precocious

What does “precocious” mean?

adjective.(of a child) having developed certain abilities or proclivities at an earlier age than usual.

SAT Usage

this term often appears in contexts related to childhood development, education, or talent, emphasizing the idea of advanced abilities that stand out from peers. It implies not just early achievement but also a sense of maturity or sophistication that may evoke both admiration and concern, distinguishing it from terms like "gifted," which may not necessarily imply the same level of early development.

Common Confusions

Precocious implies an early development of advanced abilities, while gifted usually suggests a natural talent that may not necessarily manifest at an early age.

Example Sentences

• The precocious child solved advanced math problems with remarkable ease.

• The precocious child began reading the newspaper at age four.

• The precocious child amazed everyone with her ability to solve complex math problems, showing a maturity beyond her years.

Word Parts: How to Remember “precocious”

Break “precocious” into its parts: pre- (before). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.

• Prefix: pre- before (Latin)