Prevaricate
hardNegative toneprih-VAR-ih-kayt
verb
Definition
To speak or act evasively; to avoid telling the truth
Memory hook
PRE-VARI-CATE: straddling various positions to avoid the truth — speaking evasively.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The witness prevaricated when asked direct questions.”
“Politicians often prevaricate rather than give straight answers.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The witness ______ when asked direct questions.”
Show answer
prevaricated
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Prevaricate is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "equivocate" or "dissemble" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "tell the truth".
Related GRE Words
equivocate
To use ambiguous language to avoid committing to a position; to be deliberately vague
vacillate
To waver between different opinions or actions; be indecisive
artifice
Clever or cunning devices or expedients, especially to deceive; trickery
chicanery
The use of trickery to achieve a political, financial, or legal purpose
diatribe
A forceful and bitter verbal attack against someone or something
dissemble
To conceal one's true motives, feelings, or beliefs; to feign
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