Nuances in word meaning

After running the entire race without stopping, Maya wasn't just tired, she was completely ___.

• sleepy

• exhausted

• relaxed

• bored

Answer explanation

The word 'exhausted' shows a much stronger level of tiredness than 'sleepy' or 'tired', which fits the context of running an entire race. 'Relaxed' and 'bored' do not fit the context of physical exertion.

Tags

CCSS.L.1.5D

CCSS.L.2.5B

CCSS.L.3.5C

CCSS.L.K.5D

Sort these words by their usual connotation: Positive or Negative.

Groups:

(a) Positive

,

(b) Negative

• thrifty

• cheap

• confident

• arrogant

Answer explanation

'Thrifty' and 'confident' have positive connotations, suggesting being careful with money and self-assured. 'Cheap' and 'arrogant' have negative connotations, suggesting poor quality and being overly proud.

Tags

CCSS.L.6.5C

CCSS.L.7.5C

CCSS.RI.6.4

CCSS.RL.6.4

CCSS.RL.7.4

Match each common, informal word to its more formal equivalent.

• inform

• help

• request

• ask

• assist

• get

• obtain

• tell

Answer explanation

Each informal word is paired with a formal word that has a similar meaning but is used in more official or serious situations. 'Request' is a formal way to 'ask', 'obtain' is a formal way to 'get', etc.

The detective had to ___ the tiny clue left at the scene. Which word suggests a very careful and detailed look?

• glance at

• examine

• see

• stare at

Answer explanation

'Examine' means to inspect something in detail, which is the most appropriate action for a detective looking at a clue. 'Glance' is too quick, 'see' is too general, and 'stare' implies a long, fixed look without the same sense of investigation.

What is the main difference in meaning between a house and a home?

• A 'house' is bigger than a 'home'.

• A 'home' has an emotional connection, while a 'house' is just a building.

• A 'house' is for families, and a 'home' is for single people.

• There is no difference; the words mean the same thing.

Answer explanation

The word 'house' refers to the physical structure, while 'home' carries a positive connotation of warmth, family, and belonging. This is a key nuance in their meanings.

Tags

CCSS.L.5.5C

Sort these words for heat by their intensity: Mild, Moderate, and Strong.

Groups:

(a) Mild

,

(b) Moderate

,

(c) Strong

• tepid

• scorching

• warm

• hot

Answer explanation

The words are sorted by increasing intensity. 'Tepid' and 'warm' both describe a mild heat. 'Hot' is a moderate or standard level of heat. 'Scorching' describes an extreme, powerful heat.

Tags

CCSS.L.1.5D

CCSS.L.2.5B

CCSS.L.3.5C

CCSS.L.K.5D

Leo clearly stated his opinion in the group project without being rude. He was being ___.

• bossy

• assertive

• shy

• meek

Answer explanation

'Assertive' has a positive connotation and means confidently expressing one's views. 'Bossy' has a negative connotation and means being domineering. 'Shy' and 'meek' mean the opposite.

Match each word for movement to the specific way of moving it describes.

• To walk with purpose and steady rhythm

• march

• To walk quietly on the tips of the toes

• stroll

• To walk in a slow, relaxed way

• tiptoe

Answer explanation

Each word describes a specific type of movement. 'Stroll' is relaxed, 'march' is rhythmic and purposeful, and 'tiptoe' is quiet and careful. These nuances distinguish them from the general word 'walk'.

Tags

CCSS.L.1.6

CCSS.L.3.6

CCSS.L.4.6

CCSS.RL.1.4

Which sentence uses the most formal language appropriate for an email to a teacher?

• Hey, I was wondering if I can get the homework.

• I need to know what the assignment is for tonight.

• Could you please let me know what the homework is?

• Gimme the homework details.

Answer explanation

This sentence uses polite and formal phrasing like 'Could you please' and 'let me know', which is appropriate for communicating with a teacher. The other options are too informal or demanding.

Which word has a more negative connotation than curious?

• inquisitive

• interested

• nosy

• questioning

Answer explanation

While 'curious' and 'inquisitive' mean wanting to know more, 'nosy' has a negative connotation, implying that someone is prying into matters that are not their concern.