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Difficulty: MediumVocabulary and Word Meaning in Context

Read the passage excerpt below carefully and determine the contextual meaning of the boldfaced word. What word or phrase accurately captures its meaning in this context?

Answer:Excerpt: "During the initial phase of the reform agenda, public support was overwhelming; however, as implementation hurdles emerged and tangible results proved elusive, popular enthusiasm began to flag."

In the passage context above, the word flag means to 【decline】.

Answer

In this context, the word 'flag' means to decline, wane, weaken, or falter.
In the excerpt, the verb 'flag' describes how public enthusiasm diminished and lost momentum over time due to implementation challenges. Contextually appropriate synonyms include 'decline', 'wane', 'weaken', and 'falter'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the logical flow and contextual clues in the excerpt.
The clause opens by describing initial support as 'overwhelming', but the transition word 'however' signals an opposing trend caused by 'hurdles' and 'elusive' results.
Understanding structural contrast helps identify whether the target word carries a positive or negative connotation.
2
Determine the specific verbal meaning of 'flag' in relation to 'enthusiasm'.
Here, 'flag' is used as an intransitive verb meaning to lose vigor, decrease in intensity, or become weaker.
The noun phrase 'popular enthusiasm' paired with 'began to flag' describes a progressive drop in public commitment.

Key Concept

Contextual Word Meaning
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Vocabulary and Word Meaning in Context

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