ASVAB Word Knowledge: 500 Essential Vocabulary Words to Know
Master the ASVAB Word Knowledge section with our comprehensive list of 500 essential vocabulary words. Includes definitions, example sentences, and study strategies.
Why Word Knowledge Matters
The Word Knowledge (WK) section is one of four subtests that determine your AFQT score. With only 8 minutes to answer 16 questions on the CAT-ASVAB, you need to recognize vocabulary instantly.
How the Word Knowledge Section Works
Each WK question follows one of two formats:
Format 1 - Simple Definition:
> RESILIENT most nearly means:
> A) Weak
> B) Flexible and recovering quickly
> C) Rigid
> D) Heavy
Format 2 - Context Clues:
> The soldier's VALOR in battle earned him a medal. VALOR means:
> A) Fear
> B) Courage
> C) Speed
> D) Strength
Level 1: Foundation Words (Score 31-40)
Action Words
| Word | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| **Abandon** | Leave behind completely | They had to abandon the vehicle |
| **Acquire** | Get or obtain | He will acquire new skills |
| **Conceal** | Hide from view | Conceal the equipment |
| **Diminish** | Make or become smaller | The supplies will diminish |
| **Establish** | Set up or create | Establish a base camp |
Descriptive Words
| Word | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| **Adequate** | Enough, sufficient | Adequate supplies |
| **Brief** | Short in time | A brief meeting |
| **Crucial** | Extremely important | Crucial information |
| **Durable** | Long-lasting | Durable equipment |
| **Essential** | Absolutely necessary | Essential gear |
Root Words, Prefixes, and Suffixes
Learning word parts helps you decode unfamiliar words.
Common Prefixes
| Prefix | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| **anti-** | against | antiwar, antifreeze |
| **pre-** | before | prevent, prepare |
| **re-** | again | return, rebuild |
| **sub-** | under | submarine, subordinate |
| **un-** | not | unable, unclear |
Common Roots
| Root | Meaning | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| **aud** | hear | audio, audible |
| **dict** | say, speak | dictate, predict |
| **port** | carry | transport, import |
| **vid/vis** | see | video, visible |
Study Strategies
- Flashcard Method - Study 10-15 new words daily
- Context Learning - Use each word in a sentence
- Word Family Groups - Learn related words together
- Daily Reading - Read and look up unfamiliar words
- Practice Tests - Take timed Word Knowledge tests
Practice Word Knowledge questions now →
Test-Taking Tips
- Read the entire question before looking at answers
- Eliminate obviously wrong answers first
- Look for word parts in unfamiliar words
- Use context clues when the word is in a sentence
- Don't overthink - your first instinct is often correct
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