How to write a Statement of Purpose

How to Write a Statement of Purpose

If you've decided to apply for graduate studies, almost all universities will require you to write a Statement of Purpose (SoP). This letter, usually 2-3 pages in length, can make or break your application. Regardless of your grade point average, work experience, test scores, or undergraduate mastery of your potential future area of study, your Statement of Purpose is very influential at most institutions when determining your candidacy for admission. Please note that these instructions are more specific to admission into a PhD program.

Steps

1. Start early. Give yourself at least a month to gather the information described below and produce a final version of your Statement of Purpose.
2. Investigate the current research trends of the university to which you are applying. Read faculty publications, current interests, and all the admission requirements (specifically those of your Statement of Purpose).
3. Talk out the details of your life with a friend or trusted acquaintance. Recall small details, anecdotes from childhood, service you might have given at earlier times, the rich palpable details of your life. You will recall items you have forgotten or deemed minor, one of which may add energy and meaning to your Statement of Purpose.
4. Think carefully about what you want to research as a graduate student. Note that this may change during the course of your studies, but you will want to enter grad school with a solid idea of what you want to do and what you can provide to the university.
5. Create a strong opening paragraph of five sentences or less. Briefly explain who you are, where you're from, why you have chosen the particular field to which you're applying, and why the university is among your first choices. Be specific. Don't tell the faculty how wonderful their university is or that you want to study there because it's the best in the state/nation/world. The faculty already knows this and you're just wasting their time.
6. Mention faculty members with whom you could conduct research by name along with their areas of expertise. For example, "I am interested in working with Dr. Margaret Jones on sociolinguistic comparison because..." or "I have seen Dr. Allara's publications on the use of genetic markers in biochemical reactions and would like to investigate..."
7. Tell the university why they should choose you over someone else. Explain what you can contribute to that particular field or specialty. Keep in mind that college faculty will accept you if they believe you can further their reputation. Plan how you will accomplish that task and include it in your Statement.
8. Fill the rest of your essay with more detailed information about your undergraduate education, work experience, and potential research topics.
9. List all the enclosures you will include in your application and give a very brief description of your portfolio.
10. Thank the admissions committee for their time. Chances are they are reviewing hundreds of applications along with yours.
11. Provide your contact information.
12. Go back and revise, edit, revamp, etc. Have someone else edit it. You'll probably cut out a lot of stuff. Then edit some more. Remember to include everything above while aiming for 2-3 pages maximum. This is where being very concise and to the point is important. After the letter is perfect, edit some more.
13. Print your letter, sign it, and include it as the first item of your application portfolio (although be aware that some schools will want you to send it electronically).


Tips

* Remember that your first paragraph should be no longer than four or five sentences, but it should give a summary of the entire Statement of Purpose. Many graduate committees will read your first paragraph to decide if the rest of your application is worth reading as well.
* Keep it clear and concise, yet detailed and specific when it comes to faculty and areas of potential research.
* Don't tell the admissions committee how amazing you are. Avoid empty phrases like "I'm talented", "I'm very intelligent," "I'm a great writer/engineer/artist" or "I had the highest GPA in my department as an undergrad." Show them through your professional Statement of Purpose and application portfolio and let them decide if you are amazing enough to attend their institution.
* Should you attempt to explain how "amazing" you are, make sure that you justify it. Yet, you must remain humble. For example: "I believe that I have the confidence in myself to strive for the furthest goal."
* Use short anecdotes to highlight your strengths. After committee members have read a few dozen statements, they all start looking alike; some specific and interesting details can help a candidate to stick out. Of course, it helps if these anecdotes are related to the broad point you're making in your statement.
* Focus on your previous and future research experiences. Many students make the mistake of summarizing their CVs. Committees that bother to read your application know already that you're a good student; they now want to see whether you'll make the transition to a more unstructured and self-directed form of learning in graduate school. They look for evidence of this by seeing how you describe your past research experiences and your future plans. The key is not particularly the topic you propose--the committee will expect this to change after you get some more experience. Instead, they will look to see whether you have a realistic and well-informed sense of what a graduate student would expect to do in a degree.
* Remember that a Statement of Purpose is only one, albeit extremely important, part of your graduate school admission portfolio. Carefully examine all the requirements on the university's admissions webpage before you submit an application.
* Apply to as many schools as you can afford to pay their application fees. Four distinct Statements of Purposes for four different universities should be your minimum.

Warnings

* Avoid sending the exact same Statement of Purpose to all the universities to which you're applying. The admissions committee will easily spot a cookie-cutter essay and more than likely reject you. Admissions committees also notice whether or not you include specific references to people, labs, etc., within their departments.
* Don't be overly specific about your research goals if you are actually somewhat flexible. If there are no faculty in a particular department working in your described area who are taking students in a given year, you might be rejected even though you are considered "above bar". At the same time, there's no point pretending to be interested in a broader range of topics than you are.
* Don't be too technical, i.e., using words or jargon-style expressions that are unfamiliar to you. If you use them incorrectly, chances are you'll end up sounding like an idiot.
* Don't use superfluous descriptions or poetic phrases unless you're applying to study arts like creative writing.
* Be prepared for rejection. Graduate school is a competitive world and even the best undergrad students get rejected from somewhere.

Analogies

GARBLED:COMPREHEND::obscured:recognize

HEAT:CALORIMETER::distance:odometer

ALLY:WAR::teammate:game

EAVESDROP:CONVERSATION::trespass:property

PALPABLE:TOUCH::pliable:mold

SUBMERGE:WATER::inter:earth

RUTHLESS:MERCY::insipid:flavor

MINION:DEPENDENT::groveler:petitioner

PANEGYRIC:PRAISE::valediction:farewell

SNAKE:LEG::horse:wings

BOX:FIGHT::debate:argue

ITINERARY:TRIP::syllabus:course

FREQUENCY:PITCH::wavelength:color

RATIOCINATION:THINKING::articulation:talking

NARCISSISM:LOVE::guilt:blame

PLACEBO:PAINKILLER::backdrop:vista

CAMOUFLAGE:DECEPTION::flattery:ingratiating

ADULTERATE:PURITY::enervate:vigor

SKETCH:PAINTING::outline:essay

GEAR:TOOTH::screw:thread

EXECUTOR:WILL::soldier:order

PRODIGALITY:SPENDING::gluttony:eating

BASTE:DRYNESS::caulk:moistness

DROSS:METAL::chaff:grain

GUST:WIND::flare:light

DUCTILITY:MALLEABLE::toxicity:poisonous

RAIL:VEHEMENCE::entreat:urgency

SCYTHE:REAPER::axe:woodcutter

DISCOMBOBULATED:ORDER::erratic:consistency

FERVOR:ZEALOT::doubt:skeptic

COLTISH:DISCIPLINE::loutish:grace

AWL:PIERCE::pestle:mash

COMPLIMENT:FLATTERY::deference:subservience

TAXONOMIST:CLASSIFY::carpenter:build

UPBRAID:DISAPPROVAL::lament:grief

ANATHEMA:CURSE::theocracy:state

GLUE:SEAL::manure:fertilize

FICKLE:CONSTANCY::naive:sophistication

BOW:VIOLIN::stick:drum

INEXPERIENCE:NEOPHYTE::irresponsibility:wastrel

WOOD:SAWDUST::metal:filings

SOPHISM:REASONING::counterfeit:money

APOSTACY:FAITH::recantation:heresy

MOLECULE:ATOMS::tissue:cells

ARRHYTHMIC:REGULARITY::apathetic:concern

OBJECTIVITY:PARTISAN::temperance:reprobate

LIMP:WALK::stutter:talk

CONUNDRUM:SOLVE::tangle:unravel

AGENDA:MINUTES::itinerary:log

RAVISHING:ATTRACTIVE::perspicacious:discerning

NIL:QUANTITY::vacuum:matter

FULMINATE:CRITICIZE::adulate:flatter

EPILOGUE:NOVEL::coda:symphony

PIECE:JIGSAW PUZZLE::tile:mosaic

DIAMETER:CIRCLE::diagonal:rectangle

MANDATORY:COMPLY::forbidden:abstain

EXEMPLARY:CRITICIZED::erratic:predicted

CREDULITY:DUPE::discrimination:connoisseur

CALLIGRAPHY:SCRIBBLE::sonnet:doggerel

RECOMMEND:LAUD::sanction:foster

BALEFUL:MENACE::solicitous:concern

GALLEY:SHIP::kitchen:house

LETHARGIC:STIMULATE::skeptical:convince

SHRINE:PILGRIM::peak:climber

SPLINT:MOBILITY::lubricant:friction

RIG:CONTEST::gerrymander:district

CREEK:RIVER::pebble:rock

SEMINARY:THEOLOGIAN::conservatory:artist

RIVAL:COMPETITION::sycophant:flattery

COURAGEOUS:BRAVADO::complimentary:fulsomeness

ANESTHETIC:NUMBNESS::intoxicant:drunkenness

DRUMMER:MUSICIAN::tragedian:actor

ARCHIEVE:MANUSCRIPT::arsenal:weapon

RAMPART:INVASION::levee:flood

RETICENT:TALK::abstemious:gorge

MENTOR:GUIDACE::oracle:prophecy

LIGNEOUS:WOOD::osseous:bone

IRREVOCABLE:REPEAL::ineluctable:avoid

LITERATE:ERUDITE::agitated:frenetic

TUITION:INSTRUCTION::fare:transportation

ARBITRATOR:DISPUTANTS::judge:litigants

ARBORETUM:TREES::aviary:birds

WINNOW:WHEAT::refine:oil

IDYLL:CAREFREE::ordeal:difficult

RELAPSE:CONVALESCENCE::recidivism:rehabilitation

ANACHRONISM:CHRONOLOGY::fallacy:logic

DEFAULT:PAY::yield:resist

FIRM:INTRANSIGENT::concerned:obsessed

CATCH:FISH::harvest:grain

CURATORS:PAINTINGS::librarians:books

METEOROLOGY:WEATHER::pathology:disease

PUN:JOKE::termite:insect

PLAIN:AUSTERE::clean:sterile

ASTROLABE:NAUTICAL::colander:culinary

ALACRITY:APATHETIC::temerity:timid

FLOUT:DISREGARD::taunt:challenge

LIQUID:VALVE::electric current:switch

PRIMP:VAIN::gloat:smug

GOBBLE:EAT::guzzle:drink

SHIPSHAPE:DISARRAY::squalid:cleanliness

HOVER:PLUNGE::crouch:spring

SAGE:WISDOM::philanthropist:benevolence

ERODE:DIMINISH::accrete:enlarge

MANIA:ENTHUSIASM::doting:fondness

OBDURATE:BUDGE::lachrymose:cheer

CHOIR:SINGER::cast:actor

GLARING:BRIGHT::deafing:loud

MAVERICK:CONFORMITY::extrovert:reserve

SLITHER:SNAKE::waddle:duck

COUNTENANCE:TOLERATION::demur:objection

PROCTOR:SUPERVISE::prodigal:squander

REDOLENT:SMELL::piquant:taste

TORQUE:ROTATION::tension:elongation

SUBSIDY:SUPPORT::debt:obligation

WATER:SWIM::snow:ski

TILE:MOSAIC::stitch:sampler

SCHOOL:FISH::flock:birds

CASTIGATION:DISAPPROVE::blasphemy:irreverence

ACCELERATE:SPEED::prolong:duration

COMPLAIN:CARP::drink:guzzle

FILIGREE:WIRE::lace:thread

SKIRMISH:INSIGNIFICANCE::duel:formality

STUDY:LEARN::search:find

CORRAL:HORSE::coop:chickens

LULLABY:SONG::diatribe:discourse

DIE:SHAPING::drill:boring

MERCENARY:MONEY::vindictive:revenge

AUTHORITATIVENESS:PUNDITS::allegiance:partisans

STRUT:WING::buttress:wall

FAWN:IMPERVIOUSNESS::equivocate:directness

TROUBLED:DISTRAUGHT::covetous:rapacious

TABLECLOTH:TABLE::sheet:mattress

CANVAS:PAINTER::marble:sculptor

MANSION:RESIDENCE::limousine:automobile

DOOR:ROOM::hatch:hold

CHOREOGRAPHY:DANCE::plot:story

EVAPORATE:VAPOR::petrify:stone

ASSUAGE:SORROW::dampen:ardor

NUMB:INSENSIBLE::burnish:lustrous

AUDACIOUS:TREPIDATION::laconic:volubility

SCALPEL:SURGEON::telescope:astronomer

APPLE:FRUIT::wood:fabric

ENVELOPE:LETTER::crate:produce

PANEGYRIC:EULOGIZE::lampoon:satirize

OVERDOSE:PRESCRIPTION::indiscretion:convention

FRESCO:WALL::parquetry:floor

HAMMER:ANVIL::pestle:mortar

RELEVANT:CRUCIAL::perceptible:obvious

PERFUNCTORILY:INSPIRATION::insolently:veneration

ADULT:CHILD::cat:kitten

CLOT:DISSOLVED::crowd:dispersed

GLOSSARY:TEXT::legend:map

FERVOR:ZEALOT::improvidence:spend thrift

SHARD:POTTERY::fragment:bone

FERTILIZE:GROW::immunize:resist

ATTENTIVE:OFFICIOUS::refined:snobbish

EXORBITANT:MODERATION::perfidious:loyalty

BLANDISHMENT:COAX::medal:honor

APPLE:SKIN::melon:rind

FIRE:INFERNO::storm::hurricane

BODYGUARD:PERSON::soldier:country

LOPE:RUN::drawl:speak

HOAX:DECEIVE::filibuster:delay

ALCOVE:RECESS::dome:roof

BALLAST:INSTABILITY::purchase:slippage

MUFFLE:SOUND::assuage:grief

MITIGATE:SEVERE::qualify:general

BABBLE:TALK::scribble:write

SYLLABUS:COURSE::agenda:meeting

VARNISH:WOOD::wax:linoleum

PITCH:SOUND::color:light

DISCOMFITED:BLUSH::contemptuous:sneer

INVINCIBLE:SUBDUE::impervious:damaged

STRIATED:GROOVE::braided:strand

DOGGEREL:VERSE::burlesque:play

DROLL:LAUGH::grisly:flinch

WEB:SPIDER::net:bird

FOUR-POSTER:BED::convertible:automobile

BONE:BODY::girder:skyscraper

SCOOP:CONCAVE::spatula:flat

SYMBOLS:REBUS::note:score

GUSH:EFFUSIVE::rage:irate

PERORATION:SPEECH::coda:sonata

INTERREGNUM:GOVERNMENT::hibernation:activity

EMBROIDER:CLOTH::chase:metal

COMA:UNCONSCIOUSNESS::delirium:confusion

TOURNIQUET:BLOOD::dam:river

FOUNDATION:HOUSE::pedestal:statue

PHILATELIST:STAMPS::numismatist:coins

INSECT:BUTTERFLY::philosophy:metaphysics

PERNICIOUS:INJURE::disingenuous:mislead

FLAG:VIGOR::waver:resolution

EMBARRASS:MORTIFY::indulge:mollycoddle

DISTILL:PURITY::leaven:volume

SKELETON:ANIMAL::framing:building

OUTSKIRTS:TOWN::margin:page

AMORPHOUSNESS:DEFINITION::lassitude:energy

COLLUSION:CONSPIRATORS::cooperation:partners

DIVERT:SHUNT::retard:brake

EQUIVOCATE:COMMITMENT::procrastinate:action

ARMADA:VEHICLES::fusillade:projectiles

LACONIC:SPEECH::austere:design

GROW:BURGEON::beat:palpitate

GADGETS:TOOLS::trinkets:jewelry

LISTEN:RECORDING::view:photograph

CENSORSHIP:INFORMATION::sanitation:disease

DELUGE:DROPLET::landslide:pebble

SPEAK:RETICENT::spend:parsimonious

PATRIOTIC:CHAUVINISTIC::receptive:gullible

BOUQUET:FLOWERS::woodpile:logs

ENDEMIC:REGION::inborn:individual

PECCADILLO:SIN::admonishment:castigation

NURTURE:CHILD::cultivate:crop

SAW:CARPENTER::scissors:tailor

EPITAPH:TOMBSTONE::motto:shield

SIMPER:SMILE::babble:talk

EGG:CHICKEN::roe:salmon

GLIMMER:DAZZLE::murmur:resound

RESCIND:LAW::withdraw:candidacy

ENTANGLE:INVOLVE::grill:question

ALCHEMY:SCIENCE::nostrum:remedy

ANXIOUS:REASSURANCE::perplexed:clarification

STANZA:POEM::act:opera

COIN:DENOMINATION::officer:rank

EMBELLISH:AUSTERE::adulterate:pure

PORTFOLIO:SECURITIES::dossier:reports

EXHORT:SUGGEST::goad:direct

CLAY:PORCELAIN::flax:linen

SERMON:HOMILETICS::argument:logic

MATRIX:NUMBERS::crystal:atoms

REFLECTION:LIGHT::echo:sound

CARVE:TURKEY::slice:cake

GEM:TURQUOISE::flower:violet

PARQUET:WOOD::mosaic:glass

IMPLACABLE:APPEASE::indomitable:subdue

HOMOGENIZE:UNIFORM::putrefaction:rotten

SELFLESSNESS:ALTRUIST::expertise:connoisseur

AESTHETICS:BEAUTY::epistemology:knowledge

CORNUCOPIA:ABUNDANCE::mace:authority

OATH:PROMISE::contract:agreement

NEEDLE:KNIT:loom:weave

MAIL:MAILBOX::laundry:hamper

ASTRINGENT:PUCKER::spark:ignition

HEMORRHAGE:BLEEDING::vertigo:dizziness

INDULGE:ASCETIC::restrain:libertine

LURK:WAIT::abscond:depart

INTERESTED:AGOG::careful:meticulous

DOGMA:ICONOCLAST::convention:maverick

PEDIATRICS:CHILDREN::dermatology:skin

CREASE:FOLDING::hole:perforating

DAGGER:SCABBARD::pistol:holster

SUBPOENA:WITNESS::conscript:soldier

LUBRICATE:ABRASION::seal:leakage

ASTROLOGY:ASTRONOMY::alchemy:chemistry

MALAPROPISM:VERBAL::gaffe:social

PLUCK:QUIT::pride:grovel

PARENTHESIS:EXPLANATION::ellipsis:omission

CENSUS:POPULATION::inventory:merchandise

INEVITABLE:CHANCE::absolute:variability

DART:MISSILE::skiff:boat

DECIBEL:SOUND::lumen:light

STICKLER:APPROXIMATION::purist:adulteration

SYNONYMOUS:MEANING::interchangeable:function

INSIPID:INVENTION::prosaic:imagination

STREAM:EDDY::trend:anomaly

PIRATE:TAKE::forge:copy

DEPORT:NATION::expel:school

VESSEL:BLOOD::pipeline:gas

ITINERARY:TRIP::agenda:meeting

TACT:OFFENSIVE::money:poor

EPIDERMIS:MAMMAL::bark:conifer

ANOMALY:paradigmatic::blemish:flawless

LIONIZE:ADMIRE::vituperate:despise

TERSENESS:SUPERFLUOUS::spontaneity:studied

SUBMISSION:OBEISANCE::affection:embrace

CLIENTELE:CUSTOMERS::faculty:teachers

ARTICULATE:SPEECH::graceful:movement

COLOSSUS:FIGURINE::boulder:pebble

LEAF:OAK::needle:pine

LATENCY:RESPONSE::incubation:disease

RETRACT:STATEMENT::repeal:legislation

JUGGERNAUT:CRUSH::quisling:betray

FRUGAL:PENURIOUS::compliant:obsequious

DEPART:ABSCOND::store:secrete

SOLDIER:ARMY::element:compound

SLUR:SPEECH::smudge:writing

LOCOMOTIVE:FLATCAR::tugboat:barge

TRICKLE:GUSH::warm:sear

CHARADE:WORD::mime:story

EPAULET:SHOULDER::ring:finger

VERNACULAR:PLACE::jargon:profession

HEAT:CALORIES::liquid:gallons

MARTIAL:MILITARY::runic:mysterious

DERMATOLOGIST:SKIN::podiatrist:feet

UNDERSTUDY:STAR::deputy:sheriff

SUSPICIOUS:PARANOID::admiring:idolatrous

GREENHOUSE:PLANT::incubator:infant

ANACHRONISTIC:TIME::discordant:sound

RIVER:GORGE::wind:dune

STIPPLE:DOT::striate:band

GOURMAND:APPETITE::skinflint:thrift

ROYALTY:PAYMENT::subpoena:writ

DRAWBRIDGE:CASTLE::gangway:ship

INSULIN:PANCREAS::bile:liver

TALON:EAGLE::claw:panther

ARTICULATE:CLEARLY::shout:loudly

NUANCE:DISTINCTION::hint:suggestion

URBANE:GAUCHERIE::guileless:chicanery

VOTING:ROLLCALL::termination:cloture

DEMUR:QUALMS::waver:irresoluteness

MISER:THRIFT::chauvinist:patriotism

FORGERY:COUNTERFEIT::embezzlement:fraud

NICOTINE:TOBACCO::caffeine:coffee

CANDLE:WAX::tire:rubber

BIT:DRILL::blade:razor

MISJUDGE:ASSESS::misconstrue:interpret

COMPLIANT:SERVILE::trusting:gullible

NOMINAL:FIGUREHEAD::absolute:autocrat

ASTRINGENT:CONTRACTION::anesthetic:insensibility

PHILOSOPHER:COGITATE::iconoclast:attack

THERMOMETER:TEMPERATURE::compass:direction

FOOLPROOF:FAIL::airtight:leak

SUFFOCATE:OXYGEN::starve:nutrients

ORCHESTRA:MUSIC::troupe:drama

BIRD:SNARE::fish:seine

RESOLUTENESS:WILL::zeal:conviction

MILLER:GRAIN::tanner:hide

DIDACTIC:INSTRUCT::comic:amuse

GARRULOUS:TALKATIVE::cloying:sweet

TORNADO:AIR::whirlpool:water

SINGER:CHOIR::flower:bouquet

PIGMENT:COLOR::spice:flavor

LABYRINTH:TORTUOUS::ornament:decorative

PRATE:SPEAK::saunter:walk

PERTURB:SERENITY::reassure:doubt

FURTIVE:STEALTH::whimsical:caprice

TENDER:ACCEPTANCE::exhibit:inspection

PLUTOCRACY:WEALTH::geroncracy:age

HAMMER:CARPENTER::knife:butcher

EMBRACE:AFFECTION::frown:displeasure

PLUMMET:FAIL::swerve:turn

GRAZING:FORAGERS::stalking:hunter

TEXT:EXTEMPORIZE::score:improvise

PERTINENT:RELEVANCE::redundant:superfluity

ASSERT:BELABOR::tend:fuss

TRANSGRESSION:MORALITY::presumption:propriety

BLOWHARD:BOASTFUL::toady:obsequious

SHOULDER:ROADWAY::margin:page

TADPOLE:FROG::caterpillar:butterfly

CIRCUMFERENCE:CIRCLE::perimeter:rectangle

HEDONIST:PLEASURE::recluse:privacy

PREEN:SELF-SATISFACTION::fume:anger

DIGRESSIVE:STATEMENT::circuitous:route

CHICANERY:CLEVER::tactlessness:truthful

ANIMAL:CAT::furniture:chair

CURTAIN:STAGE::veil:face

INSOMNIA:SLEEP::dyslexia:read

JEER:DERISION::reprimand:censure

HUMILITY:SUPPLICANT::resistance:adversary

INTEREST:INVEIGLE::plan:scheme

BARTER:COMMODITIES::correspond:letters

PARRY:QUESTION::shirk:duty

DISGUISE:IDENTIFICATION::camouflage:detection

BIRD:FEATHERS::fish:scales

ELBOW:JOINT::heart:organ

ENDOW:INCOME::endorse:approval

BOMBAST:POMPOUS::tirade:critical

CARET:INSERTION::comma:pause

OPAQUE:LIGHT::nonporous:liquid

FEARLESS:DAUNT::impassive:perturb

QUERULOUS:COMPLAIN::prodigal:spend

REFEREE:FIELD::judge:courtroom

BLUSH:EMBARRASSMENT::smile:pleasure

TANGO:DANCE::elegy:poem

CELL:MEMBRANE::seed:hull

HYMN:PRAISE::dirge:grief

EMOLLIENT:SOOTHE::dynamo:generate

MISANTHROPE:PEOPLE::xenophobe:strangers

IMPLACABLE:COMPROMISE::honest:swindle

MILK:EXTRACT::exploit:utilize

PILOT:SHIP::conductor:orchestra

TOPSOIL:ERODE::paint:peel

SCREEN:MOVIE::stage:play

VOLCANO::LAVA::geyser:water

COGENT:CONVINCE::repugnant:repel

CHARY:CAUTION::imperturbable:composure

USURY:INTEREST::gouging:price

EPITHET:DISPARAGE::alias:mislead

OFFENSE:PECCADILLO::quarrel:tiff

MULTIPLY:DIVIDE::enter:leave

RECLUSE:WITHDRAWN::bigot:biased

CURATOR:ART::archivist:documents

ABACUS:CALCULATE::sextant:navigate

STRAY:GROUP::digress:subject

ESCAPE:CAPTURE::dodge:blow

LEVEE:RIVER::cordon:crowd

MERCURIAL:MOOD::fickle:affection

ENUNCIATE:WORDS::limn:lines

BUTTER:MARGARINE::sugar:saccharin

MUTED:COLOR::muffled:sound

MUFFLER:NECK::mitten:hand

PLANT:SOIL::organism:medium

POTTERY:SHARD::bread:crumb

PURIFICATION:DROSS:desalinization:salt

DISGUISE:RECOGNITION::padding:damage

GUST:WIND::cloudburst:rainfall

DISABUSE:ERROR::rehabilitate:addiction

ATHLETE:TROPHY::soldier:medal

ARTICULATE:UNCLEAR::elaborate:sketchy

INVENTORY:STOCK::census:population

LOGIC:REASONING::ethics:behavior

LUMBER:GRACE::waver:resolution

MIMICRY:CAMOUFLAGE::mutation:variation

APPREHENSION:TERROR::affection:adoration

CAUSTIC:EATAWAY::desiccant:dry

MALINGERER:DUTY::recluse:humanity

TEACHER:CERTIFICATION::driver:license

FOOD:NOURISH::antibodies:protect

HACK:CARVE::gouge:engrave

DETOXIFY:POISON::dehydrate:water

SUPERIMPOSE:ABOVE::insert:between

TAMPER:ADJUST::misrepresent:communicate

METAPHOR:LITERAL::melody:spoken

COURAGE:RASHNESS::generosity:prodigality

PRESCIENCE:FUTURE::erudition:esoteric

DENTURE:TEETH::toupee:hair

PROFESSIONAL:ROOKIE::soldier:recruit

SCRIPT:PLAY::score:symphony

BUOYANT:SINK::insoluble:dissolve

CRAWL:PROCEED::dwindle:decrease

ELEGY:SORROW::eulogy:admiration

FRIEZE:ORNAMENT::pillar:support

DECELERATE:SPEED::enervate:vitality

DESPOTIC:TYRANNY::generous:liberality

RUST:CORROSION::dew:condensation

ANTENNA:SIGNAL::net:fish

ENCLOSE:PARENTHESES::separate:comma

WAG:HUMOROUS::dolt:stupid

CLAIM:LEGITIMATED::hypothesis:confirmed

FIRM:IRONCLAD::smart:brilliant

FOIL:METAL::veneer:wood

LEAVE:ABSCOND::take:steal

QUAFF:SIP::stride:mince

MISER:STINGY::loner:solitary

AQUEDUCT:WATER::artery:blood

ENZYME:CATALYZE::bacterium:microbe

LIEN:CLAIM::subpoena:command

VERBOSITY:WORDS::floridness:embellishments

QUIXOTIC:IDEALISTIC::touchy:sensitive

PREEMPT:PRECEDENCE::acquire:possession

MALINGER:AIL::flatter:appreciate

ARBOREAL:TREES::sidereal:stars

ORCHESTRA:INSTRUMENTAL::choir:vocal

TROPHY:CONTESTANT::honors:student

LISTENER:EAVESDROPPER::observer:spy

FIDGET:NERVOUSNESS::cring:dread

DORMANT:INACTIVITY::malleable:plasticity

WAFT:PLUMMET::meander:dash

PRUDISH:PROPRIETY::finicky:quality

POSEUR:SINCERITY::recluse:gregariousness

MORALISTIC:PRINCIPLED::pedantic:learned

JUDGE:GAVEL::referee:whistle

ORGAN:KIDNEY::bone:rib

PURIFY:IMPERFECTION::verify:doubtfulness

SOOT:COMBUSTION::sawdust:woodcutting

CENTRIFUGE:SEPARATE::colander:drain

MOCK:IMITATE::taunt:challenge

MALADROIT:SKILL::glib:profundity

EQUIVOCATION:AMBIGUOUS::platitude:banal

VOLATILE:TEMPER::ready:wit

SURGEON:DEXTERITY::acrobat:agility

PRUNE:HEDGE::trim:hair

PHOTOGRAPH:LIGHT::recording:sound

ANTIBIOTIC:INFECTION::coagulant:bleeding

EULOGY:PRAISE::elegy:lament

DAMP:VIBRATION::stanch:flow

ABRADED:FRICTION::vaporized:heat

QUARRY:STONE::fell:timber

CREDULOUS:DUPE::insensitive:boor

MICROSCOPE:SMALL::telescope:distant

EXHIBITION:PAINTING::concert:symphony

STERILIZATION:MICROORGANISMS::deforestation:trees

RUFFLE:SHIRT::molding:cabinet

EMIGRATE:EXILE::enlist:conscript

BARRAGE:EXPLOSIVES::deluge:rain

WARY:GULLED::vigilant:ambushed

WILLFULNESS:HEADSTRONG::subservience:fawning

UNTENABLE:DEFENDED::invulnerable:injured

OSTRICH:BIRD::tiger:cat

WARDROBE:CLOTHES::bookcase:books

PRACTICING:EXPERTISE::exercising:strength

ARTERY:PLAQUE::channel:sill

ANECDOTE:STORY::skit:play

SUPPLANT:REPLACE::snatch:take

ALLERGY:REACTION::lancet:instrument

APHORISTIC:TERSE::hyperbolic:exaggerate

ZEALOUS:ENTHUSIASTIC::idolatrous:devoted

SEDATIVE:DROWSINESS::anesthetic:numbness

LAWYER:COURTROOM::gladiator:arena

CURIOSITY:KNOW::wanderlust:travel

FRUGAL:MISERLY::confident:arrogant

ANTIDOTE:POISON::tonic:lethargy

STYGIAN:DARK::abysmal:low

WORSHIP:SACRIFICE::prediction:augury

EVANESCENT:DISAPPEAR::pliant:yield

UPBRAID:REPROACH::dote:like

FRAGILE:BREAK::flammable:burn

MUTTER:INDISTINCT::drone:monotonous

FAULTFINDER:CRITICIZE::arbitrator:mediate

PEST:IRKSOME::expert:proficient

PROLOGUE:NOVEL::preamble:statute

EXPAND:VOLUME::proliferate:number

CONTIGUOUS:ABUT::simultaneous:coincide

SUITCASE:LUGGAGE::hat:millinery

PROHIBITIVE:PURCHASE::peremptory:dispute

INFLATE:BURST::pull:tear

FLIP:RESPECT::nonchalant:concern

REQUEST:COMMAND::propose:stipulate

BOUNDLESS:LIMIT::impeccable:flaw

MOLT:BIRD::slough:snake

RENOUNCE:PLEDGE::rescind:order

COWARD:CRAVE::dupe:gullible

ENFRANCHISE:VOTE::illuminate:see

STRUT:WING::guy:pylon

BRUSH:PAINTING::chisel:sculpture

DECIBEL:SOUND::volt:electricity

DIPLOMAT:TACT::inventor:ingenuity

ATTORNEY:DISBAR::student:expel

DIRGE:MUSIC::elegy:poetry

LOG:SHIP::diary:person

APOLOGIZE:CONTRITE::compliment:impressed

EUPHEMISM:OFFENSE::prevarication:truth

SENSITIZATION:ALLERGIC::habituation:inured

FILING:METAL::shaving:wood

HOST:PARASITE::medium:bacterium

SOLILOQUY:PLAY::aria:opera

MEETING:MINUTES::sale:deed

CONTRACT:IMPLODE::descend:plummet

APPRISE:INFORMATION::admonish:warning

MINUTIAE:DETAILS::quibbles:objections

FRENETIC:MOVEMENT::fanatical:belief

VENOM:TOXIN::milk:nutrient

EXERCISE:STRONG::read:knowledgeable

COWARD:BRAVE::philanthropist:selfish

CREDITS:MOVIE::byline:article

COMPENDIUM:SUMMARY:anthology:collection

COHABIT:RESIDE::conspire:plot

CACOPHONY:SOUND::glare:light

STRATAGEM:DECEIVE::concession:placate

SPECIOUS:GENUINENESS:illusory:reality

DECLAMATION:GRANDILOQUENCE::diatribe:abuse

FLAG:COUNTRY::trademark:company

IRON:METAL::granite:rock

STENCIL:LETTERING::pattern:sewing

SWILL:SIP::gobble:nibble

GLADE:FOREST::oasis:desert

EXULT:SATISFACTION::crave:longing

INDUSTRIOUSNESS:ACTIVITY::fastidiousness:selectivity

TRUCULENCE:GENTLENESS::unregenerate:remorse

STRIDENCY:SOUND::garishness:appearance

BALLAST:STABILITY::girder:support

SMUGGLER:TARIFF::stowaway:fare

LIMBER:FLEXIBILITY::spindly:frailty

FOIBLE:FLAW::quibble:objection

EXTRAVAGANCE:EXPENDITURE::loquaciousness:talk

SEQUESTER:SECLUSION::endanger:jeopardy

OBSEQUIOUS:FAWN::compliant:yield

ELLIPSIS:WORD::apostrophe:letter

TACITURN:CHATTER::insufferable:tolerate

ABSORB:SPONGE::seal:caulk

DALLY:TIME::squander:money

KNIT:YARN::plait:hair

DECIBEL:LOUDNESS::light-year:distance

EMBEZZLE:FUNDS::usurp:power

NEOPHYTE:EXPERIENCE::boor:sensitivity

REFINE:PURIFICATION::attenuate:rarefaction

MELODRAMA:SUBTLETY::chimera:authenticity

UNTENABLE:DEFENDED::inevitable:avoided

PLEASURE:ECSTASY::surprise:astonishment

LIMERICK:POEM::lampoon:satire

SOUND:AIR::electricity:copper

INDELIBILITY:ERASURE::impermeability:passage

EXPIATE:GUILT::correct:error

INFILTRATE:ENTER::insinuate:say

OVERTURE:OPERA::preamble:statute

PUNGENT:ODOR::caustic:comment

ATTACK:VANQUISHED::goad:provoked

FEAR:COWER::anger:rant

BACTERIA:DECOMPOSITION::yeast:fermentation

PALATE:MOUTH::ceiling:room

SLAKE:THIRST::satiate:hunger

FOIBLE:FAULT::quibble:objection

IMPORTUNE:REQUEST::pry:inquiry

MILL:GRAIN::forger:metal

DAGUERREOTYPE:PHTOGRAPH::musket:firearm

INDISTINGUISHABLE:CONFOUND::equivalent:interchange

SCRIBBLE:WRITE::mumble:talk

DETOXIFICATION:POISON::neutralization:acid

GRAVEL:PEBBLE::crowd:person

STOCKADE:ENCLOSURE::pillar:support

SEDATIVE:PACIFY::antiseptic:sterilize

AUTHORITATIVE:ACCEPTANCE::conspicuous:attention

ALACRITY:PROMPT::acumen:shrewd

UNDERSCORE:EMPHASIS::log:record

PREEMINENCE:IMPORTANCE::preponderance:weight

SLIPPERY:ELUDE::alluring:entice

RAINCOAT:RAIN::insurance:loss

DECIPHER:HIEROGLYPH::break:code

FROND:FERN::needle:pine

PILLORY:RIDICULE::guillotine:execute

DITTY:ORATORIO::anecdote:novel

OLFACTION:ODOR::gustation:flavor

HUBRIS:PRIDE::flattery:praise

FRIEZE:BUILDING::illumination:manuscript

RIPEN:MATURITY::harden:solidity

CROWD:PEOPLE::school:fish

ENUNCIATE:MUMBLING::clarify:confusing

LAW:JUDGEMENT::information:decision

MACABRE:SHUDER::hilarious:laugh

IMPRESARIO:ENTERTAINMENT::broker:trade

MOTIVE:DEED::double:question

DIARY:BIOGRAPHER::scripture:theologian

CORONA:SUN::atmosphere:planet

CHAFF:WHEAT::shell:pecan

ARRAY:NUMBERS::formation:soldiers

MASK:FACE::pseudonym:name

INCORRIGIBLE:REFORMED::inscrutable:understood

FILIBUSTER:LEGISLATION::blockade:commerce

FROND:LEAF::boulder:rock

TINT:SUFFUSE::amble:wander

MAGAZINE:PERIODICAL::mystery:fiction

FRANK:SECRETIVENESS::honest:theft

SPLICE:ROPE::weld:metal

FANATIC:DEVOTED::prude:proper

CONFLUENCE:STREAMS::junction:roads

SWAGGER:BRAVADO::caress:affection

INDECOROUS:PROPRIETY::boorish:sensitivity

CAPRICIOUS:WHIM::objective:fact

SNOW:PRECIPITATION::hurricane:cyclone

RECALCITRANT:AUTHORITY::implacable:conciliation

INKLING:INDICATION::lapse:error

DISPERSE:RECONVENE::dismiss:reinstate

AUTOBIOGRAPHY:REMINISCE::eulogy:praise

BACTERIUM:COLONY::citizen:nation

LARDER:FOOD::armory:munitions

TONIC:STIMULATE::analgesic:deaden

ILLUSION:PRECEPTION::cunning:truth

AMULET:EVIL::helmet:injury

CIRCUMSPECT:PRUDENCY::urbane:polish

TACITURN:CHATTER::magnanimous:begrudge

SMALL:MINUSCULE::moist:saturated

MOLT:FEATHERS::shed:hair

YOKEL:SOPHISTICATION::coward:courage

POROUS:LIQUID::transparent:light

IRK:ENRAGE::suggest:urge

COUNTERMAND:ORDER::revoke:license

FETID:SMELL::ugly:appearance

VOLATILE:EVAPORATE::soluble:dissolve

CRESCENDO:SOUND::acceleration:tempo

SYMPHONY:CONDUCTOR::film:director

REMAINDER:SUBTRACTION::residue:evaporation

SMUGGLER:IMPORT::embezzler:appropriate

REPRIEVE:PUNISHMENT::moratorium:activity

SNUB;DISDAIN::double-cross:disloyalty

SYNOPSIS:CONDESNSED::appendix:supplementary

FRIABLE:CRUMBLE::malleable:alter

INTRACTABLE:MANAGE::phlegmatic:provoke

STRIDENCY:SOUND::garishness:appearance

ILLUMINATE:DARKNESS::educate:ignorance

INSTRUMENTALIST:ORCHESTRA::actor:troupe

BOWL:RECEPTACLE::bicycle:vehicle

CAVERN:SPELUNKER::star:astronomer

LIKEN:SIMILARITY::discriminate:difference

INSTIGATOR:INCITE::bully:browbeat

GLACIAL:COLD::profound:deep

NEPOTISM:RELATIVE::cronyism:friend

LAW:CRIMINALITY::lesson:falsehood

ORATION:HEARD::novel:read

OBSERVATORY:ASTRONOMY::conservatory:music

PRODIGY:PERSON::miracle:occurrence

MOIST:SODDEN::surprised:astonished

STATUE:SCULPTURE::ode:poem

ANNOYING:GADFLY::rude:churl

DOSE:MEDICINE::sentence:punishment

DINGY:GLISTEN::slippery:adhere

MISCALCULATION:JUDGEMENT::gaffe:decorum

JOG:EXERCISE::barter:trade

STERILE:BACTERIA::impeccable:flaws

STOKE:FUEL::irrigate:water

ANECDOTE:AMUSEMENT::lecture:instruction

PORTRAIT:PAINTING::biography:history

VENERABLE:REVERENCE::despicable:scorn

DOLDRUMS:ENERGY::depravity:virtue

DISINTERESTED:PARTISANSHIP::venal:probity

MERCENARY:SOLDIER::hack:writer

MARSH:SODDEN::desert:arid

GRIPE:DISCONTENT::praise:admiration

DIRECTOR:SCRIPT::conductor:score

OPPORTUNE:CONVENIENCE::impermanent:transience

CIRCULAR:ASYMMETRICAL::protean:rigid

OPERA:ARIA::play:monologue

COMMAND:ENTREATY::goad:enticement

GRANDSTAND:IMPRESS::equivocate:deceive

REPROVE:REPRIMAND::blame:censure

FOLDER:PAPERS::drawer:clothing

PROSE:PARAGRAPH::poetry:stanza

SPLINT:IMMOBILIZE::duct:convey

TACKNESS:ADHESIVE::sharpness:scalpel

SHIFTLESS:AMBITION::ingenuous:guile

HISS:SIBILANT::drone:monotonous

FANATIC:ADMIRER::zealot:adherent

FLUENT:GLIB::meticulous:finicky

COVETOUS:DESIRE::prodigal:spend

INSECT:PESTICIDE::plant:herbicide

FASCINATION:INTEREST::adoration:fondness

MOSAIC:CERAMIC::patchwork:cloth

FOOT:PERAMBULATE::eye:observe

AGRARIAN:FARMING::mercantile:trade

GULLIBLE:CHICANERY::servile:domination

LIST:DISCOGRAPHY::tool:hoe

ALLOY:PURITY::thin:density

GRAMMAR:LANGUAGE::protocol:conduct

INDECIPHERABLE:DECODED::unmanageable:cotrolled

TWIG:LIMB::brook:river

APATHETIC:EMOTION::imprudent:discretion

OBSERVE:SCRUTINIZE::question:grill

GRATING:SOUND::fetid:smell

HEDONISTIC:PLEASURE::narcissistic:self

TRUMPET:HORN::tambourine:drum

SYCOPHANT:FLATTERY::extortionist:intimidation

EPITOMIZE:BREVITY::embellish:ornamentation

IMPACCABLE:FAULT::unblemished:imperfection

DISJOINTED:COHERENCE::banal:originality

WAIT:LURK::save:hoard

OPACITY:LIGHT::impermeable:fluid

THEATER:PERFORMANCE::market:commerce

LUSTROUS:POLISH::pure:refine

REGIMEN:HEALTH::budget:solvency

COLLAPSE:VOLUME::attenuate:thickness

ASCETIC:LUXURY::teetotaler:alcohol

TRIPOD:CAMERA::easel:canvas

AQUATIC:WATER::arboreal:trees

EMOLLIENT:SUPPLENESS::desiccant:dryness

DRAW:DOODLE::travel:ramble

CONSPICUOUS:SEE::transparent:understand

IMMATURE:DEVELOPED::incipient:realized

PERSPICACITY:ACUTE::caprice:whimsical

PLAYFUL:BANTER::exaggerated:hyperbole

QUARANTINE:CONTAGION::embargo:commerce

CHUCKLE:LAUGHING::whisper:speaking

PARAGRAPH:ESSAY::clause:sentence

STUPOR:ALERT::despair:hopeful

PAEAN:JOY::dirge:grief

RENEGADE:ALLEGIANCE::apostate:faith

DEVOTED:ZEALOUS::careful:fastidious

VESTIGE:REMAINDER::figurine:statue

EPHEMERAL:ENDURE::inelastic:stretch

MISDEMEANOR:CRIME::lapse:error

ELEGIAC:SORROW::devotional:reverence

ROSTRUM:ORATOR::bench:judge

MISUNDERSTOOD:CLARIFY::erroneous:retract

REFINERY:PETROLEUM::mill:grain

TEDIOUS:ENERGY::disturbing:composure

GRACEFUL:MOVEMENT::euphonious:sound

BRAVURA:PERFORMANCE::elaborate:oration

BADGER:BOTHER::belabor:mention

CONGRUENT:DIMENSIONS::coeval:age

OBSTRUCT:PROGRESS::stunt:growth

INTERVIEW:APPLICANT::audition:actor

COMBUSTIBLE:IGNITE::malleable:shape

SLACKEN:TENSION::blunt:sharpness

BIGOT:TOLERANCE::liar:honesty

IMPROVEMENTS:MASTERY::savings:wealth

DILETTANTE:SUPERFICIALITY::partisan:bias

WINNOW:CHAFF::filter:impurities

STANZA:LINE::concert:program

EARPLUG:NOISE::shield:impact

REVISE:MANUSCRIPT::retouch:picture

DAREDEVIL:AUDACITY::malcontent:dissatisfaction

CALCIUM:MINERAL::sugar:carbohydrate

DIRGE:GRIEF::paean:praise

ABANDON:INHIBITION::tranquility:agitation

INAUGURATION:OFFICIAL::matriculation:student

SCORN:REJECT::adulate:flatter

PROFLIGATE:SOLVENT::mercurial::committed

CONDUCTOR:INSTRUMENTALIST::director:actor

QUARRY:ROCK::mine:ore

STICKLER:EXACTING::defeatist:resigned

WALK:AMBLE::talk:chat

JAZZ:MUSIC::portraiture:painting

REPATRIATE:EMIGRATION::repeal:ratification

PLACEBO:INNOCUOUS::salve:unctuous

DISSEMINATE:INFORMATION::foment:discontentment

VOICE:QUAVER::hand:tremble

SILVER:TARNISH::iron:rust

DISLIKE:LOATHING::pleasure:bliss

CRAVEN:HEROIC::volatile:constant

FILLY:HORSE::pullet:chicken

PITHINESS:APHORISM::exaggeration:caricature

EPHEMERAL:ENDURING::inanimate:living

POSTURER:UNAFFECTED::bigot:tolerant

FACETIOUS:SPEECH::antic:behavior

VAGARY:PREDICT::impossibility:execute

HILL:MOUNTAUN::creek:river

AERATE:OXYGEN::hydrate:water

ORCHESTRA:MUSCICIAN::pack:wolf

EQUIVOCATION:MISLEADING::bromide:hackneyed

CENSORSHIP:COMMUNICATION::preservative:decay

BUS:PASSENGERS::tanker:liquid

BALLAD:STANZA::novel:chapter

DISABUSE:FALLACY::cur:disease

BLANDISHMENT:CAJOLE::obstacle:impede

TREE:FORESTRY::flower:horticulture

COMMAND:REQUEST::summon:invite

PESTLE:GRIND::whetstone:sharpen

ILLITERACY:EDUCATION::inequity:redistribution

REVERENCE:RESPECT::avidity:enthusiasm

APOSTROPHES:WORD::ellipse:sentence

EXAGGERATION:CARICATURE::brevity:epigram

MALLEABLE:SHAPE::irresolute:opinion

BOLSTER:SUPPORT::tackle:hoist

DIVERGE:APART::traverse:across

ATROCIOUS:BAD::momentous:important

PATRONIZE:CONDESCENSION::deride:mockery

FANG:TOOTH::finger:digit

ANALGESIC:PAIN::anesthetic:sensation

IMPECCABLE:FLAW::ingenuous:guile

POLEMIC:DISPUTATIOUS::invective:abusive

EMBARRASS:SHAME::console:comfort