universal

/ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl̩/

Group 20Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(adjective)
Relating to or affecting all people or things in the world or in a particular group; applicable to all cases
GRE

Example in Context

The declaration articulated principles of human dignity that the signatories described as universal and non-negotiable.

Synonyms

worldwideglobalall-encompassing

Etymology

Turning towards one, encompassing all.

  • uni- (Latin) — one
  • versus (Latin) — to turn

Memory Aid

🌌Sounds like “universe all

In the UNIVERSE ALL, every alien species agrees on one thing — they LOVE pizza!

Visual Association

🌍A globe surrounded by various aliens, all enjoying pizza together in harmony.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “universal” mean on the GRE?

universal (adjective) means “Relating to or affecting all people or things in the world or in a particular group; applicable to all cases”. The declaration articulated principles of human dignity that the signatories described as universal and non-negotiable.

How to remember “universal” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “universal” sounds like “universe all”. In the UNIVERSE ALL, every alien species agrees on one thing — they LOVE pizza!

What are synonyms for “universal”?

Common synonyms: worldwide, global, all-encompassing.