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A strong vocabulary is one of the most significant predictors of GRE (Graduate Record Examination) success. Your vocabulary skills are tested across reading comprehension, text completion, and sentence equivalence questions, which collectively account for over 50% of your verbal score.
Learning these words is about understanding context, variation, and word usage, which are critical for interpreting complex texts and selecting the most accurate answers. This article aims to provide a carefully curated GRE vocabulary list, categorized by difficulty, along with proven study strategies to help you ace it effectively.
Table of Contents
- GRE Vocabulary List: Essential Words You Must Know
- Sample Exercise: Contextual Usage of GRE Vocabulary
- How to Effectively Learn GRE Vocabulary?
- Common Mistakes to Avoid While Learning GRE Vocabulary
- Expert Tips & Tricks to Become Proficient in GRE Vocabulary
- How Can upGrad Help You Excel in GRE Vocabulary?
- Important Resources For PTE/SAT/ACT Exam
GRE Vocabulary List: Essential Words You Must Know
The GRE Verbal Reasoning section is notorious for its vocabulary-heavy questions. It requires you to understand words in context and apply them to various sentence structures.
The ability to quickly identify the meaning of unfamiliar words is critical, especially for answering reading comprehension and text completion questions. Moreover, knowing how to use and recognize words in context can significantly affect your overall score among GRE sections, which is why a strategic approach to GRE vocabulary is essential.
Let's break down the essential GRE vocabulary list, carefully designed to cover key words and concepts regularly appearing on the test.
Easy-Level Vocabulary
At the easy level, the goal is to build a solid foundation for the GRE syllabus. These words might appear in passages that aren't overly complex, but having a good grasp of them is essential.
In fact, words at this level are often used in both sentence completion and reading comprehension questions.
Here is the relevant GRE vocabulary list and examples:
Word | Definition | Example Sentence |
Benevolent | Kind, charitable | Her benevolent attitude made her a favorite among colleagues. |
Abundant | Plentiful, more than enough | The farm produced an abundant harvest this year. |
Adept | Skilled, proficient | He is adept at solving challenging puzzles. |
Candid | Honest, straightforward | She gave a candid account of the situation. |
Eloquent | Fluent and persuasive in speech | The speaker's eloquent speech moved the entire audience. |
Amiable | Friendly, pleasant | His amiable personality made him well-liked at work. |
Jovial | Cheerful, happy | The jovial man cheered up everyone in the room. |
Stalwart | Loyal, reliable | A stalwart supporter of the campaign, she never missed a meeting. |
Practice Sets:
- Sentence Completion:
"The professor's _______ response made it clear that she was not pleased with the results."
(A) candid, (B) reserved, (C) hesitant, (D) tactful
(Answer: A) candid - Fill in the blank:
"She had an _______ personality that made her an ideal candidate for the leadership position."
(A) amiable, (B) aloof, (C) indifferent, (D) reserved
(Answer: A) amiable - Multiple Choice:
Which of the following words is closest in meaning to "abundant"?
(A) scarce, (B) plentiful, (C) limited, (D) deficient
(Answer: B) plentiful - Synonym Practice:
Choose the word closest in meaning to "eloquent."
(A) vague, (B) silent, (C) articulate, (D) confused
(Answer: C) articulate - Contextual Guessing:
"His _______ behavior during the meeting showed his strong commitment to the cause."
(A) benevolent, (B) indifferent, (C) apathetic, (D) jovial
(Answer: A) benevolent
Now, let’s look at intermediate-level words. These are slightly more complex but still very manageable with the right approach.
Intermediate-Level Vocabulary
Intermediate-level words are crucial for bridging the gap between foundational vocabulary and more advanced terms. These words often appear in complex GRE essays and test your ability to understand nuances in context.
They can be used in various contexts, from academic discussions to everyday conversation.
Here is the relevant GRE vocabulary list and examples:
Word | Definition | Example Sentence |
Incessant | Continuing without interruption | The incessant noise from the construction site was distracting. |
Voracious | Eager, having a strong appetite for something | He had a voracious appetite for reading historical novels. |
Perplexed | Confused, uncertain | She was perplexed by the professor's complicated explanation. |
Convoluted | Extremely complex, intricate | The argument was so convoluted that no one understood it. |
Belligerent | Hostile, aggressive | His belligerent attitude towards his colleagues caused tension. |
Pragmatic | Practical, dealing with things sensibly | She offered a pragmatic solution to the problem. |
Meticulous | Showing great attention to detail | His meticulous notes were perfect for the research project. |
Innocuous | Harmless, not likely to provoke strong reactions | The joke seemed innocuous, but it offended a few people. |
Practice Sets:
- Sentence Completion:
"The director's _______ response to the proposal confused the team."
(A) pragmatic, (B) belligerent, (C) innocuous, (D) convoluted
(Answer: D) convoluted - Fill in the blank:
"The student’s _______ attitude made it difficult for her to collaborate with the group."
(A) belligerent, (B) pragmatic, (C) innocuous, (D) voracious
(Answer: A) belligerent - Multiple Choice:
Which word is closest in meaning to "voracious"?
(A) hungry, (B) indifferent, (C) patient, (D) relaxed
(Answer: A) hungry - Contextual Guessing:
"Despite his _______ nature, he was always the first to volunteer for difficult tasks."
(A) meek, (B) belligerent, (C) pragmatic, (D) meticulous
(Answer: C) pragmatic - Antonym Practice:
Which word is the opposite of "meticulous"?
(A) careful, (B) hasty, (C) precise, (D) deliberate
(Answer: B) hasty
Also Read: Send GRE Scores: How to Send GRE Scores to Universities
Once you feel confident with intermediate-level vocabulary, it's time to tackle the advanced-level words that will test your verbal reasoning ability.
Advanced-Level Vocabulary
Advanced vocabulary tests not only your ability to recognize words but also your capacity to understand subtle meanings and complex sentence structures. This significantly improves your GRE verbal scores.
Many GRE questions with advanced words require logical reasoning and contextual understanding to derive meaning.
Here is the relevant GRE vocabulary list and examples:
Word | Definition | Example Sentence |
Abscond | To leave hurriedly and secretly | The thief absconded with the jewels before the police arrived. |
Enervate | To weaken or drain energy | The long day at work left him feeling enervated and exhausted. |
Obfuscate | To confuse or make unclear | The politician’s speech was designed to obfuscate the true issue. |
Sycophant | A person who excessively flatters others | He surrounded himself with sycophants to maintain his power. |
Quixotic | Extremely idealistic, unrealistic | His quixotic dream of solving world hunger in a year was met with skepticism. |
Ubiquitous | Present or found everywhere | Smartphones have become ubiquitous, seen everywhere you go. |
Assiduous | Showing great care and persistence | The assiduous student worked late into the night to perfect her research paper. |
Recalcitrant | Resistant to authority or control | The recalcitrant employee refused to comply with the new policies. |
Practice Sets:
- Sentence Completion:
"Her _______ efforts to complete the project on time paid off, and she finished early."
(A) assiduous, (B) quixotic, (C) recalcitrant, (D) sycophantic
(Answer: A) assiduous - Fill in the blank:
"The leader's _______ attitude towards criticism led to his downfall."
(A) quixotic, (B) sycophantic, (C) recalcitrant, (D) enervated
(Answer: C) recalcitrant - Multiple Choice:
Which word is closest in meaning to "enervate"?
(A) invigorate, (B) tire, (C) energize, (D) uplift
(Answer: B) tire - Contextual Guessing:
"His _______ idealism was admirable, but ultimately impractical in solving the complex issue."
(A) obfuscating, (B) quixotic, (C) assiduous, (D) ubiquitous
(Answer: B) quixotic - Synonym Practice:
Which word is a synonym of "obfuscate"?
(A) clarify, (B) obscure, (C) simplify, (D) elucidate
(Answer: B) obscure
It's time to examine how understanding synonyms and antonyms can improve your performance, especially in sentence completion questions.
Synonyms and Antonyms Practice
Words can have similar meanings, but their usage in context may vary. Recognizing synonyms lets you quickly identify equivalent terms in reading comprehension passages and sentence completion questions.
Meanwhile, knowing antonyms helps you pinpoint opposite meanings, which is particularly useful in questions requiring choosing the most fitting word based on its contrast to another word.
Here is the relevant GRE vocabulary list and examples:
Word | Synonym(s) | Antonym(s) |
Benign | Harmless, Gentle | Malignant, Harmful |
Inevitable | Unavoidable, Certain | Avoidable, Preventable |
Pragmatic | Practical, Sensible | Idealistic, Impractical |
Diminish | Decrease, Lessen | Increase, Grow |
Magnanimous | Generous, Kind | Stingy, Selfish |
Abscond | Flee, Escape | Remain, Stay |
Eloquent | Articulate, Fluent | Inarticulate, Mumbled |
Apathy | Indifference, Disinterest | Passion, Enthusiasm |
Practice Sets:
- Synonym Selection:
Which of the following is closest in meaning to "benign"?
(A) Harmful, (B) Gentle, (C) Malignant, (D) Dangerous
(Answer: B) Gentle - Antonym Identification:
Which word is the opposite of "inevitable"?
(A) Certain, (B) Unavoidable, (C) Preventable, (D) Inevitable
(Answer: C) Preventable - Sentence Completion:
"His _______ nature made him a popular leader, always willing to help those in need."
(A) Magnanimous, (B) Stingy, (C) Selfish, (D) Hostile
(Answer: A) Magnanimous - Synonym Practice:
What is a synonym for "pragmatic"?
(A) Practical, (B) Idealistic, (C) Theoretical, (D) Utopian
(Answer: A) Practical - Fill in the Blank:
"The storm will likely _______ by tomorrow, but until then, we’ll have to stay inside."
(A) Increase, (B) Diminish, (C) Grow, (D) Multiply
(Answer: B) Diminish
Also Read: GRE Exam Dates 2025: Secure Your Slot Now!
Next, let's explore the GRE vocabulary list of some commonly appearing words.
Words Commonly Appearing in GRE Verbal Section
Certain words appear more frequently in the GRE, especially in the reading comprehension and verbal reasoning sections. Focusing on these high-yield vocabulary words can maximize your efficiency and increase your chances of success.
Knowing these words also helps build familiarity with the test, reducing test anxiety, and allowing you to recognize question patterns.
Here is the relevant GRE vocabulary list and examples:
Word | Definition | Example Sentence |
Fervent | Passionate, intense | The fervent speaker inspired the crowd with his energetic words. |
Ambivalent | Having mixed feelings | She was ambivalent about moving to a new city, torn between opportunity and nostalgia. |
Aesthetic | Related to beauty or artistic taste | The gallery’s aesthetic appeal was undeniable, with its clean lines and vibrant colors. |
Prolific | Producing large quantities of work | The prolific writer published over 20 novels during his career. |
Enigmatic | Mysterious, difficult to understand | Her enigmatic smile left everyone wondering what she was really thinking. |
Altruistic | Unselfishly concerned for others | His altruistic efforts to feed the homeless were well-known in the community. |
Nefarious | Wicked, evil | The villain's nefarious plans were eventually thwarted by the hero. |
Obsolete | Outdated, no longer in use | The old computer system became obsolete with the introduction of modern technology. |
Practice Sets:
- Sentence Completion:
"The company was criticized for its _______ practices that exploited workers."
(A) altruistic, (B) nefarious, (C) benevolent, (D) ethical
(Answer: B) nefarious - Fill in the Blank:
"The author was known for his _______ writing, producing several novels each year."
(A) ambivalent, (B) aesthetic, (C) prolific, (D) altruistic
(Answer: C) prolific - Synonym Selection:
Which word is closest in meaning to "enigmatic"?
(A) Clear, (B) Mysterious, (C) Obvious, (D) Transparent
(Answer: B) Mysterious - Contextual Guessing:
"His _______ behavior during the meeting made him appear self-centered and uncooperative."
(A) altruistic, (B) ambivalent, (C) nefarious, (D) aesthetic
(Answer: C) nefarious - Antonym Practice:
Which word is the opposite of "prolific"?
(A) Productive, (B) Idle, (C) Active, (D) Busy
(Answer: B) Idle
With these commonly appearing words in hand, the next step is to tackle sentence completion, a key question type where GRE vocabulary skills truly shine.
GRE Vocabulary in Sentence Completion
Sentence completion questions test your ability to choose words that best fit a sentence based on context. The more vocabulary words you master, the faster and more accurately you can fill in the blanks.
These questions assess your vocabulary and ability to interpret meaning from a broader context, as the correct word must make sense within the sentence's structure and the passage's broader ideas.
Here is the relevant GRE vocabulary list and examples:
Word | Definition | Example Sentence |
Flabbergasted | Extremely surprised or shocked | He was flabbergasted when he received the unexpected award. |
Meticulous | Showing great attention to detail | Her meticulous planning ensured the event went off without a hitch. |
Ubiquitous | Present everywhere, found everywhere | The smartphone has become ubiquitous, seen in every corner of the world. |
Sporadic | Occurring at irregular intervals | The rain was sporadic, coming in short bursts throughout the afternoon. |
Hastily | Done quickly and without careful thought | She hastily packed her bags before running to the airport. |
Subtle | Delicate, not obvious | The artist used subtle colors to create a soothing mood in the painting. |
Loquacious | Talkative, chatty | The loquacious student easily made friends in every class. |
Inevitable | Certain to happen, unavoidable | The storm was inevitable, as the weather forecasts had predicted it days in advance. |
Practice Sets:
- Sentence Completion:
"The professor gave a _______ explanation of the theory, making it easier for students to understand."
(A) flabbergasted, (B) meticulous, (C) subtle, (D) hasty
(Answer: B) meticulous - Fill in the Blank:
"The decision was _______ after the team's performance in the last game."
(A) inevitable, (B) sporadic, (C) loquacious, (D) subtle
(Answer: A) inevitable - Synonym Practice:
Choose the word that best matches "loquacious."
(A) Silent, (B) Chatty, (C) Reserved, (D) Shy
(Answer: B) Chatty - Contextual Guessing:
"Her _______ comments during the meeting showed her careful consideration of every detail."
(A) hastily, (B) meticulous, (C) ubiquitous, (D) sporadic
(Answer: B) meticulous - Multiple Choice:
Which of the following words is closest in meaning to "ubiquitous"?
(A) Rare, (B) Everywhere, (C) Unnoticed, (D) Occasional
(Answer: B) Everywhere
It’s also important to understand word structures, including roots, prefixes, and suffixes, to decipher unfamiliar words on the test.
Root Words, Prefixes, and Suffixes
Understanding root words, prefixes, and suffixes is beneficial when you encounter complex words during reading comprehension passages or sentence completion questions.
This strategy allows you to break down complex terms into more manageable parts, making it easier to infer meanings and save time during the test.
Here is the relevant GRE vocabulary list and examples:
Root/Prefix/Suffix | Meaning | Example Word | Example Sentence |
Bene- | Good, well | Beneficial, Benevolent | Her benevolent nature made her a beloved leader. |
Pre- | Before | Predict, Prehistoric | The prediction was accurate as the storm hit earlier than expected. |
-ology | Study of | Biology, Sociology | His interest in biology led him to pursue a career in medicine. |
-phobia | Fear of | Claustrophobia, Arachnophobia | She suffers from arachnophobia, avoiding places with spiders. |
-ic | Pertaining to | Historic, Organic | The historic landmark was preserved for future generations. |
Sub- | Under, below | Subterranean, Subpar | The subterranean caves were a popular tourist attraction. |
-able | Capable of | Predictable, Valuable | His predictions were predictable, based on years of data analysis. |
Re- | Again | Reevaluate, Rewind | He needed to reevaluate his decision after receiving new information. |
Practice Sets:
- Root Word Identification:
What does the prefix "bene-" mean?
(A) Bad, (B) Good, (C) Before, (D) After
(Answer: B) Good - Fill in the Blank:
"Her _______ nature led her to help the community every chance she got."
(A) benevolent, (B) -phobia, (C) subterranean, (D) sub-
(Answer: A) benevolent - Sentence Completion:
"He had a deep understanding of _______ studies, focusing on the behavior of societies."
(A) -ology, (B) -ic, (C) sub-, (D) re-
(Answer: A) -ology - Contextual Guessing:
"The _______ behavior was evident when he visited the caves deep underground."
(A) subterranean, (B) -phobia, (C) predictable, (D) beneficial
(Answer: A) subterranean - Antonym Practice:
Which word is the opposite of "predictable"?
(A) Beneficial, (B) Subterranean, (C) Unpredictable, (D) Reevaluate
(Answer: C) Unpredictable
Now that you’ve sharpened your vocabulary skills, it’s essential to tackle confusing word pairs, which are often tricky and test your precision.
Confusing Word Pairs
The GRE frequently tests your ability to distinguish between words that are similar in meaning but subtly different in use. These word pairs are essential for sentence completion and reading comprehension questions focusing on precision.
A solid understanding of these confusing pairs will ensure you're not tricked by nuanced language during the test.
Here is the relevant GRE vocabulary list and examples:
Word 1 | Word 2 | Key Difference | Example Sentence |
Affect | Effect |
|
|
Complement | Compliment |
|
|
Elicit | Illicit |
|
|
Discreet | Discrete |
|
|
Imply | Infer |
|
|
Eminent | Imminent |
|
|
Stationary | Stationery |
|
|
Accept | Except |
|
|
Practice Sets:
- Fill in the Blank:
"The doctor tried to _______ a response from the patient about his symptoms."
(A) Elicit, (B) Illicit, (C) Affect, (D) Effect
(Answer: A) Elicit - Sentence Completion:
"The team's _______ performance led them to win the competition."
(A) Complement, (B) Compliment, (C) Affect, (D) Effect
(Answer: A) Complement - Antonym Practice:
What is the opposite of "discreet"?
(A) Tactful, (B) Careful, (C) Outspoken, (D) Secretive
(Answer: C) Outspoken - Synonym Selection:
Which word is closest in meaning to "imminent"?
(A) Far-off, (B) Likely, (C) Immediate, (D) Prolonged
(Answer: C) Immediate - Contextual Guessing:
"The _______ behavior during the meeting made it difficult to trust his opinions."
(A) discrete, (B) eminent, (C) illicit, (D) discreet
(Answer: D) Discreet
Also Read: GRE Exam Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Next, let’s explore some popular idioms and phrases essential for reading comprehension.
Idioms and Phrases for GRE
Idiomatic expressions are commonly used in academic and literary texts. Although idioms seem like everyday expressions, they can sometimes be tricky if you're unfamiliar with their meanings.
Recognizing common GRE idioms and phrases can help you better interpret passages and answer questions accurately.
Here is the relevant GRE vocabulary list and examples:
Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
A double-edged sword | Something that has both positive and negative consequences | The new policy was a double-edged sword, improving efficiency but cutting jobs. |
Bite the bullet | To do something unpleasant or difficult | After procrastinating for weeks, he finally had to bite the bullet and study for the GRE. |
Burn the midnight oil | To work late into the night | She had to burn the midnight oil to finish the project by the deadline. |
In the long run | Over a long period of time | Although costly now, the investment will pay off in the long run. |
A blessing in disguise | Something that seems bad but is actually good | Losing the job was a blessing in disguise, leading him to a better opportunity. |
Break the ice | To initiate conversation or ease tension | His funny joke helped break the ice during the awkward meeting. |
Hit the nail on the head | To describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem | She hit the nail on the head when she identified the source of the issue. |
Let the cat out of the bag | To reveal a secret, often by mistake | He accidentally let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party. |
Practice Sets:
- Sentence Completion:
"The manager's _______ comment broke the ice and got the team talking about the new project."
(A) Blessing in disguise, (B) Break the ice, (C) Bite the bullet, (D) In the long run
(Answer: B) Break the ice - Fill in the Blank:
"His plan was a _______ because while it increased profits, it also led to job losses."
(A) Blessing in disguise, (B) Double-edged sword, (C) Burn the midnight oil, (D) Hit the nail on the head
(Answer: B) Double-edged sword - Multiple Choice:
Which idiom means to work hard, especially late at night?
(A) Break the ice, (B) Bite the bullet, (C) Burn the midnight oil, (D) Let the cat out of the bag
(Answer: C) Burn the midnight oil - Contextual Guessing:
"Her promotion was a _______ because it led her to a new job she loved but took her away from her old friends."
(A) Double-edged sword, (B) Let the cat out of the bag, (C) A blessing in disguise, (D) In the long run
(Answer: C) A blessing in disguise - Synonym Practice:
Which idiom best matches the meaning of "to reveal a secret"?
(A) Let the cat out of the bag, (B) Hit the nail on the head, (C) Bite the bullet, (D) Burn the midnight oil
(Answer: A) Let the cat out of the bag
The final area to explore is understanding contextual vocabulary.
Contextual Vocabulary in Reading Comprehension
Words that seem unfamiliar at first glance can often be understood through the context provided in the passage. It's not enough to just memorize definitions; you need to know how words are used in specific contexts.
Contextual clues often provide hints about the passage's tone, subject, and direction, which can help you infer the meaning of challenging vocabulary.
Here is the relevant GRE vocabulary list and examples:
Word | Definition | Example Sentence |
Skeptical | Doubtful or uncertain | The scientist was skeptical of the new findings and requested more data. |
Reticent | Reserved, unwilling to speak | She was reticent during the meeting, preferring to listen rather than speak. |
Impartial | Neutral, not influenced by personal feelings | The judge remained impartial during the trial, making decisions based on evidence. |
Pragmatic | Practical, based on facts rather than ideals | His pragmatic approach to solving problems made him an effective manager. |
Meticulous | Showing great attention to detail | The artist’s meticulous work on the sculpture was evident in every curve and angle. |
Ambiguous | Unclear, open to multiple interpretations | The ambiguous message from the company left customers confused about the policy changes. |
Comprehensive | Complete and thorough | The report provided a comprehensive analysis of the market trends over the last year. |
Dynamic | Constantly changing, active | The dynamic nature of the job kept him engaged and challenged every day. |
Practice Sets:
- Sentence Completion:
"The author’s _______ style made it difficult to understand the main idea of the passage."
(A) ambiguous, (B) impartial, (C) reticent, (D) meticulous
(Answer: A) ambiguous - Fill in the Blank:
"The team’s _______ approach to solving the crisis helped them come up with a practical solution quickly."
(A) skeptical, (B) pragmatic, (C) dynamic, (D) impartial
(Answer: B) pragmatic - Multiple Choice:
Which word would best describe a judge who doesn’t let personal opinions influence their decisions?
(A) Skeptical, (B) Impartial, (C) Reticent, (D) Meticulous
(Answer: B) Impartial - Contextual Guessing:
"The scientist’s _______ research made him a respected figure in the field."
(A) reticent, (B) meticulous, (C) dynamic, (D) ambiguous
(Answer: B) meticulous - Synonym Practice:
Which word means "complete and thorough"?
(A) Dynamic, (B) Skeptical, (C) Comprehensive, (D) Impartial
(Answer: C) Comprehensive
Get a head start on your GRE preparation! Download upGrad’s Free GRE Syllabus PDF now and plan your study schedule with a comprehensive guide to all test sections.
Now, let's see how these words appear in context, giving you a hands-on approach to applying your vocabulary knowledge to real GRE scenarios!
Sample Exercise: Contextual Usage of GRE Vocabulary
Recognizing a word's meaning is essential, but understanding how to use it in the right situation will set you apart. This exercise will help you practice using vocabulary in real-world contexts, which is precisely how words are tested in the GRE.
Below, you’ll find a short GRE essay with blanks. Your task is to fill in the blanks with the most appropriate words from the GRE vocabulary list provided. The words you'll be choosing from are ones that regularly appear in GRE passages.
Sample Exercise:
Here’s a short passage with blanks. Read it carefully, and choose the word that best fits the meaning of each blank based on the passage's context.
After months of intense debate, the company’s leadership team finally reached a _______ decision on the new marketing strategy. Despite the _______ views from some senior executives, the final choice was made with a strong belief in its potential to _______ the company’s position in the market. However, the team remained _______ about the long-term effectiveness of the plan, acknowledging that there were still significant risks involved.
Word List:
- A) Perplexed
- B) Convoluted
- C) Unanimous
- D) Ambivalent
- E) Fortify
- F) Diminish
- G) Indifferent
- H) Candid
Answers and Explanations:
- First Blank:
- Correct Answer: C) Unanimous
The word “unanimous” means a decision made with complete agreement from all parties, which fits the context of the leadership team reaching a final decision after much debate. “Unanimous” suggests that everyone agreed on the decision despite the discussions.
- Correct Answer: C) Unanimous
- Second Blank:
- Correct Answer: D) Ambivalent
“Ambivalent” means having mixed feelings or being unsure about something. The sentence indicates that some executives had opposing views, suggesting a state of indecision or uncertainty.
- Correct Answer: D) Ambivalent
- Third Blank:
- Correct Answer: E) Fortify
Explanation: “Fortify” means to strengthen or enhance something. The decision aims to strengthen the company’s market position, which fits perfectly in the passage's context.
- Correct Answer: E) Fortify
- Fourth Blank:
- Correct Answer: A) Perplexed
“Perplexed” means confused or uncertain. The team remains unsure about the long-term effectiveness of the plan, indicating that despite the decision being made, they still have doubts about its success.
- Correct Answer: A) Perplexed
There you go!
Here are some quick tips for you to ace this section effectively:
- Focus on Context: Pay close attention to the surrounding text. The correct answer should make the most sense within the context of the entire sentence or passage.
- Use Word Meanings Flexibly: Some words can have different meanings depending on context. Consider how each word fits the tone and direction of the passage.
- Eliminate Incorrect Options: Sometimes, one or more options won’t make sense at all in the sentence. Eliminating those quickly can help you zero in on the correct answer.
- Trust Your Instincts: If you're unsure, choose the word that feels most natural in the context. Often, the right word will "sound right."
By regularly practicing these exercises, you’ll develop a sharper instinct for spotting the correct vocabulary in the GRE, helping you feel more confident and prepared when test day arrives.
Also Read: Master GRE AWA Writing With These Sample Essays
Now, let’s focus on how to learn and retain these words for long-term success effectively.
How to Effectively Learn GRE Vocabulary?
Acing vocabulary isn’t just about memorizing a long GRE vocabulary list or some study materials; it's about consistently practicing and integrating it into your everyday language. Simply put, it’s not enough to know what a word means; you need to be able to use it confidently when required.
Here are some of the most engaging methods, such as top GRE prep apps and sites, to help you learn and remember the vocabulary:
1. Utilize Flashcards
Whether physical or digital, flashcards engage your memory through active recall. This method strengthens your brain's ability to retain information and makes retrieving a word's meaning easier during the test.
- Flashcard apps like Anki and Quizlet are beneficial because they incorporate spaced repetition, meaning that words you struggle with are reviewed more often, ensuring they stick.
- Create flashcards that don't just define the word but also include a sentence using the word in context, a synonym, and an antonym.
2. Engage with High-Level Reading Materials
Reading high-level materials like academic journals is one of the most effective ways to acquire GRE-level vocabulary. The more you read, the more likely you encounter challenging words in different contexts.
- For example, reading The Economist or Scientific American articles can expose you to GRE-level words, especially in fields like politics, science, and technology.
3. Practice with GRE Vocabulary Apps
Numerous apps are explicitly designed for GRE vocabulary. These apps are often interactive, offering quizzes, word lists, and games that make learning fun and efficient.
- Some of the most popular GRE vocabulary apps include Vocabulary Builder and Vocabulary.com, which feature curated lists of words commonly found on the GRE, along with example sentences and audio pronunciations.
- Many apps allow you to track your progress to see how many words you’ve mastered over time.
4. Create a Vocabulary Journal
Every time you learn a new word, write it down along with its definition, synonyms, antonyms, and an example sentence. Regularly reviewing your journal will help reinforce your knowledge.
- You can take this further by categorizing words based on themes, for example, grouping words related to emotions, business, or politics.
- Try using the new words you learn in your daily conversations or writing. The more you actively use a word, the more likely you will remember it.
Diversifying your study methods will not only keep things interesting but also enhance your ability to retain and recall words on test day.
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Next, let’s look at some common mistakes to avoid while preparing for the GRE vocabulary.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Learning GRE Vocabulary
During GRE preparation, learning vocabulary can feel daunting. The pressure to memorize hundreds of words can often lead to missteps that hinder your progress.
It's easy to get overwhelmed or fall into common traps that can waste time and energy. By being aware of the most frequent mistakes, you can avoid these pitfalls and ensure a more efficient and effective study process.
Here are some of the key mistakes to steer clear of:
- Overloading with Too Many Words at Once: Learning too many words at once can lead to burnout and poor retention. Research shows that overloading your brain with information hampers long-term recall.
Pro Tip: Focus on mastering 10-15 words daily and review them before moving on.
- Neglecting Word Context: Memorizing definitions without understanding how words are used in context can lead to confusion. Context helps define subtle meanings and correct usage.
Pro Tip: Practice with sentences or passages that use the words to grasp their context.
- Ignoring Pronunciation: Incorrect pronunciation can lead to misunderstandings and confusion during the test. It also helps to remember the word’s proper form.
Pro Tip: Listen to the correct pronunciation via apps like Google Translate or YouTube and repeat the words aloud.
- Not Reviewing Regularly: You can forget up to 50% of new words within a few hours if you don’t review them. Regular review is crucial for retention.
Pro Tip: Use spaced repetition tools like Anki to review words at increasing intervals.
- Relying Solely on Notes
Simply taking notes isn’t enough. Passive learning doesn’t reinforce vocabulary effectively. Actively using the words will strengthen your recall.
Pro Tip: Write essays or use the words in conversation to reinforce their meanings.
Avoid these mistakes and take a more strategic approach to learning GRE vocabulary. Focused practice, regular review, and active use of words will improve your recall and set you up for success.
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Now, let’s explore some expert tips and tricks that will take your GRE vocabulary skills to the next level.
Expert Tips & Tricks to Become Proficient in GRE Vocabulary
Learning GRE vocabulary involves applying smart strategies to make your study process more effective. With the proper techniques and efficient GRE resources, you can retain a wide range of vocabulary and use it confidently on test day.
The expert tips below will help you do just that and enhance your GRE scores, turning vocabulary study from a tedious task into a strategic advantage.
1. Use the “Spaced Repetition” Technique
Spaced repetition is a proven method for retaining vocabulary over the long term. The concept is simple: instead of cramming all your vocabulary learning into one session, you revisit words at increasing intervals over time.
- Pro Tip: Use apps like Anki or Quizlet, designed explicitly for spaced repetition. They'll schedule your reviews based on how well you remember each word.
2. Contextual Learning
Contextual learning helps you grasp subtle nuances in meaning, making applying vocabulary in GRE questions easier. Without context, it’s easy to misinterpret such words.
- Pro Tip: Read articles, essays, or books that use GRE-level vocabulary. Highlight unfamiliar words, figure out their meanings from context, and then check a dictionary to confirm.
3. Make Vocabulary Flashcards
Flashcards remain one of the most effective tools for learning vocabulary. They're simple, quick, and force you to engage in active recall. The more details you add, the stronger your understanding will be.
- Pro Tip: Focus on creating digital flashcards with apps supporting spaced repetition, or add images to the flashcards to create visual associations.
4. Group Words by Themes
Grouping vocabulary words by themes or topics can help reinforce connections between them. This method enables you to recall not just individual words but entire groups of related vocabulary when needed.
- Pro Tip: When reviewing, study words by themes rather than randomly. This method takes advantage of the brain's natural tendency to remember information organized into categories.
5. Set Realistic Goals
Setting clear, achievable goals is crucial for effective vocabulary learning. Aim for a smaller, realistic number like 10-15 words per day, and focus on mastering them before moving on.
- Pro Tip: Break your goals into manageable steps. For example, aim to learn and review 10 words daily, and use them in sentences or practice questions by the end of the week.
Stick to these tips, and you'll notice significant progress in no time.
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Also Read: What is GRE Score Validity: Know GRE Exam Types & Scoring System
Next, let’s understand what to focus on and avoid during your vocabulary prep.
GRE Vocabulary Dos and Don’ts
While plenty of strategies will help you succeed, it's equally important to understand what not to do during your prep. The right approach can save you time and keep you focused on what truly matters.
Let’s explore the key dos and don’ts to make your vocabulary study more efficient and targeted:
DOs | DON’Ts |
Focus on contextual learning. Understand how words are used in sentences, not just their definitions. | Don’t overload with too many words at once. Learning too many words in one session can cause burnout and confusion. |
Use spaced repetition. Review words at increasing intervals to reinforce memory. | Don’t ignore pronunciation. Mispronouncing words can lead to confusion and hinder recall. |
Learn words in groups or themes. Grouping related words makes them easier to remember. | Don’t skip context. Memorizing words without knowing how they fit into context can lead to incorrect usage. |
Review regularly. Consistent revision helps strengthen retention and ensures the words stay fresh. | Don’t cram vocabulary last minute. Cramming leads to short-term recall, but long-term retention requires regular practice. |
Use new words in writing or conversation. Active usage helps reinforce your memory and understanding. | Don’t rely solely on notes. Passive learning (just reading notes) won’t help you apply vocabulary effectively during the test. |
Remember, quality over quantity is key. Don’t rush; instead, focus on learning the words with the help of the GRE vocabulary list that will help you excel on test day.
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How Can upGrad Help You Excel in GRE Vocabulary?
The GRE Vocabulary section is not just about memorizing words but about understanding them in context, reinforcing them with spaced repetition, and actively using them.
With consistent practice and effective techniques like flashcards and thematic grouping, you'll ensure your vocabulary knowledge sticks and is test-ready. Focused study and the right strategies will help you confidently tackle the exam.
If you're feeling lost or unsure about how to approach your study plan, upGrad's 1:1 career counseling can help. Our experts will guide you in creating a personalized approach that fits your goals and learning style!
FAQs
What’s the best way to remember complex GRE vocabulary words?
Use spaced repetition to review words at increasing intervals, connect them to real-world contexts, or create memorable associations. Visual cues or sentences using the word can solidify the memory. Apps like Anki help automate this process.
How can I avoid common mistakes when using GRE vocabulary in context?
Always test words in multiple contexts and never just memorize definitions. Check if the word fits logically in the sentence and reinforces the intended meaning. Avoid over-reliance on just flashcards. Active practice ensures proper usage.
How important is learning GRE vocabulary in sentences instead of just definitions?
Learning in sentences is crucial. Words are tested based on their usage, not isolated meanings. It helps you understand nuances and prepares you for context-based questions common on the GRE. Example: "Skeptical" in a sentence is easier to recall than just its definition.
How do I know if a GRE word or just extra vocabulary is essential for the test?
Stick to high-frequency GRE word lists like those from ETS, as these reflect words most likely to appear. These lists are based on the most commonly used terms in the test and ensure you're focusing on what's most relevant.
Can learning GRE vocabulary through word associations really help in remembering it?
Yes, word associations can make words stick. For example, link "benevolent" with "beneficial" to remember it means kind or generous. Such connections create mental shortcuts that help with recall and improve long-term retention.
What should I do if I keep forgetting GRE vocabulary words despite regular practice?
If words aren’t sticking, try changing your study method. Engage with them in different formats. Create flashcards, write sentences, or use apps that prompt you with spaced repetition. Mixing learning styles can help reinforce vocabulary.
How can I incorporate GRE vocabulary into my daily life to make studying easier?
Use the words actively in conversations, emails, or journals. If you learn the word "loquacious," try describing someone as "loquacious" in a chat. The more you integrate these words, the easier it becomes to remember and use them.
Is it better to focus on high-frequency GRE words or dive into advanced-level vocabulary?
Start with high-frequency words, as they make up a significant portion of the test. Once you're comfortable, challenge yourself with more advanced words. Overloading on advanced terms without mastering the basics can lead to confusion.
How can I tell if I’m overloading with vocabulary or focusing on quality learning?
If you’re not retaining words despite consistent study, you might be trying to learn too many at once. Focus on depth. Aim for mastery of a small batch of words before moving on to new ones. This approach ensures long-term retention.
What’s the role of GRE vocabulary in improving my score on the reading comprehension section?
A strong vocabulary improves your reading comprehension by helping you quickly grasp the meaning of complex passages. You’ll better understand tone, inference, and specific details, which are essential for answering questions accurately.
Are there any tools or apps that can help me efficiently track my progress in GRE vocabulary?
Yes, apps like Anki and Quizlet provide tracking features and flashcard sets, specifically designed for GRE prep. They use spaced repetition and offer progress reports to help you see how well you're retaining vocabulary over time.
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