The Crucible / SAT Vocabulary

Adamant

refusing to be persuaded or to change one's mind

The chairman of the library was ____ about his decision to downsize the institution’s adult education programs despite community protest.

Beguile

to charm or enchant someone, sometimes in a deceptive way

The magician's illusions ____ (ed) the audience and left them wondering how he did it.

Disdain

a feeling of contempt or disgust towards something or someone regarded as unworthy.

The CEO's ____ for his employees was apparent in the way he spoke to them.

Contentious

likely to cause argument or disagreement; controversial

The issue of gun control is highly ____ in the United States.

Corroborate

to confirm or give support to a statement or theory

The witness was able to ____ the suspect's alibi.

Deferential

showing respect or submission to a person in authority

The new employee was very ____ to his boss.

Partisan

someone who supports a particular group, idea, or cause without objective judgment

The governor was so ____ that he would not even consider the opposing party's ideas.

Predilection

a preference or liking for something; a bias towards something

Despite his ____ for sweet foods, Dennis is trying to stick to a healthy diet.

Imprudent

not showing care for the consequences of an action; rash.

It was ____ of him to invest all his savings in a risky business venture.

Reproach

to express disapproval in someone for a perceived fault or mistake

The coach ____ the team for their lack of effort during practice.

Rescind

to revoke or cancel a law, order, or agreement

The high school decided to ____ its controversial policy after an outcry from students.

Wily

crafty, sly, and clever; skilled at deceiving others

The fox is a ____ creature, often outsmarting the other animals in the forest with its tricks.

Aberration

a departure from what is normal or expected

The strange behavior of the animals was an ____ that puzzled the scientists.

Abet

to assist or encourage, usually in wrongdoing

The witness was charged with ____ (ing) the thief in his escape.

Abysmal

extremely bad or dreadful

The team's performance was ____, losing every game in the season.