English Vocabulary · SAT Preparation Live Review Preview

SAT Vocabulary Words

The current digital SAT Reading and Writing section uses short passages from literature, history and social studies, the humanities, and science. Its Craft and Structure questions ask students to determine the meaning of high-utility words in context and to choose the most logical and precise word or phrase. Vocabulary also supports evidence, inference, rhetorical synthesis, transitions, and clear Standard English expression across the section.

This independently authored 800-word beta curriculum is arranged in twenty-three pages of up to thirty-five words. Pages containing words 1–500 include five cloze questions drawn only from that enhanced range; words 501–800 remain fully visible and editable while the expanded practice layer is developed. Each row includes a passage-field label and an editable word-study note about a transparent affix, compound structure, capitalization, or dictionary base form. The list is an unofficial KSSR learning resource and is not endorsed by or affiliated with College Board. SAT is a registered trademark of College Board.

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Page 1: words 1–35

Vocabulary page 1
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
1	abash	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
2	abate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
3	abdicate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
4	aberration	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
5	abhor	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
6	abject	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
7	abridge	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
8	absolve	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
9	abstain	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
10	abstruse	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
11	abysmal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
12	accede	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
13	acclaim	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
14	accolade	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
15	accommodate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
16	acquiesce	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
17	acrimony	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
18	acumen	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
19	adamant	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
20	adaptable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
21	adept	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
22	adjacent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
23	admonish	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
24	adroit	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
25	adulation	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
26	advocate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
27	aesthetic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
28	affable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
29	affinity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
30	affirm	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
31	agnostic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
32	alacrity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
33	allege	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
34	alleviate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
35	allude	verb Study Field: SAT 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.

An Unexpected Accolade

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

English reading

The museum’s new aesthetic initially divides reviewers, but one respected advocate explains how its spare design directs attention toward the art. Public acclaim follows. At the opening, an unexpected accolade seems to abash the normally confident architect, who responds with a brief thank-you rather than a victory speech.

Reading comprehension

1. What does the advocate explain?

The advocate explains how the design directs attention to the art.

2. What follows the favorable explanation?

Public acclaim follows.

3. Why does the accolade abash the architect?

The unexpected praise makes the architect self-conscious.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The novelist earned critical ___ for her vivid historical research.

Answer: acclaim

2. Several physicians ___ earlier screening for the disease.

Answer: advocate

3. The unexpected praise seemed to ___ the normally confident speaker.

Answer: abash

4. The scientist accepted the ___ on behalf of her entire laboratory.

Answer: accolade

5. The architect balanced ___ goals with practical safety needs.

Answer: aesthetic

Page 2: words 36–70

Vocabulary page 2
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
36	allusion	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
37	aloof	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
38	altruism	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
39	ambiguous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
40	ambivalent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
41	ameliorate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
42	amenable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
43	amiable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
44	amnesty	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
45	amorphous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
46	anachronism	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
47	anarchy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
48	anecdotal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
49	animosity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
50	anomaly	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
51	antecedent	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
52	antipathy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
53	apathy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
54	aphorism	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
55	appease	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
56	approbation	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
57	arbitrary	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
58	arcane	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
59	archaic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
60	ardent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
61	arduous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
62	articulate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
63	ascetic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
64	assiduous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
65	assimilate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
66	assuage	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
67	astute	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
68	audacious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
69	augment	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
70	austere	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.

Page 2 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 2.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The anonymous donation was an act of genuine ___.

Answer: altruism

2. The historian traced the law's ___ to a colonial ordinance.

Answer: antecedent

3. Through ___ research, the biographer verified every quotation.

Answer: assiduous

4. The ___ instructions produced three different results.

Answer: ambiguous

5. Her ___ toward dishonesty shaped every hiring decision.

Answer: antipathy

Page 3: words 71–105

Vocabulary page 3
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
71	autonomous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
72	avarice	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
73	aversion	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
74	banal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
75	belie	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
76	belligerent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
77	benign	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
78	bolster	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
79	bombastic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
80	brevity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
81	candid	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
82	capricious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
83	catalyst	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
84	caustic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
85	censure	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
86	circumspect	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
87	circumvent	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
88	coalesce	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
89	coerce	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
90	cogent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
91	collaborate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
92	complacent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
93	complement	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
94	comprehensive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
95	concede	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
96	conciliatory	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
97	concurrent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
98	condone	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
99	construe	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
100	contentious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
101	contextualize	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
102	contrive	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
103	conventional	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
104	converge	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
105	corroborate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.

Page 3 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 3.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The diplomat's ___ remarks threatened the fragile truce.

Answer: belligerent

2. A valid agreement cannot ___ either party into surrendering legal rights.

Answer: coerce

3. The playwright can ___ a meeting without making it seem improbable.

Answer: contrive

4. Tests confirmed that the unusual growth was ___.

Answer: benign

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	cryptic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
107	culminate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
108	cursory	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
109	dearth	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
110	debunk	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
111	deference	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
112	delineate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
113	denigrate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
114	denote	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
115	deride	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
116	derivative	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
117	despondent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
118	didactic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
119	diffident	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
120	diligent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
121	discerning	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
122	discredit	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
123	discrepancy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
124	discrete	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
125	disdain	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
126	disparate	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
127	dispassionate	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
128	disseminate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
129	diverge	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
130	dogmatic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
131	eclectic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
132	elicit	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
133	eloquent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
134	elusive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
135	emulate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
136	enervate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
137	engender	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
138	enigmatic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
139	ephemeral	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
140	equanimity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.

A Dispassionate Reply

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

English reading

Online comments deride a mayor’s temporary art display, but their outrage may prove ephemeral. In a dispassionate reply, the curator explains that the empty frame is meant to denote absence, not carelessness. She maintains equanimity throughout the debate, answering criticism without either contempt or panic.

Reading comprehension

1. Why may the outrage be ephemeral?

The outrage concerns a temporary display and may fade.

2. What does the empty frame denote?

It denotes absence.

3. How does the curator show equanimity?

She answers criticism calmly.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. Online fame can be ___ without meaningful work behind it.

Answer: ephemeral

2. On this map, a dashed line may ___ a seasonal trail.

Answer: denote

3. A judge must offer a ___ evaluation of the evidence.

Answer: dispassionate

4. The pilot responded to the emergency with remarkable ___.

Answer: equanimity

5. Critics began to ___ the invention before testing it.

Answer: deride

Page 5: words 141–175

Vocabulary page 5
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
141	equivocal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
142	erroneous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
143	erudite	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
144	esoteric	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
145	exacerbate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
146	exacting	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
147	exculpate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
148	exemplify	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
149	exhaustive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
150	extol	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
151	extraneous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
152	fallacious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
153	feasible	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
154	florid	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
155	forthright	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
156	frivolous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
157	germane	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
158	gratuitous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
159	gregarious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
160	hackneyed	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
161	hedge	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
162	iconoclast	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
163	idiosyncrasy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
164	impede	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
165	imperative	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
166	inadvertent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
167	incongruous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
168	incontrovertible	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
169	indifferent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
170	induce	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
171	ineffable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
172	inherent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
173	innocuous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
174	insular	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
175	integral	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.

Page 5 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 5.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The argument is ___ because it treats coincidence as proof of cause.

Answer: fallacious

2. It is ___ that the damaged bridge remain closed.

Answer: imperative

3. Engineers concluded that the repair was ___ within the budget.

Answer: feasible

4. An ___ omission changed the meaning of the sentence.

Answer: inadvertent

5. The spokesperson's ___ answer satisfied neither side.

Answer: equivocal

Page 6: words 176–210

Vocabulary page 6
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
176	intermittent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
177	intrinsic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
178	intuitive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
179	juxtapose	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
180	laconic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
181	latent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
182	lucid	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
183	malleable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
184	meticulous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
185	mitigate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
186	mundane	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
187	nebulous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
188	nuanced	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
189	obscure	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
190	ostensible	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
191	paradigm	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
192	paramount	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
193	partisan	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
194	perfunctory	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
195	peripheral	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
196	pragmatic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
197	precedent	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
198	precipitate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
199	preclude	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
200	prescient	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
201	profound	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
202	prolific	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
203	qualify	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
204	reconcile	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
205	refute	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
206	salient	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
207	tenable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
208	tentative	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
209	underscore	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
210	unequivocal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.

Page 6 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 6.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. Curiosity has ___ value beyond any reward it produces.

Answer: intrinsic

2. The meeting's ___ purpose was planning, though everyone expected a vote.

Answer: ostensible

3. The researcher must ___ the conclusion because the sample was small.

Answer: qualify

4. The map's ___ design helps visitors navigate without instructions.

Answer: intuitive

5. The discovery challenged the prevailing ___ in astronomy.

Answer: paradigm

Page 7: words 211–245

Vocabulary page 7
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
211	viable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
212	abnegation	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
213	abortive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
214	abstinence	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
215	acclimate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
216	accost	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
217	acerbic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
218	acrid	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
219	adherent	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
220	adulterate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
221	adverse	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
222	affectation	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
223	affluent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
224	agenda	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
225	agrarian	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
226	alloy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
227	ambience	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
228	amenity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
229	amoral	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
230	amorous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
231	anguish	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
232	apocalyptic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
233	apocryphal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
234	apotheosis	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
235	appreciable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
236	aptitude	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
237	arbiter	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
238	artful	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
239	artifice	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
240	ascendancy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
241	atheist	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
242	attrition	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
243	audacity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
244	authoritarian	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
245	avuncular	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.

An Awkward Welcome

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

English reading

A traveler arrives while one political faction is gaining ascendancy in the capital. Before she can acclimate, a stranger tries to accost her with questions about whether she is an atheist. She declines to discuss religion and asks the hotel clerk to show her a practical amenity: a quiet workspace.

Reading comprehension

1. What is gaining ascendancy?

A political faction is gaining ascendancy.

2. Who tries to accost the traveler?

A stranger tries to accost her.

3. What amenity does she request?

She requests a quiet workspace.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The party gained ___ after winning several regional elections.

Answer: ascendancy

2. The climbers paused to ___ before ascending farther.

Answer: acclimate

3. Reliable internet became an essential ___ for the remote town.

Answer: amenity

4. The essay compares the moral arguments of an ___ and a theologian.

Answer: atheist

5. A reporter tried to ___ the actor outside the courthouse.

Answer: accost

Page 8: words 246–280

Vocabulary page 8
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
246	balk	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
247	beget	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
248	benefactor	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
249	benevolent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
250	bequeath	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
251	bereft	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
252	blasphemy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
253	blatant	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
254	blight	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
255	blithe	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
256	boorish	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
257	bourgeois	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
258	bucolic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
259	burgeon	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
260	burlesque	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
261	burly	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
262	byzantine	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
263	calumny	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
264	canonical	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
265	canvass	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
266	castigate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
267	categorical	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
268	catharsis	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
269	catholic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
270	causal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
271	celibate	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
272	chagrin	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
273	charlatan	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
274	chasm	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
275	chastise	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
276	chicanery	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
277	chronic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
278	coercion	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
279	cognizant	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
280	commensurate	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.

Page 8 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 8.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. A confession obtained through ___ cannot be trusted.

Answer: coercion

2. The advertisement made a ___ attempt to disguise sponsorship as news.

Answer: blatant

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

Answer: castigate

4. The designers were ___ of the building's historical importance.

Answer: cognizant

5. Abandoned buildings became a ___ on the neighborhood.

Answer: blight

Page 9: words 281–315

Vocabulary page 9
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
281	compelling	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
282	compendium	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
283	complacency	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
284	compliant	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
285	concise	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
286	conflagration	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
287	conflate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
288	congenial	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
289	conjecture	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
290	consequential	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
291	consternation	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
292	consummate	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
293	contemptuous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
294	contrite	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
295	copious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
296	cosmopolitan	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
297	covet	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
298	credulous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
299	cronyism	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
300	cupidity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
301	debase	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
302	debilitate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
303	decadent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
304	decorum	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
305	decry	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
306	deferential	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
307	definitive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
308	deft	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
309	demagogue	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
310	demarcate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
311	demure	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
312	depravity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
313	deprecate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
314	derelict	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
315	desiccate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.

Page 9 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 9.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The power failure caused ___ in the operating room.

Answer: consternation

2. The chair asked everyone to maintain ___ during the hearing.

Answer: decorum

3. A ___ diplomat, she found agreement where others saw only conflict.

Answer: consummate

4. Health advocates ___ advertising that targets young children.

Answer: decry

5. His ___ response discouraged further questions.

Answer: contemptuous

Page 10: words 316–350

Vocabulary page 10
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
316	desultory	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
317	diatribe	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
318	dichotomy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
319	dictum	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
320	digress	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
321	dilatory	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
322	dilettante	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
323	diminution	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
324	disabuse	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
325	discomfit	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
326	discordant	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
327	disingenuous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
328	disinterested	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
329	divest	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
330	doctrinaire	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
331	dubious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
332	ebullient	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
333	eccentric	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
334	ecclesiastical	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
335	efface	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
336	effervescent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
337	egalitarian	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
338	egocentric	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
339	egregious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
340	elucidate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
341	embellish	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
342	eminent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
343	encroach	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
344	endemic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
345	enfranchise	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
346	entrenched	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
347	enumerate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
348	erratic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
349	euphemism	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
350	evanescent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.

A Desultory Speech

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

English reading

An eminent historian begins a lecture with careful evidence, but the talk soon becomes desultory. He jumps between unrelated anecdotes and starts to embellish minor details. When a questioner challenges him, he launches into a diatribe. The moderator tries to divest the exchange of personal insults and return it to the evidence.

Reading comprehension

1. Why does the lecture become desultory?

The historian jumps between unrelated anecdotes.

2. What does he embellish?

He embellishes minor details.

3. What does the moderator remove?

The moderator tries to remove personal insults.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

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

Answer: embellish

2. Their ___ search overlooked the most likely location.

Answer: desultory

3. The fund promised to ___ from companies that ignored the standards.

Answer: divest

4. An ___ biologist chaired the independent review.

Answer: eminent

5. The editorial became a ___ against anyone who questioned the policy.

Answer: diatribe

Page 11: words 351–385

Vocabulary page 11
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
351	evince	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
352	exhort	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
353	exigent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
354	exonerate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
355	expedient	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
356	expound	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
357	extant	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
358	extemporaneous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
359	facetious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
360	fatuous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
361	fervent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
362	fiscal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
363	flagrant	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
364	flout	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
365	foment	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
366	forestall	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
367	formidable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
368	fractious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
369	furtive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
370	gainsay	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
371	galvanize	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
372	gauche	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
373	grandiloquent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
374	grandiose	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
375	gratify	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
376	guile	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
377	hallowed	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
378	harangue	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
379	harbinger	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
380	hedonism	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
381	hegemony	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
382	heresy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
383	hermetic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
384	heterogeneous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
385	hierarchy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.

Page 11 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 11.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The first migrating birds are a ___ of spring.

Answer: harbinger

2. DNA evidence may ___ the convicted man.

Answer: exonerate

3. The mountain presented a ___ challenge to the rescue team.

Answer: formidable

4. The novel contrasts ___ with a life of public service.

Answer: hedonism

5. The shortcut was ___, yet it undermined public trust.

Answer: expedient

Page 12: words 386–420

Vocabulary page 12
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
386	homogeneous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
387	hubris	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
388	hypothetical	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
389	iconoclastic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
390	idealize	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
391	ideology	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
392	idyllic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
393	ignominious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
394	immutable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
395	impassive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
396	impeccable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
397	impecunious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
398	imperial	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
399	imperious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
400	imperturbable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
401	impervious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
402	impetuous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
403	impinge	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
404	implacable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
405	implement	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
406	implicate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
407	impoverish	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
408	impropriety	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
409	impugn	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
410	inane	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
411	inaugurate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
412	incandescent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
413	incendiary	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
414	incipient	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
415	incisive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
416	inconsequential	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
417	incorrigible	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
418	incremental	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
419	incumbent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
420	indefatigable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.

Page 12 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 12.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The novel's ___ trickster ignores every warning.

Answer: incorrigible

2. The painting presents an ___ vision of rural childhood.

Answer: idyllic

3. The city will ___ the recycling program next month.

Answer: implement

4. The reform produced ___ improvements rather than dramatic results.

Answer: incremental

5. The army's retreat was an ___ end to the campaign.

Answer: ignominious

Page 13: words 421–455

Vocabulary page 13
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
421	indelible	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
422	indigent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
423	indolent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
424	indomitable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
425	inequity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
426	inert	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
427	inexorable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
428	infamy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
429	infinitesimal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
430	inflammatory	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
431	ingenuous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
432	inimical	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
433	iniquity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
434	innate	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
435	insatiable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
436	insidious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
437	insipid	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
438	insolent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
439	instigate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
440	intangible	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
441	interlocutor	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
442	interminable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
443	intractable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
444	intransigent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
445	intrepid	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
446	intricate	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
447	invective	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
448	inveterate	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
449	irascible	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
450	ironic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
451	irreverent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
452	irrevocable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
453	jargon	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
454	jettison	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
455	jocular	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.

An Intractable Meeting

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

English reading

The budget meeting feels interminable because an intractable dispute blocks every vote. One member’s jocular remarks briefly ease the tension, but another speaker uses inflammatory accusations. An ingenuous new delegate asks a direct question that reveals both sides actually agree on the central goal.

Reading comprehension

1. Why does the meeting feel interminable?

An intractable dispute blocks progress.

2. What briefly eases tension?

Jocular remarks briefly ease tension.

3. What does the ingenuous question reveal?

It reveals agreement on the central goal.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The negotiations became an ___ series of delays.

Answer: interminable

2. His ___ tone eased tension before the serious discussion.

Answer: jocular

3. The moderator rejected ___ language from both sides.

Answer: inflammatory

4. Water scarcity remains an ___ problem in the region.

Answer: intractable

5. Her ___ question revealed a flaw the experts had overlooked.

Answer: ingenuous

Page 14: words 456–490

Vocabulary page 14
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
456	judicious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
457	lament	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
458	laud	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
459	lavish	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
460	lethargic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
461	levity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
462	liberal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
463	libertarian	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
464	licentious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
465	limpid	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
466	lionize	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
467	litigate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
468	livid	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
469	loquacious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
470	lucrative	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
471	lurid	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
472	magnanimous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
473	maladroit	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
474	malaise	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
475	malevolent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
476	malign	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
477	mandate	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
478	manifest	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
479	martial	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
480	martyr	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
481	maverick	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
482	maxim	noun Study Field: SAT 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.”
483	meander	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
484	mercenary	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
485	metaphysical	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
486	misanthropic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
487	mollify	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
488	morose	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
489	multifaceted	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
490	myopic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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 14 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 14.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The movement honored the imprisoned writer as a ___.

Answer: martyr

2. The residents were ___ when officials concealed the test results.

Answer: livid

3. The ___ senator opposed both parties on the issue.

Answer: maverick

4. A ___ use of quotations strengthened the essay.

Answer: judicious

5. The ___ witness offered many details but few relevant facts.

Answer: loquacious

Page 15: words 491–525

Vocabulary page 15
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
491	nascent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
492	nefarious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
493	negligible	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
494	neophyte	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
495	noisome	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
496	nominal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
497	nostalgia	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
498	novel	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
499	noxious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
500	obdurate	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
501	obfuscate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
502	oblique	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
503	obsequious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
504	obstinate	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
505	obviate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
506	occlude	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
507	odious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
508	officious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
509	onerous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
510	opulent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
511	orthodox	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
512	oscillate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
513	ostentatious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
514	ostracize	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
515	pacify	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
516	palliative	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
517	panacea	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
518	paradigmatic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
519	parochial	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
520	parody	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
521	parsimonious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
522	patent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
523	paucity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
524	pedantic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
525	penchant	noun Study Field: SAT 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.

Page 15 vocabulary review

Review five selected words from page 15.

Cloze vocabulary quiz

1. The second treatment produced a ___ improvement.

Answer: negligible

2. As a ___, he asked questions that veterans had stopped considering.

Answer: neophyte

3. A ___ odor rose from the polluted canal.

Answer: noisome

4. She remained the ___ leader while advisers made every decision.

Answer: nominal

5. The advertisement uses ___ to sell a modern product.

Answer: nostalgia

Page 16: words 526–560

Vocabulary page 16
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
526	penitent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
527	penurious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
528	perennial	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
529	perfidious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
530	peripatetic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
531	pernicious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
532	perpetuate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
533	pertinent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
534	pervasive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
535	petulant	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
536	philanthropy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
537	philistine	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
538	piety	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
539	placate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
540	plasticity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
541	platitude	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
542	plethora	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
543	poignant	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
544	polemical	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
545	pragmatism	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
546	precipitous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
547	predilection	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
548	presumptuous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
549	prevaricate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
550	prodigal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
551	prodigious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
552	profligate	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
553	proliferate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
554	propensity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
555	propitious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
556	proponent	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
557	propriety	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
558	prosaic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
559	proscribe	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
560	proselytize	verb Study Field: SAT 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.

The Peripatetic Teacher

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

English reading

A peripatetic teacher travels between remote villages with a box of books. A penurious official repeatedly refuses to fund fuel, while a perfidious supplier secretly raises prices after signing a contract. When records expose the scheme, the supplier appears penitent. The teacher’s perennial commitment to students never changes.

Reading comprehension

1. Why is the teacher peripatetic?

The teacher travels between villages.

2. What makes the supplier perfidious?

The supplier secretly violates the agreement.

3. What commitment is perennial?

The teacher's commitment to students is perennial.

Page 17: words 561–595

Vocabulary page 17
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
561	provincial	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
562	provisional	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
563	prudent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
564	pugnacious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
565	punctilious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
566	quandary	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
567	querulous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
568	quixotic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
569	rancor	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
570	rarefied	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
571	recalcitrant	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
572	recant	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
573	recluse	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
574	recondite	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
575	redress	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
576	redundant	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
577	relegate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
578	relinquish	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
579	remonstrate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
580	renounce	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
581	replete	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
582	reprehensible	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
583	reproach	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
584	repudiate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
585	rescind	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
586	reticent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
587	revere	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
588	rhetoric	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
589	rudimentary	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
590	sagacious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
591	sanction	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
592	sanguine	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
593	scathing	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
594	schism	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
595	secular	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.

Page 18: words 596–630

Vocabulary page 18
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
596	sedulous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
597	sequester	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
598	serendipity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
599	servile	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
600	singular	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
601	skepticism	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
602	solicitous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
603	soporific	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
604	specious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
605	spurious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
606	staid	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
607	stigma	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
608	stoic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
609	strident	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
610	subjugate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
611	sublime	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
612	subversive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
613	succinct	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
614	supercilious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
615	superficial	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
616	superfluous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
617	surfeit	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
618	surreptitious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
619	sycophant	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
620	synthesis	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
621	tacit	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
622	taciturn	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
623	tangential	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
624	tantamount	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
625	tautological	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
626	temerity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
627	tenacious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
628	tenet	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
629	tenuous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
630	terse	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.

Page 19: words 631–665

Vocabulary page 19
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
631	tirade	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
632	torpor	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
633	transcend	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
634	transgress	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
635	transient	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
636	trepidation	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
637	ubiquitous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
638	unconscionable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
639	unctuous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
640	unremitting	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
641	urbane	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
642	usurp	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
643	utilitarian	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
644	utopia	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
645	vacillate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
646	vapid	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
647	vehement	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
648	venal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
649	venerate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
650	veracity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
651	verbose	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
652	verisimilitude	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
653	vernacular	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
654	vestige	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
655	vex	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
656	vicarious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
657	vicissitude	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
658	vilify	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
659	vindicate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
660	vindictive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
661	virulent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
662	vitiate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
663	vitriolic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
664	vocation	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
665	vociferous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.

A Transient Outburst

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

English reading

After weeks of political torpor, a council member delivers a fierce tirade. Her anger is transient, but the issue behind it is not: officials may transgress ethical rules if gifts influence votes. The council must transcend personal rivalries and adopt a transparent policy.

Reading comprehension

1. What interrupts the political torpor?

A fierce tirade interrupts it.

2. What ethical danger is identified?

Officials may transgress rules when gifts influence votes.

3. What must the council transcend?

The council must transcend personal rivalries.

Page 20: words 666–700

Vocabulary page 20
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
666	volatile	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
667	volition	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
668	wanton	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
669	willful	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
670	wistful	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
671	zealous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
672	accretion	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
673	adjudicate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
674	adsorb	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
675	alluvial	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
676	amalgamate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
677	anomalous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
678	anthropogenic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
679	attenuate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
680	auspicious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
681	buffer	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
682	capitulate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
683	codify	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
684	commodify	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
685	concentric	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
686	confound	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
687	consolidate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
688	constitutive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
689	contingent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
690	counterintuitive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
691	decompose	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
692	demographic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
693	disaggregate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
694	displacement	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
695	efficacy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
696	elasticity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
697	equilibrium	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
698	exogenous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
699	exponential	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
700	externality	noun Study Field: SAT 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.

Page 21: words 701–735

Vocabulary page 21
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
701	formative	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
702	fungible	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
703	genealogy	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
704	gradient	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
705	heuristic	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
706	homeostasis	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
707	hydraulic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
708	incentive	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
709	incidence	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
710	inelastic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
711	infrastructure	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
712	interdependent	adjective Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Prefix focus: inter- means between or among.	depending on one another	Pollinators and flowering plants are interdependent.
713	isotope	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
714	kinetic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
715	longitudinal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
716	macroeconomic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
717	microcosm	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
718	multilateral	adjective Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Prefix focus: multi- means many.	involving several countries or parties	The treaty requires multilateral cooperation.
719	normative	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
720	oscillation	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
721	outlier	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
722	polarize	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
723	proportional	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
724	redistribute	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
725	regression	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
726	salinity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
727	sequestration	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
728	stratify	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
729	subsistence	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
730	symbiotic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
731	systemic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
732	threshold	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
733	trajectory	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
734	viscosity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
735	zeitgeist	noun Study Field: SAT 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.

Page 22: words 736–770

Vocabulary page 22
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
736	abrogate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
737	acquisitive	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
738	adventitious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
739	apprise	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
740	arrogate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
741	atonement	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
742	attenuation	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
743	bifurcate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
744	broach	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
745	buttress	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
746	cadge	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
747	capitulation	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
748	cogitate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
749	complicity	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
750	concord	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
751	conduit	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
752	conundrum	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
753	corporeal	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
754	cosset	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
755	daunt	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
756	defray	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
757	demur	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
758	denouement	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
759	depredation	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
760	descry	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
761	detente	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
762	diaphanous	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
763	dissemble	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
764	ebullience	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
765	efficacious	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
766	encomium	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
767	enervating	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
768	epistemic	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
769	expiate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
770	expurgate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.

An Adventitious Claim

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

English reading

An acquisitive executive tries to arrogate authority that belongs to the full board. She asks lawyers to abrogate an oversight rule and presents an adventitious rise in sales as proof that her plan works, although the rise came from an unrelated holiday. A careful analyst must apprise the board of that missing context.

Reading comprehension

1. What authority does the executive try to arrogate?

She tries to claim authority belonging to the board.

2. Why is the sales rise adventitious?

It came from an unrelated holiday.

3. What must the analyst do?

The analyst must apprise the board of the missing context.

Page 23: words 771–800

Vocabulary page 23
#	Word	Details	Meaning	Sample sentence
771	fecund	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
772	gambit	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
773	homily	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
774	immanent	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
775	immolate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
776	impasse	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
777	importune	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
778	inchoate	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
779	inculcate	verb Study Field: SAT 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.
780	ineluctable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
781	inimitable	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
782	internecine	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
783	lacuna	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
784	largesse	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
785	mercurial	adjective Study Field: SAT 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.
786	milieu	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
787	modicum	noun Study Field: SAT 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.
788	moribund	adjective Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: moribund is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	near death or no longer developing	New investment revived the moribund industry.
789	obloquy	noun Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: obloquy is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	strong public criticism and disgrace	The official faced obloquy after the deception was exposed.
790	opprobrium	noun Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: opprobrium is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	harsh public shame or condemnation	The company earned international opprobrium for the spill.
791	palpable	adjective Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -able means capable of, suitable for, or worthy of an action.	so obvious or intense that it seems touchable	A palpable tension filled the courtroom.
792	panegyric	noun Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: panegyric is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a formal speech or text expressing elaborate praise	The biography sometimes reads like a panegyric rather than a critical study.
793	pellucid	adjective Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: pellucid is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	extremely clear in meaning or appearance	The essay's pellucid explanation won praise from nonspecialists.
794	penury	noun Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: penury is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	extreme poverty	The memoir describes childhood penury without sentimentality.
795	peremptory	adjective Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: peremptory is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	insisting on immediate obedience and allowing no reply	The officer issued a peremptory command to leave.
796	perspicacious	adjective Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Suffix focus: -ous commonly forms an adjective meaning full of or characterized by.	quick to understand subtle or difficult matters	A perspicacious reviewer noticed the hidden contradiction.
797	precept	noun Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: precept is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	a rule or principle guiding behavior	The physician followed the ethical precept of informed consent.
798	presage	verb Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: presage is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to indicate that something will happen	The sudden withdrawals may presage a financial crisis.
799	prognosticate	verb Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: prognosticate is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	to predict a future event or condition	Economists hesitate to prognosticate beyond the next quarter.
800	prolix	adjective Study Field: SAT science and social-science vocabulary Word study: Base-form focus: prolix is the dictionary headword; compare its inflected or derived forms in context.	using too many words and continuing too long	The prolix introduction delays the essay's central claim.

About the digital SAT

The digital SAT Reading and Writing section measures comprehension, analysis, synthesis, rhetoric, and command of language. Its Words in Context questions ask students to determine a word’s meaning or choose the most logical and precise word for a particular passage. That means SAT vocabulary study should focus on useful academic words, multiple meanings, tone, and exact usage—not on memorizing rare words in isolation.

Use this list as one part of SAT preparation. Read each example closely, compare near-synonyms, and notice how surrounding sentences control meaning. The lesson readings and questions are designed to practise the same habits of contextual reasoning, while official College Board questions remain the best guide to the test’s exact format.

College Board 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.