Enervate vs Energize
enervate
to weaken/drain
energize
to invigorate
How to tell them apart
Both start eNER-, so lean on the ending. eNERVate gets on your NERVes and drains you WEAK. eNERGize adds ENERGy and pumps you up. NERV = drained; ENERG = charged.
Test yourself
Which word fits from context? Pick one, then reveal the answer. This is exactly how the GRE tests these pairs.
Question 1
The relentless summer heat and endless bureaucratic delays served only to the volunteers, leaving them too exhausted to continue their work.
Choose: enervate or energize
Show answer
Answer: enervate
"too exhausted to continue" forces enervate (drain/weaken); energize would contradict exhaustion.
Question 2
A brisk morning walk and a strong cup of coffee never fail to her, sharpening her focus for the demanding hours ahead.
Choose: enervate or energize
Show answer
Answer: energize
"sharpening her focus," brisk walk, and coffee force energize (invigorate); enervate would contradict.
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