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Difficulty: MediumContext Clues for Synonyms

Read the sentence below and use the surrounding context clues to determine the meaning of the target word. Fill in the blank with an appropriate synonym.

Answer:To ensure a fair hearing, the board selected an impartial mediator who had no personal stake or bias in the dispute. In this context, the word 'impartial' most nearly means 【unbiased】.

Answer

unbiased (or neutral, objective, fair)
The sentence provides clear context clues by stating that the mediator was chosen to 'ensure a fair hearing' and had 'no personal stake or bias in the dispute.' These phrases define 'impartial' as being unbiased, neutral, or objective.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Locate the target word and identify its grammatical role in the sentence.
The word 'impartial' is an adjective describing the mediator.
Understanding the part of speech ensures that the synonym matches the syntax of the sentence.
2
Examine surrounding context clues that define or restate the target word's qualities.
The clues 'ensure a fair hearing' and 'no personal stake or bias in the dispute' directly indicate an absence of prejudice and equal treatment of both sides.
Contextual definitions and modifying clauses provide direct evidence of the word's operational meaning.
3
Select a precise synonym that preserves the sentence's original meaning.
Words such as 'unbiased', 'neutral', or 'objective' fit the context accurately.
Replacing 'impartial' with 'unbiased' maintains both the denotative meaning and grammatical harmony.

Key Concept

Using definition and restatement context clues to identify precise synonyms.
Estimated Time:45s
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Context Clues for Synonyms

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