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SAT Practice Test Part 4

Question 1:

Early critiques of the policy often _______ its potential benefits, whereas newer analyses have highlighted its positive impacts. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) abated
B) obfuscated
C) underestimated
D) extolled

Answer Explanation:
Choice C is the best answer because “underestimated” suggests that the potential benefits were not fully recognized in earlier critiques, which contrasts with newer analyses acknowledging its positive impacts.
Choice A is incorrect because “abated” means to become less strong, which doesn’t fit the context of recognizing potential benefits.
Choice B is incorrect because “obfuscated” means to make less clear, which does not align with the idea of shifting recognition of benefits.
Choice D is incorrect because “extolled” means to praise highly, which does not fit with the idea of past underestimation.


Question 2:

The museum’s collection is known for its _______ range of artifacts, from ancient relics to modern art. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) eclectic
B) homogeneous
C) insipid
D) redundant

Answer Explanation:
Choice A is the best answer because “eclectic” means consisting of different types or styles, which fits the context of a varied collection.
Choice B is incorrect because “homogeneous” means uniform or the same throughout, which does not fit the context of a diverse collection.
Choice C is incorrect because “insipid” means dull or lacking flavor, which is unrelated to the context of a collection.
Choice D is incorrect because “redundant” means unnecessary repetition, which does not fit the context of diversity in a collection.


Question 3:

The politician’s speeches were criticized for being too _______ and failing to address the real issues. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) grandiloquent
B) laconic
C) mundane
D) succinct

Answer Explanation:
Choice A is the best answer because “grandiloquent” means using elaborate or pompous language, which fits the context of failing to address real issues.
Choice B is incorrect because “laconic” means using very few words, which does not align with the idea of elaborate or pompous language.
Choice C is incorrect because “mundane” means dull or ordinary, which does not fit with the idea of elaborate language.
Choice D is incorrect because “succinct” means clearly expressed in few words, which contrasts with the idea of overly elaborate language.


Question 4:

The company’s new policy was intended to _______ the need for excessive bureaucracy and streamline operations. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) exacerbate
B) alleviate
C) obfuscate
D) propagate

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “alleviate” means to make something less severe, which fits the context of reducing bureaucracy.
Choice A is incorrect because “exacerbate” means to make something worse, which does not fit the goal of reducing bureaucracy.
Choice C is incorrect because “obfuscate” means to make something less clear, which does not fit with the idea of streamlining operations.
Choice D is incorrect because “propagate” means to spread or promote, which does not fit the context of reducing bureaucracy.


Question 5:

The artist’s work was noted for its _______ use of color, which captivated audiences with its vibrant and intricate details. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) insipid
B) vivid
C) somber
D) monochromatic

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “vivid” means very bright and distinct in color, which fits the description of captivating and detailed artwork.
Choice A is incorrect because “insipid” means lacking flavor or interest, which does not fit with vibrant and intricate details.
Choice C is incorrect because “somber” means dark and dull, which contrasts with vibrant and intricate colors.
Choice D is incorrect because “monochromatic” means having one color or shades of one color, which does not fit with the idea of vibrant details.


Question 6:

Despite the project’s initial setbacks, the team remained _______ and continued to work towards their goal. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) obdurate
B) vacillating
C) complacent
D) indolent

Answer Explanation:
Choice A is the best answer because “obdurate” means being stubbornly persistent, which fits with the idea of continuing to work towards a goal despite setbacks.
Choice B is incorrect because “vacillating” means wavering between different opinions or actions, which does not fit with persistence.
Choice C is incorrect because “complacent” means self-satisfied, which does not fit with the idea of continued effort.
Choice D is incorrect because “indolent” means lazy, which contrasts with persistent effort.


Question 7:

The director’s new film received _______ reviews from critics, who praised its originality and depth. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) scurrilous
B) laudatory
C) pejorative
D) nebulous

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “laudatory” means expressing praise and admiration, which fits with the positive reviews for the film.
Choice A is incorrect because “scurrilous” means making scandalous claims, which does not fit with positive reviews.
Choice C is incorrect because “pejorative” means expressing disapproval, which is opposite to positive reviews.
Choice D is incorrect because “nebulous” means vague, which does not align with praising the film.


Question 8:

Her comments during the debate were intended to _______ her opponent’s arguments and sway public opinion in her favor. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) exacerbate
B) bolster
C) undermine
D) embellish

Answer Explanation:
Choice C is the best answer because “undermine” means to weaken or damage, which fits with the intention of detracting from the opponent’s arguments.
Choice A is incorrect because “exacerbate” means to make worse, which does not fit with weakening arguments.
Choice B is incorrect because “bolster” means to support, which is opposite to weakening.
Choice D is incorrect because “embellish” means to make something more attractive, which does not fit the context of weakening arguments.


Question 9:

The novel’s plot was so _______ that readers found it hard to follow the main storyline. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) transparent
B) convoluted
C) straightforward
D) lucid

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “convoluted” means extremely complex and difficult to follow, which fits with a hard-to-follow plot.
Choice A is incorrect because “transparent” means clear and easy to understand, which is opposite to the context.
Choice C is incorrect because “straightforward” means simple and clear, which does not fit with a difficult plot.
Choice D is incorrect because “lucid” means clear and easy to understand, which does not fit with a hard-to-follow storyline.


Question 10:

The decision to _______ the research project was met with disappointment by the team members who had invested considerable time and effort. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) rescind
B) prolong
C) expedite
D) inaugurate

Answer Explanation:
Choice A is the best answer because “rescind” means to cancel or revoke, which fits with the context of disappointing a team.
Choice B is incorrect because “prolong” means to extend, which does not fit with the idea of canceling.
Choice C is incorrect because “expedite” means to speed up, which is opposite to canceling.
Choice D is incorrect because “inaugurate” means to begin or introduce, which does not fit with canceling the project.


Question 11:

The professor’s _______ approach to teaching made complex concepts accessible and engaging for students. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) abstruse
B) didactic
C) obfuscating
D) pedantic

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “didactic” means intended to teach or instruct, which fits with making complex concepts accessible.
Choice A is incorrect because “abstruse” means difficult to understand, which is opposite to making concepts accessible.
Choice C is incorrect because “obfuscating” means making something unclear, which does not fit with an engaging approach.
Choice D is incorrect because “pedantic” means overly concerned with minor details, which does not necessarily make concepts accessible.


Question 12:

The sudden appearance of the rare bird was considered a _______ event, as it had not been seen in the area for decades. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) quotidian
B) serendipitous
C) mundane
D) predictable

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “serendipitous” means occurring by chance in a happy or beneficial way, which fits with the rare bird’s unexpected appearance.
Choice A is incorrect because “quotidian” means occurring daily, which does not fit with the rarity of the event.
Choice C is incorrect because “mundane” means ordinary, which does not fit with the rarity of the appearance.
Choice D is incorrect because “predictable” means able to be anticipated, which does not fit with the unexpected nature of the event.


Question 13:

The CEO’s ability to _______ the company’s strategic direction helped it navigate through the economic downturn effectively. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) obfuscate
B) elucidate
C) divert
D) convolute

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “elucidate” means to make something clear, which fits with guiding the company’s direction effectively.
Choice A is incorrect because “obfuscate” means to make unclear, which does not fit with guiding the company.
Choice C is incorrect because “divert” means to change direction, which does not fit with clarifying strategic direction.
Choice D is incorrect because “convolute” means to make something complex, which does not align with effective guidance.


Question 14:

The old theater’s restoration was praised for its _______ attention to preserving the building’s original features and character. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) cursory
B) meticulous
C) superficial
D) negligent

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “meticulous” means showing great attention to detail, which fits with preserving the building’s original features.
Choice A is incorrect because “cursory” means hasty and lacking attention to detail, which does not fit with the praised restoration.
Choice C is incorrect because “superficial” means shallow and lacking depth, which does not fit with detailed preservation.
Choice D is incorrect because “negligent” means failing to take proper care, which is opposite to the praised attention.


Question 15:

The novel’s _______ characters and settings provide a rich tapestry for exploring themes of identity and belonging. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) bland
B) vivid
C) trite
D) insipid

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “vivid” means producing powerful feelings or strong, clear images, which fits with a rich exploration of themes.
Choice A is incorrect because “bland” means lacking flavor or interest, which does not fit with a rich tapestry.
Choice C is incorrect because “trite” means overused and lacking originality, which does not fit with richness in exploration.
Choice D is incorrect because “insipid” means dull and lacking flavor, which contrasts with a rich tapestry.


Question 16:

The new policy was designed to _______ the bureaucratic red tape that had previously slowed down progress. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) exacerbate
B) circumvent
C) proliferate
D) enforce

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “circumvent” means to find a way around or avoid, which fits with the goal of reducing bureaucratic obstacles.
Choice A is incorrect because “exacerbate” means to make worse, which does not fit with the idea of reducing red tape.
Choice C is incorrect because “proliferate” means to increase rapidly, which does not fit with reducing obstacles.
Choice D is incorrect because “enforce” means to implement or apply, which is not related to reducing red tape.


Question 17:

The artist’s technique of _______ light and shadow created a dramatic effect in the painting. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) juxtaposing
B) diffusing
C) obfuscating
D) integrating

Answer Explanation:
Choice A is the best answer because “juxtaposing” means placing things side by side, which fits with creating a dramatic effect using light and shadow.
Choice B is incorrect because “diffusing” means spreading out, which does not fit with creating a dramatic contrast.
Choice C is incorrect because “obfuscating” means making something unclear, which does not fit with creating a dramatic effect.
Choice D is incorrect because “integrating” means combining parts into a whole, which does not specifically relate to creating contrast.


Question 18:

The detective’s _______ methods allowed him to uncover crucial evidence that others had missed. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) meticulous
B) hasty
C) sporadic
D) cursory

Answer Explanation:
Choice A is the best answer because “meticulous” means showing great attention to detail, which fits with uncovering crucial evidence.
Choice B is incorrect because “hasty” means done quickly without careful thought, which does not fit with thorough investigation.
Choice C is incorrect because “sporadic” means occurring irregularly, which does not align with thorough methods.
Choice D is incorrect because “cursory” means hasty and superficial, which contrasts with careful and detailed investigation.


Question 19:

The debate on the new law became increasingly _______ as opposing sides grew more passionate and unyielding. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) serene
B) cordial
C) acrimonious
D) placid

Answer Explanation:
Choice C is the best answer because “acrimonious” means full of bitterness or conflict, which fits with a heated debate.
Choice A is incorrect because “serene” means calm and peaceful, which contrasts with a contentious debate.
Choice B is incorrect because “cordial” means friendly and warm, which does not fit with increasing passion and conflict.
Choice D is incorrect because “placid” means calm and undisturbed, which does not fit with an increasingly contentious debate.


Question 20:

The architect’s design was lauded for its _______ use of space, creating a harmonious and functional living environment. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) utilitarian
B) extravagant
C) chaotic
D) minimalist

Answer Explanation:
Choice A is the best answer because “utilitarian” means designed to be useful rather than decorative, which fits with a functional living environment.
Choice B is incorrect because “extravagant” means excessive or elaborate, which does not fit with functional use of space.
Choice C is incorrect because “chaotic” means disordered or confused, which does not fit with harmonious design.
Choice D is incorrect because “minimalist” means simple and without unnecessary elements, which does not specifically address the functional aspect.


Question 21:

The chef’s _______ dishes always featured unexpected flavor combinations that delighted diners. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) mundane
B) inventive
C) routine
D) monotonous

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “inventive” means showing creativity or originality, which fits with unexpected flavor combinations.
Choice A is incorrect because “mundane” means dull and ordinary, which does not fit with creativity.
Choice C is incorrect because “routine” means habitual and unchanging, which contrasts with the idea of unexpected combinations.
Choice D is incorrect because “monotonous” means repetitive and boring, which does not fit with delightful and creative dishes.


Question 22:

The new policy was designed to _______ the amount of paperwork required, making processes more efficient. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) increase
B) diminish
C) exacerbate
D) obscure

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “diminish” means to reduce, which fits with reducing paperwork and making processes more efficient.
Choice A is incorrect because “increase” means to make larger, which does not fit with the goal of reducing paperwork.
Choice C is incorrect because “exacerbate” means to make worse, which is opposite to the goal of improving efficiency.
Choice D is incorrect because “obscure” means to make less clear, which does not align with improving efficiency.


Question 23:

Her sudden resignation left the team in a state of _______ as they scrambled to find a replacement. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) serenity
B) consternation
C) jubilation
D) equanimity

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “consternation” means a worried, sad feeling after you have received an unpleasant surprise, which fits with the team’s reaction.
Choice A is incorrect because “serenity” means calmness, which does not fit with the situation of scrambling to replace someone.
Choice C is incorrect because “jubilation” means great joy, which does not fit with the context of confusion and urgency.
Choice D is incorrect because “equanimity” means calmness and composure, which contrasts with the state of scrambling and concern.


Question 24:

The manager’s _______ approach to problem-solving allowed her to address complex issues effectively without becoming overwhelmed. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) frantic
B) methodical
C) erratic
D) superficial

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “methodical” means systematic and organized, which fits with effectively addressing complex issues.
Choice A is incorrect because “frantic” means wild and disorganized, which does not fit with effective problem-solving.
Choice C is incorrect because “erratic” means unpredictable and inconsistent, which does not align with effective problem-solving.
Choice D is incorrect because “superficial” means lacking depth, which does not fit with effectively addressing complex issues.


Question 25:

The scientist’s research was considered groundbreaking due to its _______ methodology, which challenged existing paradigms. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) innovative
B) conventional
C) routine
D) simplistic

Answer Explanation:
Choice A is the best answer because “innovative” means introducing new ideas or methods, which fits with challenging existing paradigms.
Choice B is incorrect because “conventional” means traditional or usual, which does not fit with groundbreaking research.
Choice C is incorrect because “routine” means ordinary and habitual, which does not align with groundbreaking work.
Choice D is incorrect because “simplistic” means oversimplified, which does not fit with challenging existing paradigms.


Question 26:

The diplomat’s _______ negotiation style helped to bridge the gap between the conflicting parties and reach a consensus. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) abrasive
B) conciliatory
C) antagonistic
D) rigid

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “conciliatory” means intended to make peace and bring opposing parties together, which fits with bridging gaps and reaching consensus.
Choice A is incorrect because “abrasive” means causing irritation or conflict, which does not fit with peaceful negotiation.
Choice C is incorrect because “antagonistic” means hostile or opposed, which contrasts with achieving consensus.
Choice D is incorrect because “rigid” means inflexible, which does not fit with effective negotiation.


Question 27:

The young author’s _______ writing style captivated readers with its fresh perspective and innovative approach. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) conventional
B) pedestrian
C) novel
D) derivative

Answer Explanation:
Choice C is the best answer because “novel” means new and original, which fits with captivating readers through a fresh perspective.
Choice A is incorrect because “conventional” means traditional and unoriginal, which does not fit with a fresh and innovative approach.
Choice B is incorrect because “pedestrian” means lacking excitement or originality, which contrasts with a captivating style.
Choice D is incorrect because “derivative” means unoriginal and based on something else, which does not align with an innovative approach.


Question 28:

The philanthropist was admired for her _______ generosity, which made a significant impact on the community. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) sporadic
B) meager
C) abundant
D) inconsequential

Answer Explanation:
Choice C is the best answer because “abundant” means plentiful and more than enough, which fits with making a significant impact through generosity.
Choice A is incorrect because “sporadic” means occurring irregularly, which does not fit with the idea of significant impact.
Choice B is incorrect because “meager” means insufficient or inadequate, which contrasts with significant impact.
Choice D is incorrect because “inconsequential” means not important, which does not fit with making a significant impact.


Question 29:

The historical novel’s _______ depiction of the era brought to life the complexities and nuances of the time. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) superficial
B) accurate
C) distorted
D) generic

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “accurate” means correct and precise, which fits with a detailed depiction of the era.
Choice A is incorrect because “superficial” means shallow, which does not fit with capturing complexities and nuances.
Choice C is incorrect because “distorted” means altered or misleading, which contrasts with a true depiction.
Choice D is incorrect because “generic” means lacking uniqueness or detail, which does not fit with a nuanced depiction.


Question 30:

The company’s _______ growth over the past decade has been remarkable, reflecting its strong market position and innovative strategies. Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase? A) sluggish
B) exponential
C) negligible
D) gradual

Answer Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer because “exponential” means increasing rapidly and significantly, which fits with remarkable growth.
Choice A is incorrect because “sluggish” means slow-moving, which contrasts with remarkable growth.
Choice C is incorrect because “negligible” means insignificant, which does not fit with notable growth.
Choice D is incorrect because “gradual” means slow and steady, which is less fitting with the idea of remarkable growth.

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