The Word Knowledge section of the ASVAB test is designed to evaluate your ability to understand and use words in context, as well as to recognize their meanings. This section is a critical component of the ASVAB, as it assesses your communication skills, vocabulary, and comprehension abilities. In this article, we will delve into the world of Word Knowledge, providing you with a comprehensive guide, expert tips, and a practice test to help you prepare for the ASVAB.
Understanding the Word Knowledge Section

The Word Knowledge section of the ASVAB consists of 35 questions, which are designed to test your vocabulary, reading comprehension, and ability to understand words in context. The questions are presented in a multiple-choice format, with four possible answer choices. You will be given 11 minutes to complete the section, which means you will have approximately 19 seconds to answer each question. To succeed in this section, it is essential to have a strong foundation in vocabulary, as well as the ability to read and comprehend complex texts.
Word Knowledge Question Types
There are two primary types of questions in the Word Knowledge section: synonym questions and context questions. Synonym questions require you to identify a word that has the same meaning as the given word. Context questions, on the other hand, require you to read a passage and identify the meaning of a word based on its context. To answer these questions correctly, you need to have a strong understanding of word meanings, as well as the ability to analyze complex texts.
Question Type | Description |
---|---|
Synonym Questions | Identify a word with the same meaning as the given word |
Context Questions | Identify the meaning of a word based on its context in a passage |

Word Knowledge Practice Test

To help you prepare for the Word Knowledge section of the ASVAB, we have created a practice test with 10 questions. These questions are designed to simulate the actual test experience and will give you an idea of what to expect on the actual test.
1. What is the meaning of the word “perspicacious”?
- A) Having a strong and unpleasant smell
- B) Having a keen understanding and insight
- C) Having a tendency to talk excessively
- D) Having a lack of energy and enthusiasm
2. Read the following passage and identify the meaning of the word “fastidious”:
“She was a fastidious editor, making sure that every detail was correct before publishing the article.”
- A) Careless and lacking attention to detail
- B) Meticulous and demanding in one’s standards
- C) Quick and efficient in one’s work
- D) Relaxed and laid-back in one’s approach
3. What is the meaning of the word “enervate”?
- A) To weaken or drain of energy
- B) To strengthen or energize
- C) To calm or soothe
- D) To excite or stimulate
4. Read the following passage and identify the meaning of the word “diligent”:
“He was a diligent worker, always striving to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality results.”
- A) Lazy and lacking motivation
- B) Hardworking and conscientious
- C) Careless and prone to mistakes
- D) Quick and efficient, but lacking attention to detail
5. What is the meaning of the word “volatile”?
- A) Stable and unchanging
- B) Unpredictable and prone to sudden changes
- C) Calm and peaceful
- D) Exciting and thrilling
6. Read the following passage and identify the meaning of the word “malleable”:
“The metal was malleable, allowing it to be shaped and molded into various forms.”
- A) Hard and unyielding
- B) Soft and able to be shaped
- C) Fragile and prone to breaking
- D) Heavy and difficult to move
7. What is the meaning of the word “nadir”?
- A) The highest or most superior point
- B) The lowest or most inferior point
- C) A point of equilibrium or balance
- D) A point of transition or change
8. Read the following passage and identify the meaning of the word “perfidious”:
“The company was accused of being perfidious, betraying the trust of its customers and employees.”
- A) Loyal and trustworthy
- B) Disloyal and treacherous
- C) Honest and transparent
- D) Efficient and effective
9. What is the meaning of the word “sagacious”?
- A) Having keen discernment and good judgment
- B) Lacking wisdom and discernment
- C) Being impulsive and reckless
- D) Being cautious and risk-averse
10. Read the following passage and identify the meaning of the word “tedious”:
“The task was tedious, requiring hours of repetitive and mundane work.”
- A) Exciting and engaging
- B) Boring and uninteresting
- C) Challenging and stimulating
- D) Easy and straightforward
Key Points
- The Word Knowledge section of the ASVAB test consists of 35 questions, which are designed to test your vocabulary, reading comprehension, and ability to understand words in context.
- There are two primary types of questions in the Word Knowledge section: synonym questions and context questions.
- To succeed in the Word Knowledge section, it is essential to have a strong foundation in vocabulary, as well as the ability to read and comprehend complex texts.
- Developing a strong vocabulary can be achieved by reading widely, keeping a vocabulary notebook, and practicing with flashcards.
- Learning prefixes, suffixes, and roots can help you decipher unfamiliar words and improve your comprehension.
What is the best way to prepare for the Word Knowledge section of the ASVAB test?
+The best way to prepare for the Word Knowledge section of the ASVAB test is to develop a strong vocabulary, practice reading comprehension, and learn to analyze complex texts. You can achieve this by reading widely, keeping a vocabulary notebook, and practicing with flashcards.
How many questions are on the Word Knowledge section of the ASVAB test?
+The Word Knowledge section of the ASVAB test consists of 35 questions.
What types of questions are on the Word Knowledge section of the ASVAB test?
+The Word Knowledge section of the ASVAB test consists of two primary types of questions: synonym questions and context questions.