Ultimate GED Vocabulary List: Must-know words for every section
GED Vocabulary List: Must-know words for every section
Preparing for the GED test is more than just mastering content—it’s about understanding the language used across different sections. This comprehensive vocabulary guide will help you navigate each section of the test with confidence, breaking down must-know words that can make a significant difference in your performance.
Understanding the Importance of Vocabulary
Before diving into specific words, it’s crucial to understand why vocabulary matters. The GED test isn’t just about knowing facts; it’s about comprehending complex instructions, analyzing text, and communicating effectively. A strong vocabulary can help you:
- Understand test questions more quickly
- Interpret complex reading passages
- Communicate more precisely in writing
- Solve mathematical word problems more effectively
Mathematical Language and Terms
Basic Mathematical Vocabulary
- Evaluate: Calculate the value of an expression
- Solve: Find the answer or solution to a problem
- Simplify: Reduce an expression to its most basic form
- Estimate: Make an approximate calculation
- Factor: Break down a number or expression into its components
- Rationalize: Convert an expression to a simpler, more standard form
Algebraic Terms
- Variable: A symbol (usually a letter) representing an unknown number
- Coefficient: A number multiplied by a variable
- Expression: A mathematical phrase combining numbers and/or variables
- Equation: A statement showing two expressions are equal
- Linear: Relating to a straight line or linear equation
- Slope: The steepness of a line on a graph
Geometric Vocabulary
- Perimeter: The total distance around a shape
- Area: The space inside a two-dimensional shape
- Volume: The space occupied by a three-dimensional object
- Radius: The distance from the center to the edge of a circle
- Diameter: The distance across a circle through its center
- Circumference: The distance around a circle
Reading Comprehension Vocabulary
Analytical Terms
- Infer: Draw a conclusion based on evidence and reasoning
- Analyze: Examine something in detail
- Interpret: Explain the meaning of something
- Summarize: Briefly state the main points
- Synthesize: Combine different parts to form a coherent whole
- Context: The circumstances surrounding a word or event
Rhetorical Devices
- Tone: The author’s attitude toward the subject
- Argument: A reasoned attempt to persuade
- Thesis: The main point or central argument of a text
- Bias: A preference that prevents impartial judgment
- Metaphor: A comparison between two unlike things
- Imagery: Descriptive language that creates mental pictures
Writing and Language Skills Vocabulary
Grammar and Style Terms
- Syntax: The arrangement of words and phrases
- Clause: A group of words containing a subject and predicate
- Fragment: An incomplete sentence
- Parallel structure: Using the same grammatical form for similar ideas
- Transition: A word or phrase connecting ideas
- Cite: To quote or reference a source
Argumentative Writing Vocabulary
- Premise: A statement that supports an argument
- Counterargument: An argument opposed to the main argument
- Evidence: Facts or information supporting a claim
- Rhetoric: The art of effective communication
- Persuasive: Able to convince or influence
- Substantiate: To provide evidence supporting a claim
Science Vocabulary
General Scientific Terms
- Hypothesis: A proposed explanation for a phenomenon
- Variable: A factor that can change in an experiment
- Empirical: Based on observation or experience
- Correlation: A mutual relationship between two things
- Causation: The relationship between cause and effect
- Replicate: To repeat an experiment to verify results
Specific Scientific Domains
- Ecosystem: A community of living and non-living things
- Cellular: Related to or consisting of cells
- Gravitational: Relating to gravity
- Photosynthesis: The process by which plants make food
- Genetic: Related to genes or heredity
- Molecular: Related to or involving molecules
Social Studies Vocabulary
Historical and Governmental Terms
- Constitution: A system of fundamental laws
- Democracy: A system of government by the whole population
- Legislation: Laws considered as a whole
- Sovereignty: Supreme power or authority
- Amendment: A change or addition to a document
- Ratify: To sign or give formal consent
Economic and Social Terms
- Capitalism: An economic system based on private ownership
- Infrastructure: Basic physical and organizational structures
- Globalization: The process of international integration
- Demographic: Related to population statistics
- Socioeconomic: Involving both social and economic factors
- Paradigm: A typical example or pattern
Strategies for Vocabulary Improvement
- Read widely: Exposure to different texts helps expand vocabulary
- Use context clues: Try to understand words by their surrounding text
- Keep a vocabulary journal: Write down new words and their meanings
- Practice using new words: Incorporate them in your writing and speech
- Use flashcards: Create cards for quick and easy review
- Take practice tests: Familiarize yourself with test-specific language
Conclusion
Mastering vocabulary is a critical component of GED test preparation. By understanding these key terms across different subjects, you’ll be better equipped to comprehend questions, analyze texts, and communicate effectively.
Remember, vocabulary is not about memorizing words, but understanding their nuanced meanings and how they function in different contexts. Stay curious, keep learning, and approach the GED with confidence.
Pro Tip: Don’t just memorize these words—understand their application in real-world contexts. The more you practice, the more natural these terms will become.
Good luck on your GED journey!
