Grade 8 Vocabulary Challenge

Which of the following is the correct spelling?

• benovolent

• benevolent

• benevolant

• benivolent

Answer explanation

The correct spelling is 'benevolent', which means showing kindness and goodwill. The other options contain misspellings or incorrect letter placements.

What is the meaning of the word "quarantine"?

• A type of legal document

• A period of isolation to prevent the spread of disease

• A form of government

• A scientific experiment

Answer explanation

The word "quarantine" refers to a period of isolation imposed to prevent the spread of disease, making the second answer choice the correct one. The other options do not accurately describe the term.

Choose the correct definition for "diligence."

• Careful and persistent work or effort

• A false impression

• A legal right

• A type of illness

Answer explanation

The correct definition of 'diligence' is 'careful and persistent work or effort.' This emphasizes the importance of consistent and focused effort in completing tasks.

Which word means "to make something seem larger or more important than it really is"?

• exaggerate

• fascinate

• deceive

• maneuver

Answer explanation

The word 'exaggerate' means to make something seem larger or more important than it really is. The other options do not convey this meaning, making 'exaggerate' the correct choice.

Select the word that is spelled correctly:

• susseptible

• suseptible

• susceptible

• susseptable

Answer explanation

The correct spelling is 'susceptible', which means likely to be influenced or harmed by something. The other options contain misspellings.

Which word best fits in the following sentence? "After the accident, the driver was accused of ________ for not paying attention to the road."

• perseverance

• negligence

• gratitude

• jurisdiction

Answer explanation

The word 'negligence' fits best as it refers to the failure to take proper care, which aligns with the driver's lack of attention after the accident. The other options do not relate to responsibility in this context.

Choose the sentence that correctly uses the word "optimistic."

• She was optimistic that she would do well on the test.

• He was optimistic about the size of the mountain.

• The optimistic was a type of flower.

• They optimistic the answer.

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'She was optimistic that she would do well on the test.' because it uses 'optimistic' as an adjective to express a positive outlook. The other options misuse the word or are grammatically incorrect.

Which word would you use to describe a ruler who is cruel and oppressive?

• tyrant

• benevolent

• hypothetical

• relevant

Answer explanation

A ruler who is cruel and oppressive is best described as a 'tyrant.' This term specifically refers to someone who exercises power in a harsh and unjust manner, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

What is the origin of the word "analysis"?

• Latin

• Greek

• French

• German

Answer explanation

The word 'analysis' originates from the Greek word 'analusis', meaning 'a breaking up'. This etymology highlights the process of breaking down complex information into simpler parts, making Greek the correct choice.

Which word means "to trick or mislead someone"?

• deceive

• fascinate

• maneuver

• exaggerate

Answer explanation

The word 'deceive' means to trick or mislead someone, making it the correct choice. The other options do not convey the same meaning: 'fascinate' means to attract, 'maneuver' refers to skillful movement, and 'exaggerate' means to overstate.