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Essential Vocabulary for the GRE /

Fight Fire With Fire

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to vanquish
2-
veteran
3-
to wage
4-
trooper
5-
truce
6-
accord
7-
barracks
8-
battalion
9-
to blitz
10-
bloodshed
11-
blockade
12-
brigade
13-
to bombard
14-
brigadier general
15-
admiral
16-
to ambush
17-
armament
18-
ammunition
19-
to assassinate
20-
cavalry
21-
ceasefire
22-
civilian
23-
cold war
24-
to conquer
25-
to conspire
26-
contingent
27-
coup
28-
court martial
29-
curfew
30-
evacuation
31-
garrison
32-
incendiary
33-
to infiltrate
34-
legionary
35-
mercenary
36-
marauder
37-
militia
38-
to mobilize
39-
to pillage
40-
rebellion
to vanquish
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/ˈvæŋkwɪʃ/
Verb

to defeat someone completely and decisively

synonymbeat
synonymbeat out
synonymcrush
synonymshell
synonymtrounce
example
Example
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The general's strategic brilliance enabled the troops to vanquish the enemy, leading to their unconditional surrender.
The commander devised a plan to vanquish the rebel uprising, reclaiming control over the disputed territories.
The hero embarked on a quest to vanquish the evil sorcerer and restore peace to the kingdom.

Grammatical Information:

transitive
to vanquish
veteran
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/ˈvɛtɝən/, /ˈvɛtɹən/
Verb

a former member of the armed forces who has fought in a war

synonymex-serviceman
synonymvet
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Example
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The veterans gathered at the memorial to honor fallen comrades on Veterans Day.
The organization provides support services for homeless veterans in the community.
He became a veteran after serving two tours of duty in Afghanistan.
to wage
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/ˈweɪdʒ/
Verb

to participate in and carry out a specific action, such as a war or campaign

synonymengage

Grammatical Information:

transitive
trooper
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/ˈtɹupɝ/
Verb

a soldier of low rank who is a member of the military unit that uses either strong covering or vehicles protected by them

synonymcavalryman
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Example
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The trooper followed orders from the higher-ranking officers during the mission.
The deployment required each trooper to be familiar with both combat and vehicle operations.
Each trooper in the unit was equipped with full protective gear.
trooper
truce
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/ˈtɹus/
Verb

an agreement according to which enemies or opponents stop fighting each other for a specific period of time

synonymarmistice
synonymcease-fire
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Example
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The leaders signed a truce, hoping it would lead to a lasting peace agreement and end the conflict.
During the Christmas truce of 1914, soldiers from both sides emerged from their trenches to exchange greetings and play football.
The truce was fragile, with both sides wary of each other's intentions and ready to resume hostilities at any moment.
accord
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/əˈkɔɹd/
Verb

an official agreement between two countries or groups of people

synonympact
synonymtreaty
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The accord between the companies outlined the terms of their partnership.
They reached an accord on environmental policies during the summit.
The nations agreed to a ceasefire accord after months of negotiations.
barracks
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/ˈbæɹəks/, /ˈbɛɹəks/
Verb

a building or a set of buildings for soldiers to live in

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The historic barracks, now a museum, offer a glimpse into the daily lives of soldiers from the past.
The barracks were filled with the sounds of camaraderie as soldiers shared stories and jokes in their free time.
After a long day of training, the recruits returned to their barracks to rest and recuperate.
What is a "barracks"?

A barracks is a building or group of buildings used to house soldiers or other military personnel. These structures are typically simple, functional, and designed to accommodate large numbers of people. Barracks often include shared rooms or dormitory-style living spaces, as well as common areas for eating, recreation, and other activities. They are usually located near military bases or training grounds. The purpose of a barracks is to provide a place for soldiers to live, rest, and prepare for their duties, often with basic facilities to support their needs.

battalion
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/bəˈtæɫjən/
Verb

a military unit composed of a varying number of companies or platoons, typically commanded by a lieutenant colonel

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Each battalion had its own distinct set of responsibilities during the operation.
The battalion coordinated with other units for the large-scale exercise.
During the review, the general inspected each battalion for readiness.
to blitz
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/ˈbɫɪts/
Verb

to carry out a sudden and intense military attack

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The military commanders decided to blitz the enemy's positions, hoping to catch them off guard.
The air force executed a strategic plan to blitz key enemy installations, disrupting their command and control.
bloodshed
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/ˈblʌdˌʃed/
Verb

nnecessary spilling of blood, typically resulting from battles, conflicts, or acts of aggression

synonymbattue
synonymbloodbath
synonymbloodletting
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Example
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The international community condemned the bloodshed and called for an immediate end to the conflict.
The soldiers were haunted by the memories of the bloodshed they witnessed on the battlefield.
Diplomatic efforts aimed to negotiate a peace settlement and end the cycle of bloodshed.
blockade
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/ˌbɫɑˈkeɪd/
Verb

a military action where the enemy is prevented from letting people or equipment through a certain area; often enforced with armed forces

synonymencirclement
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Example
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The rebels imposed a blockade on the main road to the capital.
The army set up a blockade to control the movement of troops.
The city was under blockade, cutting off all supply routes.
brigade
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/bɹəˈɡeɪd/, /bɹɪˈɡeɪd/
Verb

a large group of trained soldiers that is smaller than a division

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Example
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The general commanded the brigade during the military exercise.
Each brigade was assigned a specific sector of the battlefield.
The brigade was deployed to the front lines for the operation.
to bombard
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/bɑmˈbɑɹd/
Verb

to drop bombs on someone or something continuously

synonymbomb
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The navy ships would bombard the enemy coastal defenses before the amphibious landing.
In the siege, the castle walls were bombarded by catapults and trebuchets.
During the war, the enemy aircraft would bombard the city with relentless airstrikes.
to bombard
brigadier general
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/bɹˌɪɡɐdˈɪɹ dʒˈɛnɚɹəl/
Verb

an officer in the army who is ranked between a colonel and a major general

synonymbrigadier
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Example
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At the ceremony, the brigadier general reviewed the troops.
The brigadier general addressed the troops before the operation.
The brigadier general was in charge of the division’s strategic planning.

Grammatical Information:

compound noun
admiral
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/ˈædmɝəɫ/
Verb

the highest-ranking officer in a fleet

synonymfull admiral
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Example
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The admiral stood on the deck, surveying the fleet with a sense of pride and responsibility.
The admiral issued orders to prepare the ships for the upcoming mission, ensuring every detail was meticulously planned.
The young cadets listened intently as the admiral shared his experiences and insights from decades at sea.
to ambush
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/ˈæmˌbʊʃ/
Verb

to wait in a concealed location and launch a surprise attack on a target

synonymambuscade
synonymbushwhack
synonymlie in wait
synonymlurk
synonymscupper
synonymwaylay
example
Example
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The hunters silently ambushed the prey, waiting patiently for the perfect moment to strike.
The guerrilla fighters planned to ambush the enemy convoy on the narrow mountain pass.
Special forces were tasked to ambush the insurgent group during their nighttime patrol.
to ambush
armament
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/ˈɑɹməmənt/
Verb

the military equipment and weaponry used by a country or military force

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The arms manufacturer showcased its latest armament innovations, attracting interest from various military branches around the world.
The arms embargo limited the country's access to advanced armament, affecting its ability to defend against external threats.
The country invested heavily in modernizing its armament, acquiring advanced missile defense systems and fighter jets.
armament
ammunition
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/ˌæmjəˈnɪʃən/
Verb

projectiles, bullets, shells, or explosive devices used in firearms, artillery, or other weapons

synonymammo
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The sniper carefully selected the appropriate ammunition for the specific mission requirements.
The soldiers replenished their ammunition supplies before heading into the battlefield.
The artillery unit stockpiled a vast quantity of ammunition for the upcoming military operation.
to assassinate
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/əˈsæsəˌneɪt/
Verb

to murder a prominent figure in a sudden attack, usually for political purposes

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Example
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The skilled sniper successfully assassinated the prime minister without being detected.
A lone gunman attempted to assassinate the president during the public event.
In the historical account, a plot was uncovered to assassinate the king.

Grammatical Information:

transitive
cavalry
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/ˈkævəɫɹi/
Verb

a group of soldiers in an army who fight by armored vehicles

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The cavalry led the charge during the battle.
During the war, the cavalry was known for its rapid mobility.
The cavalry's armored vehicles provided crucial support to the infantry.
ceasefire
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/ˈsisˈfaɪɝ/
Verb

a temporary peace during a battle or war when discussions regarding permanent peace is taking place

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The ceasefire provided a much-needed break from the fighting.
The ceasefire was a sign of progress in the peace negotiations.
Both armies respected the ceasefire and halted their attacks.
civilian
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/səˈvɪɫjən/
Verb

a person who is not a member of or not on active duty in armed forces or the police

antonymserviceman
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Example
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Civilians were urged to stay indoors during the security operation.
The charity provided aid to civilians affected by the conflict.
As a civilian, she was not allowed access to the military base.
cold war
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/kˈoʊld wˈɔːɹ/
Verb

a state of unfriendly relationship between two states which are not openly at war with each other

antonymhot war
example
Example
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A cold war developed between the neighboring countries over territorial disputes.
Cultural exchanges were rare during the cold war between the two regions.
The two nations have been in a cold war for decades, avoiding direct conflict.

Grammatical Information:

compound noun
to conquer
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/ˈkɑŋkɝ/
Verb

to gain control of a place or people using armed forces

synonymstamp down
synonymsubdue
synonymsuppress
example
Example
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The army worked strategically to conquer the enemy's territory.
Throughout history, powerful empires sought to conquer new lands.
The warlord aimed to conquer neighboring regions to expand his dominion.

Grammatical Information:

transitive
to conspire
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/kənˈspaɪɝ/
Verb

to make secret plans with other people to commit an illegal or destructive act

synonymcollude
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Example
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The group of individuals conspired to carry out a heist on the bank.
The political scandal involved high-profile figures conspiring to manipulate public opinion.
The court found evidence that the suspects had conspired to commit white-collar crimes.
to conspire
contingent
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/kənˈtɪndʒənt/
Verb

a group of military personnel sent to join a larger force

synonymdetail
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A contingent from the naval fleet joined the international exercises.
An elite contingent was deployed for a special operation.
A contingent of pilots was assigned to the airbase overseas.
coup
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/ˈku/
Verb

an unexpected, illegal, and often violent attempt to change a government

synonymcoup d'etat
synonymputsch
synonymtakeover
example
Example
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The failed coup attempt led to widespread political instability and social unrest.
The country's history was marked by several unsuccessful coup attempts during its transition to democracy.
International condemnation followed the military's coup d'état, urging a return to democratic governance.
court martial
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/kˈoːɹt mˈɑːɹʃəl/
Verb

a legal procedure for military personnel who break military laws; leading to charges against them

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Example
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The soldier faced a court martial for disobeying orders.
He awaited the outcome of the court martial nervously.
The officer's actions led to a court martial and subsequent conviction.
curfew
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/ˈkɝfju/
Verb

an order or law that prohibits people from going outside after a specific time, particularly at night

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The parents set a curfew for their teenagers, expecting them to be home by midnight on weekends.
During the state of emergency, the mayor announced a curfew to prevent looting and ensure order.
The government imposed a strict curfew, requiring everyone to be indoors by 9 PM to maintain public safety.
evacuation
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/iˈvækjəˈweɪʃən/, /ɪˌvækjəˈweɪʃən/
Verb

the action of transferring people or being transferred to somewhere else to be safe from a dangerous situation

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Example
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The military organized the evacuation of civilians from the war-torn region, providing safe passage to refugee camps.
The fire department coordinated the evacuation of the building after a gas leak was detected.
The embassy issued a travel advisory and facilitated the evacuation of citizens from the conflict zone.
garrison
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/ˈɡæɹɪsən/
Verb

a group of military personnel stationed in a specific location or military base, often for the purpose of defending it

synonymfort
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The garrison in the mountain outpost endured harsh weather conditions as they maintained a vigilant presence.
The military commander reviewed the readiness of the garrison to ensure preparedness for any unforeseen events.
Troops from the garrison were dispatched to respond to a potential threat along the disputed border.
incendiary
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/ˌɪnˈsɛndiɛɹi/
Verb

a device created to cause explosion and fire in order to completely destroy something

synonymfirebomb
synonymincendiary bomb
example
Example
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The police found an incendiary hidden in the abandoned building.
Security forces defused the incendiary before it could detonate.
They used an incendiary to start a fire in the warehouse.
to infiltrate
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/ˈɪnfɪɫˌtɹeɪt/
Verb

to secretly enter an organization or group with the aim of spying on its members or gathering information

synonympenetrate
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The undercover agent successfully infiltrated the criminal organization to gather evidence.
The journalist managed to infiltrate the private event to gather exclusive details for the story.
During the Cold War, intelligence agencies attempted to infiltrate enemy organizations for espionage.

Grammatical Information:

transitive
legionary
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/lˈiːdʒənˌɛɹi/
Verb

a soldier who fights in a very large group that is a part of an army called legion

synonymlegionnaire
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The legionary stood guard at the camp entrance.
The legionary marched with his unit to the battlefield.
Each legionary wore armor and carried a shield.
mercenary
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/ˈmɝsəˌnɛɹi/
Verb

a professional soldier hired to serve in a foreign army, often motivated by payment rather than ideological or national allegiance

synonymsoldier of fortune
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Example
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The army hired mercenaries to bolster its forces during the conflict in the region.
During the war, the government enlisted mercenaries to provide specialized skills in combat.
Mercenaries played a crucial role in historical battles, often fighting for the side that offered the most lucrative compensation.
marauder
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/mɝˈɔdɝ/
Verb

a person or an animal that wanders around in search of places to destroy, people to kill and steal from

synonympiranha
synonympredator
synonymvulture
example
Example
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The marauders fled into the forest after the attack.
The livestock were stolen by a gang of marauders.
The village was raided by a group of marauders.
militia
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/məˈɫɪʃə/, /mɪˈɫɪʃə/
Verb

a military group consisting of civilians who have been trained as soldiers to help the army in emergencies

synonymreserves
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Example
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During the Revolutionary War, militias played a crucial role in securing victories against the British forces.
In times of war, militias often supplement regular armed forces, providing additional manpower and support.
The militia members underwent rigorous training to ensure they could effectively assist the army during emergencies.
to mobilize
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/ˈmoʊbəˌɫaɪz/
Verb

(of a state) to organize and prepare for a military operation

antonymdemobilize
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Example
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The military commanders swiftly mobilized troops to secure the border.
In response to the threat, the country decided to mobilize its military forces.
The nation's leaders took immediate action to mobilize the air force in response to the hostile incursion.
to pillage
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/ˈpɪɫɪdʒ/
Verb

to plunder, typically during times of war or civil unrest

synonymdespoil
synonymforay
synonymloot
synonymplunder
synonymransack
synonymreave
example
Example
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The invading forces systematically pillaged strategic locations, disrupting the local economy.
In times of chaos, looters took advantage of the situation to pillage stores and homes.
During the siege, marauding forces sought to pillage the city, taking whatever valuables they could find.
rebellion
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/ɹɪˈbɛɫjən/
Verb

an organized action, usually violent, against an authority, attempting to bring about a change

synonyminsurrection
synonymrevolt
synonymrising
synonymuprising
example
Example
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The rebellion was sparked by harsh government policies.
A rebellion broke out after the new tax laws were introduced.
The leaders of the rebellion were captured and put on trial.
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