Although the physical structures of the ancient Silk Road trading posts have largely succumbed to erosion, the cultural exchanges they facilitated have proved remarkably _______. Many contemporary culinary, musical, and linguistic traditions in Central Asia can be traced directly back to the interactions between merchants and locals during the peak of the trade network's activity.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
- Atransient
- enduringAnswer
- Cperipheral
- Dtentative
Answer
enduring
The correct answer is the word meaning lasting or long-lived. The passage sets up a contrast between the physical structures of the Silk Road trading posts, which have largely eroded, and the cultural exchanges, which have lasted into the modern era. The clue "contemporary culinary, musical, and linguistic traditions... can be traced directly back" indicates that these exchanges have persisted over a long period, making the word meaning lasting the most logical fit.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Identifying contextual clues and logical transitions to select precise vocabulary.