About Word Knowledge

Word Knowledge is a critical AFQT component that tests your vocabulary breadth and depth. Questions come in two formats: identifying synonyms (which word means the same as the given word) and understanding words in context (what does the underlined word mean in this sentence). On the CAT-ASVAB, you have approximately 9 minutes for 15 questions. Because WK is weighted double in the AFQT formula (AFQT = AR + MK + 2 x (WK + PC)), improving your vocabulary has an outsized impact on your overall score. The WK score, combined with PC, forms the Verbal Expression (VE) composite used by many branches.

Topics Covered

Synonyms & Antonyms
Context Clues
Word Roots & Prefixes
Suffixes & Word Endings
Common SAT/GRE Vocabulary
Military-Related Terminology
Scientific & Technical Terms
Figurative Language
Connotation vs. Denotation
Multiple-Meaning Words

Sample Questions

Sample Question 1
'Fickle' most nearly means:
  • Loyal
  • Changing frequently
  • Stable
  • Reliable
Fickle means changing frequently, especially in loyalties or affections.
Sample Question 2
'Rapid' most nearly means:
  • Slow
  • Quick
  • Careful
  • Heavy
Rapid means happening in a short time or at great speed.
Sample Question 3
'Complacent' most nearly means:
  • Anxious
  • Self-satisfied
  • Ambitious
  • Worried
Complacent means showing smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself.

Study Tips for Word Knowledge

Learn Word Roots

Knowing common Latin and Greek roots (e.g., 'bene' = good, 'mal' = bad, 'port' = carry) helps you decode unfamiliar words on the test.

Read Widely

The best way to build vocabulary is through reading. Read newspapers, magazines, and books at or above your reading level.

Use Our Vocabulary Flashcards

Our vocabulary study tool has 320 essential ASVAB words with definitions, example sentences, and audio pronunciation. Use it daily for best results.