GRE Vocabulary — Set 3

Set 3 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: convoluted, audacious, gullible, inchoate, recalcitrant. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. convoluted · adjective/ˈkɑnvəˌluːtɪd/

   intricate and complicated in structure or meaning

   The plot of the movie was so convoluted that many viewers struggled to follow the storyline.

   Synonyms: intricate, complicated, complex

   Origin: from Latin 'convolutus', the past participle of 'convolvere', meaning 'to roll together, to coil up'

2. audacious · adjective/ɔˈdeɪʃəs/

   showing a willingness to take surprisingly bold risks

   Her audacious plan to climb the highest mountain in the world without any gear surprised everyone in the expedition team.

   Synonyms: bold, daring, fearless

   Origin: from Latin 'audax', meaning 'bold'

3. gullible · adjective/ˈɡʌl.ə.bəl/

   easily deceived or tricked

   Many children are often considered gullible, easily falling for pranks and tricks played by their friends.

   Synonyms: naive, credulous, trusting

   Origin: The word 'gullible' originates from 'gull', which comes from the late Middle English term 'gullen', meaning to deceive or cheat, and the suffix '-ible', which indicates ability.

4. inchoate · adjective/ɪnˈkoʊ.ɪt/

   not fully formed or developed

   The artist's inchoate ideas began to take shape as she experimented with different styles and techniques.

   Synonyms: embryonic, nascent, rudimentary

   Origin: from Latin 'inchoatus', past participle of 'inchoare' meaning to begin

5. recalcitrant · adjective/rɪˈkæl.sə.trənt/

   stubbornly resistant to authority or control

   The teacher struggled to manage the recalcitrant students who refused to follow the classroom rules.

   Synonyms: stubborn, obstinate, resistant

   Origin: from Latin 'recalcitrantem', meaning 'kicking back', from 're-' (back) and 'calx' (heel)