Capricious
hardNegative tonekuh-PRISH-us
adjective
Definition
Given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior
Memory hook
CAPRI-cious: Like a goat (CAPRA) jumping unpredictably from rock to rock -- fickle and changeable.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The capricious weather made planning the outdoor event difficult.”
“His capricious nature made him an unreliable business partner.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ weather made planning the outdoor event difficult.”
Show answer
capricious
Categories
GRE Tip
Capricious is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "fickle" or "volatile" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "steady".
Related GRE Words
mercurial
Subject to sudden changes in mood or behavior; volatile and unpredictable
fickle
Changing frequently, especially regarding one's loyalties or affections
aberrant
Deviating from what is normal or expected
artless
free of guile or pretense; naturally simple and sincere
circumspect
Wary and unwilling to take risks; cautious
complaisant
Willing to please others; obliging; agreeable
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