Pernicious
hardNegative toneper-NISH-us
adjective
Definition
Having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way
Memory hook
PER-NICIOUS: thoroughly VICIOUS in a sneaky, gradual way — subtly harmful.
Word roots
per— thoroughly(Latin)
necare— to kill(Latin)
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The pernicious effects of the policy became clear over time.”
“Gossip had a pernicious influence on workplace morale.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ effects of the policy became clear over time.”
Show answer
pernicious
Categories
GRE Tip
Pernicious is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "deleterious" or "baneful" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "beneficial".
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