dependable, confident, instrumental, martial, vacant: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 15. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. dependable · adjective/dɪˈpɛndəbl/

   capable of being relied on or trusted

   She is a dependable friend who always keeps her promises.

   Synonyms: reliable, trustworthy, steady

   Origin: from Middle English 'dependable', from 'depend' + '-able'

2. confident · adjective/ˈkɑːnfɪdənt/

   firmly trusting in one's abilities or qualities

   She felt confident in her ability to lead the project to success.

   Synonyms: self-assured, assured, poised

   Origin: from Latin 'confidentem' (present participle of 'confidere' meaning 'to trust')

3. instrumental · adjective/ˌɪnstrəˈmɛntəl/

   serving as a means or instrument for achieving something

   The teacher was instrumental in fostering a love for science among her students.

   Synonyms: helpful, useful, beneficial

   Origin: from Latin 'instrumentalis', from 'instrumentum', meaning 'instrument'

4. martial · adjective/ˈmɑr.ʃəl/

   relating to war or the armed forces

   The military academy is known for its rigorous martial training that prepares cadets for leadership in combat situations.

   Synonyms: military, warlike, soldierly

   Origin: from Middle English 'marcial', derived from Old French 'marcial', from Latin 'martialis', from 'Mars', the Roman god of war.

5. vacant · adjective/ˈveɪ.kənt/

   not occupied or filled

   The vacant lot next to our house has been a gathering place for neighborhood kids to play.

   Synonyms: empty, unoccupied, available

   Origin: from Latin 'vacans', meaning 'empty, free, or void'