CEC Word Usage & Vocabulary 3

Question 1

Which sentence correctly uses 'continual' versus 'continuous'?

Accepted Answer

The editor made continual corrections, stopping periodically to consult the style guide.

Answer

The machine ran on continuous power, yet it required continual maintenance throughout.

Answer

She received continual praise throughout the entire unbroken ceremony.

Answer

The alarm system sounded continuous alerts at random and irregular intervals.

Question 2

Which sentence correctly uses 'between' versus 'among' according to traditional grammar rules?

Accepted Answer

The confidential memo was circulated among the three department heads.

Answer

The prize money was split between all five co-authors of the study.

Answer

The editorial disagreement arose among the chief editor and the publisher.

Answer

The editor had to choose between the three proposed headline options.

Question 3

Which sentence correctly distinguishes between 'historic' and 'historical'?

Accepted Answer

The researcher consulted historical documents to verify the reported dates.

Answer

The museum houses many historic records and archives from the 19th century.

Answer

The signing of the armistice was a historical event celebrated around the world.

Answer

We visited the historical battlefield where the war's decisive battle took place.

Question 4

Which sentence correctly uses 'nauseated' versus 'nauseous' according to traditional grammar?

Accepted Answer

She felt nauseated by the rough seas during the overnight ocean crossing.

Answer

The patient reported feeling nauseous after taking the prescribed medication.

Answer

The rotting smell in the storage room was nauseated to everyone present.

Answer

The graphic crime scene images were nauseated to the more sensitive viewers.

Question 5

A copyeditor sees: 'The startup began to flounder and eventually went out of business.' What is the most accurate assessment?

Accepted Answer

'Flounder' is imprecise; 'founder' should be used because it means to fail or collapse completely.

Answer

The sentence is correct as written; 'flounder' means to fail completely and shut down.

Answer

'Flounder' is incorrect; 'falter' is the only appropriate replacement here.

Answer

Both 'flounder' and 'founder' are fully interchangeable in this editorial context.

Question 6

Which sentence correctly uses 'because of' or 'due to' according to traditional grammar rules?

Accepted Answer

Because of his careful editing, the manuscript received widespread praise.

Answer

The project was delayed due to a series of unexpected technical complications.

Answer

She left the event early due to feeling suddenly and severely unwell.

Answer

Due to the holiday schedule, the entire office will be closed on Friday.

Question 7

Which sentence contains a commonly misused word that a careful copyeditor should flag?

Accepted Answer

The author was fulsome in his praise, calling the biography definitive and essential.

Answer

The senator implied that the proposed budget cuts would affect education funding.

Answer

The teacher inferred from the student's hesitant tone that she was uncertain.

Answer

The editor ensured the revised manuscript met all of the submission requirements.