Word meaning in context, the purpose a sentence or paragraph serves, and how two texts relate. Read the sentence around the blank before looking at any choice.
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In the sentence "The engineer's proposal was practical because it used materials already available locally," what does "practical" most nearly mean?In the sentence "The engineer's proposal was practical because it used materials already available locally," what does "practical" most nearly mean?
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Answer: possible to carry out effectivelypossible to carry out effectively
The nearby reason - using locally available materials - signals that the proposal is feasible and workable, not merely academic or specialized.The nearby reason - using locally available materials - signals that the proposal is feasible and workable, not merely academic or specialized.
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A paragraph first describes a community garden's crowded opening day and then explains how volunteers organized weekly work teams. The second part of the paragraph primarilyA paragraph first describes a community garden's crowded opening day and then explains how volunteers organized weekly work teams. The second part of the paragraph primarily
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Answer: explains how the garden's early interest was sustained.explains how the garden's early interest was sustained.
The first part establishes strong initial interest, and the second provides an organizational response that can keep that activity going.The first part establishes strong initial interest, and the second provides an organizational response that can keep that activity going.
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Text 1 calls public murals a way to make shared spaces more welcoming. Text 2 cautions that mural projects should compensate local artists fairly. Which statement best describes the relationship between the texts?Text 1 calls public murals a way to make shared spaces more welcoming. Text 2 cautions that mural projects should compensate local artists fairly. Which statement best describes the relationship between the texts?
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Answer: Text 2 adds an ethical consideration to Text 1's positive view.Text 2 adds an ethical consideration to Text 1's positive view.
The texts can agree that murals help shared spaces while also recognizing fair compensation as an important condition for the work.The texts can agree that murals help shared spaces while also recognizing fair compensation as an important condition for the work.
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The author writes that a small change to the bus schedule had a "ripple effect" on nearby businesses. In this context, "ripple effect" most nearly refers toThe author writes that a small change to the bus schedule had a "ripple effect" on nearby businesses. In this context, "ripple effect" most nearly refers to
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Answer: a pattern that spreads through connected situations.a pattern that spreads through connected situations.
A ripple begins in one place and spreads outward. Here the phrase describes consequences reaching connected businesses beyond the schedule itself.A ripple begins in one place and spreads outward. Here the phrase describes consequences reaching connected businesses beyond the schedule itself.
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An article opens with a description of a scientist repairing old instruments and then shifts to the scientist's discoveries. The opening description most likely serves toAn article opens with a description of a scientist repairing old instruments and then shifts to the scientist's discoveries. The opening description most likely serves to
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Answer: show a habit that helped prepare the scientist for later work.show a habit that helped prepare the scientist for later work.
The shift links early hands-on experience with subsequent discoveries. The opening is illustrative background, not proof about instrument age or a complete catalog.The shift links early hands-on experience with subsequent discoveries. The opening is illustrative background, not proof about instrument age or a complete catalog.
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The review calls the novel's ending "restrained," noting that the author avoids dramatic speeches and allows the final scene to remain quiet. Which meaning best fits "restrained"?The review calls the novel's ending "restrained," noting that the author avoids dramatic speeches and allows the final scene to remain quiet. Which meaning best fits "restrained"?
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Answer: controlled and not excessivecontrolled and not excessive
Avoiding dramatic speeches and keeping the scene quiet shows deliberate control. The context does not suggest incompleteness, anger, or irrelevance.Avoiding dramatic speeches and keeping the scene quiet shows deliberate control. The context does not suggest incompleteness, anger, or irrelevance.
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A columnist argues that reusable containers are most effective when they are convenient. A city report describes return stations placed near transit stops. The report providesA columnist argues that reusable containers are most effective when they are convenient. A city report describes return stations placed near transit stops. The report provides
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Answer: an example that could support the columnist's reasoning.an example that could support the columnist's reasoning.
Stations near transit stops make returns easier, which is a practical example of convenience supporting the use of reusable containers.Stations near transit stops make returns easier, which is a practical example of convenience supporting the use of reusable containers.
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A writer presents two possible explanations for a decline in pond water levels and then describes an experiment designed to distinguish between them. The experiment is included mainly toA writer presents two possible explanations for a decline in pond water levels and then describes an experiment designed to distinguish between them. The experiment is included mainly to
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Answer: show how the competing explanations can be tested.show how the competing explanations can be tested.
The experiment follows the competing explanations specifically to determine which one better accounts for the observed decline.The experiment follows the competing explanations specifically to determine which one better accounts for the observed decline.
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The mayor described the new library branch as a "cornerstone" of the neighborhood plan. In context, the word suggests that the branch isThe mayor described the new library branch as a "cornerstone" of the neighborhood plan. In context, the word suggests that the branch is
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Answer: a central and supporting part of the plan.a central and supporting part of the plan.
A cornerstone is figuratively an essential foundation. The phrase emphasizes the library's importance, not its construction material or literal location.A cornerstone is figuratively an essential foundation. The phrase emphasizes the library's importance, not its construction material or literal location.
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Text 1 says local oral histories preserve memories that may not appear in written archives. Text 2 explains methods for recording interviews and obtaining consent. Text 2 mainlyText 1 says local oral histories preserve memories that may not appear in written archives. Text 2 explains methods for recording interviews and obtaining consent. Text 2 mainly
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Answer: provides practical guidance related to Text 1's source of information.provides practical guidance related to Text 1's source of information.
Text 1 identifies oral histories as valuable sources; Text 2 gives procedures for collecting interviews, which are the material for such histories.Text 1 identifies oral histories as valuable sources; Text 2 gives procedures for collecting interviews, which are the material for such histories.
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A guide first defines composting and then lists items that should not be placed in a home compost bin. The list mainly helps readersA guide first defines composting and then lists items that should not be placed in a home compost bin. The list mainly helps readers
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Answer: apply the definition correctly in practice.apply the definition correctly in practice.
By naming exclusions, the list translates the general definition into decisions a reader can make when composting at home.By naming exclusions, the list translates the general definition into decisions a reader can make when composting at home.
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The committee described the plan as "modest," noting that it proposed a single new bus route rather than a redesigned network. As used in the text, what does the word "modest" most nearly mean?The committee described the plan as "modest," noting that it proposed a single new bus route rather than a redesigned network. As used in the text, what does the word "modest" most nearly mean?
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Answer: limited in scopelimited in scope
The clause after the comma contrasts one route with a whole network, which fixes the meaning as small in extent. The other senses of "modest" do not fit that contrast.The clause after the comma contrasts one route with a whole network, which fixes the meaning as small in extent. The other senses of "modest" do not fit that contrast.
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An article opens by listing the tools a bookbinder keeps on her bench, then explains how each one is used during a single repair. The opening list mainly serves toAn article opens by listing the tools a bookbinder keeps on her bench, then explains how each one is used during a single repair. The opening list mainly serves to
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Answer: introduce the objects the rest of the article will explain.introduce the objects the rest of the article will explain.
The list names exactly what the following section takes up one at a time, so it functions as a setup. No comparison is drawn and no conclusion is stated.The list names exactly what the following section takes up one at a time, so it functions as a setup. No comparison is drawn and no conclusion is stated.
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Text 1 claims that a museum's free admission days mainly draw visitors who already attend often. Text 2 reports that on free days at that museum, a third of visitors were attending for the first time. Text 2 primarilyText 1 claims that a museum's free admission days mainly draw visitors who already attend often. Text 2 reports that on free days at that museum, a third of visitors were attending for the first time. Text 2 primarily
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Answer: presents evidence that complicates Text 1's claim.presents evidence that complicates Text 1's claim.
A third of visitors being first-timers is hard to square with the claim that free days mainly draw regulars, so the second text pushes against the first rather than confirming or restating it.A third of visitors being first-timers is hard to square with the claim that free days mainly draw regulars, so the second text pushes against the first rather than confirming or restating it.
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The biographer writes that the inventor's early notebooks are "crowded": margins filled with sketches, corrections layered over corrections. As used in the text, what does the word "crowded" most nearly mean?The biographer writes that the inventor's early notebooks are "crowded": margins filled with sketches, corrections layered over corrections. As used in the text, what does the word "crowded" most nearly mean?
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Answer: densely filleddensely filled
The colon introduces the evidence for the word: filled margins and layered corrections describe density on the page, not sound, popularity, or availability.The colon introduces the evidence for the word: filled margins and layered corrections describe density on the page, not sound, popularity, or availability.
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A passage describes a grower's failed attempt to raise a crop in poor soil, then the adjustments made over the next two seasons, then a successful harvest in the third. The passage is organized asA passage describes a grower's failed attempt to raise a crop in poor soil, then the adjustments made over the next two seasons, then a successful harvest in the third. The passage is organized as
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Answer: a problem, a sequence of responses, and an outcome.a problem, a sequence of responses, and an outcome.
The three parts map directly onto a difficulty, the steps taken in response, and the result. No claim is argued against, nothing is defined, and only one grower appears.The three parts map directly onto a difficulty, the steps taken in response, and the result. No claim is argued against, nothing is defined, and only one grower appears.
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The critic notes that the sculpture "anchors" the plaza: visitors gather beside it and give directions in relation to it. As used in the text, what does the word "anchors" most nearly mean?The critic notes that the sculpture "anchors" the plaza: visitors gather beside it and give directions in relation to it. As used in the text, what does the word "anchors" most nearly mean?
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Answer: gives a fixed reference point togives a fixed reference point to
The evidence after the colon is about orientation, not weight or attachment: people locate themselves and others by the sculpture, which is what serving as a reference point means.The evidence after the colon is about orientation, not weight or attachment: people locate themselves and others by the sculpture, which is what serving as a reference point means.
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Text 1 argues that a shorter workweek raises output because rested workers concentrate better. Text 2 reports that in trials, output rose only at firms that also cut the number of meetings. The author of Text 2 would most likely say that Text 1Text 1 argues that a shorter workweek raises output because rested workers concentrate better. Text 2 reports that in trials, output rose only at firms that also cut the number of meetings. The author of Text 2 would most likely say that Text 1
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Answer: identifies a real effect but overlooks a change in how time is used.identifies a real effect but overlooks a change in how time is used.
Text 2 accepts that output rose, but attaches a condition Text 1 does not mention. It neither denies the effect nor comments on the size of the rest benefit or the study's design.Text 2 accepts that output rose, but attaches a condition Text 1 does not mention. It neither denies the effect nor comments on the size of the rest benefit or the study's design.
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In a paragraph about a river cleanup, the writer gives one sentence to the volunteers' early doubts and five to what they accomplished. This proportion mainly serves toIn a paragraph about a river cleanup, the writer gives one sentence to the volunteers' early doubts and five to what they accomplished. This proportion mainly serves to
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Answer: acknowledge an initial concern while keeping the focus on results.acknowledge an initial concern while keeping the focus on results.
One sentence is enough to register the doubt; the five that follow put the weight on what was achieved. Nothing in the paragraph leaves the doubts open or draws a comparison.One sentence is enough to register the doubt; the five that follow put the weight on what was achieved. Nothing in the paragraph leaves the doubts open or draws a comparison.
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The guide calls the trail "deceptive": it looks flat from the parking area but climbs steadily for two miles. As used in the text, what does the word "deceptive" most nearly mean?The guide calls the trail "deceptive": it looks flat from the parking area but climbs steadily for two miles. As used in the text, what does the word "deceptive" most nearly mean?
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Answer: misleading in appearancemisleading in appearance
The colon supplies the evidence: how the trail looks differs from how it is. That is a gap between appearance and reality, not dishonesty by a builder.The colon supplies the evidence: how the trail looks differs from how it is. That is a gap between appearance and reality, not dishonesty by a builder.
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Text 1 argues that oral traditions preserve knowledge that written records leave out. Text 2 argues that written records preserve details that memory alters over time. Taken together, the two texts most strongly suggest thatText 1 argues that oral traditions preserve knowledge that written records leave out. Text 2 argues that written records preserve details that memory alters over time. Taken together, the two texts most strongly suggest that
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Answer: each kind of record preserves something the other tends to lose.each kind of record preserves something the other tends to lose.
Read together, the two texts name complementary strengths rather than ranking the two forms. Neither text claims one will replace the other or that both are untrustworthy.Read together, the two texts name complementary strengths rather than ranking the two forms. Neither text claims one will replace the other or that both are untrustworthy.
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An essay opens by asking why a small town has kept its century-old clock running, then describes the volunteers who wind it each week, and closes by returning to the question. The closing mainly serves toAn essay opens by asking why a small town has kept its century-old clock running, then describes the volunteers who wind it each week, and closes by returning to the question. The closing mainly serves to
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Answer: answer the opening question using what the middle described.answer the opening question using what the middle described.
Returning to the opening question after presenting the volunteers' work is what makes the middle section the answer. No new question, doubt, or list is introduced.Returning to the opening question after presenting the volunteers' work is what makes the middle section the answer. No new question, doubt, or list is introduced.
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The historian describes the treaty's language as "elastic": each side read its central clause as protecting a different interest. As used in the text, what does the word "elastic" most nearly mean?The historian describes the treaty's language as "elastic": each side read its central clause as protecting a different interest. As used in the text, what does the word "elastic" most nearly mean?
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Answer: open to more than one readingopen to more than one reading
The colon supplies the evidence: two sides drew different meanings from the same clause. That is interpretive stretch, not physical flexibility or fragility.The colon supplies the evidence: two sides drew different meanings from the same clause. That is interpretive stretch, not physical flexibility or fragility.
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A profile of a violin maker begins with three sentences on the noise of the workshop, then turns to the silence she requires when fitting a soundpost. The opening mainly serves toA profile of a violin maker begins with three sentences on the noise of the workshop, then turns to the silence she requires when fitting a soundpost. The opening mainly serves to
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Answer: establish a contrast that makes the later silence noticeable.establish a contrast that makes the later silence noticeable.
The opening's function is to set up the shift that follows; noise is meaningful here because silence comes after it. Summarizing the noise or the fitting describes content rather than function.The opening's function is to set up the shift that follows; noise is meaningful here because silence comes after it. Summarizing the noise or the fitting describes content rather than function.
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Text 1 argues that open-plan offices increase collaboration by removing walls. Text 2 reports that in open-plan offices, face-to-face conversation fell while written messaging rose. The author of Text 2 would most likely respond that Text 1Text 1 argues that open-plan offices increase collaboration by removing walls. Text 2 reports that in open-plan offices, face-to-face conversation fell while written messaging rose. The author of Text 2 would most likely respond that Text 1
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Answer: assumes a form of collaboration that the evidence does not support.assumes a form of collaboration that the evidence does not support.
Text 1's mechanism is more direct interaction, and Text 2 reports that direct interaction fell. The disagreement is about the kind of collaboration claimed, not about cost or the choice of a satisfaction measure.Text 1's mechanism is more direct interaction, and Text 2 reports that direct interaction fell. The disagreement is about the kind of collaboration claimed, not about cost or the choice of a satisfaction measure.
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The report calls the museum's new wing "restrained": bare walls, low lighting, and no signage beyond a single line per object. As used in the text, what does the word "restrained" most nearly mean?The report calls the museum's new wing "restrained": bare walls, low lighting, and no signage beyond a single line per object. As used in the text, what does the word "restrained" most nearly mean?
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Answer: deliberately plaindeliberately plain
Bare walls, low light, and minimal labelling describe an aesthetic choice toward plainness. Nothing in the sentence concerns force, cost, or access.Bare walls, low light, and minimal labelling describe an aesthetic choice toward plainness. Nothing in the sentence concerns force, cost, or access.
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The engineer described the bridge's design as "conservative": every load-bearing element was specified well above the minimum the calculations required. As used in the text, what does the word "conservative" most nearly mean?The engineer described the bridge's design as "conservative": every load-bearing element was specified well above the minimum the calculations required. As used in the text, what does the word "conservative" most nearly mean?
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Answer: built with a wide margin of safetybuilt with a wide margin of safety
The colon explains the word: specifying above the minimum is margin, not politics, cost, or style.The colon explains the word: specifying above the minimum is margin, not politics, cost, or style.
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A chapter about a translator opens with a single sentence she spent four months on, then widens to describe her whole approach to the book. This movement from one sentence to the whole book mainly serves toA chapter about a translator opens with a single sentence she spent four months on, then widens to describe her whole approach to the book. This movement from one sentence to the whole book mainly serves to
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Answer: use a concrete case to introduce a general method.use a concrete case to introduce a general method.
Beginning with a specific instance and widening to the approach is the classic particular-to-general move. No comparison is drawn and no list is given.Beginning with a specific instance and widening to the approach is the classic particular-to-general move. No comparison is drawn and no list is given.
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Text 1 says that anonymous peer review keeps assessments honest. Text 2 reports that reviewers who signed their reviews wrote longer and more specific ones. Taken together, the texts most strongly suggestText 1 says that anonymous peer review keeps assessments honest. Text 2 reports that reviewers who signed their reviews wrote longer and more specific ones. Taken together, the texts most strongly suggest
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Answer: anonymity and accountability may pull review quality in different directions.anonymity and accountability may pull review quality in different directions.
Each text names a benefit the other's arrangement lacks, which is a tension rather than a verdict. Neither text ranks honesty against detail or equates length with quality.Each text names a benefit the other's arrangement lacks, which is a tension rather than a verdict. Neither text ranks honesty against detail or equates length with quality.
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The naturalist calls the moth's coloring "economical": two pigments, arranged so that the wing reads differently from above and below. As used in the text, what does the word "economical" most nearly mean?The naturalist calls the moth's coloring "economical": two pigments, arranged so that the wing reads differently from above and below. As used in the text, what does the word "economical" most nearly mean?
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Answer: achieving much with littleachieving much with little
Two pigments producing two appearances is efficiency of means. The word is not about money, haste, or storage here.Two pigments producing two appearances is efficiency of means. The word is not about money, haste, or storage here.
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An article on flood defenses devotes its final paragraph to a village that declined the proposed barrier and explains why. That paragraph mainly serves toAn article on flood defenses devotes its final paragraph to a village that declined the proposed barrier and explains why. That paragraph mainly serves to
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Answer: qualify the article's case by presenting a reasoned exception.qualify the article's case by presenting a reasoned exception.
An exception given with its reasons narrows a general case without overturning it. Nothing in the description suggests a proof, a summary, or an unrelated new topic.An exception given with its reasons narrows a general case without overturning it. Nothing in the description suggests a proof, a summary, or an unrelated new topic.
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The historian notes that the guild's records are "eloquent" about its finances and silent about its members. As used in the text, what does the word "eloquent" most nearly mean?The historian notes that the guild's records are "eloquent" about its finances and silent about its members. As used in the text, what does the word "eloquent" most nearly mean?
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Answer: highly informativehighly informative
The contrast with "silent" fixes the meaning: the records say a great deal about one subject and nothing about the other. Style, speech, and persuasion are not what the opposition sets up.The contrast with "silent" fixes the meaning: the records say a great deal about one subject and nothing about the other. Style, speech, and persuasion are not what the opposition sets up.
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The curator describes the collection as "uneven": three rooms of exceptional work and two that could belong to any regional museum. As used in the text, what does the word "uneven" most nearly mean?The curator describes the collection as "uneven": three rooms of exceptional work and two that could belong to any regional museum. As used in the text, what does the word "uneven" most nearly mean?
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Answer: inconsistent in qualityinconsistent in quality
The colon supplies the evidence: exceptional rooms next to ordinary ones is variation in quality, not in stability, fairness, or completeness.The colon supplies the evidence: exceptional rooms next to ordinary ones is variation in quality, not in stability, fairness, or completeness.
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An article about a ferry service opens with the timetable as it stood in 1975, then gives the current one, then explains what changed between them. This structure mainly serves toAn article about a ferry service opens with the timetable as it stood in 1975, then gives the current one, then explains what changed between them. This structure mainly serves to
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Answer: establish a contrast that the rest of the article accounts for.establish a contrast that the rest of the article accounts for.
Two states followed by an explanation is a contrast set up for the sake of the account that follows. No preference is expressed and nothing is defined.Two states followed by an explanation is a contrast set up for the sake of the account that follows. No preference is expressed and nothing is defined.
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Text 1 argues that handwriting instruction should be kept because forming letters aids letter recognition. Text 2 reports that children taught letter recognition through tracing on screens performed as well as those taught with pens. The author of Text 2 would most likely say Text 1Text 1 argues that handwriting instruction should be kept because forming letters aids letter recognition. Text 2 reports that children taught letter recognition through tracing on screens performed as well as those taught with pens. The author of Text 2 would most likely say Text 1
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Answer: identifies the right mechanism but ties it to the wrong medium.identifies the right mechanism but ties it to the wrong medium.
Text 2 accepts that forming letters aids recognition — that is what tracing is — but shows it need not be done with a pen. It disputes the medium, not the mechanism or its importance.Text 2 accepts that forming letters aids recognition — that is what tracing is — but shows it need not be done with a pen. It disputes the medium, not the mechanism or its importance.
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The biographer writes that the composer's late works are "spare": a single line where the early symphonies would have carried four. As used in the text, what does the word "spare" most nearly mean?The biographer writes that the composer's late works are "spare": a single line where the early symphonies would have carried four. As used in the text, what does the word "spare" most nearly mean?
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Answer: stripped to essentialsstripped to essentials
One line against four is reduction of means, offered admiringly. "Thin and weak" imports a judgment the comparison does not make, and the other senses do not fit a description of a work.One line against four is reduction of means, offered admiringly. "Thin and weak" imports a judgment the comparison does not make, and the other senses do not fit a description of a work.
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A passage about a flood defense spends its first half on how the barrier was designed and its second half on a storm during which it was tested. The second half mainly serves toA passage about a flood defense spends its first half on how the barrier was designed and its second half on a storm during which it was tested. The second half mainly serves to
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Answer: show the design meeting the conditions it was built for.show the design meeting the conditions it was built for.
A design followed by its test is a demonstration. Nothing in the description suggests criticism, and the storm is presented as the test rather than as a separate event.A design followed by its test is a demonstration. Nothing in the description suggests criticism, and the storm is presented as the test rather than as a separate event.
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Text 1 says that keeping a species register helps conservation by revealing decline early. Text 2 notes that registers depend on volunteer reporting, which is heaviest near towns. Taken together, the texts most strongly suggestText 1 says that keeping a species register helps conservation by revealing decline early. Text 2 notes that registers depend on volunteer reporting, which is heaviest near towns. Taken together, the texts most strongly suggest
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Answer: a register may detect decline unevenly across a region.a register may detect decline unevenly across a region.
Text 1 gives the benefit and Text 2 gives a distribution of effort; together they imply uneven coverage. Neither text calls volunteers unreliable or says decline itself differs by location.Text 1 gives the benefit and Text 2 gives a distribution of effort; together they imply uneven coverage. Neither text calls volunteers unreliable or says decline itself differs by location.
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The report calls the timetable "punishing": eleven stops in nine hours with no scheduled break. As used in the text, what does the word "punishing" most nearly mean?The report calls the timetable "punishing": eleven stops in nine hours with no scheduled break. As used in the text, what does the word "punishing" most nearly mean?
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Answer: extremely demandingextremely demanding
The colon gives the evidence: a dense schedule with no break is demanding. Nothing suggests anyone is being penalised or that enforcement is the issue.The colon gives the evidence: a dense schedule with no break is demanding. Nothing suggests anyone is being penalised or that enforcement is the issue.
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An essay about a disused railway ends by returning to a detail from its opening paragraph, now explained. This ending mainly serves toAn essay about a disused railway ends by returning to a detail from its opening paragraph, now explained. This ending mainly serves to
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Answer: close the essay by resolving something it opened with.close the essay by resolving something it opened with.
Returning to an opening detail with an explanation attached is closure. It is neither a summary of everything nor a new argument.Returning to an opening detail with an explanation attached is closure. It is neither a summary of everything nor a new argument.
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The editor calls the manuscript "dense": three arguments to a paragraph and no illustrations of any of them. As used in the text, what does the word "dense" most nearly mean?The editor calls the manuscript "dense": three arguments to a paragraph and no illustrations of any of them. As used in the text, what does the word "dense" most nearly mean?
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Answer: packed with more than it explainspacked with more than it explains
The colon gives the evidence: many arguments, none developed. That is compression of content, not physical thickness or stupidity.The colon gives the evidence: many arguments, none developed. That is compression of content, not physical thickness or stupidity.
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An article about a lighthouse keeper opens with the sound of the foghorn, returns to it midway, and ends with the day it was switched off. The repeated detail mainly serves toAn article about a lighthouse keeper opens with the sound of the foghorn, returns to it midway, and ends with the day it was switched off. The repeated detail mainly serves to
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Answer: mark the passage of time across the article.mark the passage of time across the article.
A detail that recurs at three points and ends by ceasing is functioning as a marker of chronology. No argument is made and nothing is explained mechanically.A detail that recurs at three points and ends by ceasing is functioning as a marker of chronology. No argument is made and nothing is explained mechanically.
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Text 1 argues that translating poetry requires preserving sound above sense. Text 2 reports that readers of two translations — one preserving sound, one preserving sense — described the sense-preserving version as more moving. The author of Text 2 would most likely say Text 1Text 1 argues that translating poetry requires preserving sound above sense. Text 2 reports that readers of two translations — one preserving sound, one preserving sense — described the sense-preserving version as more moving. The author of Text 2 would most likely say Text 1
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Answer: assumes a priority readers do not share.assumes a priority readers do not share.
Text 2 does not deny that sound matters; it reports that when the two compete, readers preferred sense. That contests the ordering Text 1 asserts, not the value of sound.Text 2 does not deny that sound matters; it reports that when the two compete, readers preferred sense. That contests the ordering Text 1 asserts, not the value of sound.
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The historian describes the settlement's layout as "legible": a stranger arriving at any gate could find the market without asking. As used in the text, what does the word "legible" most nearly mean?The historian describes the settlement's layout as "legible": a stranger arriving at any gate could find the market without asking. As used in the text, what does the word "legible" most nearly mean?
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Answer: easily understood from withineasily understood from within
The evidence is a stranger navigating unaided, which is comprehension of a place rather than of writing. The word is being used by analogy to reading, and the analogy is the point.The evidence is a stranger navigating unaided, which is comprehension of a place rather than of writing. The word is being used by analogy to reading, and the analogy is the point.
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A passage about a river restoration devotes its opening to the river as it was in 1990, and everything after to the work done since. This structure mainly serves toA passage about a river restoration devotes its opening to the river as it was in 1990, and everything after to the work done since. This structure mainly serves to
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Answer: give the later work a baseline to be measured against.give the later work a baseline to be measured against.
A prior state placed before an account of change is a baseline. The passage is described as covering work, not techniques or species lists, and makes no argument against intervention.A prior state placed before an account of change is a baseline. The passage is described as covering work, not techniques or species lists, and makes no argument against intervention.
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Text 1 says that keeping bees in cities supports pollination. Text 2 notes that managed honeybees compete with wild pollinators for the same limited flowers. Taken together, the texts most strongly suggestText 1 says that keeping bees in cities supports pollination. Text 2 notes that managed honeybees compete with wild pollinators for the same limited flowers. Taken together, the texts most strongly suggest
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Answer: urban beekeeping may help one kind of pollinator at the expense of another.urban beekeeping may help one kind of pollinator at the expense of another.
Text 1 gives a benefit and Text 2 a cost falling on a different group; together that is a trade-off. Neither text calls for a ban or ranks the two kinds of pollinator.Text 1 gives a benefit and Text 2 a cost falling on a different group; together that is a trade-off. Neither text calls for a ban or ranks the two kinds of pollinator.
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The guide describes the harbour wall as "forgiving": beginners misjudge the approach constantly and nothing is damaged. As used in the text, what does the word "forgiving" most nearly mean?The guide describes the harbour wall as "forgiving": beginners misjudge the approach constantly and nothing is damaged. As used in the text, what does the word "forgiving" most nearly mean?
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Answer: tolerant of mistakestolerant of mistakes
The colon supplies the evidence: errors happen and cause no harm. The word is describing what the wall does to mistakes, not its shape or its condition.The colon supplies the evidence: errors happen and cause no harm. The word is describing what the wall does to mistakes, not its shape or its condition.
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An essay on urban trees gives four paragraphs to their benefits and one to the cost of maintaining them, then closes by arguing for more planting. The single paragraph on cost mainly serves toAn essay on urban trees gives four paragraphs to their benefits and one to the cost of maintaining them, then closes by arguing for more planting. The single paragraph on cost mainly serves to
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Answer: make the closing argument harder to dismiss.make the closing argument harder to dismiss.
An argument that names its own cost and proceeds anyway is more credible than one that ignores it. The paragraph is a concession in service of the conclusion, not a retreat from it.An argument that names its own cost and proceeds anyway is more credible than one that ignores it. The paragraph is a concession in service of the conclusion, not a retreat from it.
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The reviewer calls the staging "austere": one chair, one lamp, and a bare back wall for the whole play. As used in the text, what does the word "austere" most nearly mean?The reviewer calls the staging "austere": one chair, one lamp, and a bare back wall for the whole play. As used in the text, what does the word "austere" most nearly mean?
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Answer: stripped of ornamentstripped of ornament
The colon lists what is on stage and how little of it there is. That is visual reduction, not personal severity or budgeting.The colon lists what is on stage and how little of it there is. That is visual reduction, not personal severity or budgeting.
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An article about a clock tower opens by describing the view from its top, then spends the rest on the mechanism inside. The opening mainly serves toAn article about a clock tower opens by describing the view from its top, then spends the rest on the mechanism inside. The opening mainly serves to
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Answer: give the reader a reason to care about what follows.give the reader a reason to care about what follows.
An appealing image placed before technical material is doing motivational work. No argument is advanced and no comparison drawn, and the explanation comes later rather than in the opening.An appealing image placed before technical material is doing motivational work. No argument is advanced and no comparison drawn, and the explanation comes later rather than in the opening.
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Text 1 argues that a museum's collection should be displayed in full, because storage keeps objects from the public. Text 2 reports that of one museum's collection, ninety percent is too fragile to be lit for more than a few weeks a year. The author of Text 2 would most likely say Text 1Text 1 argues that a museum's collection should be displayed in full, because storage keeps objects from the public. Text 2 reports that of one museum's collection, ninety percent is too fragile to be lit for more than a few weeks a year. The author of Text 2 would most likely say Text 1
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Answer: proposes something that would destroy what it aims to share.proposes something that would destroy what it aims to share.
Text 2's point is that permanent display would damage most of the objects, so the proposal defeats its own purpose. It does not dispute the value of access or make a claim about storage space.Text 2's point is that permanent display would damage most of the objects, so the proposal defeats its own purpose. It does not dispute the value of access or make a claim about storage space.
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The engineer describes the older design as "honest": every joint is visible and nothing is hidden behind a panel. As used in the text, what does the word "honest" most nearly mean?The engineer describes the older design as "honest": every joint is visible and nothing is hidden behind a panel. As used in the text, what does the word "honest" most nearly mean?
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Answer: showing its own constructionshowing its own construction
The evidence is visible joints and no concealment, which is a property of the object rather than of anyone's character. Nothing suggests the design is ugly or cheap.The evidence is visible joints and no concealment, which is a property of the object rather than of anyone's character. Nothing suggests the design is ugly or cheap.
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A chapter on a printing press gives half its length to a single afternoon in 1455 and the rest to the following fifty years. This proportion mainly serves toA chapter on a printing press gives half its length to a single afternoon in 1455 and the rest to the following fifty years. This proportion mainly serves to
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Answer: mark that afternoon as the turning point the rest follows from.mark that afternoon as the turning point the rest follows from.
Disproportionate space given to a short moment signals its importance. Covering fifty years in the remainder is compression, not a claim that nothing happened.Disproportionate space given to a short moment signals its importance. Covering fifty years in the remainder is compression, not a claim that nothing happened.
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Text 1 says that publishing raw research data lets others check a study's conclusions. Text 2 notes that raw data from human participants often cannot be published without identifying them. Taken together, the texts most strongly suggestText 1 says that publishing raw research data lets others check a study's conclusions. Text 2 notes that raw data from human participants often cannot be published without identifying them. Taken together, the texts most strongly suggest
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Answer: openness and confidentiality can pull against each other in the same study.openness and confidentiality can pull against each other in the same study.
Each text names a value the other's arrangement compromises, which is a tension. Neither concludes that such research should stop or that the risk is negligible.Each text names a value the other's arrangement compromises, which is a tension. Neither concludes that such research should stop or that the risk is negligible.
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The guide describes the path as "generous": two people can walk abreast the whole way, and there are benches every quarter mile. As used in the text, what does the word "generous" most nearly mean?The guide describes the path as "generous": two people can walk abreast the whole way, and there are benches every quarter mile. As used in the text, what does the word "generous" most nearly mean?
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Answer: amply providedamply provided
Width and frequent benches describe how much the path provides. The word is not about anyone's character or the cost of upkeep here.Width and frequent benches describe how much the path provides. The word is not about anyone's character or the cost of upkeep here.
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An essay arguing for wider sidewalks devotes a paragraph to a street where widening them removed parking and local shops objected. That paragraph mainly serves toAn essay arguing for wider sidewalks devotes a paragraph to a street where widening them removed parking and local shops objected. That paragraph mainly serves to
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Answer: strengthen the argument by showing it has met its hardest case.strengthen the argument by showing it has met its hardest case.
An argument that names the strongest objection and continues is more credible than one that ignores it. Nothing in the description suggests the essay changes position.An argument that names the strongest objection and continues is more credible than one that ignores it. Nothing in the description suggests the essay changes position.
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