Secondary Meanings and Polysemy

25 questions

Question 1Question

Although the novel statute was formally enacted, legal scholars noted that traditional customary practices continued to ________ in the rural provinces, rendering the central government's decree largely ineffective. Which of the following words, if inserted into the blank, logically complete the sentence? Select all that apply.

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: obtain; prevail

Answer

The words 'obtain' and 'prevail' both correctly complete the sentence by indicating that traditional practices remained customary and in force.
Both 'obtain' and 'prevail' correctly complete the sentence. While 'obtain' is most commonly recognized in its primary sense of acquiring something, it possesses an important secondary definition as an intransitive verb meaning to be prevalent, customary, or in effect. 'Prevail' similarly means to exist widely or remain dominant. Both choices logically complete the thought that traditional customs continued despite the new law.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze structural clues and sentence polarity.
The concession signal 'Although' indicates a contrast between the enactment of the new statute and the actual situation in the rural provinces. The phrase 'rendering the central government's decree largely ineffective' shows that traditional practices continued to be active.
Understanding context and contrast signals determines the semantic direction of the blank.
2
Identify the required meaning for the blank.
The blank requires an intransitive verb meaning 'to exist broadly', 'to be customary', or 'to remain in force'.
The verb must fit the intransitive syntax 'continued to ________ in the rural provinces'.
3
Evaluate word options against primary versus secondary meanings.
'Prevail' straightforwardly means to be widespread. 'Obtain', while commonly used transitively to mean 'to acquire', has a specialized secondary meaning as an intransitive verb meaning 'to be established, prevalent, or in effect'.
Recognizing the polysemous nature of 'obtain' allows for selecting both correct choices while eliminating primary-definition traps like 'acquire' and 'procure'.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings and Polysemy
Question 2Question

Although the lead researcher was eager to publish her initial breakthroughs immediately, her senior colleagues insisted that she __________ her assertions until the empirical evidence could be independently replicated. Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: qualify

Answer

The word 'qualify' best completes the sentence, using its secondary definition to mean limiting or adding conditions to a claim.
The context requires a verb that means to limit, modify, or add reservations to a statement. While 'qualify' commonly refers to meeting minimum standards, its secondary definition is to make a statement less strong or clear by adding limitations. This precisely reflects the colleagues' insistence that the claims be moderated pending independent replication.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence structure and logical signals.
The opening concession 'Although' creates a contrast between the researcher's eagerness to trumpet her discovery and her colleagues' cautious stance.
The blank must describe an action that tones down or restricts the initial enthusiasm of the claims.
2
Evaluate the secondary meanings of the vocabulary choices.
'Qualify' has a high-frequency secondary meaning in GRE contexts: to limit, modify, or moderate a statement.
Applying this secondary definition fits the context of adding prudent limitations to unverified scientific claims.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings of Common Words (Polysemy)
Question 3Question

Faced with an unprecedented environmental crisis and rapidly dwindling municipal reservoirs, the city council urged citizens to ________ their remaining water supplies rather than spending them recklessly. Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: husband

Answer

husband
The correct option is 'husband'. While commonly used as a noun referring to a spouse, as a verb 'husband' means to manage prudently or conserve resources. This fits the contrast introduced by 'rather than spending them recklessly'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze structural clues and sentence logic
The phrase 'rather than spending them recklessly' indicates that the missing word must mean the opposite of reckless consumption—specifically, conserving or managing carefully.
Contrast clues set up a direct opposition between reckless usage and careful preservation.
2
Evaluate option definitions, focusing on secondary meanings
The verb 'husband' secondary definition is 'to use sparingly or economically; conserve'.
GRE Text Completion frequently tests secondary or tertiary meanings of common words.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings and Polysemy
Question 4Question

Despite initial enthusiasm for the rapid expansion of the municipal power grid, city regulators stepped in to __________ further development until comprehensive environmental assessments could be finalized. Which of the following words logically complete the sentence?

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: check; stem

Answer

The correct selections are the options corresponding to 'check' and 'stem'.
The sentence contrast signal ('Despite initial enthusiasm...') requires a word meaning to slow down, halt, or restrain development. Both 'check' and 'stem' share secondary definitions that mean to restrain or arrest progress, making both choices contextually and semantically appropriate.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence structure and logical signals
The sentence begins with the concession signal 'Despite initial enthusiasm', indicating a reversal in tone. The regulators' action must contrast with rapid expansion.
Identifying the structural signal clarifies that the required word must mean to limit, halt, or restrain growth.
2
Evaluate candidate words for secondary meanings fitting the context
Both 'check' (meaning to restrain or arrest progress) and 'stem' (meaning to stop or hold back growth) fit the requirement precisely.
Polysemous words often have obscure secondary meanings that fulfill specific contextual demands on the GRE.
3
Eliminate distractors based on primary definition traps
'Inspect' uses a primary definition trap of 'check', while 'plant' uses a primary definition trap of 'stem'. 'Cultivate' creates a logical contradiction.
Distractor analysis ensures that options relying solely on colloquial or irrelevant primary definitions are rejected.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings of Polysemous Words
Question 5Question

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 6Question

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 7Question

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 8Question

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 9Question

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 10Question

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 11Question

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 12Question

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 13Question

During the rigorous peer-review process for the archival journal, the chief editor maintained an unyielding stance on methodological precision; she would __________ no deviation from established statistical protocols, regardless of how prestigious the contributing author might be.

Which of the following words, if inserted into the blank, logically complete the sentence by expressing that the editor would not tolerate such deviations? Select all that apply.

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: brook; countenance

Answer

The correct words to fill the blank are 'brook' and 'countenance'. Both words act as verbs in this context meaning to tolerate, permit, or allow, creating identical and coherent sentence meanings.
The sentence describes an editor with an 'unyielding stance' who refuses to accept any departure from protocol. Both 'brook' and 'countenance' serve as verbs meaning to tolerate, endure, or permit. When combined with 'no deviation', both choices produce logically equivalent sentences expressing that the editor would not tolerate any deviation.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze structural clues and sentence tone
The semi-colon signals an elaboration of the editor's 'unyielding stance on methodological precision'. The phrase 'would __________ no deviation' requires a verb that means tolerate, permit, or sanction.
Establishing the precise semantic role of the blank prevents choosing words with incompatible valence or meaning.
2
Identify secondary definitions of polysemous words among choices
'Brook' is commonly a noun (a small stream), but its secondary verb definition means to tolerate or put up with. 'Countenance' is commonly a noun (facial expression), but its secondary verb definition means to permit, sanction, or approve.
GRE Text Completion questions targeting polysemy frequently use common nouns in their lesser-known verbal forms.
3
Eliminate distractors based on primary definition traps and connotation mismatches
'Stream' and 'visage' target the primary noun meanings of 'brook' and 'countenance' respectively. 'Champion' implies active advocacy, which contradicts the negative construction ('no deviation').
Eliminating false traps verifies that only 'brook' and 'countenance' satisfy the contextual requirements.

Key Concept

Polysemy and secondary meanings of common words in academic text completion
Question 14Question

During the panel on theoretical physics, the lead researcher was careful to ________ her sweeping claims regarding cosmic inflation, acknowledging that incoming observational data necessitated strict contextual limits on the hypothesis. Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: qualify

Answer

The word 'qualify' correctly completes the sentence by matching its secondary meaning of limiting or modifying a statement.
The sentence requires a verb meaning to limit or moderate broad assertions. The secondary definition of 'qualify' is to modify or restrict a statement to make it less general, perfectly matching the contextual clue of applying strict limits.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze structural and contextual clues in the sentence stem.
The clause 'acknowledging that incoming observational data necessitated strict contextual limits' indicates that the blank must describe the act of limiting or moderating broad assertions.
The sentence provides a direct elaboration of the action taken regarding the sweeping claims.
2
Evaluate the vocabulary options against the required secondary meaning.
While 'qualify' primarily means to meet requirements or gain a credential, its high-frequency secondary GRE definition is 'to limit, modify, or restrict the scope of a statement'.
Only this secondary definition fits the logical requirement of adding limits to sweeping claims.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings and Polysemy
Question 15Question

In theoretical astrophysics, the lead investigator noted that while the unified field equations successfully accounted for classical gravity, upcoming high-resolution observations might compel scientists to ________ their conclusions regarding cosmic inflation. Which of the following words, if inserted into the sentence, logically complete the passage by indicating that scientists must limit or restrict the scope of their claims? Select all that apply.

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: qualify; hedge

Answer

The words 'qualify' and 'hedge' correctly complete the sentence.
Both 'qualify' and 'hedge' are correct because their secondary definitions precisely mean to limit, moderate, or place conditions on an assertion. The sentence structure requires verbs that indicate scientists must temper their cosmological claims in light of prospective empirical anomalies.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze structural clues and sentence polarity
The clause begins with 'while', setting up a concession: despite the equations accounting for classical gravity, upcoming observations 'might compel scientists to ________ their conclusions'. This signals a shift toward introducing caution or restriction rather than full endorsement.
Contrast indicators establish that the blank must express a moderation or limitation of the scientists' initial claims.
2
Evaluate word meanings in context
'Qualify' in its secondary definition means to limit, modify, or restrict a statement. 'Hedge' similarly means to limit or guard an assertion by adding caveats. Both words fit the required secondary meaning.
Both terms successfully complete the sentence with equivalent nuance.
3
Eliminate incorrect distractors
'Substantiate' and 'ratify' inappropriately strengthen the claim, missing the concession signal. 'Discount' incorrectly implies total dismissal rather than moderate qualification.
Distractors either fail to match the required tone shift or alter the intended degree of moderation.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings and Polysemy in Context
Question 16Question

While the principal investigator expressed general agreement with the proposed climate model, she felt obliged to ________ her endorsement during the symposium, noting that the model's predictive accuracy diminishes significantly when applied to high-altitude regions. Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: qualify

Answer

The word 'qualify' best completes the sentence, as its secondary meaning is to limit, modify, or add conditions to a claim or opinion.
The correct response is 'qualify'. In academic and GRE-level discourse, 'qualify' frequently carries a secondary definition meaning to limit, modify, or render a statement less absolute. Given that the investigator expressed general agreement but pointed out a specific limitation regarding high-altitude predictive accuracy, she was qualifying her support.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze structural transition and logical clues in the sentence stem.
The opening concessive conjunction 'While' establishes a contrast between the investigator's 'general agreement' and the action she took during the symposium.
Understanding sentence structure reveals that the blank must describe an action that modifies or moderates her overall agreement.
2
Evaluate the context provided by the second clause.
The phrase 'noting that the model's predictive accuracy diminishes significantly when applied to high-altitude regions' specifies the exact limitation she placed on her agreement.
The blank must express the act of adding conditions, reservations, or limitations to a statement.
3
Select the polysemous word that fits the secondary definition requirement.
While 'qualify' commonly means to meet standard requirements or become certified, its specialized/secondary definition in scholarly discourse is to limit, restrict, or modify a statement.
Using 'qualify' precisely matches the requirement to indicate a moderated or conditional endorsement.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings and Polysemy
Question 17Question

To prevent severe ecological depletion during periods of prolonged drought, regional agricultural authorities advised farmers that they must ________ their consumption of groundwater, restricting usage strictly to essential crops. Which of the following words, if inserted into the sentence, appropriately complete the meaning of the passage? Select all that apply.

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: husband; check

Answer

The correct choices are 'husband' and 'check'.
The sentence establishes an imperative for farmers to curtail groundwater consumption to avoid ecological damage. The options meaning 'husband' (to manage economically or conserve) and 'check' (to limit or restrain) both satisfy the required meaning of conservative resource management.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze sentence context and logical direction
The phrase 'to prevent severe ecological depletion' and the modifying clause 'restricting usage strictly to essential crops' signal that the missing verb must mean to limit, curb, or carefully conserve groundwater.
Establishing contextual constraints is necessary before evaluating vocabulary options.
2
Evaluate target vocabulary for secondary polysemous definitions
'Husband' (as a verb) means to manage or use resources economically and conservatively. 'Check' (as a verb) means to restrain or hold in check.
Both words possess secondary definitions that align precisely with the requirement to restrict consumption.
3
Eliminate incorrect distractors
'Broadcast' (scatter widely), 'foster' (encourage growth), and 'exploit' (take full advantage of) either reverse the required meaning or violate the conservative tone.
Distractors represent primary definition traps or semantic reversals.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings of Polysemous Words
Question 18Question

Despite the sudden influx of international grant funding intended to accelerate the ecological restoration project, the lead conservation scientist insisted that the team must carefully ________ their remaining technical resources, recognizing that over-expenditure in the initial phase would leave the initiative vulnerable to long-term operational failure.

Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: husband

Answer

The word 'husband' best completes the sentence, as its secondary verb definition means to manage or use resources carefully and economically.
The correct choice is 'husband'. While most commonly encountered as a noun, as a verb 'husband' means to manage resources frugally and economically. Given the scientist's warning that over-expenditure in the early phase would cause long-term operational failure, the scientist insists that the team must carefully conserve their remaining technical resources.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence structure and identify contextual clues.
The sentence presents a contrast between a 'sudden influx of grant funding' and a warning that 'over-expenditure... would leave the initiative vulnerable to long-term operational failure'.
Recognizing the risk of over-expenditure indicates that the missing word must describe an action aimed at conserving or prudently managing resources.
2
Determine the required definition for the blank.
The target word must function as a verb meaning to conserve, save, or manage frugally.
This directly fulfills the scientist's demand to safeguard remaining technical assets.
3
Evaluate the choices for secondary definitions of polysemous words.
The word 'husband' functions as a verb meaning to manage prudently or conserve, fitting the context precisely.
Test takers often fall into a primary definition trap by expecting 'husband' to function only as a noun referring to a married spouse.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings and Polysemy
Estimated Time:1m 30s
Question 19Question

During the preliminary evidentiary hearing, the defense attorney elected to ________ several key affidavits that directly contradicted the prosecution's primary timeline, hoping the judge would admit them into the record. Which of the following words best completes the sentence?

Show answer & explanation

Answer: tender

Answer

The word 'tender' best completes the sentence, as its secondary verb definition means to formally offer or submit documents for acceptance.
The correct answer is the verb 'tender'. In legal and formal contexts, to 'tender' means to present, offer, or submit something (such as evidence, payment, or a resignation) for official consideration or acceptance. This precisely matches the defense attorney's action of offering affidavits to be admitted into the court record.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence structure and contextual clues.
The clause 'hoping the judge would admit them into the record' indicates that the attorney is formally submitting or presenting documents to the court.
Understanding the contextual goal determines the required semantic meaning for the blank.
2
Evaluate the vocabulary choices for a secondary definition match.
While 'tender' is commonly recognized as an adjective meaning gentle or delicate, its secondary verb definition specifically means 'to offer or submit formally' (e.g., tendering evidence or tendering a resignation).
GRE Text Completion questions frequently test high-frequency polysemous words in their less familiar secondary senses.
3
Eliminate incorrect distractors.
'Soften' plays into a primary definition trap; 'withhold' opposes the logical intent; 'fabricate' adds an unindicated illegal connotation; and 'publicize' misinterprets courtroom submission as media broadcasting.
Cross-checking options ensures that distractors fail either contextually, logically, or definitionally.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings of Polysemous Words
Question 20Question

While the monarch's public declarations emphasized fiscal leniency during the famine, the imperial treasury ministers continued to ________ severe tributes from the provincial governors, enforcing full payment under threat of military intervention. Which of the following words, if inserted into the blank, would logically complete the sentence? Select all that apply.

Select all that apply

Show answer & explanation

Answer: exact; extract

Answer

The words 'exact' and 'extract' both correctly complete the sentence by expressing the action of demanding and compelling payment of tributes.
The contrast established by the concession clause ('While the monarch's public declarations emphasized fiscal leniency...') indicates that the treasury ministers were harsh and unyielding in gathering funds. The blank requires a verb meaning to forcibly demand or collect payment. The word 'exact' used as a transitive verb means to demand and compel payment or compliance (e.g., 'to exact tribute'). Similarly, 'extract' means to obtain something through effort, force, or demand. Both words fit the context seamlessly.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context and structural contrast.
The sentence sets up a contrast between the monarch's public claims of 'leniency' and the treasury ministers' actual harsh actions of 'enforcing full payment under threat of military intervention'.
The blank requires a verb that signifies forcibly demanding, compelling, or collecting financial payments/tributes.
2
Evaluate the polysemous word 'exact'.
'Exact' is commonly used as an adjective meaning 'precise', but its obscure secondary verb form means 'to demand and compel payment or yield of something'.
This secondary meaning perfectly matches the context of ministers compelling payment under threat of force.
3
Evaluate remaining options for contextual and semantic fit.
'Extract' also means to forcibly demand or obtain payment. Options like 'specify', 'verify', and 'clarify' stem from primary-definition traps associated with precision and accuracy.
Only 'exact' and 'extract' capture the necessary sense of forced collection.

Key Concept

Secondary Meanings and Polysemy
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