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Difficulty: Very hardWords in Context: High-Utility Vocabulary

Although the 1993 peace accord was initially celebrated as a landmark agreement that would guarantee regional stability, diplomatic historians argue that its ambiguous terminology actually served to __________ the very peace it was designed to secure. By leaving key border disputes unresolved, the document allowed both nations to justify subsequent military mobilizations, ultimately accelerating the descent into open conflict.

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

  1. A
    arbitrate
  2. B
    concede
  3. compromiseAnswer
  4. D
    reinforce

Answer

compromise
The correct answer is 'compromise'. In this context, 'compromise' is used in its secondary sense, meaning to weaken, undermine, or expose to danger. The passage sets up a contrast between the initial celebration of the accord and the negative consequences of its 'ambiguous terminology,' which ultimately 'accelerated the descent into open conflict.' Therefore, the terminology undermined or compromised the peace.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context clues and transition words in the passage.
The passage begins with the concession 'Although the 1993 peace accord was initially celebrated,' indicating a contrast between the initial expectations of stability and the actual negative outcome.
Understanding the logical flow of the text helps determine the correct tone and meaning of the missing word.
2
Examine the specific effects of the ambiguous terminology described in the second sentence.
The text notes that the document 'allowed both nations to justify subsequent military mobilizations, ultimately accelerating the descent into open conflict.' This means the ambiguous terminology undermined or endangered the peace.
The correct word must mean to weaken or put at risk.
3
Evaluate the choices to find the word that precisely means to weaken, damage, or endanger.
The word 'compromise' means to expose to danger or undermine, which fits the context perfectly. Other choices like 'arbitrate' or 'concede' are diplomatically themed but contextually incorrect, and 'reinforce' contradicts the passage's negative outcome.
This identifies the most precise and contextually appropriate vocabulary word.

Key Concept

Determining the contextual meaning of a word using contrast and detail clues in a passage.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Words in Context: High-Utility Vocabulary

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