Naive
easyNegative toneny-EEV
adjective
Definition
Showing a lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment
Memory hook
NAIVE sounds like 'knee-EEV' - as innocent as a newborn still on its knees, not yet worldly.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“It was naive to think the problem would solve itself.”
“Her naive trust in strangers sometimes put her at risk.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“It was ______ to think the problem would solve itself.”
Show answer
naive
Categories
GRE Tip
Naive is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "ingenuous" or "credulous" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "worldly".
Related GRE Words
artless
free of guile or pretense; naturally simple and sincere
guileless
Innocent and without deception; artless and sincere
ingenuous
Innocent and unsuspecting; candid and sincere
gullible
Easily persuaded to believe something; credulous
abundant
Existing or available in large quantities; plentiful
accept
To receive willingly; to agree to or consent to something
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