Verbs used to describe purpose of Sentences, Paragraphs and Passages

Question

Here are the consolidated list of verbs that are used to describe the purpose of sentences, Paragraphs and Passages

1. Illustrate: To provide examples or explain a concept more clearly through specific instances or details.
- Example: The paragraph may illustrate a theoretical concept with real-world examples.

2. Introduce: To present a new idea, topic, or argument for the first time.
- Example: The paragraph may introduce the main thesis of the passage.

3. Explain: To make an idea or process clear by describing it in more detail.
- Example: The paragraph may explain the reasons behind a particular phenomenon.

4. Support: To back up or reinforce an argument or point made earlier in the text.
- Example: The paragraph may support the main argument with additional evidence.

5. Contrast: To compare two or more ideas, highlighting their differences.
- Example: The paragraph may contrast different viewpoints on a topic.

6. Criticize: To evaluate or analyze something in a way that points out its faults or shortcomings.
- Example: The paragraph may criticize a particular theory or approach.

7. Refute: To disprove or argue against an idea or claim.
- Example: The paragraph may refute an opposing argument with counter-evidence.

8. Summarize: To give a brief statement of the main points.
- Example: The paragraph may summarize the findings of a study or the key arguments of the passage.

9. Clarify: To make a statement or concept less confusing and more comprehensible.
- Example: The paragraph may clarify a previously mentioned idea by providing further details.

10. Describe: To give an account of something, typically in detail.
- Example: The paragraph may describe the features of a new scientific discovery.

11. Propose: To suggest a new idea, plan, or solution.
- Example: The paragraph may propose a new approach to solving a problem.

12. Analyze: To examine in detail to understand it better or to identify essential elements.
- Example: The paragraph may analyze the implications of a particular finding.

13. Argue: To present reasons for or against something.
- Example: The paragraph may argue in favor of a specific theory.

14. Discuss: To talk about (a topic) in detail, considering different ideas and opinions.
- Example: The paragraph may discuss various perspectives on an issue.

15. Highlight: To emphasize or draw attention to something important.
- Example: The paragraph may highlight the key benefits of a new technology.

16. Compare: To examine the similarities and/or differences between two or more items.
- Example: The paragraph may compare two different research methodologies.

17. Evaluate: To assess or appraise the value, significance, or impact of something.
- Example: The paragraph may evaluate the effectiveness of a new policy.

18. Emphasize: To give special importance or prominence to something in speaking or writing.
- Example: The paragraph may emphasize the critical role of early education.

19. Reinforce: To strengthen or support an idea or argument, especially with additional evidence or reasoning.
- Example: The paragraph may reinforce the main argument with statistical data.

20. Examine: To inspect, study, or scrutinize something in detail.
- Example: The paragraph may examine the historical context of an event.

21. Acknowledge: To recognize the existence, validity, or importance of something.
- Example: The paragraph may acknowledge counterarguments to the main thesis.

22. Prove: To demonstrate the truth or validity of something by argument or evidence.
- Example: The paragraph may prove a hypothesis with experimental results.

23. Defend: To support or justify an argument or position against criticism.
- Example: The paragraph may defend the author's viewpoint against opposing views.

24. Synthesize: To combine different ideas or information to form a coherent whole.
- Example: The paragraph may synthesize various studies to draw a comprehensive conclusion.

25. Address: To deal with or discuss a particular issue or topic.
- Example: The paragraph may address the limitations of a certain study.

26. Predict: To state what might happen in the future based on current information or trends.
- Example: The paragraph may predict future developments in a particular field.

27. Question: To raise doubts or uncertainties about something.
- Example: The paragraph may question the validity of a widely accepted theory.

28. Trace: To follow the development or progression of something over time.
- Example: The paragraph may trace the evolution of a scientific concept.

29. Explore: To examine or investigate something thoroughly.
- Example: The paragraph may explore the implications of a new discovery.

30. Outline: To give a brief summary or overview of something.
- Example: The paragraph may outline the main points of an argument.

31. Reiterate: To repeat or emphasize a point already made.
- Example: The paragraph may reiterate the main argument to ensure clarity.

32. Identify: To recognize and name something or someone.
- Example: The paragraph may identify key factors contributing to a problem.

33. Suggest: To put forward an idea or plan for consideration.
- Example: The paragraph may suggest potential solutions to an issue.

34. Review: To critically assess and summarize the content of something.
- Example: The paragraph may review the literature on a specific topic.

35. Validate: To confirm the truth or accuracy of something.
- Example: The paragraph may validate a hypothesis with supporting evidence.

36. Justify: To provide reasons or arguments to support a particular stance.
- Example: The paragraph may justify the need for a new policy.

37. Qualify: To modify or restrict a statement by adding conditions or limitations.
- Example: The paragraph may qualify an argument by acknowledging certain exceptions.

38. Report: To give an account of something observed, heard, done, or investigated.
- Example: The paragraph may report the results of a recent survey.

39. Contextualize: To place something in context to provide understanding or background.
- Example: The paragraph may contextualize a historical event within a broader timeline.

40. Debate: To discuss different sides of an argument.
- Example: The paragraph may debate the merits and drawbacks of a specific approach.

41. Speculate: To form a theory or conjecture without firm evidence.
- Example: The paragraph may speculate on the future impact of a current trend.

42. Detail: To describe or explain in a detailed manner.
- Example: The paragraph may detail the steps of a procedure.

43. Exemplify: To show or illustrate by example.
- Example: The paragraph may exemplify a theory with a case study.

44. Elaborate: To add more detail or information.
- Example: The paragraph may elaborate on a previously mentioned idea.

45. Anticipate: To expect or predict.
- Example: The paragraph may anticipate potential objections to the argument.

46. Negate: To nullify or make ineffective.
- Example: The paragraph may negate an opposing viewpoint with counter-evidence.

47. Contend: To argue or assert a point.
- Example: The paragraph may contend that a particular approach is superior.

48. Refine: To improve or perfect by making small changes.
- Example: The paragraph may refine a previous argument with new evidence.

49. Expand: To add more information or detail to something already mentioned.
- Example: The paragraph may expand on a previous point with additional data.

50. Imply: To suggest or indicate something indirectly.
- Example: The paragraph may imply the benefits of a new approach without stating them outright.

51. Demonstrate: To show or prove something clearly.
- Example: The paragraph may demonstrate the effectiveness of a technique through examples.

52. Infer: To deduce or conclude information from evidence and reasoning.
- Example: The paragraph may infer the implications of a study's findings.

53. Critique: To evaluate in a detailed and analytical manner.
- Example: The paragraph may critique the methods used in a research study.

54. Hypothesize: To propose a theory or explanation based on limited evidence.
- Example: The paragraph may hypothesize the potential outcomes of a proposed experiment.

55. Corroborate: To confirm or give support to a statement, theory, or finding.
- Example: The paragraph may corroborate an earlier claim with new evidence.

56. Survey: To look at or examine all parts of something.
- Example: The paragraph may survey the current state of research in a particular field.

57. Document: To record something in written form.
- Example: The paragraph may document the events leading up to a significant breakthrough.

58. Forecast: To predict or estimate a future event or trend.
- Example: The paragraph may forecast the potential impact of new legislation.

59. Underscore: To emphasize or stress something.
- Example: The paragraph may underscore the importance of early intervention in education.

60. Concede: To acknowledge as true, just, or proper.
- Example: The paragraph may concede a point to an opposing argument while maintaining the overall stance.

61. Debunk: To expose the falseness of a myth, idea, or belief.
- Example: The paragraph may debunk a widely held misconception about the topic.

62. Assess: To evaluate or estimate the nature, ability, or quality of something.
- Example: The paragraph may assess the effectiveness of different teaching methods.

63. Correlate: To show how two or more things are related or connected.
- Example: The paragraph may correlate economic trends with policy changes.

64. Conclude: To bring something to an end by forming an opinion or judgement.
- Example: The paragraph may conclude by summarizing the key findings of the study.

65. Amplify: To increase the strength or amount of something.
- Example: The paragraph may amplify the importance of early intervention.

66. Cite: To quote or refer to something as evidence.
- Example: The paragraph may cite statistics to support its claim.

67. Interpret: To explain the meaning of something.
- Example: The paragraph may interpret the data from a study.

68. Restate: To say something again or differently, especially more clearly.
- Example: The paragraph may restate the thesis in simpler terms.

69. Elucidate: To make something clear; explain.
- Example: The paragraph may elucidate the reasons behind the policy changes.

70. Endorse: To support or approve something.
- Example: The paragraph may endorse a specific viewpoint.

71. Reflect: To think deeply or carefully about something.
- Example: The paragraph may reflect on the implications of the findings.

72. Expose: To reveal or uncover something hidden.
- Example: The paragraph may expose flaws in the opposing argument.

73. Advocate: To publicly recommend or support something.
- Example: The paragraph may advocate for a particular policy change.

74. Depict: To represent or show something in a particular way.
- Example: The paragraph may depict the challenges faced by researchers.

75. Admonish: To warn or reprimand someone firmly.
- Example: The paragraph may admonish against common misconceptions.

76. Endeavor: To try hard to do or achieve something.
- Example: The paragraph may endeavor to explain the complex concept in simple terms.

77. Incorporate: To include or integrate a part into the whole.
- Example: The paragraph may incorporate recent studies into the discussion.

78. Broaden: To expand the scope or range of something.
- Example: The paragraph may broaden the discussion to include global perspectives.

79. Reveal: To make known to others.
- Example: The paragraph may reveal the underlying assumptions of the study.

80. Announce: To make something known publicly or officially.
- Example: The paragraph may announce the findings of a new research study.

81. Assert: To state a fact or belief confidently and forcefully.
- Example: The paragraph may assert that technology has transformed modern education.

82. Attribute: To regard something as being caused by.
- Example: The paragraph may attribute the success of a program to its comprehensive planning.

83. Balance: To present both sides of an issue or argument.
- Example: The paragraph may balance the pros and cons of a controversial policy.

84. Challenge: To question the validity or correctness of something.
- Example: The paragraph may challenge the assumptions made by previous researchers.

85. Commend: To praise formally or officially.
- Example: The paragraph may commend the efforts of a particular scientist.

86. Delineate: To describe or portray something precisely.
- Example: The paragraph may delineate the steps involved in a complex process.

87. Discredit: To harm the good reputation of someone or something.
- Example: The paragraph may discredit an outdated theory with new evidence.

88. Dispute: To argue about something; debate.
- Example: The paragraph may dispute the claims made by a rival researcher.

89. Distinguish: To recognize or treat as different.
- Example: The paragraph may distinguish between two similar but distinct concepts.

90. Encapsulate: To express the essential features of something succinctly.
- Example: The paragraph may encapsulate the main arguments of the paper.

91. Encourage: To give support, confidence, or hope to someone.
- Example: The paragraph may encourage further investigation into a promising field.

92. Illuminate: To light up; to help to clarify or explain.
- Example: The paragraph may illuminate the complexities of the issue.

93. Innovate: To make changes in something established.
- Example: The paragraph may innovate by proposing a novel solution to a problem.

94. Instigate: To bring about or initiate.
- Example: The paragraph may instigate a discussion on emerging technologies.

95. Magnify: To make something appear larger or more important.
- Example: The paragraph may magnify the significance of recent discoveries.

96. Mitigate: To make less severe, serious, or painful.
- Example: The paragraph may suggest ways to mitigate the negative effects of a policy.

97. Negotiate: To find a way through complex issues by discussion.
- Example: The paragraph may negotiate the balance between economic growth and environmental sustainability.

98. Portray: To depict someone or something in a particular way.
- Example: The paragraph may portray the challenges faced by minority groups.

99. Reconcile: To restore friendly relations or to find a way to make two different ideas or facts exist together.
- Example: The paragraph may reconcile conflicting viewpoints.

100. Redefine: To define again or differently.
- Example: The paragraph may redefine the concept of success in modern terms.

101. Relate: To make or show a connection between.
- Example: The paragraph may relate the findings to broader societal trends.

102. Scrutinize: To examine or inspect closely and thoroughly.
- Example: The paragraph may scrutinize the methodology of the research.

103. Substantiate: To provide evidence to support or prove the truth of something.
- Example: The paragraph may substantiate its claims with detailed data.

104. Transcend: To go beyond the limits of something abstract, typically a conceptual field or division.
- Example: The paragraph may transcend traditional views by proposing a new paradigm.

105. Undermine: To damage or weaken, especially gradually or insidiously.
- Example: The paragraph may undermine the credibility of an opposing argument.

106. Venerate: To regard with great respect.
- Example: The paragraph may venerate the contributions of a historical figure.

107. Vindicate: To clear someone of blame or suspicion.
- Example: The paragraph may vindicate a controversial figure by presenting new evidence.

108. Visualize: To form a mental image of; imagine.
- Example: The paragraph may help readers visualize the impact of a natural disaster.

109. Affirm: To state as a fact; assert strongly and publicly.
 - Example: The paragraph may affirm the importance of sustainable practices.

110. Characterize: To describe the distinctive nature or features of.
 - Example: The paragraph may characterize the author's writing style.

111. Classify: To arrange in categories based on shared qualities or characteristics.
 - Example: The paragraph may classify different types of renewable energy sources.

112. Collaborate: To work jointly on an activity or project.
 - Example: The paragraph may describe how scientists collaborate to achieve breakthroughs.

113. Deduce: To arrive at a conclusion by reasoning.
 - Example: The paragraph may deduce the implications of the data presented.

114. Define: To state or describe the nature, scope, or meaning of.
 - Example: The paragraph may define key terms used in the discussion.

115. Dissect: To analyze in detail to understand its structure.
 - Example: The paragraph may dissect the arguments to reveal underlying assumptions.

116. Embody: To give a tangible or visible form to.
 - Example: The paragraph may embody the principles discussed through an example.

117. Facilitate: To make an action or process easier.
 - Example: The paragraph may facilitate understanding by breaking down complex information.

118. Initiate: To begin or introduce.
 - Example: The paragraph may initiate a discussion on the future of technology.

119. Integrate: To combine with another to form a whole.
 - Example: The paragraph may integrate findings from different studies.

120. Narrate: To give a spoken or written account of.
 - Example: The paragraph may narrate the historical events leading to the discovery.

121. Proclaim: To announce officially or publicly.
 - Example: The paragraph may proclaim the success of the new policy.

122. Rationalize: To attempt to explain or justify with logical reasons.
 - Example: The paragraph may rationalize the need for regulatory changes.

123. Reference: To mention or allude to.
 - Example: The paragraph may reference previous studies to support its argument.

124. Refocus: To change the emphasis or direction of.
 - Example: The paragraph may refocus the discussion on a more relevant issue.

125. Simplify: To make less complex or easier to understand.
 - Example: The paragraph may simplify the concept with a straightforward example.

126. Structure: To arrange or organize according to a plan.
 - Example: The paragraph may structure the argument to enhance clarity.

127. Transition: To undergo or cause to undergo a process or period of change.
 - Example: The paragraph may transition from discussing one topic to another.

128. Verify: To make sure or demonstrate that something is true, accurate, or justified.
 - Example: The paragraph may verify the claims made with empirical data.

egmat · Answer

nagasatish  - Seems like a very good list. What is the source of the same?

nagasatish · Answer

egmat , I took note of verbs, while practising , that are used to describe the purpose.

I use ChatGPT to check meanings and etymology of a word. So I did the same in this case and examples are from ChatGPT.

I know this list is not entirely my effort, but posted this here, so that it might be helpful for someone else.

Posted from my mobile device

egmat · Answer

nagasatish  - this is your work. AI is just a tool (like excel) that we use. Kudos to you.

Verbs used to describe purpose of Sentences, Paragraphs and Passages

Prep Toolkit

Top 5 GMAT Debrief Videos

615 to 715 in 15 Days (Ria's Strategies)

More than Quant/Verbal Abilities: Speed vs. Accuracy

745 with Only Self-Prep and GMAT Club

From 555 to 765: 210-point Improvement

Perfect 805 Score Debrief by Julia

My Rewards