English Synonyms for GRE 2 (Graduate Record Examination) Vocabulary Words – Online Quiz!

abstemious (adjective) /əbˈstiːmɪəs/
Meaning: A person who is abstemious is someone who is moderate in their consumption of alcohol, and is also someone who eats very little or is careful about what they eat.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to abstemious?
Options: temperate; indulgent; gluttonous; unrestrained
Answer: temperate
Synonyms: abstentious; abstinent; ascetic; austere; frugal; moderate; sparing; temperate
Example: "His abstemious lifestyle, free of excess, sets a healthy example."

accrue (verb) /əˈkru/
Meaning: It signifies the process of something growing or building up over a period, whether it's wealth, earnings, benefits, or even responsibilities.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to accrue?
Options: accumulate; diminish; decrease; deplete
Answer: accumulate
Synonyms: amass; collect; enlarge; ensue; flow; follow; gain; gather; grow; increase; stockpile
Example: "As time passes, interest will accrue on your long-term investments."

amenable (adjective) /əˈmiːnəbl/
Meaning: It can also refer to something that is easy to deal with or manage.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to amenable?
Options: cooperative; uncooperative; stubborn; resistant
Answer: cooperative
Synonyms: accommodating; acquiescent; adaptable; agreeable; compliant; cooperative; obliging; open; persuadable; pliable; receptive; responsive
Example: "She is amenable to trying new foods and loves exploring different cuisines."

blather (verb) /ˈblaðə/
Meaning: It implies a sense of talking too much without saying anything meaningful or important.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to blather?
Options: babble; articulate; concise; succinct
Answer: babble
Synonyms: babble; blabber; chatter; claptrap; drivel; gabble; gibberish; jabber; piffle; prattle; twaddle
Example: "He tends to blather on about irrelevant topics."

cathartic (adjective) /kəˈθɑːtɪk/
Meaning: It refers to an experience or expression that serves as a release of pent-up emotions, such as anger, sadness, or fear.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to cathartic?
Options: purifying; upsetting; aggravating; disturbing
Answer: purifying
Synonyms: calming; freeing; liberating; poignant; purgative; refreshing; releasing; soothing; therapeutic
Example: "The play's climax was cathartic for the audience, who finally saw justice served."

caustic (adjective) /ˈkɔːstɪk/
Meaning: When something is characterized as caustic, it implies a level of harshness or acidity in the words or tone used, and it can be especially cutting or scathing in its criticism.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to caustic?
Options: biting; soothing; mild; gentle
Answer: biting
Synonyms: acidic; harsh; acrid; sardonic; bitter; cutting; mordant; corrosive; acerbic; causticity
Example: "Her caustic remarks left a trail of hurt feelings in their wake."

compunction (noun) /kəmˈpʌŋkʃ(ə)n/
Meaning: Compunction is a noun that refers to a feeling of uneasiness or anxiety for having done something wrong or for having failed to do something that one should have done.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to compunction?
Options: remorse; indifference; unconcern; insensitivity
Answer: remorse
Synonyms: condemnation; contrition; guilt; hesitation; misgiving; penitence; qualm; regret; reluctance; remorse; repentance; scruples
Example: "She acted without compunction, determined to achieve her goal."

credulous (adjective) /kredʒʊləs/
Meaning: It implies a tendency to trust others or information too readily, often without sufficient evidence or skepticism.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to credulous?
Options: gullible; skeptical; doubtful; questioning
Answer: gullible
Synonyms: gullible; impressionable; ingenuous; naive; susceptible; trusting; uncritical; unquestioning; unskeptical; unsuspecting
Example: "He was a credulous investor, easily swayed by promises of high returns."

deprecate (verb) /ˈdɛprɪkeɪt/
Meaning: It is characterized by a tendency to express a negative or critical opinion, often with the intent to suggest that something is inferior or not worthy of attention.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to deprecate?
Options: criticize; praise; approve; endorse
Answer: criticize
Synonyms: disapprove; condemn; censure; denounce; deplore; dismiss; disparage; denigrate; derogate
Example: "They deprecate the use of plastic bags in favor of more sustainable options."

despotism (noun) /ˈdɛs pəˌtɪz əm/
Meaning: Despotism is often associated with authoritarian regimes that display tyrannical and oppressive tendencies.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to despotism?
Options: tyranny; democracy; republicanism; freedom
Answer: tyranny
Synonyms: absolutism; autarchy; authoritarianism; autocracy; dictatorship; monocracy; oppression; totalitarianism; tyranny
Example: "The citizens suffered under the despotism of the oppressive regime."

eclectic (adjective) /ɪˈklɛktɪk/
Meaning: When something is described as eclectic, it suggests that it combines elements from different traditions, backgrounds, or genres, creating a unique and often harmonious blend.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to eclectic?
Options: varied; uniform; homogeneous; similar
Answer: varied
Synonyms: assorted; broad; diverse; jumbled; miscellaneous; mixed; myriad; varied
Example: "My personal style is very eclectic, I like to mix and match different pieces from various time periods and cultures."

effrontery (noun) /ɪˈfrʌnt(ə)ri/
Meaning: It is characterized by a lack of respect or disregard for social norms and conventions, and is often accompanied by audacity, nerve, or cheekiness.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to effrontery?
Options: audacity; deference; respect; humility
Answer: audacity
Synonyms: arrogance; audacity; brazenness; cheek; gall; insolence; nerve; presumption; temerity
Example: "The thief's effrontery in attempting to steal from the museum was bold."

eulogy (noun) /ˈjuːlədʒi/
Meaning: It is typically given at a funeral or memorial service by someone who knew the deceased well, such as a family member, friend, or colleague.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to eulogy?
Options: tribute; criticism; denunciation; condemnation
Answer: tribute
Synonyms: acclaim; accolade; applause; commendation; compliment; exaltation; glorification; praise
Example: "The eulogy was full of love and respect for their beloved father."

fecund (adjective) /ˈfi kʌnd/
Meaning: When a region, organism, or creative endeavor is described as fecund, it implies a remarkable capacity for generating new life, ideas, or outcomes.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to fecund?
Options: fruitful; barren; infertile; sterile
Answer: fruitful
Synonyms: breeding; fertile; fruitful; generative; lush; prolific; reproducing; rich; spawning; teeming
Example: "The fecund fields were ripe with golden wheat, ready for the harvest."

foray (noun) /ˈfɒreɪ/
Meaning: It refers to a situation where someone ventures into a new or unfamiliar place, often with the intention of gaining information or resources.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to foray?
Options: raid; retreat; defense; protection
Answer: raid
Synonyms: assault; attack; descent; incursion; invasion; offensive; onslaught; raid; sortie; strike
Example: "Their foray into the dense forest was filled with uncertainty."

fruition (noun) /frʊˈɪʃn/
Meaning: It signifies the moment when an idea, project, or effort reaches its intended outcome or comes to full fruition, resulting in the realization of its potential.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to fruition?
Options: realization; failure; disappointment; unfulfillment
Answer: realization
Synonyms: accomplishment; achievement; actualization; attainment; completion; consummation; culmination; fulfillment; fulfilment; manifestation; materialization; realization
Example: "Her hard work finally bore fruit, and her dream came to fruition."

gauche (adjective) /ɡəʊʃ/
Meaning: When someone is characterized as gauche, it implies that their behavior or actions are perceived as unsophisticated, clumsy, or inappropriate within a given social context.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to gauche?
Options: awkward; elegant; graceful; tactful
Answer: awkward
Synonyms: awkward; bumbling; clumsy; crude; graceless; inelegant; inept; maladroit; rude; tactless; uncouth; uncultured
Example: "He felt gauche and stumbled over his words during the job interview."

gregarious (adjective) /ɡrɪˈɡɛːrɪəs/
Meaning: A gregarious person is typically friendly, talkative, and at ease in social situations.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to gregarious?
Options: sociable; introverted; reserved; antisocial
Answer: sociable
Synonyms: affable; amiable; companionable; congenial; convivial; cordial; extroverted; friendly; genial; hospitable; outgoing; sociable
Example: "She was a sociable and gregarious young woman."

haggard (adjective) /ˈhæg ərd/
Meaning: It suggests a tired and weary appearance, with features that may be sunken, disheveled, or lacking vitality.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to haggard?
Options: worn; refreshed; rejuvenated; vibrant
Answer: worn
Synonyms: depleted; disheveled; drained; emaciated; exhausted; fatigued; gaunt; ragged; spent; tired; weary; worn
Example: "The once vibrant city now wore a haggard appearance."

ignominious (adjective) /ˌɪɡnə(ʊ)ˈmɪnɪəs/
Meaning: When a situation or event is described as ignominious, it implies that it is marked by a deep and public shame or a severe blow to one's reputation or self-esteem.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to ignominious?
Options: disgraceful; honorable; dignified; esteemed
Answer: disgraceful
Synonyms: contemptible; degrading; despicable; discreditable; disgraceful; dishonorable; disreputable; humiliating; ignoble; infamous; inglorious; opprobrious
Example: "The ignominious defeat left the football team in a state of shock."

incarnation (noun) /ˌɪn kɑrˈneɪ ʃən/
Meaning: It implies the idea of a divine being or essence assuming a physical or material presence.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to incarnation?
Options: embodiment; abstraction; nonexistence; disembody
Answer: embodiment
Synonyms: avatar; concretization; embodiment; epitome; exemplification; manifestation; materialization; personification; representation
Example: "The superhero's alter ego was considered the earthly incarnation of justice and righteousness."

inebriate (verb) /ɪˈniːbrɪeɪt/
Meaning: The verb "inebriate" means It involves the consumption of a significant amount of alcohol or drugs that can alter a person's mental and physical state, impairing their judgment and coordination.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to inebriate?
Options: intoxicate; sober; clear-headed; alert
Answer: intoxicate
Synonyms: befuddle; besot; drug; fuddle; intoxicate; muddle; narcotize; stupefy
Example: "The sweet wine did more than just please the palate; it began to inebriate him."

innuendo (noun) /ˌɪnjʊˈɛndəʊ/
Meaning: Innuendos often carry a double meaning, implying a hidden message or intention that is intended to be understood by the listener, but not stated outright.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to innuendo?
Options: implication; directness; clarity; explicitness
Answer: implication
Synonyms: allusion; aspersion; hint; implication; imputation; insinuation; intimation; overtone; reference; slur; suggestion; undertone
Example: "Her innuendo about his intentions left him feeling uneasy."

maestro (noun) /ˈmaɪ stroʊ/
Meaning: This noun is often used to describe a masterful conductor or a highly accomplished musician who possesses profound knowledge and mastery over their craft.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to maestro?
Options: virtuoso; novice; amateur; beginner
Answer: virtuoso
Synonyms: artist; conductor; director; expert; guru; leader; maestra; master; musician; prodigy; sage; virtuoso
Example: "The maestro stepped onto the podium, commanding the attention of the orchestra."

oblique (adjective) /ə(ʊ)ˈbliːk/
Meaning: The noun "oblique," in the context of something not expressed or done in a direct way, refers to a manner of communication or action that is indirect or subtle.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to oblique?
Options: indirect; direct; straightforward; explicit
Answer: indirect
Synonyms: circumlocutory; elliptical; evasive; implied; indirect; inexplicit; periphrastic; roundabout
Example: "The oblique rays of the setting sun cast long shadows across the field."

pernicious (adjective) /pəˈnɪʃəs/
Meaning: It implies a negative effect that is not always immediately apparent, but which can cause serious problems over time.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to pernicious?
Options: destructive; beneficial; harmless; healthy
Answer: destructive
Synonyms: adverse; damaging; dangerous; devastating; hurtful; malicious; nefarious; toxic; wicked
Example: "The pernicious spread of misinformation was a concern for public health officials."

pinnacle (noun) /ˈpɪnɪkl/
Meaning: The term is derived from the pointed peak of a mountain or spire, suggesting the ultimate height or topmost point.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to pinnacle?
Options: peak; nadir; bottom; low
Answer: peak
Synonyms: acme; apex; apogee; crest; crown; eminence; height; summit; top; vertex; zenith
Example: "Climbing Everest is the pinnacle of mountaineering."

purport (verb) /pəˈpɔːt/
Meaning: When someone 'purports' to do or be something, they are making a statement or assertion, suggesting that they have a certain identity, intention, or capability, but there may be doubts or skepticism about the validity of their claim.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to purport?
Options: claim; disclaim; reject; deny
Answer: claim
Synonyms: affirm; allege; argue; assert; avow; claim; contend; insist; proclaim; profess
Example: "They purport to have seen a ghost in the haunted mansion."

quisling (noun) /ˈkwɪzlɪŋ/
Meaning: A quisling is a person who collaborates with an enemy occupation force, particularly one who collaborates with an invading force that has taken control of their country.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to quisling?
Options: traitor; loyalist; patriot; faithful
Answer: traitor
Synonyms: backstabber; betrayer; collaborator; conspirator; defector; deserter; infiltrator; informer; Judas; renegade; traitor; turncoat
Example: "He was accused of being a quisling, a traitor to his country."

rancid (adjective) /ˈransɪd/
Meaning: This can refer to a variety of things, such as an unpleasant odor, a foul taste, or a disagreeable appearance.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to rancid?
Options: spoiled; fresh; pleasant; sweet
Answer: spoiled
Synonyms: disgusting; foul; gross; hideous; loathsome; noxious; putrid; repulsive; revolting; rotten; vile
Example: "The rancid butter in the fridge had a foul smell."

remonstrate (verb) /ˈrɛmənstreɪt/
Meaning: It typically involves expressing strong disapproval or opposition to a particular action, decision, or policy.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to remonstrate?
Options: protest; acquiesce; comply; assent
Answer: protest
Synonyms: argue; censure; challenge; combat; complain; criticize; dispute; dissent; expostulate
Example: "Parents remonstrate loudly when schools alter traditional learning methods."

rescind (verb) /rɪˈsɪnd/
Meaning: It is the opposite of enacting or making something valid.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to rescind?
Options: revoke; uphold; enforce; maintain
Answer: revoke
Synonyms: abolish; abrogate; annul; cancel; invalidate; nullify; overturn; quash; repeal; retract; reverse; revoke
Example: "The company had to rescind its controversial policy after public outcry."

retroactive (adjective) /ˌrɛ troʊˈæk tɪv/
Meaning: It is often used in legal contexts to describe laws or regulations that are enacted with the intention of applying to past situations.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to retroactive?
Options: backward-acting; prospective; forward; future
Answer: backward-acting
Synonyms: backdated; backward; compensating; compensative; compensatory; historical; previous; retrogressive; retrospective
Example: "The new policy is not retroactive, so it won't affect past transactions."

revile (verb) /rɪˈvʌɪl/
Meaning: It is a form of verbal attack that aims to demean, defame or vilify an individual, group or idea.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to revile?
Options: denigrate; praise; laud; admire
Answer: denigrate
Synonyms: abuse; defame; denigrate; libel; malign; reproach; scorn; slander; smear; traduce; vilify
Example: "The politician chose to revile his opponent during the debate."

sardonic (adjective) /sɑːˈdɒnɪk/
Meaning: It is often used to describe a person who expresses sarcasm, cynicism, or ridicule in a bitter or cutting way, that can be seen as cruel, derisive, or disdainful.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to sardonic?
Options: scornful; affable; warm; cordial
Answer: scornful
Synonyms: acerbic; acrid; bitter; caustic; derisive; jeering; malicious; sarcastic; satiric; sneering
Example: "She responded with a sardonic smile, knowing full well the irony of the situation."

skullduggery (noun) /skʌlˈdʌɡ(ə)ri/
Meaning: It describes actions that are considered underhanded or sneaky, and is often used to describe behavior that is illegal or unethical.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to skullduggery?
Options: trickery; honesty; integrity; straightforwardness
Answer: trickery
Synonyms: deceit; trickery; fraud; chicanery; deception; duplicity; cheating; slyness; guile
Example: "The company was accused of skullduggery in their business practices."

sophomoric (adjective) /ˌsɒfəˈmɒrɪk/
Meaning: Sophomoric is an adjective that is used to describe something that is characteristic of a sophomores, which refers to a student in the second year of college or high school.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to sophomoric?
Options: immature; mature; sophisticated; worldly
Answer: immature
Synonyms: adolescent; arrogant; babyish; brash; callow; childlike; foolish; immature; inexperienced; juvenile; naive; puerile
Example: "His sophomoric humor often left others unimpressed."

squalid (adjective) /ˈskwɒl ɪd/
Meaning: It can be used to refer to living conditions, living spaces, or even personal appearance.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to squalid?
Options: filthy; pristine; clean; luxurious
Answer: filthy
Synonyms: dank; filthy; grimy; grubby; messy; nasty; shabby; sleazy; unclean; unsanitary; vile
Example: "The abandoned house had a squalid interior, filled with trash and decay."

succinct (adjective) /səkˈsɪŋ(k)t/
Meaning: It signifies the ability to convey complex ideas, information, or thoughts in a few carefully chosen words, making the message or statement easily comprehensible.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to succinct?
Options: concise; verbose; wordy; lengthy
Answer: concise
Synonyms: blunt; compact; compendious; concise; condensed; gnomic; laconic; pithy; short; terse
Example: "The professor delivered a succinct lecture on quantum mechanics."

tempest (noun) /ˈtɛmpɪst/
Meaning: It can be described as a violent commotion or disturbance in the atmosphere, with strong gusts of wind that can cause significant damage to structures and trees.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to tempest?
Options: storm; calm; tranquility; peace
Answer: storm
Synonyms: commotion; cyclone; disturbance; gale; hurricane; storm; tornado; upheaval; uproar
Example: "The tempest raged outside, with howling winds and crashing thunder."

temporal (adjective) /ˈtɛmp(ə)rəl/
Meaning: It encompasses everything associated with the dimension of time, including events, experiences, and phenomena that occur within a specific timeframe.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to temporal?
Options: worldly; spiritual; eternal; everlasting
Answer: worldly
Synonyms: brief; ephemeral; fleeting; impermanent; momentary; passing; provisional; transitory
Example: "The temporal scope of the project was limited to just six months."

tenable (adjective) /ˈtɛn ə bəl/
Meaning: When an idea, argument, or position is deemed tenable, it means that it can withstand critical examination, scrutiny, or challenges without collapsing or losing its validity.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to tenable?
Options: defensible; untenable; indefensible; unjustifiable
Answer: defensible
Synonyms: acceptable; credible; defensible; justifiable; logical; maintainable; plausible; reasonable; sound; supportable; sustainable; viable
Example: "After careful analysis, the hypothesis put forward by the researcher was found to be tenable."

utopian (adjective) /juːˈtəʊpɪən/
Meaning: It is often used to refer to a perfect society or world that is free from flaws, conflicts, or inequality.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to utopian?
Options: idealistic; realistic; practical; achievable
Answer: idealistic
Synonyms: chimerical; fantasy; idealistic; optimistic; perfect; quixotic; romantic; unrealistic; visionary
Example: "The idea of a utopian society has fascinated thinkers throughout history."

vanity (noun) /ˈvanɪti/
Meaning: Vanity manifests as a fixation on one's physical appearance, achievements, or status, often driven by a deep-seated need for approval and attention.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to vanity?
Options: self-admiration; humility; modesty; selflessness
Answer: self-admiration
Synonyms: airs; arrogance; conceit; egotism; narcissism; pretension; pride; vainglory; vainness
Example: "Her vanity led her to spend hours perfecting her makeup."

vapid (adjective) /ˈvapɪd/
Meaning: When we characterize something as vapid, we emphasize its lack of interest or depth, suggesting that it fails to engage the senses or stimulate the intellect.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to vapid?
Options: dull; interesting; lively; spirited
Answer: dull
Synonyms: bland; boring; dull; flat; insipid; limp; monotonous; tame; tiresome; uninspiring; uninteresting
Example: "The movie was vapid and lacking in any real plot or character development."

veracity (noun) /veracity/
Meaning: It encompasses the idea of honesty and adherence to facts or reality.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to veracity?
Options: truthfulness; falsehood; dishonesty; deception
Answer: truthfulness
Synonyms: accuracy; authenticity; credibility; exactness; faithfulness; genuineness; honesty; integrity; reliability; trustworthiness; truthfulness; validity
Example: "We must verify the veracity of the data before drawing any conclusions."

vicarious (adjective) /vʌɪˈkɛːrɪəs/
Meaning: It suggests that one is able to understand or relate to something through the actions or emotions of another person.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to vicarious?
Options: surrogate; direct; primary; firsthand
Answer: surrogate
Synonyms: derivative; empathetic; empathic; imagined; indirect; mimetic; proxy; representational; secondary; substitute; substituted; surrogate
Example: "She experienced a sense of vicarious excitement through her favorite sports team."

vindicate (verb) /ˈvɪndɪkeɪt/
Meaning: When a person or entity is 'vindicated,' it means that they have been proven to be innocent, correct, or justified in their beliefs, actions, or decisions, often after facing accusations, skepticism, or condemnation.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to vindicate?
Options: exonerate; incriminate; blame; accuse
Answer: exonerate
Synonyms: absolve; acquit; discharge; disprove; exculpate; exonerate; justify; liberate; redeem
Example: "The new evidence presented in court helped vindicate the accused and prove their innocence."

voracious (adjective) /vəˈreɪʃəs/
Meaning: It can also describe someone or something that consumes a large amount of something quickly or in a way that is greedy or ravenous.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to voracious?
Options: ravenous; satiated; satisfied; indifferent
Answer: ravenous
Synonyms: avid; desirous; eager; edacious; enthusiastic; gluttonous; insatiable; insatiate; omnivorous; rapacious; ravenous; unappeasable
Example: "He is a voracious hobbyist and recently aquired a Penny Black for his stamp collection."

zealous (adjective) /ˈzɛləs/
Meaning: The word can also be used to describe something that is done with great energy or enthusiasm.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to zealous?
Options: fervent; apathetic; indifferent; unenthusiastic
Answer: fervent
Synonyms: ardent; avid; committed; dedicated; devoted; eager; earnest; fervent; keen; vehement
Example: "Her zealous pursuit of knowledge inspired everyone in the room."