Vocabulary Mastery: Context and Analysis

A character in a novel decides to renounce their claim to the throne, even though it would bring them great power. Which of the following best explains the character’s motivation using the meaning of "renounce"?

• They want to suppress their emotions.

• They wish to formally give up their right.

• They are overburdened by responsibility.

• They want to evoke sympathy.

Given the word "prudent," which scenario best demonstrates prudent behavior?

• Spending all your savings on a luxury item.

• Ignoring advice from experts.

• Carefully planning your budget to avoid debt.

• Deviating from a proven method without reason.

A writer is criticized for using hackneyed phrases in their work. What effect does this have on the reader, and why?

• It evokes a sense of originality.

• It makes the narrative more engaging.

• It causes the writing to seem unoriginal and stale.

• It suppresses the main theme.

Compare the words "perceptive" and "candor." In what way might a perceptive person use candor in a conversation?

• By ignoring others’ feelings.

• By honestly sharing insights they have noticed.

• By suppressing their true thoughts.

• By abstaining from the discussion.

Which of the following situations best illustrates the meaning of "tenuous"?

• A strong, unbreakable friendship.

• A connection between two ideas that is weak and barely supported.

• A pivotal moment in history.

• A domestic dispute resolved quickly.

If a student is asked to annotate a poem, what are they most likely being asked to do?

• Memorize the poem.

• Add notes explaining or commenting on the text.

• Suppress their opinions about the poem.

• Renounce their interpretation.

A scientist’s discovery is described as "fortuitous." What does this imply about how the discovery was made?

• It was the result of careful planning.

• It happened by chance or luck.

• It was suppressed by authorities.

• It was a domestic achievement.

Which of the following best contrasts the words "ideal" and "effectual" in the context of problem-solving?

• "Ideal" refers to what is perfect in theory, while "effectual" refers to what actually works in practice.

• Both mean the same thing.

• "Ideal" is less desirable than "effectual."

• "Effectual" is only used for domestic issues.

A person chooses to abstain from voting in an election. What reasoning might best explain their decision, using the meaning of "abstain"?

• They want to deviate from the rules.

• They choose not to participate, possibly due to personal beliefs or uncertainty.

• They are overburdened with work.

• They disdain the candidates.

How might a predatory business practice differ from a prudent one?

• Predatory practices exploit others for gain, while prudent practices are careful and considerate of risks.

• Both are equally ethical.

• Prudent practices are more aggressive.

• Predatory practices are always effectual.