Text Completion

261 questions

Question 61Question

Recognizing that the expedition's remaining rations were dangerously limited, the chief logistics officer instructed the crew to __________ their remaining provisions rather than consuming them carelessly during the final leg of the journey. Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: husband

Answer

husband
The correct option is 'husband'. As a verb, to husband resources means to manage them economically and conserve them. This precisely opposes 'consuming them carelessly' as signaled by the contrast marker 'rather than'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze contextual clues and logical contrast in the sentence.
The sentence presents a contrast marker ('rather than') between the target blank and 'consuming them carelessly.'
The blank requires a verb that means the opposite of consuming resources carelessly—specifically, using them carefully or conserving them.
2
Evaluate the secondary definitions of polysemous words among the choices.
The verb 'husband' means to manage economically, conserve, or use sparingly.
Secondary definitions of common words frequently test high-level vocabulary mastery on the GRE.
3
Verify fit and eliminate distractors.
'Husband' fits the context perfectly, while words like 'marry' exploit primary definition traps and 'squander' or 'exhaust' contradict the intended valence.
Conserving provisions directly resolves the crisis of limited rations.

Key Concept

Secondary meanings of polysemous words in contrastive contexts
Question 62Question

Given that prolonged exposure to high-pressure thermal fluid directly degrades the crystalline matrix of synthetic polymers, extreme geothermal drilling conditions have predictably __________ the structural lifespan of standard borehole seals; indeed, forensic engineering reports attribute recent catastrophic seal failures directly to this thermal degradation.

Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: curtailed

Answer

The word 'curtailed' correctly completes the sentence by establishing that severe drilling conditions reduce or shorten the lifespan of borehole seals.
The sentence relies on cause-and-effect and supporting structure. The opening clause introduced by 'Given that' establishes that thermal fluid degrades the polymer matrix. Consequently, extreme conditions must predictably reduce or shorten ('curtail') the structural lifespan of the seals. The clause following the semicolon ('indeed, forensic engineering reports attribute recent catastrophic seal failures directly to this thermal degradation') provides additional support confirming this negative impact.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze structural signals and clause relationships
Identified 'Given that' as a causal premise signal and '; indeed,' as an intensifying support signal.
The premise establishes a cause (thermal fluid degrades polymer matrix), requiring the main clause to describe a negative consequence on seal lifespan.
2
Determine the required sentence polarity and meaning for the blank
The blank requires a verb meaning 'reduced', 'shortened', or 'impaired' to logically align with matrix degradation and seal failure.
The supporting clause after the semicolon reinforces that seal failures resulted directly from this process.
3
Evaluate option choices against semantic requirement
'Curtailed' (meaning diminished, reduced, or shortened) fits the required negative causal fit precisely.
'Bolstered' and 'protracted' reverse the logical direction, while 'obviated' and 'sanctioned' introduce contextual misalignments.

Key Concept

Identifying support and causal clues to determine contextual valence and semantic alignment in Text Completion.
Question 63Question

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?

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: check; stem

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
Question 64Question

Although the marathon runner maintained a steady pace for the first twenty miles, her energy began to __________ noticeably during the final stretch of the race. Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: flag

Answer

flag
The word 'flag' correctly fills the blank because one of its secondary definitions as a verb is to decrease in vigor, stamina, or enthusiasm. In the sentence, it appropriately describes how the runner's energy waned during the final stretch of the race.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze sentence syntax and logical signals
The sentence uses the contrast transition 'Although' to indicate a shift between maintaining a steady pace early in the race and a change in energy during the final stretch.
Understanding structural contrast helps identify the necessary polarity for the blank.
2
Determine the required contextual meaning for the blank
The blank requires a verb that means to decrease, weaken, or lose vigor.
The sentence describes a runner becoming exhausted at the end of a long marathon.
3
Evaluate option meanings including secondary definitions
'Flag' has a secondary verb definition meaning to become tired, weaker, or less enthusiastic, fitting the context precisely.
Polysemous GRE words often test obscure or secondary definitions rather than their primary noun meanings.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings and Polysemy
Estimated Time:45s
Question 65Question

Given that the lead archaeologist's newly translated inscriptions provided undeniable corroboration of the ancient city's maritime trade network, the historical committee predictably ________ their long-standing skepticism regarding regional commerce, fully aligning their chronological models with the new evidence.

Which of the following words, when inserted into the blank, best completes the sentence logically?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: relinquished

Answer

relinquished
The sentence relies on the cause-effect signal 'Given that' and the modifier 'predictably'. Because the new inscriptions provided clear corroboration of maritime trade, the logical cause-and-effect result is that the committee gave up or abandoned ('relinquished') their prior skepticism, enabling them to align their models with the new evidence.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify structural signal words and context clues
The cause signal 'Given that' establishes that new inscriptions provided 'undeniably corroborating' proof of maritime trade.
Establishing the cause reveals the logical direction required for the effect clause.
2
Determine the necessary polarity for the blank
The adverb 'predictably' alongside the outcome 'fully aligning their chronological models with the new evidence' indicates that the committee ceased doubting regional commerce.
If empirical evidence confirms trade, a rational committee predictably lets go of skepticism.
3
Select the vocabulary choice that fits the required meaning
'Relinquished' (meaning gave up or surrendered) fits the required tone and logic perfectly.
Giving up skepticism directly matches the causal outcome described.

Key Concept

Support and Cause-Effect Clues in Text Completion
Question 66Question

Although the leadership of the non-profit organization publicly maintained an impression of harmonious unity, newly released internal memos reveal that the governing board was actually __________ by fierce disputes regarding the allocation of endowments. Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: rent

Answer

The correct answer is 'rent', which in this context means split or torn apart by internal conflict.
The word 'rent' relies on its secondary definition as the past participle of 'rend', meaning split, torn, or divided by conflict. This creates a precise contrast with the public appearance of 'harmonious unity'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the structural signals and sentence polarity.
The concessive clause opens with 'Although', creating a contrast between the public front ('harmonious unity') and the private reality ('fierce disputes').
The blank must describe what happened to the governing board as a result of disputes, requiring a word signifying division or fracture.
2
Evaluate the vocabulary options for contextual fit and polysemy.
'Rent' serves as the past participle of the verb 'rend' (to tear or split violently), matching the context of a group fractured by strife.
While 'rent' is commonly encountered as a noun or verb related to leasing property, its secondary literary meaning as the past participle of 'rend' provides the exact semantic fit required.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings and Polysemy
Question 67Question

Which word best completes the passage below to preserve the logical cause-and-effect relationship established by the context clues?

Fill in the blanks below

Because the decipherment of the damaged bronze tablets unequivocally established that the kingdom's agrarian economy relied heavily on seasonal irrigation networks, long-held hypotheses regarding the civilization's vulnerability to flash droughts were decisively .
Show answer & explanation

Answer

substantiated (or corroborated / validated)
The sentence opens with the causal subordinate conjunction 'Because', indicating that the finding in the first clause directly supports or validates the claim in the second clause. Since the newly deciphered tablets 'unequivocally established' the society's dependence on seasonal irrigation, this empirical proof directly backs long-held theories regarding their susceptibility to flash droughts. Therefore, a term meaning supported with evidence or verified—such as 'substantiated' or 'corroborated'—logically completes the sentence.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the structural signal and logical direction.
The sentence begins with the causal conjunction 'Because', establishing that the premise in the dependent clause provides direct rationale or proof for the outcome in the main clause.
Recognizing 'Because' ensures that the missing word must logically align with and reinforce the premise rather than introduce a contrast or contradiction.
2
Analyze the context clue in the dependent clause.
The discovery 'unequivocally established' that the agrarian economy depended on seasonal irrigation networks.
Evaluating the strength of 'unequivocally established' shows that the empirical evidence strongly supports theories linked to drought vulnerability.
3
Determine the required lexical meaning for the blank.
Since the premise provides strong supporting evidence, the blank requires a verb meaning 'supported with evidence', 'verified', or 'confirmed'.
Words such as 'substantiated' or 'corroborated' accurately fulfill the positive causal continuation required by the context.

Key Concept

Support and Cause-Effect Clues in Text Completion
Question 68Question

In her legal commentary on international diplomacy, the jurist cautioned that making unreciprocated concessions during preliminary talks would inevitably __________ the state's sovereign immunity, leaving its domestic institutions exposed to foreign litigation. Which of the following words, if inserted into the blank, would fit the context of the sentence? Select all that apply.

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: compromise; prejudice

Answer

The words 'compromise' and 'prejudice' both correctly complete the sentence by employing their specialized, secondary definitions indicating harm or endangerment to sovereign immunity.
The sentence establishes a causal relationship between making unreciprocated concessions and a negative outcome: exposing domestic institutions to foreign litigation. Therefore, the blank requires a verb meaning to weaken, harm, or place in jeopardy. While 'compromise' commonly means to settle differences by mutual concession, its secondary definition means to weaken, imperil, or expose to danger (e.g., compromising security). Similarly, while 'prejudice' commonly refers to preconceived bias, its secondary verb form in formal and legal usage means to cause damage, detriment, or harm to a legal right or standing. Both words appropriately complete the sentence.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze sentence syntax and structural clues
The phrase 'leaving its domestic institutions exposed to foreign litigation' provides an elaboration clue indicating that the blank must describe an action that weakens, endangers, or harms sovereign immunity.
The consequence described after the comma signals a negative shift regarding the state's legal protections.
2
Evaluate option definitions beyond primary meanings
Identify secondary definitions: 'compromise' (to imperil or weaken) and 'prejudice' (to cause detriment or injury to a legal right).
Both words move beyond their common everyday definitions (mutual agreement and bias/prejudgment, respectively) to fit the formal legal context.
3
Eliminate contextual and primary definition traps
Reject options such as 'reconcile' (primary settlement trap), 'ratify' (opposite positive tone), and 'arbitrate' (topical legal distraction).
These distractor options do not yield a logically coherent statement describing vulnerability.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings and Polysemy in Legal/Formal Contexts
Estimated Time:2m 0s
Question 69Question

Inasmuch as recent paleoclimatological reconstructions demonstrate that hyper-abrupt thermal spikes repeatedly destabilized Pleistocene megafaunal habitats, the proposition that climate volatility served as the principal engine of late-Quaternary extinctions is powerfully ________, given that each thermal pulse directly precipitated a corresponding collapse in regional species richness.

Which of the following words best completes the blank in the passage?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: vindicated

Answer

The correct completion is 'vindicated', as it captures the logical support provided by the causal evidence in the passage.
The sentence relies on the structural support signals 'Inasmuch as' and 'given that', which establish a direct cause-and-effect alignment between the empirical findings and the hypothesis. The findings confirm that climate volatility caused extinction events; therefore, the proposition stating that climate volatility was the primary driver is powerfully supported or 'vindicated'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze sentence syntax and structural transition clues.
Identified 'Inasmuch as' at the beginning and 'given that' in the final clause as strong support and cause-effect structural signals.
These structural signals indicate that the main clause must align logically with the surrounding evidence rather than contrast with it.
2
Evaluate the directional relationship between premises and the blank.
The premises state that thermal spikes caused habitat destabilization and species collapse, which matches the claim that climate volatility drove extinctions.
Because the evidence directly confirms the proposition, the word in the blank must mean supported, justified, or proven correct.
3
Select the option that precisely fits the required semantic intensity and context.
'Vindicated' means supported or proven justified by empirical evidence, which perfectly completes the logical cause-and-effect relationship.
Other options either reverse the logical direction (gainsaid, attenuated), introduce unwarranted concepts (obfuscated), or misinterpret academic justification as emotional praise (extolled).

Key Concept

Identifying Support and Cause-Effect Structural Signals
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 70Question

Complete the sentence by filling in the blank with the word that best fits the sentence's positive tone and context.

Fill in the blanks below

Despite initial skepticism from critics, the researcher's groundbreaking study was celebrated as a contribution to the field of neuroscience.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

monumental (or an equivalent positive term such as landmark)
The surrounding text 'groundbreaking study was celebrated' provides a clear positive signal. A word matching this positive connotative tone, such as 'monumental', is required to maintain contextual coherence.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context clues and sentence structure.
The phrase 'groundbreaking study was celebrated' indicates a shift from initial skepticism to strong admiration.
The blank requires a adjective with a strongly positive connotation that reinforces the idea of high achievement and celebration.
2
Select a word that matches the required positive valence and academic context.
'Monumental' precisely conveys great importance and outstanding achievement.
A word with neutral or negative connotation would fail to reflect the celebratory praise described in the clause.

Key Concept

Tone and Connotation Matching
Question 71Question

Although early astronomers viewed the surface of Mars as completely ______, modern satellite imagery has revealed a dynamic landscape shaped by active dust storms and shifting sand dunes. Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: static

Answer

The word 'static' best completes the sentence.
The sentence relies on the contrast signal 'Although' to set up an opposition between past beliefs and current knowledge. The second part of the sentence describes the surface of Mars as 'dynamic' and 'active'. Therefore, the early view must have been the opposite—that the surface was motionless or unchanging. The word 'static' precisely fits this semantic requirement.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the contrast signal in the sentence.
The word 'Although' at the beginning establishes a contrast between early astronomical views and modern discoveries.
Contrast signals indicate that the missing word must express a meaning opposite to the context clue in the main clause.
2
Analyze the context clue provided in the non-blank clause.
The main clause describes the Martian surface as a 'dynamic landscape shaped by active dust storms and shifting sand dunes.'
This clue describes constant change, movement, and activity.
3
Select the option that provides the exact opposite of the context clue.
The antonym of 'dynamic' and 'active' is 'static', meaning motionless or unvarying.
The contrast structure requires a word meaning unchanging or motionless.

Key Concept

Contrast and Reversal Clues
Question 72Question

Which terms best complete the passage below to maintain the cause-and-effect and supporting logical relationships established by the structural clues?

Fill in the blanks below

Because the regional transit expansion consistently reduced daily highway congestion, urban researchers concluded that the decade-long decline in commuter emissions was by the new light-rail network, an assertion that was furthermore by independent atmospheric measurement data.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

For the first blank, an appropriate term such as 'induced' or 'prompted' correctly expresses the direct causal relationship established by 'Because'. For the second blank, a term such as 'buttressed' or 'corroborated' correctly captures the supportive relationship signaled by 'furthermore'.
The passage uses two explicit structural clues: the opening causal marker 'Because', which indicates that the light-rail system directly caused or induced the reduction in emissions, and the additive adverb 'furthermore', which indicates that independent data buttressed or corroborated this assertion.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the causal clue governing the first blank.
The subordinate clause opens with the causal conjunction 'Because', establishing that the expansion of the light-rail network brought about or produced the reduction in emissions. Thus, blank 1 requires a verb meaning caused or initiated.
The structural signal 'Because' demands a direct cause-and-effect relationship between the cause (rail network expansion) and effect (decline in emissions).
2
Identify the support clue governing the second blank.
The transitional adverb 'furthermore' introduces additive evidence, signaling that the atmospheric data aligned with and confirmed the researchers' claim. Thus, blank 2 requires a verb meaning supported, strengthened, or verified.
The continuation signal 'furthermore' reinforces logical alignment rather than opposition or divergence.

Key Concept

Identifying cause-effect and continuation structural signals in Text Completion items.
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 73Question

Despite the intense scrutiny from critics, the lead researcher maintained a ______ demeanor throughout the panel discussion, greeting every attendee with warmth and addressing challenging questions with genuine affability. Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: cordial

Answer

The word 'cordial' correctly completes the sentence by matching the positive, friendly tone indicated by the surrounding context clues.
The correct choice is 'cordial' because its definition (warm, friendly, and gracious) and positive connotation directly mirror the explicit contextual clues 'warmth' and 'genuine affability'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the structural signals and context clues in the sentence.
The phrases 'greeting every attendee with warmth' and 'genuine affability' signal a distinctly positive, friendly, and approachable tone.
Contextual clues dictate the emotional valence (connotation) of the word needed in the blank.
2
Evaluate the connotation of each option against the required positive valence.
'Cordia' carries a positive connotation meaning warm and friendly, whereas the other choices carry negative or detached connotations.
Selecting a word with matching connotative tone ensures semantic and stylistic coherence.

Key Concept

Tone and Connotation Matching
Question 74Question

Because the synthesis of heavy elements within massive stars is entirely dependent upon the extreme kinetic energy generated during core contraction, the sudden collapse of a supergiant star's iron core ________ thermonuclear fusion in its surrounding shells; indeed, this rapid surge in energy release precipitates the cataclysmic explosion known as a core-collapse supernova. Which of the following words best completes the blank to preserve the logical cause-and-effect relationship established in the passage?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: catalyzes

Answer

The word 'catalyzes' best completes the blank by aligning with the causal structural clues in the passage.
The sentence relies on cause-and-effect continuity initiated by 'Because' and amplified by the semicolon continuation '; indeed...'. Core contraction creates the necessary conditions to trigger fusion, leading directly to a rapid surge in energy. The word meaning 'to accelerate or bring about a reaction' accurately captures this physical cause-effect chain.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify structural transition signals and causal clues in the passage.
The opening word 'Because' indicates a cause-and-effect relationship between core contraction and shell fusion. The semicolon elaboration starting with 'indeed' reinforces this by noting a 'rapid surge in energy release' that 'precipitates' a supernova.
Support and cause-effect clues require the target word to maintain parallel polarity with the cause and its result.
2
Determine the required semantic meaning and valence for the blank.
The blank must mean to trigger, accelerate, or initiate, as core contraction causes an immediate increase in fusion activity.
A word with positive initiation/acceleration valence is needed to connect the cause (contraction) with the effect (rapid energy surge).
3
Evaluate the answer options against the required meaning.
'Catalyzes' means to initiate or accelerate a reaction, perfectly filling the blank.
None of the other options provide the positive causal initiation required by the context.

Key Concept

Support and Cause-Effect Structural Clues
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 75Question

Complete the sentence by filling in the blank with the word that best fits the context based on the contrast structural clue.

Fill in the blanks below

Although the biographer's initial draft was criticized for its extreme , her final manuscript was widely praised for its nuanced and balanced portrayal of the subject.
Show answer & explanation

Answer

The word for the blank must express one-sidedness or bias (such as 'partisanship' or 'bias') to contrast with 'nuanced and balanced'.
The contrast signal 'Although' indicates that the characterization of the initial draft must oppose the 'nuanced and balanced' nature of the final manuscript. Therefore, a noun signifying bias, dogmatism, or partisanship accurately completes the semantic reversal.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the structural contrast signal in the sentence.
The word 'Although' at the beginning of the sentence sets up an opposition between the initial draft and the final manuscript.
Concessive transition words signal that the ideas in the two clauses move in opposite semantic directions.
2
Examine the context clue in the second clause.
The final manuscript is described as 'nuanced and balanced'.
This provides the baseline quality that the initial draft must contrast against.
3
Deduce the required meaning for the blank.
The blank requires a word that means the opposite of 'nuanced and balanced', indicating an unobjective, heavily biased, or dogmatic approach.
The contrast pivot requires a semantic reversal between the two descriptions.

Key Concept

Using contrast pivot words to infer words of opposing semantic valence.
Question 76Question

In his exhaustive study of early modern legal institutions, the historian observed that despite formal attempts by the centralized state to codify statutory law, local customary practices continued to __________ throughout the rural provinces well into the eighteenth century.

Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: obtain

Answer

obtain
The correct word is 'obtain'. In formal academic prose, 'obtain' has a secondary intransitive definition meaning 'to be prevalent, customary, or in effect'. The clause states that despite central government efforts to standardize law, customary regional traditions continued to be in effect ('obtain') in rural areas.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze sentence syntax and structural indicators
The sentence features a contrast signal ('despite formal attempts... to codify statutory law') implying that despite top-down legal standardization, local customs remained in effect and customary.
Understanding sentence context and structural pivot clues determines the required semantic meaning of the missing word.
2
Determine the required target meaning for the blank
The blank requires a verb that means 'to remain prevalent, valid, customary, or in effect'.
The sentence explains that local traditions continued to hold sway in rural provinces.
3
Evaluate vocabulary options for secondary meanings
While 'obtain' is commonly used as a transitive verb meaning 'to acquire', its secondary intransitive meaning is 'to be established, prevalent, or customary' (e.g., 'the rule still obtains').
'Obtain' fits the precise secondary definition required by advanced GRE Text Completion questions.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings of Polysemous Words
Question 77Question

Because recent neuroimaging investigations established that sustained engagement in complex spatial reasoning tasks directly prompts structural neuroplasticity in the hippocampus, the cognitive scientist's assertion that intellectual challenges promote neural resilience was effectively __________. Which word best completes the blank to preserve the logical cause-and-effect relationship in the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: corroborated

Answer

corroborated
The sentence relies on a clear cause-and-effect structure introduced by the opening transition 'Because'. Since neuroimaging studies demonstrated that complex spatial tasks induce structural neuroplasticity, this empirical evidence serves to support and confirm the cognitive scientist's thesis regarding neural resilience. The word 'corroborated' means strengthened or confirmed with supporting evidence, making it the logically precise fit.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify structural transition signals and sentence polarity.
The clause opens with the causal conjunction 'Because', signaling that the first clause provides the reason or evidence for the outcome in the second clause.
Recognizing cause-and-effect clues determines whether the missing term requires a supportive or contradictory meaning.
2
Analyze the relationship between the premise and the main claim.
Premise: Neuroimaging proves spatial tasks prompt structural neuroplasticity. Claim: Intellectual challenges promote neural resilience. The premise confirms the claim.
Since the empirical evidence aligns with and verifies the scientist's assertion, the blank must mean 'supported' or 'confirmed'.
3
Evaluate option choices against the required positive supportive tone.
'Corroborated' means supported or confirmed with evidence, perfectly completing the causal relationship.
All other options either reverse the causal direction, introduce unwarranted negative tone, or misapply terminology.

Key Concept

Causal Continuation Signals in Text Completion
Estimated Time:1m 15s
Question 78Question

While the central ministry attempted to institute standardized administrative procedures across all provincial outposts, traditional feudal customs continued to __________ in the remote highland regions, governing local commerce and conflict resolution without official interference. Which of the following words, if inserted into the blank, best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: obtain

Answer

The word 'obtain' best completes the blank.
The correct choice is 'obtain'. While most commonly used as a transitive verb meaning 'to get or acquire', 'obtain' has a secondary intransitive definition frequently tested on the GRE: 'to be prevalent, established, or customary; to hold true.' In the context of the passage, the word accurately describes how traditional feudal customs continued to be in effect in remote highland villages despite the central government's efforts.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze sentence syntax and structural signals
Identified the concession signal 'While', establishing a contrast between the central ministry's standardization efforts and the reality in remote highland regions.
Structural signals dictate whether the missing word must align with or oppose the primary clause's direction.
2
Determine the required contextual meaning for the blank
The blank requires a verb indicating that traditional customs remained prevalent, active, or established despite top-down administrative changes.
The clause notes that customs were still 'governing local commerce... without official interference'.
3
Evaluate option definitions, focusing on polysemy and secondary meanings
Recognized that 'obtain' has a secondary, formal intransitive definition meaning 'to hold true, exist, or be established/prevalent'.
Standard GRE questions test secondary definitions of high-frequency words rather than their common colloquial meanings.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings and Polysemy
Question 79Question

In historical linguistics, researchers note that while lexical innovations emerge rapidly in urban centers, archaic grammatical conventions continue to __________ in isolated mountain enclaves, resisting external stylistic shifts. Which TWO of the following words, when inserted into the blank, produce sentences that are logically coherent and equivalent in meaning?

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: obtain; prevail

Answer

The correct selections are the words meaning to be customary, established, or widespread ('obtain' and 'prevail').
The sentence describes how ancient grammatical rules continue to exist and remain in force within rural enclaves. The polysemous verb 'obtain' carries a secondary meaning of 'to be prevalent, customary, or in effect' (e.g., 'the custom still obtains'). The verb 'prevail' similarly denotes continuing to exist or being widespread. Together, both words render equivalent, coherent sentences.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze structural clues and sentence tone
The sentence sets up a contrast between rapidly changing urban speech and rural grammatical rules that persist despite external changes.
The blank requires a verb indicating that these old structures continue to exist, hold true, or remain established.
2
Evaluate word choices for secondary definitions
The word 'obtain' has a prominent secondary definition meaning 'to be prevalent, customary, or established' (e.g., 'the rule still obtains'). The word 'prevail' similarly means 'to be widespread or current'.
Both words complete the sentence with complete logical and semantic equivalence.
3
Eliminate distractors based on primary definition traps
Options such as 'procure', 'solicit', and 'amass' rely on the common transactional meaning of gaining or getting items, which fails in this context.
Grammatical conventions cannot actively acquire or gather physical items.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings of Polysemous Words
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 80Question

The professor’s lecture on quantum mechanics was surprisingly ________: she took complex, abstract theories and explained them in plain, accessible terms that even novices could easily comprehend.

Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: pellucid

Answer

The word 'pellucid' best completes the sentence because it means clear and easy to understand, directly aligning with the clause following the colon.
The colon signals that the second part of the sentence defines or elaborates on the missing word. The second part emphasizes that complex ideas were made plain, accessible, and easily understood by novices. The word 'pellucid' means extremely clear in style or meaning, making it the precise contextual fit.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the structural punctuation clue
The colon (:) indicates that the second clause will elaborate on or define the word needed in the blank.
Colon punctuation signals an restatement or explanation of the preceding claim.
2
Analyze the meaning of the elaboration clause
The phrase 'explained them in plain, accessible terms that even novices could easily comprehend' indicates that the lecture was remarkably clear and understandable.
The blank must reflect a positive quality related to clarity and ease of understanding.
3
Evaluate option choices against the required meaning
'Pellucid' means clear and comprehensible, which directly matches the target meaning.
Other options either contradict the clarification (esoteric, opaque) or misinterpret the tone/context (pedantic, verbose).

Key Concept

Elaboration and Restatement Clues
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