Vocabulary and Word Analysis Flashcards

What does the Latin root 'bene' mean, as found in words like 'benefit' and 'benevolent'?

Answer: Good or well

The Latin root 'bene' means 'good' or 'well,' which is reflected in words like 'benefit' (something good) and 'benevolent' (well-wishing).

Which word is a synonym for 'ambiguous' as it might appear in a VCLA reading passage?

Answer: Vague

'Vague' is a synonym for 'ambiguous,' both meaning unclear or open to more than one interpretation.

What does the prefix 'mis-' mean in words like 'misinform' and 'misplace'?

Answer: Wrongly or badly

The prefix 'mis-' means 'wrongly' or 'badly,' as seen in 'misinform' (to inform incorrectly) and 'misplace' (to place wrongly).

In a VCLA passage, the word 'concise' most nearly means:

Answer: Brief and clear

'Concise' means expressing much in few words—brief and clear without unnecessary elaboration.

Which suffix changes the adjective 'effective' into a noun meaning the quality of being effective?

Answer: -ness

Adding '-ness' to an adjective creates a noun meaning the quality or state of that adjective—'effectiveness.'

The word 'excerpt' in a VCLA passage most likely refers to:

Answer: A short passage taken from a longer work

An 'excerpt' is a short passage or quotation taken from a longer piece of writing, such as a book or article.