Luxuriant vs Luxurious
luxuriant
lush/abundant (growth)
luxurious
opulent/comfortable
How to tell them apart
luxuriANT = lush plANTs, abundant growth. luxuriOUS = a fabulOUS, opulent lifestyle. -ant grows; -ous pampers.
Test yourself
Which word fits from context? Pick one, then reveal the answer. This is exactly how the GRE tests these pairs.
Question 1
After weeks of steady rain, the garden grew so that thick vines and dense foliage nearly obscured the winding gravel path.
Choose: luxuriant or luxurious
Show answer
Answer: luxuriant
"thick vines and dense foliage" describing plant growth force luxuriant (lush/abundant); luxurious (opulent) does not describe vegetation.
Question 2
The suite was undeniably , boasting marble floors, a private butler, and silk furnishings that pampered every guest who entered.
Choose: luxuriant or luxurious
Show answer
Answer: luxurious
marble floors, a butler, and silk furnishings that "pampered" force luxurious (opulent); luxuriant does not fit décor.
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