SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 26

Set 26 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: intolerance, malice, valor, bifurcation, stampede. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. intolerance · noun/ɪnˈtɑlərəns/

   lack of acceptance for beliefs views or behavior different from one's own

   Her intolerance for differing opinions often led to heated debates during class discussions.

   Synonyms: bigotry, bias, prejudice

   Origin: Derived from Latin 'intolerantia' which means 'unbearing' or 'unendurable', combining 'in-' (not) and 'tolerare' (to tolerate).

2. malice · noun/ˈmæl.ɪs/

   the intention or desire to do evil or harm to others

   The villain's malice was evident in every step of his sinister plan to destroy the hero's life.

   Synonyms: malevolence, hostility, spite

   Origin: From Middle English 'malice', from Old French 'malice', from Latin 'malitia', meaning 'badness, wickedness'.

3. valor · noun/ˈvælɚ/

   great courage in the face of danger, especially in battle

   The soldier was awarded a medal of valor for his bravery during the fierce battle.

   Synonyms: courage, bravery, valiance

   Origin: from Middle English 'valour', from Old French 'valeur', from Latin 'valor', meaning 'value, worth'

4. bifurcation · noun/ˌbɪfərˈkeɪʃən/

   the division of something into two branches or parts

   The bifurcation of the river created two distinct ecosystems, each supporting different forms of wildlife.

   Synonyms: division, split, branching

   Origin: The word 'bifurcation' comes from the Latin 'bifurcatio', which is derived from 'bifurcus', meaning 'two-pronged'.

5. stampede · noun/stæmˈpid/

   a sudden, panicked rush of people or animals

   The stampede of spectators toward the exit created a chaotic scene after the concert ended.

   Synonyms: panic, rush, stampede

   Origin: The word 'stampede' comes from the Spanish verb 'stampida', meaning 'a sudden rush or commotion', which in turn comes from 'stampido', derived from 'stampida' (to stampede). The term entered English in the mid-19th century, particularly in the context of cattle drives in the American West.