Vocabulary Puzzles The Fun Way to Ace Standardized Tests

Part 1 


Learning Definitions and Using Words in Context
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Step 2: Matching Columns
Work as long as necessary on these matching columns. Try to match every word with its
definition. If you read carefully the sentences in which the words appear, you will in most
cases be able to figure out the meaning of the words. Work diligently at figuring them out;
it is a wonderful way to learn vocabulary. If there are words you cannot match, use the
flashcards at the back of the book to complete this section. When you have finished, read
through the matching columns four times. Each time you read the definition try to use the
word in a new sentence. Slow down when you come to the word you’re studying and write
it. In this exercise, there’s no need to write out the entire sentence or even the phrase in
which it appears, unless you think that would help you remember the word.
DEFINITION
SAMPLE SENTENCE
_____ to make a mistake; err
A.) The planner BLUNDERed when he
scheduled two games on the same field
at the same time.
_____ speaking in a lofty style, as 
B.) Shakespeare’s villain Iago DELUDEd 
an orator
Othello into thinking he was his friend.
_____ person with power to decide; 
C.) Her disappointing SAT scores 
judge; referee
DIMINISHed her chances of getting
into the college of her choice.
_____ unfairly characterizing as 
D.) The home plate umpire is the 
unimportant
ARBITER of balls and strikes.
_____ deceive; trick
E.) Unable to find any information that
might damage his opponent, the politician
resorted to insults and INNUENDOes.
_____ shake or wave, as a weapon
F.) The recommended GRATUITY when
dining out is 15 percent of the bill.
_____ tip to a waiter
G.) He BRANDISHed the knife to frighten
his attacker.
_____ lessen; reduce
H.) The cheerleaders were FERVENT in
their show of support for the team.
_____ the quality of being genuine
I.) The candidates spoke
GRANDILOQUENTly in the debate.
_____ disparaging hint or 
J.) In the nasty political race, the two 
implication about someone
candidates made DISPARAGING 
or something
remarks about each other’s abilities.
_____ showing great intensity of
K.) The Great Seal of the United States 
spirit; passionate; heated
assures the AUTHENTICITY of paper
money.
Vocabulary Puzzles
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