West B Test Reading: Word Meanings in Context 2

Question 1

Read the sentence: 'The scientist's findings were so *seminal* that they reshaped the entire field of genetics.' What does 'seminal' mean here?

Accepted Answer

Highly influential and original

Answer

'Seminal' describes something that strongly influences future developments and is foundational to a field.

Question 2

The passage states: 'After years of *acrimony*, the two departments finally reached a cooperative agreement.' What does 'acrimony' mean?

Accepted Answer

Bitter hostility or ill will

Answer

'Acrimony' refers to bitterness or sharpness of manner or speech, especially in disputes.

Question 3

In the text: 'The attorney's argument was *cogent*, leaving little room for the jury to doubt the defendant's guilt.' What does 'cogent' mean?

Accepted Answer

Clearly logical and convincing

Answer

'Cogent' means powerfully persuasive and logically sound.

Question 4

The article reads: 'Rather than making a *precipitate* decision, the board took several weeks to deliberate.' What does 'precipitate' mean in this context?

Accepted Answer

Hasty and rash

Answer

'Precipitate' as an adjective means acting too quickly without adequate consideration.

Question 5

The passage says: 'Critics called the policy *draconian*, arguing it imposed unfair burdens on low-income families.' What does 'draconian' mean?

Accepted Answer

Excessively harsh or severe

Answer

'Draconian' describes laws or rules that are extremely strict and harsh, often disproportionately so.

West B Test Practice Test

West B Test Practice Test

West B Test Reading: Word Meanings in Context 2