GRE Critical Reading and Inference Questions 2

Question 1

A passage states: 'The committee approved the proposal only after the board's reservations were formally withdrawn.' What can be inferred?

Accepted Answer

The board originally had objections to the proposal

Answer

'Reservations were withdrawn' implies the board previously held objections.

Question 2

An author writes that a theory 'enjoyed brief popularity before being eclipsed by more rigorous models.' The word 'eclipsed' most nearly means:

Accepted Answer

Overshadowed and replaced

Answer

'Eclipsed by more rigorous models' indicates the theory was overshadowed and superseded.

Question 3

A reading passage describes a policy as 'ostensibly neutral but functionally discriminatory.' This suggests the author believes the policy:

Accepted Answer

Appears fair but produces unequal effects

Answer

'Ostensibly neutral but functionally discriminatory' contrasts appearance with real unequal effect.

Question 4

If a passage notes that 'critics dismissed the work, yet it now appears on every required-reading list,' the author most likely intends to highlight:

Accepted Answer

A reversal in the work's reputation over time

Answer

The contrast between past dismissal and present required status shows a reversal in reputation.

Question 5

A sentence reads: 'Far from being a setback, the delay gave researchers time to refine their methods.' The author's attitude toward the delay is:

Accepted Answer

Positive, viewing it as beneficial

Answer

'Far from being a setback' reframes the delay as advantageous.

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