The SAT Reading and Writing section tests your ability to understand complex texts, and a strong vocabulary is your biggest asset. Memorizing lists of words can feel overwhelming, but focusing on high-frequency terms with the right tools makes it manageable. Digital flashcards are one of the most effective ways to learn and retain these words.
This post breaks down 15 essential SAT words, providing clear definitions and examples to help them stick.
15 Essential SAT Vocabulary Words
Focus on understanding the word, its definition, and how it’s used in a sentence. This is far more effective than just memorizing the word itself.
1. Ubiquitous
- Definition: Present, appearing, or found everywhere.
- Example: In our modern world, smartphones have become ubiquitous.
2. Ephemeral
- Definition: Lasting for a very short time.
- Example: The artist's fame was ephemeral, forgotten by the public within a year.
3. Egregious
- Definition: Outstandingly bad; shocking.
- Example: The student's essay was filled with egregious spelling errors.
4. Anachronism
- Definition: Something that is conspicuously old-fashioned or belonging to a period other than that in which it exists.
- Example: A knight using a cell phone in a historical film would be an obvious anachronism.
5. Aesthetic
- Definition: Concerned with beauty or the appreciation of beauty.
- Example: The minimalist aesthetic of the room was calming and clutter-free.
6. Ameliorate
- Definition: To make something bad or unsatisfactory better.
- Example: The new policies were intended to ameliorate the poor working conditions.
7. Benevolent
- Definition: Well-meaning and kindly.
- Example: The benevolent CEO donated a large portion of her salary to charity.
8. Cursory
- Definition: Hasty and therefore not thorough or detailed.
- Example: He gave the report a cursory glance before the meeting started.
9. Didactic
- Definition: Intended to teach, particularly in having moral instruction as an ulterior motive.
- Example: The professor’s didactic speaking style made every lecture feel like a sermon.
10. Enervate
- Definition: To cause someone to feel drained of energy or vitality; weaken.
- Example: The intense heat and humidity enervated the marathon runners.
11. Fastidious
- Definition: Very attentive to and concerned about accuracy and detail.
- Example: The fastidious editor checked every comma and period in the manuscript.
12. Juxtapose
- Definition: To place two things close together for contrasting effect.
- Example: The exhibition juxtaposed modern art with classical sculptures to highlight the differences in style.
13. Meticulous
- Definition: Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise.
- Example: The scientist was meticulous in recording every detail of the experiment.
14. Ostentatious
- Definition: Characterized by a pretentious or showy display designed to impress.
- Example: He bought an ostentatious sports car to show off his new wealth.
15. Superfluous
- Definition: Unnecessary, especially through being more than enough.
- Example: The report was filled with superfluous details that did not add to the main argument.
How to Memorize These Words Effectively
Reading a list once isn't enough. To ensure these words are ready for test day, you need an active recall strategy.
- Create Digital Flashcards: For each word, make a flashcard with the term on one side and the definition on the other. An app like Flashi lets you create and review these decks on your phone, making it easy to study anywhere.
- Write Your Own Sentences: After learning the definition, try writing a unique sentence for each word. This forces your brain to process the meaning actively.
- Review Daily: Spend just 5-10 minutes each day reviewing your flashcards. Consistent, short bursts of study are more effective for long-term memorization than a single long session.
By focusing on key terms and using a simple flashcard-based review system, you can build the vocabulary needed to excel on the SAT.