Vex
mediumNegative toneVEKS
verb
Definition
to annoy, irritate, or trouble
Memory hook
VEX: imagine an annoying text that just says 'VEX' over and over, buzzing your phone until you're irritated.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The unsolved riddle continued to vex the entire research team.”
“Small inconsistencies in the data vexed her more than any major error would.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The unsolved riddle continued to ______ the entire research team.”
Show answer
vex
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Vex is a medium-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "annoy" or "irritate" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "soothe".
Related GRE Words
antagonize
To cause someone to become hostile or angry
antipathy
a deep, settled feeling of dislike or aversion
vehement
showing intense, forceful feeling or conviction
chafe
To make sore by rubbing; to feel irritation or impatience
rancor
bitter, long-lasting resentment or ill will
ambivalent
Having mixed feelings or contradictory ideas about something
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