English Synonyms for GRE 13 (Graduate Record Examination) Vocabulary Words – Online Quiz!

accede (verb) /əkˈsiːd/
Meaning: When someone 'accedes' to something, they are essentially granting their agreement or compliance to a particular course of action or request put forth by another party.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to accede?
Options: agree; refuse; dissent; reject
Answer: agree
Synonyms: accept; acquiesce; admit; assent; comply; concede; concur; consent; endorse; grant
Example: "She will accede to your request once you provide a compelling argument."

ameliorate (verb) /əˈmiːlɪəreɪt/
Meaning: Ameliorating a situation can involve making changes or taking steps to improve it, and may involve efforts to solve problems, reduce difficulties, or make things more comfortable or enjoyable.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to ameliorate?
Options: improve; worsen; degrade; deteriorate
Answer: improve
Synonyms: alleviate; correct; improve; mitigate; rectify; redress; refine; remedy; repair; resolve; right
Example: "Emergency services are trying to ameliorate the damage caused to the building."

amorphous (adjective) /əˈmɔːfəs/
Meaning: When applied to an object or concept, it implies that it is shapeless, vague, or lacking clear boundaries.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to amorphous?
Options: shapeless; structured; defined; rigid
Answer: shapeless
Synonyms: characterless; inchoate; indeterminate; irregular; nebulous; nondescript; unstructured; vague
Example: "The amorphous cloud morphed into various shapes."

anachronism (noun) /əˈnakrənɪz(ə)m/
Meaning: It occurs when an object, custom, idea, or event is placed in a time period in which it does not belong, creating a disconnect between the past and present.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to anachronism?
Options: misplacement; contemporaneity; modernity; appropriateness
Answer: misplacement
Synonyms: antiquity; archaism; fossil; incongruity; obsolete; outdated; relic; throwback; vestige
Example: "The knight's smartphone was an anachronism in the medieval castle."

aplomb (noun) /əˈplɒm/
Meaning: A person with aplomb is able to remain calm and collected, and is able to handle difficult or unexpected situations with grace and self-assurance.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to aplomb?
Options: confidence; anxiety; nervousness; uncertainty
Answer: confidence
Synonyms: assurance; calmness; collectedness; composure; confidence; coolness; equanimity; imperturbability; poise; sangfroid; serenity
Example: "He mediated the dispute with great equanimity and aplomb."

aspersion (noun) /əˈspəːʃ(ə)n/
Meaning: It is a verbal attack, often made in the form of a criticism, accusation or insinuation, that is intended to tarnish the reputation or integrity of the person or thing being targeted.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to aspersion?
Options: slander; praise; commendation; compliment
Answer: slander
Synonyms: abuse; calumny; censure; defamation; reproach; slander; slur; smear; vilification
Example: "Her aspersion-filled comments left a trail of doubt and mistrust among the team members."

avarice (noun) /ˈav(ə)rɪs/
Meaning: It represents an intense greed or covetousness, often characterized by a relentless pursuit of riches and an utter disregard for ethical, moral, or social considerations.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to avarice?
Options: greed; generosity; philanthropy; charity
Answer: greed
Synonyms: acquisitiveness; avariciousness; covetousness; cupidity; desire; greed; mammonism; materialism; miserliness; parsimony; rapacity; venality
Example: "His avarice led him to engage in unethical business practices."

carte-blanche (noun) /kɑːt ˈblɑːnʃ/
Meaning: "Carte blanche" is a French phrase that translates to "white card" or "blank card.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to carte-blanche?
Options: free rein; restriction; limitation; constraint
Answer: free
Synonyms: authority; autonomy; discretion; flexibility; freedom; license; permission; power; privilege; unrestricted
Example: "The CEO granted his trusted advisor carte blanche to make critical decisions."

castigate (verb) /ˈkastɪɡeɪt/
Meaning: It can also mean to punish or discipline someone severely, especially for a wrongdoing.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to castigate?
Options: reprimand; commend; praise; laud
Answer: reprimand
Synonyms: admonish; berate; censure; chastise; discipline; lambast; lecture; punish; rebuke; reproach
Example: "Teachers should not castigate students in front of the class, as it can harm their self-esteem."

catalyst (noun) /ˈkatəlɪst/
Meaning: A catalyst can be a person who inspires or motivates others, a situation that prompts action, or a thing that acts as a stimulus or impetus.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to catalyst?
Options: trigger; impediment; hindrance; obstruction
Answer: trigger
Synonyms: determinant; driver; generator; impetus; influence; inspiration; instigator; reason; stimulus
Example: "Her speech was the catalyst for a wave of social change."

chagrin (noun) /ˈʃaɡrɪn/
Meaning: It is often experienced when one's expectations or hopes have not been met, leading to a sense of vexation or irritation with oneself or a situation.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to chagrin?
Options: embarrassment; pride; satisfaction; pleasure
Answer: embarrassment
Synonyms: annoyance; disappointment; discontent; dismay; displeasure; disquiet; dissatisfaction; embarrassment; frustration; humiliation; irritation; mortification
Example: "His public blunder filled him with deep chagrin, and he couldn't shake off the embarrassment for weeks."

contravene (verb) /ˌkɒntrəˈviːn/
Meaning: When an action or decision contravenes a particular rule or law, it is in direct conflict with the established norm and is therefore illegal or unethical.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to contravene?
Options: violate; obey; comply; adhere
Answer: violate
Synonyms: breach; break; defy; disobey; disregard; flout; fracture; infract; infringe; repudiate; transgress; trespass
Example: "The company's actions contravene the established industry standards."

curative (adjective) /ˈkjʊrətɪv/
Meaning: It suggests a quality of being effective in restoring health and wellness.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to curative?
Options: healing; harmful; detrimental; injurious
Answer: healing
Synonyms: corrective; medicinal; recuperative; rejuvenating; remedial; restorative; salutary; therapeutic
Example: "The curative properties of the herbal remedy amazed him."

emancipate (verb) /ɪˈmæn səˌpeɪt/
Meaning: It involves granting or obtaining freedom, rights, or independence to individuals or groups who were previously in a position of servitude or under restrictive conditions.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to emancipate?
Options: liberate; subjugate; enslave; confine
Answer: liberate
Synonyms: deliver; disenthrall; extricate; free; liberate; release; unbind; unchain; unfetter; unshackle; unyoke
Example: "The abolitionists fought tirelessly to emancipate enslaved people and end the institution of slavery."

enmity (noun) /ˈɛnmɪti/
Meaning: It describes a state of intense opposition and animus, often rooted in longstanding grievances or conflicts.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to enmity?
Options: hostility; friendship; amity; affection
Answer: hostility
Synonyms: acrimony; animosity; animus; antipathy; bitterness; friction; loathing; malice; rancor; spite
Example: "The enmity between the two neighboring countries has lasted for centuries."

excoriate (verb) /ɪkˈskɔːrɪeɪt/
Meaning: It can also mean to denounce or berate someone in a harsh or bitter manner.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to excoriate?
Options: lash out; praise; commend; laud
Answer: lash
Synonyms: berate; blast; castigate; censure; chastise; denounce; lambast; rebuke; revile; scold
Example: "Critics excoriate the director for his controversial choices in the movie."

exculpate (verb) /ˈɛkskʌlpeɪt/
Meaning: It is often used in the context of a legal trial, where an individual is being accused of a crime, and the goal is to provide evidence that the individual is not guilty.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to exculpate?
Options: absolve; blame; incriminate; accuse
Answer: absolve
Synonyms: absolve; acquit; discharge; dismiss; excuse; exonerate; free; pardon; release; vindicate
Example: "The evidence presented during the trial did not exculpate the defendant."

flaccid (adjective) /ˈflasɪd/
Meaning: When something is characterized as flaccid, it typically refers to a loss of strength, resilience, or vitality, resulting in a sagging, floppy, or drooping appearance.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to flaccid?
Options: limp; firm; taut; rigid
Answer: limp
Synonyms: droopy; flabby; flimsy; floppy; loose; mushy; slack; soft; squashy; squishy
Example: "The balloon lost its air and became flaccid, slowly sinking to the ground."

flout (verb) /flaʊt/
Meaning: Flout refers to the act of It is often used to describe someone who openly disobeys or ignores something that is widely accepted or expected.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to flout?
Options: disregard; comply; obey; respect
Answer: disregard
Synonyms: contravene; defy; deride; disobey; disregard; ignore; mock; repudiate; ridicule; scoff; scorn; spurn
Example: "He chose to flout the dress code, arriving at the formal event in jeans and a t-shirt."

gallimaufry (noun) /ɡa.lɪˈmɔː.fɹi/
Meaning: It can refer to a mixture of different elements, such as a hodgepodge of colors, flavors, or styles, or a collection of unrelated objects or ideas.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to gallimaufry?
Options: jumble; order; structure; system
Answer: jumble
Synonyms: amalgam; assortment; farrago; hotchpotch; miscellanea; mishmash; potpourri; ragbag
Example: "The antique store had a gallimaufry of items, from vintage books to ancient relics."

garish (adjective) /ˈɡɛːrɪʃ/
Meaning: It is often used to describe colors, patterns, or styles that are too bold or overwhelming and clash with each other.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to garish?
Options: gaudy; understated; subdued; tasteful
Answer: gaudy
Synonyms: blatant; brash; brilliant; flash; flashy; gaudy; glaring; ostentatious; raffish; swanky; tacky
Example: "The garish neon lights of the city's nightlife district could be seen from miles away."

gravitas (noun) /ˈɡravɪtas/
Meaning: It conveys a sense of depth and wisdom, often associated with someone who carries themselves with a profound sense of responsibility, authority, and maturity.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to gravitas?
Options: seriousness; frivolity; levity; flippancy
Answer: seriousness
Synonyms: attentiveness; authority; decorum; dignity; earnestness; grandeur; gravity; importance; intentness; majesty; poise; respectability
Example: "His speech was filled with gravitas, commanding the audience's respect."

ideology (noun) /ˌaɪ diˈɒl ə dʒi/
Meaning: It represents a structured and coherent framework that guides and shapes an individual's or a group's understanding of the world, their values, and their actions.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to ideology?
Options: doctrine; apathy; disinterest; pragmatism
Answer: doctrine
Synonyms: belief; creed; doctrine; dogma; mindset; perspective; philosophy; principles; tenets; theory; thought; worldview
Example: "The political party's ideology emphasized individual liberties and limited government intervention."

impervious (adjective) /ɪmˈpəːvɪəs/
Meaning: It is often used to describe something that is resistant or immune to a particular influence or effect.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to impervious?
Options: resistant; susceptible; vulnerable; responsive
Answer: resistant
Synonyms: immune; impenetrable; impermeable; insusceptible; invulnerable; resistant; unaffected; unassailable; unimpressionable; unresponsive; unshakeable; unswerving
Example: "Despite the loud noise outside, she was impervious, continuing her work with unflinching focus."

incisive (adjective) /ɪnˈsʌɪsɪv/
Meaning: Incisive means penetrating, keen, or sharp.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to incisive?
Options: penetrating; vague; dull; superficial
Answer: penetrating
Synonyms: concise; discerning; insightful; intelligent; perceptive; pithy; punchy; succinct; trenchant
Example: "His incisive remarks cut through the meeting's ambiguity."

irreverent (adjective) /ɪˈrɛvərənt/
Meaning: An irreverent person may make light of serious or sacred topics, make jokes that others find offensive, or question authority or tradition.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to irreverent?
Options: disrespectful; respectful; reverent; deferential
Answer: disrespectful
Synonyms: audacious; blasphemous; cheeky; contemptuous; disrespectful; flippant; iconoclastic; impertinent; impious; impudent; insolent; insubordinate
Example: "His irreverent humor always lightened the mood at our meetings."

iteration (noun) /ˌɪtəˈreɪʃn/
Meaning: It is a fundamental concept in computer science and mathematics, and it is used in many different areas such as programming, algorithm design, and data analysis.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to iteration?
Options: repetition; cessation; halt; stoppage
Answer: repetition
Synonyms: duplication; recitation; reduplication; rehearsal; reiteration; renewal; replay; replication; rerun
Example: "The latest iteration surprised everyone."

junta (noun) /ˈdʒʌntə/
Meaning: The term originated in Spain and is commonly used to describe a group of military officers who seize power from a civilian government.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to junta?
Options: cabal; democracy; republic; electorate
Answer: cabal
Synonyms: assembly; cabal; clique; confederacy; coterie; faction; gang; league; mob; ring
Example: "The military junta took control of the government overnight."

luminary (noun) /ˈluːmɪn(ə)ri/
Meaning: Luminaries are often seen as experts or authority figures in their respective fields, and they are often admired and respected by others.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to luminary?
Options: star; unknown; nobody; nonentity
Answer: star
Synonyms: celebrity; dignitary; eminence; expert; leader; master; megastar; personage; superstar
Example: "He was a luminary in the field of physics."

lustration (noun) /lʌsˈtreɪʃᵊn/
Meaning: Lustration refers to a process or action undertaken in the aftermath of a significant historical event or regime change, typically involving the purification, cleansing, or scrutiny of individuals or institutions associated with the previous regime.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to lustration?
Options: purification; corruption; contamination; degradation
Answer: purification
Synonyms: ablution; accountability; atonement; cleansing; decontamination; detoxification; disclosure; exorcism; expiation; expurgation; holiness; purging
Example: "The government implemented a lustration program to identify and remove corrupt officials."

meritocracy (noun) /ˌmɛrɪˈtɒkrəsi/
Meaning: In a meritocracy, individuals are judged based on their talents, skills, and accomplishments, rather than their social status or connections.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to meritocracy?
Options: competence; nepotism; favoritism; oligarchy
Answer: competence
Synonyms: adeptness; competency; excellence; expertise; proficiency; qualification; talentocracy; worthiness
Example: "In a meritocracy, hard work and talent are the keys to success."

modicum (noun) /ˈmɒdɪkəm/
Meaning: When "modicum" is used, it suggests that there is at least a minimum or essential quantity of a substance, quality, or attribute present.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to modicum?
Options: bit; abundance; plethora; excess
Answer: bit
Synonyms: dash; drop; fragment; glimmer; grain; iota; little; ounce; pinch; scrap; shred; smidgen
Example: "She had only a modicum of patience left after a long day."

moribund (adjective) /ˈmɒrɪbʌnd/
Meaning: When something is labeled as moribund, it implies that it is no longer thriving or vital, and it may be on the verge of disappearing or becoming obsolete.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to moribund?
Options: dying; thriving; flourishing; prospering
Answer: dying
Synonyms: defunct; deteriorating; doomed; expiring; fading; fallen; sinking; terminal
Example: "The company was in a moribund state, with no signs of growth or progress."

obstinate (adjective) /ˈɒbstɪnət/
Meaning: It signifies a strong and often inflexible determination to adhere to one's opinions, beliefs, or course of action, even in the face of logical arguments or evidence to the contrary.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to obstinate?
Options: stubborn; flexible; compliant; amenable
Answer: stubborn
Synonyms: adamant; determined; dogged; headstrong; immovable; inflexible; intransigent; obdurate; resolute; rigid; steadfast; stubborn
Example: "Despite all efforts to convince him, he remained obstinate in his refusal to apologize."

pastoral (adjective) /ˈpɑːst(ə)rəl/
Meaning: It often evokes a sense of tranquility and simplicity associated with pastoral settings.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to pastoral?
Options: bucolic; urban; industrial; metropolitan
Answer: bucolic
Synonyms: agrestic; agricultural; Arcadian; bucolic; countrified; country; idyllic; provincial; rustic
Example: "The pastoral landscape was dotted with grazing sheep and picturesque farmhouses."

paucity (noun) /ˈpɔːsɪti/
Meaning: It can be used to describe a situation in which there is not enough of something, whether it is a physical resource such as food or water, or an abstract resource such as information or support.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to paucity?
Options: scarcity; abundance; plenty; surplus
Answer: scarcity
Synonyms: absence; dearth; deficiency; deficit; inadequacy; insufficiency; lack; poverty; scantiness
Example: "Due to a paucity of rain, the region faces a severe drought."

philanthropic (adjective) /ˌfɪl ənˈθrɒp ɪk/
Meaning: A philanthropic individual or entity exhibits a selfless and compassionate nature, demonstrating a strong commitment to improving the lives of others and making a positive impact on society.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to philanthropic?
Options: charitable; selfish; greedy; miserly
Answer: charitable
Synonyms: altruistic; beneficent; benevolent; charitable; compassionate; generous; giving; humanitarian; kindhearted; liberal; munificent; selfless
Example: "The wealthy entrepreneur engaged in philanthropic activities to support underprivileged children."

prehensile (adjective) /priːˈhɛnsʌɪl/
Meaning: When applied to biology or anatomy, it signifies the ability of a specific body part to wrap around or firmly grip items, often for purposes such as feeding, climbing, or manipulation.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to prehensile?
Options: grasping; rigid; inflexible; unyielding
Answer: grasping
Synonyms: catching; clinging; clutching; grabbing; gripping; plucking; seizing; taking
Example: "The monkey's prehensile tail allowed it to swing effortlessly through the trees."

putative (adjective) /ˈpjuːtətɪv/
Meaning: It can also refer to something that is supposed or reputed to be true or to have a particular character or quality.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to putative?
Options: assumed; disproven; refuted; rejected
Answer: assumed
Synonyms: alleged; apparent; assumed; imputed; presumed; presumptive; reported; reputed; supposed
Example: "The putative cure, still unproven, sparked a wave of hope globally."

qualm (noun) /kwɑːm/
Meaning: It is a sudden feeling of doubt or misgiving.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to qualm?
Options: unease; certainty; confidence; assurance
Answer: unease
Synonyms: anxiety; apprehension; compunction; doubt; hesitation; misgiving; objection; reluctance; reservation; scruple; trepidation; uncertainty
Example: "His qualm about the ethical implications of the decision was evident."

ramification (noun) /ˌræmɪfɪˈkeɪʃᵊn/
Meaning: Ramifications are like the interconnected branches of a tree, extending in various directions and affecting different aspects of a situation.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to ramification?
Options: consequence; cause; origin; source
Answer: consequence
Synonyms: aftermath; consequence; development; effect; implication; issue; offshoot; outcome; repercussion; result; sequel
Example: "We need to consider the potential ramification of this policy change."

ramshackle (adjective) /ˈramˌʃakl/
Meaning: A ramshackle structure often shows visible signs of neglect, with loose, crooked, or missing parts, sagging roofs, crumbling walls, and a generally dilapidated appearance.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to ramshackle?
Options: dilapidated; sturdy; sound; robust
Answer: dilapidated
Synonyms: abandoned; crumbling; decaying; decrepit; derelict; dilapidated; flimsy; rickety; tottering
Example: "The ramshackle house leaned to one side, showing signs of neglect."

semblance (noun) /ˈsɛmbləns/
Meaning: It is often used to describe a situation where there is a superficial or deceptive similarity to something, but the underlying reality is different.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to semblance?
Options: appearance; reality; truth; actuality
Answer: appearance
Synonyms: act; charade; disguise; façade; front; guise; masquerade; pretense; resemblance; veneer
Example: "Despite their differences, there was a semblance of unity among the team."

serendipity (noun) /ˌsɛrənˈdɪpɪti/
Meaning: It can also refer to the quality of making such discoveries by chance.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to serendipity?
Options: fortune; misfortune; planning; predictability
Answer: fortune
Synonyms: accident; blessing; coincidence; fortuitousness; godsend; happenstance; luck; opportunity
Example: "Their enduring love story is a testament to the power of serendipity in our lives."

sophistry (noun) /ˈsɒfɪstri/
Meaning: It is a form of reasoning that appears to be logical and rational, but is actually flawed or invalid.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to sophistry?
Options: fallacy; truth; honesty; logic
Answer: fallacy
Synonyms: ambiguity; casuistry; chicanery; cunning; deceit; deception; delusion; dishonesty; equivocation; fallacy; manipulation; misconception
Example: "He was accused of using sophistry to make his argument sound more convincing."

sublime (adjective) /səˈblʌɪm/
Meaning: When something is referred to as sublime, it suggests that it possesses an extraordinary beauty, grandeur, or significance that goes beyond the ordinary or the mundane.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to sublime?
Options: magnificent; ordinary; mundane; trivial
Answer: magnificent
Synonyms: amazing; celestial; divine; elevated; exalted; glorious; grand; great; incredible; magnificent; majestic; marvelous
Example: "The view from the mountaintop was truly sublime, with endless vistas stretching out before us."

supercilious (adjective) /ˌsuːpəˈsɪlɪəs/
Meaning: When someone is described as supercilious, they project an air of arrogance and condescension, often looking down upon others with a sense of self-importance.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to supercilious?
Options: haughty; humble; modest; respectful
Answer: haughty
Synonyms: aloof; arrogant; condescending; contemptuous; disdainful; haughty; imperious; overbearing; patronizing; pompous; pretentious; snobbish
Example: "Her supercilious tone made it clear that she considered herself above everyone else."

sycophant (noun) /ˈsɪkəfant/
Meaning: A sycophant is often seen as a "Yes-man" or someone who will do or say whatever they think will please the person they are trying to impress, in order to gain something in return, such as a promotion, a favor or a privilege.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to sycophant?
Options: flatterer; critic; detractor; challenger
Answer: flatterer
Synonyms: bootlicker; crawler; fawner; flatterer; flunkey; groveler; lackey; lickspittle; minion; obsequious; toady; truckler
Example: "I could tell by his praise that he was just another sycophant seeking favor."

terse (adjective) /təːs/
Meaning: When something is described as terse, it is devoid of unnecessary elaboration, verbosity, or embellishment.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to terse?
Options: laconic; verbose; long-winded; prolix
Answer: laconic
Synonyms: abrupt; brusque; concise; curt; gruff; laconic; pithy; rude; short; snappy; succinct; tart
Example: "His terse reply left no room for further discussion."

verbiage (noun) /ˈvəːbɪɪdʒ/
Meaning: Verbiage can encompass verbose or wordy expressions, superfluous details, and intricate phrases that make communication less clear and concise.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to verbiage?
Options: wordiness; conciseness; brevity; terseness
Answer: wordiness
Synonyms: circumlocution; floridity; pleonasm; prolixity; repetition; tautology; verbosity; wordiness
Example: "The excessive verbiage in his report hindered understanding."