sacrosanct

What does “sacrosanct” mean?

noun.(especially of a principle, place, or routine) regarded as too important or valuable to be interfered with.

SAT Usage

this term often appears in passages discussing ethics, religion, or cultural values, emphasizing the inviolability of certain principles or practices. It suggests a level of reverence and protection that transcends mere importance, distinguishing it from similar words like "sacred," which may not carry the same connotation of being off-limits to change or criticism.

Common Confusions

Sacrosanct implies a principle or practice that is inviolable and beyond criticism, while sacred usually suggests something holy or revered, without the same emphasis on being untouchable or immune to change.

Example Sentences

• The tradition was considered sacrosanct and could not be changed.

Word Parts: How to Remember “sacrosanct”

Break “sacrosanct” into its parts: -sanct- (holy, sacred). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.

• Root: -sanct- holy, sacred (Latin)