Read the sentences below, noting the contrast markers that signal opposing meanings. Match each sentence featuring an underlined target word to the definition that reflects its contextual meaning.
- Sentence 1: 'While the coastal radar array is entirely obsolete, the fleet's new sonar tracking system is cutting-edge.'Outdated and no longer in modern or active use
- Sentence 2: 'The initial safety inspection was surprisingly perfunctory, whereas the follow-up compliance audit was exhaustive.'Superficial, routine, and performed with minimal care or effort
- Sentence 3: 'Unlike rigid cast iron that easily fractures under stress, the newly synthesized alloy is remarkably malleable.'Pliable and capable of being shaped or bent without fracturing
- Sentence 4: 'The reconnaissance patrol remained strictly covert during the mission, in contrast to the overt convoy on the highway.'Concealed, hidden, or operating in secret
Answer
Sentence 1 matches 'Outdated and no longer in modern or active use'; Sentence 2 matches 'Superficial, routine, and performed with minimal care or effort'; Sentence 3 matches 'Pliable and capable of being shaped or bent without fracturing'; Sentence 4 matches 'Concealed, hidden, or operating in secret'.
Each sentence uses a distinct contrast indicator ('while', 'whereas', 'unlike', 'in contrast to') to set the underlined target word against an explicit opposing concept ('cutting-edge', 'exhaustive', 'rigid', 'overt'). By determining the exact antonym of each clue, each underlined term accurately aligns with its corresponding definition: 'obsolete' with outdated, 'perfunctory' with superficial, 'malleable' with pliable, and 'covert' with concealed.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Identifying contrast transitions and deriving unfamiliar vocabulary meanings through opposing antonym clues.
Estimated Time:1m 0s