Exploring the Intangible: Understanding a Crucial GRE Vocabulary Word
This video explores the meaning, usage, and importance of the word ‘intangible’, a key vocabulary term that is often encountered on the GRE exam. Learn how to use this word correctly to express abstract concepts and ideas.
Imagine trying to grab a handful of air or attempting to touch a memory. These are perfect examples of things that are intangible.
Today, we’re exploring the word intangible, a term you might encounter on the GRE and one that’s crucial for expressing abstract concepts.
Word type: Intangible is primarily used as an adjective, though it can also function as a noun.
Meaning: Intangible refers to something that cannot be touched or grasped physically.
It describes things that are impalpable, incorporeal, or exist only as an idea or quality rather than as a physical object.
Word history: The term intangible comes from the Latin word tangere, meaning to touch. The prefix in- means not, so intangible literally translates to not touchable.
It entered the English language in the early seventeenth century.
Antonyms: Some opposites of intangible include tangible, concrete, physical, and material.
Synonyms: Words with similar meanings to intangible are abstract, immaterial, incorporeal, and impalpable.
Examples use in sentences: Let’s look at how to use intangible in context. The company’s brand reputation is an intangible asset that significantly contributes to its market value.
The joy of helping others is an intangible reward that money can’t buy. Scientists struggle to measure the intangible effects of stress on overall health.
Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing intangible with invisible. While both words describe things that can’t be perceived, invisible specifically refers to sight, while intangible relates to touch.
Another error is using intangible to describe emotions. While emotions are abstract, they are often described as felt, so using tangible-related words can be more appropriate.
Understanding and correctly using words like intangible can elevate your vocabulary and help you express complex ideas more precisely.
This skill is particularly valuable in the analytical and verbal reasoning sections of the GRE. Remember, intangible things may not be touchable, but their impact on language and communication is undeniably real.
