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Difficulty: EasyWords in Context: High-Utility Vocabulary

Although many art historians view the transition from classical to modern painting styles as a sudden break with tradition, a close examination of late nineteenth-century works reveals a more ______ development. Many artists introduced experimental techniques slowly over several decades, maintaining traditional subjects while refining their methods.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

  1. A
    abrupt
  2. gradualAnswer
  3. C
    temporary
  4. D
    uniform

Answer

gradual
The correct answer is 'gradual'. The passage establishes a contrast between the view that the transition was a 'sudden break' and the reality revealed by works of the late nineteenth century. The text specifies that artists introduced experimental techniques 'slowly over several decades,' indicating that the development was slow and progressive rather than sudden. The word 'gradual' precisely fits this context.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context clues in the passage.
The passage contrasts a 'sudden break with tradition' with a different kind of development, which is described as artists introducing new techniques 'slowly over several decades.'
Identifying this contrast is necessary to determine what kind of word should fill the blank.
2
Evaluate the options to find the word that represents a slow, progressive change.
The word 'gradual' means proceeding by steps or degrees, which perfectly aligns with the slow and extended development described.
Selecting the word that fits both the grammatical function and semantic clues is the final step.

Key Concept

Using contextual clues (such as contrasts and descriptions of time) to determine the most precise vocabulary word.
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Topics

Words in Context: High-Utility Vocabulary

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