a statement that is obviously true and says nothing new or interesting
example
It’s a truism that hard work often leads to success, but many people still expect shortcuts.
synonyms
platitudebanalityaxiom
word origin — Originating from the Latin word 'truismus' and from the French word 'truisme', which refer to a statement that is self-evident.
SAT Vocabulary Level 3 — Set 75
Set 75 of SAT Vocabulary Level 3 covers 5 words: truism, condescension, boor, magnate, ignominy. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.
truism · noun/ˈtru.ɪ.zəm/
a statement that is obviously true and says nothing new or interesting
It’s a truism that hard work often leads to success, but many people still expect shortcuts.
Synonyms: platitude, banality, axiom
Origin: Originating from the Latin word 'truismus' and from the French word 'truisme', which refer to a statement that is self-evident.
condescension · noun/ˌkɑndɪˈsɛnʃən/
an attitude of patronizing superiority
Her condescension towards her colleagues was evident when she dismissed their ideas without consideration.
Synonyms: patronization, disdain, superiority
Origin: Derived from the late Latin 'condescensio', from 'condescendere' meaning 'to descend together', which implies a sense of superiority.
boor · noun/bʊr/
a rude or unmannerly person
At the party, he acted like a total boor, interrupting everyone and making rude comments.
Synonyms: oaf, lout, clod
Origin: The word 'boor' originates from the Middle Dutch 'boer,' meaning 'farmer' or 'peasant,' and it came to denote a person of low social standing, leading to its current meaning of a rude or unmannerly person.
magnate · noun/ˈmæɡ.neɪt/
a wealthy and influential person in a specific industry or field
The real estate magnate expanded his portfolio by acquiring several new high-rise buildings in the city.
Synonyms: tycoon, baron, mogul
Origin: from Latin 'magnas' meaning 'great', from 'magnus' meaning 'great' or 'large'
ignominy · noun/ˈɪɡnəˌmɪni/
public shame or disgrace
After the scandal, he faced public ignominy, which tarnished his reputation forever.
Synonyms: shame, dishonor, disgrace
Origin: from Latin 'ignominia', from 'in-' + 'nomen' meaning 'name' or 'reputation'