Vocabulary Quiz

Choose the best definition of the italicized word.

When the outfielder dropped the ball, cries of derision came from fans in the stands.

• anger

• ridicule

• appreciation

• disbelief

Choose the best definition of the italicized word.

Several hungry diners glared at the feckless waiter, who was chatting with his friends and neglecting his duties.

• slow-moving

• outgoing

• inexperienced

• irresponsible

Choose the best definition of the italicized word.

Elementary school teachers should be trained to help children who are bullied or ostracized by peers.

• excluded

• mocked

• humiliated

• selected

Choose the best definition of the italicized word.

In the freshman year, students take a mandatory course in writing and research skills.

• intensive

• helpful

• required

• basic

Choose the best definition of the italicized word.

Bad publicity about the company's environmental policies caused a great deal of public disapprobation and prompted a governmental inquiry.

• worry and fear

• controversy or disagreement

• media coverage

• moral disapproval

Choose the best definition of the italicized word.

Because he was remiss in his class attendance, Phineas failed the course.

• thoughtless

• lax in duty

• thoughtful

• behind schedule

Choose the best definition of the italicized word.

Mrs. Carson rebuked a crowd of students who were blocking the hallway.

• joined

• addressed at length

• separated

• criticized sharply

Choose the best definition of the italicized word.

Many readers were stunned by the newspaper's vitriolic editorial about the mayor.

• embarrassing

• moralizing

• bitterly harsh

• glowing

Choose the best definition of the italicized word.

Margot found that her tendency to be late was a liability when interviewing for summer jobs.

• handicap

• benefit

• requirement

• advantage

Choose the best definition of the italicized word.

Many citizens turned against the candidate after his scurrilous campaign ads appeared on television.

• informative

• foul and vulgar

• illegal

• not effective