A Civil Action Vocab

Which of the following sentences uses the word "corrode" correctly?

• The scientist's hypothesis began to corrode after the experiment failed.

• The metal began to corrode after being exposed to the elements.

• Her diligence in studying helped her corrode the exam.

• The notion of time seemed to corrode as the day went on.

Answer explanation

The correct usage of "corrode" refers to the gradual destruction of materials, typically metals, due to chemical reactions. The sentence "The metal began to corrode after being exposed to the elements" accurately reflects this meaning.

Using context clues, what does the word "hypothesis" most likely mean in the following sentence? "The scientist's hypothesis was tested through a series of experiments."

• A random guess

• A proposed explanation

• A proven fact

• A detailed observation

Answer explanation

In the sentence, the phrase "tested through a series of experiments" suggests that the hypothesis is an idea or explanation that the scientist is trying to validate, making "a proposed explanation" the correct meaning.

Using context clues, what does the word "incidence" most likely mean in the following sentence? "The incidence of flu cases increased dramatically during the winter months."

• The cause of flu cases

• The number of flu cases

• The treatment for flu cases

• The prevention of flu cases

Answer explanation

In the sentence, 'incidence' refers to the occurrence or frequency of flu cases, which aligns with 'the number of flu cases.' The context indicates a rise in cases, not causes, treatments, or prevention.

Which of the following best describes the notion of "diligence"?

• A sudden idea or thought

• A careful and persistent work or effort

• A lack of interest or enthusiasm

• A temporary pause or delay

Answer explanation

Diligence refers to careful and persistent work or effort. It emphasizes the importance of dedication and hard work, making the second choice the best description of the term.

Using context clues, what does "regimen" most likely mean in the sentence: "He followed a strict exercise regimen to improve his health"?

• A random series of events

• A systematic plan or course of action

• A chaotic lifestyle

• A spontaneous decision

Answer explanation

In the sentence, 'regimen' refers to a strict exercise routine, indicating a systematic plan or course of action to improve health, making 'A systematic plan or course of action' the correct choice.

In the context of medical terminology, what does "leukemia" refer to?

• A type of skin disease

• A type of blood cancer

• A type of bone disorder

• A type of heart condition

Answer explanation

Leukemia is a type of blood cancer that affects the bone marrow and blood, leading to the overproduction of abnormal white blood cells. This distinguishes it from skin diseases, bone disorders, and heart conditions.

Which sentence uses the word "speculating" correctly?

• She was speculating the soup to make sure it was hot.

• He spent the afternoon speculating about the stock market trends.

• The teacher was speculating the students during the exam.

• They were speculating the new movie at the theater.

Answer explanation

The correct sentence is 'He spent the afternoon speculating about the stock market trends.' Here, 'speculating' is used properly to mean forming theories without firm evidence, unlike the other options.

Using context clues, what does "deposition" most likely mean in the sentence: "The lawyer prepared for the deposition of the witness"?

• The removal of the witness

• The testimony of the witness

• The arrest of the witness

• The release of the witness

Answer explanation

In legal contexts, a 'deposition' refers to the testimony given by a witness under oath. The sentence indicates the lawyer is preparing for this process, making 'the testimony of the witness' the correct interpretation.

Using context clues, what does "pallor" most likely mean in the sentence: "Her sudden pallor was a sign that she was not feeling well"?

• A feeling of happiness

• A pale appearance

• A burst of energy

• A sense of calm

Answer explanation

In the sentence, 'pallor' refers to a sudden change in appearance, specifically becoming pale. This suggests she is unwell, making 'a pale appearance' the correct interpretation of 'pallor'.

Which of the following best describes the word "remission"?

• A period of increased symptoms

• A period of recovery or improvement

• A period of intense activity

• A period of complete inactivity

Answer explanation

The term "remission" refers to a period where symptoms of a disease decrease or improve, making "A period of recovery or improvement" the best description. The other options do not accurately reflect this meaning.