More Essential Words
These 12 words round out the highest-value SAT vocabulary — common enough to show up regularly, specific enough to trip up an unprepared reader.
Practice this set for free — no account needed. Loads 12 flashcards into the learner.
Practice in the free learnerHow to study this set
This is a good final set to drill right before test day, since every word here has appeared repeatedly on real released SAT material.
All 12 flashcards
Swap question and answerabate
to become less intense or to reduce something in intensity
The storm finally began to abate by evening.
accolade
an expression of praise or an award
She received an accolade for her research.
ambivalent
having mixed or contradictory feelings about something
He felt ambivalent about accepting the job offer.
cogent
clear, logical, and convincing
She made a cogent argument for the change.
deference
respectful submission to someone’s wishes or authority
He listened with deference to his mentor’s advice.
discern
to perceive or recognize something, often something subtle
It was hard to discern any difference between the two versions.
enervate
to weaken or drain of energy
The long heat wave left everyone enervated.
garrulous
excessively talkative, especially about trivial matters
The garrulous passenger talked the entire flight.
incisive
sharp, direct, and getting to the point clearly
Her incisive comments cut straight to the problem.
lament
to express deep sorrow or regret about something
They lamented the loss of the old building.
nuance
a subtle difference in meaning, tone, or expression
The translation lost some of the original’s nuance.
wistful
having a feeling of vague or regretful longing
She gave a wistful smile when remembering her childhood home.
What to learn next
That completes SAT Vocabulary. GRE Vocabulary, in this same subject, is a good next step if you’re also preparing for grad school.