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Sat Vocabulary โ Quiz 1
Sat Vocabulary Quiz 1 (30 MCQs)
This multiple-choice question set evaluates students' understanding of SAT vocabulary, including the definition and context usage of words like benevolence and malevolence, household duties, obsequiousness, and singular noun possession. It also tests skills such as distinguishing between positive and negative intentions in vocabulary, identifying synonyms with different connotations, and recognizing possessive singular nouns.
Quiz Instructions
Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.
1.
Only ten years ago, being an avid reader and a traveler meant carrying a ..... backpack stuffed with books ..... these days we need only an e-reader.
A) Candidness.
B) Derisive.
C) Cumbersome.
D) Reprobate.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
C) Cumbersome.
The sentence suggests a shift from carrying heavy, physical books to using an e-reader for reading and traveling. "Cumbersome" means็ฌจ้็๏ผไธไพฟๆบ็, which fits the context of large, heavy backpacks stuffed with books compared to the convenience of modern e-readers.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Candidness (ๅฆ็) - Does not fit the context of physical versus digital reading materials.
Option B:
Derisive (่ฎฝๅบ็) - Not relevant to the description of backpacks and e-readers.
Option C:
Cumbersome (็ฌจ้็๏ผไธไพฟๆบ็) - Correct, as it describes heavy backpacks stuffed with books.
Option D:
Reprobate (ไธ้ฝฟ็ไบบ) - Does not fit the context of reading materials or travel.
2.
What is the meaning of the word 'malicious'?
A) Having the intention to help and support others.
B) Being indifferent towards others.
C) Having the intention to harm or cause trouble to others.
D) Having good intentions towards others.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The word 'malicious' refers to having the intention to harm or cause trouble to others, which aligns with Option C. This term is often used in contexts where someone deliberately acts in a way that is intended to hurt another person.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Having the intention to help and support others - Incorrect; this describes 'benign' or 'kind' actions, not malicious ones.
Option B:
Being indifferent towards others - Incorrect; indifference means a lack of interest or concern, which is different from actively wanting to harm someone.
Option C:
Having the intention to harm or cause trouble to others - Correct; this accurately defines 'malicious' behavior.
Option D:
Having good intentions towards others - Incorrect; this describes positive, helpful actions, not malicious ones.
3.
Of little value; gaudy
A) Tawdry.
B) Credible.
C) Absolution.
D) Obdurate.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Tawdry accurately describes something of little value and gaudy, often used to refer to showy but cheap or tasteless objects or displays.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Tawdry fits the description perfectly.
Option B:
Incorrect. Credible means believable or worthy of belief, not related to value or appearance.
Option C:
Incorrect. Absolution refers to forgiveness or release from guilt, unrelated to value or appearance.
Option D:
Incorrect. Obdurate means stubbornly unyielding, not related to value or appearance.
4.
How did Susan's tenacious efforts help her?
A) She won the admiration of her teacher.
B) She became a famous singer.
C) She lost her homework.
D) She traveled the world.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Susan's tenacious efforts helped her by winning the admiration of her teacher because perseverance and hard work are often recognized and appreciated in academic settings, leading to positive reinforcement from educators.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Tenacity typically results in recognition and respect from teachers.
Option B:
Incorrect. Becoming a famous singer is not directly related to tenacious efforts in an academic context.
Option C:
Incorrect. Losing homework would be a negative outcome, contrary to the positive impact of tenacity.
Option D:
Incorrect. Traveling the world is unrelated to Susan's academic or personal achievements described here.
5.
Unadorned, stern .....
A) Austere.
B) Aloof.
C) Bulwark.
D) Cacophony.
Show Answer
Explanations:
A) Austere: This word describes something simple and unadorned, which aligns with the given description "Unadorned." Additionally, it can imply a sense of sternness, fitting the second part of the description. Therefore, "Austere" is the correct answer.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Austere - Describes something simple and unadorned with a hint of sternness.
Option B:
Aloof - Implies detachment or indifference, not necessarily unadorned or stern.
Option C:
Bulwark - Refers to a strong defense or support, unrelated to the given description.
Option D:
Cacophony - Describes a harsh, discordant sound, irrelevant to the context provided.
6.
Flexible; not stubborn
A) Crepuscular.
B) Pliable.
C) Objective.
D) Enunciation.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Pliable means able to be easily bent or shaped, which aligns with the description of being flexible and not stubborn.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Crepuscular refers to something active at twilight, unrelated to flexibility.
Option B:
Pliable is correct as it means able to be easily bent or shaped, matching the description of being flexible and not stubborn.
Option C:
Objective means unbiased or fact-based, which does not relate to flexibility.
Option D:
Enunciation refers to the clear pronunciation of words, unrelated to flexibility.
7.
Special advantage or special power
A) Adequate.
B) Clout.
C) Devise.
D) Bittersweet.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Clout refers to the power, influence, or authority that someone has over others, making it a fitting term for a special advantage or special power in certain contexts.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Adequate means sufficient or enough. It does not convey the idea of power or influence.
Option B:
Clout is correct as it denotes significant influence or authority, aligning with a special advantage or power.
Option C:
Devise means to create or invent something. This term does not fit the context of having an advantage or power.
Option D:
Bittersweet describes a mixture of pleasant and unpleasant feelings, which is unrelated to special advantages or powers.
8.
To appease, soothe, or satisfy
A) Propitious.
B) Propitiate.
C) Fortuitous.
D) Destine.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Propitiate means to appease, soothe, or satisfy, often in the context of gaining favor or goodwill from someone, especially a deity or superior. This aligns with the given definition in the question.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Propitious refers to being favorable or auspicious; it does not mean to appease.
Option B:
Correct, as it means to appease, soothe, or satisfy.
Option C:
Fortuitous means happening by chance or luck; it is unrelated to the concept of appeasing or satisfying.
Option D:
Destine means to preordain or appoint; it does not relate to the act of appeasement or satisfaction.
9.
Very bold, daring
A) Auspicious.
B) Audacious.
C) Archaic.
D) Ascetic.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Option B) Audacious is correct because "audacious" means boldly daring and confident, which aligns with the description of being "very bold, daring."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Auspicious refers to something favorable or promising good fortune, not related to boldness.
Option B:
Audacious means boldly daring and confident, matching the given description perfectly.
Option C:
Archaic relates to things from an earlier time period, not describing boldness.
Option D:
Ascetic refers to someone who practices self-denial or lives a very simple life, unrelated to being bold and daring.
10.
There is a ..... of jobs hiring today that require menial skills, since most jobs have either been automated or outsourced.
A) Affluent.
B) Indigenous.
C) Stem.
D) Demean.
E) Paucity.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The word "paucity" means a lack of something, often used to describe a scarcity or small number. In the context of the sentence, it accurately conveys that there is a shortage of jobs requiring menial skills due to automation and outsourcing.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
"Affluent" means wealthy or prosperous; does not fit the context.
Option B:
"Indigenous" refers to native people or things, irrelevant here.
Option C:
"Stem" can mean a plant part or a verb form, neither fits the context.
Option D:
"Demean" means to lower in rank or respect; does not fit the context.
Option E:
"Paucity" correctly indicates scarcity of jobs requiring menial skills.
11.
To strongly dislike, loath
A) Abyss.
B) Affinity.
C) Abominate.
D) Abut.
Show Answer
Explanations:
C) Abominate is the correct answer because it means to strongly dislike, detest, or loathe something intensely. This aligns perfectly with the given definition in the question.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Abyss refers to a deep and very dark hole or a metaphorical state of extreme depth or despair; it does not mean to dislike.
Option B:
Affinity means a natural attraction, liking, or kinship; the opposite of what is required here.
Option C:
Abominate correctly denotes a strong aversion or hatred towards something.
Option D:
Abut means to be in direct contact with or border on; it does not relate to disliking at all.
12.
What word means concerned with practical matters?
A) Pragmatic.
B) Procrastinate.
C) Precocious.
D) Pretentious.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Pragmatic means concerned with practical matters and dealing with things in a realistic and sensible way, focusing on what is useful or effective rather than on abstract theories or ideas.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Pragmatic aligns with the definition of being concerned with practical matters.
Option B:
Procrastinate means to delay or postpone action, not related to practical concerns.
Option C:
Precocious refers to someone who is unusually mature or advanced for their age, unrelated to practicality.
Option D:
Pretentious describes someone who tries to appear more important or intelligent than they really are, not related to practical concerns.
13.
The waiter tips for the day were lousy.
A) Waiters'.
B) Waiters.
C) Waiter's.
D) None of the above.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The possessive form "Waiter's" is correct because the sentence refers to a singular noun (waiter) and indicates that the tips belong to this waiter. The apostrophe in "Waiter's" shows possession, making it the appropriate choice.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Waiters'. This option is incorrect because it uses an apostrophe with a plural noun (waiters), which does not match the singular subject of the sentence.
Option B:
Waiters. This option is incorrect as it does not use any possessive form, and thus does not indicate that the tips belong to the waiter.
Option C:
Waiter's. This option is correct because it uses a singular possessive form, indicating that the tips belong to one waiter.
Option D:
None of the above. This option is incorrect as Option C correctly identifies the proper usage.
14.
Select the word that best fills in the blank.The man hoped to ..... a strong work ethic in his son so he gave him a job on the weekends.
A) Foster.
B) Compassion.
C) Clairvoyant.
D) Forbearance.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Foster means to encourage the growth and development of something, often in a nurturing way. In this context, the man wants to encourage his son to develop a strong work ethic, making "foster" the most appropriate choice.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Foster - Correct. It means to encourage and nurture the development of something.
Option B:
Compassion - This refers to a feeling of deep sympathy and sorrow for another who is suffering, which does not fit the context of teaching work ethic.
Option C:
Clairvoyant - This means having or displaying the power of seeing into the future, which is unrelated to teaching work ethic.
Option D:
Forbearance - This refers to the capacity to endure pain or frustration without showing annoyance or complaint, also not relevant to the context of instilling a work ethic.
15.
Resembling a dream
A) Obligatory.
B) Tamper.
C) Surreal.
D) Precarious.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
C) Surreal.
The phrase "resembling a dream" suggests something that is not real and has an otherworldly quality, which aligns with the definition of surreal. Words like "obligatory," "tamper," and "precarious" do not capture this sense of unreality or fantastical nature.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Obligatory - This means required or mandatory, which does not fit the context of a dream-like quality.
Option B:
Tamper - To interfere with something, usually in an unauthorized way. It is unrelated to dreams or unreality.
Option C:
Surreal - This term describes something that resembles a dream and has an unusual or unexpected quality, fitting the context perfectly.
Option D:
Precarious - Meaning dangerous or unstable, which does not relate to the idea of dreaming.
16.
What word means:Hate
A) Wary.
B) Abhor.
C) Superfluous.
D) Vindicate.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The word
abhor
means to hate intensely, which makes it the correct answer for a word that means "hate."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Wary means cautious or suspicious; not related to hatred.
Option B:
Abhor is the correct term meaning to hate intensely.
Option C:
Superfluous means unnecessary or excessive, unrelated to hatred.
Option D:
Vindicate means to clear from blame or injustice; not related to hatred.
17.
The act of giving or bestowing; a formal offer
A) Gestate.
B) Conferment.
C) Rapport.
D) Euphoria.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Conferment refers to the act of giving, granting, or bestowing something formally. This aligns with the definition provided in the question.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Gestate means to develop or bring into existence gradually; not related to giving or bestowing.
Option B:
Conferment is correct as it directly relates to the act of giving or bestowing, often in a formal context.
Option C:
Rapport refers to a friendly and harmonious relationship; not related to giving or bestowing.
Option D:
Euphoria is a feeling of intense happiness and excitement; unrelated to the act of giving or bestowing.
18.
Pertaining to a pig .....
A) Bludgeon.
B) Porcine.
C) Reminisce.
D) Beleaguer.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The term "porcine" is derived from the Latin word for pig, and it specifically refers to anything related to pigs. Therefore, option B) Porcine is correct as it directly relates to a pig.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Bludgeon means to hit or strike with great force, unrelated to pigs.
Option B:
Porcine refers to anything related to pigs, making this the correct answer.
Option C:
Reminisce means to recall and talk about the past, not related to pigs.
Option D:
Beleaguer means to besiege or harass persistently, unrelated to pigs.
19.
To create a more equitable society, we must find ways to ..... outdated laws that perpetuate inequality.
A) Abet.
B) Abolish.
C) Abhor.
D) Abominable.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Abolish" is the correct choice because it means to formally put an end to something, which fits well with the context of ending outdated laws that perpetuate inequality. The other options do not fit as well: "abet" (to help or encourage), "abhor" (to regard with extreme dislike), and "abominable" (extremely bad or offensive) are not appropriate in this context.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Abet means to help or encourage, which does not fit the context of ending laws.
Option B:
Abolish means to formally put an end to something, fitting well with ending outdated laws.
Option C:
Abhor means to regard with extreme dislike, which is not relevant here.
Option D:
Abominable means extremely bad or offensive, which does not fit the context of legal reform.
20.
Give me a truly ..... reason why you're late and not the flimsy excuse you usually give.
A) Blatant.
B) Tawdry.
C) Absolved.
D) Plausible.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The word "plausible" means reasonable and believable, which fits the context of asking for a genuine reason rather than a flimsy excuse. A truly plausible reason would be one that sounds convincing and realistic to the listener.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Blatant - means obvious or clear; not suitable here.
Option B:
Tawdry - means cheap, shabby, or lacking in dignity; not relevant.
Option C:
Absolved - means freed from blame or punishment; irrelevant to the context.
Option D:
Plausible - correct as it means reasonable and believable, fitting the request for a genuine reason.
21.
What does obsequious mean?
A) Being disobedient towards elders.
B) Truthfully praising other people.
C) Flattery of influential people.
D) Being rude to people.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Flattery of influential people is the correct definition of "obsequious." This term refers to behavior that shows excessive and insincere respect or admiration, often aimed at gaining favor from those in power or with influence.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Being disobedient towards elders does not align with the meaning of obsequious. It implies a lack of respect rather than excessive flattery.
Option B:
Truthfully praising other people is not the same as being obsequious, which involves insincere flattery to gain favor.
Option C:
Flattery of influential people accurately describes what "obsequious" means. It involves excessive and often insincere praise or respect given to those in power.
Option D:
Being rude to people is the opposite of obsequious behavior, which involves excessive respect rather than disrespect.
22.
Choose the vocabulary word that means:(v) struggle by every available means to gain or achieve something
A) Intuition.
B) Rejuvenate.
C) Microcosm.
D) Jockey.
E) Pivot.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The correct answer is
D) Jockey.
A jockey struggles by every available means to gain or achieve a win in a horse race, which aligns with the definition of the given vocabulary word.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Intuition - refers to instinctive understanding without conscious reasoning. Not related to struggle.
Option B:
Rejuvenate - means to restore vigor or freshness, not struggling for achievement.
Option C:
Microcosm - a small entity that represents the characteristics of a larger whole. Not relevant to the context of struggle.
Option D:
Jockey - correctly describes someone who struggles by every available means to gain or achieve something, specifically in a competitive context like horse racing.
Option E:
Pivot - refers to a turning point or central point around which things change. Not related to the concept of struggle for achievement.
23.
All of the following could be considered as synonyms for the word "expound" except .....
A) Confuse.
B) Clarify.
C) Elaborate.
D) Express.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Expound" means to explain something in detail, often elaborately. "Clarify," "elaborate," and "express" can all be synonyms for "expound." However, "confuse" is the opposite of expounding; it involves making something unclear or difficult to understand.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Confuse. This means to make something unclear or difficult to understand, which is not a synonym for expounding.
Option B:
Clarify. This means to make clear and understandable, often used in the context of explaining something in detail.
Option C:
Elaborate. This means to give more details or information about something, which is similar to expounding.
Option D:
Express. This can mean to state or convey an idea clearly and thoroughly, often through detailed explanation.
24.
In times of the suffrage movement, woman were responsible for HOUSEHOLD DUTIES.
A) Domestic.
B) Carpool duty.
C) Dog house.
D) The diapers.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The term "household duties" refers to the domestic tasks and responsibilities typically handled within a home, such as cleaning, cooking, and caring for children. This aligns with option A) Domestic.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Household duties are synonymous with domestic tasks.
Option B:
Incorrect. Carpool duty is a specific responsibility not encompassed by household duties.
Option C:
Incorrect. "Dog house" refers to a shelter for dogs, unrelated to household responsibilities.
Option D:
Incorrect. Diapers are an item used in household duties but do not define the term itself.
25.
Secretive, hidden
A) Guile.
B) Furtive.
C) Indignant.
D) Garish.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Furtive means secretive and hidden, making it the correct answer as it directly matches the given description.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Guile refers to cunning or deceit, which does not match "secretive, hidden."
Option B:
Furtive is synonymous with secretive and hidden, making it correct.
Option C:
Indignant means resentful or annoyed, unrelated to the given description.
Option D:
Garish describes something showy or gaudy, which does not fit "secretive, hidden."
26.
During the Vietnam War, young men sought refuge in Canada and enroll in colleges to avoid the draft.
A) Enrolled.
B) Will enroll.
C) No Change.
D) Enrolls.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The sentence describes a historical action that has already occurred, so the past tense verb "enrolled" is correct.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Correct. Uses the past tense to indicate an action completed in the past.
Option B:
Incorrect. Uses future tense which does not fit the context of a historical event.
Option C:
Incorrect. Suggests no change, implying present or future tense, which is inappropriate for describing a past action.
Option D:
Incorrect. Uses third-person singular form, which is unnecessary and incorrect in this context.
27.
To frustrate or confuse
A) Foist.
B) Disconcert.
C) Flippancy.
D) Consternation.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Disconcert means to upset the composure of; confuse or perplex, making it a suitable synonym for "to frustrate or confuse."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Foist - means to impose (something unwanted) on someone, not directly related.
Option B:
Disconcert - correctly means to upset the composure of; confuse or perplex.
Option C:
Flippancy - means a lack of seriousness or respect, unrelated.
Option D:
Consternation - means great surprise and alarm, not directly related.
28.
What is the difference between "benevolent" and "malevolent" ?
A) Both mean generous.
B) Benevolent means generous; malevolent means wishing evil to others.
C) Benevolent means evil; malevolent means kind.
D) Both mean unfaithful.
Show Answer
Explanations:
Benevolent means having or showing a kind and generous nature, often involving acts of charity or goodwill towards others. Malevolent means having or showing ill will; wishing harm on others. This aligns with option B.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Both mean generous - Incorrect as benevolent specifically refers to generosity and kindness, while malevolent relates to harmful intentions.
Option B:
Benevolent means generous; malevolent means wishing evil to others - Correct definition of both terms.
Option C:
Benevolent means evil; malevolent means kind - Incorrect as benevolent is associated with kindness, not evil.
Option D:
Both mean unfaithful - Incorrect as neither term relates to faithfulness or infidelity.
29.
What part of speech is the word "inexorable" ?
A) Noun.
B) Adverb.
C) Verb.
D) Adjective.
Show Answer
Explanations:
The word "inexorable" is an adjective, used to describe something that cannot be stopped or avoided, as in "the inexorable march of time."
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Noun. Incorrect; "inexorable" does not denote a person, place, thing, or idea.
Option B:
Adverb. Incorrect; adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs and typically end in -ly, whereas "inexorable" ends in -able/-ible which is characteristic of adjectives.
Option C:
Verb. Incorrect; verbs express actions, occurrences, or states of being, while "inexorable" describes a quality or condition.
Option D:
Adjective. Correct; as an adjective, it modifies nouns by describing their qualities or characteristics.
30.
If someone is described as "parsimonious, " what are they likely to do?
A) Spend money freely.
B) Be stingy and unwilling to spend.
C) Eat excessively.
D) Teach others.
Show Answer
Explanations:
"Be stingy and unwilling to spend" accurately describes a person who is parsimonious. Parsimony means being very careful with money, often to the point of being miserly.
Option Analysis:
Option A:
Spend money freely - Incorrect. This contradicts the definition of being parsimonious.
Option B:
Be stingy and unwilling to spend - Correct. This aligns with the meaning of being parsimonious.
Option C:
Eat excessively - Irrelevant. Parsimony relates to spending habits, not eating behavior.
Option D:
Teach others - Unrelated. This option does not pertain to the concept of being parsimonious.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between benevolence and malevolence?
Benevolence refers to kindness, generosity, and goodwill towards others, while malevolence involves ill will or a desire to harm others. These terms are often used in discussions of character and ethics.
How can I improve my understanding of singular noun possession?
To better understand singular noun possession, focus on learning the correct use of apostrophes to indicate ownership. Practice by identifying possessive forms in sentences and using them correctly.
What are some synonyms for the word "expound"?
Some synonyms for "expound" include explain, elaborate, elucidate, and explicate. These words can be used interchangeably in contexts where you need to describe a detailed or thorough explanation.
How does studying sat vocabulary help with the SAT exam?
Studying SAT vocabulary helps improve your reading comprehension and writing skills, which are crucial for the SAT. A strong vocabulary can also enhance your ability to answer questions accurately and efficiently.
What is surrealist vocabulary?
Surrealist vocabulary refers to words or phrases that evoke the style of surrealism, a movement in art and literature characterized by dreamlike imagery and unexpected juxtapositions. This can include unusual or abstract terms.