calculable, terse, tumultuous, tolerable, multifarious: meanings and examples

Learn these 5 words from SAT Vocabulary Level 3 set 278. Each entry includes a definition, example sentence, pronunciation, and synonyms. Use the interactive cards above to practice them.

1. calculable · adjective/ˈkælkjəˌleɪbəl/

   able to be measured or assessed mathematically

   The project's expenses are calculable, making it easier to create a budget.

   Synonyms: measurable, assessable, computable

   Origin: from Latin 'calculabilis', from 'calculare', meaning 'to compute, to count'

2. terse · adjective/tɜrs/

   brief and to the point

   His terse reply left no room for misunderstanding.

   Synonyms: concise, succinct, brief

   Origin: from Latin 'tersus', past participle of 'tergere', meaning 'to wipe off' or 'to cleanse'

3. tumultuous · adjective/tʊˈmʌl.tʃu.əs/

   characterized by disorder, confusion, or disturbance

   The tumultuous relationship between the two countries led to a series of misunderstandings and conflicts.

   Synonyms: turbulent, chaotic, disorderly

   Origin: from Latin 'tumultuosus', from 'tumultus' meaning 'tumult, commotion'

4. tolerable · adjective/ˈtɑː.lər.ə.bəl/

   able to be endured or accepted

   The weather was not ideal, but it was tolerable enough for us to enjoy our picnic.

   Synonyms: bearable, acceptable, endurable

   Origin: from Latin 'tolerabilis', from 'tolerare' meaning 'to endure, to bear'.

5. multifarious · adjective/ˌmʌl.tɪˈfɛr.i.əs/

   having many varied forms or types

   The festival showcased a multifarious array of cultural performances, from traditional folk dances to contemporary music acts.

   Synonyms: varied, diverse, manifold

   Origin: Latin 'multifarius', from 'multi-' meaning 'many' and 'farius' meaning 'kind' or 'sort'