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Question

Difficulty: EasyTone and Connotation Matching

Although the committee recognized the historian's painstaking research, several members criticized the biography's tone as uncomfortably ______, noting that its stark, unfeeling presentation stripped the subject of all human warmth.

Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

  1. sterileAnswer
  2. B
    thorough
  3. C
    objective
  4. D
    impassioned
  5. E
    scrupulous

Answer

sterile
The correct answer is 'sterile' because it carries the negative connotation of being cold, clinical, and lacking vitality, which directly aligns with the contextual clues 'criticized', 'uncomfortably', and 'unfeeling presentation.'

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze structural clues and sentence polarity
The word 'criticized' paired with 'uncomfortably' indicates a negative connotation for the target blank.
Identifying contextual sentiment is essential for selecting the correct connotative valence.
2
Examine descriptive elaboration clues
The phrase 'stark, unfeeling presentation stripped the subject of all human warmth' defines the specific negative tone needed.
Elaboration clauses clarify the exact meaning and tone required to complete the sentence logically.
3
Evaluate option connotations against context requirements
'Sterile' is the only option with a negative connotation meaning devoid of warmth or feeling.
Words with neutral or positive meanings (like objective or thorough) fail to match the critical tone of the context.

Key Concept

Tone and Connotation Matching
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Tone and Connotation Matching

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