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Question

Difficulty: EasyWords in Context: Connotation and Tone

In his field journal, botanist Liam Thorne describes the newly discovered orchid species not as a delicate curiosity, but as a robust survivor. He notes that the flower thrives in the most arid, rocky soils of the mountain range, showing a remarkable ability to withstand extreme temperatures. Consequently, Thorne views the orchid's presence in this harsh environment as a ______ testament to the resilience of desert life.

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

  1. A
    rigid
  2. B
    delicate
  3. powerfulAnswer
  4. D
    hostile

Answer

powerful
The passage describes the orchid in admiring terms, emphasizing its ability to thrive in harsh conditions and survive where others fail. The word 'powerful' carries a positive connotation of strength and significance that aligns with this focus on resilience.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the tone and context of the passage.
The passage describes the orchid in positive, admiring terms ('robust survivor,' 'thrives,' 'remarkable ability,' 'resilience').
Understanding the author's attitude towards the subject helps determine the correct connotation of the missing word.
2
Identify the function of the blank.
The blank modifies 'testament,' describing Thorne's view of the orchid's survival in a harsh environment.
Since the testament is to the 'resilience of desert life,' the blank requires a word with a positive connotation of strength or impact.
3
Evaluate the choices against the context.
The word 'powerful' fits the positive connotation of strength, while the others either mismatch the connotation, contradict explicit details, or use an irrelevant definition.
Comparing options ensures the most precise fit for connotation and tone.

Key Concept

Identifying contextual connotation and tone to select the most precise word.
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Words in Context: Connotation and Tone

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