discord
Noun
Medium difficulty
What does “discord” mean?
noun.disagreement between people.
SAT Usage
this term is often found in passages discussing social issues, conflicts, or historical events. It emphasizes a deeper level of conflict or strife between groups or individuals, suggesting not just disagreement, but a breakdown in harmony or unity, which differentiates it from milder terms like "disagreement" or "differing opinions."
Common Confusions
Discord implies a breakdown in harmony and deeper conflict, while disagreement usually suggests a milder difference of opinion without the intensity of strife.
Do not choose discord if the context emphasizes harmony or agreement rather than disagreement between people.
Example Sentences
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The argument created discord within the once-peaceful team.
Word Parts: How to Remember “discord”
Break “discord” into its parts: di- (apart, away) + -cord- (heart). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.
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Prefix:
di-apart, away (Latin) -
Root:
-cord-heart (Latin)