SSAT Middle Level Verbal

A comprehensive guide to mastering vocabulary, analogies, and verbal reasoning for the SSAT Middle Level.

Building a Strong VocabularyMastering AnalogiesVerbal Reasoning Basics
Advanced Vocabulary SkillsComplex Analogy TypesCritical Reading and Inference
Applying Vocabulary in Everyday LifeRecognizing Analogies in the Real WorldUsing Verbal Reasoning to Solve Problems
Time Management on the SSAT Verbal SectionElimination and Educated GuessingReading Carefully and Finding Clues
Building a Strong Vo...Mastering AnalogiesVerbal Reasoning Bas...Advanced Vocabulary ...Complex Analogy Type...Critical Reading and...Applying Vocabulary ...Recognizing Analogie...Using Verbal Reasoni...Time Management on t...Elimination and Educ...Reading Carefully an...
Advanced Topics

Advanced Vocabulary Skills

Beyond Basic Definitions

Advanced vocabulary means knowing not just what a word means, but how to use it appropriately and recognize its subtle shades of meaning.

Word Roots, Prefixes, and Suffixes

Learning Latin and Greek roots, as well as common prefixes and suffixes, can help you figure out unfamiliar words.

  • Root: The base part of a word.
  • Prefix: Letters at the start that change meaning (un-, pre-, mis-).
  • Suffix: Letters at the end that change meaning (-ful, -less, -tion).

Multiple Meanings

Many words have more than one meaning. Pay attention to context!

Real-World Benefits

Understanding advanced vocabulary helps you write essays, understand challenging reading, and communicate clearly in many situations.

Examples

  • Knowing that 'benevolent' comes from the root 'bene-' meaning good, so it means 'well-meaning or kind.'

  • Recognizing 'predict' as 'pre-' (before) and 'dict' (say), so it means 'to say before something happens.'

In a Nutshell

Advanced vocabulary skills help you decode and use complex words with confidence.

Key Terms

Prefix
A group of letters placed at the beginning of a word to change its meaning.
Suffix
A group of letters placed at the end of a word to change its meaning.
Root
The main part of a word that gives its core meaning.
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Complex Analogy Types