1.
Employees who wish to take the day after Thanksgiving as a personal day off _____ to get managerial approval.
Correct Answer
D. Have
Explanation
Employees who wish to take the day after Thanksgiving as a personal day off need to have managerial approval.
2.
Mr. Hernandez _____ to Switzerland on a business trip, but messages can be relayed to him through his secretary, Ms. Constantinople.
Correct Answer
A. Has gone
Explanation
The correct answer is "has gone" because it indicates that Mr. Hernandez is currently in Switzerland on a business trip. The present perfect tense "has gone" is used to describe an action that started in the past and has recently been completed or is still ongoing. This implies that Mr. Hernandez is currently away and messages can be passed on to him through his secretary.
3.
After several days of negotiations, Turner Associates finally made a marketing _____ with Ignatius Imports.
Correct Answer
D. Deal
Explanation
After several days of negotiations, Turner Associates finally made a marketing deal with Ignatius Imports. This indicates that both parties have reached an agreement or understanding regarding their marketing collaboration. A deal implies that terms, conditions, and mutual benefits have been discussed and agreed upon, making it the most suitable option among the given choices.
4.
In Mr. Carter's absence, inquiries should be directed to his _____, Mr. Zimbrowski.
Correct Answer
C. Associate
Explanation
In Mr. Carter's absence, inquiries should be directed to his associate, Mr. Zimbrowski.
5.
Wilson Electronics announced Tuesday that 500 workers will be _____ off next month due to the slumping economy.
Correct Answer
B. Laid
Explanation
The correct answer is "laid". In the given sentence, the phrase "500 workers will be" indicates that a group of employees will be affected. The word "off" suggests that these workers will no longer be employed. The verb "laid off" specifically refers to terminating employees due to economic reasons, making it the most appropriate word choice in this context.
6.
The post office is located _____ the end of the block, next to Charlestown Dry Cleaners.
Correct Answer
B. At
Explanation
The correct answer is "at" because it indicates a specific location. In this case, the post office is located at the end of the block, next to Charlestown Dry Cleaners. "In" would imply being inside the block, "on" would imply being on top of the block, and "along" would imply being alongside the block, none of which accurately describe the location of the post office.
7.
Mrs. Summers complained that the CEO's power-point presentation on the history of modern architecture was _____.
Correct Answer
A. Boring
Explanation
The correct answer is "boring" because it describes the CEO's power-point presentation as dull or uninteresting.
8.
Mr. Hawkins is a hard worker who usually performs quite _____ under pressure.
Correct Answer
C. Well
Explanation
The correct answer is "well" because it is the most appropriate adverb to describe Mr. Hawkins' performance under pressure. It indicates that he performs satisfactorily or competently in such situations.
9.
Because of _____ exceptional durability, IXC chips are in high demand for the new QC operating systems.
Correct Answer
A. Their
Explanation
The correct answer is "their". In this sentence, "their" is used to refer to the durability of the IXC chips. The sentence implies that the IXC chips possess exceptional durability, and because of this durability, they are in high demand for the new QC operating systems.
10.
The Daily Times reports that the bubble has burst on the _____ housing market, sending home prices spiraling sharply downward.
Correct Answer
C. Local
Explanation
The correct answer is "local". In the given sentence, "bubble has burst" and "home prices spiraling sharply downward" indicate a decline in the housing market. Since the sentence mentions "The Daily Times reports", it suggests that the housing market being referred to is specific and related to a particular area. Therefore, the appropriate word to complete the sentence is "local", which means pertaining to a specific area or locality.
11.
Two delays, a thunderstorm and a missed connection combined to make Mr. Cox's cross country flight _____ miserable.
Correct Answer
D. Exceptionally
Explanation
The word "exceptionally" is the correct answer because it means "to a greater degree than usual" or "extraordinarily." In the given sentence, the combination of two delays, a thunderstorm, and a missed connection made Mr. Cox's cross country flight extremely miserable or exceptionally miserable.
12.
"Customers come first" has always been one of the key business _____ at M & M Mortgages.
Correct Answer
B. Principles
Explanation
The correct answer is "principles". In this context, "principles" refers to the fundamental beliefs or values that guide the business practices of M & M Mortgages. This suggests that the company prioritizes the needs and satisfaction of their customers above all else.
13.
_____ clients should be apprised of purchasing arrangements before they commit to a long-term contract.
Correct Answer
A. Prospective
Explanation
Prospective clients should be apprised of purchasing arrangements before they commit to a long-term contract. The word "prospective" means potential or likely to happen in the future. In this context, it implies that clients who are considering entering into a long-term contract should be informed about the purchasing arrangements beforehand. This ensures transparency and allows clients to make an informed decision before committing to the contract.
14.
The Xerxes Corporation plans _____ next year with the opening of branch offices in Zurich, Amsterdam and Tokyo.
Correct Answer
D. To expand
Explanation
The correct answer is "to expand". This is because the sentence is discussing the future plans of the Xerxes Corporation, indicating that they intend to take action in the next year. The phrase "to expand" indicates their intention or purpose of opening branch offices in Zurich, Amsterdam, and Tokyo, suggesting that their plan is to increase their presence and operations in these locations.
15.
_____ heavy rain, this afternoon's baseball game has been rescheduled for Friday.
Correct Answer
A. Due to
Explanation
The correct answer is "Due to". This is because "Due to" is used to indicate the cause or reason for something happening. In this case, the heavy rain is the cause or reason for the rescheduling of the baseball game.
16.
During the meeting, Zeke Grabowski made _____ loud and clear about his position on the firm's proposed acquisition of Penny Pharmaceuticals.
Correct Answer
C. Himself
Explanation
In this sentence, the pronoun "himself" is the correct choice because it refers back to Zeke Grabowski, who is the subject of the sentence. "Himself" is used to emphasize that Zeke made his position on the acquisition clear personally and directly.
17.
To be valid under state law, the contract requires the _____ of the company's CFO as well as its chairman.
Correct Answer
B. Signature
Explanation
In order for the contract to be considered valid under state law, it must have the signature of both the company's CFO and its chairman. The signature serves as a formal indication of consent and agreement to the terms and conditions outlined in the contract. The other options, such as name, autograph, and moniker, do not hold the same legal weight as a signature in validating a contract.
18.
Though not a sworn vegetarian, Health.com Chairman Harold Hopper _____ eats meat.
Correct Answer
B. Seldom
Explanation
The correct answer is "seldom". The sentence states that Harold Hopper is not a sworn vegetarian, implying that he does eat meat, but the word "seldom" indicates that he does so infrequently or rarely.
19.
After speeding to the airport and sprinting across the terminal, the PelCro Corp. executives arrived just _____ time to catch their flight.
Correct Answer
C. In
Explanation
The correct answer is "in". In this context, "in" is used to indicate that the executives arrived just at the right moment or exactly at the time needed to catch their flight.
20.
We cannot overemphasize the _____ of delivering the shipment by no later than noon on Friday the 13th.
Correct Answer
C. Importance
Explanation
The correct answer is "importance." In the sentence, the word "overemphasize" suggests that the speaker wants to stress the significance or value of delivering the shipment by a specific time. The noun form "importance" is the most appropriate choice to convey this meaning.
21.
Mr. Zenter explained that he _____ couldn't justify the capital expenditure required to finance Ms. Ruble's start-up company.
Correct Answer
A. Simply
Explanation
The word "simply" is the correct answer because it is an adverb that fits grammatically in the sentence. It is used to modify the verb "explained" and indicates that Mr. Zenter's explanation was straightforward and uncomplicated. The other options, "simplify," "simple," and "simplicity," do not fit in the sentence grammatically or contextually.
22.
Ms. Mertenson will be unavailable next week _____ you have made a previous appointment.
Correct Answer
B. Unless
Explanation
The word "unless" is the correct answer because it indicates a condition that needs to be met in order for Ms. Mertenson to be available. The sentence implies that Ms. Mertenson will not be available next week unless the person has made a previous appointment.
23.
Channel 2's weather forecasts are more reliable than Channel 7's, because its meteorologists have better credentials and are more _____.
Correct Answer
D. Experienced
Explanation
Channel 2's weather forecasts are more reliable than Channel 7's because its meteorologists have better credentials and are more experienced. This indicates that the meteorologists at Channel 2 have a higher level of expertise and knowledge in their field, which likely translates to more accurate and trustworthy weather forecasts. Their experience suggests that they have been working in the field for a longer period of time, gaining valuable insights and skills that contribute to their reliability.
24.
Rucker Limited's second-quarter earnings were significantly affected by a _____ economy, which has led to rising unemployment and threat of increased inflation.
Correct Answer
D. Stagnant
Explanation
The correct answer is "stagnant". This is because a stagnant economy refers to an economy that is not growing or developing, which is indicated by the rising unemployment and threat of increased inflation mentioned in the question. A stable economy would not have these negative effects, while a rapid or patient economy would imply growth and development, which contradicts the given information.
25.
Since the restaurant had _____ out of lobster, it gave us a discount on prawns and chips.
Correct Answer
A. Run
Explanation
The word "run" fits logically in the sentence as it implies that the restaurant had run out of lobster. This means that they had no more lobster available. As a result, they gave a discount on prawns and chips as an alternative option.
26.
If the intended _____ is not at home, leave notification that the package may be picked up at the post office during regular business hours.
Correct Answer
D. Recipient
Explanation
The correct answer is "recipient." In this sentence, the word "recipient" refers to the person who is supposed to receive the package. If the intended recipient is not at home, a notification is left for them to pick up the package at the post office. The other options, such as "receiver," "receptionist," and "reciprocal," do not accurately convey the meaning of the sentence in this context.
27.
Research director Tom Montgomery said he can't predict when the new arthritis drug will be ready, but he assured the board that his department is _____ making progress.
Correct Answer
C. Definitely
Explanation
The word "definitely" is the correct answer because it fits contextually in the sentence. The sentence states that the research director cannot predict when the new arthritis drug will be ready, but he assures the board that his department is making progress. "Definitely" indicates a strong affirmation or certainty, which aligns with the director's assurance that progress is being made.
28.
Mrs. Hammersmith asked Ms. Cotton to fax her _____ layout for the new advertisement as soon as possible, because deadline was approaching.
Correct Answer
B. Her
Explanation
The correct answer is "her" because Mrs. Hammersmith asked Ms. Cotton to fax "her" layout for the new advertisement. This indicates that Mrs. Hammersmith is referring to her own layout and wants Ms. Cotton to send it to her.
29.
Ms. Griffiths was eliminated as a candidate when she answered yes to the question, "Have you ever _____ anything from a previous employer?"
Correct Answer
A. Stolen
Explanation
Ms. Griffiths was eliminated as a candidate because she admitted to stealing something from a previous employer. This answer is supported by the fact that she answered "yes" to the question, indicating that she has indeed stolen something in the past.
30.
Each employee has an important _____ to play in ensuring the success of our business model.
Correct Answer
B. Part
Explanation
Each employee has an important part to play in ensuring the success of our business model. This means that every employee has a specific role or responsibility that contributes to the overall functioning and achievement of the business model. Each part is crucial and necessary for the success of the model, highlighting the significance of every employee's contribution.
31.
History demonstrates that the most efficient way to grow money is through ______ interest, rather than reinvesting dividends in multiple stocks.
Correct Answer
A. Compound
Explanation
The correct answer is compound. History shows that compound interest is the most efficient way to grow money. Compound interest is the interest that is earned on both the initial investment and any previously earned interest. By reinvesting the interest, the investment grows exponentially over time. This is in contrast to reinvesting dividends in multiple stocks, which may not provide the same level of growth.
32.
There were ominous black clouds in the sky, _____ they took umbrellas with them in case it rained.
Correct Answer
C. So
Explanation
The correct answer is "so" because it indicates a cause-and-effect relationship between the ominous black clouds in the sky and the action of taking umbrellas. The presence of the ominous clouds suggests that it might rain, so they took umbrellas as a precautionary measure.
33.
Ms. Balfour is a talented singer and songwriter, but playing piano is her ____________.
Correct Answer
C. Specialty
Explanation
Ms. Balfour is a talented singer and songwriter, but playing piano is her specialty. This means that while she may have many skills and talents, playing the piano is the area where she excels the most. It is her area of expertise and the field in which she has the most knowledge and ability.
34.
The CEO of VitaTech announced that the company's fourth quarter earnings forecast will be _________ to the press today.
Correct Answer
D. Released
Explanation
The word "released" is the correct answer because it implies that the CEO will make the company's fourth quarter earnings forecast available or accessible to the press. This suggests that the information will be shared or distributed to the media for public consumption. The other options, "published," "exchanged," and "demoted," do not accurately convey the act of making the forecast known to the press.
35.
The waiter did not deliver our _______ drinks until long after the appetizers had been eaten.
Correct Answer
B. Requested
Explanation
The correct answer is "requested" because it implies that the customers asked or ordered for their drinks to be brought to them. The word "requested" indicates that the customers made a specific demand or request for their drinks, which suggests that the waiter was delayed in fulfilling their request.
36.
Some workers still need _______ of the rules pertaining to common courtesy among colleagues in the workplace.
Correct Answer
A. To be reminded
Explanation
The correct answer is "to be reminded" because it correctly completes the sentence and conveys the idea that certain workers still require someone to remind them about the rules of common courtesy among colleagues in the workplace. The phrase "to be reminded" indicates that these workers need someone else to bring the rules to their attention again.
37.
________ Mr. Crowder and Ms. Brighton, the manager suggests that we hire the one with the most experience.
Correct Answer
B. Between
Explanation
The correct answer is "Between". In this context, "between" is used to indicate a comparison or choice between two individuals, Mr. Crowder and Ms. Brighton. The manager suggests hiring the one with the most experience, implying that there is a comparison being made between the two candidates.
38.
When they are competing against brand-name chains, stores relying ________ on word-of-mouth referrals should consider purchasing a print advertisement.
Correct Answer
C. Solely
Explanation
When stores are competing against brand-name chains, relying solely on word-of-mouth referrals may not be enough to attract customers. Therefore, purchasing a print advertisement can be a beneficial strategy to increase visibility and reach a wider audience.
39.
Mr. Reynolds _____ his secretary, Miss Stamolis, to pick up his dry cleaning by promising to give her Friday afternoon off.
Correct Answer
C. Got
Explanation
In this sentence, the word "got" is the correct answer. The sentence implies that Mr. Reynolds obtained his secretary's agreement or permission to pick up his dry cleaning by promising to give her Friday afternoon off. The word "got" is commonly used to indicate obtaining or receiving something, in this case, the secretary's agreement.
40.
Vacation request forms must be submitted to Ms. Hykoles in Human Resources _____ 5 p.m. Thursday.
Correct Answer
B. By
Explanation
The correct answer is "by". In this context, "by" indicates the deadline or the latest time at which the vacation request forms should be submitted. It implies that the forms should be submitted before 5 p.m. on Thursday.
41.
Carl Perry245 Pike St., #23Tacoma, WA 98555Dear Mr. Perry:Seasons Greetings! As a _______ customer, we wanted you to be among the first to know about our upcoming holiday sale. All copy paper, printing ink, and general office supplies will be reduced by 50% for the month of December.
Correct Answer
B. Valued
Explanation
The correct answer is "valued". In the letter, the company addresses Mr. Perry as a "valued" customer, indicating that they highly appreciate his business. This word choice suggests that Mr. Perry is important to the company and they want to prioritize informing him about their holiday sale.
42.
As is our tradition at Office Junction, we will be having a Christmas raffle. This year the grand prize is a 2-night stay for two at the Buena Vista Hotel _______ Camano Island. The winner will receive a free double-occupancy stay in the penthouse suite, as well as a free dinner on the moonlit patio.
Correct Answer
B. On
Explanation
The correct answer is "on". In this context, "on" is used to indicate a specific date or time when the 2-night stay will take place. The phrase "on Camano Island" suggests that the stay will occur at the Buena Vista Hotel located on Camano Island.
43.
Money from ticket sales will be _______ to The Holiday Fund, a local organization that provides food and clothing to those who need it most this Christmas.
Correct Answer
B. Donated
Explanation
The correct answer is "donated" because it implies that the money from ticket sales will be given or contributed to The Holiday Fund, a local organization that provides food and clothing to those in need during Christmas. This suggests that the money will be used to support the cause and help those who require assistance.
44.
MemoVALUE EMPORIUMMEMORANDUMTO: Sales StaffFROM: Management A.W.DATE: October 9th, 2009SUBJECT: Flyer misprintThis is to alert you to a misprint in an advertisement for our store in this week's local newspaper. The ad states that on Saturday all men's footwear is on sale for 55% percent off rather _______ 15% off.
Correct Answer
B. Than
Explanation
The correct answer is "than". The sentence is comparing the discount of 55% off with the discount of 15% off. "Than" is used to indicate the comparison between two things or quantities.
45.
If customers ask about this sale, please _______ and explain the printing error. Offer them an additional 5% off coupon to thank them for coming into our store. The coupon can be given out even if the customer decides not to purchase any shoes, and can be applied to any purchase made in the store.
Correct Answer
A. Apologize
Explanation
The correct answer is "apologize" because the sentence is instructing someone to apologize to customers who ask about the sale and explain the printing error. The additional 5% off coupon is offered as a gesture of gratitude to the customers for visiting the store, regardless of whether they make a purchase or not.
46.
_______ you encounter any customers who have the ad with them and demand to receive the 55% discount, please call a manager to the sales floor. These cases will be handled on an individual basis.
Correct Answer
C. If
Explanation
The word "If" is the correct answer because it is used to introduce a conditional clause in the sentence. It suggests that in the event that customers have the ad with them and demand the 55% discount, the appropriate action is to call a manager to the sales floor. This indicates that the discount will only be given under specific circumstances, highlighting the conditional nature of the situation.
47.
E-mail
To: [email protected]
From: [email protected]
Re: Missing Invoice
Dear Stone Blair,
I'm not certain that you are the person I need to address, but the help desk operator at Autotech forwarded me _______ e-mail address. It is now midmonth, and Microserve has still not received a March invoice from Autotech.
Correct Answer
B. Your
Explanation
The correct answer is "your". The sender of the email is addressing Stone Blair, who is presumably the person responsible for handling invoices at Autotech. The sender is expressing their uncertainty about whether Stone Blair is the correct person to contact, but they were provided with Stone Blair's email address by the help desk operator at Autotech. They then go on to explain that Microserve has not yet received a March invoice from Autotech.
48.
We ________ receive an electronic invoice on the first of the month, and a reminder notice approximately half way through the month. Neither of these has been received; therefore, I assume the bill has not been issued.
Correct Answer
A. Generally
Explanation
The word "generally" implies that the speaker usually receives an electronic invoice on the first of the month and a reminder notice halfway through the month. However, in this particular instance, they have not received either of these, leading them to assume that the bill has not been issued.
49.
It is particularly important that we sort out this error before May first. We are a small company that submits tax forms twice a year, and we must include this information as part of our _________. As the accountant of Microserve, it is my duty to submit all invoices related to spending to our head office by May 3rd at the latest.
Correct Answer
B. Expenses
Explanation
The correct answer is "expenses" because the sentence mentions that the accountant needs to submit all invoices related to spending. "Expenses" refers to the money spent by the company, which is a crucial part of the tax forms that need to be submitted.
50.
Letter
Accu-Counting Inc.
1777 Second Ave. S, Denver, CO 44555
Tel: (206) 295-1829
May 5th, 2011
Rachel Carson
9154 Penny Lane
Denver, CO 44556
Dear Ms. Carson:
We __________ your application for our advertised accounting position at Accu-Counting Inc. Based on your qualifications, we would like to schedule an interview with you the week of May 12th at our main office, 1777 Second Ave. S.
Correct Answer
D. Have received
Explanation
The letter is written in the past tense ("We __________ your application") and is referring to a previous action of receiving the application. "Have received" is the correct answer because it indicates that the action of receiving the application has already taken place in the past.