nocturnal
Adjective
Medium difficulty
What does “nocturnal” mean?
adjective.done, occurring, or active at night.
SAT Usage
the term is often used in contexts related to biology, ecology, or behavior, particularly when discussing animals or phenomena that are active during the night. It emphasizes the adaptations and characteristics that enable survival in nocturnal environments, distinguishing it from terms like "diurnal," which refers to daytime activity.
Common Confusions
Nocturnal implies activity during the night, while diurnal usually suggests activity during the day.
Do not choose nocturnal if the context emphasizes daytime activities or behavior rather than being done, occurring, or active at night.
Example Sentences
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Owls are nocturnal hunters that rely on darkness.