GRE word list
2,892 words · page 7 of 10
- naive adjective lacking experience or knowledge; unsophisticated, especially in a way that may be innocent or unwise
- narcissist noun a person who is excessively self-absorbed and preoccupied with their own appearance, abilities, or importance, often to the detriment of others
- nascent adjective existing or developing at an early stage; just beginning to form or emerge
- natty adjective well-dressed, neat, and attractive in appearance
- nebulous adjective unclear, vague, or indistinct in form, meaning, or boundaries
- needle verb To provoke or tease someone into a reaction, often in a subtle or persistent way; to goad or irritate with indirect or repeated prompting (contrasted with the common meaning of a thin, sharp object used for sewing or piercing).
- nefarious adjective morally wrong or evil; involving deceit or wrongdoing
- negate verb to deny or cancel the effect or validity of (a statement, action, or claim)
- neglect noun or verb the act of failing to care for, attend to, or provide for something or someone; a failure to give proper attention or support
- negligent adjective showing a lack of care, attention, or responsibility; failing to do something that should be done
- negligible adjective so small or insignificant that it can be disregarded or considered without importance
- neologism noun a newly coined word or expression, especially one that has not yet been widely adopted or accepted in a language
- neophyte noun a person who is new to a subject, activity, or field of study, especially one with little or no experience or knowledge
- nettle verb to irritate, annoy, or provoke
- nettlesome adjective causing irritation or discomfort, especially in a persistent or unpleasant way
- neutralize verb to reduce or eliminate the effect, intensity, or harmful nature of something, especially a threat or chemical agent, so that it becomes harmless or balanced
- nevertheless conjunction although this is true, or despite this fact, in contrast to what might be expected or assumed
- nexus noun a central point or connection linking different elements or systems together
- nicety noun a small, thoughtful act or quality that reflects care, attention, or refinement in behavior or appearance
- nihilism noun the philosophical belief that life lacks inherent meaning, value, or purpose; the doctrine that nothing exists or has intrinsic worth.
- nihilist noun a person who believes that life has no inherent meaning, value, or purpose
- nimble adjective able to move or act quickly and easily, especially with agility or precision
- noble adjective possessing high moral character or integrity; dignified and honorable
- noisome adjective offensive in smell; repugnant due to a foul odor
- nominal adjective of or relating to a name or value that is not substantial or actual; not significant in amount or importance
- nonchalant adjective showing a lack of concern or interest; indifferent to what is happening around one
- nonentity noun a person or thing that is insignificant, unimportant, or lacking in substance or distinction
- nonplus verb to confuse or disorient; to leave someone unable to respond or act due to surprise or uncertainty
- nonplused adjective feeling confused or startled by something unexpected or surprising
- nonplussed adjective feeling confused or puzzled, especially by something unexpected or surprising
- nontrivial adjective not trivial; significant, complex, or requiring substantial effort or thought
- normative adjective relating to or establishing a standard or norm; conforming to accepted rules or expectations
- nostrum noun a supposed remedy or cure, especially one that is unproven or fraudulent
- notion noun a general idea or concept, often formed without full knowledge or evidence
- notoriety noun the state or quality of being widely known, especially for something controversial or unpleasant
- notwithstanding conjunctive adverb despite something; in spite of a fact or condition
- novel adjective uncommon or original in character; not typical or conventional
- noxious adjective causing harm, discomfort, or illness; offensive or unpleasant in smell, taste, or effect
- nuance noun a subtle difference or variation in meaning, tone, or quality
- nullify verb to render ineffective or invalid; to cancel out the effect of
- numinous adjective conveying a sense of the sacred, divine, or supernatural; inspiring awe or reverence
- numismatic adjective relating to coins, currency, or the study of coins
- obdurate adjective refusing to change one's opinion or attitude, especially in the face of strong evidence or pressure
- obeisance noun a formal act of respect or submission, often involving a bow or gesture
- obfuscate verb to make something unclear or difficult to understand, often by using confusing or misleading language
- objective adjective having a clear, specific goal or purpose; not influenced by personal feelings or biases
- objurgate verb to sharply reprimand or censure someone, often in a harsh or angry tone
- obliging adjective willing to assist or comply; showing a readiness to help or fulfill duties or requests
- oblique adjective not direct or straightforward; indirect or at an angle, especially in meaning or direction
- oblivious adjective not aware of or paying attention to something; lacking awareness or knowledge
- obloquy noun severe public criticism or scorn, especially in a harsh or unrelenting manner
- obscure adjective not clearly visible, known, or understood; difficult to perceive or explain
- obsequious adjective excessively submissive or servile, often to the point of being unwarranted or inappropriate
- obsolete adjective no longer in use or applicable; outdated due to being replaced by a newer or more effective alternative
- obstinate adjective refusing to change one's mind or yield, even in the face of strong evidence or opposition
- obstreperous adjective loudly noisy, unruly, or defiantly disruptive
- obstructionist noun a person who deliberately impedes or hinders progress, often through resistance or obstruction in a political or bureaucratic context
- obtain verb to acquire or secure through effort or action
- obtrude verb to appear or be present in a way that is intrusive or noticeable, often in a way that is unwelcome or disruptive
- obtuse adjective lacking in sharpness or clarity; slow to understand or respond; dull in perception or intelligence
- obviate verb to make something unnecessary or redundant by eliminating its need or relevance
- occlude verb to block or close off completely, especially a passage or opening
- occult adjective hidden or secret, especially in a mystical or esoteric sense; not openly known or revealed
- odious adjective extremely unpleasant or hateful; morally offensive
- odium noun a strong feeling of hatred or contempt toward someone or something
- offhand adjective or adverb without careful thought or deliberation; casually or spontaneously;
- officious adjective excessively eager to interfere in matters that do not concern them, often in a meddling or intrusive way
- offset verb to balance or counteract a negative effect or action by a positive one; to reduce the impact of something by introducing a contrasting or compensating influence
- olfactory adjective relating to the sense of smell
- ominous adjective signaling or suggesting danger, bad outcomes, or impending disaster
- omnipresent adjective existing or occurring everywhere at all times; present in all places and all moments
- omniscience noun the state or quality of knowing all things, especially all facts, knowledge, or events, without limitation or error
- omniscient adjective having or showing knowledge of all things; all-knowing
- onerous adjective causing great burden or difficulty; heavy or burdensome
- onset noun the beginning or initial stage of something, especially a process, condition, or event
- opaque adjective not transparent; difficult to understand or interpret
- opine verb to express an opinion or judgment, especially in a formal or considered manner
- opportunism noun the practice of taking advantage of favorable circumstances for personal gain, often without regard for moral or ethical considerations
- oppress verb to treat someone unfairly or harshly, especially by imposing excessive burdens or restrictions
- opprobrium noun public disgrace or disrepute; intense disapproval or contempt from a community or society
- optimal adjective being the best possible condition or state; ideal
- optimum noun the best possible condition or state; the ideal or most favorable outcome
- opulence noun the state or quality of being rich or luxurious, especially in material possessions or extravagance
- opulent adjective richly furnished or decorated; characterized by excessive wealth or luxury
- oration noun a formal speech or address, especially one delivered in a public or ceremonial setting
- oratorio noun a large-scale musical composition, typically in several movements, featuring soloists and a choir, that tells a narrative or expresses a religious or moral theme without staging or acting
- ordain verb to formally decide or establish (a rule, practice, or institution) by authority or official decree
- ornate adjective excessively decorative or elaborate in design or style
- ornery adjective impatient, irritable, or easily angered; stubborn and difficult to manage
- orotund adjective having a smooth, resonant, or pleasing tone; especially, sounding rich and full in voice or speech
- orthodox adjective conforming to traditional or established beliefs, practices, or methods; conventional and accepted as standard
- oscillate verb to move back and forth repeatedly between two opposite positions or values
- ostensible adjective apparent or seemingly true, though not necessarily actual or genuine
- ostensive adjective intended to be understood or interpreted as a sign or indication; outwardly showing or expressing something without direct statement.
- ostentatious adjective showing off or displaying wealth, status, or appearance in a loud, exaggerated, or unnecessary way
- ostracism noun the act of excluding someone from a group or society, often due to disapproval or disagreement
- ostracize verb to exclude or isolate someone from a group, often due to disapproval or disagreement
- oust verb to remove from office or position, especially by force or official action
- outlandish adjective extremely strange or absurd; lacking any basis in reality or common sense
- outskirts noun the outer edge or boundary of a town, city, or area, especially the less developed or more rural parts adjacent to the center
- outstrip verb to exceed or surpass, especially in speed, progress, or performance
- overbearing adjective excessively domineering or intrusive in behavior, often to the point of being oppressive or uninviting
- overshadow verb to obscure or dominate in importance or attention, especially by being more prominent or influential than something else
- overt adjective clearly visible or obvious; not hidden or concealed
- overture noun an opening or introductory proposal or approach, especially in diplomacy or negotiation
- overweening adjective excessively arrogant or self-important; showing an undue sense of superiority or control
- overwrought adjective excessively emotional or disturbed, often to the point of being unstable or uncontrolled
- pacifist noun a person who opposes war and violence, advocating for peace through nonviolent means
- pacify verb to calm or soothe, especially by reducing agitation or anger
- paean noun a hymn or song of praise, especially one sung in ancient Greece to honor a deity or a victorious hero
- painstaking adjective extremely careful and thorough; showing great attention to detail
- palatable adjective acceptable or pleasant to the senses or taste, especially in a way that is satisfying or not offensive
- palatial adjective of or resembling a grand, luxurious, and opulent mansion or residence, often with elaborate features and high-quality materials
- palaver noun a prolonged, often pointless or trivial discussion; a waste of time involving empty talk
- palimpsest noun a manuscript or document in which the original text has been erased and overwritten, leaving traces of the earlier writing visible beneath the new text
- pall verb to become overcast or gloomy; to cast a dark or oppressive atmosphere over
- palliate verb to make (pain, a symptom, or a problem) seem less serious or more bearable; to alleviate or mitigate
- pallid adjective pale or lacking color, often indicating illness or emotional numbness
- palpable adjective clearly perceivable or detectable, especially by touch or intuition; evident or obvious in a way that can be felt rather than just seen or known intellectually.
- palpitate verb to beat or throb strongly, especially in the heart, often with a sense of anxiety or distress
- pan verb to criticize severely or harshly
- panacea noun a single remedy or solution believed to cure all problems or diseases
- panache noun a distinctive, stylish, or confident flair or flair of elegance, often in a manner that is bold or unconventional
- panegyric noun a formal and often elaborate expression of praise or admiration, typically delivered in a speech or written work
- panoply noun a complete set of armor or equipment; by extension, a comprehensive collection or assortment of items
- parable noun a short story, often involving a moral lesson, used to illustrate a principle or teach a lesson through allegory
- paradigm noun a widely accepted model or framework that defines how a particular field of study or practice understands and interprets phenomena
- paradigmatic adjective serving as a typical or standard example of a category or system; defining or representative of a particular pattern or model
- paradox noun a statement or situation that seems logically contradictory or impossible but may, upon closer examination, be true
- paradoxical adjective contradicting itself or appearing to contradict common sense or established principles, yet still being true or plausible
- paragon noun an ideal example or perfect instance of something; a model of excellence
- paraphernalia noun furniture, equipment, or accessories associated with a particular activity or occupation, especially those that are not essential but serve a supportive or decorative function
- pare verb to remove a small amount of something, especially to reduce size or quantity gradually, often by cutting or trimming
- parenthetical adjective Used to describe a phrase or clause inserted within a sentence to provide additional information, often set off by parentheses or commas, without disrupting the main structure of the sentence.
- pariah noun a person who is socially or morally excluded, often due to perceived wrongdoing or deviance
- parity noun equality or balance between two or more entities, especially in status, rights, or resources
- parley verb to engage in a formal discussion or negotiation, especially between adversaries or parties with conflicting interests
- parochial adjective limited to a small, local, or narrow group; lacking broad perspective or awareness of wider contexts or global issues
- parody noun a humorous or satirical imitation of a work, style, or person, often exaggerating features to highlight absurdities or critique the original
- parsimonious adjective characterized by extreme frugality or unwillingness to spend money or give things away
- parsimony noun the quality of being thrifty or economical, especially in the use of resources or money
- partial adjective biased or favoring one side; not impartial.
- partiality noun a bias or preference for one person, group, or thing over others, often unfairly or without justification
- partisan adjective favoring one side or group over others, especially in politics or controversy, often with bias or prejudice
- parvenu noun a person who has recently achieved wealth or status, especially through means considered unorthodox or lacking in traditional background or merit
- passage noun a section or part of a text, a route, or a period of time during which something moves or occurs
- passe adjective no longer fashionable or in style; outdated
- pastiche noun a work that imitates the style of another, often without originality or authenticity
- pastoral adjective relating to rural or countryside life, especially in a peaceful, idyllic, or idealized manner
- patent noun or verb a legal right granted by a government to an inventor to exclude others from making, using, or selling an invention for a specified period
- pathogenic adjective capable of causing disease or infection
- pathological adjective characterized by or involving a disease-like condition; abnormal or excessive in a way that is typically considered harmful or dysfunctional
- patriarch noun a male head of a family, clan, or organization, especially one who holds authority and traditional leadership roles
- patrician adjective belonging to or characteristic of the wealthy, aristocratic class in ancient or historical societies, especially in Rome or other classical civilizations
- patronize verb to support or favor, especially by providing financial or other forms of assistance; to treat as a customer or client
- patronizing adjective showing condescension or superiority toward someone, often in a way that is disrespectful or dismissive of their abilities or opinions
- paucity noun a state or condition of scarcity or lack of quantity
- peccadillo noun a minor or trivial offense or fault, especially one that is not serious enough to warrant punishment or moral condemnation
- peculiar adjective unusual or strange in a way that is not typical or ordinary
- pecuniary adjective relating to money or financial matters
- pedagogical adjective relating to or involving the methods and principles of teaching or education
- pedagogue noun a teacher, especially one who is dedicated to the education and moral development of students
- pedagogy noun the theory and practice of teaching, especially as it relates to methods and techniques used in education
- pedantic adjective excessively concerned with rules, details, or formality; showing a narrow or rigid adherence to correctness, often to the point of being annoying or unproductive
- peddle verb to sell or promote something, especially in a persistent or low-quality manner
- pedestrian adjective dull, unimaginative, and commonplace — used to describe something lacking originality or creativity, especially in art, writing, or ideas; this is the sense tested on the SAT, distinct from the common meaning of 'someone who walks on foot'.
- peevish adjective irritably or easily annoyed or impatient
- pejorative adjective expressing a negative or disparaging judgment; derogatory
- pellucid adjective clear in meaning or appearance; easily understood or visible
- penchant noun a strong, natural inclination or preference for something, often habitual or instinctive
- pendulous adjective swinging or hanging downward from a central point, often with a natural or graceful arc
- penitent adjective showing deep remorse or regret for past wrongs; sincerely repentant
- pensive adjective deeply thoughtful or contemplative, often with a sense of sadness or melancholy
- penultimate adjective meaning the second-to-last in a sequence or series
- penumbra noun the partial or outer shadow of an object, especially in relation to a light source, where illumination is reduced but not completely absent
- penurious adjective extremely stingy or unwilling to spend money or share resources
- penury noun an extreme state of poverty or lack of financial resources
- peon noun a low-ranking or unskilled worker, especially one in a manual or menial position
- percipient adjective able to perceive or detect something clearly or quickly; having a sharp sense of awareness or observation
- peregrinate verb to travel extensively, often with a purpose or spiritual intent, especially in search of knowledge, enlightenment, or a new way of life
- peremptory adjective demanding immediate obedience; unyielding or forceful in assertion or command
- perennial adjective lasting for a long time; continuing without interruption or end
- perfidious adjective treacherous; showing a consistent lack of faith or loyalty, especially in a deceitful or untrustworthy manner
- perfidy noun the quality of treachery or betrayal, especially in a deliberate and persistent manner
- perfunctory adjective carried out in a superficial, mechanical, or routine manner without genuine attention or care
- perilous adjective dangerous or threatening, involving a high risk of harm or death
- peripatetic adjective traveling continuously or frequently, especially in a way that involves moving from place to place without settling down
- peripheral adjective relating to the outer edge or surrounding area; not central or essential
- perish verb to cease to exist, survive, or be viable; to die or be destroyed, especially due to decay, damage, or exposure
- perjury noun the act of deliberately lying under oath in a legal proceeding
- permeate verb to spread throughout a place or substance, especially in a gradual or pervasive way
- pernicious adjective causing harm or damage, especially in a subtle or gradual way; harmful in a way that is difficult to detect or resist
- peroration noun the concluding section of a speech or argument, typically emphasizing the main point with strong rhetorical force
- perpetual adjective continuing without end or interruption; everlasting
- perpetuate verb to continue or maintain over a long period of time, especially in a harmful or undesirable way
- perquisite noun a benefit or privilege granted to someone, especially as a part of a job or position, such as free meals or housing.
- perseverance noun the quality of continuing to strive or persist despite difficulties, obstacles, or setbacks
- persist verb to continue to exist, endure, or maintain despite obstacles or opposition
- personable adjective pleasantly approachable and friendly in manner
- perspicacious adjective having or showing keen insight or the ability to perceive things clearly and accurately
- perspicacity noun the quality of being perceptive or having keen insight into complex matters
- perspicuous adjective clearly expressed or easily understood; obvious in meaning
- pert adjective lively, playful, or cheeky; impertinent in a charming way
- pertinacious adjective persistent and determined, especially in the face of opposition or difficulty
- pertinent adjective relevant or directly connected to the subject at hand
- perturb verb to disturb or unsettle mentally or emotionally
- peruse verb to read carefully and thoroughly, especially with attention to detail
- pervade verb to spread throughout a place, group, or situation in a widespread and often invisible manner
- pervasive adjective existing or occurring throughout a large area, group, or period of time; widespread and present in every part or aspect
- petulant adjective characterized by petulance; showing sudden, unreasonable anger or irritability, especially in a childlike or impulsive manner
- phalanx noun a tightly packed formation of soldiers, typically in ancient warfare, or a group of people or things arranged in a solid, defensive line
- phantasmagorical adjective producing or resembling a dazzling, fantastical, or illusionary spectacle; highly imaginative and unreal in appearance
- phenomena noun observable events or circumstances that are significant or noteworthy, especially those that are unusual or widespread in nature
- philanthropist noun a person who gives money or resources to support charitable causes or benefit the public good
- philanthropy noun the practice of giving money or time to help others, especially through charitable or humanitarian efforts
- philistine noun a person who lacks cultural awareness or appreciation of art, literature, or intellectual pursuits, often displaying ignorance or superficiality toward refined or sophisticated ideas
- philology noun the study of the history, development, and structure of languages, especially through the analysis of ancient texts and linguistic evolution.
- philosophical adjective Concerned with or based on philosophical principles; reflective and analytical about fundamental questions of existence, knowledge, or values.
- phlegmatic adjective calm, unemotional, and indifferent to stress or excitement
- phony adjective falsely appearing to be genuine or authentic; deceptive or insincere
- picayune adjective trivial, insignificant, or of little importance or value
- piety noun a deep sense of reverence, respect, or devotion, especially toward religious or moral principles
- pilfer verb to steal small amounts of something, especially from a store or institution, often secretly or without intent to cause harm
- pillage verb to loot or steal goods, especially in a violent or systematic manner, often from a place of strategic or cultural value
- pillory noun a medieval punishment device in which a person is forced to stand or sit in a wooden frame with their face exposed to public view, often for humiliation or retribution
- pine verb to long for or yearn for something with a wistful, often melancholic emotion
- pinion noun a primary flight feather of a bird; also, a small gear wheel that meshes with a larger gear or rack
- pinnacle noun the highest point or peak of something, especially in achievement, development, or a physical structure
- pious adjective showing deep respect and devotion to religious beliefs or practices
- piquant adjective having a sharp, sharp, or stimulating flavor or quality; notably sharp or spicy in taste or in character
- pique verb to stimulate curiosity or interest; to arouse excitement or desire
- pith noun the essential or central part of something, especially the core of a plant or the vital essence of a concept
- pithy adjective concise and to the point; expressing a clear idea in few words
- placate verb to soothe or calm, especially by offering concessions or appeasing someone's demands
- placebo noun a substance or treatment with no active therapeutic effect, given to patients to provide a psychological benefit through the belief that it is effective
- placid adjective calm, serene, and free from agitation or disturbance
- plaintive adjective expressing or evoking sorrow or longing; mournful or pitiful in tone or expression
- plastic adjective capable of being shaped or molded; flexible and adaptable to change or external influence
- plasticity noun the quality or ability to change shape, form, or structure in response to external stimuli or internal conditions
- platitude noun a trite or obvious statement that lacks originality or depth, often used in a dismissive or sarcastic way
- plausible adjective appearing reasonable or likely; capable of being believed without definitive proof
- plead verb to appeal urgently or insistently, often in a formal or emotional manner, to gain support, forgiveness, or a favorable outcome
- plebeian adjective belonging to or characteristic of the common people; not aristocratic or elite
- plenitude noun the state or quality of being abundant or plentiful
- plethora noun an excessive or abundant amount of something, often to the point of being overwhelming or undesirable
- pliant adjective able to bend or flex easily; flexible without breaking
- plod verb to move slowly and laboriously, often with effort or without enthusiasm
- plodding adjective moving or proceeding slowly and laboriously, often with lack of energy or enthusiasm
- ploy noun a deliberate and often deceptive plan or scheme designed to achieve a particular outcome, especially one intended to deceive or manipulate
- pluck noun The quality or spirit of courage, determination, or boldness in the face of difficulty or danger; often used to describe a person's inner resolve or initiative in taking action despite adversity.
- plucky adjective showing courage or boldness in the face of difficulty or danger
- plumb verb to explore or examine deeply, especially in order to understand the full extent or nature of something
- plummet verb to fall rapidly and drastically, often in a sudden or dramatic manner
- plutocracy noun a form of government or societal structure in which power and wealth are held exclusively by a small group of wealthy individuals
- ply verb to work steadily and continuously at a task or trade; to engage in a profession or activity with persistence and dedication (distinct from the common sense of 'to use' or 'to apply' a tool or object)
- podium noun a raised platform, typically used for speeches or ceremonies
- poignancy noun the quality of being deeply moving or evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret
- poignant adjective deeply moving, especially due to a sense of sadness or loss
- pointed adjective sharply direct and unmistakable in intent or meaning; conveying a clear, often critical or sarcastic, message without ambiguity (contrasted with the common meaning of 'sharp in shape' or 'having a sharp tip')
- poise noun the ability to remain calm, balanced, or composed, especially in difficult or stressful situations
- polarize verb to divide or separate into opposing groups or factions, often leading to conflict or ideological divergence
- polarized past tense of 'polarize' to divide or separate into opposing or contrasting groups or viewpoints, often resulting in a clear distinction between two extremes
- polemic adjective engaged in or characterized by aggressive, often inflammatory debate or argument, especially on a controversial issue
- polemical adjective characterized by aggressive or heated argumentation, especially in a way that is confrontational or intended to provoke disagreement
- politic adjective shrewd, cautious, and practical in dealing with political or social matters; showing awareness of the consequences of actions in a complex or sensitive environment
- polity noun the system of government or the structure of a state or nation, especially in terms of its institutions and laws
- pollyannaish adjective characterized by an unrealistic, overly optimistic view of life, ignoring difficulties or negative realities
- polyglot noun a person who speaks and understands multiple languages
- polymath noun a person with extensive knowledge and expertise in a wide range of subjects
- pomp noun the display of wealth, dignity, or importance, often in an ostentatious or exaggerated manner
- pomposity noun the quality of being pompous; an excessive or unnecessary display of importance or superiority
- pompous adjective showing excessive pride or arrogance, often in a manner that is ostentatious or self-important
- ponderous adjective slow-moving or heavy in weight or bulk; characterized by sluggishness or lack of agility
- pontifical adjective showing the authority, dignity, or air of a high religious or official figure
- pontificate verb to speak authoritatively or excessively, often without evidence or qualification, especially in a manner that is perceived as pretentious or unwarranted.
- populist adjective favoring the interests of ordinary people over those of elites or institutions; advocating policies that appeal to the common citizen rather than established authorities.
- porous adjective having many small holes or openings that allow substances to pass through easily
- portend verb to indicate or signal the occurrence of something future, especially something serious or unfavorable
- portentous adjective suggesting something ominous or significant, often implying a foreboding or warning
- posit verb to state or assert firmly and confidently, often as a proposition or claim
- posthumous adjective occurring or awarded after a person's death
- postulate verb to assume or state as a principle without proof, often as a starting point for further reasoning or argument
- potentate noun a person who holds supreme power or authority, especially in a political or institutional context
- powwow noun a meeting for discussion or consultation
- practitioner noun a person who regularly engages in a particular activity, profession, or practice, especially one with expertise or formal training in that field
- pragmatic adjective concerned with practicality and effectiveness rather than theory or idealism
- preamble noun an introductory statement or section that sets the context or purpose of a document, speech, or legal text
- precarious adjective existing in a state of instability or vulnerability; likely to fail or collapse at any moment
- preceded verb to come before in time, order, or sequence
- precedent noun a previous example or instance that is used as a basis for decision-making or judgment
- precept noun a fundamental principle or rule of conduct, especially one accepted as authoritative or widely held in a particular tradition or community
- precipitate verb to cause something to happen suddenly or unexpectedly, especially a negative or undesirable outcome
- precipitous adjective characterized by a steep or sudden descent or decline; abrupt and dangerous
- precis noun a concise summary or abstract of a longer work, especially a book or article
- precision noun the quality or state of being exact, accurate, or finely detailed
- preclude verb to prevent or make something impossible or unlikely to happen
- precocious adjective showing advanced maturity or intelligence beyond what is typically expected for one's age
- precursor noun something that comes before and serves as a basis or prototype for a later development or event
- predecessor noun a person or thing that came before another in a sequence or position, especially in a position of authority or leadership
- predicament noun a difficult or troublesome situation from which escape is difficult or impossible