SAT Vocabulary Level 1 — Set 156

Set 156 of SAT Vocabulary Level 1 covers 5 words: illusion, contrast, peer, momentum, neglect. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. illusion · noun/ɪˈluːʒən/

   a deception or misrepresentation of reality

   The magician's tricks created the illusion of impossible feats, leaving the audience in awe.

   Synonyms: delusion, mirage, misconception

   Origin: from Latin 'illusiō', meaning 'a mocking, deceit, or trick' derived from 'illudere', meaning 'to mock, deceive'

2. contrast · noun/ˈkɑntræst/

   the state of being strikingly different from something else in juxtaposition or close association

   The contrast between the vibrant colors of the painting and the muted tones of the furniture highlighted the artist's intention.

   Synonyms: difference, distinction, disparity

   Origin: from Latin 'contrastare', meaning 'to stand against'

3. peer · noun/pɪr/

   a person of same age, status, or ability as another

   During the group project, she collaborated effectively with her peers to ensure everyone contributed equally.

   Synonyms: equal, colleague, contemporary

   Origin: from Middle English 'pere', from Old French 'per', from Latin 'par', meaning 'equal'.

4. momentum · noun/məˈmɛntəm/

   the quantity of motion of a moving body measured as a product of its mass and velocity

   The car gained significant momentum as it rushed down the hill, making it difficult for the driver to slow down.

   Synonyms: impetus, drive, thrust

   Origin: from Latin 'momentum', meaning 'movement, motion', from 'movere' meaning 'to move'.

5. neglect · verb/nɪˈɡlɛkt/

   to fail to care for or pay attention to something or someone

   The parents were criticized for neglecting their children's education, allowing them to fall behind in school.

   Synonyms: ignore, disregard, overlook

   Origin: from Latin 'neglectus', past participle of 'neglegere', meaning 'to disregard or neglect'