Preparing for the GRE requires more than just math and analytical writing practice—it also demands a strong vocabulary. The GRE verbal section often tests your understanding of high-level English words that may not be part of everyday conversation. That’s why building your vocabulary is essential to boosting your overall score. Many learners attending gre classes in ahmedabad focus heavily on vocabulary building to gain a competitive edge in the verbal section.
Here’s a curated list of the most commonly tested GRE vocabulary words along with their meanings and usage examples to help you prepare more effectively.
Why Vocabulary Matters for the GRE
The verbal reasoning section of the GRE evaluates your:
- Ability to understand the meanings of words, sentences, and entire passages.
- Skill in identifying relationships between words and concepts.
- Command of context-based vocabulary, particularly in text completion and sentence equivalence questions.
Learning the right vocabulary can dramatically improve your performance in these areas.
Most Common GRE Vocabulary Words
Here’s a list of frequently tested GRE words with their meanings and examples:
1. Anomaly
Meaning: Something that deviates from the standard or norm.
Example: The sudden drop in temperature was an anomaly for that time of year.
2. Equivocal
Meaning: Open to more than one interpretation; ambiguous.
Example: The politician gave an equivocal response to the controversial question.
3. Lucid
Meaning: Clear and easy to understand.
Example: Her explanation of quantum physics was surprisingly lucid.
4. Precipitate
Meaning: To cause something to happen quickly or suddenly.
Example: The announcement precipitated a sharp decline in stock prices.
5. Assuage
Meaning: To make an unpleasant feeling less intense.
Example: He tried to assuage her fears by offering reassurances.
6. Erudite
Meaning: Having or showing great knowledge.
Example: The professor’s erudite lectures attracted students from across the university.
7. Opaque
Meaning: Not transparent or hard to understand.
Example: The legal document was full of opaque language.
8. Prodigal
Meaning: Wastefully extravagant.
Example: The prodigal son returned home after spending all his inheritance.
9. Enigma
Meaning: A person or thing that is mysterious or puzzling.
Example: Despite years of study, the ancient script remained an enigma.
10. Fervid
Meaning: Intensely enthusiastic or passionate.
Example: She gave a fervid speech about environmental protection.
Tips for Mastering GRE Vocabulary
- Use Flashcards – Tools like Anki or Quizlet can help you revise regularly.
- Read Widely – Engage with academic journals, editorials, and classic literature.
- Practice Daily – Set aside time each day to review and use new words in sentences.
- Learn Word Roots – Understanding Greek and Latin roots helps decode unfamiliar words.
- Use Vocabulary in Context – Simply memorizing definitions isn’t enough. Practice using words in context.
Conclusion
Mastering GRE vocabulary isn’t about memorizing a massive word list overnight. It’s about consistent exposure, practice, and applying words in the right context. Whether you’re studying independently or with support from gre classes in ahmedabad, a strong vocabulary will significantly improve your chances of achieving a high verbal score. Start building your word power today—your future self will thank you!
FAQs
1. How many vocabulary words should I learn for the GRE?
There’s no fixed number, but learning and understanding around 500–1000 high-frequency GRE words can give you a solid advantage in the verbal reasoning section.
2. What is the best way to memorize GRE vocabulary?
The most effective methods include spaced repetition using flashcards, using new words in context, and reading challenging texts like academic articles or editorials.
3. Are vocabulary questions still important on the GRE?
Yes. Vocabulary plays a crucial role in Text Completion and Sentence Equivalence questions, which make up a significant portion of the verbal reasoning section.
4. Can reading help improve my GRE vocabulary?
Absolutely. Regularly reading editorials, scholarly journals, or classic literature helps you encounter new words and see how they are used naturally.
5. Are the vocabulary questions the same in every GRE exam?
No, the specific questions vary, but the type of vocabulary tested remains consistent. The test often includes high-level, context-driven words, so learning commonly tested vocabulary is still highly beneficial.
