Last week we talked about some tips and tricks for effective vocabulary study, and we know you’re now prepared to practice using words in context, expand your knowledge of synonyms and antonyms, and use a multi-media approach to word practice and review.

Now all you need are the words to study! This week we’ll look at twenty-six words that make frequent appearances in the SAT and GRE vocabulary and reading comprehension sections. Ready? Here we go:

acquiesce

Acquiesce is a verb meaning to give in, comply, or agree to. Use this word when you want to make clear that this agreement is not necessarily by choice. When you acquiesce to something, you’re saying that you’ll go along with it, even if you previously opposed it, or continue to oppose it on a philosophical if not actual basis.

Example: The receptionist did not want to let me wait for you in your hotel room, and it took half an hour’s argument, plus a call to your father, before he would acquiesce and let me in.

burgeon

Burgeon means to grow or expand rapidly. This verb is often used to describe the action of something organic, such as a plant or a population, but can also be used when talking about something intangible.

Example: Many people are worried about the burgeoning national debt, but until politicians are willing to cut the military budget, it will continue to grow.

corroborate

Corroborate means to confirm or support, often using additional evidence or examples.

Example: The new witness for the defense was able to corroborate the defendant’s claim that he was out of the country when the murder was committed.

distend

The verb distend means to swell or expand beyond the normal margins, usually due to internal pressure. Something that is distended is unnaturally swollen. This term is often used in the medical field.

Example: The body of the deer that was hit by a car yesterday quickly became distended as it decomposed in today’s hot sunshine.

euphonious

The adjective euphonious comes from the Greek roots eu (“good”) and phone (“voice” or “sound”). You can see these roots in other common words such as eulogy (the “good words” often said at a funeral) and telephone (“far-away voice”). A euphonious sound is one that is pleasant and enjoyable to listen to.

Example: Her voice is so euphonious I would enjoy listening to her read the telephone directory.

Use the tips we outlined last week to practice these words, and check back tomorrow for the next group.