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". This is because the sentence is referring to a current action of Mr. Hernandez going to Switzerland on a business trip. The present perfect tense "has gone" is used to indicate an action that started in the past and is still relevant to the present.
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 suggests that the two parties have come to an agreement or arrangement regarding their marketing strategies or partnership. A deal implies a formal agreement that has been reached between the two companies, indicating a successful outcome of the negotiations.
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. This means that Mr. Zimbrowski is someone who is closely connected or working closely with Mr. Carter, and therefore, he is the appropriate person to contact in Mr. Carter's absence.
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". This is because the phrase "500 workers will be laid off" indicates that these workers will be terminated or dismissed from their jobs. The word "laid" is commonly used in this context to describe the act of letting go of employees, especially during difficult economic times.
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 or point in space where the post office is situated. "In" would suggest being inside a larger area, "on" would imply being on top of something, and "along" would indicate moving in the same direction as the block but not necessarily being located at the end of it.
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 Mrs. Summers complained about the CEO's power-point presentation on the history of modern architecture. The word "boring" is an adjective that describes something dull, uninteresting, or lacking excitement. In this context, it suggests that Mrs. Summers found the presentation to be unengaging and not captivating.
8.
Mr. Hawkins is a hard worker who usually performs quite _____ under pressure.
Correct Answer
C. Well
Explanation
The word "well" is the most suitable choice to complete the sentence. It implies that Mr. Hawkins performs satisfactorily or effectively under pressure. The other options, such as "good," "superb," and "excellent," could also be used to describe his performance, but "well" is the most appropriate and commonly used term in this context.
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". This is because the sentence is referring to the exceptional durability of IXC chips, indicating that the chips possess this quality. Therefore, the pronoun "their" is used to show ownership or possession by the chips.
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, "local" is the appropriate word to describe the housing market. It indicates that the bubble has burst specifically in the area or region being referred to, causing a significant decline in home prices.
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 an unusually high degree or extent. In the given sentence, the two delays, thunderstorm, and missed connection all combined to make Mr. Cox's cross country flight extremely or unusually 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 actions and decisions of M & M Mortgages. It suggests that the company prioritizes its customers and places them at the forefront of its business operations.
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 suggests that clients who are considering entering into a long-term contract should be informed about the purchasing arrangements beforehand. This ensures that they have all the necessary information and can 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" because it is the infinitive form of the verb and correctly completes the sentence by indicating the future plans of the Xerxes Corporation. The infinitive form is used to express purpose or intention, which aligns with the company's plan to open branch offices in Zurich, Amsterdam, and Tokyo.
15.
_____ heavy rain, this afternoon's baseball game has been rescheduled for Friday.
Correct Answer
A. Due to
Explanation
The phrase "Due to" is used to indicate the reason or cause of something. In this case, it is explaining that the baseball game has been rescheduled for Friday because of the heavy rain.
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
The correct answer is "himself". In this sentence, Zeke Grabowski is the subject and is referring to his own actions or statements. Therefore, the reflexive pronoun "himself" is used to indicate that Zeke made his position clear.
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 a contract to be valid under state law, it needs the signature of the company's CFO as well as its chairman. A signature is a person's name written in their own handwriting, which serves as a formal indication of their agreement or endorsement. The other options, such as name, autograph, and moniker, do not specifically refer to the act of signing one's name, making them incorrect choices.
18.
Though not a sworn vegetarian, Health.com Chairman Harold Hopper _____ eats meat.
Correct Answer
B. Seldom
Explanation
The phrase "Though not a sworn vegetarian" suggests that Harold Hopper does not completely avoid eating meat. However, the word "seldom" indicates that he rarely consumes meat, implying that he only does so on rare occasions or in small quantities. This aligns with the idea that he is not a strict vegetarian but still does not frequently include meat in his diet.
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 word "in" is the correct answer because it indicates that the PelCro Corp. executives arrived just in time to catch their flight. "In" is commonly used to express that something happens at the exact moment or within a specific period. In this context, it implies that the executives arrived at the airport at the precise moment required 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 this sentence, the speaker is emphasizing the significance or importance of delivering the shipment by a specific time. The word "importance" fits grammatically and contextually in the sentence.
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 use of the word "simply" in this context suggests that Mr. Zenter found it easy or straightforward to explain why he couldn't justify the capital expenditure. It implies that there was no complexity or difficulty in his explanation.
22.
Ms. Mertenson will be unavailable next week _____ you have made a previous appointment.
Correct Answer
B. Unless
Explanation
The correct answer is "unless." This conjunction is used to introduce a condition that must be met in order for something to happen. In this case, it means that Ms. Mertenson will be unavailable next week unless you have 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. The word "experienced" suggests that the meteorologists at Channel 2 have a greater amount of knowledge and practical skill in their field. This implies that they have spent a significant amount of time working and gaining expertise in weather forecasting, making their forecasts more trustworthy.
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 can lead to rising unemployment and the threat of increased inflation.
25.
Since the restaurant had _____ out of lobster, it gave us a discount on prawns and chips.
Correct Answer
A. Run
Explanation
The correct answer is "run". The word "run" suggests that the restaurant had run out of lobster, meaning they no longer had any available. This resulted in the restaurant offering a discount on prawns and chips as an alternative option for the customers.
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 context, the word "recipient" refers to the person who is intended 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.
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 is an adverb that means without a doubt or certainly. In the given sentence, it emphasizes that the research director is confident and certain about the progress being made in his department. The other options, "definite," "definition," and "definably," do not fit in the context of the sentence and do not convey the same meaning as "definitely."
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. The possessive pronoun "her" is used to indicate that the layout belongs to Mrs. Hammersmith.
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 correct because "stolen" is the past participle form of the verb "steal," which accurately describes the action of taking something without permission.
30.
Each employee has an important _____ to play in ensuring the success of our business model.
Correct Answer
B. Part
Explanation
In this sentence, the word "part" fits logically and grammatically. It implies that each employee has a role or responsibility to fulfill in order to contribute to the success of the business model. The word "work" could also fit, but it is less specific and does not convey the idea of a specific role or responsibility. "Piece" and "area" do not make sense in the context of the sentence.
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
Compound interest refers to the interest that is calculated on both the initial principal and the accumulated interest from previous periods. It allows for exponential growth of money over time. In contrast, reinvesting dividends in multiple stocks may provide some growth, but it is not as efficient as compound interest. Therefore, compound interest is the most efficient way to grow money, as history has shown.
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 black clouds led to the decision to take umbrellas as a precautionary measure in case it rained.
33.
Ms. Balfour is a talented singer and songwriter, but playing piano is her ____________.
Correct Answer
C. Specialty
Explanation
The given sentence states that Ms. Balfour is talented in singing and songwriting, but it does not mention any other specific skill. Therefore, the word "specialty" fits well in the sentence as it refers to a particular area of expertise or focus, indicating that playing the piano is her specific skill or area of specialization.
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 correct answer is "released" because when a CEO announces something to the press, it means that the information is being made public and available to the general audience. "Published" could also be a possible answer, but it is not as commonly used in the context of a CEO making an announcement. "Exchanged" and "demoted" do not fit the context of the sentence and are unrelated to the act of making an earnings 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 for their drinks but did not receive them until after they had finished their appetizers. This suggests that there was a delay or mistake in fulfilling the customers' request for drinks.
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 by expressing that some workers still require reminders about the rules of common courtesy in the workplace. The phrase "to be reminded" indicates that the workers are the recipients of the reminders, emphasizing their need for guidance in this area.
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". This is because "between" is used to compare two things or people. In this sentence, it is comparing Mr. Crowder and Ms. Brighton, and suggesting that the one with the most experience should be hired.
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, they should consider purchasing a print advertisement if they are relying solely on word-of-mouth referrals. This means that if the stores are only relying on word-of-mouth to attract customers and not using any other marketing strategies, they should consider buying a print advertisement to increase their 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
Mr. Reynolds got his secretary, Miss Stamolis, to pick up his dry cleaning by promising to give her Friday afternoon off.
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." The word "by" indicates the deadline or the latest time at which the vacation request forms should be submitted to Ms. Hykoles in Human Resources. It implies that the forms should be submitted on or before 5 p.m. on Thursday.
41.
Carl Perry
245 Pike St., #23
Tacoma, WA 98555
Dear 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. They want him to be among the first to know about their holiday sale, which suggests that they value his loyalty and want to offer him special discounts.
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 the specific date or time when the 2-night stay at the Buena Vista Hotel on Camano Island will take place. It implies that the winner will enjoy the stay and dinner during a particular period of time.
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". This means 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.
44.
Memo
VALUE EMPORIUM
MEMORANDUM
TO: Sales Staff
FROM: Management A.W.
DATE: October 9th, 2009
SUBJECT: Flyer misprint
This 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". In the sentence, the word "rather" is used to compare the discount of 55% off with another discount. The word "than" is used to indicate the comparison between the two discounts.
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. In this context, customers are inquiring about a sale and the instruction is to apologize to them and explain the printing error. This suggests that there was a mistake in the advertisement or promotion of the sale, and apologizing is the appropriate response to address the customers' concerns. Additionally, the instruction mentions offering an additional 5% off coupon as a gesture of appreciation, which further supports the need to apologize for the error.
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 correct answer is "If". The word "if" is used to introduce a condition or possibility. In this context, it indicates that the action of calling a manager to the sales floor should only occur if the situation described in the sentence occurs, which is encountering customers who have the ad with them and demand to receive the 55% discount.
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
A. Their
Explanation
The correct answer is "their". The sender of the email is referring to the help desk operator at Autotech, who forwarded them the email address. The word "their" is used to indicate possession or association with a group of people, in this case, the help desk operator and potentially others at 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" indicates that it is common or usual for the speaker to receive an electronic invoice on the first of the month and a reminder notice halfway through the month. Since neither of these has been received, the speaker assumes 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 submitting invoices related to spending to the head office. This implies that the missing word should be related to financial matters, and "expenses" is the most appropriate choice in this context.
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 correct answer is "have received". The letter is referring to the past action of receiving the application, so the present perfect tense "have received" is the appropriate choice. The other options ("had received", "will have received", "should have received") do not accurately reflect the timing of the action in relation to the letter's date.