SAT Vocabulary Level 2 — Set 54

Set 54 of SAT Vocabulary Level 2 covers 5 words: belated, paradoxical, ambulatory, pressing, gaseous. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. belated · adjective/bɪˈleɪ.tɪd/

   occurring or done after the expected or usual time

   She received a belated birthday gift from her friend, which she appreciated despite its lateness.

   Synonyms: overdue, tardy, late

   Origin: from the past participle of 'belate', which combines 'be-' (a prefix) and 'late', deriving from Old English 'læt'

2. paradoxical · adjective/ˌpærəˈdɑksɪkəl/

   seemingly contradictory or opposed to common sense but nonetheless perhaps true

   It's paradoxical that an increase in technology can lead to a decrease in personal connections among people.

   Synonyms: contradictory, incongruous, perplexing

   Origin: from Greek 'paradoxos', meaning 'contrary to expectation'

3. ambulatory · adjective/ˈæm.bjʊ.leɪ.tɔːr.i/

   capable of walking or moving around

   After the surgery, the patient was ambulatory and able to walk around the ward without assistance.

   Synonyms: mobile, walking, moveable

   Origin: Middle English, from Latin 'ambulatory', from 'ambulare' meaning 'to walk'

4. pressing · adjective/ˈprɛsɪŋ/

   requiring immediate attention or action

   The committee addressed the pressing need for improved healthcare services in the community.

   Synonyms: urgent, critical, imperative

   Origin: Derived from the verb 'press', which comes from Old French 'presser', originating from Latin 'pressare', meaning to press or squeeze.

5. gaseous · adjective/ˈɡeɪ.ʃəs/

   relating to or having the characteristics of a gas

   The gaseous emissions from the factory were closely monitored to ensure they met environmental standards.

   Synonyms: vaporous, aeriform, ethereal

   Origin: From Latin 'gaseus', which derives from 'gas' + the suffix '-eous' indicating a relationship.