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Latin Roots

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Question 21Question →

Understanding word structure and morphology enables precise vocabulary interpretation on the ASVAB Word Knowledge subtest. Based on morphological analysis of Latin roots, which terms correctly complete the statement below?

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The Latin root *flu* (or *flux*) fundamentally means to , which forms the structural basis for the term , describing a continuous arrival or flowing inward of people, resources, or materials.
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Answer

The Latin root *flu* (or *flux*) means to 'flow', and the corresponding vocabulary term describing an inward flow of people or materials is 'influx'.
The Latin root *flu* (supine stem *flux*) derives from the verb *fluere*, meaning 'to flow'. When combined with the directional prefix *in-* ('into'), the resulting term *influx* literally denotes a flowing in, which accurately describes an arrival of people, resources, or goods.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the foundational definition of the target Latin root morpheme *flu* / *flux*.
The Latin root *fluere* translates directly to 'to flow' (seen in words like *fluid*, *fluent*, *fluctuate*, and *affluent*).
Recognizing the core definition of the morpheme establishes the baseline meaning for all derived English terms.
2
Combine the directional prefix with the base root to identify the target noun.
Combining the directional prefix *in-* (meaning 'into' or 'inward') with the root *flux* (meaning 'flow') yields the noun *influx*.
Applying morphological synthesis confirms that an 'influx' represents a massive or steady inward flow.

Key Concept

Latin Root Morphology: flu/flux (to flow)
Question 22Question →

By adjusting the vessel's rudder trim immediately, the navigator was able to avert a collision with the submerged reef. Based on the meaning of the Latin root *vert*, which of the following best defines the word avert?

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Answer: To turn away or prevent from occurring

Answer

To turn away or prevent from occurring
The word 'avert' is derived from the Latin root 'vert' (meaning 'to turn') combined with the prefix 'a-' (meaning 'away'). Therefore, 'avert' means 'to turn away' or 'to ward off/prevent'. In the given context, adjusting the rudder to turn the vessel away prevented a collision.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Isolate the root morpheme in the target word
The base morpheme is the Latin root 'vert' (variant of 'vers').
Identifying the root allows the core semantic meaning to be determined independently of context.
2
Recall the foundational meaning of the Latin root 'vert'
The Latin root 'vert' means 'to turn'.
Root knowledge directly informs the definition of words within the morphological family (e.g., divert, revert, convert).
3
Combine the root meaning with the prefix 'a-' and verify against sentence context
The prefix 'a-' (a variant of 'ab-') means 'away' or 'from'. Combined with 'vert' (to turn), 'avert' literally means 'to turn away', fitting the action of preventing a collision.
Synthesizing morphological components ensures the most accurate and precise definition is selected.

Key Concept

Latin root vert/vers meaning 'to turn'
Estimated Time:45s
Question 23Question →

The mechanical engineers installed an auxiliary thruster to propel the submersible vehicle through strong ocean currents. Based on the meaning of the Latin root *pel*, which of the following is the most accurate definition of propel?

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Answer: To drive or push forward

Answer

To drive or push forward
The Latin root *pel* (and its variant *puls*, from *pellere*) means 'to drive' or 'to push'. When paired with the prefix *pro-* meaning 'forward', the word *propel* specifically means to drive or push something forward.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the base Latin root and its core definition
The word contains the Latin root *pel* (from *pellere*), which means 'to drive', 'to push', or 'to urge'.
Analyzing root morphology isolates the foundational meaning of the term.
2
Combine the prefix with the root meaning
The prefix *pro-* signifies 'forward' or 'forth', resulting in the compound meaning 'to drive or push forward'.
Synthesizing the prefix and root provides the complete definition matching the context of the sentence.

Key Concept

Latin root *pel / puls* meaning 'to drive' or 'to push'
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