TOEFL Listening Comprehension 3

Question 1

In a TOEFL Listening passage, what does the signal phrase 'On the other hand...' most likely indicate?

Accepted Answer

The speaker is about to introduce a contrasting or opposing idea

Answer

'On the other hand' is a contrast signal that introduces an opposing or different perspective — it marks a shift in the direction of the argument.

Question 2

A professor mentions a concept and then says, 'Let me give you a concrete example to illustrate this.' What should a TOEFL test-taker do?

Accepted Answer

Pay careful attention and note the example, as it is likely to be tested

Answer

When professors explicitly signal that an example is coming, TOEFL questions often test comprehension of that specific example — it is high-priority listening content.

Question 3

What is the purpose of 'REPLAY QUESTIONS' in the TOEFL Listening section?

Accepted Answer

To ask about a specific short audio clip that is replayed for the student

Answer

Replay questions present a short excerpt from the listening that is played again, then ask about its function or meaning — they test understanding of a specific moment in the conversation or lecture.

Question 4

A student is listening to a campus conversation between a student and a librarian. The librarian says, 'We do have that book, but it's currently on reserve.' What does 'on reserve' most likely mean in this context?

Accepted Answer

The book is set aside and can only be used under specific conditions (e.g., limited hours or in-library use only)

Answer

'On reserve' in a library context means the item is held for restricted use — typically for a specific course or with time limitations — and cannot be freely checked out.

Question 5

In TOEFL Listening, what does it mean when a professor's voice rises in pitch at the end of a statement (not a question)?

Accepted Answer

The professor may be uncertain or is checking whether students are following

Answer

Rising intonation in a non-question context often signals uncertainty, hesitation, or a check for comprehension — the professor is seeking listener acknowledgment or expressing tentativeness.

TOEFL Practice Test

TOEFL Practice Test

TOEFL Listening Comprehension 3