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Difficulty: MediumSecondary Meanings and Polysemy

In an effort to prevent the speculative bubble from destabilizing the local economy, the central bank implemented strict capital regulations intended to ________ credit expansion during periods of rapid market growth. Which of the following words fit the blank to complete the sentence logically?

  1. checkAnswer
  2. stemAnswer
  3. C
    table
  4. D
    verify
  5. E
    foster

Answer

The words 'check' and 'stem' both correctly fill the blank using their secondary definitions, which mean to restrain or hold back financial expansion.
The sentence requires words that mean to limit, slow down, or halt credit expansion. Both 'check' and 'stem' function as precise fits because of their secondary definitions: 'check' means to hold in check or restrain, and 'stem' means to stop or hold back a tide or flow.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context and structural clues.
The opening clause 'prevent the speculative bubble from destabilizing the local economy' establishes that the central bank aims to restrict or limit credit growth.
Identifying the contextual polarity and logical intent specifies the precise semantic definition required for the blank.
2
Evaluate the vocabulary options for secondary definitions matching the concept of restraint.
'Check' (meaning to halt, slow down, or restrain) and 'stem' (meaning to restrict or stop the advance/flow of) both complete the context logically.
Both high-frequency polysemous words carry less common secondary meanings centered on curbing or suppressing an unwanted surge.
3
Eliminate distractors based on primary definition traps or logical contradictions.
'Table', 'verify', and 'foster' are incorrect.
'Verify' traps test-takers focusing on primary meanings related to confirmation, 'table' refers to procedural postponement, and 'foster' opposes the intended action by implying encouragement of growth.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings and Polysemy
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Topics

Secondary Meanings and Polysemy

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