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finesse

noun/fəˈnɛs/

definition

intricate and refined delicacy or skill in handling a situation

example

The diplomat handled the negotiations with remarkable finesse, ensuring that all parties felt heard and respected.

synonyms
skilltactgrace
word origin — from French 'finesse', meaning 'refinement' or 'subtlety', derived from Latin 'finis', meaning 'end' or 'limit'.

SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 194

Set 194 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: finesse, papyrus, discontent, fume, drivel. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. finesse · noun/fəˈnɛs/

    intricate and refined delicacy or skill in handling a situation

    The diplomat handled the negotiations with remarkable finesse, ensuring that all parties felt heard and respected.

    Synonyms: skill, tact, grace

    Origin: from French 'finesse', meaning 'refinement' or 'subtlety', derived from Latin 'finis', meaning 'end' or 'limit'.

  2. papyrus · noun/pəˈpaɪərəs/

    a material similar to paper made from the pith of the papyrus plant used in ancient times for writing

    Ancient scribes often wrote important texts on papyrus, showcasing the significance of this early writing material.

    Synonyms: writing material, parchment, paper

    Origin: The word 'papyrus' comes from the Greek 'papuros', which signifies the plant and the material produced from it.

  3. discontent · noun/dɪs.kənˈtɛnt/

    a feeling of dissatisfaction or unhappiness

    The discontent among the employees grew as they felt their hard work was not being recognized.

    Synonyms: displeasure, dissatisfaction, unhappiness

    Origin: from Middle French 'discontent', from the prefix 'dis-' meaning 'away, from' and 'content' meaning 'satisfied'.

  4. fume · noun/fjum/

    a gas or vapor that is usually harmful or irritating

    The factory released toxic fumes into the air, posing a risk to nearby residents.

    Synonyms: smoke, vapor, pollutant

    Origin: Middle English, from the Old French 'fume', from Latin 'fuma', meaning 'smoke, vapor'.

  5. drivel · noun/ˈdrɪvəl/

    silly or nonsensical talk or thinking

    His speech was filled with drivel about conspiracy theories that had no basis in reality.

    Synonyms: nonsense, gibberish, babble

    Origin: The word 'drivel' comes from Middle English 'drivelen,' meaning 'to fall or drop' (from Old English 'drīfan,' meaning 'to drive').