Day 2 Flashcards
(21 cards)
Draconian
Definition:
Extremely harsh or severe, especially regarding laws or rules.
Example sentence:
The government imposed draconian measures to control the spread of the virus, including strict curfews and heavy fines.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
In response to rising crime rates, the city council enacted draconian policies that severely limited personal freedoms. Critics argued that these harsh laws disproportionately affected marginalized communities and infringed upon basic civil rights, sparking widespread debate about the balance between security and liberty.
Disparage
Definition:
To criticize someone or something in a way that shows strong disapproval or disrespect; to belittle.
Example sentence:
She would often disparage her coworkers’ ideas during meetings, making it difficult for the team to work collaboratively.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
Although the novel received critical acclaim, some reviewers chose to disparage the author’s style, calling it overly complex and inaccessible to general readers. This negative feedback, however, did little to diminish the book’s popularity among a wide audience.
Diminutive
Definition:
Very small in size or amount.
A word, suffix, or name indicating smallness or affection (less common in SAT context).
Example sentence:
Despite his diminutive stature, the boxer was incredibly strong and agile in the ring.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
The diminutive village nestled in the valley was known for its quaint cottages and peaceful atmosphere. Though small in size, the community was vibrant, with residents taking pride in their local traditions and festivals.
Dilettante
Definition:
A person who takes up an art, activity, or subject merely for amusement or superficial interest, without serious commitment or knowledge.
Example sentence:
He was dismissed as a dilettante in the field of painting because he never practiced seriously or studied the techniques.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
While some students devoted countless hours to mastering their subjects, others remained dilettantes, dabbling casually without pursuing deeper understanding. This superficial engagement often resulted in limited progress and a lack of genuine expertise.
Diffident
Definition:
Shy, lacking self-confidence; reserved or hesitant in behavior.
Example sentence:
Though talented, she was diffident during the presentation, speaking softly and avoiding eye contact with the audience.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
His diffident demeanor made it difficult for him to assert his ideas in group discussions. Despite having strong opinions, he often held back, fearing judgment from his peers and doubting his own abilities.
Diatribe
Definition:
A forceful and bitter verbal attack against someone or something.
Example sentence:
The politician launched into a diatribe against the new policies, criticizing them as unfair and damaging to the economy.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
The author’s latest essay was less an objective analysis and more a diatribe aimed at the government’s environmental regulations. Filled with sharp accusations and harsh language, the piece sparked controversy among readers and experts alike.
Deride
Definition:
To express contempt or ridicule toward someone or something; to mock.
Example sentence:
The critics derided the film for its weak plot and poor acting.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
Despite the artist’s innovative approach, some traditionalists derided her work as nonsensical and lacking true skill. However, her unique style eventually gained recognition and inspired a new generation of painters.
Demagogue
Definition:
A political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular desires, emotions, and prejudices rather than by using rational argument.
Example sentence:
The charismatic demagogue gained followers by exploiting fears and promising simple solutions to complex problems.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
Throughout history, demagogues have risen to power by stirring public anger and resentment, often blaming minority groups or external enemies for societal problems. Their persuasive rhetoric, while emotionally compelling, tends to undermine democratic principles and promote division.
Deleterious
Definition:
Causing harm or damage; harmful, often in a subtle or unexpected way.
Example sentence:
The scientist warned that prolonged exposure to the chemical could have deleterious effects on human health.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
While certain pesticides help increase crop yields, their deleterious impact on soil quality and local wildlife has raised concerns among environmentalists. The long-term consequences of these harmful substances remain a subject of ongoing research.
Decry
Definition:
To publicly denounce or criticize something strongly.
Example sentence:
Activists decry the government’s failure to address climate change adequately.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
Many experts decry the rapid destruction of rainforests, emphasizing the loss of biodiversity and the worsening effects on the global climate. Despite these warnings, deforestation continues at an alarming rate.
Dearth
Definition:
A scarcity or lack of something.
Example sentence:
The dearth of clean drinking water in the region led to serious health problems.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
The dearth of qualified teachers in rural schools has made it difficult to provide students with a quality education. This shortage not only affects learning outcomes but also hinders community development over time.
Extricate
Definition:
To free or remove someone or something from a difficult or tangled situation.
Example sentence:
The firefighter worked quickly to extricate the trapped passengers from the wrecked car.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
The negotiator was able to extricate the hostages from the dangerous situation without any casualties. His calm approach and careful planning helped untangle a complex conflict that had seemed impossible to resolve.
Exhort
Definition:
To strongly encourage or urge someone to do something.
Example sentence:
The coach exhorted the players to give their best effort during the championship game.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
In her speech, the community leader exhorted residents to participate in the upcoming election, emphasizing that their voices could bring about meaningful change. Her passionate plea inspired many to register and vote.
Evocation
Definition:
The act of bringing a feeling, memory, or image into the mind.
Example sentence:
The old photograph was an evocation of her childhood, filling her with nostalgia and warmth.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
The poet’s vivid descriptions created a powerful evocation of the countryside, allowing readers to experience the sights, sounds, and scents as if they were there. This ability to summon detailed imagery made her work deeply moving.
Erroneous
Definition:
Incorrect or mistaken; containing errors.
Example sentence:
The scientist realized that the initial data was erroneous due to a calibration error in the equipment.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
The report was based on erroneous assumptions that skewed the final conclusions. After further review, the researchers acknowledged the mistakes and revised their analysis to reflect more accurate findings.
Equanimity
Definition:
Calmness and composure, especially in difficult situations.
Example sentence:
Despite the chaos around her, she maintained her equanimity and handled the crisis efficiently.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
In the face of intense pressure and unforeseen challenges, the leader displayed remarkable equanimity. Her ability to remain calm and collected inspired confidence among her team and helped them navigate the crisis successfully.
Enigmatic
Definition:
Mysterious, difficult to understand or interpret.
Example sentence:
Her enigmatic smile left everyone wondering what she was really thinking.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
The ancient manuscript contained an enigmatic message written in a language that scholars had yet to decipher. Its mysterious symbols puzzled researchers for decades, fueling countless theories about its origin and purpose.
Fortuitous
Definition:
Happening by chance, often in a lucky or fortunate way.
Example sentence:
Their meeting at the cafe was fortuitous, leading to a lifelong friendship.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
The discovery of the rare fossil was fortuitous, as the team had been searching in a completely different area. This unexpected find provided new insights into prehistoric life and changed the course of their research.
Fortitude
Definition:
Courage and strength in facing adversity or pain.
Example sentence:
She showed great fortitude by continuing her studies despite numerous obstacles.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
During the long and difficult recovery, the patient displayed remarkable fortitude. His resilience and determination inspired everyone around him to remain hopeful and supportive throughout the process.
Fleeting
Definition:
Lasting for a very short time; brief and passing quickly.
Example sentence:
She caught a fleeting glimpse of the comet before it disappeared behind the clouds.
Paragraph with the word (SAT style):
Moments of happiness can be fleeting, especially during stressful times. It is important to cherish these brief intervals of joy, as they often provide the strength needed to face future challenges.
