Synonyms: Verbs About Communicating, Arguing, and Understanding - SSAT Upper Level: Verbal

"Decree" can function either as a noun or an verb. As a noun, a "decree" is a law or rule made by an authority; as an verb, it means to create such a law or rule and put it into effect. While "imperial" may seem like a good answer choice because someone who is imperial may issue decrees, "imperial" is not a synonym of "decree," so we should skip it. Of the listed answer choices, "command" is the closest synonym; it can similarly act as a noun or verb and means either an order issued by an authority or to issue such an order.

To "disparage" someone or something is to speak badly of it, insult it, or put it down.

"Corroborate" is a verb which means "confirm or give support to a statement, theory, or finding," so we need to find another verb which means "confirm." While "acclaim" might seem like the correct answer, it actually means "praise enthusiastically and publicly," and doesn't quite match the meaning of "confirm" that we're looking for. "Validate," on the other hand, means "check or prove the validity or accuracy of something," and since it is the closest in meaning to "corroborate," it is the correct answer.

"Redact" means to censure or prepare a written work for being published, or "edit."

"Incite"means to stir up or encourage, often regarding unlawful behavior.

"Laud" means to praise highly.

"Summon" means to urgently call someone.

"Acquiesce" means reluctantly agree to do something, so "agree" is the answer choice closest in meaning to "acquiesce."

"Pardon" means to forgive or excuse.

To admonish is to warn or caution someone.

Accede means to agree to a demand or to consent to something.

Jeer means to deride, heckle, or "taunt" someone.

Bicker means to argue about small things

Exalt means to hold someone/something in high regard, or to worship.

"Dictate" means to command or compel. Suggest is an anytonym because it means to provide an option. Invent means to create something. Cavort means to have fun. Buffet means to hit. None of these last three words have any relation to Dictate in this context.

Appeal means to make a serious or urgent request.

To revere someone is to have respect and awe for him or her. To honor someone is to show him or her a high degree of respect.

Commiserate means to express pity for or sympathize with someone.

To rebuke and to scold both mean to express disapproval.