peerless, hazardous, causal, unusual, memorable: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 101. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. peerless · adjective/ˈpɪr.ləs/

   having no equal or match

   The artist was renowned for her peerless talent, captivating audiences with her breathtaking performances.

   Synonyms: incomparable, unmatched, unrivaled

   Origin: The word 'peerless' originates from the Middle English 'pereles', which is derived from the combination of 'peer' meaning equal, and the suffix '-less' meaning without.

2. hazardous · adjective/ˈhæz.ɚ.dəs/

   dangerous or likely to cause harm

   Working with hazardous materials requires strict safety protocols to prevent accidents.

   Synonyms: dangerous, risky, perilous

   Origin: The word 'hazardous' originates from the Middle French term 'hasard,' which means 'risk' or 'chance' and comes from the Spanish 'azar,' meaning 'chance' or 'fortune.'

3. causal · adjective/ˈkɔ.zəl/

   relating to or acting as a cause

   The scientist was eager to establish a causal relationship between the increase in pollution and the decline in local fish populations.

   Synonyms: causative, contributory, instrumental

   Origin: from Latin 'causalis', from 'causa' meaning cause

4. unusual · adjective/ʌnˈjuːʒnəl/

   not common or typical

   The artist's unusual style caught the attention of critics and art enthusiasts alike.

   Synonyms: rare, atypical, uncommon

   Origin: from Latin 'unusualis', meaning 'not customary or common'

5. memorable · adjective/ˈmɛmərəbəl/

   worth remembering or easily remembered because of being special or unusual

   Her wedding was a memorable occasion, filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments.

   Synonyms: unforgettable, notable, remarkable

   Origin: The word 'memorable' originates from the Latin 'memorabilis', meaning 'worthy of memory', from 'memorare', meaning 'to remember'.