GRE Vocabulary — Set 121

Set 121 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: nuanced, divergent, complicit, vindictive, conspicuous. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. nuanced · adjective/ˈnu.ɑnst/

   characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression

   The director's nuanced portrayal of the protagonist revealed the intricacies of her inner conflict.

   Synonyms: subtle, refined, detailed

   Origin: The word 'nuanced' originates from the French word 'nuance', which means 'shade' or 'tone', derived from the Latin 'nubes', meaning 'cloud'.

2. divergent · adjective/dɪˈvɜr.dʒənt/

   tending to be different or develop in different directions

   The divergent interests of the committee members made it difficult to reach a consensus on the new policy.

   Synonyms: diverse, varying, differing

   Origin: From Latin 'divergens', present participle of 'divergere', meaning 'to turn apart'.

3. complicit · adjective/kəmˈplɪsɪt/

   involved with others in illegal activity or wrongdoing

   The investigation revealed that several executives were complicit in the financial fraud scheme.

   Synonyms: collaborative, implicated, involved

   Origin: The word 'complicit' comes from the Latin 'complicare,' meaning 'to fold together,' which combines 'com-' (together) and 'plicare' (to fold).

4. vindictive · adjective/vɪnˈdɪktɪv/

   having or showing a strong desire for revenge

   Her vindictive behavior toward her former coworker was evident when she spread false rumors to sabotage his career.

   Synonyms: vengeful, spiteful, malicious

   Origin: from Latin 'vindicativus', meaning 'to take vengeance, avenge', from 'vindicare', meaning 'to claim, to set free, to avenge'

5. conspicuous · adjective/kənˈspɪkjuəs/

   easily seen or noticed

   The bright red sign was conspicuous against the dull gray background, making it impossible to miss.

   Synonyms: obvious, apparent, noticeable

   Origin: from Latin 'conspicuus', meaning 'visible, clear', from 'conspicere' meaning 'to look at, to see'.