The PSAT 8/9 tests vocabulary in context: a Reading and Writing question gives you a passage and asks which word fits, and the wrong answers are usually words that are close in meaning. Studying a whole theme at once is what builds that discrimination — you learn not just what each word means, but how it differs from its neighbors.
Read the definition, then the example, then the memory cue. Come back a few days later and cover the definitions — recalling a word cold is what fixes it, and rereading it is not.
The 8 words
Alphabetical. Everything in the Courage & Fear guide.
01
boldadjective
showing courage and confidence; daring (also: showing a willingness to take risks)
Her bold decision to speak up changed the direction of the meeting, giving observers a clear view of the person's response to genuine danger.
Memory cueA bold person steps into the spotlight with courage instead of shrinking back.
02
courageousadjective
not deterred by danger or pain
The courageous witness testified, giving observers a clear view of the person's response to genuine danger.
Memory cueA courageous person moves toward danger despite pain or fear.
03
cowardlyadjective
lacking courage
The cowardly bully backed down, giving observers a clear view of the person's response to genuine danger.
Memory cueA cowardly figure runs from a tiny danger and leaves courage behind.
04
dangerousadjective
able or likely to cause harm or injury
The icy roads made driving conditions dangerous for commuters, giving observers a clear view of the person's response to genuine danger.
Memory cueA dangerous path carries a warning sign because it is likely to cause harm.
05
daringadjective
adventurous or audaciously bold
The daring rescue made headlines, giving observers a clear view of the person's response to genuine danger.
Memory cueA daring adventurer boldly crosses the risky gap.
06
fearfuladjective
feeling afraid; showing fear
The fearful passengers gripped their seats, revealing how the person responded when the risks became immediate and difficult to ignore.
Memory cueA fearful person trembles beneath a danger sign.
07
heroicadjective
having the characteristics of a hero
His heroic efforts saved lives, showing whether fear or resolve guided the decision made under pressure.
Memory cueA heroic figure risks personal safety to protect or rescue others.
08
riskyadjective
full of the possibility of danger, failure, or loss
Investing all your savings in one stock is risky, giving observers a clear view of the person's response to genuine danger.
Memory cueA risky path crosses a cracked bridge above signs for danger, failure, and loss.
