SAT Vocabulary Level 1 — Set 84

Set 84 of SAT Vocabulary Level 1 covers 5 words: excessive, controversial, swift, distinctive, deficient. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. excessive · adjective/ɪkˈsɛsɪv/

   more than is necessary, normal, or desirable

   The excessive noise from the construction site made it difficult to concentrate on my work.

   Synonyms: exorbitant, immoderate, undue

   Origin: from Latin 'excessivus', from 'excedere' meaning 'to go beyond'

2. controversial · adjective/ˌkɑntrəˈvɝːʃəl/

   likely to create public disagreement or controversy

   The politician's controversial policies on immigration sparked heated debates among voters.

   Synonyms: debatable, contentious, divisive

   Origin: From Latin 'controversus', meaning 'turned against'.

3. swift · adjective/swɪft/

   moving or capable of moving with great speed

   The swift river flowed rapidly, carving a path through the landscape.

   Synonyms: fast, quick, rapid

   Origin: from Old English 'swift', of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'snel' and German 'schnell'.

4. distinctive · adjective/dɪˈstɪŋk.tɪv/

   marking something as different or unique

   Her distinctive voice made her stand out among all the contestants.

   Synonyms: unique, different, special

   Origin: from Latin 'distinctivus', from 'distinguere' meaning 'to distinguish'

5. deficient · adjective/dɪˈfɪʃ.ənt/

   lacking an adequate quantity or quality

   The patient's diet was deficient in essential vitamins, leading to various health issues.

   Synonyms: insufficient, lacking, inadequate

   Origin: from Latin 'deficiens', present participle of 'deficere', meaning to fail or be lacking