1.
Choose the correct definition of exonerate...
Correct Answer
C. To clear; free from guilt or blame
Explanation
Exonerate means to clear someone from guilt or blame. This definition implies that the person being exonerated is proven innocent or found not guilty of a wrongdoing. It is the opposite of convicting or holding someone responsible for a crime or fault. When someone is exonerated, it means that they are absolved of any wrongdoing and their innocence is established.
2.
Choose the correct definition of incompetent
Correct Answer
A. Lacking qualification or ability; incapable
Explanation
The correct definition of incompetent is lacking qualification or ability; incapable. This means that someone who is incompetent does not have the necessary skills or abilities to perform a certain task or job. They are unable to meet the required standards or expectations due to their lack of competence.
3.
Choose the correct definition of benevolently
Correct Answer
D. In a kind or goodhearted manner
Explanation
The word "benevolently" is an adverb that describes an action done in a kind or goodhearted manner. This means that when someone does something benevolently, they are doing it with the intention of being helpful, generous, or showing goodwill towards others. This word is often used to describe acts of charity, compassion, or selflessness.
4.
Choose the correct definition of preposterous
Correct Answer
A. Completely contrary to reason or common sense
Explanation
The correct definition of "preposterous" is "completely contrary to reason or common sense." This means that something is absurd, illogical, or nonsensical. It implies that the idea or statement being described is so unreasonable or irrational that it is difficult to believe or accept.
5.
Choose the correct definition of inconspicuous
Correct Answer
B. Not conspicuous, noticeable, or prominent
Explanation
The correct definition of inconspicuous is not being noticeable or prominent. It refers to something that does not attract attention or is not easily seen or recognized.
6.
Choose the correct definition of dawdle
Correct Answer
D. Delay; waste time
Explanation
The correct answer is "delay; waste time." The word "dawdle" means to take longer than necessary to do something or to waste time. It implies a sense of procrastination or being slow in completing a task.
7.
Choose the correct definition of enthralled
Correct Answer
B. Captivated or charmed
Explanation
Enthralled means to be captivated or charmed by something or someone. It refers to a state of being completely absorbed or fascinated by something, unable to look away or think of anything else. This word is used to describe a strong and intense interest or attraction towards someone or something.
8.
Choose the correct definition of emblazon
Correct Answer
C. To decorate with brilliant colors
Explanation
The word "emblazon" means to decorate something with brilliant colors. It does not refer to burning with fire, clearing from guilt or blame, or acting in a kind or goodhearted manner. The correct definition specifically relates to the act of adorning something with vibrant or striking hues.
9.
Choose the correct definition of gnarled
Correct Answer
B. Having a rugged, weather-beaten appearance
Explanation
The correct definition of "gnarled" is having a rugged, weather-beaten appearance. This means that something is twisted, rough, and worn due to exposure to harsh weather conditions. It typically describes the appearance of trees or branches that have become twisted and knotted over time.
10.
Choose the correct definition of unscathed
Correct Answer
D. Not scathed; unharmed; uninjured
Explanation
The correct definition of "unscathed" is not scathed; unharmed; uninjured. This means that someone or something has not been harmed or injured in any way.
11.
Although she's not personally connected to any of the residents, my aunt benevolently spends much of her free time visiting people at the nursing home who don't have anyone else to look in on them.
What is a synonym for the word benevolently?
Correct Answer
B. Graciously
Explanation
The word "benevolently" means to do something in a kind and generous manner. A synonym for this word is "graciously," which also means to do something in a polite, kind, and generous way.
12.
Great Britain found it preposterous to think that the colonies might be capable of governing themselves.
What is an antonym for the word preposterous?
Correct Answer
A. Sensible
Explanation
The antonym for the word "preposterous" is "sensible." "Preposterous" means something that is absurd or ridiculous, while "sensible" means something that is reasonable or practical. In the given context, Great Britain found it absurd to think that the colonies could govern themselves, indicating that they believed it was not a sensible idea.
13.
The piano appears to have survived the ordeal almost unscathed.
What is a synonym for the word unscathed?
Correct Answer
D. Unscarred
Explanation
The word "unscathed" means to be unharmed or untouched by a particular event or situation. A synonym for this word is "unscarred." This implies that the piano emerged from the ordeal without any damage or marks, indicating that it remained in its original state and was not affected by the incident.
14.
Emblazoned on the back is his squad number - 35.
What is an antonym for the word emblazon?
Correct Answer
A. Hidden
Explanation
The word "emblazon" means to prominently display or decorate something. The antonym for this word would be "hidden," which means to conceal or cover up. In the given context, if something is emblazoned on the back, it is clearly visible and not hidden. Therefore, "hidden" is the correct antonym for "emblazon."
15.
His fear of looking ______________in front of neighbors should get him into action.
Correct Answer
incompetent
Explanation
The correct answer is "incompetent". This word suggests that the person is afraid of appearing incapable or lacking skill in front of their neighbors. This fear should motivate them to take action and prove their abilities.
16.
Let me say at once that Mr. Tipton was completely _________________ in this whole matter by the judge.
Correct Answer
exonerated
Explanation
Mr. Tipton was completely exonerated in this whole matter by the judge. This means that the judge cleared Mr. Tipton of any blame or wrongdoing related to the matter. The judge found him innocent or not responsible for the situation.
17.
I was utterly _____________ by a paperback I read recently.
Correct Answer
enthralled
Explanation
The word "enthralled" means to captivate or completely engage someone's attention. In the given sentence, the speaker is expressing that they were completely captivated or engrossed by a paperback they recently read. This suggests that the book was extremely interesting or captivating to the speaker.
18.
Please do not __________________ on your way to the principal's office.
Correct Answer
dawdle
Explanation
Dawdling refers to the act of wasting time or moving slowly, which is generally not acceptable behavior when heading to the principal's office. The correct answer suggests that one should not engage in dawdling while making their way to the principal's office.
19.
My grandmother's fingers were all ________________ and bent from many years of work at the factory.
Correct Answer
gnarled
Explanation
The word "gnarled" means twisted, knotted, or bent, which perfectly describes the condition of my grandmother's fingers. The use of the word "all" emphasizes that all of her fingers were affected, indicating that her work at the factory had taken a toll on them. The word choice effectively conveys the physical appearance of her fingers, suggesting that they were deformed and contorted due to years of labor.
20.
Shoplifters go out of their way to remain ______________________.
Correct Answer
inconspicuous
Explanation
Shoplifters go out of their way to remain inconspicuous, meaning they purposely try to avoid attracting attention or being noticed while committing their illegal activities. By blending in and not drawing suspicion, they increase their chances of successfully stealing without being caught or identified. This behavior allows them to continue their illegal activities undetected and evade any potential consequences.