1.
What happened _______ their car broke down on the motorway so they didn’t get to Jo’s wedding
Correct Answer
C. Was that
Explanation
The correct answer is "was that". This phrase is used to explain or give a reason for what happened. In this case, it suggests that the reason they didn't get to Jo's wedding was because their car broke down on the motorway.
2.
The restaurant is popular with film stars and the _______.
Correct Answer
A. Like
Explanation
The sentence suggests that the restaurant is popular with film stars and also with a certain group of people. The word "like" is the most suitable option here as it indicates that the restaurant is popular with a group of people who are similar to film stars in some way, such as being celebrities or having a similar status.
3.
I'm sorry to _______, but did you happen to mention the same “Fiona”?
Correct Answer
A. Butt in
Explanation
The correct answer is "butt in". This phrase means to interrupt or intrude into a conversation or situation without being invited or welcomed. In the given sentence, the speaker is apologizing for interrupting or intruding, and asking if the person they interrupted was talking about the same "Fiona".
4.
John was _______ something under his breath, but I didn’t catch what he said.
Correct Answer
B. Muttering
Explanation
John was muttering something under his breath, indicating that he was speaking quietly and in a low tone. Although the exact words he said were not audible, it suggests that he was expressing his thoughts or feelings in a mumbled or indistinct manner.
5.
Don’t take it as _______ that you’ll be promoted in your job; other colleagues stand a good chance too.
Correct Answer
C. Read
Explanation
The word "read" is the correct answer because it means to assume or understand something in a certain way. In this context, it suggests that one should not assume or take for granted that they will be promoted in their job, as other colleagues also have a good chance of being promoted.
6.
A common cause of _______ is the use of untreated water in preparation for foods, which is quite common in certain underdeveloped countries.
Correct Answer
D. Dysentery
Explanation
Dysentery is a common cause of gastrointestinal illness, characterized by inflammation of the intestines, resulting in severe diarrhea with blood and mucus in the stool. The use of untreated water in food preparation is a common practice in underdeveloped countries, where access to clean water is limited. Consuming contaminated food or water can lead to the transmission of bacteria, parasites, or viruses that cause dysentery. Therefore, dysentery is the most likely explanation for the symptoms described in the question.
7.
The police promised him _______ from prosecution if he co-operated with them fully.
Correct Answer
C. Immunity
Explanation
The word "immunity" in this context means exemption from prosecution or punishment. The police promised the person that if he fully cooperated with them, he would be protected from any legal consequences. This suggests that the person would not be held accountable for any wrongdoing or illegal activities he may have been involved in, as long as he provided full cooperation to the police.
8.
Public television stations are different from commercial stations _______.
Correct Answer
C. In the areas of funding and programming
Explanation
Public television stations are different from commercial stations in the areas of funding and programming. This means that they receive money differently and have different types of shows compared to commercial stations. Public television stations often rely on government funding and donations from viewers, while commercial stations generate revenue through advertising. Additionally, public television stations tend to focus on educational and non-profit programming, while commercial stations prioritize entertainment and profit-driven content.
9.
I don’t think it would be wise to try to make Max change his mind about divorcing Barbara. Well, in his place I _______ her at all.
Correct Answer
A. Would never have married
Explanation
In this context, the speaker is expressing their belief that it would not be wise to convince Max to change his mind about divorcing Barbara because, if they were in Max's position, they would have never married her in the first place.
10.
Once known as the “Golden State” because of its gold mines, ________________.
Correct Answer
A. North Carolina today mines few metallic minerals
Explanation
The given answer "North Carolina today mines few metallic minerals" is correct because it directly states that currently, there is a low level of metallic mineral mining in North Carolina. This explanation is supported by the information given in the question, which mentions that North Carolina was once known as the "Golden State" due to its gold mines. Therefore, the answer reflects the contrast between the past and present mining activities in the state.
11.
Charles Babbage’s “difference engine” is widely regarded as the _______ of modern computers.
Correct Answer
B. Precursor
Explanation
The correct answer is "precursor". Charles Babbage's "difference engine" is widely regarded as the precursor of modern computers. This means that the "difference engine" served as an early model or prototype that laid the foundation for the development of modern computers.
12.
According to psychiatrists, many violent criminals harbor a feeling of _______ and insecurity.
Correct Answer
C. Inadequacy
Explanation
Psychiatrists have found that many violent criminals often have a deep-seated feeling of inadequacy and insecurity. This feeling of inadequacy can stem from various factors such as low self-esteem, a lack of confidence, or unresolved psychological issues. These individuals may resort to violence as a means to compensate for their perceived inadequacies or to assert control over others. Understanding this underlying feeling of inadequacy is crucial in addressing and preventing violent behavior.
13.
It must be true. I heard it straight from the _______ mouth.
Correct Answer
B. Horse's
Explanation
The phrase "I heard it straight from the horse's mouth" is a common idiom that means the information is coming directly from a reliable source. In this context, the correct answer is "horse's" because it fits the idiom and implies that the information is trustworthy and accurate.
14.
I am fully prepared for my interview and I am confident that I can answer any questions they may care to _________ me.
Correct Answer
A. Throw at
Explanation
The phrase "throw at" in this context means to ask difficult or challenging questions. The sentence suggests that the person is well-prepared and confident in their ability to answer any question that the interviewer may ask.
15.
I’m afraid we have _______ a lot of criticism over our decision to close the hospital.
Correct Answer
A. Come in for
Explanation
The phrase "come in for" means to receive or be subjected to something, typically criticism or blame. In this context, the sentence is saying that the speaker's decision to close the hospital has received a lot of criticism.
16.
She was unaware that she had been under _______ since her arrival.
Correct Answer
D. Surveillance
Explanation
The correct answer is "surveillance". The sentence suggests that the person mentioned was not aware that she had been under surveillance since her arrival. Surveillance refers to the act of closely monitoring someone or something, usually for the purpose of gathering information or ensuring security.
17.
The saucepan fell onto the floor with a great _______.
Correct Answer
A. Clatter
Explanation
The word "clatter" is the correct answer because it accurately describes the sound made when a saucepan falls onto the floor. It suggests a loud and abrupt noise, which is commonly associated with objects falling and hitting a hard surface.
18.
I thought that Wendy’s action was rather out of _______.
Correct Answer
B. Character
Explanation
Wendy's action being described as "rather out of character" suggests that her behavior was unexpected or inconsistent with her usual traits or patterns of behavior. It implies that her action was not in line with her typical personality or the way she typically behaves, indicating that it was unusual or surprising.
19.
The planes were delayed and the hotel was awful, but _______ we still had a good time.
Correct Answer
B. By the same token
Explanation
This phrase is used to suggest that despite the negative circumstances mentioned (planes being delayed and the hotel being awful), the speaker or group still managed to have a good time. It implies that the negative aspects did not prevent them from enjoying themselves.
20.
Unsalted butter is best for this recipe, but _______ that, margarine will do.
Correct Answer
B. Failing
Explanation
Unsalted butter is considered the best option for this recipe, however, if unsalted butter is not available, margarine can be used as an alternative.
21.
The cat slept peacefully ______ in the long grass.
Correct Answer
B. Nestled
Explanation
The correct answer is "nestled" because it implies that the cat found a comfortable and secure spot within the long grass to sleep peacefully.
22.
Mr. Wright ______ his vegetable garden very carefully.
Correct Answer
A. Tends
Explanation
The word "tends" means to take care of or look after. In the context of the sentence, it suggests that Mr. Wright takes care of his vegetable garden with great attention and care. The other options, such as "grows," "maintains," and "attends," do not convey the same level of careful attention and care towards the garden.
23.
She ______ a few clothes into the case and hurried to the airport.
Correct Answer
A. Shoved
Explanation
The word "shoved" is the correct answer because it implies a quick and forceful movement, which aligns with the context of the sentence. The phrase "a few clothes into the case" suggests that she is packing in a hurry, and "shoved" conveys the sense of urgency and haste. The other options, such as "scattered," "piled," and "heaved," do not accurately capture the same sense of quick and forceful action.
24.
Don’t make a(n) ______ decision. Think about it first.
Correct Answer
A. Snap
Explanation
The word "snap" means to make a decision quickly and impulsively, without much thought or consideration. The phrase "Don't make a snap decision" is a common expression advising someone to take their time and think carefully before making a choice. Therefore, the correct answer is "snap" as it fits the context of the sentence and conveys the meaning of making a hasty and thoughtless decision.
25.
The woman was ______ from hospital yesterday only a week after her operation.
Correct Answer
D. Discharged
Explanation
The correct answer is "discharged." In the context of the sentence, the word "discharged" means that the woman was released or allowed to leave the hospital after her operation. This implies that her condition had improved or stabilized enough for her to no longer require hospitalization. "Ejected," "expelled," and "evicted" do not fit the context of a hospital setting and would not be appropriate choices.
26.
Benson had very little interest in the museum. He gave each no more than a(n) ______ glance.
Correct Answer
A. Cursory
Explanation
Benson's lack of interest in the museum is indicated by the fact that he only gave each exhibit a cursory glance. This means that he quickly and casually looked at them without much attention or detail. The other options, transient, temporary, and ephemeral, do not accurately describe the type of glance Benson gave, as they imply a shorter duration or a fleeting nature, whereas cursory implies a lack of depth or thoroughness.
27.
Because so much wheat has been sold to other countries, local supplies are ______.
Correct Answer
B. Depleted
Explanation
The correct answer is "depleted". This means that the local supplies of wheat have been used up or exhausted due to selling a large amount of wheat to other countries.
28.
He was arrested for trying to pass ______ notes at the bank.
Correct Answer
C. Counterfeit
Explanation
The correct answer is "counterfeit" because passing counterfeit notes means attempting to use or distribute fake currency that is not genuine or authorized by the government. Counterfeit notes are created to deceive and appear real, but they are illegal and can lead to criminal charges.
29.
As the sky darkened it soon became obvious that a violent storm was ______.
Correct Answer
A. Imminent
Explanation
The correct answer is "imminent" because the phrase "as the sky darkened" suggests that a storm is approaching. The word "imminent" means about to happen or occur very soon, which fits the context of the sentence. The other options, "instantaneous," "immediate," and "eminent," do not convey the same sense of something impending or about to occur.
30.
Although he was experienced, he was not ______.
Correct Answer
D. Infallible
Explanation
The given question is asking for a word that describes someone who is experienced but not perfect or without faults. "Infallible" means incapable of making mistakes or being wrong, which is the opposite of what the question is asking for. Therefore, "infallible" is the correct answer.
31.
I am ______ my brother is.
Correct Answer
D. Nowhere near as ambitious as
Explanation
The correct answer is "nowhere near as ambitious as". This phrase is used to compare two people or things, emphasizing that the speaker is not as ambitious as their brother. The word "nowhere" indicates a lack or absence of ambition, while "near" suggests a close comparison between the two individuals. The phrase "as ambitious as" is used to establish the level of ambition being compared.
32.
She denied the accusation ______ true. She felt innocent.
Correct Answer
B. Being
Explanation
The correct answer is "being" because it is the present participle form of the verb "be" and is used to indicate an ongoing action or state. In this sentence, "being" is used to show that she denied the accusation as something that was currently true or happening. The other options ("to be," "to being," "of being") do not fit grammatically or contextually in the sentence.
33.
_________, he was determined to continue to climb up the mountain.
Correct Answer
B. Tired as he might feel
Explanation
This sentence suggests that despite feeling tired, he was determined to continue climbing up the mountain. The phrase "Tired as he might feel" implies that he acknowledges his fatigue, but it does not deter him from his goal.
34.
______ to interfere in your affairs but I would like to give you just one piece of advice.
Correct Answer
D. Far be it from me
Explanation
The phrase "Far be it from me" is used to express humility or modesty when giving advice or expressing an opinion. It implies that the speaker does not want to interfere in someone's affairs but feels compelled to offer a piece of advice.
35.
You have cut the material in the wrong place. It ought ______ just here but it wasn’t.
Correct Answer
A. To have been cut
Explanation
The correct answer is "to have been cut". This is because the sentence is expressing a past action that should have been done differently. The phrase "to have been cut" indicates that the cutting should have been completed in the past. The other options ("to be cut", "to have cut", "to cut") do not convey the same meaning of a past action that should have been done differently.
36.
These measures have been ______ in order to increase the company’s profits.
Correct Answer
B. Taken
Explanation
The word "taken" is the correct answer because it implies that specific actions or steps have been implemented in order to increase the company's profits. This suggests a deliberate and purposeful approach, indicating that the measures have been carefully considered and executed. "Carried," "tried," and "done" do not convey the same level of intentionality and planning.
37.
I’ve yet _____ a person as Theo.
Correct Answer
A. To meet as infuriating
Explanation
The correct answer is "to meet as infuriating". This is because the sentence is expressing a comparison between the speaker and Theo, indicating that the speaker has not yet met anyone as infuriating as Theo. The phrase "to meet as infuriating" correctly conveys this meaning. The other options either use incorrect verb forms or do not convey the intended comparison.
38.
Jack: This medicine tastes horrible! ~ Jill: ______, it will cure your cough
Correct Answer
A. Be that as it may
Explanation
Jill's response of "Be that as it may" implies that she acknowledges Jack's complaint about the taste of the medicine but believes that the potential benefits of the medicine outweigh the unpleasant taste.
39.
______ with about fifteen times its weight in air does gasoline allow the carburetor to run smoothly.
Correct Answer
B. Only when mixed
Explanation
The correct answer is "Only when mixed". This means that gasoline allows the carburetor to run smoothly only when it is mixed with about fifteen times its weight in air. This implies that gasoline needs to be mixed with air in order to function properly in the carburetor.
40.
______ are considered humorous is mainly due to his characters’ use of slang.
Correct Answer
A. That Damon Ruyan’s stories