neglect
Pronunciation: /nɪˈɡlekt/
verb
Definition of neglect
To fail to care for or give proper attention to something
Synonyms for neglect
- ignore
- overlook
- disregard
neglect in a Sentence
- Many cities have neglected their public transport infrastructure for decades.
Why neglect Matters for GRE & SAT
"neglect" is a verb that means "To fail to care for or give proper attention to something" closely related to words like "ignore", "overlook", "disregard". As a word starting with N, it belongs to a cluster of GRE and SAT vocabulary that test-takers often encounter in Verbal Reasoning, Text Completion, and Reading Comprehension sections.
On the GRE, understanding "neglect" helps you distinguish between closely related answer choices in Sentence Equivalence questions. On the SAT, recognizing this word in context strengthens your performance on Craft & Structure and Words in Context questions. Seeing how "neglect" is used in sentences — like the examples above — builds the contextual understanding that standardized tests reward.
Study tip: Start with the definition and part of speech (verb). Then learn its 3 synonyms to build a word network. Finally, practice with spaced repetition to move "neglect" into long-term memory.
How to Remember neglect
One effective way to remember "neglect" (verb) is to group it with similar words you already know: "ignore" and "overlook" and "disregard". When you encounter "neglect" on a test, these synonym connections help you quickly recall its meaning — "To fail to care for or give proper attention to something".
Use flashcard apps with spaced repetition to review "neglect" at increasing intervals until it becomes automatic.
More Vocabulary Words Starting with N
- nadir — the absolute lowest point or worst moment
- naive — showing a lack of experience or judgment
- narrate — To give an account of events or experiences
- nascent — in the process of emerging, being born, or starting to develop
- negate — To nullify; make ineffective
- negate — To make ineffective; to nullify
- negligent — lacking care or attention
- negligent — Failing to take proper care in doing something
- negligible — So small or unimportant as to be not worth considering
- negotiate — To try to reach an agreement through discussion