The Meaning and Usage of ‘Solicitous’
Explore the definition, history, and proper use of the word ‘solicitous’ to enhance your GRE vocabulary. Learn how to effectively incorporate this adjective describing excessive care and concern into your writing.
Imagine you’re at a fancy restaurant, and the waiter keeps hovering nearby, constantly asking if everything is okay or if you need anything.
That waiter is being solicitous. But what exactly does this word mean, and how can you use it effectively in your GRE preparation?
Let’s find out.
Word type: Solicitous is an adjective.
Meaning: Solicitous means showing care, attention, or concern, often to an excessive degree.
It describes someone who is anxious to do something correctly or to please others.
Word history: The word solicitous comes from the Latin word sollicitus, meaning anxious or concerned.
It entered the English language in the fifteenth century and has since been used to describe people who show a great deal of care or concern for others.
Synonyms: Some synonyms for solicitous include attentive, concerned, careful, mindful, and thoughtful.
Antonyms: Antonyms for solicitous include indifferent, unconcerned, careless, and neglectful.
Examples use in sentences:
The new mother was solicitous about her baby’s health, calling the pediatrician at the slightest sign of discomfort.
Despite his gruff exterior, the old shopkeeper was surprisingly solicitous towards his regular customers, always remembering their preferences.
The hotel staff was overly solicitous, making some guests feel uncomfortable with their constant offers of assistance.
Common errors in use: One common error when using solicitous is confusing it with solicitous’s noun form, solicitude.
While solicitous is an adjective describing a person or behavior, solicitude is a noun referring to the state of being solicitous or the act of showing concern.
Another mistake is using solicitous when you mean to use solicit, which is a verb meaning to ask for or try to obtain something.
For example, The charity solicited donations from local businesses is correct, but The charity was solicitous donations from local businesses is incorrect.
Lastly, be careful not to overuse solicitous in your writing. While it’s a great word to know, using it too frequently can make your writing seem repetitive or forced.
Understanding and correctly using words like solicitous can significantly boost your GRE verbal score.
Remember, solicitous implies a caring and attentive nature, sometimes to an excessive degree. Practice using this word in your own sentences to fully grasp its meaning and usage.
With consistent effort, you’ll find yourself confidently employing sophisticated vocabulary in no time.
