ISEE Middle Level Verbal : Synonyms: Suffixes from Anglo-Saxon

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for ISEE Middle Level Verbal

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Example Questions

Example Question #196 : Using Prefixes, Suffixes, And Roots To Identify Synonyms

Select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the word in capital letters.

FORMLESS

Possible Answers:

Gaseous

Opaque

Shapely

Amorphous

Inconsistent

Correct answer:

Amorphous

Explanation:

Stay as close as possible to the original word, for there are many tempting wrong answers. When something is "formless," it has no definite shape. This certainly is the case for "gaseous" things (since they are "gas like"). Also, "inconsistent" speech is lacking the general form that speech should have. That is, it lacks proper consistency. The word "amorphous" literally means without form. The word "morph" means take on a new form or shape. The prefix "a-" means without, as in "atypical," meaning not typical or without features that are typical.

Example Question #1 : Synonyms: Suffixes From Anglo Saxon

Select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the word in capital letters.

LOATHSOME

Possible Answers:

Brilliant

Joyful

Senile

Sleazy

Hateful

Correct answer:

Hateful

Explanation:

"Loathsome" means deserving of hatred or repulsive, so "hateful" is the correct answer, as "hateful" can mean deserving hatred. To help you, "senile" means physically and/or mentally weakened with age, someone who is "sleazy" is gross and immoral, and "joyful" means very happy.

Example Question #2 : Synonyms: Suffixes From Anglo Saxon

Select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the word in capital letters.

CHURLISH

Possible Answers:

Childish

Solid

Argumentative

Pampered

Rude

Correct answer:

Rude

Explanation:

"Churlish" means rude. The best choice is "rude" since it is a part of the definition of "churlish." Considering the other choices, "childish" means immature, "congealed" means changed into a solid state, and "fusty" means old-fashioned.

Example Question #3 : Synonyms: Suffixes From Anglo Saxon

Select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the word in capital letters.

SELFLESS

Possible Answers:

Accredited

Considerate

Frank

Appalling

Dominating

Correct answer:

Considerate

Explanation:

The suffix "-less" means lacking, so "selfless" means concerned with the needs of others and not selfish, making “considerate" the correct answer. “Appalling” means disgusting, horrendous, or dreadful; “dominating” means in control; “accredited” means officially recognized or given credit for; and “frank” means candid and honest.

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