ISEE Middle Level Verbal : Synonyms: Suffixes

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

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Example Questions

Example Question #203 : Using Prefixes, Suffixes, And Roots To Identify Synonyms

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

SELFLESS

Possible Answers:

Appalling

Considerate

Dominating

Accredited

Frank

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.

Example Question #31 : Synonyms: Suffixes

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

SPECIFY

Possible Answers:

Suggest

Identify

Recognize

Fake

Generalize

Correct answer:

Identify

Explanation:

The word "specify" is related to the word "species." Although we use this in biology to discuss particular classes of animals, the word "species" has a broader definition that comes from its use in logic. When we talk about a general class of things, we call that its "genus." (We do this in biology as well.) The members of that general class are its "species." They are "specific" members—you can see how all of these words are related. When something is "specified," it is pointed out, or made specific and thus can be said to be "identified." This is the best option among those provided. Do not be tricked by "recognize," which is close in meaning to this but not exactly the same. Something can be recognized without being specifically identified.

Example Question #32 : Synonyms: Suffixes

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

NOTIFY

Possible Answers:

Provide

Rest

Bother

Instill

Inform

Correct answer:

Inform

Explanation:

"Notify" is a verb meaning inform or bring to the attention of, so the answer choice closest in meaning is "inform" a verb that means notify. Considering the other choices, none are close in meaning to "notify": "bother," when used as a verb, means annoy; "rest," when used as a verb, means relax and take a break in order to regain energy; and "provide" means give.

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