Style, Intensity, and Connotation in Three-Blank Texts - GRE Verbal
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After years of detective work, Gerard could find even the most of crimes to be rather pedestrian; however, this particular murder was so that even he could not its horror.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After years of detective work, Gerard could find even the most of crimes to be rather pedestrian; however, this particular murder was so that even he could not its horror.
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The end of the second sentence can actually help us with the first blank. Apparently, Gerard cannot understand the horror of this crime. (This will become even more clear as we consider the blanks all together.) It seems that even the most horrible of crimes did not shock him. (To be called "pedestrian" means more than walking on the street! It means also to be ordinary.) Something "heinous" is extremely wicked-seeming. That is the best option for the first blank. Options like "baffling" and "vindictive" just do not capture this great wickedness or horror. The murder was one that was apparently quite bad, so "brutal" works well for such a killing. The final blank is perhaps the weakest of them all, but the general idea is that Gerard could not process the idea or reality of its horror.
The end of the second sentence can actually help us with the first blank. Apparently, Gerard cannot understand the horror of this crime. (This will become even more clear as we consider the blanks all together.) It seems that even the most horrible of crimes did not shock him. (To be called "pedestrian" means more than walking on the street! It means also to be ordinary.) Something "heinous" is extremely wicked-seeming. That is the best option for the first blank. Options like "baffling" and "vindictive" just do not capture this great wickedness or horror. The murder was one that was apparently quite bad, so "brutal" works well for such a killing. The final blank is perhaps the weakest of them all, but the general idea is that Gerard could not process the idea or reality of its horror.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After so many years of , Judy’s temperament was quite , so much so that her husband would carry tissues to dry the tears that regularly accompanied her about the difficulties of life.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After so many years of , Judy’s temperament was quite , so much so that her husband would carry tissues to dry the tears that regularly accompanied her about the difficulties of life.
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The best clue for this sentence is the general fact stated at the very end of the sentence, namely that Judy apparently complained about the difficulties of life. This is a very general point and does not allow us to guess if her difficulties were from illness, angering situations, or anything else specific like that. Therefore, the general term "adversity" (meaning difficulties) is the best option for the first blank. The word "lachrymose" is related to the "lachrymal" glands, that is, the tear ducts. To be "lachrymose" is to be "weepy" in temperament—something indicated by the regular occurrence of tears mentioned in the sentence. Finally, "lamentations" are expressions of sadness, something that likely would accompany tears.
The best clue for this sentence is the general fact stated at the very end of the sentence, namely that Judy apparently complained about the difficulties of life. This is a very general point and does not allow us to guess if her difficulties were from illness, angering situations, or anything else specific like that. Therefore, the general term "adversity" (meaning difficulties) is the best option for the first blank. The word "lachrymose" is related to the "lachrymal" glands, that is, the tear ducts. To be "lachrymose" is to be "weepy" in temperament—something indicated by the regular occurrence of tears mentioned in the sentence. Finally, "lamentations" are expressions of sadness, something that likely would accompany tears.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After many years of his trade, Timothy had become a(n) pressman, now able to train the who were learning how to run the newspaper's press.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After many years of his trade, Timothy had become a(n) pressman, now able to train the who were learning how to run the newspaper's press.
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The implication of this sentence clearly is that Timothy had worked at his trade for some time. It is a stock expression to speak of "plying one's trade," meaning diligently working at one's trade. He has mastered it, but he is not a journeyman, which is a type of trainee. Likewise, he is implied to be a master (of sorts), but the new men are not "maestros"! So, after plying his trade, Timothy had become "adept," meaning "very able." To be a "novice" is to be someone new to something. The prefix "nov-" can often mean new, coming from the Latin "novus,"meaning new.
The implication of this sentence clearly is that Timothy had worked at his trade for some time. It is a stock expression to speak of "plying one's trade," meaning diligently working at one's trade. He has mastered it, but he is not a journeyman, which is a type of trainee. Likewise, he is implied to be a master (of sorts), but the new men are not "maestros"! So, after plying his trade, Timothy had become "adept," meaning "very able." To be a "novice" is to be someone new to something. The prefix "nov-" can often mean new, coming from the Latin "novus,"meaning new.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Although Dorothy said that she was merely , in fact, she had a quite quite personality, which greatly annoyed her sister, who had a much harsher .
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Although Dorothy said that she was merely , in fact, she had a quite quite personality, which greatly annoyed her sister, who had a much harsher .
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This sentence expresses an intensification from the first blank to the second one. To find the appropriate meaning, we can begin by looking at the description given of Dorothy's sister. Her sister was harsher in some way. This means that Dorothy must have been kinder or, at least, less harsh. "Caring . . . loving" is the most tempting wrong pair. This is a kind of intensification. However, it is not as good as "sentimental . . . maudlin". Maudlin means excessively sentimental. This works well. Furthermore, it is more likely that we are talking about her sister's personality than her sister's "outlook." Therefore, "temperament" is a better choice for the last blank than is "outlook."
This sentence expresses an intensification from the first blank to the second one. To find the appropriate meaning, we can begin by looking at the description given of Dorothy's sister. Her sister was harsher in some way. This means that Dorothy must have been kinder or, at least, less harsh. "Caring . . . loving" is the most tempting wrong pair. This is a kind of intensification. However, it is not as good as "sentimental . . . maudlin". Maudlin means excessively sentimental. This works well. Furthermore, it is more likely that we are talking about her sister's personality than her sister's "outlook." Therefore, "temperament" is a better choice for the last blank than is "outlook."
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The large plaza became an utter of activity as the crowds , quickly filling the lot, which had heretofore been relatively .
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The large plaza became an utter of activity as the crowds , quickly filling the lot, which had heretofore been relatively .
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The best first clue to note is the fact that the lot was becoming filled. This implies that it had been empty heretofore. Thus, the last blank is best filled with "vacant" which means empty. It is related to words like "vacuum" and "vacation" (an "emptying" of time from work). A "maelstrom" is a kind of whirlpool, but it can also mean a very vigorous kind of activity that is like such a formation in the water. It seems the crowds are gathering in the once-empty lot. Therefore, they are "coalescing" there. This means coming together into one group.
The best first clue to note is the fact that the lot was becoming filled. This implies that it had been empty heretofore. Thus, the last blank is best filled with "vacant" which means empty. It is related to words like "vacuum" and "vacation" (an "emptying" of time from work). A "maelstrom" is a kind of whirlpool, but it can also mean a very vigorous kind of activity that is like such a formation in the water. It seems the crowds are gathering in the once-empty lot. Therefore, they are "coalescing" there. This means coming together into one group.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Ronald had quite a jittery temperament and would at the smallest of . Therefore, it was not surprising that he jumped up and hit his head when the tuba's music suddenly through the large hall.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Ronald had quite a jittery temperament and would at the smallest of . Therefore, it was not surprising that he jumped up and hit his head when the tuba's music suddenly through the large hall.
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Several initial clues help to interpret this sentence. Of course, it is important to notice that Ronald is "jittery", implying that he has a nervous temperament. Now, his reaction to the tuba music is to jump up and hit his head. Thus, we have a pair here between the first blank and this action. Almost all of the options for the third blank are tempting, so it is necessary to read them in conjunction with options for the first blank. (On some tests the answers might be independent; however, this kind of "parallel reading of options" is an important skill to have for unraveling the options provided on test day as well.)
The tuba clearly makes a loud sound and elicits a large reaction. We can be almost totally sure that the second blank will be "sounds,"so long as the other two words match well. At the smallest sound, Ronald would react as well. We only know that he would jump, so our first blank should be as close to that as possible. When someone "starts," he or she jumps with a sudden, small movement in surprise. This is much better than the other options provided for the first blank. Clearly, the tuba is eliciting an strong reaction, so the sound must have been rather loud. Therefore, "resonated" does well describe the sound the tuba made as its sound filled the hall. Certainly, "blasted" and "boomed" could work, but they are not paired well with the options for the first blank.
Several initial clues help to interpret this sentence. Of course, it is important to notice that Ronald is "jittery", implying that he has a nervous temperament. Now, his reaction to the tuba music is to jump up and hit his head. Thus, we have a pair here between the first blank and this action. Almost all of the options for the third blank are tempting, so it is necessary to read them in conjunction with options for the first blank. (On some tests the answers might be independent; however, this kind of "parallel reading of options" is an important skill to have for unraveling the options provided on test day as well.)
The tuba clearly makes a loud sound and elicits a large reaction. We can be almost totally sure that the second blank will be "sounds,"so long as the other two words match well. At the smallest sound, Ronald would react as well. We only know that he would jump, so our first blank should be as close to that as possible. When someone "starts," he or she jumps with a sudden, small movement in surprise. This is much better than the other options provided for the first blank. Clearly, the tuba is eliciting an strong reaction, so the sound must have been rather loud. Therefore, "resonated" does well describe the sound the tuba made as its sound filled the hall. Certainly, "blasted" and "boomed" could work, but they are not paired well with the options for the first blank.
Choose the set of words that best completes the following sentences.
The interview with the renown physicist was an exercise in futility; his responses were so that even the interviewer, who had a PhD in the subject herself, found his explanations to be overly and nearly impossible to follow. It was clear he was not willing to forego the use of technical in order to make his work more accessible to laypeople.
Choose the set of words that best completes the following sentences.
The interview with the renown physicist was an exercise in futility; his responses were so that even the interviewer, who had a PhD in the subject herself, found his explanations to be overly and nearly impossible to follow. It was clear he was not willing to forego the use of technical in order to make his work more accessible to laypeople.
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Based on the context of the sentence, we know that the interivewer found the physicist's responses to be "overtly" some negative characteristic, which made them some other characteristic and "impossible to follow." Based on this, the correct answer could begin with "arcane," which means likely to be understood by a small group of people, or "cryptic," which means puzzling and difficult to understand. "Circumlocutory" (said to avoid directly talking about a topic), "ancillary" (extraneous or additional), and "spurious" (seemingly true or authentic but actually not) wouldn't make sense, given that we're specifically told that this characteristic has to do with the physicist's remarks being "hard to follow."
From here, note that the first two blanks are likely similar in meaning, then consider the two remaining answer choices: "arcane . . . esoteric . . . jargon" and "cryptic . . . superfluous . . . know-how." "Arcane" and "esoteric" are similar in meaning, but "cryptic" is not close in meaning to "superfluous" (unnecessary), and "superfluous" doesn't make sense in the sentence's context. This means that the correct answer is "arcane . . . esoteric . . . jargon"; checking the third blank reveals that "jargon," meaning highly specialized language which is not readily understood by people who don't specialize in the subject, makes sense.
Based on the context of the sentence, we know that the interivewer found the physicist's responses to be "overtly" some negative characteristic, which made them some other characteristic and "impossible to follow." Based on this, the correct answer could begin with "arcane," which means likely to be understood by a small group of people, or "cryptic," which means puzzling and difficult to understand. "Circumlocutory" (said to avoid directly talking about a topic), "ancillary" (extraneous or additional), and "spurious" (seemingly true or authentic but actually not) wouldn't make sense, given that we're specifically told that this characteristic has to do with the physicist's remarks being "hard to follow."
From here, note that the first two blanks are likely similar in meaning, then consider the two remaining answer choices: "arcane . . . esoteric . . . jargon" and "cryptic . . . superfluous . . . know-how." "Arcane" and "esoteric" are similar in meaning, but "cryptic" is not close in meaning to "superfluous" (unnecessary), and "superfluous" doesn't make sense in the sentence's context. This means that the correct answer is "arcane . . . esoteric . . . jargon"; checking the third blank reveals that "jargon," meaning highly specialized language which is not readily understood by people who don't specialize in the subject, makes sense.
Choose the set of words that best completes the following sentences.
Cindy's presentation on the suffrage movement was delivered with . She spoke passionately about the obstacles the suffragettes had to overcome in order to women, giving them the same voting rights as their male counterparts.
Choose the set of words that best completes the following sentences.
Cindy's presentation on the suffrage movement was delivered with . She spoke passionately about the obstacles the suffragettes had to overcome in order to women, giving them the same voting rights as their male counterparts.
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Based on the second sentence, which states that Cindy "spoke passionately," we know that the first blank involves some positive characteristic that reenforces the passionate character of her speech. Based on this context, "verve," characterizing a speech delivered with passion, and "gusto," meaning enjoyment had as a result of doing something, both make sense. While "lucidity," meaning clarity, would not be nonsensical, it would also not convey the passionate nature of her presentation. "Trepidation," meaning fear or apprehension, and "commiseration," meaning emotional sympathy, would not make sense here.
After looking at the second sentence, we know that the second blank is describing some quality of the obstacles that have to be overcome. We can infer from this context that the blank is some negative characteristic, probably relating to difficulty. Given this context, "harrowing," meaning distressing, "exasperating," meaning infuriating, and "inordinate," meaning excessive, could all make sense here; however, because we have already rulled out "commiseration" for the first blank, we know we can also disregard "inordinate," leaving us with only "harrowing" or "exasperating" as possibilities. "Cantankerous," meaning bad-tempered, and "inadmissible," meaning invalid, would not really make sense in this context.
The context for the final blank is provided by "giving them the same voting rights as their male counterparts." Through the above analyzed process of elimination, we have been able to narrow down our choices to either "verve . . . harrowing . . . enfranchise," or "gusto . . . exasperating . . . remunerate." "Remunerate" means to pay someone for a service that person has provided, which doesn't really fit here. "Enfranchise," however, directly means to allow to vote legally, which fits perfectly given the sentence's context.
Based on the second sentence, which states that Cindy "spoke passionately," we know that the first blank involves some positive characteristic that reenforces the passionate character of her speech. Based on this context, "verve," characterizing a speech delivered with passion, and "gusto," meaning enjoyment had as a result of doing something, both make sense. While "lucidity," meaning clarity, would not be nonsensical, it would also not convey the passionate nature of her presentation. "Trepidation," meaning fear or apprehension, and "commiseration," meaning emotional sympathy, would not make sense here.
After looking at the second sentence, we know that the second blank is describing some quality of the obstacles that have to be overcome. We can infer from this context that the blank is some negative characteristic, probably relating to difficulty. Given this context, "harrowing," meaning distressing, "exasperating," meaning infuriating, and "inordinate," meaning excessive, could all make sense here; however, because we have already rulled out "commiseration" for the first blank, we know we can also disregard "inordinate," leaving us with only "harrowing" or "exasperating" as possibilities. "Cantankerous," meaning bad-tempered, and "inadmissible," meaning invalid, would not really make sense in this context.
The context for the final blank is provided by "giving them the same voting rights as their male counterparts." Through the above analyzed process of elimination, we have been able to narrow down our choices to either "verve . . . harrowing . . . enfranchise," or "gusto . . . exasperating . . . remunerate." "Remunerate" means to pay someone for a service that person has provided, which doesn't really fit here. "Enfranchise," however, directly means to allow to vote legally, which fits perfectly given the sentence's context.
Choose the set of words that best completes the following sentences.
While Ellen’s friend group tended to be studious and hardworking, she was not as when it came to her own schoolwork and often her academic duties to pursue her private hobbies. Although her friends tried to appear when she informed them that she had been accepted to a top-tier university, it was difficult for them to conceal their shock.
Choose the set of words that best completes the following sentences.
While Ellen’s friend group tended to be studious and hardworking, she was not as when it came to her own schoolwork and often her academic duties to pursue her private hobbies. Although her friends tried to appear when she informed them that she had been accepted to a top-tier university, it was difficult for them to conceal their shock.
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Based on the context of the sentence, we know the first blank will describe some quality that will be similar to Ellen's friend group, described as "studious and hardworking." Given this context, "sedulous," meaning dedicated and diligent, and "industrious," meaning diligent and hardworking, both would make sense. "Obsequious," meaning sychophantic, "hidebound," meaning unwilling to change because of tradition, and "conniving," relating to being conspiratorial or planning something immoral, don't make much sense here. As such, we know our possible choices are either "sedulous . . . shirked . . . nonplussed" or "industrious . . . malingered . . . vexed."
We know the second blank describes some action relating to Ellen favoring her private interests over her schoolwork. "Shirked," meaning avoided or neglected, fits here, and "malingered," meaning feigned an illness to avoid something, also could potentially fit, but doesn't seem to work quite as well. Moving to the final blank, we know the word describes something that contrasts with "shock." "Nonplussed" means not phased or not surprised, whereas "vexed" means annoyed or frustrated, which does not fit nearly as well. As such, we know the correct three choices are "sedulous . . . shirked . . . nonplussed."
Based on the context of the sentence, we know the first blank will describe some quality that will be similar to Ellen's friend group, described as "studious and hardworking." Given this context, "sedulous," meaning dedicated and diligent, and "industrious," meaning diligent and hardworking, both would make sense. "Obsequious," meaning sychophantic, "hidebound," meaning unwilling to change because of tradition, and "conniving," relating to being conspiratorial or planning something immoral, don't make much sense here. As such, we know our possible choices are either "sedulous . . . shirked . . . nonplussed" or "industrious . . . malingered . . . vexed."
We know the second blank describes some action relating to Ellen favoring her private interests over her schoolwork. "Shirked," meaning avoided or neglected, fits here, and "malingered," meaning feigned an illness to avoid something, also could potentially fit, but doesn't seem to work quite as well. Moving to the final blank, we know the word describes something that contrasts with "shock." "Nonplussed" means not phased or not surprised, whereas "vexed" means annoyed or frustrated, which does not fit nearly as well. As such, we know the correct three choices are "sedulous . . . shirked . . . nonplussed."
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Admittedly, being a requires one to be to a superior's instructions; however, some people are utterly , refusing to question any orders whatsoever.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Admittedly, being a requires one to be to a superior's instructions; however, some people are utterly , refusing to question any orders whatsoever.
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The easiest pair of blanks in this question are the last two. They represent an intensification. We can tell this by the word "utterly," which signals completeness. The only pair that might be tempting in this regard is "fierce . . . tenacious," for the latter means persisting with vigor or (more literally) holding on to something fiercely. (The word comes from the Latin "teneo," meaning to hold or keep.) That does not make much sense with the hint phrase "refusing to question any orders whatsoever."
Thus, the best pair is "obedient . . . obsequious." To be "obsequious" is to be excessively obedient—like someone who cringes and follows every order given to him or her. The relationship that helps us choose the first blank is one between a superior and someone "under" the superior. A "subordinate" is such a person. The word literally means placed ("-ordinate") under ("sub-").
The easiest pair of blanks in this question are the last two. They represent an intensification. We can tell this by the word "utterly," which signals completeness. The only pair that might be tempting in this regard is "fierce . . . tenacious," for the latter means persisting with vigor or (more literally) holding on to something fiercely. (The word comes from the Latin "teneo," meaning to hold or keep.) That does not make much sense with the hint phrase "refusing to question any orders whatsoever."
Thus, the best pair is "obedient . . . obsequious." To be "obsequious" is to be excessively obedient—like someone who cringes and follows every order given to him or her. The relationship that helps us choose the first blank is one between a superior and someone "under" the superior. A "subordinate" is such a person. The word literally means placed ("-ordinate") under ("sub-").
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The small skin abrasion did not seem to Ronald's ; nevertheless, he was filled with fear at the thought of how he could become so easily.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The small skin abrasion did not seem to Ronald's ; nevertheless, he was filled with fear at the thought of how he could become so easily.
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Clearly, Ronald is filled with fear at his wound—as is indicated by the second independent clause in this sentence. However, we should not say that he was filled with fear at the thought of how he could become maimed (or any other form of extreme injury). He was merely wounded by a small skin abrasion (i.e. a scrape). The sentence hints that he was filled with more fear than necessary. If the abrasion filled Ronald with such fear, it likely made him think of the fact that he could die—i.e. the fact that he is mortal. Though perhaps an overreaction, the sentence hints that he was reminded of his mortality. Hence, "hint at . . . mortality" is the best pairing for the first two blanks.
Clearly, Ronald is filled with fear at his wound—as is indicated by the second independent clause in this sentence. However, we should not say that he was filled with fear at the thought of how he could become maimed (or any other form of extreme injury). He was merely wounded by a small skin abrasion (i.e. a scrape). The sentence hints that he was filled with more fear than necessary. If the abrasion filled Ronald with such fear, it likely made him think of the fact that he could die—i.e. the fact that he is mortal. Though perhaps an overreaction, the sentence hints that he was reminded of his mortality. Hence, "hint at . . . mortality" is the best pairing for the first two blanks.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Many think that the medieval university was a(n) environment with little when, in fact, it was the locus of quite disagreement both publicly and privately.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Many think that the medieval university was a(n) environment with little when, in fact, it was the locus of quite disagreement both publicly and privately.
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The sentence hints at a contrast between the first and the third blanks. Additionally, the third blank is signaled to be a strong adjective, given the adverb "quite." The word "fervid" means extremely passionate, which works well as regards both the intensity and the noun that is being described, namely "disagreement." In contrast to this, one would think the medieval university to be a calm environment. Hence, "tranquil" is an excellent option for the first blank, meaning free from disturbance. Such tranquility was broken by public and private disagreement. Thus, the best choice for the second blank is "disputation," which well describes such disagreement.
The sentence hints at a contrast between the first and the third blanks. Additionally, the third blank is signaled to be a strong adjective, given the adverb "quite." The word "fervid" means extremely passionate, which works well as regards both the intensity and the noun that is being described, namely "disagreement." In contrast to this, one would think the medieval university to be a calm environment. Hence, "tranquil" is an excellent option for the first blank, meaning free from disturbance. Such tranquility was broken by public and private disagreement. Thus, the best choice for the second blank is "disputation," which well describes such disagreement.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After years of detective work, Gerard could find even the most of crimes to be rather pedestrian; however, this particular murder was so that even he could not its horror.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After years of detective work, Gerard could find even the most of crimes to be rather pedestrian; however, this particular murder was so that even he could not its horror.
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The end of the second sentence can actually help us with the first blank. Apparently, Gerard cannot understand the horror of this crime. (This will become even more clear as we consider the blanks all together.) It seems that even the most horrible of crimes did not shock him. (To be called "pedestrian" means more than walking on the street! It means also to be ordinary.) Something "heinous" is extremely wicked-seeming. That is the best option for the first blank. Options like "baffling" and "vindictive" just do not capture this great wickedness or horror. The murder was one that was apparently quite bad, so "brutal" works well for such a killing. The final blank is perhaps the weakest of them all, but the general idea is that Gerard could not process the idea or reality of its horror.
The end of the second sentence can actually help us with the first blank. Apparently, Gerard cannot understand the horror of this crime. (This will become even more clear as we consider the blanks all together.) It seems that even the most horrible of crimes did not shock him. (To be called "pedestrian" means more than walking on the street! It means also to be ordinary.) Something "heinous" is extremely wicked-seeming. That is the best option for the first blank. Options like "baffling" and "vindictive" just do not capture this great wickedness or horror. The murder was one that was apparently quite bad, so "brutal" works well for such a killing. The final blank is perhaps the weakest of them all, but the general idea is that Gerard could not process the idea or reality of its horror.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After so many years of , Judy’s temperament was quite , so much so that her husband would carry tissues to dry the tears that regularly accompanied her about the difficulties of life.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After so many years of , Judy’s temperament was quite , so much so that her husband would carry tissues to dry the tears that regularly accompanied her about the difficulties of life.
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The best clue for this sentence is the general fact stated at the very end of the sentence, namely that Judy apparently complained about the difficulties of life. This is a very general point and does not allow us to guess if her difficulties were from illness, angering situations, or anything else specific like that. Therefore, the general term "adversity" (meaning difficulties) is the best option for the first blank. The word "lachrymose" is related to the "lachrymal" glands, that is, the tear ducts. To be "lachrymose" is to be "weepy" in temperament—something indicated by the regular occurrence of tears mentioned in the sentence. Finally, "lamentations" are expressions of sadness, something that likely would accompany tears.
The best clue for this sentence is the general fact stated at the very end of the sentence, namely that Judy apparently complained about the difficulties of life. This is a very general point and does not allow us to guess if her difficulties were from illness, angering situations, or anything else specific like that. Therefore, the general term "adversity" (meaning difficulties) is the best option for the first blank. The word "lachrymose" is related to the "lachrymal" glands, that is, the tear ducts. To be "lachrymose" is to be "weepy" in temperament—something indicated by the regular occurrence of tears mentioned in the sentence. Finally, "lamentations" are expressions of sadness, something that likely would accompany tears.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After many years of his trade, Timothy had become a(n) pressman, now able to train the who were learning how to run the newspaper's press.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After many years of his trade, Timothy had become a(n) pressman, now able to train the who were learning how to run the newspaper's press.
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The implication of this sentence clearly is that Timothy had worked at his trade for some time. It is a stock expression to speak of "plying one's trade," meaning diligently working at one's trade. He has mastered it, but he is not a journeyman, which is a type of trainee. Likewise, he is implied to be a master (of sorts), but the new men are not "maestros"! So, after plying his trade, Timothy had become "adept," meaning "very able." To be a "novice" is to be someone new to something. The prefix "nov-" can often mean new, coming from the Latin "novus,"meaning new.
The implication of this sentence clearly is that Timothy had worked at his trade for some time. It is a stock expression to speak of "plying one's trade," meaning diligently working at one's trade. He has mastered it, but he is not a journeyman, which is a type of trainee. Likewise, he is implied to be a master (of sorts), but the new men are not "maestros"! So, after plying his trade, Timothy had become "adept," meaning "very able." To be a "novice" is to be someone new to something. The prefix "nov-" can often mean new, coming from the Latin "novus,"meaning new.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Although Dorothy said that she was merely , in fact, she had a quite quite personality, which greatly annoyed her sister, who had a much harsher .
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Although Dorothy said that she was merely , in fact, she had a quite quite personality, which greatly annoyed her sister, who had a much harsher .
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This sentence expresses an intensification from the first blank to the second one. To find the appropriate meaning, we can begin by looking at the description given of Dorothy's sister. Her sister was harsher in some way. This means that Dorothy must have been kinder or, at least, less harsh. "Caring . . . loving" is the most tempting wrong pair. This is a kind of intensification. However, it is not as good as "sentimental . . . maudlin". Maudlin means excessively sentimental. This works well. Furthermore, it is more likely that we are talking about her sister's personality than her sister's "outlook." Therefore, "temperament" is a better choice for the last blank than is "outlook."
This sentence expresses an intensification from the first blank to the second one. To find the appropriate meaning, we can begin by looking at the description given of Dorothy's sister. Her sister was harsher in some way. This means that Dorothy must have been kinder or, at least, less harsh. "Caring . . . loving" is the most tempting wrong pair. This is a kind of intensification. However, it is not as good as "sentimental . . . maudlin". Maudlin means excessively sentimental. This works well. Furthermore, it is more likely that we are talking about her sister's personality than her sister's "outlook." Therefore, "temperament" is a better choice for the last blank than is "outlook."
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The large plaza became an utter of activity as the crowds , quickly filling the lot, which had heretofore been relatively .
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The large plaza became an utter of activity as the crowds , quickly filling the lot, which had heretofore been relatively .
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The best first clue to note is the fact that the lot was becoming filled. This implies that it had been empty heretofore. Thus, the last blank is best filled with "vacant" which means empty. It is related to words like "vacuum" and "vacation" (an "emptying" of time from work). A "maelstrom" is a kind of whirlpool, but it can also mean a very vigorous kind of activity that is like such a formation in the water. It seems the crowds are gathering in the once-empty lot. Therefore, they are "coalescing" there. This means coming together into one group.
The best first clue to note is the fact that the lot was becoming filled. This implies that it had been empty heretofore. Thus, the last blank is best filled with "vacant" which means empty. It is related to words like "vacuum" and "vacation" (an "emptying" of time from work). A "maelstrom" is a kind of whirlpool, but it can also mean a very vigorous kind of activity that is like such a formation in the water. It seems the crowds are gathering in the once-empty lot. Therefore, they are "coalescing" there. This means coming together into one group.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Ronald had quite a jittery temperament and would at the smallest of . Therefore, it was not surprising that he jumped up and hit his head when the tuba's music suddenly through the large hall.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Ronald had quite a jittery temperament and would at the smallest of . Therefore, it was not surprising that he jumped up and hit his head when the tuba's music suddenly through the large hall.
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Several initial clues help to interpret this sentence. Of course, it is important to notice that Ronald is "jittery", implying that he has a nervous temperament. Now, his reaction to the tuba music is to jump up and hit his head. Thus, we have a pair here between the first blank and this action. Almost all of the options for the third blank are tempting, so it is necessary to read them in conjunction with options for the first blank. (On some tests the answers might be independent; however, this kind of "parallel reading of options" is an important skill to have for unraveling the options provided on test day as well.)
The tuba clearly makes a loud sound and elicits a large reaction. We can be almost totally sure that the second blank will be "sounds,"so long as the other two words match well. At the smallest sound, Ronald would react as well. We only know that he would jump, so our first blank should be as close to that as possible. When someone "starts," he or she jumps with a sudden, small movement in surprise. This is much better than the other options provided for the first blank. Clearly, the tuba is eliciting an strong reaction, so the sound must have been rather loud. Therefore, "resonated" does well describe the sound the tuba made as its sound filled the hall. Certainly, "blasted" and "boomed" could work, but they are not paired well with the options for the first blank.
Several initial clues help to interpret this sentence. Of course, it is important to notice that Ronald is "jittery", implying that he has a nervous temperament. Now, his reaction to the tuba music is to jump up and hit his head. Thus, we have a pair here between the first blank and this action. Almost all of the options for the third blank are tempting, so it is necessary to read them in conjunction with options for the first blank. (On some tests the answers might be independent; however, this kind of "parallel reading of options" is an important skill to have for unraveling the options provided on test day as well.)
The tuba clearly makes a loud sound and elicits a large reaction. We can be almost totally sure that the second blank will be "sounds,"so long as the other two words match well. At the smallest sound, Ronald would react as well. We only know that he would jump, so our first blank should be as close to that as possible. When someone "starts," he or she jumps with a sudden, small movement in surprise. This is much better than the other options provided for the first blank. Clearly, the tuba is eliciting an strong reaction, so the sound must have been rather loud. Therefore, "resonated" does well describe the sound the tuba made as its sound filled the hall. Certainly, "blasted" and "boomed" could work, but they are not paired well with the options for the first blank.
Choose the set of words that best completes the following sentences.
The interview with the renown physicist was an exercise in futility; his responses were so that even the interviewer, who had a PhD in the subject herself, found his explanations to be overly and nearly impossible to follow. It was clear he was not willing to forego the use of technical in order to make his work more accessible to laypeople.
Choose the set of words that best completes the following sentences.
The interview with the renown physicist was an exercise in futility; his responses were so that even the interviewer, who had a PhD in the subject herself, found his explanations to be overly and nearly impossible to follow. It was clear he was not willing to forego the use of technical in order to make his work more accessible to laypeople.
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Based on the context of the sentence, we know that the interivewer found the physicist's responses to be "overtly" some negative characteristic, which made them some other characteristic and "impossible to follow." Based on this, the correct answer could begin with "arcane," which means likely to be understood by a small group of people, or "cryptic," which means puzzling and difficult to understand. "Circumlocutory" (said to avoid directly talking about a topic), "ancillary" (extraneous or additional), and "spurious" (seemingly true or authentic but actually not) wouldn't make sense, given that we're specifically told that this characteristic has to do with the physicist's remarks being "hard to follow."
From here, note that the first two blanks are likely similar in meaning, then consider the two remaining answer choices: "arcane . . . esoteric . . . jargon" and "cryptic . . . superfluous . . . know-how." "Arcane" and "esoteric" are similar in meaning, but "cryptic" is not close in meaning to "superfluous" (unnecessary), and "superfluous" doesn't make sense in the sentence's context. This means that the correct answer is "arcane . . . esoteric . . . jargon"; checking the third blank reveals that "jargon," meaning highly specialized language which is not readily understood by people who don't specialize in the subject, makes sense.
Based on the context of the sentence, we know that the interivewer found the physicist's responses to be "overtly" some negative characteristic, which made them some other characteristic and "impossible to follow." Based on this, the correct answer could begin with "arcane," which means likely to be understood by a small group of people, or "cryptic," which means puzzling and difficult to understand. "Circumlocutory" (said to avoid directly talking about a topic), "ancillary" (extraneous or additional), and "spurious" (seemingly true or authentic but actually not) wouldn't make sense, given that we're specifically told that this characteristic has to do with the physicist's remarks being "hard to follow."
From here, note that the first two blanks are likely similar in meaning, then consider the two remaining answer choices: "arcane . . . esoteric . . . jargon" and "cryptic . . . superfluous . . . know-how." "Arcane" and "esoteric" are similar in meaning, but "cryptic" is not close in meaning to "superfluous" (unnecessary), and "superfluous" doesn't make sense in the sentence's context. This means that the correct answer is "arcane . . . esoteric . . . jargon"; checking the third blank reveals that "jargon," meaning highly specialized language which is not readily understood by people who don't specialize in the subject, makes sense.
Choose the set of words that best completes the following sentences.
Cindy's presentation on the suffrage movement was delivered with . She spoke passionately about the obstacles the suffragettes had to overcome in order to women, giving them the same voting rights as their male counterparts.
Choose the set of words that best completes the following sentences.
Cindy's presentation on the suffrage movement was delivered with . She spoke passionately about the obstacles the suffragettes had to overcome in order to women, giving them the same voting rights as their male counterparts.
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Based on the second sentence, which states that Cindy "spoke passionately," we know that the first blank involves some positive characteristic that reenforces the passionate character of her speech. Based on this context, "verve," characterizing a speech delivered with passion, and "gusto," meaning enjoyment had as a result of doing something, both make sense. While "lucidity," meaning clarity, would not be nonsensical, it would also not convey the passionate nature of her presentation. "Trepidation," meaning fear or apprehension, and "commiseration," meaning emotional sympathy, would not make sense here.
After looking at the second sentence, we know that the second blank is describing some quality of the obstacles that have to be overcome. We can infer from this context that the blank is some negative characteristic, probably relating to difficulty. Given this context, "harrowing," meaning distressing, "exasperating," meaning infuriating, and "inordinate," meaning excessive, could all make sense here; however, because we have already rulled out "commiseration" for the first blank, we know we can also disregard "inordinate," leaving us with only "harrowing" or "exasperating" as possibilities. "Cantankerous," meaning bad-tempered, and "inadmissible," meaning invalid, would not really make sense in this context.
The context for the final blank is provided by "giving them the same voting rights as their male counterparts." Through the above analyzed process of elimination, we have been able to narrow down our choices to either "verve . . . harrowing . . . enfranchise," or "gusto . . . exasperating . . . remunerate." "Remunerate" means to pay someone for a service that person has provided, which doesn't really fit here. "Enfranchise," however, directly means to allow to vote legally, which fits perfectly given the sentence's context.
Based on the second sentence, which states that Cindy "spoke passionately," we know that the first blank involves some positive characteristic that reenforces the passionate character of her speech. Based on this context, "verve," characterizing a speech delivered with passion, and "gusto," meaning enjoyment had as a result of doing something, both make sense. While "lucidity," meaning clarity, would not be nonsensical, it would also not convey the passionate nature of her presentation. "Trepidation," meaning fear or apprehension, and "commiseration," meaning emotional sympathy, would not make sense here.
After looking at the second sentence, we know that the second blank is describing some quality of the obstacles that have to be overcome. We can infer from this context that the blank is some negative characteristic, probably relating to difficulty. Given this context, "harrowing," meaning distressing, "exasperating," meaning infuriating, and "inordinate," meaning excessive, could all make sense here; however, because we have already rulled out "commiseration" for the first blank, we know we can also disregard "inordinate," leaving us with only "harrowing" or "exasperating" as possibilities. "Cantankerous," meaning bad-tempered, and "inadmissible," meaning invalid, would not really make sense in this context.
The context for the final blank is provided by "giving them the same voting rights as their male counterparts." Through the above analyzed process of elimination, we have been able to narrow down our choices to either "verve . . . harrowing . . . enfranchise," or "gusto . . . exasperating . . . remunerate." "Remunerate" means to pay someone for a service that person has provided, which doesn't really fit here. "Enfranchise," however, directly means to allow to vote legally, which fits perfectly given the sentence's context.