dysfunctional, predictive, contradictory, judgmental, acetic: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 67. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. dysfunctional · adjective/dɪsˈfʌŋkʃənl/

   not operating normally or properly

   The team's dysfunctional communication led to repeated misunderstandings and frustrated members.

   Synonyms: malfunctioning, impaired, faulty

   Origin: The word 'dysfunctional' comes from the prefix 'dys-' meaning 'bad' or 'difficult', combined with 'functional', which derives from the Latin word 'functionem' meaning 'performance' or 'working'.

2. predictive · adjective/prɪˈdɪktɪv/

   relating to or having the ability to predict something

   The predictive analytics used by the company allowed them to forecast sales trends with remarkable accuracy.

   Synonyms: foreseeable, anticipatory, prophetic

   Origin: from the Latin 'praedictivus', meaning 'foretelling', based on 'praedicere', meaning 'to proclaim beforehand'

3. contradictory · adjective/ˌkɑːntrəˈdɪktɔːri/

   characterized by elements that are in opposition or disagreement

   His contradictory statements about the plan left everyone confused about what he actually intended to do.

   Synonyms: opposing, conflicting, incompatible

   Origin: from Latin 'contradictorius', from 'contradictus', meaning 'to speak against'

4. judgmental · adjective/ˌdʒʌdʒˈmɛn(t)l/

   tending to form opinions or make decisions about others based on personal criteria

   Her judgmental attitude towards those who choose a different lifestyle makes it difficult for her to form genuine friendships.

   Synonyms: critical, disparaging, evaluative

   Origin: The word 'judgmental' is derived from the noun 'judgment,' which comes from the Old French 'jugement,' and the Latin 'judicium,' meaning 'judgment, decision.' The suffix '-al' is added to form the adjective.

5. acetic · adjective/əˈsiːtɪk/

   relating to or containing acetic acid

   The acetic properties of vinegar make it an effective preservative in food preparation.

   Synonyms: vinegar, sour, tangy

   Origin: from Latin 'aceticus', from 'acetum' meaning vinegar