unqualified, inconvenient, proficient, serene, indecent: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 195. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. unqualified · adjective/ʌnˈkwɑlɪfaɪd/

   not having the necessary skills or knowledge to do something

   Despite her enthusiasm, she was unqualified for the position due to her lack of experience.

   Synonyms: incompetent, unskilled, inadequate

   Origin: The word 'unqualified' comes from the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' and 'qualified' from the Latin 'qualificare', meaning 'to make of a certain quality'.

2. inconvenient · adjective/ɪnˌkənˈvinjənt/

   causing difficulty or discomfort

   The train's delay at such an inconvenient time made me late for my important meeting.

   Synonyms: awkward, troublesome, unsuitable

   Origin: from Middle French 'inconvenient', and Latin 'inconveniens', meaning 'inconvenient, unsuitable'; composed of 'in-' (not) + 'conveniens' (suitable)

3. proficient · adjective/prəˈfɪʃ.ənt/

   having a high degree of skill or competence in a particular area

   She is proficient in multiple programming languages, making her a valuable asset to the tech team.

   Synonyms: skilled, competent, adept

   Origin: The word 'proficient' comes from the Latin 'proficere,' meaning 'to advance or make progress,' which is a combination of 'pro-' (forward) and 'facere' (to do or make).

4. serene · adjective/səˈrin/

   calm, peaceful, and untroubled

   After a long week at work, I found solace in the serene landscape of the mountains, where my mind could finally relax.

   Synonyms: calm, tranquil, peaceful

   Origin: from Latin 'serenus', meaning clear, calm, or serene

5. indecent · adjective/ɪnˈdiːsənt/

   offensive to accepted standards of morality or decency

   The film was given an adult rating due to its indecent content, which included graphic scenes that many found offensive.

   Synonyms: improper, inappropriate, offensive

   Origin: The word 'indecent' comes from Middle French 'indécent' (early 17th century) and from Latin 'indecens', meaning 'not fitting', from 'in-' (not) + 'decens' (fitting, becoming), which is derived from 'decere' (to be fitting).