Synonyms: Nouns - SSAT Upper Level Verbal

"Cynicism" means mistrust or doubt, specifically the belief that people always act in their own interests. "Skepticism" also means doubt, so "skepticism" is the correct answer_._ None of the other answer choices are close in meaning to "cynicism": "luxury" means comfort and wealth, "poison" means a substance that is harmful or deadly when ingested, "energy" means vitality or the ability to be active, and "attraction" refers to a force that draws one thing or person to another thing or person.

A "portent" is a sign or a warning that something is going to happen, which is also the definition of the correct answer, "omen." None of the other answer choices are close in meaning to "portent": a "thought" is an idea formed in the mind, a "doorway" is an entrance formed by a door, "cheer" is joy and happiness, and an "error" is a mistake.

A "feat" is an act or deed that requires courage, skill, or strength. Similarly, the correct answer "achievement" is something that has been accomplished through effort. None of the other answers have similar meanings: a "collection"is a group of interesting things gathered by a person; "strength" is the ability to be physically forceful; a "profession" is a career; and "measurement" is the act of measuring something or the data gathered by measuring something.

A "correlation" is the relationship between two things that always change together. They are always connected, so "connection" is the correct answer. "Marriage" also describes a connection, but it refers to the socially official uniting of a couple. "Uncertainty" is doubt, "frustration" is annoyance, and a "statistic" is a number that conveys a piece of information.

"Tedium" is the state of being dull, so "monotony," which means lack of change or boring repetitiveness, is the correct answer. None of the other choices are similar in meaning to "tedium" or "montony": "discomfort" is an uncomfortable feeling, "instructions" are guidelines describing the use of something, "flotation" is the act of floating, and "mid-afternoon" is a time in the middle of the afternoon.

A "jaunt" is a short journey taken for pleasure, and the correct answer "excursion" is a journey or adventure. The other choices are not similar to "jaunt" or "excursion": "angle" is the difference in direction of two intersecting lines, "pleasantry" is something said to be nice or polite, "curse" is an offensive, angry saying, and "support" is help or encouragement.

An "adage" is a wise saying or a "proverb." "Abduction" means a kidnapping. "Cadence" means rhythm. "Collusion" means a conspiracy or a secret agreement. "Residence" usually refers to a person's home.

"Remedy" means "treatment" or a cure for some illness or problem. "Compensation" means payment for services rendered. "Plague" means a widespread and contagious disease. "Summary" means a brief overview of the main points of something. "Fortitude" means strength or bravery.

"Zest" means "enthusiasm_,"_ energy, or fervor. "Lethargy" is an antonym of "zest"; it means tiredness and a state in which one lacks energy. "Rancidness" means the quality of being old and rotten. "Prudence" means carefulness or caution. "Limberness" means the quality of being flexible and bendable.

"Infamy" means well-known for bad deeds or "notoriety." A "hedonist" is a person who only seeks pleasure. "Flattery" means excessive praise and compliments. "Excursion" means a short outing or trip. "Domicile" means residence or home.

"Frenzy" means hysteria or a state of disorderly and wild behavior. "Tranquility" is an antonym; it means a state of calmness and peacefulness. "Inquisition" is an interrogation or a period when a person is investigated and questioned. "Marriage" is a union between two people. "Adage" is a proverb or wise saying.

"Respite" is an intermission or break. "Catastrophe" means disaster or an event causing much damage and destruction. "Sacrifice" is an act of giving up something for a greater purpose. "Profanity" means swear words. "Sage" is a very wise person.

You can infer from the words "pit" and "fall" contained in "pitfall" that the word describes something that could cause someone's downfall. In fact, a "pitfall" is a danger, so "danger" is the correct answer. By dissecting the word "pitfall," it is possible to infer its meaning.

"Haste" means hurriedness or the state of being done quickly or with great speed. "Proverb" is an adage or wise saying. "Ornament" is an object used to decorate a person or thing. "Amateur" is a non-professional who engages in some activity. "Barrier" is a obstacle that blocks access.

"Dexterity" means to have an expertise or skill in a specific field. "Temptation" means having a desire or wanting to do something. "Romance" means a feeling of love. "Outrage" means a strong reaction of anger. "Bias" means having a prejudice or showing favor to one particular side.

"Bravado" means boldness or acting in a way to impress or intimidate others. "Stash" means something stored away or hidden. "Benevolence" is the act of kindness and geneorsity. "Disguise" is the act of hiding or concealing oneself. "Cascade" is a waterfall.

"Adjunct" means assistant or secondary item that is added to the main part. "Mutability" means capable of being altered or changed. "Coronation" is the celebration of crowning a king. "Humiliation" is the act of being embarrassed. "Prudence" means carefulness and caution.

"Standstill" means a stop or a deadlock. "Connection" is a link or bond between two or more people or items. "Altercation" is a fight or argument. "Wreckage" is the remains of the things after it has been severly damaged or broken. "Facade" is the front or face of something.

"Abeyance" is a state of temporary inactivity.