Some words seem to explain themselves and then mean something different. Tests like them because a quick guess gets them wrong.
Looks like X, means Y
| Word | Looks like | Means |
|---|---|---|
| enervate | energize | weaken |
| noisome | noisy | foul-smelling |
| restive | restful | restless |
| bemused | amused | puzzled |
| temerity | timid | reckless boldness |
| invaluable | not valuable | extremely valuable |
| inflammable | not flammable | flammable |
Pairs one letter apart
- ingenuous (innocent) / ingenious (clever)
- venal (corrupt) / venial (forgivable)
- complacent (smug) / complaisant (eager to please)
- disinterested (impartial) / uninterested (bored)
When dictionaries disagree
Usage changes. Nonplussed, fortuitous, peruse, fulsome and enormity all have a newer meaning that many people use and some dictionaries accept. On a test, use the traditional meaning: it's the one the answer key expects. In your own writing, pick a word nobody can misread.
Words with opposite meanings
Sanction (approve, or penalize) and cleave (split, or cling) each mean two opposite things. Read the sentence around them.
Independent study material, not affiliated with College Board or ETS.