dilemma, statute, creed, wardrobe, consistency: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 140. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. dilemma · noun/dɪˈlɛmə/

   a situation in which a difficult choice must be made between two or more alternatives

   She faced a moral dilemma when she had to choose between telling the truth and protecting her friend.

   Synonyms: predicament, quandary, crisis

   Origin: Originating from the Greek word 'dilemma', which means 'double proposition', composed of 'di-' meaning 'two' and 'lemma' meaning 'premise' or 'assumption'.

2. statute · noun/stætʃuːt/

   a written law passed by a legislative body

   The new statute regulating data privacy was signed into law last week.

   Synonyms: law, regulation, act

   Origin: from Old French 'estat', meaning 'status, condition', from Latin 'status', meaning 'state, condition'

3. creed · noun/krid/

   a system of religious or spiritual beliefs

   The community gathered to celebrate their shared creed during the annual festival.

   Synonyms: doctrine, dogma, belief

   Origin: from Old French 'credo', from Latin 'credo' meaning 'I believe'

4. wardrobe · noun/ˈwɔr.droʊb/

   a tall cupboard or cabinet for storing clothes

   She organized her wardrobe by color to make it easier to choose outfits in the morning.

   Synonyms: closet, armoire, cabinet

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'warderobe', from 'warder' (to guard) + 'robe' (clothing)

5. consistency · noun/kənˈsɪstənsɪ/

   the quality of being consistent or reliable in behavior, performance, or results

   The team's success can largely be attributed to their consistency in practice and preparation.

   Synonyms: uniformity, reliability, steadiness

   Origin: From Latin 'consistens' meaning 'standing firm' or 'stable'