adapt, simplify, resolve, enact, halt: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 1 set 294. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. adapt · verb/əˈdæpt/

   to adjust to new conditions or circumstances

   As the climate changes, many species must adapt to their new environments to survive.

   Synonyms: adjust, modify, acclimate

   Origin: from Latin 'adaptare', which means 'to fit to' (ad- 'to' + aptare 'to fit, to make fit')

2. simplify · verb/ˈsɪmpləˌfaɪ/

   to make something easier to understand or do

   To help students grasp complex concepts, teachers often simplify the material by breaking it down into smaller sections.

   Synonyms: clarify, streamline, ease

   Origin: from Latin 'simplificare', from 'simplus' meaning 'simple' + 'facere' meaning 'to make'

3. resolve · verb/rɪˈzɑlv/

   to find a solution to a problem or decide on a course of action

   The committee worked tirelessly to resolve the ongoing disputes among the community members.

   Synonyms: determine, decide, settle

   Origin: From Latin 'resolvere', meaning 'to loosen, release, or unbind'

4. enact · verb/ɪˈnækt/

   to make a bill or proposal law by formal approval

   The government decided to enact new legislation to address climate change and promote renewable energy sources.

   Synonyms: legislate, pass, ratify

   Origin: From Latin 'enactare', which combines 'in-' meaning 'in' and 'actare' meaning 'to act'.

5. halt · verb/hɔlt/

   to stop or bring to an end

   The government decided to halt all construction projects until further notice.

   Synonyms: stop, cease, terminate

   Origin: The word 'halt' comes from Middle English 'halten', which is derived from Old English 'halten', meaning 'to hold' or 'to stop'.