Innocuous
mediumPositive toneih-NOK-yoo-us
adjective
Definition
Harmless and unlikely to cause offense or injury
Memory hook
IN-NOCUOUS: NOT NOXIOUS — harmless and inoffensive.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The medication has been deemed innocuous by regulatory agencies, with no significant side effects.”
“What seemed like an innocuous comment at the meeting later escalated into a major controversy.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The medication has been deemed ______ by regulatory agencies, with no significant side effects.”
Show answer
innocuous
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Innocuous is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "harmless" or "benign" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "harmful".
Related GRE Words
benign
Gentle, harmless, or not serious; not causing harm or danger
benevolent
Well-meaning and kindly; generous and charitable
boorish
rude, ill-mannered, and insensitive
contrite
feeling deep remorse for wrongdoing; repentant
diffidence
Lack of confidence in oneself; shyness or modesty
dispassionate
Not influenced by emotion; impartial and objective in judgment
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