VCLA Vocabulary and Word Analysis

Question 1

What does the Latin root 'bene' mean, as found in words like 'benefit' and 'benevolent'?

Accepted Answer

Good or well

Answer

The Latin root 'bene' means 'good' or 'well,' which is reflected in words like 'benefit' (something good) and 'benevolent' (well-wishing).

Question 2

Which word is a synonym for 'ambiguous' as it might appear in a VCLA reading passage?

Accepted Answer

Vague

Answer

'Vague' is a synonym for 'ambiguous,' both meaning unclear or open to more than one interpretation.

Question 3

What does the prefix 'mis-' mean in words like 'misinform' and 'misplace'?

Accepted Answer

Wrongly or badly

Answer

The prefix 'mis-' means 'wrongly' or 'badly,' as seen in 'misinform' (to inform incorrectly) and 'misplace' (to place wrongly).

Question 4

In a VCLA passage, the word 'concise' most nearly means:

Accepted Answer

Brief and clear

Answer

'Concise' means expressing much in few words—brief and clear without unnecessary elaboration.

Question 5

Which suffix changes the adjective 'effective' into a noun meaning the quality of being effective?

Accepted Answer

-ness

Answer

Adding '-ness' to an adjective creates a noun meaning the quality or state of that adjective—'effectiveness.'

VCLA Exam Practice Test