Vocab 4 AP English Language and Composition

Ambiguous

open to multiple interpretations; unclear

Apprehensive

anxious or fearful about the future

Colloquial

using informal, everyday language

Cynical

distrustful of others’ motives or sincerity; believing people are motivated by self-interest

Detached

emotionally uninvolved; impartial or distant

Disdainful

showing contempt or scorn

Endearing

inspiring affection or liking

Exculpatory

clearing someone of blame or guilt

Facetious

joking or jesting, often inappropriately; meant to be humorous and not serious

Foreboding

a sense of impending doom or evil

Gentle

mild, kind, and tender

Hollow

without significance or real value; empty or meaningless

Impartial

unbiased; fair and just

Indignant

feeling anger or annoyance at something perceived as unfair

Insolent

boldly rude or disrespectful

Lofty

of imposing height; also, acting with a superior attitude

Mirthful

full of joy and laughter

Obdurate

stubbornly refusing to change one’s opinion or course of action

Penitent

feeling or showing remorse for wrongdoing

Pretentious

attempting to impress by affecting greater importance or knowledge than is necessary or actually possessed

Risible

causing laughter; laughable

Stern

strict, serious, or severe

Straightforward

direct and clear; honest without evasion

Uneasy

uncomfortable, anxious, or worried

Wry

using dry, especially mocking, humor; also, twisted or contorted in expression