intimate, acute, consequent, incidental, chronic: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 160. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. intimate · adjective/ˈɪntɪmət/

   closely acquainted or private in nature

   She shared her intimate thoughts with her closest friends during the gathering.

   Synonyms: close, personal, familiar

   Origin: From Latin 'intimus', meaning 'innermost, deepest'; related to 'in' meaning 'in' or 'within'.

2. acute · adjective/əˈkut/

   having a sharp or pointed edge or tip

   The artist carefully chose an acute angle for the sculpture to create a dynamic appearance.

   Synonyms: sharp, pointed, keen

   Origin: from Latin 'acutus', meaning 'sharp' or 'pointed'

3. consequent · adjective/ˈkɑnsɪkwənt/

   following as a result or effect

   The heavy rainfall caused flooding in many areas, and the consequent damage to homes was extensive.

   Synonyms: subsequent, resulting, ensuing

   Origin: from Latin 'consequentem', meaning 'following after'

4. incidental · adjective/ˌɪn.sɪˈdɛn.təl/

   occurring by chance or as a minor consequence

   The incidental expenses of the project were much lower than we anticipated, making it more profitable than expected.

   Synonyms: accidental, minor, secondary

   Origin: from Latin 'incidens', present participle of 'incidere' meaning 'to fall upon, to happen' which combines 'in-' (upon) and 'cadere' (to fall)

5. chronic · adjective/ˈkrɑː.nɪk/

   lasting for a long time or recurring often

   She had to visit the doctor regularly because of her chronic pain.

   Synonyms: persistent, ongoing, long-term

   Origin: from the Greek 'chronikos', meaning 'of time', from 'chronos', meaning 'time'