Word Choice In Context Quiz

Explanation
By not revealing the identity of Sarah's mother immediately, the author creates suspense and keeps the reader engaged. This technique of withholding information builds anticipation and intensity, making the eventual revelation in the climax more impactful.

Explanation
The word "insubordinate" means not submitting to authority or refusing to obey orders. In this context, Julie's nature was not insubordinate, meaning she was typically obedient and followed the rules. However, despite her usual obedience, she made the decision to defy her own parents for their own good.

Explanation
The correct answer is "intensified" because it indicates that Rita's homework load increased or became more demanding. This increased workload made her have to make a choice between prioritizing her schoolwork or spending time with her friends.

Explanation
The word "steel" is the correct answer because it is a type of metal that is known for its gray color. The sentence suggests that the gray color of the metal door was uninviting, implying that it was dull or unwelcoming.

Explanation
In this passage from "Of Mice and Men," George is expressing his frustration and anger towards his companion, who constantly gets into trouble and causes problems for George. The word "exploded" best fits in the blank because it conveys the intensity and suddenness of George's outburst. He is venting his frustrations and emotions, likely raising his voice and speaking forcefully to express his exasperation with the situation. The word "exploded" captures the anger and intensity of George's emotions in this moment.

Explanation
The verb "wrought" would best replace the bolded original one. This is because "wrought" means to bring about or cause, which fits well with the idea that the characters are actively seeking to destroy those who are weaker than them. The word "wrought" also conveys a sense of intention and purpose, emphasizing the agency of the characters in their actions.

Explanation
The word "personalizes" is the correct answer because it means to make something personal or relate it to oneself. In the given context, Candy internalizes the lesson that the strong will dispose of the weak, which means he takes it personally and applies it to himself. This is evident from his fear that he will no longer be useful at the ranch and therefore no longer welcome, indicating that he sees himself as the weak who will be disposed of.

Explanation
The central concern of Lord of the Flies is the conflict between two competing impulses that exist within all human beings. The word "instincts" best replaces the underlined word because it accurately represents the concept of the competing impulses that drive human behavior. The novel explores the innate instincts of civilization and savagery that exist within the characters, highlighting the tension between these two forces. The word "catalysts" does not fit because it refers to something that causes a change or reaction, which is not the main focus of the conflict in the novel. The words "nations" and "dramas" are unrelated to the central theme of the book.

Explanation
The word "didactic" best fits the tone of the passage because it suggests that the passage is intended to teach a moral or lesson. The passage describes a boy trying to steal a purse but failing and getting kicked by a woman. This event can be seen as a cautionary tale, teaching the reader about the consequences of dishonesty and the importance of empathy and kindness.

Explanation
The phrase "I continued sharpening my razor" best indicates the foreboding tone because it suggests a sense of tension and anticipation. The narrator's focus on sharpening the razor, despite recognizing someone who causes them to tremble, implies that they are preparing for something ominous or dangerous. The act of sharpening the razor can also symbolize a readiness for violence or harm, adding to the sense of foreboding in the scene.