pernicious
/pəˈnɪʃəs/
Group 18Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (adjective)
- Having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way GRE
Example in Context
The pernicious effects of misinformation are often invisible until they have already undermined public trust in essential institutions.
Synonyms
harmfuldamagingdestructive
Etymology
Causing harm through a gradual process, like a slow poison.
- per- (Latin) — through
- nex (Latin) — to kill
Memory Aid
🐍Sounds like “Pernickety”
A PERNICIOUS snake sneaks through the grass, being so pernickety it slowly poisons its prey!
Visual Association
🦠A tiny germ wearing a sneaky mask, stealthily spreading illness among unsuspecting victims.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “pernicious” mean on the GRE?
pernicious (adjective) means “Having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way”. The pernicious effects of misinformation are often invisible until they have already undermined public trust in essential institutions.
How to remember “pernicious” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “pernicious” sounds like “Pernickety”. A PERNICIOUS snake sneaks through the grass, being so pernickety it slowly poisons its prey!
What are synonyms for “pernicious”?
Common synonyms: harmful, damaging, destructive.