Vitiate
hardNegative toneVISH-ee-ayt
verb
Definition
To spoil or impair the quality or efficiency of; to corrupt
Memory hook
VITI-ATE: introducing a VICE (vitium) into something good — to spoil and corrupt.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“Errors vitiated the research findings.”
“Corruption vitiated the entire process.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“Errors ______ the research findings.”
Show answer
vitiated
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Vitiate is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "impair" or "undermine" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "enhance".
Related GRE Words
adulterate
To make something poorer in quality by adding another substance
subvert
To undermine the power and authority of an established system or institution
baneful
Causing harm or ruin; pernicious; destructive
deleterious
Causing harm or damage; injurious
impair
to weaken or damage, especially in function
insidious
Proceeding in a gradual, subtle way with harmful effects
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