renege
/ɹɪˈneɪɡ/
Group 22Difficulty 1/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To go back on a promise, undertaking, or contract GRE
Example in Context
The administration reneged on its campaign pledge to lower taxes, citing changed economic conditions that made the promise impractical.
Synonyms
back outbreak a promisedefault
Etymology
To deny or go back on a previously made promise.
- renegare (Latin) — to deny, to refuse
Memory Aid
🚫Sounds like “renegade”
The RENEGADE promised to share his treasure but then said, 'NOPE, I RENEGE!'
Visual Association
🤝A handshake suddenly turning into a fist, symbolizing betrayal of a promise.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “renege” mean on the GRE?
renege (verb) means “To go back on a promise, undertaking, or contract”. The administration reneged on its campaign pledge to lower taxes, citing changed economic conditions that made the promise impractical.
How to remember “renege” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “renege” sounds like “renegade”. The RENEGADE promised to share his treasure but then said, 'NOPE, I RENEGE!'
What are synonyms for “renege”?
Common synonyms: back out, break a promise, default.