GRE Vocabulary — Set 155

Set 155 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: cadge, cajole, concede, concoct, concur. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. cadge · verb/kædʒ/

   to obtain or negotiate something through begging or asking for a favor

   He always tries to cadge a free meal from friends when he’s low on cash.

   Synonyms: beg, scrounge, bamboozle

   Origin: The word 'cadge' originates from the Old English 'cæge,' meaning 'to catch.' It has evolved in meaning over time to imply obtaining something through asking or begging.

2. cajole · verb/kəˈdʒoʊl/

   to persuade someone to do something through flattery or gentle urging

   She tried to cajole her parents into allowing her to go to the party by promising to finish her chores early.

   Synonyms: coax, entice, persuade

   Origin: The word 'cajole' comes from French 'cajoler' meaning 'to chatter like a jay' (a type of bird) and is derived from the Old French 'cajole', which means 'to deceive'.

3. concede · verb/kənˈsiːd/

   to admit that something is true or valid after first denying or resisting it

   After hours of debate, she had to concede that his argument was more compelling than hers.

   Synonyms: admit, acknowledge, grant

   Origin: from Latin 'concedere', meaning 'to yield, grant, or allow'; formed by combining 'con-' (together) and 'cedere' (to go or yield)

4. concoct · verb/kənˈkɑkt/

   to create or devise something, often by combining various elements

   The chef decided to concoct a new recipe by combining traditional flavors with modern techniques.

   Synonyms: devise, fabricate, invent

   Origin: from Latin 'concoctus', past participle of 'concoquere', meaning 'to cook together'

5. concur · verb/kənˈkɜr/

   to agree or have the same opinion

   The committee members concurred on the need for a significant budget increase this year.

   Synonyms: agree, consent, assent

   Origin: from Latin 'concurrere', meaning 'to run together'