*Answers are italicized.
11/5/10:
Q: What does “deleterious” mean?
A: a) removable b) helpful c) harmful d) comprehensible
The most deleterious consequence of drug abuse is death.
10/26/10:
Q: What does “rancor” mean?
A: a) loud noise b) hostility c) a stain d) selfish behavior
10/5/10:
Q: What does “paucity” mean?
A: a) a small amount or number b) bitterness c) caution d) solitude
Bob criticized Dave’s argument because of the paucity of evidence supporting his conclusion.
9/23/10:
Q: What does “solicitous” mean?
A: a) intruding b) harsh c) anxious or concerned d) generous
Dave just had a case of the sniffles, but his solicitous parents made him go to the emergency room.
9/13/10:
Q: What does “penchant” mean?
A: a) intense dislike b) a preference or tendency c) praise d) a common mistake
Allen has a penchant for strange hats and never leaves the house without wearing something on his head.
9/3/10:
Q: What does “venerate” mean?
A: a) to respect b) to lessen c) to improve d) to make more severe
8/26/10:
Q: What does “ingratiating” mean?
A: a) cruel b) unappreciative c) formal d) pleasing (especially to gain advantage)
Donna always becomes friendly and ingratiating whenever she’s about to ask me for money.
8/18/10:
Q: What does “harangue” mean?
A: a) a long, angry speech b) betrayal c) disposal d) a scary story
8/6/10:
Q: What does “austere” mean?
A: a) bitter-tasting b) strict or severe in discipline c) very talkative d) calm
7/30/10:
Q: What does “assiduous” mean?
A: a) luxurious b) hard-working c) bitter d) angry
7/28/10:
Q: What does “proliferate” mean?
A: a) to shrink b) to create c) to cease to exist d) to increase rapidly
7/26/10:
Q: What does “amalgam” mean?
A: a) a combination of diverse elements b) a large family gathering c) enthusiasm d) severe criticism
7/20/10
Q: What does “exacerbate” mean?
A: a) to cleanse b) to make more severe c) to speak loudly d) to invent
7/16/10:
Q: What does “acerbic” mean?
A: a) shy b) self-satisfied c) bitter d) excessively showy
7/2/10:
Q: What does “effusive” mean?
A: a) overflowing (usually referring to emotions b) separate; distinct c) friendly d) native