GRE 10 (Graduate Record Examination) Vocabulary: Synonyms Quiz

bona-fide (adjective) /ˌbəʊnə ˈfʌɪdi/
Meaning: When something is labeled as bona fide, it signifies its true and legitimate nature, indicating that it is exactly as it appears or claims to be.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to bona-fide?
Options: authentic; fake; fraudulent; counterfeit
Answer: authentic
Synonyms: actual; authentic; credible; genuine; honest; incontestable; incontrovertible; indisputable; lawful; legitimate; proper; real
Example: "After thorough examination, the expert confirmed that the painting was a bona fide masterpiece."

confluence (noun) /kɒnfluəns/
Meaning: It signifies the convergence or blending of different elements or forces, resulting in a combined and integrated outcome.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to confluence?
Options: junction; divergence; separation; split
Answer: junction
Synonyms: amalgamation; blending; combination; convergence; fusion; gathering; integration; intersection; junction; meeting; merger; mingling
Example: "The confluence of the two rivers created a breathtaking view."

dearth (noun) /dəːθ/
Meaning: It can also describe a scarcity or deficiency of something.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to dearth?
Options: scarcity; abundance; surplus; plenty
Answer: scarcity
Synonyms: absence; deficiency; deficit; inadequacy; insufficiency; lack; paucity; privation; scantiness; scarcity; shortage; shortfall
Example: "A dearth of food in winter months made wildlife forage in new territories."

endemic (adjective) /ɛnˈdɛmɪk/
Meaning: It is different from an epidemic, which is a sudden outbreak of a disease, and from a pandemic, which is a widespread outbreak of a disease that affects multiple countries or continents.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to endemic?
Options: native; foreign; exotic; imported
Answer: native
Synonyms: common; extensive; indigenous; native; pervasive; prevalent; rife; sweeping; widespread
Example: "Malaria is endemic in certain tropical regions of the world."

espouse (verb) /ɛˈspaʊz/
Meaning: When someone espouses something, they express a strong commitment or endorsement of it, often publicly.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to espouse?
Options: support; oppose; reject; condemn
Answer: support
Synonyms: adopt; advance; advocate; back; champion; defend; embrace; encourage; endorse; favor; maintain; promote
Example: "As an environmentalist, he tends to espouse sustainable living practices."

estrange (verb) /ɪˈstreɪndʒ/
Meaning: When someone estranges, they cause a rift or a breakdown in a previously close or familiar relationship, resulting in a state of emotional or social detachment.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to estrange?
Options: alienate; unite; reconcile; connect
Answer: alienate
Synonyms: alienate; detach; disconnect; disengage; distance; disunite; divide; isolate; separate; sever; split
Example: "Their constant arguments began to estrange them from each other."

extenuating (adjective) /ɪkˈstɛnjʊeɪtɪŋ/
Meaning: Extenuating circumstances refer to circumstances that may make a situation or behavior less serious or severe.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to extenuating?
Options: mitigating; aggravating; intensifying; worsening
Answer: mitigating
Synonyms: atoning; condoning; excusing; explaining; justifying; mitigating; qualifying; rationalizing
Example: "The defendant's extenuating circumstances led to a reduced sentence."

farrago (noun) /fəˈrɑːɡəʊ/
Meaning: It describes a chaotic assortment of things, such as ideas, information, or objects, that are combined in a haphazard or disorderly manner.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to farrago?
Options: mishmash; order; uniformity; homogeneity
Answer: mishmash
Synonyms: assortment; conglomeration; hotchpotch; jumble; medley; mélange; mishmash; pastiche
Example: "His speech was a farrago of rambling and nonsensical statements."

gallantry (noun) /ˈɡaləntri/
Meaning: It is often used to describe the courage and bravery of soldiers or knights, and can also be used to describe actions that are done in a selfless or chivalrous manner, such as defending someone or helping them in a difficult situation.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to gallantry?
Options: bravery; cowardice; timidity; fearfulness
Answer: bravery
Synonyms: boldness; bravery; daring; duty; fearlessness; fortitude; guts; heroism; honor; spirit; valor
Example: "He was awarded the Military Cross for gallantry in the face of the enemy."

gestation (noun) /dʒɛˈsteɪʃn/
Meaning: It is a critical period during which the fertilized egg undergoes a series of transformations and eventually develops into a fully-formed fetus.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to gestation?
Options: pregnancy; infertility; barrenness; sterility
Answer: pregnancy
Synonyms: breeding; fecundation; growth; incubation; maturation; pregnancy; procreation; reproduction
Example: "Premature birth can occur if gestation is interrupted."

glasnost (noun) /ˈɡlaznɒst/
Meaning: The term "glasnost" comes from the Russian word for "openness" or "transparency.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to glasnost?
Options: openness; secrecy; concealment; privacy
Answer: openness
Synonyms: fairness; frankness; honesty; impartiality; openness; outspokenness; sincerity; truthfulness
Example: "The policy of glasnost, or openness, was introduced by Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev in the 1980s."

grandiose (adjective) /ˈɡrandɪəʊs/
Meaning: The word "grandiose" comes from the Latin "grandis," which means "large" or "grand," and it is often used to describe things that are large, grand, or elaborate in nature.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to grandiose?
Options: pretentious; modest; unassuming; simple
Answer: pretentious
Synonyms: flashy; grand; lavish; luxurious; magnificent; majestic; opulent; plush; stately; swanky
Example: "The hotel's grandiose lobby featured towering marble columns and elaborate chandeliers."

haughty (adjective) /ˈhɔːti/
Meaning: When we characterize an individual as haughty, we suggest that they carry themselves with a sense of condescension and look down upon others as if they are inferior.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to haughty?
Options: proud; humble; modest; unassuming
Answer: proud
Synonyms: aloof; arrogant; conceited; condescending; contemptuous; disdainful; egotistical; imperious; lofty; overbearing; patronizing; proud
Example: "Her haughty demeanor made it difficult for others to approach her."

husbandry (noun) /ˈhʌzb(ə)ndri/
Meaning: It is the practice of breeding, feeding, and caring for domestic animals such as cows, pigs, sheep, and chickens, as well as maintaining and cultivating crops and land.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to husbandry?
Options: farming; neglect; misuse; squandering
Answer: farming
Synonyms: agribusiness; agriculture; agronomy; aquaculture; farming; horticulture; ranching; tillage
Example: "Sustainable husbandry practices are vital for preserving our planet's resources."

immutable (adjective) /ɪˈmjuːtəb(ə)l/
Meaning: When a characteristic or quality is described as immutable, it implies that it remains constant and steadfast over time, resisting any attempts at modification or variation.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to immutable?
Options: unchangeable; changeable; variable; mutable
Answer: unchangeable
Synonyms: changeless; constant; enduring; fixed; invariable; perpetual; set; unalterable; unvarying
Example: "He believed that moral principles were immutable and should be followed at all times."

impunity (noun) /ɪmˈpjuːnɪti/
Meaning: It refers to a situation where an individual or a group is not held accountable for their actions, even if they have broken the law or committed a wrong.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to impunity?
Options: exemption; accountability; liability; responsibility
Answer: exemption
Synonyms: absolution; defense; dispensation; immunity; license; protection; security; shield
Example: "The government officials acted with impunity, knowing they would not be held accountable for their actions."

inculcate (verb) /ˈɪnkʌlkeɪt/
Meaning: It implies a deliberate effort to impart knowledge, values, or behaviors, and suggests that the thing in question is important or essential.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to inculcate?
Options: instill; neglect; ignore; overlook
Answer: instill
Synonyms: drill; engrain; foster; imbue; implant; impress; indoctrinate; infuse; inseminate; instigate; instill; nurture
Example: "Teachers work hard to inculcate a love for learning in their students from a young age."

insubordinate (adjective) /ˌɪnsəˈbɔːdɪnət/
Meaning: Insubordinate people are often described as being defiant, disobedient or resistant to authority, whether it's a boss, teacher or anyone else in a position of authority.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to insubordinate?
Options: disobedient; obedient; compliant; submissive
Answer: disobedient
Synonyms: contrary; contumacious; defiant; disobedient; errant; mutinous; obstinate; rebellious; recalcitrant; refractory; troublesome; uncooperative
Example: "His insubordinate attitude toward his boss jeopardized his career."

irony (noun) /ˈaɪ rə ni/
Meaning: Irony can manifest in various forms, such as situational irony, where the outcome is contrary to what is anticipated, or verbal irony, where the intended meaning contradicts the literal interpretation of words.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to irony?
Options: contradiction; straightforwardness; sincerity; frankness
Answer: contradiction
Synonyms: absurdity; contradiction; cynicism; incongruity; mockery; paradox; sarcasm; sardonicism; satire; twist; wryness
Example: "The irony of the situation was palpable as the self-proclaimed expert struggled to solve a basic math problem."

jejune (adjective) /dʒɪˈdʒun/
Meaning: When we characterize something as jejune, we are emphasizing its shallowness and its failure to engage with complex or mature ideas.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to jejune?
Options: simplistic; complex; profound; sophisticated
Answer: simplistic
Synonyms: banal; bland; childish; immature; inane; insipid; juvenile; puerile; unsophisticated
Example: "The new intern's jejune ideas failed to impress the senior management."

largess (noun) /lɑrˈdʒɛs/
Meaning: It denotes a spirit of benevolence, often associated with individuals or institutions providing financial assistance or support to those in need.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to largess?
Options: generosity; stinginess; selfishness; miserliness
Answer: generosity
Synonyms: benevolence; bountifulness; bounty; charity; generosity; kindness; liberality; magnanimity; munificence; philanthropy
Example: "The company's largess funded scholarships for underprivileged students."

lurid (adjective) /ˈl(j)ʊərɪd/
Meaning: When something is characterized as lurid, it often implies an explicit or exaggerated portrayal of events, emotions, or circumstances, typically with the aim of provoking strong reactions, such as shock, disgust, or fascination.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to lurid?
Options: sensational; understated; muted; toned-down
Answer: sensational
Synonyms: explicit; extravagant; gory; graphic; grim; grotesque; gruesome; horrifying; macabre; overdramatized; sensational; sensationalized
Example: "The newspaper article described the crime scene in lurid detail."

malevolent (adjective) /məˈlɛv ə lənt/
Meaning: It can also refer to something that is harmful or evil in nature.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to malevolent?
Options: malicious; benevolent; kind; charitable
Answer: malicious
Synonyms: baleful; cruel; hateful; hostile; maleficent; malicious; malign; malignant; nasty; sinister; spiteful; vicious
Example: "The malevolent villain plotted to overthrow the kingdom and seize power."

mendicant (adjective) /ˈmɛn dɪ kənt/
Meaning: When someone or a religious order is characterized as mendicant, it implies a reliance on the generosity of others for basic sustenance, often involving a vow of poverty and a life devoted to spiritual or charitable pursuits rather than material wealth.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to mendicant?
Options: beggar; donor; benefactor; giver
Answer: beggar
Synonyms: begging; impecunious; impoverished; pauperized; penniless; penurious; scrounging; sponging
Example: "The mendicant monk relied on the generosity of others for his sustenance."

nexus (noun) /ˈnɛksəs/
Meaning: It represents a pivotal node or juncture where multiple factors or components come together and interact.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to nexus?
Options: hub; disconnection; separation; periphery
Answer: hub
Synonyms: association; bond; chain; concatenation; connection; correlation; integration; intersection; joining; junction; link; linkage
Example: "Their house became a vibrant nexus of intellectual and artistic activity."

obfuscate (verb) /ˈɒbfʌskeɪt/
Meaning: It is often used to describe language or communication that is intentionally made vague or confusing in order to conceal the true meaning or intent.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to obfuscate?
Options: confuse; clarify; elucidate; illuminate
Answer: confuse
Synonyms: blur; cloud; complicate; conceal; confuse; cover; darken; disguise; hide; screen; veil
Example: "Politicians sometimes obfuscate the truth to avoid taking responsibility for their actions."

oscillate (verb) /ˈɒsɪleɪt/
Meaning: This motion can be regular or irregular and can occur in a variety of contexts, such as physics, mechanics, electronics, or human behavior.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to oscillate?
Options: swing; stabilize; remain; steady
Answer: swing
Synonyms: fluctuate; rock; seesaw; shake; sway; undulate; vibrate; waver; wobble
Example: "The pendulum continues to oscillate, marking the passage of time with its rhythmic swing."

pariah (noun) /pəˈrʌɪə/
Meaning: The term has its origins in India, where it was used to describe members of the lowest social caste who were considered untouchable and were therefore shunned by the rest of society.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to pariah?
Options: outcast; insider; accepted; integrated
Answer: outcast
Synonyms: castaway; exile; outcast; outlaw; outsider; refugee; reject; undesirable
Example: "The pariah found solace in the wilderness, away from judgmental eyes."

parsimony (noun) /ˈpɑr səˌmoʊ ni/
Meaning: It reflects a mindset or behavior that prioritizes saving and minimal expenditure in order to conserve resources.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to parsimony?
Options: stinginess; generosity; lavishness; extravagance
Answer: stinginess
Synonyms: austerity; economy; efficiency; frugality; moderation; prudence; restraint; simplicity; sparingness; stinginess; thrift; tightfistedness
Example: "Parsimony is often valued in scientific theories, favoring simpler explanations over complex ones."

pedagogy (noun) /ˈpɛdəɡɒdʒi/
Meaning: It encompasses the principles, techniques, and practices used by educators to facilitate learning and knowledge acquisition among students.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to pedagogy?
Options: teaching; neglect; ignorance; misguidance
Answer: teaching
Synonyms: coaching; cultivation; didactics; education; guidance; instruction; learning; methodology; schooling; teaching; training; tuition
Example: "The school's approach to pedagogy emphasizes hands-on learning."

peevish (adjective) /ˈpiːvɪʃ/
Meaning: A peevish person is often in a bad mood, and can be difficult to deal with because of their tendency to be grumpy, irritable, or sulky.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to peevish?
Options: irritable; cheerful; content; happy
Answer: irritable
Synonyms: childish; churlish; fractious; grumpy; irritable; petulant; sulky; sullen; testy; tetchy; touchy
Example: "His peevish attitude made it hard to work with him on the project."

penitence (noun) /ˈpɛnɪt(ə)ns/
Meaning: It implies a sense of contrition or repentance, and suggests that the person in question is aware of the harm or wrongdoing they have caused and is seeking to make amends.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to penitence?
Options: regret; defiance; indifference; remorselessness
Answer: regret
Synonyms: apology; atonement; compunction; contriteness; contrition; guilt; regret; remorse; repentance; shame; sorrow
Example: "Genuine penitence is essential for personal growth and change."

perquisite (noun) /ˈpəːkwɪzɪt/
Meaning: It is often provided by an employer as an incentive for employees to work for them, or to retain their services.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to perquisite?
Options: benefit; disadvantage; drawback; penalty
Answer: benefit
Synonyms: bonus; contribution; dividend; extra; gift; gratuity; largesse; offering; reward; tip
Example: "The executive's company car is a much-appreciated perquisite."

prudent (adjective) /ˈpruːd(ə)nt/
Meaning: It can refer to someone who is careful and thoughtful in their approach to problem-solving or decision-making, or who is able to anticipate and avoid potential problems or risks.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to prudent?
Options: cautious; careless; rash; imprudent
Answer: cautious
Synonyms: canny; cautious; commonsensical; intelligent; judicious; sagacious; sage; sensible; shrewd
Example: "It would be prudent to save some of your wages each month."

remunerate (verb) /rɪˈmjuːnəreɪt/
Meaning: It is used in situations when an individual or organization is being compensated for their time, effort and skills.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to remunerate?
Options: pay; underpay; exploit; shortchange
Answer: pay
Synonyms: award; compensate; grant; indemnify; recompense; refund; reimburse; requite; reward
Example: "The company is committed to remunerate employees fairly for their hard work."

reticent (adjective) /ˈrɛtɪs(ə)nt/
Meaning: When someone is described as reticent, it suggests that they are not naturally forthcoming in conversation and may choose to keep their thoughts and emotions private.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to reticent?
Options: reserved; communicative; open; talkative
Answer: reserved
Synonyms: bashful; hesitant; restrained; secretive; shy; silent; taciturn; uncommunicative; unforthcoming
Example: "She's usually reticent in social gatherings, preferring to listen."

rhetorical (adjective) /rɪˈtɔr ɪ kəl/
Meaning: It refers to the use of language and communication skills intended to have an impact on an audience, often employing techniques such as figures of speech, emotional appeals, or logical reasoning.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to rhetorical?
Options: persuasive; unconvincing; ineffective; feeble
Answer: persuasive
Synonyms: artistic; captivating; compelling; dramatic; eloquent; expressive; figurative; impactful; influential; oratorical; persuasive; symbolic
Example: "The politician delivered a powerful rhetorical speech that moved the audience to tears."

savant (noun) /ˈsav(ə)nt/
Meaning: It is often used to describe people with exceptional abilities in fields such as art, music, mathematics, or memory, despite having a developmental disability or other psychological impairment.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to savant?
Options: expert; novice; amateur; beginner
Answer: expert
Synonyms: academic; authority; expert; guru; intellectual; master; philosopher; sage; scholar; thinker
Example: "The channel portrayed his as a savant of computer science."

sedulous (adjective) /ˈsɛdjʊləs/
Meaning: When a person is described as sedulous, it implies that they approach their work with a high degree of dedication and careful attention to detail.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to sedulous?
Options: diligent; lazy; negligent; indifferent
Answer: diligent
Synonyms: assiduous; attentive; conscientious; dedicated; determined; diligent; hardworking; industrious; meticulous; painstaking; persevering; studious
Example: "She was sedulous in her efforts to learn the new language."

seminal (adjective) /ˈsɛmɪn(ə)l/
Meaning: It can be used to describe a work, idea, or contribution that is considered to be a turning point or a foundation for future development.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to seminal?
Options: influential; unoriginal; derivative; inconsequential
Answer: influential
Synonyms: creative; groundbreaking; important; influential; innovative; major; original; pioneering; pivotal
Example: "His radical ideas were seminal in the establishment of a new political philosophy."

servitude (noun) /ˈsəːvɪtjuːd/
Meaning: Servitude can take many forms, such as slavery, forced labor, debt bondage, or other forms of involuntary servitude.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to servitude?
Options: bondage; freedom; liberation; independence
Answer: bondage
Synonyms: bondage; confinement; enslavement; obedience; serfdom; slavery; subjugation; vassalage
Example: "The slaves endured a life of servitude under their oppressive masters."

spurious (adjective) /ˈspjʊərɪəs/
Meaning: The adjective 'Spurious' is used to describe something that is A spurious claim or argument may be presented as if it is true, but lacks evidence or validity, and may be intended to mislead or manipulate others.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to spurious?
Options: false; genuine; authentic; real
Answer: false
Synonyms: artificial; bogus; contrived; feigned; forged; fraudulent; imitation; phony; pretended; sham
Example: "The study was later found to be spurious and its results were discredited."

stoic (noun) /ˈstəʊɪk/
Meaning: The term "stoic" is derived from the Stoic philosophy, which was a school of philosophy that was popular in ancient Greece and Rome.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to stoic?
Options: unemotional; emotional; expressive; sensitive
Answer: unemotional
Synonyms: aloof; apathetic; calm; composed; cool; detached; disciplined; emotionless; impassive; imperturbable; indifferent; phlegmatic
Example: "The stoic philosopher believed in living a life of virtue and self-control."

transgression (noun) /tranzˈɡrɛʃn/
Meaning: It involves going beyond the bounds of what is considered acceptable or lawful.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to transgression?
Options: violation; compliance; obedience; observance
Answer: violation
Synonyms: breach; fault; infringement; lapse; misdemeanor; offence; trespass; violation; wrongdoing
Example: "She felt remorseful after committing a significant transgression against her friend."

unctuous (adjective) /ˈʌŋ(k)tjʊəs/
Meaning: When we characterize someone or their actions as unctuous, we emphasize their use of flattery and ingratiating behavior, often to an exaggerated or cloying extent.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to unctuous?
Options: oily; genuine; sincere; honest
Answer: oily
Synonyms: fake; greasy; hypocritical; obsequious; oily; phony; slick; smooth; superficial; sycophantic
Example: "His unctuous tone made her uncomfortable, as if he was hiding something."

urbane (adjective) /əːˈbeɪn/
Meaning: When we characterize an individual as urbane, we are highlighting their refined and cosmopolitan qualities, which include a knowledge of art, culture, and etiquette.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to urbane?
Options: sophisticated; uncultured; unrefined; crude
Answer: sophisticated
Synonyms: charming; civilized; cosmopolitan; courteous; cultured; dignified; elegant; graceful; gracious; polished; polite; refined
Example: "His urbane charm made him a popular host."

vehement (adjective) /ˈviːɪm(ə)nt/
Meaning: When we characterize someone or something as vehement, we emphasize the fervor and vigor with which they express themselves or pursue a cause.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to vehement?
Options: passionate; apathetic; indifferent; unemotional
Answer: passionate
Synonyms: ardent; determined; earnest; energetic; enthusiastic; fervent; fierce; forceful; heated; impassioned; intense; passionate
Example: "She expressed her vehement opposition to the proposed changes at the town hall meeting."

vociferate (verb) /voʊˈsɪf əˌreɪt/
Meaning: When someone vociferates, they raise their voice with intensity and force, often with the intention of being heard and making their presence known.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to vociferate?
Options: shout; whisper; murmur; mumble
Answer: shout
Synonyms: bellow; clamor; cry; exclaim; holler; protest; roar; scream; screech; shout; thunder; yell
Example: "The coach will vociferate instructions to the players during the game."

wily (adjective) /ˈwʌɪli/
Meaning: When we characterize someone as wily, we emphasize their ability to think and act shrewdly, often with a keen awareness of how to outsmart others.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to wily?
Options: cunning; naive; straightforward; honest
Answer: cunning
Synonyms: calculating; canny; crafty; devious; disingenuous; guileful; scheming; sharp; shrewd; sly
Example: "The wily fox was always able to elude the farmer's traps."