STEP Listening Skills 3

Question 1

In a conversation, a speaker says: 'I wouldn't go so far as to say that.' What does this expression convey?

Accepted Answer

Partial disagreement — the speaker thinks the claim is exaggerated

Answer

'I wouldn't go so far as to say that' is a polite way of expressing partial disagreement, suggesting the previous statement was an overstatement.

Question 2

A lecturer states: 'The findings are, at best, inconclusive.' What is the lecturer implying?

Accepted Answer

The findings do not provide clear evidence, and may actually be worse than that

Answer

'At best, inconclusive' means the most positive interpretation is that the evidence is unclear — and it could actually be even weaker or contradictory.

Question 3

You hear: 'The new policy has been met with mixed reactions from staff.' What does 'mixed reactions' most likely mean?

Accepted Answer

Some people support it while others oppose it

Answer

'Mixed reactions' means responses vary — some people view the policy favorably while others are critical or resistant.

Question 4

A speaker says: 'To cut a long story short, we missed the deadline.' What is the function of 'to cut a long story short'?

Accepted Answer

To signal that the speaker is summarizing and skipping details

Answer

'To cut a long story short' is a discourse marker that signals the speaker is omitting details and jumping to the main point or conclusion.

Question 5

In an announcement, you hear: 'Passengers are kindly requested to refrain from using electronic devices during takeoff.' What does 'refrain from' mean?

Accepted Answer

To avoid or stop doing something

Answer

'Refrain from' means to hold back from doing something, to avoid or stop a particular action. It is commonly used in formal announcements and instructions.

STEP Practice Test

STEP Practice Test

STEP Listening Skills 3