Set 208 · Study 1 / 5

Exit

conformism

noun/kənˈfɔːr.mɪ.zəm/

the tendency to align one's beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors with those of a group or societal norms

The pressure of conformism can often lead individuals to suppress their true identities in favor of group acceptance.

conformitycompliancealignment
word origin — Derived from the Latin word 'conformis', meaning 'shaped like, similar', combining 'con-' (together) and 'formis' (shape, form).

SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 208

Set 208 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: conformism, nicety, diffidence, treacle, circumlocution. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

  1. conformism · noun/kənˈfɔːr.mɪ.zəm/

    the tendency to align one's beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors with those of a group or societal norms

    The pressure of conformism can often lead individuals to suppress their true identities in favor of group acceptance.

    Synonyms: conformity, compliance, alignment

    Origin: Derived from the Latin word 'conformis', meaning 'shaped like, similar', combining 'con-' (together) and 'formis' (shape, form).

  2. nicety · noun/ˈnaɪ.sə.ti/

    a fine detail or distinction in meaning or behavior

    The niceties of the legal contract were carefully reviewed to ensure there were no misunderstandings.

    Synonyms: finesse, subtlety, distinction

    Origin: from Middle French 'nicete', from Latin 'nicetas' meaning 'fineness, delicacy'

  3. diffidence · noun/ˈdɪfɪdəns/

    lack of confidence in one's own ability or worth

    Her diffidence in social situations often made it difficult for her to make new friends.

    Synonyms: shyness, timidity, reserve

    Origin: from Latin 'diffidentia', from 'diffidere', meaning 'to have no trust or confidence in'

  4. treacle · noun/ˈtriː.kəl/

    a thick syrup made from partially refined sugar used as a sweetener or in cooking

    She drizzled golden treacle over the warm pancake to enhance its sweetness.

    Synonyms: molasses, syrup, glue

    Origin: from Middle English trecle, from Old French treacle, from Latin theriaca, from Greek theriakē, originally meaning 'a remedy for poison'

  5. circumlocution · noun/ˌsɜr.kəm.ləˈkuː.ʃən/

    the use of excessive words to express an idea instead of being straightforward

    His circumlocution made it difficult for the audience to grasp his point clearly during the presentation.

    Synonyms: evasion, verbosity, periphrasis

    Origin: From Latin 'circumlocutio', from 'circum-' meaning 'around' and 'locutio' meaning 'speech' or 'talking'.