Mastering Vocabulary: Context and Usage

The monk lived in an **austere** room with only a bed and a desk. What does "austere" mean in this context?

• Luxurious

• Spacious

• Simple and unadorned

• Colorful and bright

The scientist's theories were so **esoteric** that only a few of his colleagues really understood them. What does "esoteric" mean in this sentence?

• Widely accepted

• Easy to understand

• Intended for or understood by only a small number of people

• Based on false beliefs

The museum displayed a **facsimile** of the ancient manuscript. What does "facsimile" mean in this context?

• An original document

• A copy that is almost identical to the original

• A summary

• A translation

The carnival featured a house of mirrors that made everyone's reflection look **grotesque**. What does "grotesque" mean in this context?

• Beautiful and symmetrical

• Distorted and bizarre

• Perfectly normal

• Small and insignificant

The magician was able to **mesmerize** the audience with his amazing tricks. What does "mesmerize" mean in this sentence?

• Confuse

• Bore

• Hypnotize or fascinate

• Scare

The caterpillar's **metamorphosis** into a butterfly is a fascinating process. What does "metamorphosis" mean in this context?

• A rapid movement

• A change of color

• A complete transformation

• A return to an earlier state

The criminal was **notorious** for his clever bank heists. What does "notorious" mean in this sentence?

• Famous in a positive way

• Unknown or obscure

• Famous for something bad

• Skilled and professional

The clerk performed his duties in a **perfunctory** manner, showing little interest in his job. What does "perfunctory" mean in this context?

• With great enthusiasm

• In a detailed and careful way

• Without any effort or enthusiasm, as a routine

• In a manner that exceeds expectations

The politician's speech was designed to be **provocative** and stir up controversy. What does "provocative" mean in this sentence?

• Soothing and calming

• Causing annoyance, anger, or another strong reaction, especially deliberately

• Informative and enlightening

• Uninteresting and dull

The low-budget film was a **travesty** of the original novel, barely resembling the source material. What does "travesty" mean in this context?

• A tribute

• A faithful adaptation

• A distorted or grossly inferior imitation

• A sequel