benefactor, improvisation, interdependence, apparition, parity: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 2 set 68. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. benefactor · noun/ˈbɛnəˌfæktər/

   a person who provides financial support or assistance to a person or organization

   The nonprofit organization was able to launch several new initiatives thanks to the generous benefactor who pledged significant financial support.

   Synonyms: patron, supporter, donor

   Origin: from Latin 'benefactor', from 'bene' meaning 'well' and 'facere' meaning 'to do'

2. improvisation · noun/ˌɪmprəvaɪˈzeɪʃən/

   the act of creating or performing something spontaneously without preparation

   The actor's improvisation during the rehearsal added an unexpected humor to the scene.

   Synonyms: spontaneity, extemporization, ad-libbing

   Origin: From Latin 'improvisatio', from 'improvisus', meaning 'unforeseen' or 'not foreseen'.

3. interdependence · noun/ˌɪntɚdɪˈpɛndəns/

   the mutual reliance between two or more groups, individuals, or systems

   The interdependence of the global economy means that fluctuations in one country can impact markets worldwide.

   Synonyms: mutual reliance, interconnectedness, dependence

   Origin: The word 'interdependence' comes from the prefix 'inter-' meaning 'between' or 'among,' combined with 'dependence,' which derives from the Latin 'dependere,' meaning 'to hang from' or 'to rely on.'

4. apparition · noun/ˌæp.əˈrɪʃ.ən/

   a ghostly figure or unexpected sight

   Late at night, a mysterious apparition appeared in the old, abandoned house, sending chills down the spine of anyone who saw it.

   Synonyms: ghost, specter, manifestation

   Origin: from Middle French 'apparition', from Late Latin 'apparitio', from Latin 'apparere' meaning 'to appear'.

5. parity · noun/ˈpær.ɪ.ti/

   the quality or state of being equal or equivalent

   The government is working towards achieving gender parity in the workplace to ensure equal opportunities for all employees.

   Synonyms: equality, equivalence, sameness

   Origin: from Latin 'paritas', from 'par' meaning 'equal'