SAT vocabulary words

Please annotate the chapter with questions and key points.

To add brief notes or comments to a text to explain or clarify it.

Memory hook: sticky notes in the margins

She asserted that the data proved her point.

To state confidently as true; to claim firmly.

Memory hook: planting a flag

The play's characterization reveals the hero's hidden fears.

The description or portrayal of someone or something, especially how an author shows a character's traits.

Memory hook: sketching a personality

His silence carried the implication that he agreed.

Word parts: im- (in) + plic (fold, as in complicated) → something folded in: a meaning hinted, not stated

A suggested meaning that isn't stated outright.

Memory hook: reading between the lines

The threat was implicit, not spoken aloud.

Word parts: im- (in) + plic (fold, as in complicated) → folded in: understood without being stated

Understood without being directly stated; implied.

Memory hook: the part nobody said out loud

She interjected a quick question before the speaker moved on.

Word parts: inter- (between, as in international) + ject (throw, as in eject) → throw in between: cut into a talk

To say something abruptly in the middle of someone else's speech or a conversation.

Memory hook: butting in mid-sentence

The mayor proclaims a citywide holiday.

Word parts: pro- (forth, as in project) + claim (cry out, as in exclaim) → cry out for all to hear: announce

To announce something publicly and clearly.

Memory hook: shouts it from the rooftop

He raised a hand, signaling the team to stop.

To communicate something through a gesture, motion, or sign.

Memory hook: turn signal blinking

After hours of deliberation, the jury reached a verdict.

Word parts: de- (fully) + liber (weigh, from libra, scales, as in Libra) → weighing fully: careful thought before deciding

A period of careful thought or discussion before making a decision.

Memory hook: weighing pros and cons

Rising attendance is an indicator of school spirit.

A sign or measure that shows the state or direction of something.

Memory hook: dashboard warning light

There was no observable change after the experiment.

Able to be seen or noticed.

Memory hook: see it with your own eyes

We perceive slight changes in a friend's tone right away.

Word parts: per- (thoroughly) + ceive (take, as in receive) → take in fully: notice or understand

To notice or understand something through the senses or the mind.

Memory hook: catching a faint whisper

The detective scrutinized the photo for clues.

To examine something very carefully and in detail.

Memory hook: magnifying glass over fine print

Designers conceptualize the app before writing any code.

Word parts: conceptual (about ideas) + -ize (make) → make into an idea: form a clear idea in your mind

To form a clear idea of something in your mind.

Memory hook: whiteboard in your head

The scientists hypothesized that the decline in bees was due to pesticides.

To propose a possible explanation based on limited evidence.

Memory hook: educated guess on a whiteboard

The team discussed a notional budget before the numbers were finalized.

Word parts: notion (idea) + -al (describing word) → of an idea: existing only in thought

Existing only as an idea; theoretical or hypothetical.

Memory hook: on paper only

The model's predictive power improved with more data.

Word parts: pre- (before) + dict (say, as in dictionary) + -ive (describing word) → saying beforehand what will happen

Useful for forecasting what will happen based on current information.

Memory hook: weather app guessing tomorrow

Don’t presume the bus is late; it might be canceled.

Word parts: pre- (before) + sume (take, as in assume) → take as true beforehand: assume without proof

To assume something is true without certain proof.

Memory hook: assuming before knowing

Without more data, we can only speculate about the cause.

Word parts: spec (look, as in inspect) → look at ideas in your mind: guess without all the facts

To form ideas or guesses when you don't have all the facts.

Memory hook: crystal ball guess

From the muddy paw prints, she surmised the dog had escaped.

To guess something based on limited clues.

Memory hook: detective hunch

Her plan worked in a theoretical model but failed in practice.

Based on ideas and principles rather than practical experience.

Memory hook: whiteboard equations, no lab

Three independent studies now buttress the professor's original theory.

To support or strengthen, especially an argument or structure.

Memory hook: support beams for arguments

The lab results corroborate her story.

Word parts: cor- (with, a form of com-) + robor (strength, as in robust) → add strength: back up a claim with more evidence

To confirm or support a claim by providing additional evidence.

Memory hook: screenshots as proof

The opening paragraph establishes the author's main point.

Word parts: stabl (firm, as in stable) → make firm: set up or prove solidly

To show or prove something clearly, often by giving evidence.

Memory hook: evidence locks it in

This chart exemplifies how small changes add up.

Word parts: exempl (example) + -ify (make) → make an example: serve as a clear example

To serve as a clear example of something.

Memory hook: textbook example

The coach illustrated the play with a quick diagram.

Word parts: il- (on, a form of in-) + lustr (light, as in luster) → shed light on: make clear with an example

To make an idea clear by giving an example of it.

Memory hook: picture makes it clear

Can you justify your answer with evidence?

Word parts: just (right, fair) + -ify (make) → show to be right: prove it's reasonable

To show or prove that something is reasonable or right.

Memory hook: showing your receipts

She is a vocal proponent of clean energy.

Word parts: pro- (forward, as in progress) + pon (put, as in postpone) → one who puts an idea forward: a supporter

A person who supports or argues in favor of an idea or plan.

Memory hook: cheering for the plan

New survey results are reinforcing the team's theory about customer habits.

Word parts: re- (again) + in- (in) + force (strength) → put in more force: strengthen with added support

To strengthen a belief or argument by adding more support.

Memory hook: shoring up a shaky argument

She kept substantiating her claims with clear evidence.

Word parts: substance (solid, real content) + -ate (make, as in activate) → give substance to: back a claim with evidence

To provide solid evidence to support or prove a claim.

Memory hook: stacking up the proof

The new findings underscore the need for stronger safety rules.

Word parts: under (beneath) + score (mark a line) → draw a line under: emphasize, highlight

To emphasize or highlight something to show its importance.

Memory hook: double-underline the point

The lab results validated the study's claim.

Word parts: valid (true, well-founded) + -ate (make, as in activate) → make valid: confirm as true

To confirm something as true or accurate with evidence or authority.

Memory hook: blue check mark

The editor spent all morning verifying each fact in the article.

Word parts: ver (true, as in verdict) + -ify (make) → make sure it's true: confirm

To confirm that something is true or correct.

Memory hook: double-checking the math

She acknowledged the mistake and moved on.

To admit or recognize something as true or valid.

Memory hook: a quick nod of admission

After the debate, he had to concede the point.

Word parts: con- (fully) + cede (go, give way, as in recede) → give way: admit a point is true, often reluctantly

To admit something is true or valid, often reluctantly.

Memory hook: Admit with a sigh

The team reached a consensus before moving on.

Word parts: con- (together) + sens (feel, as in sense) → feeling together: general agreement

A general agreement among a group.

Memory hook: everyone on the same page

Her claim was consistent with the lab results.

Word parts: con- (together) + sist (stand, as in resist) → standing together: in agreement, not contradicting

In agreement with something; matching and not contradicting it.

Memory hook: puzzle pieces that fit

The coach made a controversial call in the final minute.

Word parts: contro- (against, like counter-) + vers (turn, as in reverse) → turned against: causing strong disagreement

Causing strong disagreement or public debate.

Memory hook: comment section on fire

The researchers dispute the claim that the drug is harmless.

To argue against or question the truth of something.

Memory hook: throwing a flag on the claim

The reviewer discounted the rumor as baseless.

Word parts: dis- (away) + count → count it away: leave out, treat as unimportant

To dismiss something as unimportant or unlikely to be true.

Memory hook: waved off as not credible

The editor chose to dismiss the rumor as baseless.

Word parts: dis- (away) + miss (send, as in mission) → send away: reject as unimportant

To reject or stop considering something as unimportant.

Memory hook: wave it away

The hikers disregarded the posted warning signs and got lost in the fog.

Word parts: dis- (not) + regard (pay attention to) → not pay attention to: ignore

To ignore or pay no attention to something.

Memory hook: left on read

New evidence could invalidate the witness's story.

Word parts: in- (not) + valid (sound, acceptable) + -ate (make, as in activate) → make not valid: cancel or disprove

To make something no longer valid or acceptable, often by proving it wrong.

Memory hook: stamp VOID on it

Don't overlook the fine print before you sign a contract.

To fail to notice or consider.

Memory hook: skipping the fine print

The writer rebuts the critics' claims.

Word parts: re- (back) + but (push, as in headbutt) → push back: argue against a claim and show it's wrong

To argue against a claim and show why it is wrong.

Memory hook: the comeback that ends the debate

Facing new facts, he recants his earlier claim.

Word parts: re- (back) + cant (sing, as in chant) → sing it back: take back what you said

To formally take back a previous statement or belief, usually in public.

Memory hook: press conference apology

The new lab data refute the rumor that the results were faked.

To prove a statement or claim to be wrong.

Memory hook: Receipts that shut it down

His renunciation of the throne stunned the nation.

Word parts: re- (back, against) + nunci (declare, as in announce) → declare against: formally give up a claim or belief

A formal rejection or giving up of a belief, claim, or habit.

Memory hook: handing back the crown

The arbitrary curfew changed from night to night.

Based on personal whim or random choice rather than reason or rules.

Memory hook: because I said so

She made a compelling case for funding the program.

Word parts: com- (together) + pel (drive, as in propel) → driving you to agree: powerfully convincing

Powerfully convincing, especially as an argument or claim.

Memory hook: magnet for your attention

The fingerprints were indisputable proof of who opened the safe.

Word parts: in- (not) + dispute (argue against) + -able (able to be) → can't be argued against: undeniably true

Impossible to deny or doubt; unquestionably true.

Memory hook: video evidence

She considered the answer key infallible, so she didn't question it.

Word parts: in- (not) + fall (err, as in fail) + -ible (able to) → not able to fail or err: never wrong

Unable to make mistakes; always reliable.

Memory hook: a GPS that never gets lost

Her question was legitimate, so the teacher paused to explain.

Word parts: leg (law, as in legal) → lawful, by the rules: valid and well-founded

Valid and reasonable; based on good reasons.

Memory hook: valid ID at the door

The study relied on questionable data from an unverified source.

Doubtful or suspect; not clearly true, reliable, or acceptable.

Memory hook: smells fishy

The experiment's results were replicable across labs.

Word parts: replic (copy, as in replica) + -able (able to be) → able to be copied: repeated with the same results

Able to be repeated or copied with the same results.

Memory hook: recipe you can repeat

With such tenuous evidence, the case quickly fell apart.

Weak and thin; not solid or certain.

Memory hook: a thread about to snap

After three straight championships, her talent is undeniable.

Word parts: un- (not) + deny (say it isn't true) + -able (able to be) → can't be denied: clearly true

Impossible to dispute; clearly true.

Memory hook: So obvious you can't argue

The lecture on black holes was accessible even to students with no physics background.

Word parts: access (a way in) + -ible (able to be) → able to be reached: easy to get into and understand

Easy to understand, even without special background in the subject.

Memory hook: no PhD required to get it

Their relief was manifest the moment the results were posted.

Clear and obvious; easy to see or understand.

Memory hook: neon sign obvious

The process is transparent, so anyone can see how decisions are made.

Word parts: trans- (through, as in transport) + par (appear, as in appear) → seen through: open, not hidden

Open and easy to understand; not hidden.

Memory hook: see-through glass

Her reply was unequivocal: absolutely not.

Word parts: un- (not) + equi (equal) + voc (voice, as in vocal) → not speaking with two equal voices: no doubt

Leaving no doubt; clear and definite.

Memory hook: no wiggle room

Her laugh was unmistakable across the room.

Word parts: un- (not) + mistake (take wrongly) + -able (able to be) → can't be mistaken for anything else: very clear

So clear it cannot be confused with anything else.

Memory hook: a voice you'd pick out in a crowd

The ambiguity of the instructions led to mistakes.

A lack of clarity because something can be understood in more than one way.

Memory hook: two arrows on one sign

The manual is packed with arcane jargon.

Known or understood by only a few; obscure or mysterious.

Memory hook: wizard-only instructions

A clear answer proved elusive after hours of debate.

Word parts: elude (slip away from) + -ive (describing word) → tending to slip away: hard to pin down

Hard to define, pin down, or fully understand.

Memory hook: smoke that won't hold a shape

The legal jargon in the contract was so impenetrable that even lawyers struggled with it.

Word parts: im- (not) + penetr (get into, as in penetrate) + -able (able to be) → can't be gotten into: hard to understand

Very difficult to understand.

Memory hook: brick wall text

The notes were indecipherable after the coffee spill.

Word parts: in- (not) + de- (undo) + cipher (code) + -able (able to be) → not able to be decoded: impossible to read

Impossible to read or understand.

Memory hook: doctor's handwriting

The glitch was inexplicable even to the engineers.

Word parts: in- (not) + explic (unfold, explain, as in explicit) + -able (able to be) → not able to be explained

Impossible to explain or understand.

Memory hook: shrug emoji moment

The plot twist was mystifying to the whole class.

Word parts: myst (mystery) + -ify (make) → making something a mystery: puzzling

Confusing or hard to understand; puzzling.

Memory hook: maze with no map

Her nuanced argument considered both history and emotion.

Full of subtle details or small distinctions.

Memory hook: shades within shades

She cited an obscure study that few had read.

Not well-known or difficult to understand.

Memory hook: a band nobody's heard of

The app's privacy policy is opaque to most users.

Hard to understand or see through; not clear.

Memory hook: foggy window

The directions to the trailhead were frustratingly vague.

Not clearly expressed or defined; unclear.

Memory hook: blurry outline

She tried to conceal her excitement.

To keep something from being known or noticed by others.

Memory hook: keeping a straight face so no one notices

The speaker conflated opinion with fact.

Word parts: con- (together) + flate (blow, as in inflate) → blown together: two things merged into one

To combine two different things into one, often causing confusion.

Memory hook: two headlines mashed together

The ad tried to disguise a sales pitch as friendly advice.

To hide the true nature of something.

Memory hook: wolf in sheep's clothing

Reporters tend to exaggerate the danger of common household chemicals.

To overstate or describe something as more extreme or important than it really is.

Memory hook: stretching the truth

He fabricates an alibi to avoid blame.

Word parts: fabric (something built or woven) + -ate (make) → build or weave: make up something false

To invent or make up something false, often to deceive.

Memory hook: building a lie from scratch

Please don’t misconstrue my silence as agreement.

Word parts: mis- (wrongly) + construe (interpret) → interpret wrongly

To interpret or understand something the wrong way.

Memory hook: Reading a map upside down

Please don't misrepresent what I said.

Word parts: mis- (wrongly) + represent (show, describe) → describe wrongly: give a false account

To give a false or misleading account of something; to distort the truth.

Memory hook: Fake before-and-after photos

He apologized for spreading spurious rumors.

False or fake; not genuine or trustworthy.

Memory hook: fake that sounds real

The film's careful details gave the story convincing verisimilitude.

Word parts: veri (true, as in verify) + simil (like, as in similar) + -itude (state) → likeness to truth: seeming real

The appearance of being true or real.

Memory hook: movie CGI that looks real

After months of rain, the garden was a veritable jungle.

Word parts: verit (truth, as in verify) + -able (describing word) → true: really and truly what it seems

Real and genuine; used to emphasize that something is truly what it seems.

Memory hook: the real deal, for real

News coverage helped amplify public concern about the drought.

Word parts: ampl (large, as in ample) + -ify (make) → make larger: increase in strength or importance

To make something greater in degree, intensity, or importance.

Memory hook: turn up the volume

A single typo caused catastrophic errors in the code.

Causing very great damage or failure; disastrous.

Memory hook: disaster-level damage

After an exhaustive search, the researchers found no errors.

Word parts: exhaust (use up completely) + -ive (describing word) → using up every part: covering every detail

Covering every detail; thorough and complete.

Memory hook: leave no stone unturned

The report draws on extensive research from multiple countries.

Word parts: extend (stretch out) + -ive (describing word) → stretching far: large and wide-ranging

Large in amount or coverage; wide-ranging.

Memory hook: miles of shelves

Her tutoring side gig turned out to be lucrative.

Bringing in a lot of money; profitable.

Memory hook: money magnet

Her speech had a profound effect on the audience.

Word parts: pro- (forth) + found (bottom, as in foundation) → deep, reaching far down: very great in degree or effect

Very great in degree or effect.

Memory hook: hits you to the core

Spring brought a profusion of flowers to the park.

Word parts: pro- (forth, as in project) + fus (pour, as in transfusion) + -ion (act) → a pouring forth: a plentiful amount

A large, plentiful amount of something.

Memory hook: overflowing bouquet

The sponge was saturated after the spill.

So full or soaked that no more can be added or absorbed.

Memory hook: Sponge dripping water

The grant provided a substantial boost to the research budget.

Word parts: substance (real matter, weight) + -al (describing word) → having substance: sizeable, important

Large in amount or importance; considerable.

Memory hook: a hefty slice of cake

After the marathon, his energy was depleted.

Word parts: de- (undo) + plete (fill, as in complete) → un-filled: used up or greatly reduced

Used up or greatly reduced in amount or energy.

Memory hook: battery on 1%

By midnight, the noise began to diminish.

Word parts: di- (fully, a form of de-) + min (small, as in minimum) → make small: reduce or lessen

To become or make smaller or less; to reduce.

Memory hook: deflating balloon

She tried to moderate her tone during the debate.

To make something less intense or extreme; to tone it down.

Memory hook: turning the volume down

The cost was negligible compared to the benefits.

Word parts: neglig (ignore, as in neglect) + -ible (able to be) → able to be ignored: too small to matter

So small or unimportant that it can be ignored.

Memory hook: barely a blip

There was a paucity of evidence to support the rumor.

A severe lack or scarcity of something.

Memory hook: empty pantry shelves

The sequel eclipses the original at the box office.

To surpass or outshine something so much that it seems less important.

Memory hook: a moon blocking the sun

New donations this week should easily exceed last year's total.

Word parts: ex- (out) + ceed (go, as in proceed) → go out beyond: be greater than a limit

To be greater than or go beyond a limit or expectation.

Memory hook: over the speed limit

Online demand may outstrip supply this summer.

To surpass or be greater or faster than something or someone.

Memory hook: running ahead of the pack

Her award was overshadowed by the breaking news.

To make something or someone seem less important by comparison.

Memory hook: a big tree blocking the sunlight

Her cooking could rival any restaurant's.

To be as good as or compete with something or someone.

Memory hook: Coke vs Pepsi

Her performance surpassed all expectations.

Word parts: sur- (beyond, as in surplus) + pass (go by) → go beyond: do better than

To do better than or go beyond in quality, amount, or achievement.

Memory hook: blowing past the record

Her new album is transcending genre labels.

Word parts: trans- (across, beyond, as in transport) + scend (climb, as in ascend) → climb beyond: go past the usual limits

To go beyond the usual limits of something; to surpass.

Memory hook: outgrowing the box

Cut any extraneous details from your essay.

Word parts: extra (outside, beyond) + -neous (describing word) → from outside: not belonging, unrelated

Not relevant or necessary; extra and unrelated.

Memory hook: extra tabs you don't need

Algebra is foundational for advanced math classes.

Basic and essential; forming the base on which something is built.

Memory hook: laying the first brick

The tiny typo was inconsequential to the message.

Word parts: in- (not) + consequential (important) → not important

Not important; having little or no effect on the outcome.

Memory hook: a grain of sand on a beach

Trust is integral to a healthy team.

Word parts: integr (whole, as in integer) + -al (describing word) → of the whole: needed to make it complete

Essential and necessary for something to be whole or complete.

Memory hook: the keystone in an arch

Her comment about lunch was irrelevant to the debate.

Word parts: ir- (not) + relevant (related to the point) → not related to the point

Not related to the subject; not important to the point.

Memory hook: off-topic detour

They set aside peripheral issues to tackle the main problem.

Word parts: periphery (outer edge, from peri-: around) + -al (describing word) → on the outer edge: not central

On the outer edge; not central or most important.

Memory hook: off to the side

Cut the redundant sentences that repeat the same idea.

Unnecessarily repetitive; not needed because it adds no new information.

Memory hook: copy-paste loop

The teacher assigned supplemental readings to deepen our understanding.

Additional; serving to complete or enhance something already present.

Memory hook: extra fries on the side

The heart is analogous to a pump that moves blood through pipes.

Similar in a way that makes a meaningful comparison.

Memory hook: a heart works like a pump

Despite their differences, the teams found surprising commonalities.

Word parts: common (shared) + -al (describing word) + -ity (quality) → a shared quality: a feature things have in common

A feature or similarity shared by two or more things.

Memory hook: overlapping parts of a Venn diagram

The two models are comparable in price and performance.

Similar enough to be fairly compared in quality, size, or value.

Memory hook: apples to apples

After stirring for a while, the paint turned a homogeneous shade of blue.

Word parts: homo- (same) + gen (kind, as in genre) + -ous (describing word) → of the same kind throughout

Made up of parts that are the same or very similar throughout.

Memory hook: rows of identical houses

These two chargers are interchangeable.

Word parts: inter- (between, as in international) + change (swap) + -able (able to be) → able to be swapped with each other

Able to be swapped with another without changing the result.

Memory hook: swap without a difference

Scientists built a robot that can mimic the way octopuses move.

To imitate someone or something, especially how they act or sound.

Memory hook: copycat mode

Engineers simulate earthquakes to test buildings.

Word parts: simul (like, as in similar) → make like the real thing: imitate to study or practice

To imitate a real process or situation in order to study, practice, or predict outcomes.

Memory hook: flight simulator cockpit

The teacher set uniform rules for every class.

Word parts: uni- (one, as in unicycle) + form (shape) → one form: always the same

Always the same; consistent.

Memory hook: matching jerseys for everyone

In the study, each species was clearly demarcated from its closest relatives by its beak shape.

Word parts: de- (off) + marc (mark a boundary) → marked off: clearly set apart

Clearly separated or set apart from something else.

Memory hook: a bold line between two things

The driver deviates from the route to avoid traffic.

Word parts: de- (off) + via (way, road, as in via) → go off the road: stray from a path, plan or standard

To stray from an expected path, plan, or standard.

Memory hook: takes the side road

The team brought together disparate talents to solve the problem.

Completely different in kind; not comparable.

Memory hook: apples vs. skyscrapers

The two species have distinct markings on their wings.

Clearly different from others; easy to tell apart.

Memory hook: two flavors you can tell apart

After chapter three, their opinions diverge.

Word parts: di- (apart, a form of dis-) + verge (turn, as in converge) → turn apart: go different ways

To split and go in different directions; to become different.

Memory hook: fork in the road

Our club is diverse, with members from many backgrounds.

Word parts: di- (apart, a form of dis-) + vers (turn, as in reverse) → turned different ways: varied

Having many different kinds or showing variety.

Memory hook: mix of colors and voices

Through the rain-streaked window, the streetlights looked indistinct.

Word parts: in- (not) + distinct (clear, sharply marked) → not clear: blurry, vague

Not clear or sharply defined; blurry or vague.

Memory hook: fogged-up glasses

Weather in the mountains can be wildly unpredictable in early spring.

Word parts: un- (not) + predict (say ahead) + -able (able to be) → can't be predicted: may change suddenly

Likely to change suddenly in ways you can't foresee.

Memory hook: rollercoaster weather

The bus schedule on weekends is more variable than on weekdays.

Word parts: vary (change) + -able (able to be) → able to change: not consistent or fixed

Likely to change; not consistent or fixed.

Memory hook: mood swing forecast

The sudden warm day in January was an anomaly.

Word parts: an- (not) + omal (even, from homo-: same) → not even or regular: breaks the normal pattern

Something unusual that doesn't fit the normal pattern.

Memory hook: glitch in the pattern

Snow in April was atypical for the coastal town.

Word parts: a- (not) + typical (usual) → not typical: unusual

Not typical; unusual or out of the ordinary.

Memory hook: the one sock that doesn't match

Curiosity is characteristic of good scientists.

Word parts: character (defining qualities) + -istic (describing word) → showing its character: typical of it

Typical of a particular person, thing, or group.

Memory hook: fingerprint of a thing

Video calls are now commonplace at work.

Ordinary or unremarkable; happening often and not special.

Memory hook: so normal it’s boring

The movie felt derivative, borrowing every plot twist from older hits.

Word parts: derive (take from a source) + -ive (describing word) → taken from others' work: not original

Not original; copied or based on someone else’s work.

Memory hook: copycat vibes

The exhibit, epitomizing the era's style, drew huge crowds.

To represent the perfect or typical example of something.

Memory hook: poster child of the idea

His habitual lateness annoyed the team.

Done regularly; typical because of habit.

Memory hook: same seat every day

Her novel approach solved the problem quickly.

Word parts: nov (new, as in innovation) → new: original, unlike anything seen before

New and original; unlike anything seen before.

Memory hook: not a book—brand-new idea

We were confined to our seats during turbulence.

Word parts: con- (with) + fin (end, border, as in finish) → held within borders: kept within limits

Kept within limits or a small space; restricted.

Memory hook: stuck in a tiny elevator

The village's dispersed farms sat miles apart from one another.

Word parts: dis- (apart) + perse (scatter, as in sparse) → scattered apart in all directions

Scattered or spread out in different directions.

Memory hook: dandelion seeds on the wind

Thankfully, the fire was localized to one room.

Restricted to a particular area; not widespread.

Memory hook: kept to one corner

Smartphones are ubiquitous on campus.

Found everywhere; very common.

Memory hook: Wi-Fi everywhere

They wanted a universal rule that applied to all teams.

True or applicable to everyone or everything, without exception.

Memory hook: one size fits all

Team spirit is intangible, but it changes everything.

Word parts: in- (not) + tangible (able to be touched) → can't be touched: an idea or quality, not a thing

Not able to be touched or easily measured; existing as an idea or quality.

Memory hook: a vibe you can’t touch

The bracelet had an intricate pattern of tiny links.

Very complex, with many small parts or details.

Memory hook: watch's tiny gears

The issue is multifaceted, involving science, ethics, and economics.

Word parts: multi- (many, as in multicolored) + facet (side, little face) → having many sides: many parts or angles

Having many different parts, features, or perspectives.

Memory hook: diamond with many faces

He had only rudimentary coding skills.

Basic and undeveloped; covering only the simple or first steps.

Memory hook: training wheels on

The new app uses a sophisticated algorithm to predict traffic.

Highly complex or advanced in design or method.

Memory hook: fancy and high-tech

There's a subtle hint of cinnamon in the tea.

Delicate and hard to notice; not obvious or direct.

Memory hook: whisper you almost miss

Her vivid description made the scene feel real.

Word parts: viv (life, as in survive) → full of life: bright, clear and detailed

Clear, bright, and full of detail; easy to imagine.

Memory hook: HD picture in your head

Old animosities kept the rivals from working together.

A strong feeling of hostility or dislike between people or groups.

Memory hook: long-simmering grudges

His antagonistic tone turned a debate into an argument.

Word parts: ant- (against, a form of anti-) + agon (struggle, as in agony) → struggling against: hostile

Hostile or actively opposed to someone or something.

Memory hook: rival team trash talk

Don’t denigrate her work just because it’s different.

To criticize unfairly or belittle someone or something.

Memory hook: Smearing mud on someone’s name

I despise being lied to, especially by close friends.

Word parts: de- (down) + spise (look, like spec in inspect) → look down on: feel contempt for

To feel strong dislike or contempt for someone or something.

Memory hook: ugh face at soggy fries

Critics shouldn't disparage a new teammate's performance after just one game.

Word parts: dis- (away) + par (equal rank, as in on par) → push down from equal rank: belittle

To speak of someone or something as unimportant or inferior; to belittle.

Memory hook: shrinking someone with words

His misanthropic streak kept him away from group projects.

Having a deep distrust or dislike of people in general.

Memory hook: people? hard pass

He retaliates after the insult by posting a cruel comment.

To respond to harm or an insult by trying to harm back; to take revenge.

Memory hook: instant payback

She felt an instant affinity for the quiet little library.

A natural liking for or attraction to someone or something.

Memory hook: drawn like a magnet

The coach held her in high esteem for her dedication.

Respect and admiration, especially for someone’s character or achievements.

Memory hook: standing ovation

Her degree's prestige opened doors at top firms.

Widespread respect and high status earned through success or quality.

Memory hook: name that opens doors

The manager was receptive to our new idea.

Word parts: recept (take in, as in reception) + -ive (describing word) → ready to take in: open to new ideas

Willing to listen to or accept new ideas; open to suggestions.

Memory hook: open door for ideas

Even after several setbacks, she remained sanguine about the project's success.

Optimistic and hopeful, especially in a tough situation.

Memory hook: rose-colored glasses

Her ambivalence about the move showed in her hesitant smile.

Word parts: ambi- (both) + val (strength, as in valid) + -ence (state) → pulled strongly both ways: mixed feelings

Mixed feelings or uncertainty about something because you see both sides.

Memory hook: coin flipping in your head

An impartial judge listened to both sides.

Word parts: im- (not) + partial (favoring one side) → not favoring a side: fair to all

Treating all sides fairly; not biased or taking sides.

Memory hook: referee with no favorite

His indifference to the issue frustrated the committee.

Word parts: in- (not) + differ (be unlike) + -ence (state) → it makes no difference to you: lack of interest

A lack of interest or concern about something.

Memory hook: shrug and move on

She remained insensible to the noise outside, lost in thought.

Word parts: in- (not) + sens (feel, as in sense) + -ible (able to) → unable to sense: unaware, not noticing

Unaware of something; not noticing or responding to it.

Memory hook: sleeping through alarms

The judge maintained neutrality throughout the trial.

The state of not taking sides or showing preference in a conflict or debate.

Memory hook: referee not taking sides

I’m skeptical of those too-good-to-be-true ads.

Not easily convinced; having doubts.

Memory hook: one eyebrow raised

The teacher won’t tolerate cheating.

To accept or put up with something you don’t like.

Memory hook: putting up with a noisy roommate

The movie's twist felt contrived and unrealistic.

Artificial or forced; not natural.

Memory hook: forced and fake

The ad's deceptive promises fooled customers.

Word parts: decept (trick, as in deceive) + -ive (describing word) → tending to deceive: misleading

Misleading; likely to give a false impression or trick someone.

Memory hook: looks true, hides a trick

She made an earnest effort to fix her mistake.

Serious and sincere in purpose or effort.

Memory hook: no jokes, just genuine

Her genuine concern for the new student showed in how often she checked in on him.

Sincere and honestly felt; not pretended.

Memory hook: a real smile, not a camera smile

His sincerity was clear from the steady tone of his apology.

Honesty and genuineness, saying what you truly mean without pretending.

Memory hook: handwritten apology

Despite her success, she stayed unpretentious and friendly.

Word parts: un- (not) + pretentious (showy, trying to impress) → not showy: simple and genuine

Simple and genuine; not showy or trying to impress.

Memory hook: jeans at a fancy party

Please use discretion when discussing the confidential report.

Good judgment about what to say or do, especially when something is sensitive or private.

Memory hook: thinking before speaking

The editor checked every comma with exactitude.

Strict accuracy and attention to every detail.

Memory hook: measuring to the millimeter

Her delay was intentional, meant to send a message.

Done on purpose; deliberate.

Memory hook: on purpose, not an accident

She kept meticulous notes for every lab experiment.

Very careful and precise; paying close attention to every detail.

Memory hook: triple-checking every comma

An observant classmate noticed the missing step.

Quick to notice details; paying careful attention.

Memory hook: eagle eyes spotting tiny details

Investigators proved it was a premeditated scheme.

Word parts: pre- (before) + meditate (think over) → thought over beforehand: planned in advance

Planned or thought out in advance, especially a harmful act.

Memory hook: plotting the crime days in advance

Online, vigilance helps you avoid scams.

Word parts: vigil (a watch, staying awake) + -ance (state) → keeping watch: alert watchfulness for danger

Alert watchfulness for danger or trouble.

Memory hook: eyes wide on the lookout

Their desultory conversation drifted from movies to homework to the weather.

Lacking a clear plan or purpose; jumping from one thing to another.

Memory hook: aimless channel surfing

The haphazard layout made the store hard to navigate.

Word parts: hap (chance, as in happen) + hazard (risk) → left to chance: random, without a plan

Done without careful planning or order; random and careless.

Memory hook: junk drawer energy

He neglects his health during finals.

Word parts: neg (not, as in negative) + lect (pick up, as in collect) → not pick up: fail to give care or attention

To fail to give proper attention or care; to overlook.

Memory hook: a plant you forgot to water

His offhand reply sounded careless to the whole class.

Casual and done without careful thought or preparation.

Memory hook: casual comment on the fly

He offered a perfunctory apology and immediately changed the subject.

Word parts: per- (through) + funct (perform, as in function) → performed just to get through it: routine, careless

Done quickly and without real interest or care; routine and superficial.

Memory hook: going through the motions

She’s a competent leader who makes smart decisions.

Having the needed skill or ability; capable.

Memory hook: parallel park on the first try

With no script, they had to improvise the scene.

Word parts: im- (not) + provis (prepared ahead, as in provision) → not prepared ahead: made up on the spot

To create or perform without preparation; make it up on the spot.

Memory hook: making it up as you go

Their inventive app solved a problem nobody had noticed.

Word parts: in- (on) + vent (come, as in event) + -ive (describing word) → good at coming upon ideas: creative

Creative and good at coming up with new ideas or solutions.

Memory hook: duct tape fixes for everything

Her mastery of calculus impressed the class.

Great skill or command of a subject or activity.

Memory hook: level 100 skills

She proposed a pragmatic plan that saved time and money.

Word parts: pragmat (deed, action, as in practical) + -ic (describing word) → about doing: practical, focused on what works

Focused on practical solutions that work, rather than on theories or ideals.

Memory hook: duct tape solutions

After months of practice, she became proficient at coding.

Word parts: pro- (forward, as in progress) + fic (do, make, as in efficient) → making progress: advanced, highly skilled

Highly skilled and competent at a task or subject.

Memory hook: speed-typing without looking

She wrote a scholarly article on ancient maps.

Related to serious academic study; learned or academic in tone.

Memory hook: footnotes for days

Her decisive call ended the long, heated debate.

Word parts: de- (off) + cis (cut, as in incision) + -ive (describing word) → cutting off doubt: firm, settling things

Able to make firm, quick choices or settle an issue clearly.

Memory hook: one bold yes or no

The team defied expectations and won the championship.

To openly resist or go against a rule, person, or expectation.

Memory hook: walking past a keep off the grass sign

Her individualistic style made the project stand out.

Marked by independence and a preference for doing things your own way.

Memory hook: marching to your own beat

The recalcitrant lab partner refused to follow the procedure.

Stubbornly resistant to authority or control; hard to manage.

Memory hook: a mule that won't move

After the loss, the team showed remarkable resilience.

Word parts: re- (back) + sil (leap, as in somersault) + -ence (quality) → leaping back: the ability to bounce back

The ability to recover quickly from difficulty; bounce back.

Memory hook: rubber band snapping back

She stayed resolute despite the setbacks.

Firmly determined and unwavering.

Memory hook: locked on the finish line

The film's subversive humor quietly challenged the regime.

Word parts: sub- (under) + vers (turn, as in reverse) + -ive (describing word) → overturning from below: undermining

Intended to undermine or overthrow an established system or authority.

Memory hook: wedge under the throne

Around new people, she felt inhibited, barely speaking above a whisper.

Word parts: in- (in) + hibit (hold, as in exhibit) → held in: unable to act or speak freely

Unable to act or speak freely because of self-consciousness or restraint.

Memory hook: shy at the mic

Even at the party, she stayed reserved, listening more than talking.

Word parts: re- (back) + serv (keep, as in preserve) → keeping yourself back: quiet, restrained

Quiet and restrained; not showing feelings or opinions easily.

Memory hook: quiet at the party

She showed restraint and waited before replying.

Word parts: re- (back) + strain (pull tight) → pulling back tight: holding yourself back

Self-control; the act of holding back a feeling or behavior.

Memory hook: biting your tongue

She's secretive, never sharing her plans.

Keeping thoughts or plans hidden; not sharing information.

Memory hook: locked diary under the bed

The unobtrusive camera blended into the coffee shop decor.

Word parts: un- (not) + obtrusive (pushing forward, as in intrude) → not pushing into view: blends in

Not noticeable or attention-grabbing; blends into the background.

Memory hook: wallflower at a party

Some people hoard old magazines they never read.

To collect and keep a large amount, often secretly or unnecessarily.

Memory hook: closet full of untouched snacks

After the long week, she decided to indulge in a movie marathon.

To allow yourself or someone else to enjoy something, often more than is necessary.

Memory hook: extra scoop of ice cream

The predatory lender targeted students with hidden fees.

Word parts: predat (hunt prey, as in predator) + -ory (describing word) → preying on others: out to exploit them

Seeking to prey on or exploit others for advantage.

Memory hook: shark circling easy prey

The speech was bland, and the audience quickly tuned out.

Dull and lacking strong flavor, interest, or character.

Memory hook: unsalted crackers

The sudden time jump was disorienting.

Word parts: dis- (the opposite of) + orient (get your bearings) → making you lose your bearings: confusing

Causing confusion or a loss of sense of direction or context.

Memory hook: spinning in a maze

His innocuous joke about the weather drew nothing but a polite smile.

Word parts: in- (not) + noc (harm, as in innocent) + -ous (describing word) → not harmful: unlikely to bother anyone

Not likely to upset, bother, or offend anyone.

Memory hook: a class clown's harmless joke

The mystery was intriguing, so I kept reading.

Interesting in a way that makes you want to know more.

Memory hook: can't-stop-reading vibes

The sudden siren was jarring in the quiet night.

Suddenly shocking or clashing in a way that feels harsh or out of place.

Memory hook: alarm blaring in a library

The captain gave a rousing speech before kickoff.

Exciting and energizing; stirring strong emotion.

Memory hook: crowd on its feet

The lecture was tedious, and half the class yawned.

Boring because it is long, slow, or repetitive.

Memory hook: watching paint dry

The lake was tranquil at dawn, with barely a ripple on its surface.

Calm and peaceful; quiet and free from disturbance.

Memory hook: still lake at sunrise

Good lighting and framing can enhance a simple photo.

To improve or increase the quality, value, or effectiveness of something.

Memory hook: Upgrading your phone camera

The program aims to foster creativity in students.

To encourage or promote the growth or development of something.

Memory hook: watering a seed

The company offered incentives to encourage carpooling.

A reward or reason that motivates someone to act.

Memory hook: dangling a bonus

The article provokes debate on campus.

Word parts: pro- (forth, as in progress) + voke (call, voice, as in vocal) → call forth: stir up a strong reaction

To cause a strong reaction, like anger, curiosity, or discussion.

Memory hook: poke the bear

She moved quickly to rectify the billing error.

Word parts: rect (straight, right, as in rectangle) + -ify (make) → make right: correct, fix

To correct something that is wrong or fix a problem.

Memory hook: fixing a typo before hitting send

After several refinements, the prototype finally worked smoothly.

Word parts: refine (make finer, purer) + -ment (result) → a change that makes it finer: a small improvement

A small improvement or subtle detail added to make something better or more precise.

Memory hook: adding the finishing touches

Rain replenishes the reservoir each spring.

Word parts: re- (again) + plen (full, as in plenty) → make full again: refill, restore a supply

To fill up again, or to restore a supply that has been used up.

Memory hook: refill the snack bowl

The lecture stimulated her curiosity.

To make more active or excited, or to spark interest or action.

Memory hook: brain spark from coffee

Constant scratching will only aggravate the itchy rash on your arm.

Word parts: ag- (to) + grav (heavy, as in gravity) + -ate (make) → make heavier: make a problem worse

To make a problem, injury, or situation worse.

Memory hook: Pouring gasoline on a fire

They tried to circumvent the new restriction by using a loophole.

Word parts: circum- (around) + vent (come, as in event) → come around: get around a rule

To avoid or get around a rule or obstacle, often by using clever methods.

Memory hook: taking the side door

Skipping sleep will compound your stress during exams.

To make a problem or bad situation worse by adding to it.

Memory hook: piling on the problem

Hackers exploited a flaw in the website.

To use someone or something unfairly for your own benefit.

Memory hook: taking advantage of a loophole

Heavy traffic can hinder emergency responders.

Word parts: hind (behind, as in hindsight) → keep behind: hold back, slow down

To make something more difficult; to obstruct or slow down.

Memory hook: roadblock in your lane

Heavy traffic can impede emergency vehicles.

Word parts: im- (in) + ped (foot, as in pedestrian) → feet in shackles: slow down or block progress

To slow down or block progress; hinder.

Memory hook: traffic cones blocking the lane

The new data ended up negating the earlier conclusion.

Word parts: neg (no, deny, as in negative) → say no to: cancel out or make invalid

To cause something to have no effect, or to make it invalid.

Memory hook: hitting the undo button

The court moved to nullify the unfair law.

Word parts: null (nothing) + -ify (make) → make into nothing: cancel or make invalid

To make something invalid or without effect; to cancel it.

Memory hook: Void stamp on a contract

A fallen tree obstructed the road after last night's storm.

Word parts: ob- (in the way, as in obstacle) + struct (build, as in construct) → build in the way: block

To block or make it difficult to pass through or see.

Memory hook: couch in the doorway

The rickety ladder's precariousness made everyone nervous.

Word parts: prec (pray, as in prayer) + -ous (full of) + -ness (state) → hanging on a prayer: unstable, likely to fail

The state of being unstable or risky; likely to collapse or fail.

Memory hook: wobbling stack of dishes

Technical glitches could stymie the launch.

To block or hinder progress or success.

Memory hook: traffic cone in your lane

The schedule was changed to accommodate working students.

To make a change in order to meet someone's needs or wishes.

Memory hook: sliding over on the bench

Animals adapt when the climate changes.

Word parts: ad- (to) + apt (fit, suited) → make fit to: adjust to new conditions

To adjust or change so something fits new conditions or a new use.

Memory hook: chameleon changing colors

She is a dynamic leader who sparks change.

Word parts: dynam (power, as in dynamite) + -ic (describing word) → full of power: energetic and active

Full of energy and change; actively moving or developing.

Memory hook: always in motion

The city's culture is evolving with new artists and ideas.

Word parts: e- (out, a form of ex-) + volve (roll, as in revolve) → roll out, unfold: develop gradually

To change and develop gradually over time.

Memory hook: caterpillar to butterfly

Sharp fluctuations in prices rattled the market.

Word parts: fluct (wave, flow, as in fluid) + -ation (act, as in creation) → moving like waves: shifting up and down

An irregular shift up or down in level or amount.

Memory hook: roller-coaster ups and downs

After the war, the territory was reconstituted as an independent republic.

Word parts: re- (again) + constitute (set up, form) → set up again, often in a new form

To form or set up something again, often in a new or different structure.

Memory hook: an old team re-formed under a new name

New rules risk entrenching the current system.

Word parts: en- (in, as in enclose) + trench (dug ditch) → dug into a trench: set too firmly to move

To establish something so firmly that it becomes hard to change or remove.

Memory hook: cementing a post in concrete

Their perpetual bickering made every family dinner tense.

Continuing without end; constant or never stopping.

Memory hook: endless loading circle

She will persist until the problem is solved.

Word parts: per- (through, as in permanent) + sist (stand, as in resist) → stand firm all the way through: keep going

To keep going firmly, even when it’s hard or others tell you to stop.

Memory hook: keep going through headwinds

The park is preserving habitat for endangered birds.

Word parts: pre- (before) + serv (keep safe, as in conserve) → guard ahead of time: keep safe from damage

To keep something in its original state or safe from damage or decay.

Memory hook: sealing fruit in a mason jar

Traffic jams can prolong your commute.

Word parts: pro- (forth, as in progress) + long → stretch forth: make last longer

To make something last longer or extend its duration.

Memory hook: hitting the snooze button again

The company hopes to retain its best employees.

Word parts: re- (back) + tain (hold, as in contain) → hold back: keep, continue to have

To keep or continue to have something.

Memory hook: keeping receipts in a folder

The startup is now defunct after losing its funding.

Word parts: de- (off) + funct (perform, as in function) → off duty: no longer working or existing

No longer existing, active, or functioning.

Memory hook: dead app icon on your phone

The dormant volcano suddenly stirred.

Word parts: dorm (sleep, as in dormitory) → sleeping: inactive now but able to wake later

Inactive for now but able to become active later.

Memory hook: laptop on sleep mode

Her latent talent became obvious after a few lessons.

Present but hidden or not yet active.

Memory hook: seed waiting to sprout

Streaming has made many DVDs seem obsolete.

Out of date; no longer used or useful.

Memory hook: dusty flip phone

We set a provisional date and will confirm later.

Word parts: provision (arrangement for a need) + -al (describing word) → set up for the present need: temporary

Temporary and likely to change; not final.

Memory hook: pencil, not pen

A smartphone in a medieval painting looks anachronistic.

Word parts: ana- (against) + chron (time, as in chronological) → against time: out of its own period

Out of place in time; belonging to a different historical period.

Memory hook: a wristwatch in ancient Rome

The sudden policy shift had an antecedent in last year’s protests.

Word parts: ante- (before, the a in a.m.) + ced (go, as in precede) → something that goes before

A previous thing or event that comes before and often influences what follows.

Memory hook: prequel to the event

The crew is anticipating delays and leaving early.

Word parts: anti- (here: before, not against) + cip (take, as in participate) → take on beforehand: expect and prepare

To expect something and prepare for it ahead of time.

Memory hook: checking the weather before the trip

The unusually dark, heavy sky foretells a storm rolling in by evening.

Word parts: fore- (before) + tell → tell before it happens: predict

To predict something before it happens.

Memory hook: crystal ball vibes

Horse-drawn carriages were precursors to modern cars.

Word parts: pre- (before) + curs (run, as in current) + -or (one that) → one that runs ahead: comes before and leads to it

A thing or person that comes before something and signals or leads to it.

Memory hook: opening act before the main show

Dark clouds were prefiguring a storm.

Word parts: pre- (before) + figure (shape, form) → show its shape beforehand: give an early sign

To give an early sign of something that will happen later.

Memory hook: movie trailer hints

The car made an abrupt stop, throwing everyone forward in their seats.

Word parts: ab- (off) + rupt (break, as in interrupt) → broken off: sudden, without warning

Sudden and unexpected; without warning.

Memory hook: slam on the brakes

Dark clouds signaled an imminent storm.

Word parts: im- (in, on) + min (jut out, as in prominent) → hanging over you: about to happen

About to happen very soon.

Memory hook: any second now

Dark clouds signaled an impending storm.

Word parts: im- (upon) + pend (hang, as in pendulum) → hanging over you: about to happen

About to happen very soon, often something bad.

Memory hook: deadline creeping closer

With the storm rolling in, delays were inevitable.

Certain to happen; impossible to avoid.

Memory hook: the bell at the end of class

The schedule followed a predetermined plan.

Word parts: pre- (before) + determined (decided) → decided in advance

Decided or fixed in advance.

Memory hook: script written before the show

Please adhere to the lab safety rules.

Word parts: ad- (to) + here (stick, as in adhesive) → stick to: follow a rule or plan closely

To follow a rule, plan, or belief closely.

Memory hook: glued to the rulebook

The lab maintained strict compliance with the new safety code.

Word parts: comply (follow a rule or request) + -ance (the act of) → the act of complying: following the rules

The act of following rules, standards, or requests.

Memory hook: checking every box

She refused to conform to the club's strict dress code.

Word parts: con- (together) + form (shape) → take the same shape: follow the rules or match others

To follow rules or match the behavior or standards of others.

Memory hook: blending into the crowd

Attendance is mandatory for all players.

Word parts: mand (order, as in command) → ordered: required, not optional

Required by rules or law; not optional.

Memory hook: red asterisk on the form

He felt obligated to help after they supported him last year.

Word parts: ob- (to) + lig (bind, as in ligament) → bound to it: required by duty or promise

Required to do something by duty, promise, or circumstances.

Memory hook: have to, not want to

Students must follow the prescribed format for every lab report.

Word parts: pre- (before) + scrib (write, as in describe) → written beforehand: set as the required way

Set as the official or required way of doing something.

Memory hook: straight from the rulebook

The manager chose to delegate the filing to an intern.

To assign work or authority to someone else.

Memory hook: handing off chores to a sibling

Budget limits will dictate which projects move forward.

Word parts: dict (say, as in predict) → say with authority: set the terms others must follow

To determine what happens by setting the terms others must follow.

Memory hook: rules from the top

Late rent can lead to the forfeiture of your security deposit.

The loss of something as a penalty for breaking a rule or failing a duty.

Memory hook: security deposit gone

The city will implement new recycling rules this summer.

Word parts: im- (in) + ple (fill, as in complete) → fill up, fulfill: put a plan into effect

To put a plan, rule, or system into effect; carry it out.

Memory hook: from plan to action

The city is instituting free bus rides for students.

Word parts: in- (in) + stitute (set up, make stand, as in statue) → set in place: put a new system into effect

To put into effect a new system, rule, or practice.

Memory hook: rolling out a new rule

Here, the operative word is 'temporary'.

Word parts: oper (work, as in operate) + -ive (describing word) → at work, in effect: the one that actually applies

Having practical effect; the one that actually applies.

Memory hook: the word that counts

New standards regulate how companies protect data.

Word parts: regul (rule, as in regular) → control by rules: set limits, adjust

To control or adjust something by setting rules or limits.

Memory hook: thermostat and rulebook

The bank agreed to waive the monthly charge.

To choose to give up or not enforce a right, rule, or fee.

Memory hook: Wave the fee goodbye

Her analytical mind was complementary to his creativity on the project.

Word parts: complement (what completes, as in complete) + -ary (describing word, as in primary) → each completes the other

Combining with something else so each one supplies what the other lacks.

Memory hook: peanut butter + jelly

The menu comprises five appetizers and three mains.

Word parts: com- (together) + prise (take, grasp, as in comprehend) → take in together: be made up of

To be made up of certain parts or items.

Memory hook: pizza made of slices

The course will encompass art, history, and science.

Word parts: en- (in, as in enclose) + compass (circle) → take within a circle: include a wide range

To include a wide range of things within one larger whole.

Memory hook: everything under one umbrella

Thick fog engulfs the harbor at dawn.

Word parts: en- (in) + gulf (deep water, as in Gulf of Mexico) → swallow into the deep: surround or cover completely

To completely surround or cover something, often suddenly and overwhelmingly.

Memory hook: swallowed by a giant wave

Two quiet streets intersect at the library.

Word parts: inter- (between, as in international) + sect (cut, as in section) → cut between: cross or meet at a point

To cross or meet at a point.

Memory hook: roads crossing

The minor expenses were subsumed under the overall budget.

Word parts: sub- (under) + sume (take, as in consume) → take under: absorb into a larger group

To include or absorb something into a larger group or category.

Memory hook: umbrella covering all topics

Strong coffee is an acquired taste that few people enjoy at first.

Word parts: ac- (to) + quire (seek, as in inquire) → sought and gained: developed, not inborn

Developed or gained through experience, not something you are born with.

Memory hook: picked up over time

Many English science terms are derived from ancient Greek and Latin roots.

To come from a particular source or origin.

Memory hook: juice squeezed from fruit

She inherited her grandmother's house.

Word parts: in- (in, into) + herit (heir, as in heritage) → passed to you as an heir: received from those before

Received from someone who came before, like money, property, or traits.

Memory hook: grandpa's watch passed down

The rumors originate from an anonymous post.

To begin or come from a particular source or place.

Memory hook: the starting line

It's advantageous to save money before college.

Beneficial; giving a helpful edge.

Memory hook: head start in a race

The local school was the main beneficiary of the city's new technology grant.

Word parts: benefici (benefit, as in beneficial) + -ary (person, as in missionary) → a person who receives a benefit

A person who gains an advantage or benefit from something.

Memory hook: the one who gets the perks

The funding is contingent on improved test scores.

Dependent on something else happening; conditional.

Memory hook: strings attached

He tried to reciprocate her help by tutoring her brother.

Word parts: re- (back) + pro- (forward, as in progress) → back and forth: give back what you get

To respond by giving back the same kind of action, feeling, or favor.

Memory hook: returning a high-five

The manager assigned the extra task to a subordinate.

Word parts: sub- (under) + ordin (rank, as in order) → placed lower in rank: one who ranks below another

A person who ranks below another in authority or position.

Memory hook: below the boss

Young plants are susceptible to frost.

Word parts: sus- (up from under) + cept (take, as in accept) + -ible (able to be) → able to take things in: easily affected

Easily affected or harmed by something.

Memory hook: Catching colds easily

She chose to disengage from the online debate before it got toxic.

Word parts: dis- (the opposite of) + engage (get involved) → stop being involved: withdraw

To separate or withdraw from something you were attached to or involved in.

Memory hook: slipping free of Velcro

The nonprofit used social media to disseminate safety tips.

To spread information, ideas, or news widely.

Memory hook: spreading seeds of info

Scientists isolate the cells before testing.

Word parts: isol (island, as in isle) → make into an island: set apart to stand alone

To set apart from others; to separate something so it stands alone.

Memory hook: alone on a tiny island

Despite many trials, the experiment was fruitless.

Word parts: fruit (result, as in the fruits of your labor) + -less (without) → bearing no fruit: no result, unsuccessful

Failing to produce a result; unsuccessful.

Memory hook: all effort no results

In the final minutes, the underdogs prevail.

Word parts: pre- (before, ahead) + vail (be strong, as in valiant) → be stronger than others: win out

To win, especially after a struggle.

Memory hook: win in the end

In the heat, some hikers succumb to exhaustion.

To stop resisting and be overcome by something (like pressure, temptation, or illness).

Memory hook: give in to the pressure

Her joke had unintended consequences.

Not planned or meant; accidental.

Memory hook: accidental ripple effect