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Difficulty: MediumConnotation and Tone of Words in Context

For decades, the sculptor's monumental bronze works were celebrated for their raw, unbridled energy, capturing the chaotic vitality of the modern city. However, in her final exhibition, this frantic energy was tempered by a geometric precision that surprised critics. The jagged, asymmetrical forms of her early career yielded to structured, harmonious compositions. While some lamented the loss of her signature turbulence, others argued that this new restraint lent her work a mature, contemplative depth.

As it is used in the passage, the word "tempered" most nearly means which of the following?

  1. moderatedAnswer
  2. B
    hardened
  3. C
    eradicated
  4. D
    celebrated

Answer

moderated
The correct answer is 'moderated'. In the context of the sentence, the artist's chaotic and frantic energy is balanced, softened, or subdued by geometric precision. The subsequent sentences confirm this shift by describing the new work as having 'restraint' and 'harmonious compositions,' indicating that the energy was tempered (moderated) rather than lost entirely.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence containing the target word to understand its immediate context.
The sentence states that the sculptor's "frantic energy was tempered by a geometric precision."
This establishes that the energy and geometric precision are acting as counterweights or balancing forces.
2
Examine the surrounding sentences for clues about the direction of change in the artist's style.
The passage notes that the early "turbulence" gave way to "structured, harmonious compositions" and "restraint."
This confirms that the frantic energy was not completely removed, but rather softened, balanced, or controlled.
3
Evaluate the answer choices to find the word that best captures this relationship of balancing or softening.
"Moderated" fits perfectly, as it means to make less extreme or intense.
It aligns with the contextual shift from unbridled turbulence to restraint and harmony.

Key Concept

Connotation and Tone of Words in Context
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Topics

Connotation and Tone of Words in Context

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