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Difficulty: MediumConnotation and Tone of Words in Context

Read the passage below:

"The architect’s latest civic project was not merely a building but a manifesto. Critics who had anticipated a *clinical* structure were startled by its warmth, noting how the sunlit atrium seemed to embrace visitors. Yet, the local council remained *cautious*, viewing the sweeping curves as an *extravagant* gesture that threatened to eclipse the neighborhood’s modest heritage. To them, the design was not an inviting sanctuary, but a *pretentious* display of modern hubris."

Based on the passage, match each italicized word to the specific connotation or tone it carries in this context.

  • "clinical"carrying a connotation of sterile, cold detachment
  • "extravagant"carrying a connotation of reckless, wasteful excessiveness
  • "pretentious"carrying a tone of arrogant, self-important display

Answer

The word 'clinical' carries a connotation of sterile, cold detachment; 'extravagant' carries a connotation of reckless, wasteful excessiveness; and 'pretentious' carries a tone of arrogant, self-important display.
The correct pairings align each word with its contextual connotation: 'clinical' matches the connotation of sterile, cold detachment; 'extravagant' matches the connotation of reckless, wasteful excessiveness; and 'pretentious' matches the tone of arrogant, self-important display.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the word 'clinical' in the second sentence.
The passage states that critics expected a 'clinical' structure but were surprised by its 'warmth' and 'embrace'. This establishes a contrast.
To determine the tone and connotation of 'clinical' based on the surrounding context cues.
2
Analyze the context of the word 'extravagant' in the third sentence.
The local council is 'cautious' and views the curves as an 'extravagant gesture' that threatens to 'eclipse' the neighborhood's modest heritage.
To identify the negative nuance of wasteful, excessive design from the council's skeptical perspective.
3
Analyze the context of the word 'pretentious' in the final sentence.
The council contrasts the design with an 'inviting sanctuary', calling it a 'pretentious display of modern hubris'.
To determine that 'pretentious' carries an arrogant, self-important connotation in connection with 'hubris'.

Key Concept

Connotation and Tone of Words in Context
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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Topics

Connotation and Tone of Words in Context

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