Conventional

easyNeutral tone

kun-VEN-shuh-nul

adjective

Definition

Based on or in accordance with what is generally done or believed

Memory hook

CONVENT-ional: Following the rules like a CONVENT -- doing what everyone agrees is standard.

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Word roots

conventioassembly, agreement(Latin)

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Examples

He took a conventional approach to solving the problem.
Her art challenged conventional ideas about beauty.

Test yourself

Fill in the blank with the right word:

He took a ______ approach to solving the problem.
Show answer

conventional

Synonyms

traditionalorthodoxstandardcustomary

Antonyms

unconventionalunorthodoxinnovativeradical

Categories

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GRE Tip

Conventional is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "traditional" or "orthodox" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "unconventional".

Read: How to Memorize GRE Words That Actually Stick

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