Pioneering
mediumPositive tonepy-uh-NEER-ing
adjective
Definition
Involving new ideas or methods
Memory hook
PIONEER-ing: like the first settlers heading into unknown territory - blazing a trail others will follow.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Her pioneering work in genetics earned her a Nobel Prize.”
“The pioneering spirit of early settlers shaped the nation.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Her ______ work in genetics earned her a Nobel Prize.”
Show answer
pioneering
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Pioneering is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "groundbreaking" or "innovative" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "conventional".
Related GRE Words
innovative
Featuring new methods; advanced and original
novel
New or unusual in an interesting way
ingenious
Clever, original, and inventive
insurgent
rising in active revolt against authority
unorthodox
Contrary to what is usual, traditional, or accepted
principal
First in order of importance; main; the head of a school
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