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Question

Difficulty: MediumMultiple-Meaning Words

Failing to replace the worn gasket will only compound the engine's mechanical problems over time. In this sentence, what is the meaning of the word compound?

  1. A
    blend
  2. B
    enclose
  3. intensifyAnswer
  4. D
    remedy

Answer

intensify
In the provided sentence, 'compound' is used as a verb meaning to make an existing difficulty or problem worse. The option indicating to make more intense or severe precisely matches this context.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context clues surrounding the underlined word in the sentence.
The phrase 'failing to replace the worn gasket' establishes neglect that negatively impacts the 'mechanical problems over time.'
Contextual clues demonstrate a cause-and-effect relationship where inaction makes existing trouble worse.
2
Determine the specific polysemous definition of 'compound' that aligns with the context.
When applied to negative conditions or problems, the verb 'compound' means to intensify, aggravate, or multiply.
Polysemous words require selecting the definition matching the surrounding sentence logic rather than defaulting to the most common definition.

Key Concept

Determining contextual meaning of polysemous words
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Multiple-Meaning Words

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