compromise
/ˈkɒmpɹəˌmaɪz/
Group 13Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To accept standards that are lower than desirable; to bring into disrepute or danger GRE
Example in Context
The leaked memo compromised the agency's intelligence sources, putting operatives in several countries at grave risk.
Synonyms
settlenegotiatemeet halfway
Etymology
To bring together different parties by making less-than-ideal promises.
- com- (Latin) — together
- promittere (Latin) — to promise
Memory Aid
🤝Sounds like “come promise”
Imagine a shady character saying 'COME PROMISE!' to a group, offering them less than they deserve — that's a COMPROMISE!
Visual Association
🤷Two friends reluctantly shaking hands, each looking disappointed as they settle for less than they wanted.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “compromise” mean on the GRE?
compromise (verb) means “To accept standards that are lower than desirable; to bring into disrepute or danger”. The leaked memo compromised the agency's intelligence sources, putting operatives in several countries at grave risk.
How to remember “compromise” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “compromise” sounds like “come promise”. Imagine a shady character saying 'COME PROMISE!' to a group, offering them less than they deserve — that's a COMPROMISE!
What are synonyms for “compromise”?
Common synonyms: settle, negotiate, meet halfway.