SVA 5-8 Vocabulary Fill-in-the-Blank Exercise

Front

From the list below, supply the words needed to complete the paragraphs. Some words will not be used: advocate, gist, mesmerizes, charisma, efface, advocate, gist, mesmerizes, charisma, efface, illuminate, advocate, gist, mesmerizes, charisma, efface, obscure, advocate, gist, mesmerizes, charisma, efface, elucidate

Back

advocate, gist, mesmerizes, charisma, efface

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'advocate, gist, mesmerizes, charisma, efface' as these words fit the context of the paragraphs, conveying ideas of support, essence, fascination, charm, and removal, respectively.

Front

Sally described enough of the movie for Bill to get the gist of it, but not enough to...

Back

spoil the ending for him.

Answer explanation

Sally provided enough details for Bill to grasp the movie's essence without revealing crucial plot points, ensuring she didn't spoil the ending for him, which is the main concern when discussing a film.

Front

The jury was shocked when, during the trial, the dastardly criminal...

Back

confessed to all his crimes.

Answer explanation

The word 'dastardly' implies something wicked or villainous. Therefore, the jury would be shocked if the dastardly criminal confessed to all his crimes, revealing his guilt and malicious nature.

Front

Fill in the blank: The _____ between Mike and Brad showed through the manner in which they argued over the most trivial company decisions.

Back

enmity

Answer explanation

The word 'enmity' fits best as it indicates hostility, which is evident in how Mike and Brad argue over trivial decisions. Their contentious behavior suggests a lack of friendship or collaboration.

Front

Fill in the blank: Weeks before, Brad had been promoted to regional manager in an obvious act of _____

Back

nepotism

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'nepotism' because it implies that Brad's promotion was influenced by his connections or relationships, rather than merit or random chance, suggesting favoritism based on personal ties.

Front

Fill in the blank: Mike _____ Brad for the promotion because it had taken fifteen years for Mike to become a regional manager.

Back

begrudged

Answer explanation

Mike 'begrudged' Brad for the promotion because he had worked hard for fifteen years to become a regional manager, suggesting feelings of resentment towards Brad's advancement.

Front

Fill in the blank: Now, during any argument with Brad, Mike was sure to _____ about how 'fifteen years of seniority and experience make my decisions practically infallible.'

Back

declaim

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'declaim' because it implies speaking loudly and with conviction, fitting the context of Mike asserting his experience. The other options suggest quieter forms of speech, which do not match the assertive tone.

Front

Fill in the blank: Corporate leaders, high-ranking government officials, and influential _____ gathered in the halls of Xavier’s mansion at least once a month.

Back

mandarin

Answer explanation

The term 'mandarin' refers to influential bureaucrats or officials, fitting the context of corporate leaders and government officials. The other options, while notable, do not align with the theme of power and influence in governance.

Front

Fill in the blank: Xavier, a noted _____, usually invited his guests to his colossal private library.

Back

bibliophile

Answer explanation

The term 'bibliophile' refers to a person who loves books, making it the most fitting choice. Xavier's colossal private library suggests he has a deep appreciation for literature, unlike the other options which do not relate to books.

Front

Fill in the blank: The presence of hundreds of rare, ancient tomes _____ them with a sense of humility.

Back

imbued

Answer explanation

The word 'imbued' means to inspire or permeate with a feeling or quality. In this context, the presence of rare tomes inspires a sense of humility, making 'imbued' the correct choice over 'confused', 'distracted', or 'overwhelmed'.