SAT Vocabulary - Medium-Difficulty Power Words

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Ambivalent

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**Definition:** Having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something or someone. **Example:** She remained ambivalent about the job offer, attracted by the high salary but deterred by the long hours. **Etymology:** Latin 'ambivalere' (to have equal strength), from 'ambi' (both) + 'valere' (to be strong/worthy).

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Bolster

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**Definition:** To support or strengthen; to prop up. **Example:** The new evidence served to bolster the defendant's alibi, convincing the jury of his innocence. **Context:** Commonly used in contexts of arguments, morale, or physical structures.

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Candor

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**Definition:** The quality of being open, honest, or straightforward; frankness. **Example:** The politician won voters over not with complex policies, but with his refreshing candor regarding the budget crisis. **Etymology:** From Latin 'candere' (to shine or be white/glowing), implying purity and openness.

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Circumvent

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**Definition:** To find a way around an obstacle; to overcome or avoid a problem, often through cleverness or ingenuity. **Example:** In the novel, the hero manages to circumvent the King's guards by sneaking through the sewer system. **Etymology:** From 'circum' (around) + 'venire' (to come).

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Coherent

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**Definition:** (of an argument, theory, or policy) Logical and consistent; (of a person) Able to speak clearly and logically. **Example:** The student's essay was well-researched, but his presentation during the debate was not coherent. **Etymology:** From 'co-' (together) + 'haerere' (to stick).