askew, hazy, conspicuous, dogmatic, commendable: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 255. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. askew · adjective/əˈsku/

   not in a straight or level position

   The picture hung askew on the wall, causing a distraction during the presentation.

   Synonyms: askance, awry, crooked

   Origin: Middle English askewe, from Old Norse askjú, meaning 'off to one side'

2. hazy · adjective/ˈheɪ.zi/

   not clear or distinct; clouded or vague in appearance or understanding

   After the heavy rain, the landscape appeared hazy, obscured by a thick layer of mist.

   Synonyms: misty, cloudy, vague

   Origin: The word 'hazy' originates from the early 19th century, derived from the noun 'haze,' which comes from Middle English 'haes,' meaning a mist or vapor.

3. conspicuous · adjective/kənˈspɪkjuəs/

   easily seen or noticed

   The conspicuous signs along the highway ensured that drivers couldn't miss the upcoming exit.

   Synonyms: obvious, noticeable, prominent

   Origin: from Latin 'conspicuus', meaning 'clear, visible'; from 'conspicere', meaning 'to look at, to catch sight of'

4. dogmatic · adjective/dɔɡˈmætɪk/

   stubbornly holding on to beliefs or opinions regardless of evidence or reasoning

   Her dogmatic approach to politics often alienated those who held differing opinions.

   Synonyms: doctrinaire, opinionated, rigid

   Origin: The word 'dogmatic' originates from the Greek 'dogmatikos', which means 'pertaining to doctrine'.

5. commendable · adjective/kəˈmɛndəbl/

   worthy of praise or approval

   Her commendable efforts in volunteering at the local shelter made a significant impact on the community.

   Synonyms: praiseworthy, admirable, laudable

   Origin: from Latin 'commendabilis', from 'commendare', meaning 'to entrust or recommend'