GRE Confusing Words Practice
expletive / ˈɛksplətɪv /invective / ɪnˈvɛktɪv /
1
The editorial abandoned reasoned criticism and descended into ____, attacking the mayor with vicious personal insults.
2
The broadcaster replaced the actor's ____ with a loud beep so viewers would not hear the swear word.
3
When he hit his thumb with the hammer, he shouted an ____ that made the children cover their ears.
4
Her speech was a torrent of ____ against her former colleagues, filled with abusive accusations and contemptuous name-calling.
Note
| Expletive | Invective | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | A swear word or curse | Harsh, insulting, or abusive language |
| Emphasis | Profanity | Verbal attack |
| Typical form | A single word | A string of insults or angry remarks |
Key distinction
- Expletive: "Damn!" or "Fuck!"
- Invective: "You're an incompetent, dishonest fool who has ruined everything!"
An invective can contain expletives, but it doesn't have to.