CCE CCE Word Usage and Diction Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

Which sentence demonstrates correct use of 'affect' versus 'effect'?

Accepted Answer

The new policy will affect the outcome.

Answer

'Affect' is most commonly a verb meaning to influence, while 'effect' is most commonly a noun meaning result.

Question 2

A copyeditor sees 'she inferred that he meant to insult her' in a context where the speaker is the one making the suggestion. What is the issue?

Accepted Answer

'Inferred' should be 'implied'; the speaker implies, the listener infers.

Answer

To imply is to suggest something indirectly; to infer is to draw a conclusion from evidence — a speaker implies, a listener infers.

Question 3

Which is the correct use of 'disinterested' in an editorial context?

Accepted Answer

'Disinterested' means impartial or unbiased, not the same as 'uninterested.'

Answer

Traditional usage distinguishes 'disinterested' (having no personal stake, impartial) from 'uninterested' (not interested, bored).

Question 4

A manuscript reads 'she was fulsome in her praise.' The author intends to say the praise was lavish and generous. What should the copyeditor note?

Accepted Answer

Flag it: 'fulsome' traditionally means excessive to the point of being insincere or offensive, not simply generous.

Answer

Traditional editorial usage warns that 'fulsome' means excessively flattering or insincerely complimentary, which may be the opposite of what the author intends.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

The machine ran continuously for 48 hours without stopping.

Answer

'Continuous' means uninterrupted, while 'continual' means recurring at intervals; a machine running without pause is continuous.

CCE - Certified Copyeditor Practice Test

CCE - Certified Copyeditor Practice Test

CCE CCE Word Usage and Diction Questions and Answers 2