naive

/naɪˈiːv/

Group 19Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(adjective)
Showing a lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment; innocent and unsophisticated
GRE

Example in Context

It would be naive to assume that all parties to the agreement will abide by its terms without robust enforcement mechanisms.

Synonyms

innocentgullibletrusting

Etymology

Describes someone who is innocent and lacks experience, as if untouched by the world.

  • naïf (French) — natural

Memory Aid

🌙Sounds like “nigh eve

Imagine a little girl named ‘EVE’ who believes the moon is nigh, thinking it’s made of cheese — she’s NAIVE!

Visual Association

👶A young child staring wide-eyed at the stars, believing in every fairy tale without a doubt.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “naive” mean on the GRE?

naive (adjective) means “Showing a lack of experience, wisdom, or judgment; innocent and unsophisticated”. It would be naive to assume that all parties to the agreement will abide by its terms without robust enforcement mechanisms.

How to remember “naive” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “naive” sounds like “nigh eve”. Imagine a little girl named ‘EVE’ who believes the moon is nigh, thinking it’s made of cheese — she’s NAIVE!

What are synonyms for “naive”?

Common synonyms: innocent, gullible, trusting.