SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 141

Set 141 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: imitate, stifle, quantify, bewilder, implore. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. imitate · verb/ˈɪməˌteɪt/

   to follow or mimic the actions, appearance, or behavior of someone or something

   Children often imitate their parents' behavior, picking up habits and mannerisms as they grow.

   Synonyms: mimic, emulate, copy

   Origin: from Latin 'imitari', meaning 'to copy, simulate, or represent'

2. stifle · verb/ˈstaɪfəl/

   to suppress or constrain something from being expressed or developed

   The harsh criticism from her peers served to stifle her creativity, making her hesitate to share her ideas.

   Synonyms: suppress, smother, restrain

   Origin: Middle English 'stiflen', from Old French 'estouffer', which comes from Latin 'stupare' meaning 'to stifle, suffocate'

3. quantify · verb/ˈkwɑːntɪfaɪ/

   to measure or express the quantity of something

   Researchers often attempt to quantify the impact of climate change on natural ecosystems.

   Synonyms: measure, assess, evaluate

   Origin: from late Latin 'quantificare', meaning 'to determine the quantity of', from 'quantus' meaning 'how much'

4. bewilder · verb/bɪˈwɪldər/

   to confuse or perplex someone completely

   The complex instructions for assembling the furniture bewildered me, leaving me unsure of where to start.

   Synonyms: confuse, perplex, baffle

   Origin: The word 'bewilder' comes from the prefix 'be-' meaning 'thoroughly' and 'wilder', which is derived from the Old English 'wildor,' meaning 'wild or untamed'.

5. implore · verb/ɪmˈplɔr/

   to beg someone earnestly or desperately to do something

   She implored him to stay with her just a little longer, fearing he would leave for good.

   Synonyms: beseech, beg, plead

   Origin: From Middle English 'imploren', from Latin 'implorare', meaning 'to call upon' or 'to beg earnestly'.