Question

Difficulty: MediumRoot Word Analysis

Understanding the foundational roots of English vocabulary provides insight into word definitions. Which definition correctly corresponds to each root-derived term below?

  • AntipathyDeep-seated hostility or strong opposition
  • LucidClearly expressed and easy to understand
  • GregariousSociable and enjoying the company of others
  • CorpulentHaving a bulky and heavy physical body

Answer

Antipathy matches 'Deep-seated hostility or strong opposition', Lucid matches 'Clearly expressed and easy to understand', Gregarious matches 'Sociable and enjoying the company of others', and Corpulent matches 'Having a bulky and heavy physical body'.
Each term is accurately matched by analyzing its base Latin or Greek morpheme: 'anti-' + 'path' (hostility), 'luc-' (clear), 'greg-' (sociable), and 'corp-' (bulky body).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the morphemes in the first term: 'anti-' (against) and 'path' (feeling/emotion).
'Antipathy' refers to a feeling against something, meaning deep-seated hostility.
Root word analysis breaks complex terms into meaningful base units to deduce overall definition.
2
Examine the root 'luc-' (light) in the second term.
'Lucid' describes speech, writing, or thought that sheds light on a subject, making it clear and easy to understand.
The core Latin root 'luc-' signifies clarity and illumination.
3
Examine the root 'greg-' (flock or herd) in the third term.
'Gregarious' describes behavior characteristic of a herd animal, meaning sociable and fond of company.
The suffix '-ious' forms an adjective meaning characterized by the herd instinct.
4
Examine the root 'corp-' (body) in the fourth term.
'Corpulent' refers to having an abundance of physical body, meaning stout or bulky.
The Latin base 'corpus/corp-' directly relates to the physical body.

Key Concept

Root Word Analysis for Synonym Identification
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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