ABLE Listening Comprehension 2

Question 1

A speaker says: 'I'd rather we postponed the meeting until everyone has reviewed the proposal.' What is the speaker requesting?

Accepted Answer

Delay the meeting until participants are prepared

Answer

The phrase 'rather we postponed...until everyone has reviewed' indicates a request to delay until a condition is met.

Question 2

You hear: 'The report is due by end of business Friday, without exception.' Which word signals that no flexibility is allowed?

Accepted Answer

without exception

Answer

'Without exception' explicitly signals that no alternatives or delays will be accepted.

Question 3

A caller leaves a voicemail: 'If it's not too much trouble, could you send me the agenda before the conference call?' What tone does this convey?

Accepted Answer

Polite and tentative

Answer

'If it's not too much trouble' is a softening phrase that makes the request sound polite and non-imposing.

Question 4

You hear a lecture: 'Unlike passive listening, active listening requires the listener to engage, question, and reflect.' What is being contrasted?

Accepted Answer

Active and passive listening

Answer

The word 'unlike' directly signals a contrast between passive and active listening.

Question 5

A colleague says: 'I'm swamped this week, but I'll try to get it to you by Thursday.' What can you infer?

Accepted Answer

The colleague is busy but will attempt to meet the deadline

Answer

'Swamped' means very busy, and 'I'll try' signals effort without a firm guarantee.

(ABLE) Assessment Board for Language Examinations Practice Test