Root: contra/counter

2 GRE vocabulary words

About this Root

Core idea: Latin contra means against or opposite. English counter- carries the same force.

How it shows up on the GRE

These words often mark tension: denying, violating, or working opposite to something else. In critical reading, they can signal contrast or rebuttal.

Quick hooks from this list

Contravene — act against (a law or rule).
Contrite — remorseful (spirit “crushed” against wrongdoing).
Countermand — cancel by opposite order.

contravene

offend against the prohibition or order of (a law, treaty, or code of conduct).

contrite

feeling or expressing remorse at the recognition that one has done wrong.