invidious
/ɪnˈvɪdi.əs/
Group 13Difficulty 3/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Likely to arouse resentment or anger in others; unfairly discriminating GRE
Example in Context
The policy drew invidious distinctions between citizens born in the country and those who had gained citizenship through naturalization.
Synonyms
unfairoffensivehateful
Etymology
From Latin, meaning not seen positively—likely to provoke envy.
- in- (Latin) — not
- videre (Latin) — to see
Memory Aid
📹Sounds like “in video us”
In a bad movie, the INVIDIOUS character steals the spotlight and makes the audience groan, 'NOT AGAIN!'
Visual Association
😠Two friends glaring at each other over a trophy, filled with jealousy and resentment.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “invidious” mean on the GRE?
invidious (adjective) means “Likely to arouse resentment or anger in others; unfairly discriminating”. The policy drew invidious distinctions between citizens born in the country and those who had gained citizenship through naturalization.
How to remember “invidious” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “invidious” sounds like “in video us”. In a bad movie, the INVIDIOUS character steals the spotlight and makes the audience groan, 'NOT AGAIN!'
What are synonyms for “invidious”?
Common synonyms: unfair, offensive, hateful.