Exhaustive
mediumPositive toneig-ZAWS-tiv
adjective
Definition
Including or considering all elements or aspects; fully comprehensive
Memory hook
EXHAUST-ive: So thorough it EXHAUSTS every possibility -- leaves nothing uncovered.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The police conducted an exhaustive investigation of the crime scene.”
“Her exhaustive research covered every aspect of the topic.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The police conducted an ______ investigation of the crime scene.”
Show answer
exhaustive
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Exhaustive is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "comprehensive" or "thorough" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "superficial".
Related GRE Words
comprehensive
Complete; including all or nearly all elements or aspects
painstaking
Done with or employing great care and thoroughness
thorough
Complete with regard to every detail; not superficial or partial
complement
Something that completes or makes perfect; to complete or enhance
meticulous
Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise
catholic
Including a wide variety of things; all-embracing; universal in extent
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