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Difficulty: HardCommon Prefixes

The new regulations will circumscribe the authority of regional directors. What does the word circumscribe most nearly mean in this sentence?

  1. A
    record in official writing
  2. restrict within clear boundariesAnswer
  3. C
    expand beyond standard limits
  4. D
    examine from every angle

Answer

restrict within clear boundaries
The word 'circumscribe' combines the prefix 'circum-' (around, encompassing) and the root 'scribe' (to draw or write). Literally meaning 'to draw a line around,' in formal and administrative contexts it means to confine, limit, or establish strict boundaries on authority.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the prefix and root components of the word 'circumscribe'.
The word breaks down into the prefix 'circum-' meaning 'around' or 'about' and the root 'scribe' meaning 'to write' or 'to draw'.
Prefix analysis establishes the spatial and directional framework of the word.
2
Synthesize the literal morphological meaning with the sentence context.
Literally 'to draw a boundary line around,' which in an administrative context signifies setting limits on power.
Contextual usage applies the literal spatial boundary to abstract organizational authority.
3
Select the choice that matches this restrictive definition.
'restrict within clear boundaries' accurately reflects the meaning.
It encapsulates the constraining function implied by setting a perimeter around authority.

Key Concept

Prefix 'circum-' (around, about, enclosing)
Estimated Time:45s
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Common Prefixes

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