irreverence

What does “irreverence” mean?

noun.a lack of respect for people or things that are generally taken seriously.

SAT Usage

irreverence often appears in passages that discuss cultural criticism, societal norms, or artistic expression. It emphasizes a deliberate challenge to authority or tradition, suggesting a provocative stance rather than mere disrespect, and can be contrasted with words like "blasphemy," which carries a more serious connotation of offense against religious beliefs.

Common Confusions

Irreverence implies a playful or challenging attitude towards serious subjects, while blasphemy usually suggests a serious offense against sacred beliefs.

Example Sentences

• His irreverence toward tradition shocked some of his elders.

• Her irreverence toward authority got her into trouble.

Word Parts: How to Remember “irreverence”

Break “irreverence” into its parts: ir- (not) + -ver- (truth). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.

• Prefix: ir- not (Latin)
• Root: -ver- truth (Latin)