Stymie
mediumNegative toneSTY-mee
verb
Definition
to block, thwart, or frustrate progress toward a goal
Memory hook
STYMIE: imagine a STY (a pen of mud) that traps ME — I'm stuck, my whole plan blocked by the muck.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“A lack of funding stymied the researchers' efforts to expand the study.”
“Bureaucratic delays continued to stymie the relief operation for weeks.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“A lack of funding ______ the researchers' efforts to expand the study.”
Show answer
stymied
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Stymie is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "thwart" or "hinder" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "assist".
Related GRE Words
impede
to obstruct or hinder progress
thwart
To prevent someone from accomplishing something
arrest
(verb) To stop or check the progress of something; to seize by legal authority
check
(verb) To restrain or control; to stop the progress of
antipathy
a deep, settled feeling of dislike or aversion
appease
To pacify or placate someone by acceding to their demands
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