For each word, choose the option with the same meaning.

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What does the adjective abrasive mean?

smooth

soothing

gentle

harsh

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Correct!

Rough, harsh, or unpleasant in nature, often causing friction or discomfort.

When applied to a person's behavior or communication style, it signifies an approach that is characterized by being direct, blunt, and even confrontational, without much consideration for the feelings or sensitivities of others. An abrasive individual might use sharp or abrasive language that can come across as insensitive or offensive to those around them. Similarly, in the context of materials, an abrasive substance is one that can cause wear, erosion, or scraping due to its coarse texture. Overall, the term 'abrasive' points to qualities or interactions that lack a gentle or accommodating approach, leading to potentially negative outcomes or strained relationships.

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Complete ACT 13 (American College Testing) Vocabulary List with Definitions

abrasive

Rough, harsh, or unpleasant in nature, often causing friction or discomfort.

accommodate

To provide or make adjustments to suit the needs, preferences, or requirements of someone or something.

accuse

To charge or blame someone for an offense, wrongdoing, or an act deemed improper or illegal.

aimless

Lacking clear purpose, direction, or intention, often resulting in a sense of wandering, confusion, or ineffectiveness.

ambiguous

Open to multiple interpretations, unclear, or lacking a definite or precise meaning.

ambition

A powerful and driving desire for achievement, success, or recognition.

amputate

To surgically remove a body part, usually a limb or extremity, due to injury, disease, or other medical conditions.

arouse

To awaken, stimulate, or elicit a particular emotional, physical, or mental response in someone or something.

associated

Connected, linked, or related to another thing or concept.

astounded

To be greatly surprised, shocked, or astonished.

asymmetrical

Having a lack of symmetry or balance between the two sides or parts of an object, organism, or structure.

atmospheric

Pertaining to or creating a particular mood, ambiance, or emotional quality, often associated with a specific environment or setting.

attentive

Observant, alert, and fully engaged in paying close attention to a person, task, or situation.

barren

Unproductive and incapable of supporting the growth of plants or vegetation.

bereave

To be deprived or robbed of something or someone that holds great significance or brings immense joy.

circumvent

To avoid or get around something, often by using a clever or indirect approach.

coerce

To use force or intimidation to make someone do something that they are unwilling or resistant to do.

coincidence

The occurrence of two or more events or circumstances that seem to be related or significant, even though they happen by chance and without any apparent causal connection.

collective

Involving or pertaining to a group or a collective body of individuals.

commemorate

O honor, remember, or celebrate an important event, person, or occasion.

conditioned

consignment

console

conspirator

corrugated

countermeasure

curb

decomposition