Nouns and Adjectives or Adverbs in Two-Blank Texts - GRE Verbal
Card 1 of 721
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Since the weapon had never misfired before, they had to decide whether it was or a(n) in the manufacturing.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Since the weapon had never misfired before, they had to decide whether it was or a(n) in the manufacturing.
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A “canard” is a false story or rumor. “Perfidy” is a betrayal of trust. “Adventitious” looks similar to “adventure,” but it actually means happening by chance and not an essential part. A “blunder” is a careless mistake. “Adventitious . . . blunder” is the correct answer.
A “canard” is a false story or rumor. “Perfidy” is a betrayal of trust. “Adventitious” looks similar to “adventure,” but it actually means happening by chance and not an essential part. A “blunder” is a careless mistake. “Adventitious . . . blunder” is the correct answer.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The crazy , determined at all costs to collect every grievance of the public, received allegations against him that weakened the efficacy of his reports.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The crazy , determined at all costs to collect every grievance of the public, received allegations against him that weakened the efficacy of his reports.
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"Ombudsman" works as the answer, as it matches the description in the following clause of someone who collects grievances of the public. "Deleterious" works as the other answer because it talks about the harmfulness of the claims. Completion questions of this type simply require that you understand the full context of the sentence, and recognize the word for the noun that is the subject of the sentence, and the adjective matching the way they are being described from the context of the given portions of the sentence.
"Ombudsman" works as the answer, as it matches the description in the following clause of someone who collects grievances of the public. "Deleterious" works as the other answer because it talks about the harmfulness of the claims. Completion questions of this type simply require that you understand the full context of the sentence, and recognize the word for the noun that is the subject of the sentence, and the adjective matching the way they are being described from the context of the given portions of the sentence.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Although the stock market can seem like an juggernaut of information that no one could ever learn, with one can begin to spot patterns.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Although the stock market can seem like an juggernaut of information that no one could ever learn, with one can begin to spot patterns.
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"Inscrutable" makes sense as it describes the juggernaut of information, which cannot be easily understood. "Practice" also makes sense because it describe the process by which one can learn the stock market
"Inscrutable" makes sense as it describes the juggernaut of information, which cannot be easily understood. "Practice" also makes sense because it describe the process by which one can learn the stock market
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After working many days without rest, Gregory finally succumbed to a state of , collapsing from exhaustion and being wholly in the face of any physical or mental activity.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After working many days without rest, Gregory finally succumbed to a state of , collapsing from exhaustion and being wholly in the face of any physical or mental activity.
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For the first blank, we are only looking for a simple synonym for the word "exhaustion." No further details should be inferred unless necessary. "Lassitude" is just such a state, one that is wholly without energy. The second blank might seem strange, but the word "impotent" is indeed the best option. "Impotence," strictly speaking, merely means without power. The "-potent" portion of the word is related to the Latin for able to do. Thus, we have English words like "potential," "potent," "potentate," and even the related word "possible." Thus, the state of lassitude left Gregory wholly impotent.
For the first blank, we are only looking for a simple synonym for the word "exhaustion." No further details should be inferred unless necessary. "Lassitude" is just such a state, one that is wholly without energy. The second blank might seem strange, but the word "impotent" is indeed the best option. "Impotence," strictly speaking, merely means without power. The "-potent" portion of the word is related to the Latin for able to do. Thus, we have English words like "potential," "potent," "potentate," and even the related word "possible." Thus, the state of lassitude left Gregory wholly impotent.
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Choose the set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The building itself may have been , but the food was in their mouths.
Choose the set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The building itself may have been , but the food was in their mouths.
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The word “but” indicates a sentence shift, meaning that the words in the blanks will carry contrasting connotations. Something “disreputable” lacks respect because it looks bad. As far as Greek gods are concerned, “ambrosia” is simply food. For us mortals, it is something that tastes or smells divine. “Disreputable . . . ambrosia” is the correct answer.
The word “but” indicates a sentence shift, meaning that the words in the blanks will carry contrasting connotations. Something “disreputable” lacks respect because it looks bad. As far as Greek gods are concerned, “ambrosia” is simply food. For us mortals, it is something that tastes or smells divine. “Disreputable . . . ambrosia” is the correct answer.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
George could only describe the clothes as being , for he was uncertain whether they were meant for female or for male ones.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
George could only describe the clothes as being , for he was uncertain whether they were meant for female or for male ones.
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Probably the most tempting wrong answer for this question is "emasculating." Whenever something is "emasculating," it takes away the masculinity from something or someone. This is not exactly what is being stated. It is basically being said that the clothes have an ambiguous character. You really can't tell if they are for men or for women. When something is "androgynous" it could be for either gender. The word is actually made up of parts meaning "man" and "woman." Think of the words "androgen" (male hormones) and "gynecologist" (a doctor specifically treating issues pertaining to females). If the clothes were androgynous, they likely fit the measurements of both males and females. Hence "proportions" is a fine option for the second blank.
Probably the most tempting wrong answer for this question is "emasculating." Whenever something is "emasculating," it takes away the masculinity from something or someone. This is not exactly what is being stated. It is basically being said that the clothes have an ambiguous character. You really can't tell if they are for men or for women. When something is "androgynous" it could be for either gender. The word is actually made up of parts meaning "man" and "woman." Think of the words "androgen" (male hormones) and "gynecologist" (a doctor specifically treating issues pertaining to females). If the clothes were androgynous, they likely fit the measurements of both males and females. Hence "proportions" is a fine option for the second blank.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The philosopher was well known for his to the thought of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, whose work he greatly admired and believed to be nearly .
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The philosopher was well known for his to the thought of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, whose work he greatly admired and believed to be nearly .
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The easier blank for this sentence is likely the second one. Clearly the philosopher has a great admiration for Rousseau's thought. This leads him to admire it greatly. Such a person almost certainly thinks that Rousseau's thought is perfect. Hence, he thinks that it is "flawless"(i.e. without error or blemish). Someone who has this kind of opinion will be very devoted to Rousseau's thought. Thus, he would "adhere" to it—not physically but, in a way, mentally. "Adhesion" is a good word in this regard, as it can be used to describe such devotion.
The easier blank for this sentence is likely the second one. Clearly the philosopher has a great admiration for Rousseau's thought. This leads him to admire it greatly. Such a person almost certainly thinks that Rousseau's thought is perfect. Hence, he thinks that it is "flawless"(i.e. without error or blemish). Someone who has this kind of opinion will be very devoted to Rousseau's thought. Thus, he would "adhere" to it—not physically but, in a way, mentally. "Adhesion" is a good word in this regard, as it can be used to describe such devotion.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The mayor’s left the whole city , who had expected the announcement merely to express his gratitude for the work done and not to announce a new holiday to celebrate the achievement.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The mayor’s left the whole city , who had expected the announcement merely to express his gratitude for the work done and not to announce a new holiday to celebrate the achievement.
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For this sentence, stick as close to the literal meaning of your clues as is possible. We are only told that the mayor had made an announcement. Thus, a generic word for "announcement" will be the best option among those provided. "Promulgation" fits this well. To promulgate something is to send it forth, and generally, this relates to a promulgated message. As for the second blank, it seems that the city was surprised by the promulgation. The word "nonplussed" works well here, though you should note that this word generally indicates a very extreme amount of surprise, to the point of meaning that someone is unable to function because of the great amount of surprise.
For this sentence, stick as close to the literal meaning of your clues as is possible. We are only told that the mayor had made an announcement. Thus, a generic word for "announcement" will be the best option among those provided. "Promulgation" fits this well. To promulgate something is to send it forth, and generally, this relates to a promulgated message. As for the second blank, it seems that the city was surprised by the promulgation. The word "nonplussed" works well here, though you should note that this word generally indicates a very extreme amount of surprise, to the point of meaning that someone is unable to function because of the great amount of surprise.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
It was amazing to be in the presence of Timothy’s intelligence. In the course of a single conversation, he would express ideas and suggestions with such that his numerous, brilliant insights would overwhelm those listening to him.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
It was amazing to be in the presence of Timothy’s intelligence. In the course of a single conversation, he would express ideas and suggestions with such that his numerous, brilliant insights would overwhelm those listening to him.
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The fact that Timothy could overwhelm his listeners with his ideas is a very important clue regarding the answer you are looking for. Apparently, he has a very fertile and fruitful intelligence. The word "fecund" means this. You likely know the abstract known "fecundity," which describes the state of being fruitful in this manner. It seems that he expresses his ideas and insights without much reserve. Whenever someone is so uncontrolled with "outflow" in this manner, such a person can be called prodigal. Often, this word is used to describe someone who spends a lot of money, as in the biblical story of the "Prodigal Son," who did just this with his inheritance.
The fact that Timothy could overwhelm his listeners with his ideas is a very important clue regarding the answer you are looking for. Apparently, he has a very fertile and fruitful intelligence. The word "fecund" means this. You likely know the abstract known "fecundity," which describes the state of being fruitful in this manner. It seems that he expresses his ideas and insights without much reserve. Whenever someone is so uncontrolled with "outflow" in this manner, such a person can be called prodigal. Often, this word is used to describe someone who spends a lot of money, as in the biblical story of the "Prodigal Son," who did just this with his inheritance.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The of the solution was expressed in the way that it solved a problem that had heretofore been addressed in the same manner for centuries.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The of the solution was expressed in the way that it solved a problem that had heretofore been addressed in the same manner for centuries.
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The second blank is probably easier to solve than is the first one. The problem is being solved in a new way. The word "novel" means new. The word comes from the Latin "novus," which is an adjective meaning new. This kind of solution is "genius," not in the sense of being exceptionally insightful and creative in its novel manner of solving the old problem.
The second blank is probably easier to solve than is the first one. The problem is being solved in a new way. The word "novel" means new. The word comes from the Latin "novus," which is an adjective meaning new. This kind of solution is "genius," not in the sense of being exceptionally insightful and creative in its novel manner of solving the old problem.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Not all is merely reasoning, for it is necessary at times to apply very general ethical concepts to less than clear particular circumstances.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Not all is merely reasoning, for it is necessary at times to apply very general ethical concepts to less than clear particular circumstances.
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It is easiest to start with the first blank for this question. The kind of reasoning that we do when we apply general ethical principles to particular circumstances is called "casuistry." You can think of it as meaning applying to individual cases. Often, this word is used to describe a kind of sophistical reasoning—that is, a kind of reasoning that only appears to be true. The word "casuistry" can describe a truly necessary undertaking.
It is easiest to start with the first blank for this question. The kind of reasoning that we do when we apply general ethical principles to particular circumstances is called "casuistry." You can think of it as meaning applying to individual cases. Often, this word is used to describe a kind of sophistical reasoning—that is, a kind of reasoning that only appears to be true. The word "casuistry" can describe a truly necessary undertaking.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The phenomenon was not ; there were numerous other examples of the very same .
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The phenomenon was not ; there were numerous other examples of the very same .
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The words involved in this sentence are not very difficult. By the simplest reading of the text, it is saying that the phenomenon was not unique but was evidenced by numerous other examples of the same happening or occurrence. The word "singular" can mean unique, as when we say, "It was a singular experience," meaning the kind of experience that will likely not be had again.
The words involved in this sentence are not very difficult. By the simplest reading of the text, it is saying that the phenomenon was not unique but was evidenced by numerous other examples of the same happening or occurrence. The word "singular" can mean unique, as when we say, "It was a singular experience," meaning the kind of experience that will likely not be had again.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The map detailed the course that must be taken by the spaceship during the next from Earth to the distant galaxy.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The map detailed the course that must be taken by the spaceship during the next from Earth to the distant galaxy.
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Remember that you should always stay as close to the direct meaning of the sentence as possible. You really do not have many details about this trip except that it has the details of the course to be taken on a trip through space. Thus, it is best to stay as close to the idea of space travel as possible, thus describing the map as a "celestial" map. This word comes from the Latin for the heavens. As regards the trip to the galaxy, it is best just to call it an "expedition." Particularly given the fact that this trip seems to have a plan and organization, the word "expedition" is quite appropriate.
Remember that you should always stay as close to the direct meaning of the sentence as possible. You really do not have many details about this trip except that it has the details of the course to be taken on a trip through space. Thus, it is best to stay as close to the idea of space travel as possible, thus describing the map as a "celestial" map. This word comes from the Latin for the heavens. As regards the trip to the galaxy, it is best just to call it an "expedition." Particularly given the fact that this trip seems to have a plan and organization, the word "expedition" is quite appropriate.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After much , the student decided to attend the small college, hoping that he would benefit from the relationships that he might form with his professors and fellow students.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
After much , the student decided to attend the small college, hoping that he would benefit from the relationships that he might form with his professors and fellow students.
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We really cannot say whether or not the student argued much while he was deciding to attend the college. The only thing that is hinted at in this sentence is that he thought long and deeply over the decision. The word "cogitation" indicates such deep thought. It is related to words like "cognition," "re_cognize_," and the famous expression of Descartes, "Cogito ergo sum \[I think, therefore I am\]." As for the second blank, we do not know if the student will form influential relationships. The fact that he is going to a small college does hold out the hope that he will form close and intimate relationships with the others at the college.
We really cannot say whether or not the student argued much while he was deciding to attend the college. The only thing that is hinted at in this sentence is that he thought long and deeply over the decision. The word "cogitation" indicates such deep thought. It is related to words like "cognition," "re_cognize_," and the famous expression of Descartes, "Cogito ergo sum \[I think, therefore I am\]." As for the second blank, we do not know if the student will form influential relationships. The fact that he is going to a small college does hold out the hope that he will form close and intimate relationships with the others at the college.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
In an age of text messages, long communication is becoming unknown, as people replace such lengthy letters with forms of .
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
In an age of text messages, long communication is becoming unknown, as people replace such lengthy letters with forms of .
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For this question, you are able to pick a synonym that is actually quite a good match! It is said that lengthy letters are being replaced. The word "epistolary" means related to the writing of letters. It comes from the Latin epistula, meaning letter. The second blank is rather simple in comparison. For that, you are merely looking for a synonym for "communication." The word "correspondence" functions well in this capacity.
For this question, you are able to pick a synonym that is actually quite a good match! It is said that lengthy letters are being replaced. The word "epistolary" means related to the writing of letters. It comes from the Latin epistula, meaning letter. The second blank is rather simple in comparison. For that, you are merely looking for a synonym for "communication." The word "correspondence" functions well in this capacity.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Although the woman was not an official for the position of CEO, she was so highly that she was unanimously elected to the position by the board of directors.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Although the woman was not an official for the position of CEO, she was so highly that she was unanimously elected to the position by the board of directors.
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The second sentence is likely easier to ascertain than is the first one. Apparently the woman was very highly respected, thus receiving many votes. The word "esteemed" is a good synonym for "respected." This word is related to "estimation." Both words have to do with worth. Once you have filled in the second blank, it is rather obvious that the sentence is saying that the woman was not officially a candidate for the position—but still managed to be elected!
The second sentence is likely easier to ascertain than is the first one. Apparently the woman was very highly respected, thus receiving many votes. The word "esteemed" is a good synonym for "respected." This word is related to "estimation." Both words have to do with worth. Once you have filled in the second blank, it is rather obvious that the sentence is saying that the woman was not officially a candidate for the position—but still managed to be elected!
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Although the of DVD's has tapered within most parts of the world, they have unexpectedly surged in places places like Sri Lanka.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Although the of DVD's has tapered within most parts of the world, they have unexpectedly surged in places places like Sri Lanka.
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"Usage . . . unexpected" makes sense. Usage is one of the nouns that makes sense in the context of DVDs. The word "random" further solidifies that strength of this choice; the earlier adverb "unexpectedly" makes "random" a clear choice.
"Usage . . . unexpected" makes sense. Usage is one of the nouns that makes sense in the context of DVDs. The word "random" further solidifies that strength of this choice; the earlier adverb "unexpectedly" makes "random" a clear choice.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Plastic toys can be extremely for young children and pose a choking hazard, so extreme must be taken when offering toys to babies for play
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Plastic toys can be extremely for young children and pose a choking hazard, so extreme must be taken when offering toys to babies for play
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"Dangerous" makes sense as the adjective because it refers to the choking hazard; "care" makes sense as a noun because it is the reaction to the danger of the toys
"Dangerous" makes sense as the adjective because it refers to the choking hazard; "care" makes sense as a noun because it is the reaction to the danger of the toys
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Some people seem to think that is a virtue—as though such intransigence were not a(n) character trait.
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Some people seem to think that is a virtue—as though such intransigence were not a(n) character trait.
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Really, the key word for this sentence is "intransigence," which will help to get the answer for the first blank. This word means refusal to change one's mind. A person who is intransigent is stubborn in his or her ideas. Likely, such a person thinks that obstinacy is a virtue. To be obstinate is to refuse to change one's mind in this manner. In so doing, such a person does not see such obstinacy as being a negative character trait. In other words, he or she does not see it as being a detrimental character trait. This word means harmful, but as it is the only option that expresses this general idea of negativity, it is the best among the options for the second blank.
Really, the key word for this sentence is "intransigence," which will help to get the answer for the first blank. This word means refusal to change one's mind. A person who is intransigent is stubborn in his or her ideas. Likely, such a person thinks that obstinacy is a virtue. To be obstinate is to refuse to change one's mind in this manner. In so doing, such a person does not see such obstinacy as being a negative character trait. In other words, he or she does not see it as being a detrimental character trait. This word means harmful, but as it is the only option that expresses this general idea of negativity, it is the best among the options for the second blank.
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Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The development of robotics is viewed by some as being to human well-being, for many are uncertain regarding benefits of this supposed .
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
The development of robotics is viewed by some as being to human well-being, for many are uncertain regarding benefits of this supposed .
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The general idea of this sentence is that the development of robotics is viewed by some as being a bad thing. Thus, it is viewed as being detrimental to human well-being. According to this sentence, at least, some people do not view such robotics a good thing, hence, it is not viewed as a "boon," a word indicating something that is beneficial.
The general idea of this sentence is that the development of robotics is viewed by some as being a bad thing. Thus, it is viewed as being detrimental to human well-being. According to this sentence, at least, some people do not view such robotics a good thing, hence, it is not viewed as a "boon," a word indicating something that is beneficial.
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