1.
His attempts to rid his administration of inefficiency were so _______________that he came to called the " reformer by fits and starts".
Correct Answer
A. Unbridled
Explanation
The word "unbridled" means unrestrained or unchecked. In the context of the sentence, it suggests that the person's attempts to eliminate inefficiency in his administration were very intense and unrestricted. This is further emphasized by the phrase "reformer by fits and starts," indicating that his efforts were sporadic and inconsistent. Therefore, "unbridled" accurately describes the level of determination and intensity in his attempts to bring about reform.
2.
The "robber barons" were a group of 19th century captains of industry who amassed wealth by means that a __________________ might use .
Correct Answer
A. Brigand
Explanation
During the 19th century, the "robber barons" were wealthy industrialists who gained their fortunes through unethical and exploitative means, similar to how a brigand, or a bandit, would accumulate wealth. The term "robber barons" implies that these captains of industry engaged in ruthless practices such as monopolizing markets, exploiting workers, and engaging in corrupt business practices to amass their wealth. This comparison suggests that their methods were morally questionable and resembled those of a brigand.
3.
The evidence intended to show that some races or nationalities are superior to others proved to completely ________________.
Correct Answer
A. Spurious
Explanation
The evidence intended to show that some races or nationalities are superior to others proved to be spurious. This means that the evidence was false or misleading, and did not have any real basis or validity. It was likely fabricated or exaggerated, and therefore cannot be trusted or used to support the claim of superiority.
4.
How can you expect to succeed at your new job when you are ______________to believe that is "not right" for you?
Correct Answer
B. Predisposed
Explanation
Being "predisposed" means having a tendency or inclination towards a particular belief or behavior. In this context, if you are predisposed to believe that your new job is "not right" for you, it means that you have a preconceived notion or mindset that the job is not suitable for you. This negative belief can hinder your chances of succeeding because it can affect your motivation, attitude, and overall performance in the job.
5.
The dean ________________ the members of the team for neglecting their homework assignment.
Correct Answer
B. Admonished
Explanation
The word "admonished" means to scold or reprimand someone for their actions. In this context, the dean is expressing disapproval towards the members of the team for neglecting their homework assignment.
6.
The Senator refused to ______________ the floor to any other speaker before had finished his statement.
Correct Answer
B. Relinquish
Explanation
The word "relinquish" means to give up or surrender something. In the context of the sentence, the Senator is refusing to give up or surrender the floor to any other speaker before he has finished his statement. This implies that the Senator wants to maintain control of the floor and does not want to give anyone else the opportunity to speak until he is done.
7.
Instead of trying to _____________ the support of the student body, we must earn it by showing our sincerity and ability.
Correct Answer
A. Commandeer
Explanation
The word "commandeer" means to take control or seize something, usually without permission. In the given sentence, the word "commandeer" is used to convey the idea that instead of forcefully taking or demanding the support of the student body, it is better to earn their support by demonstrating sincerity and ability. The word "admonish" means to scold or warn someone, which does not fit the context of the sentence. Therefore, "commandeer" is the correct answer.
8.
Like the rings, a pebble makes in a pool of water, the good feelings generated by the speech____________ through the crowd.
Correct Answer
A. Disfused
Explanation
The correct answer is "disfused". The word "disfused" means to spread or scatter in all directions. In the context of the sentence, it suggests that the good feelings generated by the speech spread or scattered through the crowd, just like the rings a pebble makes in a pool of water.
9.
Since she is so convinced that there is only one right way - her way -I find her too _________for my liking.
Correct Answer
B. Opinionated
Explanation
The person in question is described as being "too _________ for my liking" because they strongly believe that their way is the only correct way. This suggests that they are not open to considering other perspectives or opinions, making them opinionated.
10.
An economy in which the marketplace is considered "open" is one in which competition is more or less ____________.
Correct Answer
B. Unbridled
Explanation
In an economy where the marketplace is considered "open," competition is more or less unbridled. This means that there are minimal restrictions or regulations on businesses and individuals participating in the market. It allows for free and fair competition, where market forces determine prices, supply, and demand. Without constraints, businesses have the freedom to innovate, enter or exit the market, and compete aggressively. This fosters a dynamic and competitive environment, encouraging efficiency, innovation, and consumer choice.
11.
Is it too much to expect that I will be able to ____________ a few sheds of self-respect from my humiliating failure?
Correct Answer
B. Salvage
Explanation
The word "salvage" means to retrieve or save something from a difficult or hopeless situation. In the given sentence, the speaker is expressing their hope or expectation that they will be able to regain or restore a few shreds of self-respect from their humiliating failure. This suggests that they believe it is possible to salvage or recover some sense of dignity or self-worth despite their failure.
12.
Developing nations in all parts of the world face that _____________ problem of gaining a higher level of economic growth.
Correct Answer
A. Perennial
Explanation
Developing nations in all parts of the world face the perennial problem of gaining a higher level of economic growth. The term "perennial" means something that is enduring, constant, or recurring. In this context, it suggests that the issue of achieving economic growth is a persistent and ongoing challenge for developing nations. It implies that despite efforts and changes, this problem continues to exist and requires long-term solutions.
13.
Thus the nation was faced with ______________ in which either advance or retreat might endanger its vital interests.
Correct Answer
A. Dilemma
Explanation
The word "dilemma" is the correct answer because it refers to a situation in which a difficult choice has to be made between two or more alternatives, both of which may have negative consequences. In this context, the nation is faced with a situation where either advancing or retreating could potentially put its vital interests at risk. Therefore, the nation is caught in a dilemma, having to weigh the potential dangers of both options.
14.
My mother broke the _____________ in the quarrel between my brother and me by saying that neither of us could use the car.
Correct Answer
B. Deadlock
Explanation
In this scenario, the word "deadlock" is the correct answer. A deadlock refers to a situation where two parties are unable to reach an agreement or make progress because of a disagreement or conflict. In the given context, the quarrel between the speaker's brother and themselves created a deadlock situation regarding the use of the car. Their mother's intervention of stating that neither of them could use the car broke the deadlock, as it resolved the conflict by denying both parties access to the car.
15.
For the very reason that we are the most powerful nation in the world, we must be extremely_____________ in our foreign policy.
Correct Answer
A. Circumspect
Explanation
Given the statement that the nation is the most powerful in the world, it implies that the nation holds a significant amount of influence and has a great impact on global affairs. Therefore, it is crucial for the nation to be circumspect in its foreign policy. Being circumspect means being cautious, thoughtful, and considering all possible consequences before making decisions. This is important because any actions taken by the nation can have far-reaching effects, and being circumspect ensures that the nation's foreign policy is carefully planned and executed.
16.
If only I could ______________ the memory of the shock and disappointment on my mother's face.
Correct Answer
B. Efface
Explanation
Efface means to erase or remove completely. In this context, the speaker wishes they could erase or remove the memory of the shock and disappointment on their mother's face. This suggests that the speaker regrets causing their mother to feel this way and wants to forget or undo the negative impact they had on her.
17.
Our city government seems to have ____________ into a first rate financial crisis.
Correct Answer
A. Muddled
Explanation
The word "muddled" means confused or disorganized. Therefore, the correct answer suggests that the city government is experiencing a first-rate financial crisis due to their confusion or lack of organization in managing their finances.
18.
The organization of the government is so ________________ that it is all but impossible to know who is responsible for various activities.
Correct Answer
A. Cumbersome
Explanation
The correct answer is "cumbersome". This word suggests that the organization of the government is complicated, difficult to navigate, and confusing. As a result, it becomes nearly impossible to determine who should be held accountable for different tasks and actions. The adjective "cumbersome" accurately describes the level of complexity and lack of clarity within the government's structure.
19.
After the fatal blaze, the first patrol searched through the _____________ for clues that might reveal the cause.
Correct Answer
A. Debris
Explanation
After a fatal blaze, the first patrol searched through the debris for clues that might reveal the cause. The word "debris" refers to the scattered remains or fragments of something that has been destroyed. In this context, the patrol is looking for any remnants or evidence left behind after the fire to help determine the cause of the blaze. The word "breach," on the other hand, means a violation or breaking of a rule or agreement, which is not relevant to the situation described.
20.
Even Sue's refusal to dance with him did not seem to make a ______________in his gigantic conceit.
Correct Answer
B. Breach
Explanation
The word "breach" means a violation or breaking of a rule or agreement. In this context, it suggests that Sue's refusal to dance with him did not have any effect on his immense arrogance or self-importance. It implies that his conceit was so strong that even a rejection from Sue could not shake it.