Question

Difficulty: MediumFrequently Confused Words

To ensure the sentence has the correct meaning, which words from the confused pair 'adverse' and 'averse' must be placed in the respective blanks?

Answer:Despite the 【adverse】 weather conditions, the researchers were not 【averse】 to continuing their field study in the rain forest.

Answer

adverse for the first blank and averse for the second blank
The word 'adverse' means unfavorable, hostile, or harmful, making it the correct modifier for 'weather conditions'. The word 'averse' means having a strong feeling of opposition or dislike, and is typically used with 'to' to describe a person's reluctance, making it the correct fit for the researchers' attitude toward continuing their study.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the meaning required for the first blank.
The first blank describes 'weather conditions' that are unfavorable, harmful, or hostile to the researchers. The word 'adverse' means unfavorable or harmful, which fits this context.
Determining the correct word based on the definition of 'adverse' as an adjective describing unfavorable conditions.
2
Analyze the meaning required for the second blank.
The second blank describes the researchers' attitude, specifically that they were not opposed or disinclined to continue their work. The word 'averse' means having a strong feeling of opposition or dislike (usually followed by 'to'), which fits this context.
Determining the correct word based on the definition of 'averse' as an adjective describing a person's opposition or reluctance to something.

Key Concept

Distinguishing between the frequently confused adjectives 'adverse' (unfavorable/harmful conditions) and 'averse' (having a strong dislike or opposition to something).
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