1.
a small amount of money
Correct Answer
C. Pittance
Explanation
A pittance refers to a very small amount of money. It suggests that the amount is insignificant or meager. In the context of the given options, "pittance" is the best fit as it aligns with the description of a small amount of money. "Hand out" means to distribute, "usurp" means to take over or seize, and "change" typically refers to the leftover money after a purchase. However, none of these options convey the idea of a small amount as effectively as "pittance" does.
2.
strong sharp odor
Correct Answer
B. Pungent
Explanation
The word "pungent" is the best choice to describe a strong sharp odor. It implies a strong and intense smell that is often sharp or biting. The other options do not specifically convey the idea of a strong and sharp odor. "Portly" means overweight, "tenacious" means persistent or stubborn, and "stinky" is a colloquial term for something that smells bad, but none of these words capture the specific quality of a strong and sharp odor like "pungent" does.
3.
calm, quiet
Correct Answer
D. Placid
Explanation
The word "placid" means calm and quiet. It is the best fit among the given options as it accurately describes a state of tranquility and peacefulness. "Surly" means bad-tempered, "insidious" means treacherous or deceitful, and "shy" refers to being timid or reserved. None of these words convey the same sense of calmness as "placid" does. Therefore, "placid" is the correct answer.
4.
to hold onto firmly
Correct Answer
D. Tenacious
Explanation
The word "tenacious" means to hold onto something firmly. It accurately describes the action of holding onto something tightly and not letting go. The other options, such as "grip," "grapple," and "grab," also imply holding onto something, but they do not specifically convey the idea of holding onto something firmly or persistently. Therefore, "tenacious" is the most appropriate word that fits the given definition.
5.
large heavy, dignified
Correct Answer
C. Portly
Explanation
The word "portly" means large and heavy, often used to describe someone who is overweight or stout. It also carries a connotation of dignity and importance. Therefore, "portly" is the correct answer as it best fits the given description of being large and heavy, while also implying a sense of dignity. The other options do not capture both aspects of the word "portly".
6.
to take over
Correct Answer
A. Usurp
Explanation
The word "usurp" means to seize power or control without authority or by force. It is often used in the context of taking over someone else's position or authority. In this case, "usurp" is the most appropriate word as it aligns with the meaning of "to take over" and implies an unauthorized or forceful acquisition of power or control. The other options, such as "hog," "dominate," and "bossy," do not convey the same sense of illegitimate or forceful takeover.
7.
hot, humid
Correct Answer
D. Sultry
Explanation
The word "sultry" is the correct answer because it is the best fit to describe the combination of "hot" and "humid" weather conditions. "Sultry" refers to a hot and humid climate, typically associated with tropical regions like Florida and the South. It implies a sense of oppressiveness and discomfort due to the high temperature and moisture in the air. The other words mentioned in the question, such as "pittance" and "Florida," are unrelated and do not provide an appropriate description for the given conditions.
8.
abundant, plentiful
Correct Answer
A. Copious
Explanation
The word "copious" means abundant or plentiful. It is synonymous with the given words "abundant" and "plentiful." "Capacious" means spacious or roomy, "portly" means overweight or fat, and "pungent" means having a strong, sharp smell. Therefore, "copious" is the correct answer because it best matches the meaning of the given words.
9.
to urge on, to pressure
Correct Answer
D. Goad
Explanation
The word "goad" means to urge on or pressure someone. This fits with the given definition "to urge on, to pressure." The other options, "pittance," "portly," and "surly," do not have the same meaning as "to urge on" or "to pressure," so they are not the correct answer.
10.
bad tempered, rude
Correct Answer
B. Surly
Explanation
The word "surly" means bad-tempered and rude. It accurately describes someone who is moody, grumpy, and often responds in a disrespectful or unfriendly manner. Therefore, "surly" is the correct answer that best matches the given description.