ISEE Middle Level Verbal : Synonyms: Suffixes from Other Languages

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for ISEE Middle Level Verbal

varsity tutors app store varsity tutors android store

Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Synonyms: Suffixes From Other Languages

Select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the word in capital letters.

SPECIFY

Possible Answers:

Generalize

Identify

Fake

Suggest

Recognize

Correct answer:

Identify

Explanation:

The word "specify" is related to the word "species." Although we use this in biology to discuss particular classes of animals, the word "species" has a broader definition that comes from its use in logic. When we talk about a general class of things, we call that its "genus." (We do this in biology as well.) The members of that general class are its "species." They are "specific" members—you can see how all of these words are related. When something is "specified," it is pointed out, or made specific and thus can be said to be "identified." This is the best option among those provided. Do not be tricked by "recognize," which is close in meaning to this but not exactly the same. Something can be recognized without being specifically identified.

Example Question #2 : Synonyms: Suffixes From Other Languages

Select the answer choice that is closest in meaning to the word in capital letters.

NOTIFY

Possible Answers:

Instill

Inform

Bother

Rest

Provide

Correct answer:

Inform

Explanation:

"Notify" is a verb meaning inform or bring to the attention of, so the answer choice closest in meaning is "inform" a verb that means notify. Considering the other choices, none are close in meaning to "notify": "bother," when used as a verb, means annoy; "rest," when used as a verb, means relax and take a break in order to regain energy; and "provide" means give.

Learning Tools by Varsity Tutors