rescind
Verb
Medium difficulty
What does “rescind” mean?
verb.to revoke, cancel, or repeal (a law, order, or agreement).
SAT Usage
the term often appears in contexts involving legal, political, or contractual themes, emphasizing the formal removal of authority or obligation. It implies a significant reversal of decisions or agreements, distinguishing it from words like "modify," which suggests alteration rather than complete cancellation.
Common Confusions
Rescind implies a formal and complete cancellation of an agreement, while amend usually suggests a partial change or improvement to an existing document or law.
Do not choose rescind if the context emphasizes approval or continuation rather than revoking, canceling, or repealing.
Example Sentences
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The board voted to rescind its earlier approval.
Word Parts: How to Remember “rescind”
Break “rescind” into its parts: re- (again, back). Knowing roots like these helps you decode unfamiliar SAT vocabulary.
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Prefix:
re-again, back (Latin)