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Question

Difficulty: EasySecondary Meanings of Common Words

Although the marathon runners began the race with immense energy and enthusiasm, the oppressive midday heat soon took its toll. By the twentieth mile, even the most seasoned athletes began to flag, their strides growing shorter and their breathing heavier. Spectators along the route offered cups of water and shouted words of encouragement, hoping to revive the runners' spirits. Yet, despite these efforts, the pace of the lead pack slowed considerably as they struggled to maintain their momentum under the burning sun.

As it is used in the passage, the word "flag" most nearly means:

  1. A
    signal
  2. weakenAnswer
  3. C
    mark
  4. D
    accelerate

Answer

weaken
The correct answer is weaken. The context describes runners struggling in the heat, with shorter strides and heavier breathing, indicating a loss of strength or energy.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context surrounding the target word 'flag' in the passage.
The passage notes that the heat is taking a toll, runners' strides are growing shorter, their breathing is heavier, and their pace has slowed.
Context clues help determine the intended meaning of a common word used in a secondary sense.
2
Evaluate the answer choices by substituting them into the sentence.
Substituting 'weaken' into 'began to flag' fits the description of runners slowing down and growing tired.
Substitution verifies if the chosen word maintains the logical coherence of the sentence.

Key Concept

Identifying secondary meanings of common words using surrounding context clues
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Secondary Meanings of Common Words

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