Night Vocab Pretest: Chps. 2 & 3

Despite her talent for public speaking, Jessica’s strong inhibition prevented her from voicing her opinion in the debate, as she feared judgment from her peers.

What does inhibition most likely mean in this sentence?

• A natural talent or skill

• A feeling of shyness or restraint

• A persuasive argument

• A sense of excitement and confidence

Although David wanted to stay out late with his friends, the constraint of his strict curfew forced him to leave the party earlier than he wished.

What does constraint most likely mean in this sentence?

• A limitation or restriction

• A casual suggestion

• A generous reward

• A sense of adventure

With college tuition looming, Maria knew she had to economize by cutting back on unnecessary expenses, such as daily coffee shop visits and online shopping sprees.

What does economize most likely mean in this sentence?

• To spend more money freely

• To save money by being frugal

• To take on additional jobs

• To donate money to others

Once the contract was signed, James realized he was irrevocably bound to its terms, unable to change his mind or alter the agreement.

What does irrevocably most likely mean in this sentence?

• In a way that cannot be undone

• In a temporary or reversible manner

• In a vague and uncertain way

• In a friendly and cooperative manner

Though many viewed Mrs. Thompson as a pious woman due to her frequent attendance at church, her actions outside of service did not always reflect the values she claimed to uphold.

What does pious most likely mean in this sentence?

• Deeply religious or devoted

• Dishonest and untrustworthy

• Generous and charitable

• Cold and unfriendly

As soon as the celebrity stepped onto the stage, the crowd erupted into a tumult of cheers, shouts, and flashing cameras, making it impossible for anyone to hear the announcer.

What does tumult most likely mean in this sentence?

• A loud and chaotic commotion

• A respectful silence

• A dull and boring moment

• A peaceful discussion

The coach’s harangue after the team’s embarrassing loss lasted nearly an hour, filled with sharp criticism and demands for better effort in the next game.

What does harangue most likely mean in this sentence?

• A long and angry speech

• A heartfelt apology

• A humorous joke

• A quiet and encouraging remark

After the accident, Nathan struggled to recall the details, but as his head cleared, lucidity returned, and he was able to describe exactly what had happened.

What does lucidity most likely mean in this sentence?

• A state of mental clarity

• A sense of confusion

• A moment of hesitation

• A feeling of exhaustion

The priest performed a ceremony to sanctify the new church, blessing it as a sacred space for worship and reflection.

What does sanctify most likely mean in this sentence?

• To make something holy

• To build something large

• To decorate something beautifully

• To judge something harshly

The soldier was exalted by his fellow officers for his bravery on the battlefield, receiving medals and public recognition for his heroism.

What does exalt most likely mean in this sentence?

• To criticize harshly

• To praise or honor highly

• To ignore or overlook

• To challenge or confront