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
_____ thrifty; economical
A.) It would be considered GAUCHE not
to tip the host in a fine restaurant.
_____ lowly and degrading
B.) The Oscar-winning film won
ACCOLADEs from all the critics.
_____ mystery or riddle
C.) Her behavior was so CAPRICIOUS
that we never knew what to expect.
_____ obvious in a defiant way
D.) A feeling of EUPHORIA overcame her
when she realized she’d won the lottery.
_____ honor or recognition for 
E.) His BLATANT lies didn’t fool anyone.
something well done
_____ shy or quiet
F.) You probably wouldn’t be so 
IRASCIBLE in traffic jams if you made
sure to leave enough time to get to your
destination.
_____ easily angered
G.) It’s still an ENIGMA as to how ancient
people built the giant statues on Easter
Island.
_____ great happiness and joy
H.) Most would consider picking up garbage
at the side of the road to be MENIAL
work.
_____ unpredictable
I.) The DEMURE girl didn’t say much
when he tried to strike up a conversation.
_____ socially unrefined
J.) They lived such a FRUGAL life that
despite their simple jobs they had man-
aged to save over a million dollars by the
time they retired.
Vocabulary Puzzles
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