SSAT Upper Level Admissions Exam Prep

Explanation
The word "halcyon" refers to a period of peace, tranquility, and prosperity. "Bucolic" is a suitable synonym for "halcyon" as it also represents a peaceful and idyllic rural setting. "Agitation," "degradation," and "facile" do not convey the same meaning and are therefore not synonyms for "halcyon."

Explanation
The word "libidinous" means having strong sexual desires or being lustful. Similarly, the word "lascivious" means expressing or arousing sexual desire. Therefore, the correct answer is "Sensual:lascivious" as both words are synonyms and convey the same meaning of being sexually suggestive or arousing.

Explanation
The word "flecked" means to have small spots or specks, while "mottled" means to have irregular spots or blotches. Both words describe a pattern or appearance that is not uniform or solid in color. Therefore, "flecked" and "mottled" are synonyms, making this the correct answer.

Explanation
The correct answer is "Disparaging" because the word "besmirch" means to tarnish or damage someone's reputation. Therefore, if the man made besmirch remarks, it implies that his remarks were derogatory or critical, aimed at belittling or insulting someone.

Explanation
The correct answer is "Embellished." Varnishing wood is a process of applying a protective and glossy coating to enhance its appearance. By varnishing the woods, the art expert enhanced their beauty and possibly added a layer of protection.

Explanation
The word "stupefy" means to make someone unable to think or feel properly, often by shocking or confusing them. An antonym for stupefy would be a word that means to invigorate or energize someone. "Enliven" fits this description as it means to make someone or something more lively or animated.

Explanation
To be quixotic means to have extravagant and idealistic ideas or actions, often in pursuit of an unreachable goal. This aligns with the meaning of "dreamy," as it implies being lost in one's own fantasies or impractical ideas. Being quixotic and dreamy both suggest a tendency to pursue unrealistic or fanciful notions.

Explanation
Sardonic is the antonym for vitriolic because while vitriolic means bitter and harsh in tone, sardonic means mocking and sarcastic. These two words have opposite meanings as vitriolic expresses anger and criticism, whereas sardonic expresses humor and mockery. Therefore, sardonic is the correct antonym for vitriolic.

Explanation
When a place is described as "raucous," it means that it is noisy, lively, and disorderly. This suggests that there is a lot of commotion and activity happening in the place, which may be due to people talking loudly, music playing, or other loud sounds. The term "raucous" implies a lack of calm or quietness, making it the opposite of "quietened." "Decadent" refers to a state of moral or cultural decline, which is unrelated to the level of noise or liveliness in a place. "Upheaved" means to be disturbed or disrupted, but it does not necessarily imply noise or disorder. Therefore, "raucous" is the most appropriate term to describe a place that is rambunctious.

Explanation
An antonym for "quip" would be a word that has the opposite meaning. While "banter" and "gag" are related to making jokes or witty remarks, "astound" means to amaze or surprise. On the other hand, "flatter" means to praise or compliment someone, which is the opposite of making a sarcastic or clever remark like a quip. Therefore, "flatter" is the correct antonym for quip.