--- title: "306 MORE Vocabulary Words for the SAT & ACT | Elite Prep" description: "306 more SAT and ACT vocabulary words, each with its definition, synonyms, antonyms and an example sentence, to study after the original 306-word list." url: "https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/" image: "https://media.eliteprep.com/unsplash%2Bbooks%2Bworn%2Bpages-webp-card.jpg" language: "en" datePublished: "2026-09-15" source: "eliteprep build" --- [ACT](https://eliteprep.com/blog/category/act/) [SAT](https://eliteprep.com/blog/category/sat/) [Test Prep](https://eliteprep.com/blog/category/test-prep/) [Study Tips](https://eliteprep.com/blog/category/study-tips/) [Resources](https://eliteprep.com/blog/category/resources/) # 306 MORE Vocabulary Words You Must Know for the SAT & ACT September 15, 2026 34 min read [Explore Digital SAT® Prep](https://eliteprep.com/programs/sat-prep/) ![A row of worn hardcover books standing upright, seen close-up from their page edges](https://eliteprep.com/media/unsplash%2Bbooks%2Bworn%2Bpages-webp-w800.webp) Building a strong vocabulary takes time, and there are always more useful words to learn. Our original [**306 Vocabulary Words You Must Know for the SAT & ACT**](https://eliteprep.com/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-act/) introduced students to essential vocabulary for understanding challenging passages, interpreting precise language, and navigating standardized tests with greater confidence. This new collection, **306 MORE Vocabulary Words You Must Know for the SAT & ACT**, builds on that foundation with 306 additional words. Together, the two lists provide students with **612 high-value vocabulary words** to strengthen their reading, writing, and test-taking skills. ## Reading Comprehension The SAT and ACT require students to understand increasingly sophisticated texts across literature, history, social science, and science. A broader vocabulary helps you comprehend unfamiliar passages more efficiently, recognize subtle distinctions in meaning, and better understand an author's ideas, tone, and argument. ## Words in Context Knowing a word's definition is only part of vocabulary mastery. On the SAT and ACT, you must often determine which word most precisely fits the meaning and logic of a passage. Expanding your vocabulary helps you distinguish among words with similar but different meanings. ## Writing and Language Strong vocabulary also supports your ability to evaluate [word choice](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2019/3/27/word-choice-and-diction-errors-on-the-sat-amp-act/) and communicate ideas precisely. Understanding how words function in context can help you recognize clearer, more accurate, and more effective ways to express an idea. ## Confidence Every word you learn makes unfamiliar vocabulary less intimidating. By studying these 306 additional words alongside the original 306, you will be better prepared to encounter challenging language without allowing a single unfamiliar word to disrupt your understanding of an entire passage. SAT & ACT Vocabulary Words Here are 306 more words you must know for the SAT and ACT: ## A [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Abate Verb To become less intense or to reduce in force **Root** abat- (lessen) **Synonyms** Diminish **Antonyms** Intensify The winds began to abate after midnight, allowing crews to resume repairs. ### Abolish Verb To formally put an end to a system, practice, or institution **Root** abol- (destroy/end) **Synonyms** Eliminate **Antonyms** Establish The reformers sought to abolish a rule that no longer served its original purpose. ### Abound Verb To exist in large numbers or quantities **Root** abund- (plenty) **Synonyms** Teem **Antonyms** Lack Examples of the pattern abound in the later chapters of the study. ### Abridge Verb To shorten a text without losing its essential meaning **Root** bridg-/brev- (shorten) **Synonyms** Condense **Antonyms** Expand The editor abridged the memoir for publication while preserving its central argument. ### Abstruse Adj. Difficult to understand because of complexity or obscurity **Root** abstrus- (hidden) **Synonyms** Obscure **Antonyms** Clear The article's abstruse terminology made the basic finding harder to recognize. ### Acclaim Noun/Verb Enthusiastic public praise; to praise publicly **Root** claim-/clam- (call out) **Synonyms** Praise **Antonyms** Condemn The novel received critical acclaim for its inventive structure. ### Accommodate Verb To make room for, adapt to, or meet the needs of **Root** commod- (fit/convenient) **Synonyms** Adapt **Antonyms** Exclude The revised model can accommodate several competing explanations. ### Accrete Verb To grow gradually by the addition of layers or material **Root** cret-/cresc- (grow) **Synonyms** Accumulate **Antonyms** Erode Mineral deposits accrete slowly around the vent over many years. ### Acquiesce Verb To accept something reluctantly but without protest **Root** quiesc- (rest/quiet) **Synonyms** Consent **Antonyms** Resist The committee acquiesced to the compromise after hours of debate. ### Adroit Adj. Skillful and clever, especially in handling a situation **Root** droit- (right/skillful) **Synonyms** Deft **Antonyms** Clumsy Her adroit handling of the interview prevented the discussion from becoming hostile. ### Aesthetic Adj./Noun Concerned with beauty or artistic taste; a particular artistic style **Root** aesthet- (perception) **Synonyms** Artistic **Antonyms** Unattractive The architect favored an aesthetic that emphasized simplicity and natural light. ### Affinity Noun A natural attraction, similarity, or connection **Root** affin- (related) **Synonyms** Liking **Antonyms** Aversion The researcher noted an affinity between the two authors' approaches to narrative. ### Affront Noun/Verb An action or remark that causes offense; to insult openly **Root** front- (face/confront) **Synonyms** Insult **Antonyms** Compliment The decision was viewed as an affront to the community's long-standing traditions. ### Aggrandize Verb To increase the power, status, or importance of someone or something **Root** grand- (great) **Synonyms** Elevate **Antonyms** Diminish Critics argued that the biography tried to aggrandize its subject beyond the evidence. ### Aggregation Noun A collection or gathering of separate things into a whole **Root** greg- (group/flock) **Synonyms** Collection **Antonyms** Dispersion The final dataset was an aggregation of records from twelve independent studies. ### Align Verb To bring into agreement, coordination, or proper position **Root** line- (line) **Synonyms** Coordinate **Antonyms** Diverge The new evidence aligns with the earlier interpretation of the inscription. ### Alleviate Verb To make pain, difficulty, or a problem less severe **Root** lev- (lighten) **Synonyms** Relieve **Antonyms** Aggravate The policy was designed to alleviate the financial burden on small organizations. ### Allocate Verb To distribute resources or duties for a particular purpose **Root** loc- (place) **Synonyms** Assign **Antonyms** Withhold The agency allocated additional funds to regions facing the greatest need. ### Amass Verb To gather or accumulate a large amount **Root** mass- (heap) **Synonyms** Accumulate **Antonyms** Disperse Over decades, the archive amassed thousands of letters and photographs. ### Ameliorate Verb To make a bad or unsatisfactory situation better **Root** melior- (better) **Synonyms** Improve **Antonyms** Worsen The intervention helped ameliorate the effects of prolonged drought. ### Amenable Adj. Open and responsive to suggestion; capable of being affected or treated **Root** amen- (pleasant/compliant) **Synonyms** Receptive **Antonyms** Resistant The director was amenable to revising the plan after reviewing the new data. ### Amorphous Adj. Lacking a clearly defined shape, structure, or organization **Root** morph- (form) **Synonyms** Formless **Antonyms** Structured The movement remained amorphous until its leaders adopted a formal platform. ### Analogous Adj. Similar in a way that permits a useful comparison **Root** analog- (proportion/relation) **Synonyms** Comparable **Antonyms** Dissimilar The author argues that the two historical episodes are analogous in several important respects. ### Anathema Noun Something or someone intensely disliked or rejected **Root** anathem- (curse) **Synonyms** Abhorrence **Antonyms** Favorite For the minimalist designer, unnecessary ornament was anathema. ### Annihilate Verb To destroy completely **Root** nihil- (nothing) **Synonyms** Destroy **Antonyms** Preserve The collision was powerful enough to annihilate the fragile structure. ### Anomalous Adj. Deviating from what is normal, standard, or expected **Root** nomal- (regular) **Synonyms** Abnormal **Antonyms** Typical Researchers repeated the measurement because the first result was anomalous. ### Anomaly Noun Something that deviates from what is normal or expected **Root** nomal- (regular) **Synonyms** Irregularity **Antonyms** Norm The unusually high reading appeared to be an anomaly rather than a lasting trend. ### Antecedence Noun The condition of coming before something else in time or order **Root** ante- + ced- (before + go) **Synonyms** Priority **Antonyms** Succession The scholar emphasized the antecedence of the earlier manuscript. ### Anthropogenic Adj. Caused or produced by human activity **Root** anthrop- + gen- (human + produce) **Synonyms** Human-caused **Antonyms** Natural The study separates anthropogenic warming from changes caused by natural cycles. ### Apathy Noun Lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern **Root** path- (feeling) **Synonyms** Indifference **Antonyms** Enthusiasm Public apathy made it difficult for organizers to sustain the campaign. ### Appraise Verb To assess the value, quality, or significance of something **Root** pris-/preti- (value) **Synonyms** Evaluate **Antonyms** Ignore Experts appraised the artifact before the museum agreed to purchase it. ### Apprise Verb To inform or notify someone **Root** pris- (inform) **Synonyms** Inform **Antonyms** Conceal The chair apprised the board of the new evidence before the vote. ### Arcane Adj. Understood by few; mysterious or specialized **Root** arcan- (secret) **Synonyms** Esoteric **Antonyms** Familiar The manual relied on arcane terminology known mainly to specialists. ### Archetypal Adj. Representing a very typical or ideal example of a type **Root** arche- + typ- (original + model) **Synonyms** Quintessential **Antonyms** Atypical The character is an archetypal trickster who disrupts social conventions. ### Ascribe Verb To attribute something to a particular cause, source, or person **Root** scrib- (write/assign) **Synonyms** Attribute **Antonyms** Dissociate The researchers ascribed the decline to a combination of environmental factors. ### Assuage Verb To make an unpleasant feeling or condition less intense **Root** suav-/saug- (soothe) **Synonyms** Soothe **Antonyms** Intensify The additional evidence did little to assuage concerns about the study's reliability. ### Assuming Adj. Presumptuous or overly confident; also taking something as given **Root** sum- (take) **Synonyms** Presumptuous **Antonyms** Modest His assuming tone suggested that he expected agreement without offering evidence. ### Attenuate Verb To reduce the force, effect, or intensity of something **Root** tenu- (thin) **Synonyms** Weaken **Antonyms** Amplify Dense vegetation can attenuate noise from a nearby roadway. ### Attest Verb To provide evidence or testimony that something is true **Root** test- (witness) **Synonyms** Confirm **Antonyms** Deny Several independent records attest to the settlement's early importance. ### Attrition Noun Gradual reduction or weakening through sustained pressure or loss **Root** trit- (rub/wear) **Synonyms** Erosion **Antonyms** Growth The organization lost volunteers through steady attrition over several years. ### Authentic Adj. Genuine; real and not copied or fabricated **Root** authent- (genuine) **Synonyms** Genuine **Antonyms** Fake Experts concluded that the signature was authentic after comparing it with verified samples. ### Authoritative Adj. Reliable and commanding respect because of expertise or accuracy **Root** author- (source/originator) **Synonyms** Definitive **Antonyms** Unreliable The review is considered an authoritative account of the field's early development. ## B [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Banal Adj. So common or overused as to be unoriginal or boring **Root** ban- (commonplace) **Synonyms** Trite **Antonyms** Original The critic dismissed the film's message as banal despite its impressive visuals. ### Begrudge Verb To resent someone for having or receiving something **Root** grudge- (resentment) **Synonyms** Resent **Antonyms** Welcome Few scholars would begrudge the researcher recognition for years of careful work. ### Belie Verb To give a false impression of or contradict **Root** lie- (false appearance) **Synonyms** Contradict **Antonyms** Confirm The calm surface of the lake belied the strong current beneath it. ### Benign Adj. Gentle, harmless, or not threatening **Root** ben- (good) **Synonyms** Harmless **Antonyms** Harmful What first appeared to be a serious defect proved to be benign. ### Bestow Verb To give something as an honor, gift, or benefit **Root** stow- (place/give) **Synonyms** Grant **Antonyms** Withhold The academy bestowed its highest award on the pioneering scientist. ### Breadth Noun Wide range, scope, or extent **Root** broad- (wide) **Synonyms** Scope **Antonyms** Narrowness The breadth of the survey allowed the researchers to compare many regions. ### Burgeoning Adj. Growing or developing rapidly **Root** bourgeon- (bud/grow) **Synonyms** Expanding **Antonyms** Declining A burgeoning body of evidence challenged the older theory. ## C [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Calibrate Verb To adjust or check an instrument so that it measures accurately **Root** calibr- (measure) **Synonyms** Adjust **Antonyms** Misalign Technicians calibrated the sensors before beginning the experiment. ### Capacious Adj. Having a great deal of space or capacity **Root** cap- (hold) **Synonyms** Roomy **Antonyms** Cramped The capacious archive can house millions of documents. ### Capricious Adj. Changing suddenly and unpredictably **Root** capric- (whim) **Synonyms** Fickle **Antonyms** Consistent The river's capricious course made permanent settlement difficult. ### Casual Adj. Done without much thought, formality, or concern; occasional **Root** cas- (chance) **Synonyms** Informal **Antonyms** Deliberate A casual reading might miss the qualification in the final sentence. ### Catalyze Verb To cause or accelerate a change or process **Root** catalys- (trigger) **Synonyms** Spur **Antonyms** Inhibit The discovery helped catalyze a new wave of research. ### Circumspection Noun Careful consideration of possible risks or consequences **Root** circum- + spect- (around + look) **Synonyms** Caution **Antonyms** Recklessness The board approached the proposal with circumspection because the long-term costs were uncertain. ### Cite Verb To mention as evidence, authority, or an example **Root** cit- (summon/mention) **Synonyms** Reference **Antonyms** Omit The author cites three recent studies in support of the claim. ### Clandestine Adj. Kept secret, especially because it is unauthorized **Root** clandestin- (secret) **Synonyms** Covert **Antonyms** Open The group held clandestine meetings to avoid detection. ### Coalesce Verb To come together and form one whole **Root** coal-/alesc- (grow together) **Synonyms** Merge **Antonyms** Separate Several small organizations coalesced into a single national coalition. ### Colloquialism Noun An informal word or expression used in ordinary conversation **Root** loqu- (speak) **Synonyms** Informalism **Antonyms** Formalism The translator preserved the character's colloquialisms to maintain a conversational tone. ### Commend Verb To praise formally or strongly **Root** commend- (entrust/praise) **Synonyms** Praise **Antonyms** Criticize Reviewers commended the study for its transparent methodology. ### Complacent Adj. Too satisfied with oneself or a situation to recognize danger or need for change **Root** plac- (please) **Synonyms** Self-satisfied **Antonyms** Vigilant Early success made the company complacent about emerging competitors. ### Complicate Verb To make something more difficult, complex, or confusing **Root** plic- (fold) **Synonyms** Confound **Antonyms** Simplify A second variable complicates the interpretation of the results. ### Conflate Verb To combine things that should remain distinct **Root** flat-/flar- (blend) **Synonyms** Merge **Antonyms** Distinguish The argument conflates correlation with causation. ### Confounded Adj. Confused or perplexed; also disproved or defeated in expectation **Root** fund- (confuse) **Synonyms** Bewildered **Antonyms** Clear Researchers were confounded by the unexpected pattern in the data. ### Conjecture Noun/Verb A conclusion or guess based on incomplete evidence; to make such a guess **Root** ject- (throw) **Synonyms** Speculation **Antonyms** Certainty Without additional records, any claim about the author's intent remains conjecture. ### Consensus Noun General agreement among members of a group **Root** sens- (feel/agree) **Synonyms** Agreement **Antonyms** Dissent The panel reached a consensus after reviewing the evidence. ### Consonant Adj. In agreement or harmony with **Root** son- (sound together) **Synonyms** Consistent **Antonyms** Incompatible The new interpretation is consonant with the surviving archival evidence. ### Conspicuous Adj. Easily noticed or attracting attention **Root** spic-/spec- (look) **Synonyms** Noticeable **Antonyms** Inconspicuous A conspicuous gap in the timeline raised questions about the account. ### Contentious Adj. Likely to cause disagreement or argument **Root** tend-/tent- (strive) **Synonyms** Controversial **Antonyms** Harmonious The committee postponed a vote on the most contentious proposal. ### Continuity Noun Uninterrupted connection, sequence, or consistency **Root** continu- (unbroken) **Synonyms** Consistency **Antonyms** Disruption The repeated imagery creates continuity across the novel's separate sections. ### Contrivance Noun Something deliberately devised, especially in an artificial or clever way **Root** triv-/contriv- (devise) **Synonyms** Device **Antonyms** Spontaneity The sudden coincidence felt like a narrative contrivance rather than a natural development. ### Contrived Adj. Artificially created rather than natural or spontaneous **Root** contriv- (devise) **Synonyms** Artificial **Antonyms** Natural The dialogue sounded contrived because no one would normally speak that way. ### Convene Verb To come together or call people together for a meeting **Root** ven- (come) **Synonyms** Assemble **Antonyms** Disperse The committee will convene next week to review the proposal. ### Convergence Noun The process of coming together or becoming more similar **Root** verg- (turn) **Synonyms** Merging **Antonyms** Divergence The study documents a gradual convergence in the two regions' economic patterns. ### Corollary Noun A proposition or result that follows naturally from another **Root** coroll- (following result) **Synonyms** Consequence **Antonyms** Premise A corollary of the theory is that demand should decline as the price rises. ### Corroborate Verb To confirm or strengthen a claim with additional evidence **Root** robor- (strength) **Synonyms** Confirm **Antonyms** Contradict Independent records corroborate the witness's account. ### Counterfactual Adj./Noun Relating to what did not happen but could be imagined as an alternative **Root** counter- + fact- (against fact) **Synonyms** Hypothetical **Antonyms** Factual The historian considers a counterfactual scenario in which the treaty was never signed. ### Counterintuitive Adj. Contrary to what one would naturally expect **Root** counter- + intuit- (against instinct) **Synonyms** Unexpected **Antonyms** Obvious The price increase had the counterintuitive effect of increasing demand. ### Credible Adj. Believable and worthy of trust **Root** cred- (believe) **Synonyms** Plausible **Antonyms** Implausible The claim became more credible after independent researchers reproduced the result. ### Cryptic Adj. Mysterious, obscure, or difficult to interpret **Root** crypt- (hidden) **Synonyms** Enigmatic **Antonyms** Explicit The note was so cryptic that scholars disagreed about its meaning. ### Culled Verb Selected or gathered from a larger group **Root** cull- (select) **Synonyms** Selected **Antonyms** Included indiscriminately The examples were culled from hundreds of archived letters. ### Cursory Adj. Done quickly and without close attention **Root** curs- (run) **Synonyms** Superficial **Antonyms** Thorough A cursory inspection failed to reveal the flaw. ## D [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Dearth Noun A scarcity or lack of something **Root** dearth- (scarcity) **Synonyms** Shortage **Antonyms** Abundance A dearth of reliable records makes the period difficult to study. ### Decisive Adj. Settling an issue or producing a clear result **Root** cis- (cut/decide) **Synonyms** Conclusive **Antonyms** Indecisive The final experiment provided decisive evidence against the older model. ### Decouple Verb To separate things that were previously connected **Root** couple- (pair) **Synonyms** Separate **Antonyms** Link The policy attempts to decouple economic growth from increased emissions. ### Decry Verb To publicly condemn or criticize strongly **Root** cry- (call out) **Synonyms** Denounce **Antonyms** Praise Critics decried the proposal as unnecessarily restrictive. ### Defer Verb To postpone or to yield respectfully to another's judgment **Root** fer- (carry) **Synonyms** Postpone **Antonyms** Advance The board chose to defer the decision until more evidence was available. ### Denote Verb To indicate, signify, or stand for **Root** not- (mark) **Synonyms** Signify **Antonyms** Obscure In the chart, darker shading denotes higher population density. ### Desultory Adj. Lacking a clear plan, purpose, or sustained effort **Root** salt-/sult- (leap) **Synonyms** Aimless **Antonyms** Systematic The discussion became desultory once the group lost sight of its central question. ### Deterrent Noun/Adj. Something that discourages an action; serving to discourage **Root** terr- (frighten) **Synonyms** Discouragement **Antonyms** Incentive The high cost may act as a deterrent to participation. ### Detractor Noun A person who criticizes or disparages someone or something **Root** tract- (draw away) **Synonyms** Critic **Antonyms** Supporter Even the policy's strongest detractors acknowledged that it addressed a real problem. ### Detrimental Adj. Causing harm or damage **Root** detriment- (loss/harm) **Synonyms** Harmful **Antonyms** Beneficial Excessive heat can be detrimental to seed development. ### Diffusion Noun The spreading of something from an area of greater concentration to a wider area **Root** fus- (pour) **Synonyms** Spread **Antonyms** Concentration The paper traces the diffusion of the technology across neighboring regions. ### Diminution Noun A reduction in size, importance, or intensity **Root** min- (small) **Synonyms** Decrease **Antonyms** Increase The reform produced a gradual diminution in administrative costs. ### Diminutive Adj. Very small; also a form indicating smallness **Root** min- (small) **Synonyms** Tiny **Antonyms** Large The diminutive device was designed to fit inside a narrow cavity. ### Discerning Adj. Showing good judgment and an ability to notice subtle differences **Root** cern- (separate/distinguish) **Synonyms** Perceptive **Antonyms** Undiscriminating A discerning reader will notice the shift in tone near the end of the passage. ### Discrepancy Noun A difference or inconsistency between things that should agree **Root** crep- (differ) **Synonyms** Inconsistency **Antonyms** Agreement The auditors investigated a discrepancy between the two sets of figures. ### Discretion Noun Careful judgment; freedom to decide how to act **Root** cret- (separate/decide) **Synonyms** Judgment **Antonyms** Indiscretion The statute gives judges some discretion in determining the penalty. ### Disingenuous Adj. Not candid or sincere; pretending to know less than one does **Root** gener-/gen- (honest/noble, by usage) **Synonyms** Insincere **Antonyms** Candid The claim that no one foresaw the problem struck reviewers as disingenuous. ### Dispassionate Adj. Not influenced by strong emotion; impartial **Root** passion- (emotion) **Synonyms** Impartial **Antonyms** Emotional The panel sought a dispassionate assessment of the competing proposals. ### Dispersed Adj./Verb Spread over a wide area; scattered **Root** spers- (scatter) **Synonyms** Scattered **Antonyms** Concentrated The population is dispersed across dozens of small settlements. ### Disquieting Adj. Causing worry, unease, or anxiety **Root** quiet- (calm) **Synonyms** Unsettling **Antonyms** Reassuring The sudden decline in nesting sites was a disquieting sign. ### Dissonance Noun Lack of harmony or agreement; a clash between ideas, sounds, or beliefs **Root** son- (sound) **Synonyms** Discord **Antonyms** Harmony The essay explores the dissonance between the policy's stated goals and its actual effects. ### Distort Verb To twist out of the true meaning, shape, or proportion **Root** tort- (twist) **Synonyms** Misrepresent **Antonyms** Clarify A selective quotation can distort an author's original argument. ### Dogmatic Adj. Asserting beliefs as unquestionably true and resisting alternatives **Root** dogmat- (doctrine) **Synonyms** Rigid **Antonyms** Open-minded The critic rejected the theory's dogmatic insistence on a single explanation. ### Durability Noun The ability to withstand wear, pressure, or damage over time **Root** dur- (last) **Synonyms** Endurance **Antonyms** Fragility Engineers tested the material's durability under repeated stress. ### Dwindling Adj. Gradually becoming smaller or fewer **Root** dwindl- (shrink) **Synonyms** Declining **Antonyms** Growing The species survives in a dwindling number of habitats. ## E [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Eclipse Verb/Noun To overshadow or surpass; an obscuring of one body by another **Root** eclips- (leave out/obscure) **Synonyms** Overshadow **Antonyms** Highlight The later discovery eclipsed the earlier finding in public attention. ### Efface Verb To erase, remove, or make less noticeable **Root** fac- (face) **Synonyms** Erase **Antonyms** Preserve Weathering had effaced much of the inscription from the stone. ### Efficacy Noun The ability to produce the intended result **Root** fac- (do/make) **Synonyms** Effectiveness **Antonyms** Ineffectiveness The trial was designed to measure the treatment's efficacy. ### Elicit Verb To draw out or bring forth a response or information **Root** lic-/licit- (draw out) **Synonyms** Evoke **Antonyms** Suppress The interview questions were designed to elicit detailed responses. ### Elide Verb To omit, suppress, or pass over something **Root** lid-/laed- (strike out) **Synonyms** Omit **Antonyms** Include The summary elides several qualifications that are central to the original argument. ### Emanate Verb To come or flow out from a source **Root** man- (flow) **Synonyms** Radiate **Antonyms** Converge A faint odor appeared to emanate from the damaged container. ### Embellished Adj./Verb Decorated with extra details; made more elaborate, sometimes by exaggeration **Root** bell- (beautify) **Synonyms** Ornamented **Antonyms** Plain The later account was embellished with dramatic details absent from earlier records. ### Emblematic Adj. Serving as a symbol or typical example of something **Root** emblem- (symbol) **Synonyms** Symbolic **Antonyms** Unrepresentative The building became emblematic of the city's industrial transformation. ### Emergence Noun The process of coming into existence or becoming visible **Root** merg- (rise from) **Synonyms** Appearance **Antonyms** Disappearance The study traces the emergence of a new literary form. ### Emissary Noun A person sent on a special mission, especially as a representative **Root** miss- (send) **Synonyms** Envoy **Antonyms** Recipient The ruler sent an emissary to negotiate a temporary peace. ### Emulate Verb To imitate with the aim of matching or surpassing **Root** emul- (rival) **Synonyms** Imitate **Antonyms** Differ Younger architects sought to emulate the simplicity of the earlier design. ### Encompass Verb To include or surround a wide range of things **Root** camp-/compass- (circle) **Synonyms** Include **Antonyms** Exclude The review encompasses research from biology, economics, and psychology. ### Endearing Adj. Inspiring affection or warm regard **Root** dear- (beloved) **Synonyms** Charming **Antonyms** Off-putting Her willingness to admit mistakes made the narrator surprisingly endearing. ### Engender Verb To cause or give rise to a feeling, condition, or situation **Root** gen- (produce) **Synonyms** Generate **Antonyms** Prevent The policy change may engender greater trust in the institution. ### Entanglement Noun A complicated involvement or condition of being intertwined **Root** tang- (touch) **Synonyms** Complication **Antonyms** Separation The novel portrays the political entanglement of several powerful families. ### Entice Verb To attract or tempt by offering something appealing **Root** entic- (lure) **Synonyms** Lure **Antonyms** Repel The lower fees were intended to entice more applicants. ### Enumerate Verb To list or count items one by one **Root** numer- (number) **Synonyms** List **Antonyms** Generalize The report enumerates five factors that contributed to the decline. ### Epitomize Verb To represent the perfect or most typical example of something **Root** epitom- (summary/example) **Synonyms** Exemplify **Antonyms** Contradict The compact design came to epitomize the company's emphasis on efficiency. ### Equivocal Adj. Open to more than one interpretation; deliberately ambiguous **Root** equi- + voc- (equal + voice) **Synonyms** Ambiguous **Antonyms** Unequivocal The witness gave an equivocal response that neither confirmed nor denied the allegation. ### Eschew Verb To deliberately avoid or refrain from **Root** eschiv- (avoid) **Synonyms** Avoid **Antonyms** Embrace The author eschews technical jargon in favor of direct language. ### Esoteric Adj. Intended for or understood by a small group with specialized knowledge **Root** esoter- (inner) **Synonyms** Arcane **Antonyms** Accessible The article explains an esoteric debate in terms a general reader can follow. ### Evince Verb To show or reveal clearly **Root** vinc-/vin- (show/conquer, by usage) **Synonyms** Display **Antonyms** Conceal The letters evince a growing concern about the project's cost. ### Exacerbate Verb To make a problem or negative condition worse **Root** acerb- (harsh) **Synonyms** Aggravate **Antonyms** Alleviate Drought conditions could exacerbate the region's water shortage. ### Excise Verb To cut out or remove **Root** cis- (cut) **Synonyms** Remove **Antonyms** Insert The editor excised several repetitive paragraphs from the final draft. ### Exhaustive Adj. Thorough and complete, considering all relevant elements **Root** haust- (draw out) **Synonyms** Comprehensive **Antonyms** Partial The team conducted an exhaustive review of the surviving records. ### Exorbitant Adj. Unreasonably or excessively high **Root** orbit- (track/bound) **Synonyms** Excessive **Antonyms** Reasonable The exorbitant cost prevented many small schools from adopting the technology. ### Expansive Adj. Covering a wide area or range; broad in scope **Root** pand- (spread) **Synonyms** Broad **Antonyms** Narrow The book offers an expansive account of the movement's international influence. ### Expedite Verb To make a process happen more quickly or efficiently **Root** ped- (foot) **Synonyms** Accelerate **Antonyms** Delay The agency simplified the application to expedite emergency funding. ### Exploit Verb To make full use of a resource or opportunity, sometimes unfairly **Root** ploit-/plic- (unfold/use) **Synonyms** Utilize **Antonyms** Neglect The researchers exploited a rare archive to test the hypothesis. ### Expound Verb To explain or present an idea in detail **Root** pon-/pound- (put forth) **Synonyms** Explain **Antonyms** Obscure The lecturer expounded on the theory before presenting the evidence. ### Extemporaneous Adj. Spoken or done with little or no advance preparation **Root** tempor- (time) **Synonyms** Impromptu **Antonyms** Rehearsed Her extemporaneous remarks were clearer than the prepared statement. ### Extensibility Noun The capacity to be extended, expanded, or adapted **Root** tens- (stretch) **Synonyms** Expandability **Antonyms** Rigidity The software's extensibility allows new tools to be added without redesigning the core system. ### Extol Verb To praise highly and enthusiastically **Root** tol-/toll- (raise) **Synonyms** Praise **Antonyms** Denounce Reviewers extolled the novel's precise and economical prose. ### Extraneous Adj. Irrelevant or unrelated to the matter being considered; unnecessary **Root** extra- (outside) **Synonyms** Irrelevant **Antonyms** Pertinent The editor removed extraneous details that distracted from the main claim. ### Extrapolate Verb To infer or estimate beyond known data using an observed pattern **Root** pol-/lat- (extend beyond) **Synonyms** Project **Antonyms** Observe directly Researchers cautioned against extrapolating the results to populations not included in the study. ## F [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Feasible Adj. Possible and practical to accomplish **Root** fac- (do/make) **Synonyms** Practicable **Antonyms** Impossible The engineers concluded that the proposed redesign was technically feasible. ### Fecund Adj. Fertile or highly productive, especially in producing ideas or offspring **Root** fecund- (fruitful) **Synonyms** Prolific **Antonyms** Barren The period was unusually fecund, producing several influential artistic movements. ### Foment Verb To stir up or encourage the development of conflict, unrest, or a condition **Root** foment- (warm) **Synonyms** Incite **Antonyms** Quell The inflammatory pamphlets helped foment public unrest. ### Foreground Verb/Noun To emphasize or make prominent; the part of a scene nearest the viewer **Root** fore- + ground **Synonyms** Highlight **Antonyms** Background The essay foregrounds economic causes rather than political personalities. ### Foresight Noun The ability to anticipate what may happen and plan accordingly **Root** fore- + sight **Synonyms** Prudence **Antonyms** Shortsightedness The city's investment showed considerable foresight as demand later increased. ### Forestall Verb To prevent or delay something by acting in advance **Root** fore- + stall **Synonyms** Preempt **Antonyms** Permit Officials introduced temporary measures to forestall a larger crisis. ### Forsake Verb To abandon or give up something valued or previously followed **Root** forsak- (abandon) **Synonyms** Abandon **Antonyms** Retain The movement refused to forsake its core principles for short-term popularity. ### Foster Verb To encourage or promote the development of something **Root** foster- (nurture) **Synonyms** Encourage **Antonyms** Stifle The program was designed to foster collaboration among researchers. ### Fraudulent Adj. Intended to deceive, especially for unlawful gain **Root** fraud- (deceit) **Synonyms** Deceptive **Antonyms** Legitimate Auditors identified several fraudulent transactions in the account. ## G [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Grudgingly Adverb In a reluctant or resentful manner **Root** grudge- (resent) **Synonyms** Reluctantly **Antonyms** Willingly Even the critic grudgingly acknowledged the strength of the new evidence. ## H [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Habituate Verb To make accustomed to something through repeated exposure **Root** habit- (custom) **Synonyms** Accustom **Antonyms** Sensitize Repeated exposure can habituate animals to the presence of researchers. ### Hallmark Noun A distinctive feature or characteristic **Root** hallmark- (quality mark) **Synonyms** Signature **Antonyms** Anomaly Careful documentation is a hallmark of rigorous research. ### Halt Verb/Noun To stop; a stop or interruption **Root** halt- (stop) **Synonyms** Cease **Antonyms** Continue The discovery forced the excavation to halt while experts assessed the site. ### Halting Adj. Slow, hesitant, or interrupted in movement or speech **Root** halt- (stop) **Synonyms** Hesitant **Antonyms** Fluent The witness gave a halting account of the event. ### Hamper Verb To hinder or obstruct progress **Root** hamper- (restrain) **Synonyms** Impede **Antonyms** Facilitate Limited access to records hampered the investigation. ### Harbinger Noun A sign or person that indicates the approach of something **Root** harbinger- (forerunner) **Synonyms** Forerunner **Antonyms** Aftermath The early decline in rainfall may be a harbinger of more severe drought. ### Heterogeneous Adj. Made up of parts that differ in kind or character **Root** hetero- + gen- (different + kind) **Synonyms** Diverse **Antonyms** Homogeneous The sample was heterogeneous, containing participants from many backgrounds. ### Hypothesize Verb To propose a tentative explanation that can be tested **Root** hypo- + thes- (under + place) **Synonyms** Theorize **Antonyms** Verify The researchers hypothesized that temperature affected migration timing. ## I [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Iconoclasm Noun The rejection or challenging of established beliefs, traditions, or institutions **Root** icon- + clas- (image + break) **Synonyms** Nonconformity **Antonyms** Orthodoxy The artist's iconoclasm unsettled critics who favored traditional forms. ### Idiosyncratic Adj. Peculiar or distinctive to an individual or thing **Root** idio- (one's own) **Synonyms** Distinctive **Antonyms** Conventional The composer developed an idiosyncratic style that was difficult to imitate. ### Idle Adj./Verb Inactive or not in use; to spend time without productive activity **Root** idl- (inactive) **Synonyms** Inactive **Antonyms** Busy The machinery remained idle during the inspection. ### Illusory Adj. Based on an illusion; appearing real but not actually so **Root** illus- (deceive/play upon) **Synonyms** Deceptive **Antonyms** Real The apparent agreement between the studies proved illusory after closer analysis. ### Imbue Verb To fill or inspire with a quality, feeling, or idea **Root** imbu- (soak) **Synonyms** Infuse **Antonyms** Drain The narrator imbues the ordinary setting with a sense of mystery. ### Immoderate Adj. Excessive or beyond reasonable limits **Root** moder- (measure) **Synonyms** Excessive **Antonyms** Moderate The critic objected to the article's immoderate claims. ### Imperative Adj./Noun Absolutely necessary or vitally important; an urgent command **Root** imper- (command) **Synonyms** Essential **Antonyms** Optional It is imperative that the samples remain uncontaminated. ### Imperious Adj. Arrogantly commanding or domineering **Root** imper- (command) **Synonyms** Domineering **Antonyms** Humble The official's imperious manner discouraged open discussion. ### Imposing Adj. Impressive because of size, dignity, or appearance **Root** pos- (place) **Synonyms** Impressive **Antonyms** Unimpressive The museum's imposing entrance was designed to convey civic importance. ### Impugn Verb To challenge as false or call into question someone's honesty or motives **Root** pugn- (fight) **Synonyms** Challenge **Antonyms** Defend The attorney attempted to impugn the witness's credibility. ### Inane Adj. Lacking sense, meaning, or substance; silly **Root** inan- (empty) **Synonyms** Senseless **Antonyms** Meaningful The reviewer dismissed the slogan as inane. ### Inaugurate Verb To formally begin or introduce something **Root** augur- (consecrate/begin) **Synonyms** Initiate **Antonyms** Terminate The university inaugurated a new research center in the spring. ### Incentive Noun Something that motivates or encourages a person to act **Root** cent-/cend- (set in motion) **Synonyms** Motivation **Antonyms** Deterrent The grant provides an incentive for institutions to share their data. ### Incongruous Adj. Out of place or not in harmony with its surroundings **Root** congru- (agree/fit) **Synonyms** Incompatible **Antonyms** Congruous The modern logo looked incongruous on the restored nineteenth-century facade. ### Incredulity Noun The state of being unwilling or unable to believe something **Root** cred- (believe) **Synonyms** Disbelief **Antonyms** Belief The audience reacted with incredulity to the unsupported claim. ### Incremental Adj. Occurring through a series of small additions or changes **Root** cresc-/crement- (grow) **Synonyms** Gradual **Antonyms** Sudden The policy produced incremental improvements rather than an immediate transformation. ### Indecipherable Adj. Impossible or extremely difficult to read or understand **Root** cipher- (code) **Synonyms** Illegible **Antonyms** Readable Water damage left several pages of the manuscript indecipherable. ### Index Noun/Verb An indicator or measure; a list or system for locating information **Root** dic-/index- (point out) **Synonyms** Indicator **Antonyms** Concealment The researchers used pollen diversity as an index of ecosystem health. ### Indigenous Adj. Originating or occurring naturally in a particular place; native **Root** gen- (birth/origin) **Synonyms** Native **Antonyms** Introduced The project documents plants indigenous to the island. ### Indoctrinate Verb To teach someone to accept beliefs uncritically **Root** doctrin- (teaching) **Synonyms** Condition **Antonyms** Educate critically The author warns that education should inform rather than indoctrinate. ### Indolence Noun Habitual laziness or avoidance of activity **Root** dol-/indol- (inactive) **Synonyms** Laziness **Antonyms** Diligence The essay criticizes the ruler's indolence during the crisis. ### Induce Verb To cause, bring about, or persuade someone to do something **Root** duc- (lead) **Synonyms** Cause **Antonyms** Prevent The treatment may induce a temporary change in blood pressure. ### Inertia Noun Resistance to change in motion or, figuratively, to change in behavior **Root** iner- (inactive) **Synonyms** Stasis **Antonyms** Momentum Institutional inertia slowed adoption of the new policy. ### Inestimable Adj. Too great to be calculated or fully appreciated **Root** estim- (value) **Synonyms** Incalculable **Antonyms** Negligible The archive is of inestimable value to historians. ### Inherent Adj. Existing as a natural or essential part of something **Root** her- (stick) **Synonyms** Intrinsic **Antonyms** External Some uncertainty is inherent in any long-term forecast. ### Inimical Adj. Hostile to or harmful to something **Root** inimic- (enemy) **Synonyms** Hostile **Antonyms** Favorable The prolonged heat was inimical to the species' survival. ### Insurmountable Adj. Too great or difficult to be overcome **Root** mount- (rise) **Synonyms** Overwhelming **Antonyms** Surmountable The obstacles were serious but not insurmountable. ### Intercede Verb To intervene on behalf of another person or cause **Root** ced- (go between) **Synonyms** Intervene **Antonyms** Withdraw A mediator interceded before the dispute escalated. ### Intermingle Verb To mix or blend together **Root** inter- + mingle **Synonyms** Mix **Antonyms** Separate Historical fact and legend intermingle throughout the narrative. ### Intransigent Adj. Unwilling to change one's views or agree to compromise **Root** transig- (come to agreement) **Synonyms** Unyielding **Antonyms** Flexible Negotiations stalled because both sides remained intransigent. ### Inure Verb To accustom someone to something unpleasant so that it becomes easier to endure **Root** ur-/inur- (harden by use) **Synonyms** Accustom **Antonyms** Sensitize Years of fieldwork had inured the team to harsh weather. ### Invariable Adj. Not changing; consistent and fixed **Root** vari- (change) **Synonyms** Constant **Antonyms** Variable The ritual followed an invariable sequence each year. ### Invoke Verb To cite, appeal to, or call upon something as authority or support **Root** voc- (call) **Synonyms** Appeal to **Antonyms** Disregard The attorney invoked a prior ruling to support the argument. ### Irrefutable Adj. Impossible to deny or disprove **Root** refut- (disprove) **Synonyms** Conclusive **Antonyms** Disputable The newly discovered records provided irrefutable evidence of the transaction. ### Irrespective Adj./Adverb Without regard to; regardless of **Root** respect- (look back/consider) **Synonyms** Regardless **Antonyms** Dependent on All applicants are evaluated by the same criteria irrespective of school size. ### Itemize Verb To list individual items separately **Root** item- (particular) **Synonyms** Enumerate **Antonyms** Summarize The invoice itemizes each service and its cost. ## L [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Lambaste Verb To criticize very harshly **Root** lambast- (beat/criticize) **Synonyms** Denounce **Antonyms** Praise Reviewers lambasted the report for ignoring contradictory evidence. ### Latitude Noun Freedom or scope to act, think, or vary; also angular distance north or south **Root** lat- (broad) **Synonyms** Leeway **Antonyms** Restriction The guidelines give instructors considerable latitude in choosing examples. ## M [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Magnify Verb To make something appear larger or more important; to increase **Root** magn- (great) **Synonyms** Enlarge **Antonyms** Reduce The lens magnifies details that are invisible to the unaided eye. ### Malign Verb/Adj. To speak harmful falsehoods about; harmful or evil in character **Root** mal- (bad) **Synonyms** Slander **Antonyms** Praise The article unfairly maligned researchers whose conclusions it misunderstood. ### Manifest Adj./Verb Clear or obvious; to show or display plainly **Root** manu- + fest- (hand + make evident) **Synonyms** Evident **Antonyms** Hidden The effects of the policy became manifest within a few months. ### Maudlin Adj. Overly sentimental or tearfully emotional **Root** Magdalene (sentimental association) **Synonyms** Sentimental **Antonyms** Unsentimental The critic found the final scene maudlin rather than moving. ### Misconstrue Verb To interpret something incorrectly **Root** mis- + constru- (wrongly + build/interpret) **Synonyms** Misinterpret **Antonyms** Understand Readers should not misconstrue the cautious conclusion as a rejection of the entire theory. ### Modesty Noun The quality of being unassuming about one's abilities or achievements **Root** modest- (measured) **Synonyms** Humility **Antonyms** Arrogance Despite her major discovery, the scientist spoke about it with characteristic modesty. ### Modulate Verb To adjust or regulate the degree, intensity, or frequency of something **Root** modul- (measure) **Synonyms** Regulate **Antonyms** Intensify The device automatically modulates its output as conditions change. ### Monetizing Verb Converting an asset, activity, or resource into a source of revenue **Root** monet- (money) **Synonyms** Commercializing **Antonyms** Giving away The company began monetizing the platform through subscription fees. ### Multifariousness Noun The quality of having many varied forms, elements, or aspects **Root** multi- + fari- (many + varied) **Synonyms** Diversity **Antonyms** Uniformity The multifariousness of the archive makes simple classification difficult. ### Mutable Adj. Liable or able to change **Root** mut- (change) **Synonyms** Changeable **Antonyms** Immutable The coastline is a mutable landscape shaped by tides and storms. ### Myriad Adj./Noun Countless or extremely numerous; a very large number **Root** myriad- (ten thousand) **Synonyms** Countless **Antonyms** Few The ecosystem supports a myriad of small organisms. ## N [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Neutral Adj. Not supporting either side; without strong positive or negative character **Root** neutr- (neither) **Synonyms** Impartial **Antonyms** Biased The moderator remained neutral throughout the debate. ### Nominal Adj. Existing in name only; very small or token in amount **Root** nomin- (name) **Synonyms** Token **Antonyms** Substantial The membership fee is nominal and covers only basic administrative costs. ### Nonchalance Noun Calm lack of concern or apparent indifference **Root** non- + chal- (not heated) **Synonyms** Indifference **Antonyms** Anxiety His nonchalance during the emergency surprised the rest of the team. ### Notional Adj. Existing mainly as an idea or concept rather than as something concrete **Root** not- (idea/knowledge) **Synonyms** Conceptual **Antonyms** Actual The budget included a notional amount for expenses that had not yet been incurred. ### Novelty Noun The quality of being new, unusual, or original **Root** nov- (new) **Synonyms** Originality **Antonyms** Familiarity The device attracted attention because of its novelty rather than its practical value. ## O [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Oblique Adj. Indirect, not straightforward, or slanting **Root** obliqu- (slant) **Synonyms** Indirect **Antonyms** Direct The essay makes only an oblique reference to the controversy. ### Obtrusive Adj. Noticeable in an unwelcome or intrusive way **Root** trud-/trus- (push) **Synonyms** Intrusive **Antonyms** Unobtrusive The large watermark was obtrusive and distracted from the image. ### Occluded Adj./Verb Blocked, closed off, or concealed from view **Root** clud- (close) **Synonyms** Blocked **Antonyms** Open Dense clouds occluded the mountain from view. ### Opaque Adj. Not transparent; difficult to understand or interpret **Root** opac- (dark) **Synonyms** Obscure **Antonyms** Transparent The committee's opaque explanation raised more questions than it answered. ### Orthodox Adj. Conforming to established or traditional beliefs or practices **Root** ortho- + dox- (correct + belief) **Synonyms** Conventional **Antonyms** Heterodox The scholar challenged the orthodox interpretation of the poem. ### Outmoded Adj. No longer fashionable, useful, or appropriate **Root** mode- (fashion/method) **Synonyms** Obsolete **Antonyms** Current The report argues that the old classification system is outmoded. ### Outspoken Adj. Frank and direct in expressing opinions **Root** speak- (express) **Synonyms** Forthright **Antonyms** Reserved She became an outspoken critic of the policy. ### Overshadow Verb To make something seem less important, impressive, or noticeable **Root** over- + shadow **Synonyms** Eclipse **Antonyms** Highlight The controversy overshadowed the study's more important findings. ## P [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Partition Noun/Verb A division into parts; to divide into separate sections **Root** part- (divide) **Synonyms** Division **Antonyms** Union The treaty partitioned the territory into several administrative regions. ### Perceptible Adj. Able to be noticed or detected **Root** cept-/cepti- (take/perceive) **Synonyms** Noticeable **Antonyms** Imperceptible There was a perceptible shift in tone after the new evidence was introduced. ### Permeability Noun The degree to which a substance allows liquids or gases to pass through **Root** me- / perme- (pass through) **Synonyms** Porosity **Antonyms** Impermeability Soil permeability affects how quickly water reaches the roots. ### Pernicious Adj. Having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way **Root** nec-/nic- (harm) **Synonyms** Harmful **Antonyms** Beneficial The author describes misinformation as a pernicious influence on public trust. ### Pertinent Adj. Directly relevant to the matter being considered **Root** ten-/tin- (hold/relate) **Synonyms** Relevant **Antonyms** Irrelevant The judge allowed only evidence pertinent to the specific charge. ### Perturbation Noun A disturbance or small change that alters a system **Root** turb- (disturb) **Synonyms** Disturbance **Antonyms** Stability A slight perturbation in temperature changed the reaction rate. ### Pervade Verb To spread throughout every part of something **Root** vad- (go) **Synonyms** Permeate **Antonyms** Avoid A sense of uncertainty pervades the final chapters of the novel. ### Placate Verb To calm or satisfy someone who is angry or dissatisfied **Root** plac- (please) **Synonyms** Appease **Antonyms** Provoke The company offered refunds to placate frustrated customers. ### Polity Noun An organized political community or form of government **Root** polit- (citizen/state) **Synonyms** State **Antonyms** Anarchy The reform altered the relationship between local institutions and the wider polity. ### Portend Verb To indicate that something important or unpleasant is likely to happen **Root** tend-/tent- (stretch forward) **Synonyms** Foreshadow **Antonyms** Reassure The sudden decline in pollinators may portend broader ecological problems. ### Precarious Adj. Not securely held or established; dangerously uncertain **Root** prec- (entreat/uncertain) **Synonyms** Unstable **Antonyms** Secure The species survives in a precarious habitat threatened by development. ### Precede Verb To come before something in time, order, or position **Root** ced- (go) **Synonyms** Antecede **Antonyms** Follow A brief introduction precedes each chapter. ### Precipitation Noun Water that falls from the atmosphere as rain, snow, sleet, or hail **Root** cipit-/capit- (fall headlong) **Synonyms** Rainfall **Antonyms** Aridity Annual precipitation varies greatly across the region. ### Preclude Verb To prevent something from happening or make it impossible **Root** clud- (close) **Synonyms** Prevent **Antonyms** Permit The missing records preclude a definitive conclusion. ### Precursor Noun A person, thing, or event that comes before and signals or leads to another **Root** curs- (run before) **Synonyms** Forerunner **Antonyms** Successor The early device was a precursor to modern digital cameras. ### Predilection Noun A strong preference or liking for something **Root** lect- (choose) **Synonyms** Preference **Antonyms** Aversion The composer had a predilection for unusual rhythmic patterns. ### Predisposition Noun An existing tendency or susceptibility toward a condition or behavior **Root** pos- (place) **Synonyms** Inclination **Antonyms** Resistance Genetic factors may create a predisposition to the disorder. ### Preempt Verb To act before another can, especially to prevent an anticipated event **Root** empt- (take) **Synonyms** Forestall **Antonyms** Allow The agency acted to preempt a shortage by increasing supplies early. ### Preliminary Adj./Noun Coming before the main action or serving as preparation **Root** limin- (threshold) **Synonyms** Introductory **Antonyms** Final Preliminary results suggest that the effect is smaller than expected. ### Premiering Verb Being shown or performed publicly for the first time **Root** prim- (first) **Synonyms** Debuting **Antonyms** Withdrawing The documentary is premiering at the festival next month. ### Pretentious Adj. Attempting to appear more important, sophisticated, or cultured than is justified **Root** tend-/tent- (stretch/claim) **Synonyms** Affected **Antonyms** Unassuming The critic found the essay pretentious because its elaborate language obscured a simple idea. ### Pretext Noun A stated reason used to hide the real reason for an action **Root** text- (weave/pretense) **Synonyms** Excuse **Antonyms** True motive The inspection served as a pretext for closing the facility. ### Primacy Noun The state of being first in importance, rank, or time **Root** prim- (first) **Synonyms** Preeminence **Antonyms** Subordination The article argues for the primacy of direct evidence over speculation. ### Profusion Noun An abundant or excessive quantity of something **Root** fus- (pour) **Synonyms** Abundance **Antonyms** Scarcity The meadow contained a profusion of wildflowers after the rains. ### Protract Verb To prolong or extend in time **Root** tract- (draw) **Synonyms** Prolong **Antonyms** Shorten Further procedural disputes could protract the negotiations for months. ### Provoke Verb To cause a reaction, especially anger, thought, or action **Root** voc-/provoc- (call forth) **Synonyms** Incite **Antonyms** Soothe The unexpected result provoked renewed debate among researchers. ### Proxy Noun A person or thing acting in place of another; an indirect measure used as a substitute **Root** prox- (near/substitute) **Synonyms** Substitute **Antonyms** Principal Tree-ring width can serve as a proxy for past climate conditions. ### Prudent Adj. Showing careful judgment and concern for future consequences **Root** prud- (foresee) **Synonyms** Wise **Antonyms** Reckless Given the uncertainty, the committee took the prudent step of delaying the decision. ## Q [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Quintessential Adj. Representing the most perfect or typical example of a quality or class **Root** quint- + essent- (fifth + essence) **Synonyms** Archetypal **Antonyms** Atypical The small café is a quintessential example of the neighborhood's character. ### Quotidian Adj. Ordinary, everyday, or occurring daily **Root** quotid- (daily) **Synonyms** Mundane **Antonyms** Extraordinary The novelist transforms quotidian routines into moments of significance. ## R [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Recapitulate Verb To summarize or restate the main points **Root** capit- (head/chapter) **Synonyms** Summarize **Antonyms** Elaborate The conclusion recapitulates the study's three central findings. ### Reciprocity Noun Mutual exchange in which each side gives or responds in return **Root** reciproc- (back and forth) **Synonyms** Mutuality **Antonyms** One-sidedness The agreement depends on reciprocity between the two institutions. ### Reconcile Verb To make compatible, restore agreement, or resolve apparent differences **Root** concili- (bring together) **Synonyms** Harmonize **Antonyms** Alienate The new theory attempts to reconcile two seemingly conflicting sets of evidence. ### Rectify Verb To correct something that is wrong or inaccurate **Root** rect- (straight/right) **Synonyms** Correct **Antonyms** Worsen The researchers rectified the coding error before analyzing the data again. ### Redundancy Noun Unnecessary repetition or duplication; a backup element that improves reliability **Root** und-/redund- (overflow) **Synonyms** Duplication **Antonyms** Necessity The editor removed redundancy from the final paragraph. ### Regale Verb To entertain someone with stories, conversation, or lavish attention **Root** regal- (entertain) **Synonyms** Entertain **Antonyms** Bore The historian regaled the audience with stories from the expedition. ### Reiterate Verb To say or do something again, often for emphasis **Root** iter- (again) **Synonyms** Repeat **Antonyms** Retract The report reiterates the need for additional evidence. ### Repertory Noun A stock or collection of works, skills, or items available for use **Root** repert- (find/store) **Synonyms** Repertoire **Antonyms** Scarcity The theater's repertory includes both classical and contemporary plays. ### Reprisal Noun An act of retaliation in response to an injury or offense **Root** pris- (take back) **Synonyms** Retaliation **Antonyms** Forgiveness Officials feared that the sanction would trigger a reprisal. ### Repudiated Verb Formally rejected, denied, or disowned **Root** repudi- (reject) **Synonyms** Rejected **Antonyms** Accepted The organization repudiated the earlier statement after new evidence emerged. ### Resolute Adj. Firmly determined and unwavering **Root** solut-/solv- (loosen/resolve) **Synonyms** Determined **Antonyms** Wavering She remained resolute despite repeated pressure to abandon the project. ### Restitution Noun The restoration of something lost or stolen, or compensation for loss **Root** stitu- (set/restore) **Synonyms** Compensation **Antonyms** Deprivation The settlement required restitution to the communities that had lost the artifacts. ### Retrospect Noun A review or consideration of past events **Root** retro- + spect- (back + look) **Synonyms** Hindsight **Antonyms** Foresight In retrospect, the early warning signs were easier to recognize. ### Rigor Noun Strictness, precision, and thoroughness in thought or method **Root** rig- (stiff/strict) **Synonyms** Precision **Antonyms** Laxity The study was praised for its methodological rigor. ## S [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Sanction Noun/Verb Official permission or approval; also a penalty imposed to enforce a rule **Root** sanct- (make sacred/authorize) **Synonyms** Authorize **Antonyms** Forbid The agency would not sanction the project until safety concerns were addressed. ### Satirize Verb To use humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize **Root** satir- (satire) **Synonyms** Mock **Antonyms** Praise The novel satirizes the social pretensions of the wealthy. ### Scarcely Adverb Barely; only just; hardly **Root** scarce- (few) **Synonyms** Barely **Antonyms** Abundantly The two versions are scarcely distinguishable without close inspection. ### Sentimental Adj. Strongly influenced by tender, nostalgic, or emotional feelings **Root** sent- (feel) **Synonyms** Emotional **Antonyms** Unsentimental The memoir is reflective without becoming overly sentimental. ### Situate Verb To place something in a particular physical, historical, or conceptual context **Root** situ- (place) **Synonyms** Locate **Antonyms** Displace The introduction situates the debate within its broader historical context. ### Sophist Noun A person who uses clever but misleading arguments; historically, a teacher of rhetoric **Root** soph- (wisdom) **Synonyms** Quibbler **Antonyms** Truth-seeker The critic accused the speaker of arguing like a sophist rather than addressing the evidence. ### Sophisticated Adj. Complex, refined, or highly developed **Root** soph- (wisdom) **Synonyms** Advanced **Antonyms** Rudimentary The model uses a sophisticated method to account for missing data. ### Sporadic Adj. Occurring at irregular intervals or in scattered instances **Root** sporad- (scattered) **Synonyms** Intermittent **Antonyms** Continuous Reports of the phenomenon were sporadic rather than consistent. ### Steward Noun/Verb A person who manages or protects something entrusted to their care; to manage responsibly **Root** steward- (manager) **Synonyms** Custodian **Antonyms** Neglector The curator viewed herself as a steward of the collection rather than its owner. ### Stipulate Verb To specify a condition or requirement explicitly **Root** stipul- (condition) **Synonyms** Specify **Antonyms** Leave unspecified The contract stipulates that all data must remain confidential. ### Subdue Verb To bring under control or reduce in intensity **Root** sub- + duc- (under + lead) **Synonyms** Suppress **Antonyms** Intensify The medication helped subdue the inflammatory response. ### Subordinate Adj./Verb Lower in rank or importance; to place in a lower position **Root** ordin- (order/rank) **Synonyms** Secondary **Antonyms** Dominant The author treats economic factors as subordinate to political ones. ### Substantiate Verb To support a claim with evidence or proof **Root** stant- (stand) **Synonyms** Corroborate **Antonyms** Refute The researchers needed additional data to substantiate their conclusion. ### Subsume Verb To include or absorb something within a broader category **Root** sum- (take/include) **Synonyms** Include **Antonyms** Separate The classification subsumes several related species under one larger group. ### Subtlety Noun A fine distinction, delicate quality, or complexity that may be difficult to notice **Root** subtil- (fine) **Synonyms** Nuance **Antonyms** Obviousness The translation preserves the subtlety of the original metaphor. ### Succession Noun A sequence in which one person, thing, or event follows another **Root** ced-/cess- (go) **Synonyms** Sequence **Antonyms** Interruption A succession of storms delayed the expedition. ### Superfluous Adj. More than is needed; unnecessary **Root** flu- (flow) **Synonyms** Unnecessary **Antonyms** Essential The editor removed several superfluous examples from the paragraph. ### Supersede Verb To replace something that is older, less effective, or no longer used **Root** sed- (sit) **Synonyms** Replace **Antonyms** Retain The new standard will supersede the earlier guideline. ### Supplant Verb To take the place of something or someone, often by force or through competition **Root** plant- (place) **Synonyms** Replace **Antonyms** Preserve Digital records gradually supplanted paper files. ### Surmount Verb To overcome a difficulty or rise above an obstacle **Root** mount- (rise) **Synonyms** Overcome **Antonyms** Succumb to The team surmounted several technical obstacles before completing the project. ### Synopsis Noun A brief summary of the main points of a work **Root** syn- + ops- (together + view) **Synonyms** Summary **Antonyms** Full account The proposal begins with a one-page synopsis of the research plan. ### Synthesis Noun The combination of separate ideas or elements into a coherent whole **Root** syn- + thes- (together + put) **Synonyms** Integration **Antonyms** Separation The article offers a synthesis of findings from several disciplines. ## T [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Tantamount Adj. Equivalent in effect, value, or seriousness to something else **Root** tant- (so much) **Synonyms** Equivalent **Antonyms** Different Ignoring the warning would be tantamount to accepting the risk. ### Tentative Adj. Not certain or final; provisional **Root** tent- (try/test) **Synonyms** Provisional **Antonyms** Definitive The researchers offered a tentative explanation pending further study. ### Testament Noun Evidence or proof of a fact, quality, or condition **Root** test- (witness) **Synonyms** Evidence **Antonyms** Refutation The building's survival is a testament to the durability of its design. ### Transpose Verb To change the position or order of two or more things **Root** pos- (place) **Synonyms** Rearrange **Antonyms** Retain The editor accidentally transposed two figures in the table. ### Truncate Verb To shorten by cutting off a part **Root** trunc- (cut off) **Synonyms** Shorten **Antonyms** Extend The display truncates long titles to fit the available space. ## U [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Unambiguous Adj. Clear and having only one reasonable interpretation **Root** ambigu- (uncertain) **Synonyms** Clear **Antonyms** Ambiguous The instructions were unambiguous about the submission deadline. ### Underpinned Verb Supported or formed the basis of something **Root** pin- (support) **Synonyms** Supported **Antonyms** Undermined A large body of evidence underpinned the policy recommendation. ### Unfounded Adj. Not supported by evidence or fact **Root** found- (base) **Synonyms** Baseless **Antonyms** Substantiated The investigation concluded that the allegation was unfounded. ### Universal Adj. Applying to all cases, people, or things within a category **Root** univers- (whole) **Synonyms** General **Antonyms** Limited The pattern is common but not universal across all species. ### Unnerved Adj./Verb Made anxious, unsettled, or less confident **Root** nerve- (courage) **Synonyms** Unsettled **Antonyms** Reassured The unexpected question unnerved the otherwise confident speaker. ### Unsubstantiated Adj. Not supported by evidence or proof **Root** stant- (stand) **Synonyms** Unsupported **Antonyms** Verified The article repeated an unsubstantiated claim from an anonymous source. ### Unsympathetic Adj. Not showing understanding, support, or favorable feeling **Root** path- (feeling) **Synonyms** Uncompassionate **Antonyms** Sympathetic The review was unsympathetic to arguments that lacked evidence. ### Untenable Adj. Unable to be defended, maintained, or justified **Root** ten- (hold) **Synonyms** Indefensible **Antonyms** Defensible Once the contradictory data emerged, the original explanation became untenable. ### Utilitarian Adj. Designed mainly for practical use rather than beauty; relating to utility **Root** util- (use) **Synonyms** Practical **Antonyms** Ornamental The building's utilitarian design prioritized function over decoration. ## V [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Vindictive Adj. Having a strong desire for revenge **Root** vind-/vindic- (avenge/claim) **Synonyms** Vengeful **Antonyms** Forgiving The narrator's vindictive response seems disproportionate to the minor insult. ### Visionary Adj./Noun Showing imaginative foresight; a person with original ideas about the future **Root** vis- (see) **Synonyms** Far-sighted **Antonyms** Shortsighted The proposal was visionary in anticipating technologies that did not yet exist. ## W [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Wrought Adj./Verb Worked, shaped, or produced with effort; past form of work in certain uses **Root** work-/wrought- (work) **Synonyms** Fashioned **Antonyms** Unworked The intricate gate was wrought from iron by local artisans. ## Y [Back to top](https://eliteprep.com/blog/2026/9/14/306-vocabulary-words-you-must-know-for-the-sat-and-act/#top) ### Yield Verb/Noun To produce or provide a result; to give way under pressure **Root** yield- (give/produce) **Synonyms** Produce **Antonyms** Withhold The experiment yielded results consistent with the earlier study. 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