SAT Vocabulary Level 1 — Set 83

Set 83 of SAT Vocabulary Level 1 covers 5 words: prerequisite, deficit, fraud, dusk, curiosity. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. prerequisite · noun/priˈrɛkwɪzɪt/

   something that is required as a prior condition for something else to happen or exist

   A strong understanding of algebra is a prerequisite for taking advanced calculus courses.

   Synonyms: requirement, condition, necessity

   Origin: from Latin 'prae' meaning 'before' + 'requirere' meaning 'to require'

2. deficit · noun/ˈdɛf.ɪ.sɪt/

   a deficiency or lack of something

   The country is facing a significant budget deficit, which has resulted in cuts to essential services.

   Synonyms: shortfall, deficiency, lack

   Origin: from Latin 'deficere' meaning 'to fail' or 'to lack'

3. fraud · noun/frɔd/

   deceptive act or representation intended to secure an unfair or unlawful gain

   The company was involved in a massive fraud scheme that defrauded thousands of customers.

   Synonyms: deception, trickery, scam

   Origin: Middle English, from Old French 'fraude' (deceit) and from Latin 'fraus' (deception, injury)

4. dusk · noun/dʌsk/

   the time of day immediately following sunset when the sky is partially illuminated

   As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sky transformed into a beautiful canvas of colors during dusk.

   Synonyms: twilight, evening, twilight hour

   Origin: Middle English 'dusk', from Old Norse 'deskr', meaning 'to grow dark'.

5. curiosity · noun/kjʊˈrɪ.ə.sɪ.ti/

   a strong desire to know or learn something

   Her curiosity about the universe led her to pursue a career in astrophysics.

   Synonyms: inquisitiveness, curiosity, wonder

   Origin: The word 'curiosity' originates from the Latin 'curiositas', which derives from 'curiosus' meaning 'careful, diligent, eager to know'.