Question

Difficulty: MediumFrequently Confused Words

The following sentence contains two blanks that require words from the frequently confused pair 'discreet' and 'discrete'. Fill in each blank with the correct spelling that matches the context of the sentence.

Answer:The biographer made a 【discreet】 effort to avoid sensationalizing the subject's private life, choosing instead to focus the narrative on a series of 【discrete】 historical achievements.

Answer

The first blank must be filled with 'discreet' and the second blank must be filled with 'discrete'.
The word 'discreet' means cautious, careful, or unobtrusive, which perfectly matches the biographer's effort to avoid sensationalism. The word 'discrete' means separate, distinct, or individual, which describes the distinct historical achievements focused on in the narrative.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the first blank to determine the intended meaning.
The biographer is trying to avoid sensationalism and protect private life, which means being cautious, unobtrusive, or careful about privacy.
The spelling that corresponds to being cautious or respecting privacy is 'discreet'.
2
Analyze the context of the second blank to determine the intended meaning.
The narrative focuses on historical achievements that are separate, distinct, or individual units.
The spelling that corresponds to being separate or distinct is 'discrete'.

Key Concept

Frequently Confused Words (discreet vs. discrete)
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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