GRE Vocabulary — Set 66

Set 66 of GRE Vocabulary covers 5 words: articulate, assiduous, astute, baleful, audible. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. articulate · adjective/ɑrˈtɪk.jə.lɪt/

   able to express ideas clearly and effectively in speech or writing

   The articulate speaker captivated the audience with her clear and engaging presentation.

   Synonyms: eloquent, expressive, fluent

   Origin: from Latin 'articulatus', meaning 'jointed, distinct, clear', from the verb 'articulare', meaning 'to divide into joints, to express clearly'

2. assiduous · adjective/əˈsɪd.ju.əs/

   showing great care, attention, and effort

   Her assiduous research on the topic led to groundbreaking discoveries in the field of medicine.

   Synonyms: diligent, industrious, attentive

   Origin: from Latin 'assiduus', meaning 'sitting' or 'sitting beside', which derives from 'assidere', meaning 'to sit beside or near'.

3. astute · adjective/əˈstut/

   having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one’s advantage

   Her astute observations during the negotiation helped the company secure a better deal.

   Synonyms: perceptive, shrewd, insightful

   Origin: Late Latin 'astutus', from 'astutia' meaning 'cleverness', derived from 'astute', meaning sharp or keen.

4. baleful · adjective/ˈbeɪl.fəl/

   threatening harm or evil

   The baleful glare of the dark clouds suggested a storm was imminent, striking fear into the hearts of all who saw it.

   Synonyms: noxious, malevolent, sinister

   Origin: From Middle English baleful, from Old English bæle + ful, meaning 'having or causing evil'.

5. audible · adjective/ˈɔːdəbl/

   capable of being heard

   The teacher gave an audible explanation that everyone in the classroom could hear clearly.

   Synonyms: hearable, perceivable, discernible

   Origin: from Latin 'audibilis', from 'audire' meaning 'to hear'