qualm
/kwɑːm/
Group 22Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (noun)
- An uneasy feeling of doubt, worry, or fear, especially about one's own conduct GRE
Example in Context
The executive showed no qualms about laying off loyal employees to meet quarterly targets demanded by shareholders.
Synonyms
doubtworryuneasiness
Etymology
An old term for a pang of worry or doubt.
- cwalma (Old English) — a pang, a feeling of unease
Memory Aid
😟Sounds like “calm”
When I’m not CALM, I get a QUALM about my embarrassing dance moves!
Visual Association
😨A person sweating nervously before stepping onto a stage, filled with doubt.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “qualm” mean on the GRE?
qualm (noun) means “An uneasy feeling of doubt, worry, or fear, especially about one's own conduct”. The executive showed no qualms about laying off loyal employees to meet quarterly targets demanded by shareholders.
How to remember “qualm” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “qualm” sounds like “calm”. When I’m not CALM, I get a QUALM about my embarrassing dance moves!
What are synonyms for “qualm”?
Common synonyms: doubt, worry, uneasiness.