Academic Assessment Vocabulary

verb to make a formal judgment or decision about a problem or disputed matter

• The judge will adjudicate on the matter tomorrow in court.
• I heard that the referee will adjudicate the game fairly.
• Let's let the boss adjudicate this dispute between us.
• It's up to you to adjudicate between your heart and your mind in this decision.

verb to make something no longer valid or effective

• The new evidence presented in court could potentially invalidate the previous witness testimony.
• If you don't sign and date the form correctly, it might invalidate your application.
• Using a fake ID could invalidate your chances of getting into the club.
• Her harsh words seemed to invalidate all of his hard work and effort.

noun a heavy defeat or beating in a game or contest

• The team suffered a humiliating trouncing in the championship game.
• We got a real trouncing in that last match.
• They got their butts handed to them in a trouncing.
• Her confidence took a trouncing after the harsh criticism.

noun a person or thing that is below average or inferior

adjective below average or inferior

• The quality of the product was subpar compared to industry standards.
• I was disappointed with the subpar service at the restaurant.
• The movie was subpar, I wouldn't waste your money on it.
• Her performance in the play was subpar, lacking the usual energy and enthusiasm.