Question

Difficulty: EasyInferring Meaning from Examples and Explanations

Read the following passage from a technical safety manual. Based on the examples and explanation in the text, fill in the blank to complete the summary statement.

Answer:Passage:
During electrical maintenance, technicians must install reliable insulators—such as rubber sleeves, porcelain brackets, and heavy plastic sheathing—around exposed wiring. These protective coverings prevent electric current from escaping conductive lines, thereby safeguarding workers from severe shock.

Based on the examples and explanation provided, the word "insulators" refers to materials used to 【block】 the flow of electric current.

Answer

block (or prevent / stop / resist / inhibit)
The passage provides illustrative examples of non-conductive materials (rubber sleeves, porcelain brackets, and plastic sheathing) and explicitly clarifies that they 'prevent electric current from escaping.' Therefore, in this context, 'insulators' refers to materials that block, prevent, or stop the passage of electricity.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the target vocabulary term and the concrete examples provided in the passage.
The target word is 'insulators,' and the author lists examples including rubber sleeves, porcelain brackets, and plastic sheathing.
The examples illustrate the category by naming standard materials that do not conduct electricity.
2
Examine the explanatory clause directly following the examples.
The text explains that these materials 'prevent electric current from escaping conductive lines.'
The explanatory clause defines the primary functional purpose of the listed items.
3
Determine the word that accurately completes the functional definition.
The term 'block' or 'prevent' completes the sentence by stating that insulators stop or hinder the movement of electric current.
This meaning directly aligns with both the non-conductive examples and the stated action of preventing electrical escape.

Key Concept

Inferring vocabulary meaning from explicit examples and functional explanatory clauses within a passage.
Estimated Time:45s
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