Context Clues

No matter where you go, the Internet is following you. Almost every portable device is being made with an Internet connection. Most new TVs and many other appliances come with Internet connections as well. The Internet is truly ubiquitous.

tous. If something is ubiquitous, __________.

• It is scary and will bite you.

• It is everywhere.

• It is expensive

• Using it too much will make you sick

Speaking rudely to the judges was rash behaviour. You really hurt your chances of continuing in the competition ! In the above context, what does “rash” mean?

• funny

• an itchy skin condition

• daring

• showing little thought or consideration

Some people are always bashing the Prime Minister, just like others bashed the one before him. Wouldn't you think that everyone could find something to praise him for, at least once in a while? What does “bashing” mean in the above selection?

• hitting with a blunt object

• going to a lot of parties

• writing/speaking harshly about

• voting out of office

I believe that if you lower taxes so that people can keep more of the money they earn, it will be an incentive for them to work harder. What is the meaning of “incentive”? __________.

• a reason to do something

• a small amount of money

• a tax

• a good job

Most of America's Founding Fathers did not believe in women's suffrage. Only men could vote in the United states until 1920. What is “suffrage” ?

• something that causes physical pain

• an early flag

• skirts that did not cover the shins

• the right to vote

In the early 1600s, a dangerous trip across the Atlantic Ocean was a daunting idea. The Europeans, who would someday be known as the Pilgrims, must have been a very determined and brave group of settlers. A daunting task is one that would _______ someone

• tickle

• amuse

• anger

• intimidate

Fortunately, the explosion diverted the asteroid from a course that would have sent it hurdling into our planet.

To divert is to _____

• to look for really high waves.

• to change the direction of

• to jump into a dry canal

• to cut something equally in halves

Those scientists want to hear what our professor thinks about their theory because he is the foremost expert in their field. What does foremost mean?

• craziest

• loudest

• least informed

• The first or main one

Your cousin claimed to be late because the doors of his house were frozen shut. Even though I have my doubts, his explanation is plausible. It got really cold last night. I'll just have to take his word for it. If a statement is plausible, __________.

• It is believable

• It is unbelievable

• It is sensless and incomprehensible.

• It is believable enough to be true.

If you don't curtail your spending, you'll be broke in no time at all! Which word is a synonym of "curtail"?

• reduce

• follow

• change

• activate