Systematic

mediumPositive tone

sis-tuh-MAT-ik

adjective

Definition

Done or acting according to a fixed plan or system; methodical

Memory hook

SYSTEM-atic: following a SYSTEM - organized, orderly, like a well-oiled machine.

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Word roots

systemaorganized whole(Greek)

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Examples

She took a systematic approach to solving the problem.
The company implemented systematic quality controls.

Test yourself

Fill in the blank with the right word:

She took a ______ approach to solving the problem.
Show answer

systematic

Synonyms

methodicalorganizedstructuredorderly

Antonyms

haphazardrandomdisorganizedunsystematic

Categories

View all Method words

GRE Tip

Systematic is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "methodical" or "organized" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "haphazard".

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