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expensive

adjective/ɪkˈspɛnsɪv/

definition

costing a lot of money

example

The latest smartphone model is very expensive, often costing over a thousand dollars.

synonyms
costlyhigh-priceddear
word origin — from Latin 'expendere', meaning 'to weigh out, pay out'

expensive, physiological, decisive, spectacular, transformative: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 155. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

  1. expensive · adjective/ɪkˈspɛnsɪv/

    costing a lot of money

    The latest smartphone model is very expensive, often costing over a thousand dollars.

    Synonyms: costly, high-priced, dear

    Origin: from Latin 'expendere', meaning 'to weigh out, pay out'

  2. physiological · adjective/ˌfɪz.i.əˈlɑː.dʒɪ.kəl/

    relating to the branch of biology that deals with the normal functions of living organisms and their parts

    The physiological effects of exercise on the human body can significantly improve overall health.

    Synonyms: biological, organic, bodily

    Origin: from Greek 'physiologia', meaning 'study of nature', from 'phusis' (nature) and 'logia' (study of)

  3. decisive · adjective/dɪˈsaɪsɪv/

    able to make decisions quickly and effectively

    Her decisive leadership during the crisis inspired confidence in the entire team.

    Synonyms: determined, resolute, conclusive

    Origin: from Latin 'decisivus', meaning 'to cut off, to determine', from 'decidere', meaning 'to cut off, to decide'

  4. spectacular · adjective/spɛkˈtækjələr/

    strikingly impressive or beautiful

    The fireworks display over the city was truly spectacular, lighting up the night sky with brilliant colors.

    Synonyms: remarkable, stunning, magnificent

    Origin: derived from Latin 'spectacularis', meaning 'of or pertaining to a spectacle'

  5. transformative · adjective/trænsˈfɔrmətɪv/

    causing a marked change in someone or something

    The therapist's transformative approach helped her clients achieve significant personal growth.

    Synonyms: transformational, revolutionary, life-changing

    Origin: The word 'transformative' originates from the Latin word 'transformare', which means 'to change in shape or form', combining 'trans-' meaning 'across' or 'beyond' and 'formare' meaning 'to form'.