1.
Fast-moving ……. goods, such as fresh food, have to be sold quickly.
Correct Answer
D. Consumer
Explanation
Fast-moving consumer goods, such as fresh food, have to be sold quickly because they are perishable and have a limited shelf life. These goods are typically purchased by individuals for their personal use or consumption. The term "consumer" refers to the end user or customer who buys these goods for their own consumption. Therefore, the correct answer is "consumer".
2.
The Asian consumer really does believe that luxury comes from Europe and must be made there …… the best.
Correct Answer
D. To be
Explanation
The correct answer is "to be." This answer choice is the most appropriate because it completes the sentence structure and maintains the intended meaning. The sentence suggests that the Asian consumer believes that luxury must be made in Europe in order to be considered the best. The phrase "to be" is used to indicate this belief.
3.
The “Made in Italy” label is important but what we are really offering …… a style, and style is an expression of culture.
Correct Answer
A. Is
Explanation
The statement suggests that while the "Made in Italy" label is significant, what is truly being offered is a style, which is an expression of culture. The word "is" is used to convey this idea of offering a style and expressing culture.
4.
Renewing Sanyo’s Japanese licence means that almost half of Burberry’s sales at retail value will continue …… under licence in Asia.
Correct Answer
D. To be produced
Explanation
Renewing Sanyo's Japanese licence means that almost half of Burberry's sales at retail value will continue to be produced under licence in Asia. This implies that the renewal of the licence allows Burberry to maintain the production of their products in Asia, specifically in Japan, where Sanyo is located. This arrangement ensures that a significant portion of Burberry's sales will still be manufactured and distributed in the Asian market under the licence agreement.
5.
Big brands tend to squeeze…… small, independent businesses.
Correct Answer
A. Out
Explanation
Big brands tend to squeeze out small, independent businesses. This means that big brands often dominate the market and push smaller businesses out of competition. They have more resources and power, allowing them to outperform and outlast smaller businesses. This can result in smaller businesses struggling to survive or being forced to close down altogether.
6.
There was a …… on the way to the airport as there was an accident on the freeway.
Correct Answer
B. Delay
Explanation
The word "delay" is the correct answer because it means to cause something to happen at a later time than originally planned, which fits the context of the sentence. The sentence states that there was an accident on the freeway, which suggests that there was a disruption or hold-up in the normal flow of traffic, resulting in a delay in reaching the airport.
7.
If something is ……, it is the best and most likely to bring success and advantage.
Correct Answer
A. Optimum
Explanation
The word "optimum" means the best or most favorable option. It suggests that something is ideal or perfect in terms of achieving success and advantage. Therefore, if something is described as "optimum," it implies that it is the most likely to bring success and advantage.
8.
As the industry faces what may be a prolonged passenger decline, analysts say companies are under greater pressure to …… travelers' concerns.
Correct Answer
D. Address
Explanation
As the industry faces a potential long-term decline in passenger numbers, companies are under increased pressure to acknowledge and deal with travelers' concerns. This means they need to actively listen to and respond to the issues and worries of their customers. By addressing these concerns, companies can show that they care about their passengers' well-being and are committed to providing a safe and satisfactory travel experience.
9.
The psychology of air rage is a new …… of study.
Correct Answer
A. Area
Explanation
The correct answer is "area." In this context, "area" refers to a specific field or domain of study. The sentence suggests that the psychology of air rage is a newly emerging area of study within the field of psychology.
10.
Some air rage incidents are caused by problems which are familiar …… many regular travelers.
Correct Answer
C. To
Explanation
Some air rage incidents are caused by problems which are familiar to many regular travelers. This suggests that the problems are common and well-known among frequent flyers. The word "to" indicates a relationship between the problems and the regular travelers, implying that the regular travelers are aware of these problems and may have experienced them themselves. Therefore, the use of "to" in this context makes the most sense and provides a logical explanation for the given statement.
11.
Ahlberg has long understood that busy executives cannot afford ……time in traffic jams as they try to reach city centre venues.
Correct Answer
B. To waste
Explanation
Ahlberg has recognized the fact that busy executives do not have the luxury of spending extra time stuck in traffic jams while trying to reach city center venues. This implies that Ahlberg understands the importance of minimizing time wasted in traffic and the need for efficient transportation solutions for executives.
12.
Executive do not particularly enjoy getting up at …… to catch an early morning flight.
Correct Answer
A. Dawn
Explanation
Executives do not particularly enjoy getting up at dawn to catch an early morning flight. This implies that executives find it challenging or unpleasant to wake up early in the morning, especially at dawn. Dawn refers to the time when the sun begins to rise, which is typically early in the morning. Therefore, the correct answer is dawn.
13.
…… analysts of the phenomenon blame alcohol, but many people now think that the airlines are at fault.
Correct Answer
B. Most
Explanation
The given sentence talks about analysts blaming alcohol for a certain phenomenon, but many people believe that the airlines are actually responsible. The word "most" is the correct answer because it implies a majority or a large number of people who hold this belief.
14.
If something is ……, it is continuing for too long and therefore boring or annoying.
Correct Answer
B. Interminable
Explanation
The word "interminable" means something that is continuing for too long and is therefore boring or annoying. This word accurately describes the situation described in the question. The other options, "apparent," "intermittent," and "legislative," do not convey the same meaning of something being excessively long and tedious.
15.
There is increasing concern in the US about another cost-cutting ……, which could seriously harm passengers’ health: cabin ventilation.
Correct Answer
A. Exercise
Explanation
The correct answer is exercise. The passage states that there is increasing concern in the US about another cost-cutting measure, which is cabin ventilation. This suggests that the ventilation in airplane cabins may be compromised in order to save money. The word "exercise" does not fit in the context of the passage and is unrelated to the topic of cabin ventilation.
16.
. …… in a quiet neighbourhood in central Da Nang, the local Cao Dai temple is worth a quick visit.
Correct Answer
B. Located
Explanation
The correct answer is "Located". This answer suggests that the Cao Dai temple is situated in a specific location. It implies that the temple can be found in a quiet neighbourhood in central Da Nang.
17.
It is only clearer now that true reform is necessary to……rules and regulations that inhibit competition.
Correct Answer
C. Abolish
Explanation
The word "abolish" means to officially end or get rid of something, in this case, rules and regulations that inhibit competition. The sentence suggests that there is a need for true reform, implying that the current rules and regulations are hindering competition. Therefore, the correct answer is "abolish," as it aligns with the idea of removing or eliminating these inhibiting rules and regulations.
18.
The team achieved a very substantial change in culture by being very clear at the …… that it was creating a new and different culture from the two companies that merged.
Correct Answer
C. Outset
Explanation
The team achieved a very substantial change in culture by being very clear at the outset that it was creating a new and different culture from the two companies that merged. The word "outset" refers to the beginning or start of something, which in this case is the team's effort to create a new culture. By being clear from the outset, they were able to establish a strong foundation for the desired cultural change.
19.
The new computer virus could ……all the data off your hard disk.
Correct Answer
B. Wipe
Explanation
The correct answer is "wipe" because it means to completely remove or delete all the data from the hard disk. This suggests that the new computer virus has the capability to erase or destroy all the information stored on the hard disk, causing a complete loss of data.
20.
They are starting a new…… of negotiations with ABC Steelworks next month.
Correct Answer
B. Round
Explanation
The correct answer is "round". In this context, "round" means a new series or cycle of negotiations with ABC Steelworks. It implies that the negotiations have been ongoing and are now starting again.
21.
Many organizations talk about doing more business electronically, implementing cost-cutting …….and improving efficiency.
Correct Answer
B. Measures
Explanation
The word "measures" fits the context of the sentence because it refers to specific actions or steps that organizations can take to achieve their goals of doing more business electronically, implementing cost-cutting strategies, and improving efficiency. "Methodologies" refers to a set of principles or procedures, which may not necessarily involve specific actions. "Means" and "ways" are more general terms that can encompass a variety of actions or strategies, but "measures" implies a more specific and targeted approach.
22.
The real power …… of the company are its 135 supervisors, each of whom leads a team of up to 50 cleaners.
Correct Answer
B. Players
Explanation
The term "players" is used metaphorically in this context to refer to the supervisors of the company. It suggests that these individuals are actively involved in the success and functioning of the company, similar to how players are crucial to the success of a sports team. The word "players" emphasizes the importance and impact of the supervisors in leading their teams of cleaners.
23.
He looked for a way to get out of the……corporate life by exchanging his time for money.
Correct Answer
B. Conventional
Explanation
The word "conventional" means following traditional or widely accepted norms and practices. In the given sentence, the person is looking for a way to escape the corporate life by exchanging his time for money. This suggests that he is seeking a more traditional or commonly pursued path, rather than exploring unconventional or innovative options. Therefore, "conventional" is the most appropriate word to describe his approach.
24.
Laptops and cell phones are standard …… for all supervisors at SOL.
Correct Answer
B. Equipment
Explanation
The correct answer is "equipment." In the given sentence, it is stated that laptops and cell phones are standard for all supervisors at SOL. The word "equipment" is the most appropriate term to describe laptops and cell phones, as they are tools or devices used for a specific purpose or activity.
25.
AB has approximately 2,500 employees …… in three large call centres…… in cities in South of England.
Correct Answer
C. Working/located
Explanation
The correct answer is "working/located". This is because the sentence is describing the current state of AB's employees and call centres. "Working" is the present participle form of the verb "work", which is used to describe ongoing actions. "Located" is the past participle form of the verb "locate", which is used to describe the current position or whereabouts of something. Therefore, "working/located" accurately describes the current situation of AB's employees and call centres.
26.
To cut costs and increase efficiency, AB is now considering a number of options concerning the location of its call centres.
Correct Answer
B. Concerning
Explanation
The word "concerning" is the correct answer because it is used to indicate that AB is considering various options related to the location of its call centres. It suggests that the options being considered are directly related to or connected with the location of the call centres.
27.
In SOL, its cleaners wear red and yellow jumpsuits that reinforce the company’s …… image.
Correct Answer
A. Upbeat
Explanation
The correct answer is "upbeat". The phrase "red and yellow jumpsuits" suggests a vibrant and lively image, which aligns with the meaning of the word "upbeat". The word "upbeat" typically refers to something positive, energetic, and optimistic, which is likely the image that SOL wants to convey through their cleaners' uniforms.
28.
The company has ……the plans to redevelop the disused car park site.
Correct Answer
B. Finalized
Explanation
The word "finalized" is the correct answer because it means to complete or finish something, which fits the context of the sentence. In this case, the company has completed or finished their plans to redevelop the disused car park site. The other options, "worked," "wrapped," and "winded," do not convey the same meaning of completion or finishing.
29.
Reducing the number of employees is the best way to stay profitable in the current economic …… .
Correct Answer
C. Climate
Explanation
The question is asking for the best way to stay profitable in the current economic climate. The word "climate" in this context refers to the overall economic conditions and trends. Reducing the number of employees can be a cost-cutting measure that helps a company stay profitable in a challenging economic climate.
30.
We often perceive change as a threat to our stability, our self-esteem and our values. It is therefore hardly surprising that the most frequent reaction to change is …….
Correct Answer
B. Resistance
Explanation
Change is often seen as a threat because it disrupts our sense of stability and challenges our self-esteem and values. As a result, the most common reaction to change is resistance. This resistance can manifest in various ways, such as reluctance to adapt, fear of the unknown, or a desire to maintain the status quo. People may resist change because they are comfortable with the current situation or because they fear the potential negative consequences of the change. Overall, resistance to change is a natural response to the perceived threats and challenges that come with it.
31.
Shoppers complained about poor quality …….and high prices.
Correct Answer
A. Merchandise
Explanation
The correct answer is merchandise. The shoppers complained about poor quality and high prices of the products they were purchasing, indicating that they were dissatisfied with the goods being sold. "Merchandise" refers to the products or goods that are sold in a store or business, making it the most appropriate choice to explain the shoppers' complaints.
32.
Business leaders need to …… in mind that change is a natural part of the human condition and introduce change carefully for it to be successful.
Correct Answer
C. Bear
Explanation
Business leaders need to bear in mind that change is a natural part of the human condition and introduce change carefully for it to be successful. This means that they should be aware and accept that change is inevitable and not fight against it. They should also be mindful of the impact that change can have on their employees and stakeholders, and take the necessary steps to ensure a smooth transition. By bearing in mind these factors, business leaders can increase the chances of successful change implementation.
33.
Vendors design their own booths and are encouraged …… creative.
Correct Answer
C. To be
Explanation
Vendors are encouraged to be creative in designing their own booths. This suggests that they have the freedom and flexibility to express their creativity and showcase their unique styles and ideas. By using "to be" in the sentence, it implies that this encouragement is ongoing and continuous, emphasizing the importance of creativity in the vendor booths.
34.
The department store’s steady …… of market share may be because the concept was born in a different era.
Correct Answer
B. Loss
Explanation
The department store's steady loss of market share may be because the concept was born in a different era. This suggests that over time, the department store has been experiencing a consistent decline in its share of the market. The word "loss" indicates a negative trend or decrease in market share, which aligns with the given explanation.
35.
The seating plan has been reorganized to ……new staff.
Correct Answer
A. Accommodate
Explanation
The correct answer is "accommodate." This word means to make adjustments or provide space for someone or something. In the given context, the seating plan has been reorganized in order to provide space or make adjustments for the new staff members.
36.
I received the year’s results yesterday and I am delighted to announce that our company has had …… fantastic year.
Correct Answer
D. Another
Explanation
The correct answer is "another". The use of "another" in this context implies that the company has had a fantastic year before, and this year is just as good as the previous ones. It suggests a continuation of success and positive outcomes for the company.
37.
Last year we had our fifth consecutive…… year of growth with$98 million in net profit.
Correct Answer
A. Consecutive
Explanation
The word "consecutive" means following one after another without interruption. In this context, it means that the company has experienced five years of growth in a row, without any breaks or declines. The fact that they had $98 million in net profit further supports this, as it shows that their growth has been consistent and successful.
38.
Yahoo has strengthened its European…… with the $578m acquisition of Kelkoo, the French-based shopping service.
Correct Answer
B. Presence
Explanation
The correct answer is "presence". In the given context, "presence" refers to Yahoo's establishment and visibility in the European market. The acquisition of Kelkoo, a French-based shopping service, strengthens Yahoo's presence in Europe, indicating that Yahoo will now have a stronger foothold and influence in the European market.
39.
The European online retail market is forecast …… to £116bn in the next three years.
Correct Answer
D. To grow
Explanation
The correct answer is "to grow". This is because the sentence states that the European online retail market is forecast to reach £116bn in the next three years, indicating a future growth in its value. The phrase "to grow" accurately conveys this idea of future expansion.
40.
Wal-Mart yesterday really surprised investors when it …… a strong note of optimism.
Correct Answer
A. Sounded
Explanation
The correct answer is "sounded". In this context, "sounded" means that Wal-Mart expressed or conveyed a strong note of optimism. This implies that Wal-Mart's actions or statements gave the impression of being optimistic, which surprised investors.
41.
Gains in Target’s credit card business, as well as both its Target Stores division and Marshall Field’s stores, …… a small drop in pre-tax profit at Mervyn’s department store chain.
Correct Answer
B. Offset
Explanation
The word "offset" means to counterbalance or compensate for something. In the given sentence, it is mentioned that gains in Target's credit card business, Target Stores division, and Marshall Field's stores offset a small drop in pre-tax profit at Mervyn's department store chain. This means that the gains in these areas helped to balance out or compensate for the drop in profit at Mervyn's department store chain.
42.
It is an excellent business …… if a manager can follow all guidelines and motivate workers to work in a safe environment.
Correct Answer
C. Practice
Explanation
The correct answer is "practice". In the given statement, it is mentioned that the business can be excellent if a manager can follow all guidelines and motivate workers to work in a safe environment. This implies that the key to success lies in implementing and consistently following the best practices in the business operations. By doing so, the manager ensures that the business operates efficiently and safely, which ultimately leads to excellence.
43.
……using a new distributor, our costs fell giving us a gross margin of 40 per cent on our product line.
Correct Answer
D. As a result of
Explanation
The phrase "as a result of" is the correct answer because it indicates that the decrease in costs led to a specific outcome, which is a gross margin of 40 per cent on the product line. It suggests a cause-and-effect relationship between the decrease in costs and the resulting gross margin.
44.
……action by train drivers seriously affected rush-hour services.
Correct Answer
C. Industrial
Explanation
The correct answer is Industrial. This is because the action by train drivers affected rush-hour services, which suggests that it was a problem related to the industrial sector. Commercial, business, and corporate sectors are not typically responsible for train operations, so they are less likely to be the cause of the issue.
45.
Our performance in Italy should improve significantly …… the bankruptcy of our biggest competitor.
Correct Answer
A. Following
Explanation
The correct answer is "following." This is because the phrase "our performance in Italy should improve significantly" indicates a future action or event. The word "following" is used to indicate that this future action or event will occur after the bankruptcy of our biggest competitor.
46.
Improvement in the jobs…… means improvement in state revenues, which in turn may help out Carroll County.
Correct Answer
D. Picture
Explanation
The given answer, "picture," is correct because the statement suggests that improvement in jobs leads to an increase in state revenues, which can benefit Carroll County. The other options, such as image, painting, illustration, do not directly relate to the concept of state revenues and their impact on a specific county. Therefore, "picture" is the most suitable choice.
47.
Target has …… a more upmarket and style conscious image than other discount retailers.
grown
Correct Answer
A. Cultivated
Explanation
The word "cultivated" means to develop or improve something, especially through education or training. In the context of the question, it suggests that Target has intentionally worked on creating a more sophisticated and fashionable image compared to other discount retailers. This implies that Target has put effort into curating a selection of products and designing their stores in a way that appeals to customers who value style and quality.
48.
Unfavorable news stories have appeared …… foreign companies working in the area.
attack
Correct Answer
A. Attacking
Explanation
The correct answer is "attacking" because the sentence is in the present tense and requires a verb that matches this tense. "Attacking" is the present participle form of the verb "attack" and is the correct choice to complete the sentence grammatically.
49.
He let his actions …… his talking for him.
Correct Answer
A. Do
Explanation
The phrase "He let his actions do his talking for him" means that instead of using words, he expressed himself through his actions. In this context, "do" is the most suitable answer as it implies taking action and getting things done rather than just talking about them.
50.
After the war he ….. a gamble on oil rights on a barren stretch of land between Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.
Correct Answer
A. Took
Explanation
The word "took" is the correct answer because it means to undertake or engage in something, such as a gamble. In this context, the person took a gamble on oil rights, indicating that they made a decision or choice to invest in the oil rights on a barren stretch of land between Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.