elementary, timely, incredible, institutional, enjoyable: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 237. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. elementary · adjective/ˌɛl.əˈmɛn.t̬ɚ.i/

   relating to the most basic or fundamental aspects

   Before tackling advanced mathematics, it's essential to master the elementary concepts of addition and subtraction.

   Synonyms: basic, fundamental, primary

   Origin: from Middle French 'élémentaire', from Latin 'elementarius', from 'elementum' meaning 'element'

2. timely · adjective/ˈtaɪm.li/

   occurring at a suitable or opportune time

   The timely intervention of the paramedics saved the patient's life.

   Synonyms: opportune, prompt

   Origin: The word 'timely' originates from the Old English 'timely,' meaning 'in time, at the right time,' derived from 'time' (from Old English 'tima').

3. incredible · adjective/ɪnˈkrɛdɪbəl/

   difficult to believe; extraordinary

   The magician's incredible performance left the audience in awe.

   Synonyms: unbelievable, astonishing, extraordinary

   Origin: from Latin 'incredibilis', from 'in-' meaning 'not' + 'credibilis' meaning 'believable'

4. institutional · adjective/ˌɪn.stəˈtuː.ʃən.əl/

   relating to an established organization or foundation

   The institutional framework of the organization ensures that all policies are consistently applied across all departments.

   Synonyms: organizational, structural, systemic

   Origin: The word 'institutional' comes from the Late Latin 'institutionalis', which is derived from 'institutio', meaning 'an establishment' or 'arrangement', and 'instituere', meaning 'to establish'.

5. enjoyable · adjective/ɪnˈdʒɔɪəbl/

   pleasing or satisfying to the senses or mind

   The picnic in the park was an enjoyable experience filled with laughter and good food.

   Synonyms: pleasant, delightful, amusing

   Origin: The word 'enjoyable' is derived from the verb 'enjoy', which comes from the Old French 'enjoier', meaning 'to give joy', and from the Latin 'in' (into) and 'gaudere' (to rejoice).