Question

Difficulty: HardFrequently Confused Words

The following sentence contains two blanks that require words from the frequently confused pair 'flout' and 'flaunt'. Which word correctly fills each blank to maintain the proper meaning of the sentence?

Answer:Although the rebellious artist chose to 【flout】 the traditional rules of perspective, she did not 【flaunt】 her unconventional techniques merely to shock the critics.

Answer

The correct words are 'flout' for the first blank and 'flaunt' for the second blank.
The verb 'flout' correctly completes the first blank because the artist is actively disregarding or defying established rules of perspective. The verb 'flaunt' correctly completes the second blank because it refers to the act of ostentatiously displaying or showing off her unconventional techniques.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Examine the context of the first blank to identify the correct word choice.
The first blank describes the artist's action toward the 'traditional rules of perspective.' Since she is defying or disregarding these rules, the correct word is 'flout,' which means to mock or openly disregard a rule or law.
Understanding the semantic requirement of disregarding rules guides the choice of 'flout' over 'flaunt'.
2
Examine the context of the second blank to identify the correct word choice.
The second blank describes the artist not showing off her unconventional techniques to shock critics. The word 'flaunt' means to display ostentatiously or show off.
Understanding the semantic requirement of showing off or displaying ostentatiously guides the choice of 'flaunt' over 'flout'.

Key Concept

Distinguishing between the frequently confused verbs 'flout' (to openly disregard) and 'flaunt' (to display ostentatiously).
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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