SSAT Middle Level Verbal : Using Prefixes, Suffixes, and Roots to Identify Synonyms

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

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Example Questions

Example Question #56 : Synonyms: Roots From Latin

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

AMBIVALENT

Possible Answers:

Unsure

Unprepared 

Unwieldy 

Unsettling  

Vexing 

Correct answer:

Unsure

Explanation:

The prefix "ambi-" means both, as in “ambidextrous,” which means equally skilled with both hands. In this context, “ambivalent” means to be in two minds, to be in both minds, to be unsure. To provide further help, “vexing” means puzzling or confusing; something that is “unsettling” makes you nervous and uncomfortable; to be “unprepared” means to be not ready.

Example Question #57 : Synonyms: Roots From Latin

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

OMNIPRESENT

Possible Answers:

Ubiquitous 

All-knowing

Carnivore 

Omnivore 

All-powerful

Correct answer:

Ubiquitous 

Explanation:

The prefix omni- means everywhere or everything, as in “omnipotent,” which means all-powerful or “omniscient,” which means all-knowing. The word “omnipresent” means present everywhere; this is closest in definition to “ubiquitous,” which means existing everywhere. To provide further help, a “carnivore” is a creature that only eats meat; an “omnivore” is a creature that eats meat and vegetables, that eats everything.  

Example Question #58 : Synonyms: Roots From Latin

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

GRIEVANCE

Possible Answers:

Stipulation 

Review 

Explanation 

Support 

Complaint

Correct answer:

Complaint

Explanation:

"Grieve" is a root word that signifies a problem or negative situation. A grievance most nearly means a complaint or alert someone to a problem.

Example Question #59 : Synonyms: Roots From Latin

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

EGOIST

Possible Answers:

Self-centered person

Professional performer

Diminutive child

Calm spectator

Preeminent politician

Correct answer:

Self-centered person

Explanation:

The root word "ego" indicates someone who is self-centered. An "egoist" is a person who is overly focused on their own interests. "Diminutive" means small. "Preeminent" means a notable or leading figure.

Example Question #61 : Synonyms: Roots From Latin

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

ABBREVIATE

Possible Answers:

Inscribe

Choose

Detect

Shorten

Announce

Correct answer:

Shorten

Explanation:

"Abbreviate" is a verb derived from the Latin root brevis, meaning short. "Shorten" is a verb with the same meaning, so it is the correct answer.

Example Question #61 : Synonyms: Roots

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

FOOLHARDY

Possible Answers:

Laughable 

Cautious 

Careful 

Dull-witted 

Reckless 

Correct answer:

Reckless 

Explanation:

The root word "fool" does give a negative implication to the word, however should not be an indicator that the word is related to strict intelligence. Instead, "foolhardy" generally describes someone who disregards consequences or asks impulsively.

Example Question #1 : Synonyms: Roots From Other Languages

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

ALCHEMY

Possible Answers:

Challenging

Cheerfulness

Alcove

Chemistry

Cheep

Correct answer:

Chemistry

Explanation:

"Alchemy" is closest in meaning to "chemistry." Both words share a semantic root. The other words have meanings which are not at all related to alchemy.

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