Exhort
hardNeutral toneig-ZORT
verb
Definition
to strongly urge or encourage someone to act
Memory hook
EXHORT sounds like 'ex-HORT(on) hears a Who'βimagine a leader loudly urging a crowd onward; to exhort is to strongly urge.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
βThe coach exhorted his players to fight for every point in the final set.β
βIn her speech she exhorted the graduates to serve their communities.β
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
βThe coach ______ his players to fight for every point in the final set.β
Show answer
exhorted
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Exhort is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "urge" or "implore" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "discourage".
Related GRE Words
cogent
Clear, logical, and convincing
rebuke
To express sharp disapproval or criticism
reproach
To express disapproval or disappointment; censure
eloquent
Fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing
aberrant
Deviating from what is normal or expected
aberration
A departure from what is normal, usual, or expected
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