Proficient — Set 73

Set 73 of Proficient covers 5 words: impeccable, sublime, gratuitous, factious, subversive. Each entry below includes its definition, an example sentence, and synonyms — practice them with the interactive cards above.

1. impeccable · adjective/ɪmˈpɛkəbl/

   faultless or flawless to the highest degree

   Her performance in the play was impeccable, receiving praise from everyone in the audience.

   Synonyms: perfect, flawless, spotless

   Origin: from Latin 'impeccabilis', meaning 'not to be blamed', from 'in-' (not) + 'peccare' (to sin)

2. sublime · adjective/səˈblaɪm/

   of such excellence grandeur or beauty as to inspire great admiration or awe

   The view of the mountains at sunset was truly sublime, making everyone feel peaceful and amazed.

   Synonyms: majestic, glorious, splendid

   Origin: from Latin 'sublimis', meaning 'high' or 'uplifted'

3. gratuitous · adjective/ɡrəˈtuː.ɪ.təs/

   given or done free of charge; uncalled for or lacking good reason

   The movie was full of gratuitous violence, which made it less enjoyable for some viewers.

   Synonyms: free, unnecessary, unwarranted

   Origin: Latin 'gratuitas' meaning 'free of charge'

4. factious · adjective/ˈfæk.ʃəs/

   relating to or characterized by internal conflict or factional strife

   The factious group within the organization often argued about what direction to take.

   Synonyms: divisive, factional, contentious

   Origin: The word 'factious' comes from the Latin 'factiosus', meaning 'given to making factions'.

5. subversive · adjective/səbˈvɜrsɪv/

   intending to undermine or overthrow an established system or authority

   The group wrote subversive pamphlets to challenge the government's authority.

   Synonyms: undermining, revolutionary

   Origin: from Latin 'subvertere', meaning 'to turn from below'