All ISEE Middle Level Verbal Resources
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
Gaseous
Opaque
Shapely
Amorphous
Inconsistent
Amorphous
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
Brilliant
Joyful
Senile
Sleazy
Hateful
Hateful
"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
Childish
Solid
Argumentative
Pampered
Rude
Rude
"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
Accredited
Considerate
Frank
Appalling
Dominating
Considerate
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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