catholic, vivid, intense, theoretical, vast: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 182. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. catholic · adjective/ˈkæθlɪk/

   including a wide variety of things diverse or broad in interests or beliefs

   Her tastes in music are quite catholic, ranging from classical to contemporary genres.

   Synonyms: diverse, eclectic, broad

   Origin: from Latin 'catholicus', from Greek 'katholikos', meaning 'universal'

2. vivid · adjective/ˈvɪv.ɪd/

   producing powerful feelings or strong, clear images in the mind

   The artist's vivid colors brought the landscape to life, making it feel almost magical.

   Synonyms: bright, intense, vibrant

   Origin: from Latin 'vividus', meaning 'lively' or 'full of life'

3. intense · adjective/ɪnˈtɛns/

   existing or occurring in a high degree or strength

   The intense pressure of the situation made it difficult for him to think clearly.

   Synonyms: extreme, severe, powerful

   Origin: from Latin 'intensus', the past participle of 'intendere' meaning 'to stretch out, to aim at'.

4. theoretical · adjective/θiˈɔrəˌtɪkəl/

   relating to the general principles or concepts of a subject rather than its practical applications

   The research paper focused on the theoretical framework of the study, outlining the fundamental principles that guided the investigation.

   Synonyms: abstract, hypothetical, conceptual

   Origin: The word 'theoretical' originates from the Greek word 'theōrētikos', meaning 'fit for viewing' or 'pertaining to theory', which is derived from 'theōrein', meaning 'to look at, consider'.

5. vast · adjective/væst/

   very great in size, amount, or extent

   The vast majority of the population supported the new policy.

   Synonyms: immense, extensive, enormous

   Origin: from Latin 'vastus' meaning 'void, desolate, waste'