PSAT/NMSQT PSAT/NMSQT Vocabulary in Context 2

Question 1

The word 'tenacious' in 'Despite repeated failures, the researcher remained *tenacious* in her pursuit of a cure' most nearly means:

Accepted Answer

Holding firmly to a purpose

Answer

Tenacious means holding fast to a goal or principle, not giving up despite obstacles.

Question 2

As used in 'The diplomat offered only *ambiguous* answers, leaving reporters confused,' the word 'ambiguous' most nearly means:

Accepted Answer

Open to more than one interpretation

Answer

Ambiguous means open to multiple interpretations, creating uncertainty or confusion.

Question 3

In 'The critic called the performance *mediocre*, neither inspiring nor offensive,' the word 'mediocre' most nearly means:

Accepted Answer

Of only ordinary or moderate quality

Answer

Mediocre means of only average quality — not bad enough to condemn but not good enough to praise.

Question 4

The word 'arduous' in 'The *arduous* trek up the mountain tested every climber's endurance' most nearly means:

Accepted Answer

Involving great effort

Answer

Arduous means requiring a great deal of effort or labor; hard and tiring.

Question 5

As used in 'The new policy was met with *vehement* opposition from community members,' the word 'vehement' most nearly means:

Accepted Answer

Showing strong feeling

Answer

Vehement means showing strong, intense feeling or conviction, often expressed forcefully.

PSAT/NMSQT Practice Test