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Synonyms

329 questions

All types329Multiple choice165Matching86Fill in the blank78
Question 241Question →

Complete the sentence below with the root-derived word that best fits the blank.

Fill in the blanks below

Because the speaker's microphone stopped functioning properly, her voice was barely to the audience in the back row.
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Answer

audible
The word 'audible' is formed from the Latin root 'aud-' (meaning 'hear') and the suffix '-ible' (meaning 'able to be'). In the context of an audience attempting to hear a speaker through a failing microphone, 'audible' correctly conveys that her voice could scarcely be heard.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The scenario describes a microphone failing and an audience struggling to hear a speaker.
Sentence context establishes that the missing term must describe whether sound can be heard.
2
Apply root word analysis
Combine the Latin root 'aud-' (meaning 'to hear') with the suffix '-ible' (meaning 'able to be').
The resulting term 'audible' means capable of being heard, which accurately completes the thought.

Key Concept

Analyzing root words and affixes to deduce vocabulary meanings, specifically using the Latin root 'aud-' (to hear).
Estimated Time:45s
Question 242Question →

Instead of offering vague reassurances during the system outage, the network administrator chose to be completely candid about the severity of the malfunction. In this sentence, the word candid most nearly means which of the following?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: straightforward

Answer

The word 'candid' most nearly means 'straightforward'.
In this sentence, the introductory phrase 'Instead of offering vague reassurances' sets up a clear contrast between ambiguous, evasive language and open, truthful disclosure. Therefore, 'candid' means frank and honest, making 'straightforward' the correct contextual synonym.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence structure and identify the target word.
The target word is 'candid', used as a predicate adjective to describe how the network administrator communicated regarding the outage.
Understanding the grammatical role of the target word helps locate the key modifiers and relationships in the sentence.
2
Examine the surrounding context clues and transition markers.
The opening dependent clause 'Instead of offering vague reassurances' introduces a direct contrast clue, indicating that the administrator's approach was the opposite of vague, ambiguous, or misleading.
Contrast signal words like 'Instead of' establish that the target word possesses a meaning opposite to the stated alternative.
3
Match the deduced meaning of openness and honesty to the closest synonym among the choices.
'Straightforward' directly conveys the meaning of being open, honest, and direct.
A person who is candid speaks plainly and truthfully without concealing the facts.

Key Concept

Using contrast context clues to determine the precise contextual synonym of a word.
Estimated Time:45s
Question 243Question →

Read the operational performance evaluation statement below. Which word best completes the sentence by providing the appropriate positive connotation of thoughtful and considerate communication?

Fill in the blanks below

When reviewing operational errors with junior technicians, the maintenance supervisor remained remarkably , offering constructive feedback without causing embarrassment or discouraging the team.
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Answer

tactful (or diplomatic / considerate)
The word 'tactful' (along with near-synonyms like 'diplomatic' and 'considerate') carries a positive connotation of delivering necessary critiques with poise, sensitivity, and respect, perfectly matching the context of constructive feedback without embarrassment.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context for tone and emotional indicators
The phrases 'constructive feedback' and 'without causing embarrassment or discouraging the team' indicate a supportive, respectful, and positive interpersonal approach.
Contextual clues establish whether the target word requires a positive, neutral, or negative evaluative tone.
2
Identify the word that aligns with the core meaning of careful speech while conveying the desired positive connotation
The word 'tactful' specifically describes the ability to handle difficult situations or deliver criticism with sensitivity, skill, and positive regard.
The sentence demands an adjective reflecting deliberate care and respect rather than abrasive directness or uncritical passivity.

Key Concept

Distinguishing positive, neutral, and negative connotations of communication styles in context
Estimated Time:45s
Question 244Question →

Which direct single-word synonym correctly completes the statement for the uppercase term?

Fill in the blanks below

An exact synonym for the adjective RIGID is .
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Answer

stiff (or inflexible, unbending, firm)
The adjective 'rigid' describes something that is stiff, firm, or not easily bent; therefore, 'stiff' or 'inflexible' is an exact synonym.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the part of speech and primary definition of the target word
The target word 'RIGID' is an adjective meaning unable to bend, inflexible, or stiff.
Accurate synonym matching requires establishing the core grammatical category and meaning.
2
Select a direct equivalent term that shares this meaning
'Stiff' expresses the physical quality of being unyielding or unable to bend.
Direct synonyms must cleanly replace the target word without altering its semantic value.

Key Concept

Direct semantic equivalence for isolated adjectives
Question 245Question →

The organization was recognized for its benevolent mission to support families facing sudden hardships. What does the word benevolent mean in this context?

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Answer: kindhearted

Answer

The word 'benevolent' most nearly means 'kindhearted'.
The word 'benevolent' comes from the Latin prefix 'bene-' (meaning 'good' or 'well') and the root 'vol' (from 'velle', meaning 'to wish'). Thus, someone or something that is benevolent wishes well upon others, making 'kindhearted' the correct synonym.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the core Latin roots within the target word 'benevolent'.
The word breaks down into 'bene-' (meaning good, well) and 'vol' (meaning to wish or will).
Analyzing the morphological components helps determine the literal and conventional definition.
2
Synthesize the root meanings to determine the intended definition.
'Benevolent' describes someone or something characterized by goodwill or expressing goodwill and kindly feelings.
Combining 'good' and 'wishing' produces the meaning of being charitable or kindhearted.
3
Match the synthesized definition to the closest answer option.
'Kindhearted' precisely captures the meaning of having or showing goodwill.
Selecting the option that best preserves the positive root meaning yields the correct synonym.

Key Concept

Root Word Analysis (bene- / vol-)
Question 246Question →

Complete the statement by providing a precise single-word synonym for the capitalized term.

Fill in the blanks below

An exact synonym for the isolated term PRUDENT is .
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Answer

cautious (or careful / judicious / discreet)
The adjective 'prudent' denotes exercising sound judgment, caution, and foresight in practical affairs, making 'cautious' or 'careful' an exact synonym.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the definition and semantic core of the target word PRUDENT.
PRUDENT is an adjective meaning acting with or showing care, foresight, and sound judgment.
Establishing the precise denotation is necessary for identifying true synonyms without contextual support.
2
Identify direct equivalent terms that match the grammatical form and meaning.
Terms like 'cautious', 'careful', and 'judicious' directly correspond to the quality of exercising sound discretion.
A direct synonym must preserve both the exact descriptive meaning and the adjective part of speech.

Key Concept

Identifying direct synonyms for isolated adjectives without contextual scaffolding
Estimated Time:45s
Question 247Question →

During a strategic planning session, the project director was commended for her astute assessment of operational risks. Which of the following words shares the closest meaning with astute while matching its positive, professional connotation?

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Answer: perceptive

Answer

perceptive
The word 'perceptive' means having or showing keen insight and understanding. In the context of a commended risk evaluation, it matches both the denotative meaning of 'astute' and its positive, professional tone.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the denotation and context clues of the target word.
The target word 'astute' means showing sharp powers of judgment and practical insight within a praised professional context.
Understanding the baseline definition and sentence context establishes what quality is being evaluated.
2
Evaluate the emotional tone and connotation required.
The phrase 'was commended for' indicates a distinctly positive and respectful tone.
Distinguishing positive commendation from underhanded cleverness is essential for selecting the correct synonym.
3
Compare candidate synonyms against meaning and connotative tone.
'Perceptive' precisely matches both the literal definition of keen observation and the favorable tone, whereas alternatives introduce negative undertones, opposite meanings, or extreme overreach.
Matching both denotation and connotation ensures full semantic alignment.

Key Concept

Distinguishing Connotation and Tone in Synonyms
Estimated Time:45s
Question 248Question →

During the field exercise, the commanding officer's capricious directives bewildered the squad, as the operational parameters were frequently altered without any discernible strategic rationale.

Which of the following most nearly means the word capricious as used in the sentence above?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: erratic

Answer

erratic
The word 'capricious' refers to sudden, unaccountable changes of mood or behavior. In the context of operational parameters being frequently altered without strategic rationale, the synonym 'erratic' accurately captures this unpredictable and inconsistent nature.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context
The phrase 'frequently altered without any discernible strategic rationale' directly describes the nature of the directives.
To establish the contextual boundaries and meaning of the target word before evaluating the choices.
2
Define the target word based on context
The word 'capricious' means given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior.
To form a precise mental definition to compare against the given options.
3
Identify and eliminate the antonym trap
The option 'steadfast' means resolutely firm and unwavering, which is the exact opposite of what the context requires.
To avoid the common pitfall of selecting a salient word that contrasts with the target meaning.
4
Eliminate remaining distractors
The word 'capacious' looks similar but means roomy. 'Punitive' implies punishment, which does not align with the concept of arbitrary alteration.
To clear out morphological lookalikes and words with mismatched connotations.
5
Verify the correct synonym
The word 'erratic' means unpredictable and inconsistent, perfectly mirroring the definition of the target word and the context.
To confirm the selected option accurately replaces the target word without altering the sentence's meaning.

Key Concept

Using Context Clues to Eliminate Antonym Traps
Question 249Question →

Root word analysis helps determine the meanings of unfamiliar terms by examining their core roots. Which definition correctly matches each root-derived vocabulary word?

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Inspect
Chronology
Biography
Sympathy

Matches

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Answer

Inspect pairs with 'To look at or examine something closely'; Chronology pairs with 'An arrangement of events by order of time'; Biography pairs with 'A written account of a person's life'; Sympathy pairs with 'An understanding and sharing of another person's feelings'.
Each vocabulary term pairs precisely with its definition based on its root components: 'spect' means to look or see (inspect), 'chron' means time (chronology), 'bio' and 'graph' mean life and writing (biography), and 'path' means feeling or emotion (sympathy).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the primary root in each left-hand vocabulary term
Inspect contains 'spect' (look/see); Chronology contains 'chron' (time); Biography contains 'bio' (life) and 'graph' (write); Sympathy contains 'path' (feeling).
Isolating Greek and Latin base roots reveals the foundational meaning of each word.
2
Match each identified root meaning with its corresponding definition on the right
Inspect matches looking closely; Chronology matches ordering by time; Biography matches writing about a life; Sympathy matches sharing feelings.
Aligning root definitions with the right-side choices produces the accurate synonym pairs.

Key Concept

Root Word Analysis for Synonym Identification
Question 250Question →

The word CURSORY most nearly means which of the following?

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Answer: hasty

Answer

The word 'cursory' is synonymous with 'hasty', describing an action carried out rapidly and without detailed attention.
The term 'cursory' denotes something done quickly with little attention to detail, which directly matches the definition of 'hasty'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the core definition and grammatical role of the target word.
'CURSORY' is an adjective derived from the Latin 'cursorius' (running), meaning rapidly performed or superficial.
Establishing the precise definition separates direct synonyms from related root words and false cognates.
2
Evaluate the answer choices to identify the term with equivalent semantic meaning.
'Hasty' directly captures the meaning of being brief, hurried, or superficial.
Word Knowledge items assess precision in matching isolated vocabulary with direct synonyms.

Key Concept

Identifying direct synonyms for isolated adjectives without contextual scaffolding
Estimated Time:30s
Question 251Question →

Which word means the same as IMPAIR?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: weaken

Answer

The word 'weaken' is the direct synonym because to impair means to reduce the quality, strength, or effectiveness of something.
To impair means to weaken, damage, or reduce in capability. Among the choices, 'weaken' is the only term that matches this definition directly.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Define the target word IMPAIR.
The verb 'impair' means to cause harm, diminish, or reduce the functional capacity of an object, ability, or system.
Establishing the precise definition enables direct semantic matching with the available choices.
2
Evaluate the answer choices to identify the equivalent verb.
'Weaken' directly captures the meaning of reducing strength or capacity, while 'strengthen' and 'repair' represent opposing positive actions, and 'impart' refers to giving or conveying.
Eliminating false cognates and antonyms confirms the single correct synonym.

Key Concept

Direct synonym identification for isolated vocabulary words
Estimated Time:30s
Question 252Question →

Rather than pursuing idealistic theories that were unproven in field trials, the senior engineer took a pragmatic approach to redesigning the hydraulic valve.

In this sentence, the word pragmatic most nearly means which of the following?

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Answer: practical

Answer

practical
The correct answer is 'practical'. The sentence sets up a clear contrast using the introductory phrase 'Rather than pursuing idealistic theories...', which indicates that the engineer chose an approach grounded in realistic execution and tangible results rather than abstract conjecture.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence structure and identify contextual transition markers
The phrase 'Rather than pursuing idealistic theories' acts as a direct contrast clue.
Contrast clues signal that the target word possesses a meaning opposite to the concept being rejected.
2
Determine the meaning of the contrasting concept and deduce the target word's definition
The opposite of 'idealistic theories that were unproven' is a realistic, results-oriented, and applied strategy.
An engineer adopting an approach in direct opposition to abstract theory is choosing a functional, practical method.
3
Match the deduced meaning with the most precise synonym among the choices
The word 'practical' accurately captures the definition of 'pragmatic' as used in the sentence.
Both words describe dealing with things sensibly and realistically based on practical considerations rather than theoretical ones.

Key Concept

Identifying contrast clues to determine contextual synonyms
Estimated Time:45s
Question 253Question →

Words describing attitudes toward danger and risk convey distinct evaluative tones ranging from admirable bravery to contemptible caution. Match each term with the description that accurately reflects its specific connotation. Which pairing correctly connects each word to its appropriate tone and meaning?

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Valiant
Prudent
Foolhardy
Craven

Matches

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Answer

'Valiant' corresponds to noble and heroic courage; 'Prudent' corresponds to wise foresight and sensible caution; 'Foolhardy' corresponds to rash boldness and reckless disregard; 'Craven' corresponds to shameful, contemptible cowardice.
The correct matches accurately pair each word with its precise emotional and evaluative tone: 'Valiant' conveys honorable courage (positive); 'Prudent' conveys sensible judgment and foresight (positive); 'Foolhardy' conveys dangerous, unthinking boldness (negative); and 'Craven' conveys shameful, abject cowardice (strongly derogatory).

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the core denotations and emotional coloring of the four terms.
Identify that 'valiant' and 'foolhardy' both describe boldness, while 'prudent' and 'craven' describe avoidance of danger, but with sharply contrasting evaluative tones.
Synonyms and related words in the same semantic domain must be differentiated by their positive, neutral, or negative undertones.
2
Pair positive-toned terms with descriptions of admirable qualities.
Match 'Valiant' with noble, heroic courage, and 'Prudent' with sensible caution and wise foresight.
Both words carry favorable connotations in formal evaluation and narrative contexts.
3
Pair negative-toned terms with descriptions of undesirable or contemptible traits.
Match 'Foolhardy' with rash, reckless boldness, and 'Craven' with contemptible cowardice.
'Foolhardy' criticizes poor judgment in taking risks, whereas 'craven' condemns an utter absence of courage.

Key Concept

Connotation and Tone Nuances in Near-Synonyms
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 254Question →

The lead technician was commended for her exacting calibration of the navigation instruments before the vessel's departure.

Which of the following words is the closest synonym that matches the positive, professional tone of the underlined word?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: rigorous

Answer

rigorous
The word 'rigorous' accurately reflects the denotative meaning of 'exacting' (demanding strict precision and thorough standards) and matches the admiring, professional tone established by the context.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context clues and emotional tone of the target sentence
The phrase 'was commended for' indicates that the technician's quality is viewed positively and professionally.
Understanding the surrounding context establishes whether the required synonym must have a positive, neutral, or negative connotation.
2
Evaluate the denotation and connotation of the target word 'exacting'
'Exacting' denotes demanding great care, effort, or strict attention to detail, and in this context carries a positive evaluative tone.
Both definition and tone must align to select the proper synonym.
3
Compare candidate options against both meaning and tone requirements
'Rigorous' matches both the requirement for strict thoroughness and the constructive, professional connotation, whereas 'nitpicking' introduces an unintended negative tone.
Eliminating tone mismatches and antonyms isolates the single best synonym.

Key Concept

Connotation and Tone in Synonym Selection
Estimated Time:45s
Question 255Question →

Match each uppercase vocabulary term on the left with its most precise synonym on the right: which corresponding pair accurately connects each word to its direct meaning?

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

AFFLUENT
OBSTINATE
LUMINOUS
PRAGMATIC

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

AFFLUENT pairs with wealthy; OBSTINATE pairs with stubborn; LUMINOUS pairs with radiant; PRAGMATIC pairs with practical.
Each isolated vocabulary term is correctly paired with its closest direct synonym: AFFLUENT corresponds to 'wealthy', OBSTINATE corresponds to 'stubborn', LUMINOUS corresponds to 'radiant', and PRAGMATIC corresponds to 'practical'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the definition of AFFLUENT and identify its primary synonym.
AFFLUENT means having a large amount of money or material goods, which corresponds to 'wealthy'.
Establishing the core meaning of financial abundance isolates the correct counterpart.
2
Analyze the definition of OBSTINATE and determine its direct meaning.
OBSTINATE describes someone stubbornly refusing to change their stance, aligning with 'stubborn'.
Identifying inflexible behavior matches the semantic definition of the term.
3
Evaluate LUMINOUS in terms of physical and descriptive attributes.
LUMINOUS relates to glowing or emitting steady light, corresponding to 'radiant'.
Tracing the Latin root 'lumin-' (light) confirms the connection to shining or glowing brightness.
4
Determine the meaning of PRAGMATIC.
PRAGMATIC relates to handling situations practically rather than theoretically, matching 'practical'.
Connecting realistic, functional application with sensible conduct yields the correct association.

Key Concept

Isolated Word Synonyms
Estimated Time:1m 0s
Question 256Question →

Vocabulary words often inherit their core meanings from ancestral word parts. Which definition correctly corresponds to each root-derived term?

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

Belligerent
Loquacious
Tenacious
Voracious

Matches

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Answer

Belligerent matches 'Hostile, combative, and aggressive'; Loquacious matches 'Extremely talkative and wordy'; Tenacious matches 'Holding firmly and persistently'; Voracious matches 'Devouring great quantities greedily'.
Each term accurately matches its definition based on classical Latin roots: 'belli-' (war) indicates combativeness in belligerent; 'loqu-' (speech) indicates talkativeness in loquacious; 'ten-' (to hold) indicates firmness in tenacious; and 'vor-' (to devour) indicates insatiable consumption in voracious.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Isolate and identify the primary root in each vocabulary term
Belligerent contains 'belli-' (war/fight); Loquacious contains 'loqu-' (speak/talk); Tenacious contains 'ten-' (hold/grip); Voracious contains 'vor-' (eat/devour).
Identifying the root allows direct deduction of the word's fundamental meaning.
2
Connect the identified root meanings with the provided definitions
Combat matches belligerent, speech matches loquacious, holding fast matches tenacious, and eating/devouring matches voracious.
Aligning root definitions eliminates misinterpretations and confirms exact synonyms.

Key Concept

Root Word Analysis
Question 257Question →

Identify the direct synonym for each given word. How should the terms in the first column be paired with their equivalent meanings in the second column?

Click a left item, then click its matching right item

Items

ABRUPT
HAZARDOUS
TIMID
AMPLE

Matches

Show answer & explanation

Answer

ABRUPT matches with Sudden; HAZARDOUS matches with Dangerous; TIMID matches with Shy; AMPLE matches with Plentiful.
Each uppercase vocabulary term is linked to its primary synonym: ABRUPT pairs with Sudden, HAZARDOUS pairs with Dangerous, TIMID pairs with Shy, and AMPLE pairs with Plentiful.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the definition of ABRUPT
ABRUPT describes an action that occurs quickly or unexpectedly.
Matching to the definition links ABRUPT to Sudden.
2
Identify the definition of HAZARDOUS
HAZARDOUS describes a condition involving peril or risk.
Matching to the definition links HAZARDOUS to Dangerous.
3
Identify the definition of TIMID
TIMID describes an attitude of shyness or apprehension.
Matching to the definition links TIMID to Shy.
4
Identify the definition of AMPLE
AMPLE describes an amount that is plentiful or abundant.
Matching to the definition links AMPLE to Plentiful.

Key Concept

Isolated Word Synonyms
Question 258Question →

Which of the following words provides the most accurate synonym for SURMOUNT?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: Overcome

Answer

Overcome
The word 'surmount' is a verb meaning to overcome, conquer, or triumph over an obstacle or hardship. 'Overcome' is the direct synonym that accurately reflects this definition.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Define the target vocabulary term and determine its grammatical function.
The target term 'SURMOUNT' is a transitive verb meaning to overcome, conquer, or successfully deal with a problem or obstacle.
Accurately identifying the definition and part of speech establishes the criteria for selecting the equivalent synonym.
2
Evaluate the answer choices to identify the exact synonym and eliminate distractors.
'Overcome' directly matches the meaning of prevailing over a challenge, whereas the alternatives present an antonym, a phonetic lookalike, and a prefix misinterpretation.
Direct semantic comparison ensures selection of the precise equivalent while avoiding common error patterns.

Key Concept

Isolated Word Synonyms
Estimated Time:30s
Question 259Question →

The technical editor removed all superfluous details from the operating manual to make the instructions concise. What does the word superfluous most nearly mean?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: unnecessary

Answer

unnecessary
The word 'superfluous' derives from the Latin prefix 'super-' (over, beyond) and the root 'fluere' (to flow), literally translating to overflowing or exceeding what is sufficient. In standard usage, it describes something that is extra, nonessential, or unnecessary.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the morphological elements of the target word
Identified the prefix 'super-' (meaning over, above, or beyond) and the Latin root 'flu/fluere' (meaning to flow).
Deconstructing the root and prefix reveals the foundational literal meaning of 'overflowing' or 'more than enough'.
2
Synthesize the root meaning with the context of condensing a manual
Details that 'overflow' or go beyond what is required are extra, nonessential, or unnecessary.
Applying morphological analysis to the sentence confirms that removing extra information creates concise instructions.

Key Concept

Root Word Analysis (Latin root 'flu' meaning to flow, combined with prefix 'super-' meaning over/beyond)
Estimated Time:45s
Question 260Question →

Which word best completes the sentence below to describe equipment that is easy to carry?

Fill in the blanks below

Because the communication radio was compact and lightweight, the team found it to be exceptionally during field operations.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

portable
The word 'portable' is derived from the Latin root 'port', meaning 'to carry', combined with the suffix '-able', meaning 'capable of being'. Therefore, 'portable' accurately describes equipment that can be carried with ease.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context to determine the required meaning
The sentence describes an item that is compact, lightweight, and easy to transport during field operations.
Identifying the contextual clues establishes that the missing word must mean 'capable of being carried easily'.
2
Apply root word analysis to form the correct synonym
The Latin root 'port' means 'to carry', and the suffix '-able' means 'capable of'. Combining these elements produces 'portable'.
Matching the root meaning to the definition confirms 'portable' as the precise word.

Key Concept

Root word analysis using the Latin root 'port' (to carry)
Estimated Time:40s
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