Writing and Editing Word Choice and Vocabulary 2

Question 1

Which sentence correctly uses 'comprise' vs. 'compose'?

Accepted Answer

Both B and C are correct.

Answer

'Comprise' means 'to consist of' (the whole comprises the parts); 'compose' means 'to make up' (the parts compose the whole).

Question 2

What is the meaning of 'ameliorate'?

Accepted Answer

To improve or make better

Answer

'Ameliorate' means to make something bad or unsatisfactory better.

Question 3

Which sentence uses 'imply' vs. 'infer' correctly?

Accepted Answer

The author implied that deadlines matter by using urgent language.

Answer

Speakers/writers imply (suggest); readers/listeners infer (deduce) — the author implies, the reader infers.

Question 4

What is an 'antonym'?

Accepted Answer

A word that has the opposite meaning of another word

Answer

An antonym is a word with a meaning opposite to that of another word (e.g., 'hot' and 'cold').

Question 5

Which sentence uses 'disinterested' correctly?

Accepted Answer

The judge was disinterested in the outcome and ruled fairly.

Answer

'Disinterested' means impartial or unbiased, not bored or uninterested ('uninterested').

Writing and Editing Practice Test