English Synonyms for GRE 5 (Graduate Record Examination) Vocabulary Words – Online Quiz!

akin (adjective) /əˈkɪn/
Meaning: It implies a close association or connection, often indicating a familial, cultural, or conceptual similarity.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to akin?
Options: similar; unrelated; dissimilar; different
Answer: similar
Synonyms: alike; allied; cognate; comparable; corresponding; equivalent; homogeneous; kindred; parallel; related; resembling; similar
Example: "His approach to problem-solving is akin to my own."

amble (verb) /ˈæm bəl/
Meaning: When someone ambles, they move casually and unhurriedly, exhibiting a calm and easygoing demeanor.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to amble?
Options: stroll; rush; sprint; dash
Answer: stroll
Synonyms: dawdle; meander; mosey; perambulate; promenade; ramble; roam; saunter; stroll; traipse; walk; wander
Example: "Let's amble down the beach at sunset and find a quiet spot to watch the waves roll in."

anarchy (noun) /ˈanəki/
Meaning: Anarchy is generally defined as a state of society without government or law, or a political philosophy advocating such a state.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to anarchy?
Options: chaos; order; governance; harmony
Answer: chaos
Synonyms: chaos; disorder; disruption; insurrection; lawlessness; mayhem; pandemonium; rebellion; revolt; strife; tumult; turbulence
Example: "He believed in a society without government, a state of anarchy."

arduous (adjective) /ˈɑːdjʊəs/
Meaning: When we characterize something as arduous, we emphasize the physical or mental strain and the significant obstacles or hardships involved.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to arduous?
Options: demanding; easy; effortless; simple
Answer: demanding
Synonyms: backbreaking; challenging; demanding; exacting; exhausting; formidable; grueling; Herculean; laborious; onerous; punishing; rigorous
Example: "Counting ballots is an arduous task that requires great effort and concentration."

autonomous (adjective) /ɔːˈtɒnəməs/
Meaning: It refers to a situation where something is able to operate or function without the need for constant input or guidance from others.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to autonomous?
Options: independent; dependent; controlled; subordinate
Answer: independent
Synonyms: contained; determining; freestanding; governing; independent; regulating; reliant; sovereign; sufficient; sustaining; uncontrolled
Example: "The drone is capable of performing autonomous missions."

beseech (verb) /bɪˈsitʃ/
Meaning: It is a sincere and urgent request made to someone for help or something that one needs.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to beseech?
Options: implore; spurn; refuse; rebuff
Answer: implore
Synonyms: appeal; ask; conjure; entreat; importune; petition; plead; request; solicit; supplicate
Example: "I beseech you to think this through carefully."

bluster (verb) /ˈblʌstə/
Meaning: It is characterized by a show of force or noise, and is often accompanied by empty or exaggerated threats.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to bluster?
Options: boast; whisper; speak softly; mutter
Answer: boast
Synonyms: threaten; bully; intimidate; browbeat; swagger; roar; bellow; huff; puff; rant; rave
Example: "The politician likes to bluster during his speeches to appear strong."

cavalier (adjective) /ˌkavəˈlɪə/
Meaning: When we characterize an individual as cavalier, we suggest that they are often nonchalant, carefree, or even reckless in their approach, often disregarding the potential consequences of their actions.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to cavalier?
Options: dismissive; concerned; attentive; careful
Answer: dismissive
Synonyms: arrogant; careless; casual; disdainful; dismissive; domineering; haughty; imperious; indifferent; insensitive; insolent; insouciant
Example: "The young nobleman had a cavalier attitude towards his responsibilities."

circumlocution (noun) /circumlocution/
Meaning: It is a form of indirectness that can be used intentionally or unintentionally.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to circumlocution?
Options: verbosity; conciseness; brevity; terseness
Answer: verbosity
Synonyms: ambiguity; circumduction; discursiveness; equivocation; euphemism; garrulousness; indirectness; loquaciousness; periphrasis; prevarication; prolixity; rambling
Example: "His circumlocution made it hard to grasp his point."

complaisant (adjective) /kəmˈpleɪ sənt/
Meaning: A complaisant person is often seen as obliging and courteous, and may go out of their way to be helpful and cooperative.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to complaisant?
Options: obliging; unaccommodating; unhelpful; disagreeable
Answer: obliging
Synonyms: agreeable; amenable; cooperative; helpful; obliging; pliant; submissive; willing; yielding
Example: "Her complaisant nature made her easy to work with."

congenital (adjective) /kənˈdʒɛnɪtl/
Meaning: It can refer to physical or mental characteristics, including abnormalities or disorders that are inherited or acquired in the womb.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to congenital?
Options: inborn; acquired; external; postnatal
Answer: inborn
Synonyms: born; chronic; hereditary; inborn; incurable; inherent; inherited; innate; natural
Example: "He was born with a congenital heart defect that required surgery."

deduce (verb) /dɪˈdjuːs/
Meaning: When someone deduces something, they use a combination of observation, analysis, and intuition to make an educated guess about a particular situation or problem.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to deduce?
Options: infer; guess; speculate; assume
Answer: infer
Synonyms: ascertain; consider; deduct; derive; extrapolate; gather; glean; judge; reason; surmise
Example: "The detective will deduce the suspect’s motive by analyzing the evidence."

diffident (adjective) /ˈdɪfɪd(ə)nt/
Meaning: It can describe a person who is shy, self-doubting, or hesitant to speak up or assert themselves.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to diffident?
Options: shy; confident; assertive; bold
Answer: shy
Synonyms: constrained; meek; reluctant; reserved; shy; timid; unassertive; unassuming; withdrawn
Example: "She gave a diffident smile, unsure of how her joke would be received."

disconcerting (adjective) /ˌdɪskənˈsəːtɪŋ/
Meaning: When something is disconcerting, it has the effect of unsettling or perturbing individuals, leaving them feeling disoriented or unsure of how to react.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to disconcerting?
Options: unsettling; comforting; reassuring; calming
Answer: unsettling
Synonyms: bothersome; discomfiting; disturbing; perturbing; troubling; unnerving; upsetting; worrying
Example: "The disconcerting news of the company's bankruptcy left the employees in shock."

ecclesiastic (noun) /ɪˌkli ziˈæs tɪk/
Meaning: It specifically pertains to individuals who are ordained or authorized to perform religious rites, ceremonies, and functions within a specific faith or denomination.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to ecclesiastic?
Options: clergyman; layperson; secularist; non-cleric
Answer: clergyman
Synonyms: bishop; chaplain; clergy; cleric; deacon; minister; parson; pastor; preacher; priest; reverend; vicar
Example: "The medieval painting depicted an ecclesiastic deep in prayer."

enervate (verb) /ˈɛnəveɪt/
Meaning: It implies a state of physical or mental exhaustion and a loss of motivation or vigor.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to enervate?
Options: debilitate; invigorate; energize; fortify
Answer: debilitate
Synonyms: debilitate; drain; exhaust; fatigue; incapacitate; knacker; sap; tire; torpefy; weary
Example: "The prolonged illness began to enervate her vitality and spirit."

fiscal (adjective) /ˈfɪskl/
Meaning: It encompasses the financial policies, practices, and management of a government, organization, or individual, focusing on how money is earned, spent, and managed.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to fiscal?
Options: financial; bodily; challenging; annoying
Answer: financial
Synonyms: bookkeeping; budgetary; commercial; economic; monetary; pecuniary; revenue; tax
Example: "The government presented its fiscal budget for the year."

foible (noun) ˈfɔɪb(ə)l/
Meaning: The adjective "ersatz" is used to describe something that is a substitute or imitation, often intended to resemble or replace something else, but ultimately lacking in authenticity or genuine quality.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to foible?
Options: weakness; strength; virtue; asset
Answer: weakness
Synonyms: abnormality; blemish; defect; failing; fault; frailty; imperfection; limitation; shortcoming
Example: "One of his foibles is his tendency to always tap his foot when nervous."

gaudy (adjective) /ˈgɔ di/
Meaning: It refers to an overabundance of loud and bright colors, excessive ornamentation, or flamboyant elements that lack subtlety or refinement.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to gaudy?
Options: flashy; tasteful; understated; elegant
Answer: flashy
Synonyms: brash; flamboyant; flashy; garish; kitschy; loud; loudmouthed; obtrusive; ostentatious; showy; tacky; tasteless
Example: "The performer wore a gaudy costume covered in sequins and feathers, demanding attention on stage."

grandeur (noun) /ˈgræn dʒər/
Meaning: It encompasses a sense of greatness, splendor, and beauty that evokes awe and admiration.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to grandeur?
Options: majesty; plainness; simplicity; modesty
Answer: majesty
Synonyms: grandiosity; greatness; impressiveness; loftiness; magnificence; majesty; opulence; pomp; regality; splendor; stateliness; sublimity
Example: "The majestic castle stood atop the hill, exuding an air of grandeur."

heretic (noun) /ˈhɛrɪtɪk/
Meaning: This individual is often considered to be a threat to the authority and power of the religious or cultural institution, and their beliefs may be considered blasphemous or sacrilegious.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to heretic?
Options: dissenter; conformist; believer; orthodox
Answer: dissenter
Synonyms: agnostic; apostate; dissenter; dissident; freethinker; heresiarch; iconoclast; infidel; nonbeliever; nonconformist; renegade; schismatic
Example: "In medieval times, being labeled a heretic could lead to severe consequences."

imbue (verb) /ɪmˈbjuː/
Meaning: It often refers to the act of infusing something or someone with a particular emotion, attitude, or belief.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to imbue?
Options: infuse; drain; remove; deprive
Answer: infuse
Synonyms: inculcate; infuse; ingrain; instil; permeate; pervade; saturate; steep; suffuse
Example: "Stars imbue the night sky with a mystical glow, invoking a sense of wonder."

impinge (verb) /ɪmˈpɪn(d)ʒ/
Meaning: It can also refer to the act of coming into contact with something, especially in a way that causes interference or obstruction.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to impinge?
Options: encroach; avoid; respect; bypass
Answer: encroach
Synonyms: affect; disturb; encroach; impact; influence; infringe; intrude; invade; meddle; obtrude
Example: "His lack of discipline was starting to impinge on the quality of his work."

incipient (adjective) /ɪnˈsɪpɪənt/
Meaning: When a phenomenon, trend, or characteristic is described as incipient, it implies that it is just starting to emerge, form, or become noticeable.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to incipient?
Options: beginning; ending; final; concluding
Answer: beginning
Synonyms: beginning; budding; commencing; developing; embryonic; emerging; fledgling; inceptive; inchoate; initial; nascent; rudimentary
Example: "The incipient signs of spring could be seen in the blooming flowers."

inundate (verb) /ˈɪnʌndeɪt/
Meaning: For example, if a person is inundated with work assignments, they may feel overwhelmed and unable to complete everything in a timely manner.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to inundate?
Options: overwhelm; underwhelm; spare; trickle
Answer: overwhelm
Synonyms: bury; deluge; drown; engulf; flood; immerse; overflow; overrun; overspread; overwhelm; saturate; submerge
Example: "The surge of emails after the holiday break tends to inundate office workers."

jocular (adjective) /ˈdʒɒkjʊlə/
Meaning: Jocular refers to a type of humor or speech that is Jocular language is often characterized by puns, wordplay, and other forms of verbal playfulness.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to jocular?
Options: jesting; serious; solemn; morose
Answer: jesting
Synonyms: comical; funny; humorous; jesting; joking; jolly; jovial; playful; teasing; whimsical
Example: "The jocular nature of his uncle was contagious, making everyone laugh at the dinner table."

judicious (adjective) /dʒuːˈdɪʃəs/
Meaning: It is often used to describe a person who makes careful and well-informed decisions.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to judicious?
Options: wise; imprudent; foolish; reckless
Answer: wise
Synonyms: astute; considered; discerning; informed; prudent; sage; shrewd; sound; wise
Example: "Her judicious advice helped us navigate the complex situation."

lucrative (adjective) /ˈluːkrətɪv/
Meaning: When an opportunity, venture, or endeavor is referred to as lucrative, it means that it has the potential to yield significant earnings or returns on investment.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to lucrative?
Options: profitable; unprofitable; loss-making; unrewarding
Answer: profitable
Synonyms: advantageous; enriching; fruitful; gainful; moneymaking; paying; productive; profitable; remunerative; successful
Example: "The tech startup secured a lucrative funding round."

manifesto (noun) /ˌmænɪˈfɛstoʊ/
Meaning: The word comes from the Latin word "manifestus" which means "clear" or "obvious.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to manifesto?
Options: declaration; secret; concealment; silence
Answer: declaration
Synonyms: announcement; directive; goals; notice; platform; proclamation; pronouncement; publication
Example: "The political party released a manifesto outlining their key policies."

martyr (noun) /ˈmɑːtə/
Meaning: Martyrs are often regarded as heroes or symbols of resistance and unwavering commitment to their convictions.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to martyr?
Options: sacrifice; oppressor; antagonist; aggressor
Answer: sacrifice
Synonyms: crusader; defender; devotee; enthusiast; protagonist; sacrifice; scapegoat; sufferer; victim
Example: "The martyr died for their faith in a time of persecution."

mollify (verb) /ˈmɒlɪfʌɪ/
Meaning: When we use the term "mollify," we are emphasizing the effort to reduce or alleviate negative emotions or tensions in another person.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to mollify?
Options: appease; aggravate; provoke; enrage
Answer: appease
Synonyms: ameliorate; assuage; calm; comfort; conciliate; pacify; placate; propitiate; quell; soothe
Example: "He issued a public apology to mollify the hostile media."

motley (adjective) /ˈmɒtli/
Meaning: When a group, collection, or assembly is described as motley, it implies that it is made up of various disparate components, often with distinct colors, styles, or characteristics.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to motley?
Options: assorted; uniform; identical; monochrome
Answer: assorted
Synonyms: assorted; disparate; dissimilar; heterogeneous; mingled; miscellaneous; mixed; ragtag
Example: "The circus troupe consisted of a motley crew of acrobats, clowns, and jugglers."

myopic (adjective) /mʌɪˈɒpɪk/
Meaning: It can be used to describe a person who is short-sighted or unable to see the long-term implications of their actions or decisions.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to myopic?
Options: shortsighted; far-sighted; visionary; discerning
Answer: shortsighted
Synonyms: blind; blinkered; insular; limited; narrow; nearsighted; parochial; provincial; shortsighted; unadventurous; uncreative; unimaginative
Example: "He was known for his myopic and short-sighted approach to problems."

panoply (noun) /ˈpanəpli/
Meaning: It is typically associated with an array of elaborate and decorative items, such as clothing, armor, weapons, or other symbolic elements that convey prestige, authority, or a sense of splendor.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to panoply?
Options: array; lack; dearth; absence
Answer: array
Synonyms: arrangement; array; demonstration; exhibit; pageant; range; series; spread; variety
Example: "Despite a panoply of natural remedies, the doctor prescribed an expensive drug with known side effects."

panorama (noun) /ˌpanəˈrɑːmə/
Meaning: The word panorama is derived from the Greek words "pan" meaning all and "horama" meaning view, thus panorama refers to a complete view of an area.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to panorama?
Options: vista; interior; enclosure; indoors
Answer: vista
Synonyms: landscape; lookout; outlook; perspective; scene; scenery; scope; spectacle; view; vista
Example: "The breathtaking panorama of the mountains stretched out before us."

penurious (adjective) /ˌpɛnˈjuriəs/
Meaning: When someone or a situation is described as penurious, it signifies a state of profound economic hardship and financial deprivation, often making it difficult or impossible to meet even the most basic needs.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to penurious?
Options: poor; wealthy; affluent; rich
Answer: poor
Synonyms: beggarly; frugal; miserly; niggardly; parsimonious; penniless; skimping; stingy; tightfisted
Example: "The penurious family struggled to put food on the table every day."

plaintiff (noun) /ˈpleɪntɪf/
Meaning: The plaintiff initiates the legal proceedings by filing a complaint or petition, which outlines the claims and allegations against the defendant.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to plaintiff?
Options: accuser; defendant; respondent; accused
Answer: accuser
Synonyms: accuser; appellant; applicant; challenger; claimant; complainant; litigant; petitioner; prosecutor; pursuer; suer; suitor
Example: "The plaintiff waited anxiously, her files stacked high with evidence and claims."

precocious (adjective) /prɪˈkəʊʃəs/
Meaning: It can be used to describe a child who is especially advanced or talented in a particular area, or who behaves in a mature or responsible way at an age when most children do not.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to precocious?
Options: advanced; delayed; underdeveloped; immature
Answer: advanced
Synonyms: advanced; ahead; bright; clever; gifted; intelligent; mature; premature; smart; talented
Example: "He sold his first software program at the precocious age of twelve."

profligate (adjective) /ˈprɒflɪɡət/
Meaning: It can also be used to describe a person who engages in morally or socially unacceptable behavior, such as excessive drinking, gambling, or promiscuity.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to profligate?
Options: wasteful; thrifty; economical; frugal
Answer: wasteful
Synonyms: decadent; dissipated; dissolute; extravagant; immoral; improvident; imprudent; lavish; licentious; prodigal; reckless; spendthrift
Example: "He was known for his profligate spending habits and lavish lifestyle."

promulgate (verb) /ˈprɒm(ə)lɡeɪt/
Meaning: It implies a process of disseminating information or instructions, often through formal channels of communication, such as a government agency or a professional organization.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to promulgate?
Options: announce; conceal; hide; suppress
Answer: announce
Synonyms: advertise; broadcast; circulate; communicate; declare; notify; proclaim; promote
Example: "The government decided to promulgate the new laws."

proverb (noun) /ˈprɒv ərb/
Meaning: Proverbs are concise expressions that encapsulate common knowledge or shared experiences in a memorable and concise manner.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to proverb?
Options: adage; fabrication; falsehood; lie
Answer: adage
Synonyms: adage; aphorism; axiom; byword; dictum; expression; maxim; motto; phrase; precept; saw; saying
Example: "The wise elder shared a proverb about patience and its rewards."

prurient (adjective) /ˈprʊriənt/
Meaning: When a person is described as prurient, it means that they have a strong desire or curiosity about sexual subjects, often in a way that is considered inappropriate or offensive.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to prurient?
Options: lewd; pure; chaste; modest
Answer: lewd
Synonyms: erotic; indecent; lascivious; lewd; ribald; risqué; salacious; suggestive; titillating
Example: "His prurient curiosity led him to explore explicit content online."

remuneration (noun) /rɪˌmyu nəˈreɪ ʃən/
Meaning: It is a noun that encompasses the financial or non-financial rewards provided to individuals as a result of their contributions or efforts.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to remuneration?
Options: payment; nonpayment; forfeiture; penalty
Answer: payment
Synonyms: compensation; earnings; emolument; fee; honorarium; income; payment; recompense; reward; salary; stipend; wages
Example: "She negotiated a higher remuneration for her new position."

renaissance (noun) /rɪˈneɪs(ə)ns/
Meaning: It signifies a resurgence of interest and enthusiasm in a field or concept that may have been dormant or overlooked for a period of time.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to renaissance?
Options: revival; decline; downfall; stagnation
Answer: revival
Synonyms: comeback; reappearance; reawakening; rebirth; reemergence; regeneration; rejuvenation; renewal; resurgence; resurrection; resuscitation; revitalization
Example: "The Internet has brought about a renaissance in entrepreneurialism."

savoir-faire (noun) /ˌsavwɑː ˈfɛː/
Meaning: It is a French phrase that translates to "knowing how to do.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to savoir-faire?
Options: tact; awkwardness; ineptitude; clumsiness
Answer: tact
Synonyms: adroitness; charm; courtesy; diplomacy; discretion; finesse; grace; sensitivity; tact; urbanity
Example: "Her savoir-faire in social settings is impressive."

soliloquy (noun) /səˈlɪləkwi/
Meaning: It is a literary device typically used in drama and plays, where it serves as a way to reveal a character's innermost thoughts, motivations, and feelings.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to soliloquy?
Options: monologue; dialogue; conversation; discussion
Answer: monologue
Synonyms: address; aside; dialogue; inner; internal; introspection; monologue; oration; reflection; speech; talk
Example: "In the soliloquy, the protagonist revealed their innermost fears and desires."

transcend (verb) /trɑːnˈsɛnd/
Meaning: It implies a sense of moving beyond one's current state or situation, and suggests that the thing in question has been surpassed or exceeded.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to transcend?
Options: surpass; succumb; yield; conform
Answer: surpass
Synonyms: eclipse; exceed; outclass; outmatch; outshine; outstrip; overcome; surpass; transform
Example: "The beauty of art can transcend language barriers."

travesty (noun) /ˈtravɪsti/
Meaning: It can also refer to a terrible or shocking event, or something that is a complete failure or disappointment.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to travesty?
Options: mockery; fairness; justice; propriety
Answer: mockery
Synonyms: abomination; affront; atrocity; disaster; farce; injustice; insult; mockery; perversion; sham
Example: "The decision to cut funding for education is a travesty."

trope (noun) /trəʊp/
Meaning: Tropes are used to add depth and layers of meaning to language, making it more vivid and imaginative.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to trope?
Options: motif; plainness; literalism; straightforwardness
Answer: motif
Synonyms: analogy; cliché; metaphor; platitude; proverb; saying; simile; stereotype; symbol; truism
Example: "He used the trope of the hero's journey in his screenplay."

verboten (adjective) /vəːˈbəʊt(ə)n/
Meaning: The adjective 'verboten' is a term borrowed from the German language that has found its way into English.
Find the synonym: Which option is closest in meaning to verboten?
Options: forbidden; allowed; permitted; sanctioned
Answer: forbidden
Synonyms: banned; barred; disallowed; forbidden; illegal; illicit; impermissible; outlawed; prohibited; proscribed; restricted; taboo
Example: "Entering the restricted area is strictly verboten for unauthorized personnel."