Reading Comprehension Vocabulary 3

Question 1

A reader encounters 'The treaty was a pragmatic solution.' In this context, 'pragmatic' means:

Accepted Answer

Practical rather than idealistic

Answer

'Pragmatic' means dealing with things sensibly and practically rather than theoretically.

Question 2

What is the meaning of the word 'benevolent' as used in 'the benevolent donor'?

Accepted Answer

Generous and well-meaning

Answer

'Benevolent' means well-meaning and kindly, especially toward others.

Question 3

If an argument is described as 'specious,' it is:

Accepted Answer

Seemingly reasonable but actually false

Answer

A specious argument appears correct on the surface but is actually misleading or false.

Question 4

The word 'exacerbate' most nearly means:

Accepted Answer

To make a problem worse

Answer

'Exacerbate' means to make a bad situation or problem worse.

Question 5

In 'the scholar's erudite commentary,' 'erudite' means:

Accepted Answer

Having or showing great knowledge

Answer

'Erudite' describes someone who has extensive knowledge gained through study.

Reading Comprehension Practice Test