SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 154

Set 154 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: scoff, incise, politicize, proselytize, beautify. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. scoff · verb/skɔf/

   to speak to someone or about something in a mocking or contemptuous way

   When he suggested a budget-friendly vacation, his friends scoffed at the idea, insisting that only luxury trips were worth their time.

   Synonyms: mock, deride, jeer

   Origin: Middle English 'scoffen', from Old Norse 'skoppa' meaning to mock or to jeer.

2. incise · verb/ɪnˈsaɪz/

   to cut into something with a sharp instrument

   The surgeon will incise the skin carefully to minimize scarring after the procedure.

   Synonyms: cut, slice, carve

   Origin: from Latin 'incidere', meaning 'to cut into' ('in-' meaning 'into' and 'caedere' meaning 'to cut')

3. politicize · verb/pəˈlɪtɪˌsaɪz/

   to make something political or to give it a political character

   The debate over climate change often tends to politicize scientific research, affecting public perception and policy decisions.

   Synonyms: politic, politicise, politicization

   Origin: Derived from the word 'politic,' which comes from the Latin 'politicus' meaning 'of citizens or city,' and traces back to the Greek 'politikos,' meaning 'of or relating to citizens.' The verb form emerged in the mid-20th century.

4. proselytize · verb/ˈprɑs.ə.lɪ.taɪz/

   to convert or attempt to convert someone from one belief or religion to another

   The missionary traveled to various countries to proselytize among different communities, hoping to share his faith.

   Synonyms: convert, persuade, evangelize

   Origin: The word 'proselytize' comes from the Greek word 'proselytos', meaning 'newcomer' or 'convert'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century.

5. beautify · verb/ˈbjuː.tɪ.faɪ/

   to make more attractive or appealing

   The community came together to beautify the local park by planting flowers and installing new benches.

   Synonyms: enhance, adorn, embellish

   Origin: The word 'beautify' originates from the Middle French 'beauté', which means 'beauty', coupled with the English suffix '-ify', meaning 'to make' or 'to cause to become'.