PSAT Vocab Practice BiBS

READ THE FOLLOWING PASSAGE AND DETERMINE THE MEANING OF THE UNDERLINED WORD USING CONTEXT CLUES.

During the family reunion, Grandpa sat by the fireplace, smiling as he began to reminisce about his childhood. He spoke of summer afternoons spent fishing by the old creek and the adventures he had with his brothers. The room grew quiet as everyone listened, picturing the world he described so vividly.

QUESTION: In the passage, the word reminisce most nearly means:

• imagine

• reflect fondly

• predict

• none of these

READ THE FOLLOWING PASSAGE AND DETERMINE THE MEANING OF THE UNDERLINED WORD USING CONTEXT CLUES.

Throughout history, many leaders have sought to appear invincible, projecting an image of strength that suggests they cannot be defeated. This perception often boosts morale among followers and intimidates opponents. However, history also shows that no leader is truly beyond defeat, as overconfidence can lead to critical mistakes.

QUESTION: As used in the passage, the word invincible most nearly means:

• incapable of being harmed

• immune to criticism

• impossible to defeat

• none of these

READ THE FOLLOWING PASSAGE AND DETERMINE THE MEANING OF THE UNDERLINED WORD USING CONTEXT CLUES.

Jenna stood nervously at the edge of the stage, gripping the microphone tightly. As she began her speech, her voice trembled, and her words came out slurred, blending together in a way that made it hard for the audience to follow. She paused, took a deep breath, and started again—this time speaking slowly and clearly, her confidence growing with each word.

QUESTION: In the passage, what does the word slurred most nearly mean?

• spoken too softly to be heard

• mumbled or spoken unclearly

• expressed with strong emotion

• none of these

READ THE FOLLOWING PASSAGE AND DETERMINE THE MEANING OF THE UNDERLINED WORD USING CONTEXT CLUES.

As the sailors approached the dock, they worked together to hoist the heavy sails, securing them before disembarking. The captain watched carefully, ensuring every rope was fastened properly.

QUESTION: In the passage, what does the word "hoist" most nearly mean?

• to lower

• to lift

• to tighten

• none of these

READ THE FOLLOWING PASSAGE AND DETERMINE THE MEANING OF THE UNDERLINED WORD USING CONTEXT CLUES.

As Sarah walked through the dense forest, she caught a fleeting glimpse of a deer darting between the trees. The moment was so brief that she questioned whether it had been real or just her imagination.

QUESTION: In the passage, what does the word "glimpse" most nearly mean?

• a prolonged observation

• a vivid memory

• A detailed study

• none of these

READ THE FOLLOWING PASSAGE AND DETERMINE THE MEANING OF THE UNDERLINED WORD USING CONTEXT CLUES.

As the storm approached, the once calm ocean became restless. Waves grew taller, their white crests foaming as they crashed against the rocky shore. Beneath the surface, the churning waters stirred up sand and debris, clouding the once-clear depths.

QUESTION: In the passage, what does the word “churning” most nearly mean?

• moving violently and turbulently

• combining smoothly

• flowing gently

• none of these