	redundant	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: redundant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	unnecessary because it repeats or duplicates something	The editor removed a redundant paragraph.
602	relegate	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: relegate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to assign someone or something to a lower position	The new history does not relegate women to a footnote.
603	salinity	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	the amount of salt dissolved in water or soil	Drought increased the estuary's salinity.
604	renounce	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: renounce is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to formally give up a claim, belief, or practice	The candidate refused to renounce her earlier position.
605	replete	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: replete is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	completely filled or abundantly supplied	The diary is replete with detailed observations.
606	reprehensible	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ible means capable of, suitable for, or able to be affected.	deserving strong moral criticism	The court described the deliberate deception as reprehensible.
607	reproach	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: reproach is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an expression of blame or disappointment	Her quiet reproach affected him more than anger would have.
608	repudiate	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: repudiate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to reject the truth, validity, or authority of something	The party moved to repudiate the discriminatory policy.
609	rescind	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: rescind is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to officially cancel a law, decision, or agreement	The agency may rescind the permit after the violation.
610	reticent	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: reticent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	reluctant to speak or reveal one's thoughts	The normally reticent scientist agreed to an interview.
611	revere	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: revere is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to feel deep respect and admiration for someone	Many residents revere the physician who founded the clinic.
612	heterogeneous	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	composed of varied and unlike elements	The city has a heterogeneous population with many languages and traditions.
613	rudimentary	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: rudimentary is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	basic and not fully developed	The settlement had only rudimentary sanitation.
614	sagacious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	showing wise and practical judgment	The sagacious adviser anticipated the treaty's unintended effects.
615	homogeneous	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	consisting of similar or uniform elements	The supposedly homogeneous sample actually contained several distinct groups.
616	scathing	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: scathing is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	severely and devastatingly critical	The inspector issued a scathing report on prison conditions.
617	schism	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: schism is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a serious division within an organization or belief system	The dispute caused a lasting schism in the movement.
618	secular	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: secular is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	not religious or connected with religious institutions	The constitution establishes a secular government.
619	sequester	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: sequester is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to isolate, hide, or set apart	The judge may sequester the jury during the trial.
620	servile	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: servile is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	excessively submissive and eager to obey	The essay criticizes the court's servile dependence on the monarch.
621	singular	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: singular is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	remarkably unusual or exceptional	The archive offers a singular record of daily life during the occupation.
622	skepticism	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ism often names a belief, system, movement, or practice.	a questioning attitude toward claims or evidence	Healthy skepticism led researchers to repeat the surprising experiment.
623	solicitous	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	showing attentive concern for another's welfare	The solicitous nurse explained each procedure calmly.
624	soporific	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: soporific is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	causing sleep or extreme boredom	The speaker's soporific delivery emptied the hall.
625	specious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	appearing convincing but actually false	The advertisement relies on a specious comparison.
626	spurious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	false, fake, or not based on valid reasoning	The journal withdrew the article after finding spurious data.
627	staid	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: staid is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	serious, respectable, and unadventurous	The staid institution surprised everyone with an experimental exhibition.
628	stigma	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: stigma is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a mark of shame or social disgrace	Public education can reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.
629	stoic	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: stoic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	enduring pain or difficulty without complaint	Her stoic response concealed deep grief.
630	strident	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: strident is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	loud, forceful, and harsh	The debate's strident tone discouraged thoughtful exchange.

Page 19: words 631–665

Vocabulary page 19
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
631	compelling	adjective Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: compelling is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	powerfully convincing or able to hold attention	The documentary offers compelling evidence from newly opened archives.
632	conjecture	noun Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: conjecture is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an explanation or opinion based on incomplete evidence	The claim remains conjecture until the documents are authenticated.
633	decry	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: decry is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to publicly condemn something	Health advocates decry advertising that targets young children.
634	elucidate	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: elucidate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make an idea clear through explanation	A timeline helps elucidate the sequence of discoveries.
635	evince	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: evince is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to clearly show a quality or feeling	The letters evince deep concern for displaced families.
636	superfluous	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	more than necessary or useful	The editor removed every superfluous adjective.
637	surfeit	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: surfeit is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an excessive amount	A surfeit of examples made the argument harder to follow.
638	surreptitious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	done secretly to avoid notice	The camera recorded a surreptitious exchange of documents.
639	sycophant	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: sycophant is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a person who flatters the powerful for personal gain	The ruler surrounded himself with each sycophant who praised every decision.
640	synthesis	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: synthesis is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a combination of ideas that forms a new whole	The essay offers a synthesis of archaeological and linguistic evidence.
641	tacit	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: tacit is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	understood without being openly stated	Their silence gave tacit approval to the change.
642	taciturn	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: taciturn is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	habitually speaking very little	The taciturn witness answered in brief phrases.
643	tangential	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: tangential is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	only slightly related to the main point	The editor removed a tangential discussion of the author's childhood.
644	tantamount	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: tantamount is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	equivalent in effect or meaning	Ignoring the warning was tantamount to accepting the risk.
645	tautological	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: tautological is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	needlessly repeating the same idea in different words	The phrase “future plans” can be tautological in some contexts.
646	temerity	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	reckless boldness	She had the temerity to challenge the ruler in public.
647	tenacious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	persistent and unwilling to give up	A tenacious investigator followed the evidence for years.
648	tenet	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: tenet is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a central belief or principle	Equal treatment is a basic tenet of the organization.
649	tenuous	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	very weak, slight, or uncertain	The article draws a tenuous link between the two events.
650	terse	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: terse is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	brief and direct, sometimes seeming unfriendly	The official issued a terse denial.
651	torpor	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: torpor is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a state of physical or mental inactivity	Winter cold sends the animal into torpor.
652	transcend	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: transcend is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to go beyond an ordinary limit or category	The novel's themes transcend its historical setting.
653	transgress	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Prefix focus: trans- means across, through, or beyond.	to violate a moral boundary or rule	The character must decide whether justice permits her to transgress the law.
654	transient	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: transient is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	lasting for only a short time	The economic benefit proved transient.
655	trepidation	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ation commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	fear or anxiety about what may happen	With some trepidation, the team opened the sealed chamber.
656	ubiquitous	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	present or appearing almost everywhere	Smartphones have become ubiquitous in many communities.
657	unctuous	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	excessively flattering in an insincere way	The salesman's unctuous compliments made buyers suspicious.
658	unremitting	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: unremitting is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	continuing without pause or relief	Unremitting rain caused the river to overflow.
659	urbane	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: urbane is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	polished, courteous, and sophisticated	The urbane host moved easily among diplomats and artists.
660	usurp	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: usurp is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to seize power or a position without legal right	The general attempted to usurp the elected government's authority.
661	utilitarian	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: utilitarian is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	designed for practical usefulness rather than beauty	The building's utilitarian design prioritized durability.
662	utopia	noun Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: utopia is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an imagined perfect society	The novel's apparent utopia depends on hidden coercion.
663	vacillate	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: vacillate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to alternate indecisively between choices	The council continued to vacillate between renovation and demolition.
664	vapid	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: vapid is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	lacking liveliness, interest, or substance	The adaptation reduced a complex novel to vapid romance.
665	vehement	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: vehement is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	showing strong and forceful feeling	Residents voiced vehement opposition to the highway.

Reading the Evidence in the Ground

Reading practice for pages 19–21. Five relevant words are highlighted.

English reading

When archaeologists uncovered a burned doorway, newspapers quickly began to decry the site as evidence of a violent invasion. The excavation director warned that this conclusion was still a conjecture. Charred grain and collapsed roof beams did evince a sudden fire, but they could not identify its cause. A later soil analysis helped elucidate the sequence of events and offered a more compelling explanation: an accidental kitchen fire had spread during a drought.

Reading comprehension

1. Why does the director call the invasion claim a conjecture?

The evidence shows a fire but does not identify its cause.

2. What do the charred materials evince?

They evince that a sudden fire occurred.

3. What explanation does the soil analysis support?

It supports the explanation that an accidental kitchen fire spread during a drought.

Page 20: words 666–700

Vocabulary page 20
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
666	venal	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: venal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	willing to act dishonestly for money	The investigation exposed venal officials who sold permits.
667	venerate	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: venerate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to regard with deep respect	Many scientists venerate the pioneer without accepting every theory he proposed.
668	verbose	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: verbose is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	using more words than necessary	The verbose report hid its conclusion in fifty pages.
669	verisimilitude	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: verisimilitude is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	the appearance of being real or true	Accurate period details give the film verisimilitude.
670	vernacular	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: vernacular is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	the everyday language of a region or group	The poet wrote in the local vernacular rather than formal Latin.
671	vestige	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: vestige is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a small remaining trace of something that has disappeared	The ruined gate is the last vestige of the old wall.
672	vex	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: vex is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to annoy, frustrate, or puzzle	The contradictory clues continued to vex investigators.
673	vicarious	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	experienced through another person's actions or feelings	Readers share the explorer's vicarious thrill through the vivid diary.
674	vicissitude	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: vicissitude is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a change in circumstances, often an unwelcome one	The business survived every economic vicissitude.
675	vilify	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: vilify is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to speak about someone as though they were evil	The campaign tried to vilify critics instead of answering them.
676	vindicate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: vindicate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to clear from blame or prove correct	Later evidence may vindicate the scientist's disputed prediction.
677	vindictive	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	seeking revenge in a cruel or persistent way	The leader used vindictive prosecutions against former rivals.
678	virulent	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: virulent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	extremely harmful, hostile, or infectious	A virulent strain spread rapidly through the crop.
679	vitiate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: vitiate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to weaken, spoil, or make legally invalid	Coercion can vitiate an agreement.
680	vitriolic	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: vitriolic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	filled with bitter and abusive criticism	The platform removed several vitriolic threats.
681	vocation	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -tion commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	a career or way of life felt to be a calling	She regarded teaching as a vocation rather than merely a job.
682	vociferous	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	expressing opinions loudly and forcefully	A vociferous minority dominated the meeting.
683	volatile	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: volatile is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	likely to change suddenly or become dangerous	The ceasefire remains volatile.
684	volition	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -tion commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	the power to choose or act willingly	The witness signed the statement of her own volition.
685	wanton	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: wanton is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	deliberate and without concern for harm	The law punished wanton destruction of protected habitat.
686	willful	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: willful is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	deliberate or stubbornly intentional	The court found a willful violation of the disclosure rule.
687	wistful	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: wistful is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	showing gentle sadness or longing	His wistful memoir recalls a neighborhood that no longer exists.
688	zealous	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	showing intense enthusiasm for a cause	A zealous reformer may still need to consider unintended effects.
689	accretion	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -tion commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	gradual growth through the addition of material	The island formed by the accretion of sand and sediment.
690	adjudicate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: adjudicate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make a formal judgment in a dispute	An independent panel will adjudicate the competing claims.
691	adsorb	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: adsorb is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to hold molecules on a surface	Activated carbon can adsorb pollutants from water.
692	alluvial	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: alluvial is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	formed from sediment deposited by flowing water	Farmers value the fertile alluvial soil near the river.
693	amalgamate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: amalgamate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to combine separate groups or things into one	The district plans to amalgamate three small libraries.
694	anthropogenic	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: anthropogenic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	caused by human activity	The study separates natural variation from anthropogenic warming.
695	buffer	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: buffer is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	something that reduces the effect of a shock or conflict	Savings provide a buffer against sudden unemployment.
696	capitulate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: capitulate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to stop resisting and accept an opponent's terms	The isolated army was forced to capitulate.
697	codify	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: codify is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to arrange rules or principles into an organized system	The new statute will codify protections developed by earlier courts.
698	commodify	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ify commonly forms a verb meaning to make or become.	to turn something into a product that can be bought and sold	Critics argue that the platform will commodify personal attention.
699	concentric	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: concentric is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	sharing the same center	The impact produced concentric circles in the ice.
700	confound	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: confound is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to confuse or prevent a clear conclusion	An unmeasured variable could confound the experiment.

Page 21: words 701–735

Vocabulary page 21
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
701	consolidate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: consolidate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to combine and strengthen separate parts	The agency will consolidate its records in one secure archive.
702	constitutive	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	forming an essential part of something	Shared rituals are constitutive of the community's identity.
703	contingent	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: contingent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	dependent on a condition that may or may not occur	Funding is contingent on independent review.
704	adroit	adjective Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: adroit is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	skillful, clever, and quick in thought or action	Her adroit response redirected the tense interview toward useful facts.
705	decompose	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: decompose is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to break down into simpler parts or substances	Fungi decompose fallen wood.
706	demographic	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: demographic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	related to the statistical characteristics of a population	The survey revealed a major demographic shift.
707	disaggregate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: disaggregate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to separate combined data into smaller categories	Researchers disaggregate the results by age and region.
708	displacement	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ment commonly forms a noun for an action, process, state, or result.	the forced movement of people or a shift in position	The dam caused the displacement of several villages.
709	efficacy	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: efficacy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	the ability to produce an intended result	The trial measured the vaccine's efficacy.
710	elasticity	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	the ability to return to shape or respond to a changing variable	Price elasticity describes how demand changes when cost changes.
711	equilibrium	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: equilibrium is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a stable condition in which opposing forces are balanced	The reaction reaches equilibrium when both rates become equal.
712	exogenous	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	originating from outside a system	The model treats global oil prices as an exogenous factor.
713	exponential	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: exponential is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	increasing at an accelerating proportional rate	The bacteria showed exponential growth under ideal conditions.
714	externality	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	a cost or benefit imposed on people outside a transaction	Air pollution is a negative externality of fossil-fuel use.
715	formative	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	shaping the development of a person or thing	Living abroad was a formative experience for the writer.
716	fungible	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ible means capable of, suitable for, or able to be affected.	interchangeable with another item of the same type	Money is fungible because one dollar can replace another.
717	genealogy	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: genealogy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	the study or record of descent and origin	The scholar traces the genealogy of the political concept.
718	gradient	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: gradient is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a rate of change across distance or a slope	A steep temperature gradient formed near the front.
719	heuristic	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: heuristic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a practical method that aids discovery but does not guarantee a result	The doctor used a heuristic to prioritize urgent cases.
720	homeostasis	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: homeostasis is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	the maintenance of a stable internal condition	Sweating helps the body preserve homeostasis.
721	hydraulic	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: hydraulic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	operated by liquid moving under pressure	A hydraulic lift raised the heavy platform.
722	incentive	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: incentive is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	something that encourages a particular action	The rebate provides an incentive to conserve energy.
723	incidence	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ence commonly forms a noun naming an action, quality, or state.	the frequency at which something occurs	Vaccination reduced the incidence of the disease.
724	inelastic	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: inelastic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	not responding greatly to a change in price or force	Demand for basic medicine can be relatively inelastic.
725	infrastructure	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: infrastructure is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	the basic systems and facilities a society needs	Flooding damaged roads and other infrastructure.
726	interdependent	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Prefix focus: inter- means between or among.	depending on one another	Pollinators and flowering plants are interdependent.
727	isotope	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: isotope is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a form of an element with a different number of neutrons	Scientists used a radioactive isotope to date the sample.
728	kinetic	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: kinetic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	related to motion	A moving vehicle possesses kinetic energy.
729	longitudinal	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: longitudinal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	tracking the same subjects over an extended time	A longitudinal study followed the children for twenty years.
730	macroeconomic	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Prefix focus: macro- means large-scale.	related to the economy as a whole	The report examines macroeconomic trends in inflation and employment.
731	microcosm	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: microcosm is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a small system that represents a larger one	The port is a microcosm of the nation's cultural diversity.
732	multilateral	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Prefix focus: multi- means many.	involving several countries or parties	The treaty requires multilateral cooperation.
733	normative	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	concerned with what ought to be rather than what merely exists	The essay distinguishes descriptive claims from normative judgments.
734	oscillation	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ation commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	repeated movement or variation between two states	The graph shows a regular oscillation in temperature.
735	outlier	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: outlier is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a value or case far from the general pattern	One unusually high score was an outlier.

Page 22: words 736–770

Vocabulary page 22
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
736	multifaceted	adjective Study Field: GRE transitions and expression of ideas Word study: Prefix focus: multi- means many.	having many different features or aspects	Poverty is a multifaceted problem requiring more than one solution.
737	provisional	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: provisional is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	temporary and subject to later confirmation	The committee issued a provisional schedule.
738	obfuscate	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: obfuscate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make something unclear or difficult to understand	Dense terminology can obfuscate a weak argument.
739	parsimonious	adjective Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	extremely unwilling to spend resources	The parsimonious board delayed necessary repairs.
740	relinquish	verb Study Field: GRE literature, history, and humanities Word study: Base-form focus: relinquish is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to voluntarily give up control or possession	The ruler refused to relinquish emergency powers.
741	sequestration	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ation commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	the capture and long-term storage of something	Forest conservation supports carbon sequestration.
742	stratify	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ify commonly forms a verb meaning to make or become.	to arrange or divide into layers or social levels	Unequal access can stratify a society by wealth.
743	subsistence	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ence commonly forms a noun naming an action, quality, or state.	the minimum resources needed to remain alive	The family relied on subsistence farming.
744	symbiotic	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: symbiotic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	involving a close relationship that benefits both organisms	The fungi and tree roots form a symbiotic partnership.
745	systemic	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: systemic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	affecting an entire system rather than one part	The audit identified systemic failures in oversight.
746	threshold	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: threshold is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	the point at which an effect begins or a condition changes	The signal must cross a threshold before the alarm sounds.
747	trajectory	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: trajectory is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	the path of movement or course of development	The policy changed the city's economic trajectory.
748	viscosity	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	a fluid's resistance to flowing	Cooling increases the oil's viscosity.
749	abrogate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: abrogate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to formally cancel or end a law or agreement	The legislature voted to abrogate the outdated treaty.
750	acquisitive	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ive commonly forms an adjective meaning having a quality or tendency.	eager to gain possessions or wealth	The satire mocks an acquisitive society that measures worth by ownership.
751	adventitious	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	arising by chance rather than as an essential part	An adventitious discovery redirected the entire investigation.
752	apprise	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: apprise is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to inform someone about a situation	The attorney promised to apprise the family of every development.
753	arrogate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: arrogate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to claim authority or a right without justification	The governor cannot arrogate powers reserved for the courts.
754	atonement	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ment commonly forms a noun for an action, process, state, or result.	an action that makes amends for wrongdoing	His public service became an attempt at atonement.
755	attenuation	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ation commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	a reduction in strength, force, or intensity	The wall produced measurable attenuation of the sound.
756	bifurcate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: bifurcate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to divide into two branches or parts	The trail will bifurcate near the ridge.
757	broach	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: broach is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to introduce a sensitive subject for discussion	She waited until dinner ended to broach the funding dispute.
758	buttress	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: buttress is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to strengthen or support an argument or structure	The newly found letters buttress the historian's interpretation.
759	cadge	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: cadge is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to obtain something by persistent asking rather than payment	The traveler tried to cadge a meal from the innkeeper.
760	capitulation	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ation commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	the act of surrendering or yielding	The treaty marked the army's complete capitulation.
761	cogitate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: cogitate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to think deeply and carefully	The philosopher would cogitate for hours before writing a paragraph.
762	complicity	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ity commonly forms a noun naming a quality, state, or condition.	involvement in or responsibility for wrongdoing	The documents revealed the bank's complicity in the fraud.
763	concord	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: concord is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	peaceful agreement or harmony	The settlement restored a measure of concord between the communities.
764	conduit	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: conduit is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a channel through which something passes	The river served as a conduit for trade and ideas.
765	conundrum	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: conundrum is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a difficult and confusing problem	The need for growth without more pollution presents a conundrum.
766	corporeal	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: corporeal is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	related to the physical body rather than the spirit	The poem contrasts corporeal desire with spiritual aspiration.
767	cosset	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: cosset is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to protect or indulge someone excessively	The program should support students without trying to cosset them.
768	daunt	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: daunt is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make someone feel intimidated or discouraged	The scale of the archive did not daunt the researcher.
769	denouement	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ment commonly forms a noun for an action, process, state, or result.	the final resolution of a story's plot	The mystery's denouement reveals why the witness lied.
770	depredation	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ation commonly forms a noun naming an action, process, or result.	damage caused by attack, plunder, or destructive use	The forest still bears signs of wartime depredation.

The Cost of an Unclear Contract

Reading practice for pages 22–23. Five relevant words are highlighted.

English reading

A small publisher received a provisional distribution offer, but the contract was unusually multifaceted. Its repeated cross-references seemed designed to obfuscate the true royalty rate. The distributor also proved parsimonious about production support while demanding broad control over future editions. After legal review, the publisher refused to relinquish those rights. Walking away sacrificed immediate income, but it preserved the freedom to negotiate a clearer and fairer agreement.

Reading comprehension

1. Why is the provisional offer difficult to evaluate?

The contract is multifaceted and appears to obfuscate the true royalty rate.

2. In what way is the distributor parsimonious?

The distributor offers very little production support.

3. What does the publisher refuse to relinquish?

The publisher refuses to relinquish control over future editions.

Page 23: words 771–800

Vocabulary page 23
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
771	descry	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: descry is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to notice or discover something difficult to see	From the tower, scouts could descry a sail on the horizon.
772	detente	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: detente is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an easing of hostile relations	The cultural exchange contributed to a brief detente.
773	diaphanous	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	light, delicate, and almost transparent	A diaphanous curtain moved in the breeze.
774	dissemble	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: dissemble is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to hide one's true feelings or intentions	The diplomat tried to dissemble her alarm.
775	ebullience	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ence commonly forms a noun naming an action, quality, or state.	lively enthusiasm	The crowd's ebullience continued long after the victory.
776	efficacious	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	successful in producing the intended result	The trial found the treatment safe and efficacious.
777	encomium	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: encomium is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a speech or piece of writing that gives high praise	The retirement dinner included an encomium to the professor's mentorship.
778	enervating	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: enervating is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	causing weakness or loss of energy	The enervating humidity slowed the workers.
779	epistemic	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: epistemic is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	related to knowledge and how it is justified	The essay examines the epistemic limits of eyewitness testimony.
780	expiate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: expiate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to make amends for guilt or wrongdoing	The character hopes to expiate his betrayal through sacrifice.
781	expurgate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: expurgate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to remove material considered offensive or unsuitable	The editor refused to expurgate the historical letters.
782	fecund	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: fecund is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	highly productive or fertile	The collaboration proved fecund, producing several new theories.
783	gambit	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: gambit is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	an opening action intended to gain an advantage	The generous offer was a negotiating gambit.
784	homily	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: homily is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a moralizing speech or religious sermon	The novel ends with action rather than a homily.
785	immanent	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: immanent is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	existing or operating within something	The philosopher describes justice as immanent in human cooperation.
786	immolate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: immolate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to sacrifice or destroy, especially by fire	The mythic hero chose to immolate himself to save the city.
787	impasse	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: impasse is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a situation in which no progress is possible	Talks reached an impasse over border security.
788	importune	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: importune is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to ask persistently and urgently	Lobbyists continued to importune legislators for exemptions.
789	inchoate	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: inchoate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	only partly formed or organized	The protest began with an inchoate set of demands.
790	inculcate	verb Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: inculcate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to teach an idea through persistent repetition	The program seeks to inculcate habits of careful source checking.
791	ineluctable	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	impossible to avoid or escape	The tragedy moves toward an ineluctable conclusion.
792	inimitable	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	so distinctive that it cannot be copied	The singer's inimitable phrasing transformed the familiar song.
793	internecine	adjective Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: internecine is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	destructive conflict within a group	An internecine struggle weakened the governing coalition.
794	lacuna	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: lacuna is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a gap or missing part	A lacuna in the records obscures three years of the artist's life.
795	largesse	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: largesse is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	generous gifts of money or resources	The university expanded through a benefactor's largesse.
796	milieu	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: milieu is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a person's social or cultural environment	The novel recreates the artistic milieu of 1920s Paris.
797	modicum	noun Study Field: GRE science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: modicum is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a small amount	The proposal needs at least a modicum of public support.
798	exculpate	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Base-form focus: exculpate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to clear someone from blame or guilt	Security footage may exculpate the employee who was accused.
799	canvass	verb Study Field: GRE evidence and rhetorical analysis Word study: Base-form focus: canvass is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to seek opinions, support, or votes from people	Volunteers will canvass the district before the referendum.
800	exemplify	verb Study Field: GRE words in context and precision Word study: Suffix focus: -ify commonly forms a verb meaning to make or become.	to serve as a clear example of something	The final scene can exemplify the novel's theme of forgiveness.

About GRE Verbal Reasoning

The GRE Verbal Reasoning measure examines how well test takers understand and evaluate written material, recognize relationships among words and concepts, and analyze how parts of a sentence work together. Its three principal verbal question types are Reading Comprehension, Text Completion, and Sentence Equivalence.

Vocabulary matters on the GRE, but memorizing a definition is only the beginning. Strong preparation also connects each word to its connotation, common contrasts, near-synonyms, and role in an argument. Use the examples, readings, and quizzes here to practise choosing words from evidence in the sentence, then use official ETS material to learn the precise test format.

ETS test overview

Sources and curriculum references

These references guide selection and calibration. Definitions, sample sentences, readings, questions, and teaching notes are independently written and reviewed.