Cognizant
hardNeutral toneKOG-nih-zent
adjective
Definition
Having knowledge or being aware of
Memory hook
COGNIZANT has COGNIT- like "cognitive" — your brain KNOWS. You are cognizant = aware.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The manager was cognizant of the potential problems.”
“She remained cognizant of the risks involved.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The manager was ______ of the potential problems.”
Show answer
cognizant
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Cognizant is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "aware" or "conscious" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "unaware".
Related GRE Words
arcane
Understood by few; mysterious or secret
esoteric
Intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with specialized knowledge
prescient
Having knowledge of events before they take place; prophetic
maven
An expert or connoisseur in a particular field
obscure
Not discovered or known about; uncertain
pundit
a self-styled expert who comments authoritatively, especially in media
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