Exigent
hardNeutral toneEK-si-juhnt
adjective
Definition
requiring immediate action; pressing or demanding
Memory hook
EXIGENT sounds like 'exit-gent'—a gentleman shouting EXIT NOW during a fire: the situation is urgent and demanding immediate action.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The relief workers faced exigent circumstances that left no room for bureaucratic delay.”
“His exigent boss demanded reports be filed within the hour, no excuses accepted.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The relief workers faced ______ circumstances that left no room for bureaucratic delay.”
Show answer
exigent
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Exigent is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "urgent" or "pressing" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "trivial".
Related GRE Words
aberrant
Deviating from what is normal or expected
aberration
A departure from what is normal, usual, or expected
abeyance
a state of temporary suspension or inactivity
abscond
To leave secretly and hide, especially to avoid arrest or prosecution
abstemious
Moderate in eating and drinking; self-restrained
abstruse
Difficult to understand; obscure
Master exigent and 1,000+ GRE words
Learn through stories, practice with real GRE questions, and never forget with spaced repetition.