Question

Difficulty: MediumDetermining Connotation and Tone of Vocabulary

Read the following passage:

"During the field survey of an active volcanic caldera, the chief volcanologist commended the sensor-deployment crew for their vigilant monitoring of subterranean tremors. Even when hazardous gas emissions spiked unpredictably, the researchers remained stationed at their posts to ensure uninterrupted telemetry transmission."

Based on the tone and context clues provided in the passage, fill in the blanks to complete the analytical statement below:

Answer:In this passage, the word 'vigilant' carries a distinctly 【positive】 connotation, reflecting an authorial tone of 【admiration】 toward the crew's dedication.

Answer

Blank 1: positive (or favorable / approving); Blank 2: admiration (or praise / respect)
The author uses the phrase 'chief volcanologist commended' and highlights the team's commitment to maintaining data transmission despite hazards. This establishes that 'vigilant' has a positive connotation, and the authorial tone expresses admiration for the crew's professional resolve.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Examine surrounding context clues in the passage
Identified supporting words such as 'commended' and 'ensure uninterrupted telemetry transmission'.
Contextual clues reveal how the author evaluates the crew's actions.
2
Determine the connotation of 'vigilant'
In this context, 'vigilant' signifies attentive and responsible professionalism rather than hyper-anxious paranoia.
The word is framed as a positive, praiseworthy attribute.
3
Infer the author's tone toward the research crew
The narrative highlights perseverance in dangerous conditions, establishing a tone of admiration and respect.
Commending workers who stay at their posts despite hazardous spikes demonstrates high regard.

Key Concept

Determining word connotation and authorial tone using surrounding contextual clues.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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