27 September 2024
4 minutes read
List Of 30 GRE Synonym Groups Vocab Words

Key Takeaways
- Organizing GRE synonym groups helps simplify studying by focusing on patterns and subtle differences between similar words.
- Grouping vocab words enhances retention, making the Verbal Reasoning section more manageable without overwhelming memorization.
- Consistent practice with these groups improves performance on key GRE question types like sentence equivalence and text completion.
Half the battle with the GRE isn’t even the test—it’s trying to cram hundreds of vocabulary words into your brain without losing your sanity. Let’s be real: no one enjoys flipping through endless flashcards, wondering if “ambiguous” and “equivocal” are just there to mess with you. The Verbal Reasoning section of the GRE has a sneaky way of making you second-guess even the simplest words.
The truth is, most people don’t struggle with the meanings themselves; it’s the subtle differences between these words that cause all the confusion. You don’t just need to know the words—you need to understand them. But here’s the thing: by grouping similar words together, you can start recognizing patterns and distinctions, making the whole vocab beast a lot more tameable. It’s not a magic solution, but it’s a solid start to acing the GRE vocab game without tearing your hair out.
What Are GRE Synonym Group Vocab Words?
GRE synonym group vocab words are words with similar meanings that are often grouped together to help you understand their subtle differences and nuances. Instead of memorizing individual words in isolation, you categorize them based on their shared meanings, making it easier to recall and apply them during the test.

For example, words like “ambiguous,” “equivocal,” and “vague” might be grouped together because they all relate to unclear meanings, but each has its own specific context. Grouping words like this simplifies the learning process and boosts your chances of answering GRE vocabulary questions correctly.
Where To Use These Words?
You’ll primarily use these GRE synonym group vocab words in the GRE section of Verbal Reasoning, particularly in the sentence equivalence and text completion questions. These questions require you to choose words that fit a specific context, and knowing the nuances between similar words can help you select the most accurate option.
Beyond the GRE test, these words also come in handy for academic writing, professional communication, and even everyday conversations where precise language matters. Understanding these synonyms ensures you can convey ideas more clearly and effectively in any setting.
30 GRE Synonym Group Vocabulary Words You Should Know
When you’re studying for the GRE, facing the Verbal Reasoning section can feel really tough. Understanding subtle differences between similar words is crucial for tackling sentence equivalence and text completion questions. That’s where grouping GRE exam vocab words into synonym clusters comes in handy.
It helps you expand your vocabulary while making it easier to memorize the meanings and nuances of each word. Below is a complete list of 30 GRE synonym group vocabulary words that will not only strengthen your knowledge but also improve your test performance.
Synonym Group | Vocabulary Words | Meanings/Definitions |
---|---|---|
Criticism & Rebuke | Diatribe, Harangue, Castigate, Lambaste, Vituperate, Berate, Excoriate, Rebuke, Reprove, Revile, Objurgate, Inveigh | Strong verbal attack or harsh criticism |
Dishonesty & Deception | Dissemble, Prevaricate, Equivocate, Duplicity, Guile, Spurious, Apocryphal, Ersatz, Perfidy | Mislead, deceive, or disguise the truth |
False & Misleading | Spurious, Specious, Apocryphal, Fallacious, Erroneous, False | Seemingly true but actually false |
Stubbornness & Defiance | Obstinate, Recalcitrant, Intransigent, Refractory | Refusing to change or be persuaded |
Criticism & Defamation | Calumny, Aspersion, Gainsay, Decry, Disparage, Denounce, Derisive, Obloquy, Opprobrium, Impugn | Attacking someone’s reputation or dismissing their actions |
Support & Strengthen | Bolster, Endorse, Support | To provide support or reinforce an argument or idea |
Talkative | Talkative, Chatty, Loquacious | Someone who speaks a lot |
Conclusion
At the end of the day, mastering GRE vocab isn’t about knowing every word in the dictionary. It’s about understanding patterns, nuances, and how words relate to one another. Grouping similar words not only helps you recognize these subtle differences but also makes the learning process far less overwhelming. It’s a practical, manageable way to improve your chances on the test without drowning in endless flashcards.
The trick is to stay consistent, focus on the right groups, and remember: you don’t need to know every word to do well on the GRE—you just need to know enough and understand them well. Keep practicing, and soon, these words will feel more like tools and less like hurdles.
Master the GRE and take a significant step toward graduate school admission with Ambitio as your strategic partner. Our platform provides a comprehensive suite of resources, from expertly designed lessons to personalized feedback, all aimed at helping you secure a score that reflects your true academic ability.
FAQs
What is the GRE test?
The GRE (Graduate Record Examinations) is a standardized test that measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, critical thinking and analytical writing skills. It is required for admission to many graduate programs in the United States and Canada
What is a good GRE score?
A good GRE score depends on the program you are applying to. Most programs provide average GRE scores of admitted students. Aim for a score at or above the program’s average to be competitive. The GRE is scored on a scale of 130-170 for each section, in 1-point increments
How often can I take the GRE?
You can take the GRE once every 21 days, up to five times within a continuous 12-month period. However, ETS recommends that you wait 60 days before retaking the test to allow time for further preparation
What is the GRE cost?
The cost to take the GRE General Test is $205 worldwide. Additional fees may apply for test centers outside the United States, U.S. Territories and Canada, or for changing your test center, date or time
What is the purpose of the GRE?
The GRE is designed to assess a candidate’s readiness for graduate-level academic work. It evaluates skills in verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing, which are essential for success in graduate programs across various fields.
How is the GRE scored?
The GRE General Test is scored on a scale of 130 to 170 for the Verbal and Quantitative sections, with each section scored in 1-point increments. The Analytical Writing section is scored separately on a scale of 0 to 6, in half-point increments. The total score combines the scores from the Verbal and Quantitative sections.
Are there any breaks during the GRE?
Yes, there is a 10-minute break after the third section of the GRE General Test. This break allows test-takers to rest and refresh before continuing with the remaining sections.

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