devious
/ˈdiːvi.əs/
Group 33Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Showing a skillful use of underhanded tactics to achieve goals; not straightforward GRE
Example in Context
The accountant's devious methods of hiding corporate losses eventually unraveled when an external auditor noticed discrepancies in the quarterly filings.
Synonyms
sneakyunderhandedcrafty
Etymology
To stray away from the straightforward path, often using cunning tactics.
- de- (Latin) — away
- via (Latin) — way
Memory Aid
🦊Sounds like “devious”
A DEVIANT fox in a suit sneaks around, using DEVIUS tricks to steal all the chickens!
Visual Association
🐍A sneaky snake slithering through a maze, carefully avoiding traps while plotting its next move.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “devious” mean on the GRE?
devious (adjective) means “Showing a skillful use of underhanded tactics to achieve goals; not straightforward”. The accountant's devious methods of hiding corporate losses eventually unraveled when an external auditor noticed discrepancies in the quarterly filings.
How to remember “devious” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “devious” sounds like “devious”. A DEVIANT fox in a suit sneaks around, using DEVIUS tricks to steal all the chickens!
What are synonyms for “devious”?
Common synonyms: sneaky, underhanded, crafty.