02 Comprehensive GRE Reading Vocabulary Study Guide

A collection of vocabulary flashcards based on core terms from GRE reading passages, aimed at enhancing comprehension and critical analysis skills.

reclamation

The process of claiming something back or of reasserting a right; often used metaphorically to mean 'revival' or 'restoration'.

comfortable

Providing physical ease and relaxation; when used in GRE context, means 'proficient' or 'skilled' with a tool, method, or idea.

turn to

To start to do or use something new; in GRE context, implies seeking help from or using a resource.

credit with

To believe that someone or something has a particular good quality; carries a tone of praise or acknowledgment.

evoke

To bring a feeling, memory, or image into the mind; in GRE context, it often means to draw out or bring forth a response.

complexion

The natural color, texture, and appearance of skin; metaphorically refers to the overall nature or character of something.

distribute

To give out or spread something over an area; in scientific contexts, often means to scatter.

convey

To transport or carry to a place; in the context of knowledge, means to transfer or pass on information.

discursive

Digressing from subject to subject; in academic context, can mean 'proceeding by reason or argument' rather than intuition.

manipulate

To handle or control something skillfully; in competitive contexts, can mean to skillfully maneuver to gain an advantage.

determine

To ascertain exactly or to be the decisive factor in an outcome; implies controlling the outcome.

critical

Expressing disapproving comments; in GRE context, means vitally important or essential.

fine

Of high quality; in scientific contexts, often means 'very small' or 'delicate'.

apparent

Clearly visible or understood; often used to imply something that seems true but may not be.

abolition

The action of formally putting an end to a system, practice, or institution; often associated with social reform movements.

adept

Very skilled or proficient at something; implies a high level of skill acquired through practice.

admonish

To warn or reprimand someone firmly; conveys a tone of gentle yet serious warning.

ameliorate

To make something bad or unsatisfactory better; implies improvement of conditions.

analogous

Comparable in certain respects, typically in a way that clarifies the nature of the things compared.

archaic

Very old or old-fashioned; refers to things that are no longer in common use.

assail

To make a concerted or violent attack; can also mean to criticize strongly or to be hit by an unpleasant feeling.

attenuate

To reduce the force, effect, or value of something; often implies a gradual weakening.

bourgeoisie

The middle class, often with reference to its materialistic values; can refer to the capitalist class in Marxist theory.

candid

Truthful and straightforward; implies openness even regarding unpleasant truths.