Verbal Ability and Comprehension Flashcards

Select the sentence that uses the correct form of 'lie' vs. 'lay':

Answer: She lies down for a nap every afternoon.

The intransitive verb 'lie' (to recline) is correct here; 'lay' requires a direct object, and 'lied' refers to telling an untruth.

Which word best completes the sentence? 'The politician's speech was filled with ______, making it hard to find any concrete proposals.'

Answer: rhetoric

Rhetoric here refers to language used for persuasive effect rather than informational content, implying a lack of substance.

Identify the type of context clue used: 'The arid, or extremely dry, climate made farming nearly impossible.'

Answer: Definition clue

The phrase 'or extremely dry' directly defines 'arid' within the sentence, making it a definition (restatement) context clue.

Which of the following is an example of alliteration?

Answer: Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers.

Alliteration is the repetition of the same initial consonant sound in closely connected words; 'Peter Piper picked' all begin with the 'P' sound.

What is the meaning of the root word 'bene-' as found in 'beneficial'?

Answer: Good or well

The Latin root 'bene-' means good or well, as seen in words like benefit, benefactor, and benevolent.

Read the passage clue: 'Although Marcus claimed to be impartial, his editorial clearly favored one candidate.' The word 'impartial' means:

Answer: Not favoring either side; neutral

The contrast signal 'although' indicates that being impartial (neutral) is the opposite of favoring a candidate.

Which transitional phrase best signals a contrast between two ideas?

Answer: On the other hand

'On the other hand' introduces an opposing or contrasting idea, while the other options signal addition or cause-and-effect.