Set 147 · Study 1 / 5

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severe

adjective/sɪˈvɪr/

of a serious or extreme nature

The region is facing severe drought conditions, threatening the livelihoods of many farmers.

harshacutegrave
word origin — Middle English 'severe', from Old French 'severe', from Latin 'severus' meaning 'stern, serious, severe'

SAT Vocabulary Level 1 — Set 147

Set 147 of SAT Vocabulary Level 1 covers 5 words: severe, drastic, exemplary, sublime, mild. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. severe · adjective/sɪˈvɪr/

    of a serious or extreme nature

    The region is facing severe drought conditions, threatening the livelihoods of many farmers.

    Synonyms: harsh, acute, grave

    Origin: Middle English 'severe', from Old French 'severe', from Latin 'severus' meaning 'stern, serious, severe'

  2. drastic · adjective/ˈdræstɪk/

    having severe or far-reaching consequences

    The government implemented drastic measures to combat the rising unemployment rates.

    Synonyms: extreme, severe, radical

    Origin: from Greek 'drastikos' meaning 'active, effective'

  3. exemplary · adjective/ɪɡˈzɛmpləri/

    serving as a model or example worthy of imitation

    Her exemplary leadership skills have inspired her team to achieve their goals and set new standards of success.

    Synonyms: model, commendable, admirable

    Origin: from Latin 'exemplaris', from 'exemplum' meaning 'example'

  4. sublime · adjective/səˈblaɪm/

    of such excellence or beauty as to inspire great admiration or awe

    The artist's latest painting is nothing short of sublime, capturing the light and color of the sunset with breathtaking detail.

    Synonyms: majestic, magnificent, glorious

    Origin: from Latin 'sublimis', meaning 'uplifted, high, or exalted'

  5. mild · adjective/maɪld/

    not strong or severe gentle and moderate

    The weather was quite mild for winter, allowing us to enjoy a pleasant day outdoors.

    Synonyms: gentle, moderate, soft

    Origin: Old English 'milde', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'mild' and German 'mild'