SAT Vocabulary Level 1 — Set 87

Set 87 of SAT Vocabulary Level 1 covers 5 words: elegance, consequence, duration, elite, onset. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. elegance · noun/ˈɛləɡəns/

   gracefulness and style in appearance or manner

   The elegance of her dress captivated everyone at the gala, making her the center of attention.

   Synonyms: grace, style, finesse

   Origin: from Latin 'elegantia', meaning 'tastefulness, refinement'

2. consequence · noun/ˈkɑːn.sɪ.kwəns/

   a result or effect of an action or condition

   The consequence of not studying regularly is often poor grades on exams.

   Synonyms: result, outcome, effect

   Origin: from Latin 'consequentia', meaning 'that which follows'

3. duration · noun/dʊˈreɪ.ʃən/

   the length of time that something lasts

   The duration of the concert was longer than we had expected, lasting nearly three hours.

   Synonyms: length, period, span

   Origin: from Latin 'duratio', meaning 'a lasting, continuance', from 'durare' meaning 'to last or endure'.

4. elite · noun/ɪˈlit/

   a selected group that is superior in terms of ability or qualities to the rest of a group

   The academic elite often shape the policies that affect education across the country.

   Synonyms: select, privileged, upper crust

   Origin: from French 'élite', meaning 'to choose, select', derived from the Latin 'eligere', meaning 'to choose'

5. onset · noun/ˈɑnˌsɛt/

   the beginning or start of something

   The onset of winter brought colder temperatures and shorter days.

   Synonyms: beginning, start, inception

   Origin: Middle English, from the verb 'onsetten', meaning to set upon or attack, derived from the prefix 'on-' + 'set'.