SSAT Middle Level Verbal : Using Prefixes, Suffixes, and Roots to Identify Synonyms
Study concepts, example questions & explanations for SSAT Middle Level Verbal
All SSAT Middle Level Verbal Resources
Example Questions
Example Question #151 : Using Prefixes, Suffixes, And Roots To Identify Synonyms
Select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the word in capital letters.
AMBIVALENT
Vexing
Unwieldy
Unprepared
Unsure
Unsettling
Unsure
The prefix "ambi-" means both, as in “ambidextrous,” which means equally skilled with both hands. In this context, “ambivalent” means to be in two minds, to be in both minds, to be unsure. To provide further help, “vexing” means puzzling or confusing; something that is “unsettling” makes you nervous and uncomfortable; to be “unprepared” means to be not ready.
Example Question #152 : Using Prefixes, Suffixes, And Roots To Identify Synonyms
Select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the word in capital letters.
OMNIPRESENT
Carnivore
Ubiquitous
All-powerful
Omnivore
All-knowing
Ubiquitous
The prefix omni- means everywhere or everything, as in “omnipotent,” which means all-powerful or “omniscient,” which means all-knowing. The word “omnipresent” means present everywhere; this is closest in definition to “ubiquitous,” which means existing everywhere. To provide further help, a “carnivore” is a creature that only eats meat; an “omnivore” is a creature that eats meat and vegetables, that eats everything.
Example Question #153 : Using Prefixes, Suffixes, And Roots To Identify Synonyms
Select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the word in capital letters.
GRIEVANCE
Stipulation
Explanation
Complaint
Support
Review
Complaint
"Grieve" is a root word that signifies a problem or negative situation. A grievance most nearly means a complaint or alert someone to a problem.
Example Question #154 : Using Prefixes, Suffixes, And Roots To Identify Synonyms
Select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the word in capital letters.
EGOIST
Self-centered person
Diminutive child
Calm spectator
Professional performer
Preeminent politician
Self-centered person
The root word "ego" indicates someone who is self-centered. An "egoist" is a person who is overly focused on their own interests. "Diminutive" means small. "Preeminent" means a notable or leading figure.
Example Question #155 : Using Prefixes, Suffixes, And Roots To Identify Synonyms
Select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the word in capital letters.
ABBREVIATE
Inscribe
Announce
Detect
Shorten
Choose
Shorten
"Abbreviate" is a verb derived from the Latin root brevis, meaning short. "Shorten" is a verb with the same meaning, so it is the correct answer.
Example Question #156 : Using Prefixes, Suffixes, And Roots To Identify Synonyms
Select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the word in capital letters.
FOOLHARDY
Laughable
Reckless
Cautious
Dull-witted
Careful
Reckless
The root word "fool" does give a negative implication to the word, however should not be an indicator that the word is related to strict intelligence. Instead, "foolhardy" generally describes someone who disregards consequences or asks impulsively.
Example Question #157 : Using Prefixes, Suffixes, And Roots To Identify Synonyms
Select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the word in capital letters.
ALCHEMY
Cheep
Alcove
Chemistry
Challenging
Cheerfulness
Chemistry
"Alchemy" is closest in meaning to "chemistry." Both words share a semantic root. The other words have meanings which are not at all related to alchemy.
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All SSAT Middle Level Verbal Resources
