compendium
Noun
Medium difficulty
What does “compendium” mean?
noun.a collection of concise but detailed information about a particular subject.
SAT Usage
This term often appears in passages related to academic subjects, literature, or reference materials, emphasizing the idea of a thorough yet succinct summary of knowledge. It implies not just a simple collection but a carefully curated set of information, distinguishing it from similar terms like "anthology," which typically refers to a collection of literary works rather than a comprehensive overview of a subject.
Common Confusions
Compendium implies a curated collection of detailed information on a subject, while anthology usually suggests a compilation of literary works without the same emphasis on comprehensive coverage of a specific topic.
Example Sentences
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The book serves as a useful compendium of grammar rules.
Word Parts: How to Remember “compendium”
Break “compendium” into its parts: co- (together, with). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.
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Prefix:
co-together, with (Latin)