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Question

Difficulty: MediumSecondary and High-Frequency Alternative Meanings

Based on the contextual clues in the sentence below, identify the vocabulary word that accurately completes the passage when used in its secondary meaning.

Answer:Despite the principal investigator's initial optimism regarding the clinical trial, her enthusiasm began to 【flag】 after several months of repetitive data collection failed to yield statistically significant results.

Answer

The word 'flag' correctly completes the sentence, functioning in its secondary sense as a verb meaning to lose vigor, tire, or decline in intensity.
In the provided context, the transition word 'Despite' contrasts initial optimism with a subsequent decline in enthusiasm. The verb 'flag' secondary definition is to languish, tire, or lose vigor, making it the intended fit for the blank.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the structural contrast and tone signals in the sentence.
The opening word 'Despite' signals a shift from the investigator's 'initial optimism' to a state of diminishing energy or enthusiasm caused by unpromising experimental results.
The context requires a verb that expresses a drop, weakening, or loss of momentum.
2
Evaluate high-frequency words for relevant secondary definitions.
While 'flag' is most commonly known as a noun referring to a banner or marker, its secondary verb definition specifically means to become unsteady, dwindle, or decline in vigor.
Using 'flag' in this sense provides an exact semantic match for diminishing enthusiasm.

Key Concept

Secondary and Alternative Meanings of High-Frequency Words
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Topics

Secondary and High-Frequency Alternative Meanings

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