Des12 U2

Don't be so optimistic / pessimistic. Everything's going to be fine, you'll see!

• optimistic

• pessimistic

Answer explanation

The statement advises against being pessimistic, suggesting that a negative outlook is unwarranted. Therefore, the correct answer is 'pessimistic', as it aligns with the context of encouraging a more positive perspective.

Most newspapers are usually biased / prejudiced towards a certain political outlook.

• biased

• prejudiced

Answer explanation

The term 'biased' specifically refers to a tendency to favor one side, making it the more accurate choice. 'Prejudiced' implies a broader, often irrational judgment, which is less precise in this context.

I'm slightly dubious / cynical about whether Sean's idea is going to work.

• dubious

• cynical

Answer explanation

The term 'dubious' indicates uncertainty or doubt about Sean's idea, which aligns with being skeptical. 'Cynical' suggests a belief that people are motivated by self-interest, which is not the primary sentiment expressed here.

To suggest that it's possible to create a society without crime is a little naive / sceptical, isn't it?

• naive

• sceptical

Answer explanation

Suggesting a crime-free society is considered naive because it overlooks the complexities of human behavior and societal issues. A sceptical view would question the feasibility, but the statement implies an unrealistic optimism.

The only ingenious / plausible explanation I can think of is that Jenna got the dates wrong.

• ingenious

• plausible

Answer explanation

The term 'plausible' means something that is reasonable or likely to be true, which fits the context of Jenna possibly getting the dates wrong. 'Ingenious' implies creativity, which is less relevant here.

Please don't baffle / discriminate me with loads of technical terminology. Use plain, simple English!

• baffle

• discriminate

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'baffle' because it means to confuse or perplex someone. The speaker is asking not to confuse them with complicated terms, while 'discriminate' means to treat someone differently, which doesn't fit here.

It's not always easy to assume / assess someone's suitability for a job just by talking to them in a short interview.

• assume

• assess

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'assess' because it refers to evaluating someone's suitability for a job, which is more accurate than 'assume', as assessing involves a deeper analysis than a brief conversation.

How can the government justify / speculate spending so much on the armed forces?

• justify

• speculate

Answer explanation

The government can justify spending on the armed forces by emphasizing national security, defense readiness, and the protection of citizens. This rationale supports the need for a strong military presence.

Looking at the damage, I would estimate / deduce that the painting will cost at least €2,000 to restore properly.

• estimate

• deduce

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'estimate' because it implies making an educated guess about the restoration cost based on visible damage, while 'deduce' suggests a logical conclusion that may not apply here.

I don't think you should reflect / presume that lots of people are going to help you with this project.

• reflect

• presume

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'presume' because it means to assume something is true without proof. In this context, it suggests not to assume that many people will help with the project, which aligns with the speaker's caution.