GRE Vocabulary — Set 25

Set 25 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: gambit, modicum, ascetic, coercion, interloper. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. gambit · noun/ˈɡæm.bɪt/

   a calculated move or strategy often used to gain an advantage

   His opening gambit in the negotiation was to offer a significantly higher price for the property, hoping to gain an early advantage.

   Synonyms: strategy, maneuver, ploy

   Origin: Derived from the Italian word 'gambetto', meaning 'to trip' or 'to entrap', which itself comes from 'gamba' meaning 'leg'.

2. modicum · noun/ˈmɑːdɪkəm/

   a small quantity of something

   Despite the chaos, she managed to maintain a modicum of control over the situation.

   Synonyms: bit, ounce, fragment

   Origin: Latin 'modicus', meaning 'moderate' or 'small'.

3. ascetic · noun/əˈsɛtɪk/

   someone who practices severe self-discipline and abstains from indulgence for religious or spiritual reasons

   The ascetic spent years in solitude, focusing on his spiritual growth and renouncing all earthly pleasures.

   Synonyms: hermit, recluse, monk

   Origin: from the Greek 'asketes', meaning 'one who exercises' or 'practices self-discipline'

4. coercion · noun/koʊˈɜrʒən/

   the practice of persuading someone to do something by using force or threats

   The employees were subjected to coercion by their manager to meet unrealistic sales targets.

   Synonyms: compulsion, duress, pressure

   Origin: from Latin 'coercionem', which means 'to restrain, repress'

5. interloper · noun/ˈɪntərˌloʊpər/

   a person who interferes in the affairs of others without invitation or basis

   The crowd was quick to identify the interloper who tried to join their private meeting without an invitation.

   Synonyms: intruder, meddler, trespasser

   Origin: The word 'interloper' originates from the early 17th century, derived from the Latin word 'interlopare', which means 'to trade illegally or against the rules'. It combines 'inter-' (between) and 'looper' (one who loops into a space).