Day 3 Flashcards
(20 cards)
Gerrymander
(c)
Definition:
To manipulate the boundaries of an electoral district to favor one party or class.
Example Sentence:
The political party was accused of trying to gerrymander the district to secure more votes in the next election.
SAT-Style Paragraph:
In an effort to maintain political control, the ruling party approved a redistricting map that many critics argued was a clear attempt to gerrymander electoral boundaries. By clustering opposition voters into a few districts while spreading their own supporters across many, the party increased its chances of winning more seats without actually gaining more public support.
Question:
Which choice best describes the central idea of the paragraph?
A) Voter turnout is declining due to complex election rules.
B) Redistricting is necessary to maintain fair representation.
C) The ruling party’s strategy may distort democratic representation.
D) Critics support the redistricting map for improving efficiency.
Galvanize
(c)
Definition:
To shock or excite someone into taking action.
Example Sentence:
The documentary about climate change galvanized the students to organize a campus-wide sustainability campaign.
SAT-Style Paragraph:
After a local factory spill contaminated the town’s water supply, community leaders used the crisis to galvanize residents into demanding stronger environmental protections. What had once been a quiet town with little civic engagement quickly transformed into a hub of activism, with rallies, petitions, and town hall meetings occurring almost daily.
Question:
Which choice best describes the effect of the factory spill on the community?
A) It discouraged residents from engaging in local politics.
B) It resulted in stricter pollution regulations being immediately passed.
C) It energized the town to become actively involved in environmental issues.
D) It caused widespread panic and relocation from the town.
Hypothetical
(C)
Definition:
Based on or serving as a suggestion or idea that is not necessarily real; imagined or theoretical.
Example Sentence:
The scientist proposed a hypothetical scenario in which the climate could stabilize without human intervention.
SAT-Style Paragraph:
During the ethics seminar, the professor presented a hypothetical case in which a self-driving car had to choose between hitting one pedestrian or swerving and harming its passenger. Although the scenario was entirely fictional, it sparked intense debate among the students about how artificial intelligence should be programmed to handle moral dilemmas.
Question:
Which choice best describes the role of the hypothetical case in the paragraph?
A) It serves as evidence from a real-life legal trial.
B) It provides entertainment to lighten the mood of the seminar.
C) It introduces a fictional situation to explore complex moral questions.
D) It demonstrates the failure of artificial intelligence systems in the real world.
Hedonist
(c)
Definition:
A person who believes that the pursuit of pleasure is the most important goal in life.
Example Sentence:
Known for his extravagant lifestyle and love of fine dining, Marcus was often called a hedonist by his more frugal friends.
SAT-Style Paragraph:
While some praised the travel blogger for her unapologetic enjoyment of life’s luxuries, others criticized her as a hedonist, arguing that her posts glorified materialism over substance. Despite the backlash, she continued to showcase five-star resorts, gourmet meals, and designer clothing, claiming that experiencing beauty and comfort was central to her philosophy of happiness.
Question:
Which choice best describes how the blogger is portrayed in the paragraph?
A) As a minimalist who avoids luxury
B) As a hedonist who prioritizes pleasure and comfort
C) As an activist advocating for social reform
D) As a scholar researching travel trends
Halcyon
(B)
Definition:
Calm, peaceful; often used to nostalgically refer to a time of happiness, success, or tranquility.
Example Sentence:
She often reminisced about the halcyon days of her childhood, when life seemed simpler and full of wonder.
SAT-Style Paragraph:
Many retirees speak fondly of the halcyon days of their youth, recalling a time when communities were tight-knit, summers felt endless, and technology had not yet saturated every aspect of daily life. While some of this nostalgia may be exaggerated, the longing for a slower, more connected past is undeniably common.
Question:
What is the primary function of the phrase “halcyon days” in the paragraph?
A) To describe a historical era known for major political reform
B) To express nostalgia for a perceived simpler and more peaceful time
C) To critique modern technology and its effects on society
D) To highlight the economic struggles of past generations
Itinerant
Definition:
Traveling from place to place, especially to work or provide a service in different locations.
Example Sentence:
The company hired an itinerant technician who visited several client offices each week to perform system maintenance.
Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
Before the rise of modern transportation and centralized schooling, many children in rural areas relied on itinerant educators—teachers who traveled from village to village offering lessons in basic literacy and arithmetic. These educators often taught in barns, churches, or even open fields, carrying with them few belongings but a strong dedication to spreading knowledge wherever it was needed.
Question:
What is the main purpose of the paragraph?
A) To explain how modern education systems evolved
B) To describe the lifestyle and significance of traveling teachers in rural areas
C) To argue against relying on temporary education systems
D) To compare education in urban and rural communities
Intrepid
Definition:
Fearless; adventurous; showing great courage and determination, especially in dangerous or unfamiliar situations.
Example Sentence:
The intrepid explorer ventured deep into the uncharted jungle, undeterred by warnings of the harsh terrain and wild animals.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
Despite the treacherous weather and unpredictable ice conditions, the team of scientists pressed forward across the Antarctic landscape. Their intrepid leader, Dr. Elaine Foster, had spent years preparing for this expedition, determined to collect climate data from one of the most remote regions on Earth. Her unshakable resolve and willingness to face extreme danger earned the admiration of her colleagues.
❓Question:
What does the word intrepid suggest about Dr. Foster?
A) She was uncertain about the success of the expedition.
B) She had a fear of unpredictable environments.
C) She displayed remarkable courage in the face of risk.
D) She ignored safety procedures during the trip.
Intemperate
Definition:
Lacking self-control; excessive, especially in terms of behavior or consumption (e.g., anger, speech, drinking).
Example Sentence:
The politician’s intemperate remarks during the debate alienated many moderate voters.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
Although the judge was known for being fair and reasonable in most cases, his intemperate reaction during the high-profile trial surprised the courtroom. He raised his voice, criticized the defense attorney harshly, and issued rulings that many considered unusually severe. Legal analysts later questioned whether his emotions had clouded his judgment.
❓Question:
What does the paragraph suggest about the judge’s behavior during the trial?
A) It demonstrated his consistent professionalism.
B) It reflected a rare lapse into excessive emotion and harshness.
C) It was praised by legal analysts for being decisive.
D) It showed his inability to understand legal arguments.
Innuendo
(b)
Definition:
An indirect or subtle remark, often suggesting something negative or improper without stating it outright.
Example Sentence:
The comedian’s joke was full of innuendo, implying scandalous rumors without explicitly mentioning them.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
During the heated meeting, several participants exchanged quiet innuendos about the CEO’s management style, hinting at favoritism and mismanagement without openly criticizing him. These veiled comments created tension in the room, as no one wanted to be the first to speak frankly but everyone understood the underlying accusations.
❓Question:
What role do the innuendos play in the meeting described?
A) They openly praise the CEO’s leadership.
B) They indirectly suggest criticism without direct confrontation.
C) They provide clear evidence of mismanagement.
D) They serve to lighten the mood with humor.
Innocuous
Definition:
Not harmful or offensive; harmless.
Example Sentence:
The doctor assured her that the small rash was innocuous and would clear up on its own.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
At first glance, the new policy seemed innocuous—a simple adjustment to office hours that allowed employees more flexibility. However, some workers worried that this change might lead to confusion in scheduling and decreased productivity. Despite initial concerns, the transition went smoothly, proving the policy to be largely harmless.
❓Question:
What does the passage suggest about the new policy?
A) It caused major problems in the workplace.
B) It was intended to confuse employees.
C) It appeared harmless and did not cause significant issues.
D) It was immediately rejected by the staff.
Inexorable
(c)
Definition:
Impossible to stop or prevent; relentless.
Example Sentence:
The inexorable advance of technology has transformed every aspect of modern life.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
Climate scientists warn about the inexorable rise in global temperatures if significant actions are not taken soon. Despite numerous international agreements, greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase, suggesting that without drastic changes, the planet will face irreversible consequences. The challenge is to slow a process that seems unstoppable.
❓Question:
What does the word inexorable imply about the rise in global temperatures?
A) It can be easily controlled with minor efforts.
B) It is a slow and uncertain process.
C) It is relentless and difficult to prevent.
D) It is a temporary and reversible condition.
Indignant
(b)
Definition:
Feeling or showing anger or annoyance at what is perceived as unfair treatment.
Example Sentence:
She was indignant when accused of cheating on the exam, knowing she had studied honestly.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
After hearing the unfair decision by the committee, many members became indignant. They believed their hard work had been overlooked and that the judging process was biased. Their feelings of frustration and anger sparked calls for a review of the entire selection procedure.
❓Question:
What caused the members to feel indignant in the passage?
A) They were praised for their efforts.
B) They felt they were treated unfairly.
C) They were happy with the committee’s decision.
D) They ignored the outcome of the selection.
Incontrovertible
(c)
Definition:
Impossible to deny or dispute; unquestionably true.
Example Sentence:
The DNA evidence provided incontrovertible proof of the suspect’s innocence.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
The researchers presented incontrovertible data showing a direct link between smoking and lung disease. Despite attempts by some interest groups to dispute these findings, the overwhelming scientific consensus confirmed the health risks. This evidence has been used to support stricter regulations on tobacco products.
❓Question:
What does the passage suggest about the data presented by the researchers?
A) It was questionable and easily challenged.
B) It was unclear and inconclusive.
C) It was undeniable and strongly supported the health risks of smoking.
D) It was irrelevant to public health concerns.
Implacable
(C)
Definition:
Unable to be appeased, calmed, or satisfied; relentless.
Example Sentence:
Despite the apology, the victim remained implacable and refused to forgive the offense.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
The negotiations between the two countries reached an impasse largely because of the implacable stance each side took on the territorial dispute. Neither government was willing to compromise or back down, making it nearly impossible to find a peaceful resolution. Observers feared the conflict might escalate further due to such unyielding attitudes.
❓Question:
What does the word implacable suggest about the positions of the two countries?
A) They were willing to negotiate and compromise.
B) They were calm and cooperative.
C) They were unyielding and unwilling to change their stance.
D) They were indifferent to the dispute.
Impetus
(C)
Definition:
A force or stimulus that causes something to move or accelerate; motivation or encouragement to take action.
Example Sentence:
The discovery of new evidence gave fresh impetus to the ongoing investigation.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
The recent surge in renewable energy investments has provided significant impetus to the development of green technologies. Governments and private companies, motivated by environmental concerns and economic opportunities, are accelerating research and implementation efforts. This momentum may lead to substantial reductions in global carbon emissions over the next decade.
❓Question:
What role does impetus play in the development of green technologies according to the passage?
A) It hinders progress and causes delays.
B) It discourages investment in renewable energy.
C) It acts as a driving force encouraging faster development.
D) It replaces existing technologies with outdated ones.
Impecunious
(B)
Definition:
Having little or no money; poor.
Example Sentence:
Despite being impecunious, the artist continued to create beautiful paintings with great passion.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
The charity’s mission is to support impecunious families who struggle to afford basic necessities like food, clothing, and shelter. Many recipients express gratitude for the assistance, which helps them during difficult financial times. Volunteers work tirelessly to ensure that help reaches those most in need.
❓Question:
What does the word impecunious imply about the families mentioned in the passage?
A) They are wealthy and financially secure.
B) They have little or no money and face financial hardships.
C) They are unwilling to accept help from charities.
D) They manage their finances with ease.
Impasse
(C)
Definition:
A situation in which no progress is possible, especially because of disagreement; a deadlock.
Example Sentence:
The negotiations reached an impasse when neither side was willing to compromise.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
During the labor dispute, management and the union found themselves at an impasse. Both parties insisted on their demands, and despite several rounds of discussions, no agreement was reached. The stalemate threatened to halt production and disrupt the company’s operations indefinitely.
❓Question:
What does the word impasse mean in the context of the passage?
A) A successful resolution to the dispute.
B) A temporary pause with expected progress.
C) A deadlock where no agreement can be reached.
D) An agreement favoring management.
Iconoclast
(C)
Definition:
A person who attacks or challenges established beliefs, traditions, or institutions.
Example Sentence:
The artist was considered an iconoclast for rejecting conventional styles and creating revolutionary works.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
In the world of technology, innovators often act as iconoclasts, challenging long-held industry norms. By questioning traditional methods, they pave the way for breakthroughs and disrupt markets. Though their ideas may initially face resistance, such individuals frequently drive progress and change.
❓Question:
What role does an iconoclast play according to the passage?
A) They uphold traditional beliefs.
B) They resist change and innovation.
C) They challenge established norms and encourage progress.
D) They avoid conflict and maintain the status quo.
Laud
(C)
Definition:
To praise highly, especially in public.
Example Sentence:
The teacher lauded the student’s exceptional research project during the award ceremony.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
Critics lauded the author’s latest novel for its vivid storytelling and complex characters. The book quickly gained popularity, receiving numerous awards and positive reviews. Many consider it a masterpiece that revitalizes contemporary literature.
❓Question:
What does the word laud mean in the context of the passage?
A) To criticize harshly.
B) To ignore or dismiss.
C) To praise enthusiastically.
D) To question or doubt.
Laconic
(B)
Definition:
Using very few words; concise to the point of seeming rude or mysterious.
Example Sentence:
His laconic reply to the question left everyone wondering what he really meant.
📘 Digital SAT-Style Paragraph:
During the interview, the witness was laconic, giving brief and to-the-point answers. While some appreciated the efficiency, others found his responses frustratingly vague. His terse communication style made it difficult to fully understand the details of the incident.
❓Question:
What does the word laconic suggest about the witness’s responses?
A) They were detailed and elaborate.
B) They were brief and minimal.
C) They were confusing and nonsensical.
D) They were enthusiastic and emotional.
