Perspicuous
hardPositive toneper-SPIK-yoo-us
adjective
Definition
Clearly expressed and easily understood; lucid
Memory hook
You can see THROUGH it clearly (per + specere) — perspicuous writing is transparent and easy to understand.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The perspicuous explanation helped students grasp the concept.”
“Her perspicuous writing style was praised by editors.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The ______ explanation helped students grasp the concept.”
Show answer
perspicuous
Categories
GRE Tip
Perspicuous is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "lucid" or "clear" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "obscure".
Related GRE Words
pellucid
Translucently clear; easily understood
coherent
Logical and consistent; able to speak clearly and logically
lucid
Expressed clearly; easy to understand
transparent
Easy to perceive or detect; open and frank
unambiguous
Not open to more than one interpretation; clear
limpid
Clear and transparent; easily understood
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