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ASVAB · Synonym Recognition

AUSTERE most nearly means:

Correct answer

Severe and strict in manner or appearance; plain and without decoration; simple and unadorned

  1. A Luxurious
  2. B Severe and strict in manner or appearance; plain and without decoration; simple and unadorned
  3. C Generous
  4. D Complicated

Why this is the answer

Austere has two related meanings: (1) APPEARANCE/ENVIRONMENT: Plain, simple, without decoration or luxury — an austere military barracks; an austere office with no personal items; (2) MANNER/PERSONALITY: Severely simple, strict, and self-disciplined — an austere commander who tolerates no excess. Root: Greek 'austeros' = harsh, bitter. Related words: spartan (extremely simple), ascetic (self-denying), stark. Austerity measures in government = reducing spending to bare necessities.
Source: ASVAB WK, Vocabulary — Austere

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