High-Frequency Words You Must Know for SAT "Words in Context" Questions
Vocabulary plays a crucial role in mastering SAT "Words in Context" questions. These questions assess your ability to understand the meanings of words or phrases based on the context in which they are used. To tackle these questions effectively, a strong vocabulary is essential. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of vocabulary, highlight high-frequency words commonly tested by the SAT, and provide actionable tips for expanding your word knowledge.
Why Is Vocabulary Important for "Words in Context" Questions?
"Words in Context" questions challenge you to:
- Determine the precise meaning of a word based on its usage in a sentence or passage.
- Distinguish between nuanced meanings of similar words.
- Select the most logical and relevant word or phrase to complete a sentence.
Expanding your vocabulary can significantly enhance your ability to:
- Save time: Familiarity with high-frequency words reduces the time spent deciphering answer choices.
- Improve accuracy: A strong vocabulary helps you eliminate incorrect options and choose the best fit for the context.
High-Frequency Words Commonly Tested on the SAT
Based on past tests, certain words tend to appear more frequently in SAT "Words in Context" questions. These high-frequency words often have nuanced meanings that challenge students to understand their use in context. Here are some examples:
Sample Questions Featuring High-Frequency Words
Below are sample questions to illustrate how these words are tested in context:
"The storm continued to batter the coastline throughout the night, with strong winds and relentless rain causing extensive damage. By morning, however, the intensity of the storm began to ______, allowing emergency response teams to assess the destruction and begin recovery efforts."
(Trap Type: Contradiction) "Intensify" means to grow stronger, which contradicts the context of the storm lessening in severity.
(Correct Answer) "Abate" means to lessen or reduce, aligning perfectly with the description of the storm decreasing in intensity.
(Trap Type: Illogical) "Augment" means to increase or add to, which does not fit the passage's context.
(Trap Type: Misfocus) "Obscure" means to hide or make unclear, which does not align with the passage's focus on the storm’s intensity.
"Known for her philanthropy and advocacy for underserved communities, the organization’s founder was widely regarded as a ______ leader, inspiring others through her kindness and unwavering commitment to social justice."
(Trap Type: Opposite Meaning) "Malevolent" means having ill intentions, which contradicts the positive tone of the passage.
(Correct Answer) "Benevolent" means kind and well-meaning, matching the description of the founder's philanthropy and advocacy.
(Trap Type: Tone Misalignment) "Indifferent" implies a lack of interest or concern, which is inconsistent with the founder’s commitment to social justice.
(Trap Type: Misfocus) "Authoritarian" refers to a strict or controlling leadership style, which doesn’t align with the leader’s kindness.
"The exhibit’s curator sought to ______ traditional works of art with contemporary pieces, creating a dialogue between the old and the new that challenged visitors to reconsider their understanding of artistic expression."
(Trap Type: Contradiction) "Dismantle" means to take apart, which doesn’t align with the passage’s focus on combining art styles.
(Correct Answer) "Juxtapose" means to place side by side for comparison, perfectly matching the curator’s intent of creating a dialogue between traditional and contemporary art.
(Trap Type: Illogical) "Overshadow" implies one piece dominating another, which isn’t the intent of the exhibit.
(Trap Type: Misfocus) "Replicate" means to copy, which doesn’t match the intent of the curator to compare different styles.
Why Does the SAT Test These Words?
The SAT selects words that require nuanced understanding, ensuring students can apply vocabulary knowledge in practical contexts. High-frequency words often have:
- Multiple Meanings: Words like "abate" and "curtail" can shift meanings based on context.
- Subtle Differences: Similar words, like "tenuous" and "perfunctory," challenge students to choose the precise fit.
- Academic Relevance: These words frequently appear in college-level readings, preparing students for academic success.
Examples of additional high-frequency words include "mitigate," "redress," "exemplify," and "convoluted." To see more high-frequency words in the SAT, join our PrepDigitalSAT Daily Study Plan for personalized guidance and interactive practice!
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