Michigan ECPE English Usage Practice — All Questions
5 questions
Her argument was so ___ that even her critics were persuaded. Which word fits best?
- a.tedious
- b.dubious
- c.cogent✓
- d.trivial
'Cogent' means clear, logical, and convincing, which fits persuading even critics. 'Dubious' means doubtful and 'trivial' means unimportant, both of which contradict the sentence.
The negotiations reached an ___ when neither side would compromise. Which word fits best?
- a.outset
- b.impasse✓
- c.influx
- d.upsurge
An 'impasse' is a deadlock where no progress is possible, which matches neither side compromising. 'Outset' means a beginning, and 'influx' and 'upsurge' refer to increases.
The critic's review was scathing, leaving the author feeling utterly ___. Which word fits best?
- a.elated
- b.indifferent
- c.vindicated
- d.demoralised✓
A 'scathing' (harshly critical) review would leave the author 'demoralised', meaning discouraged. 'Elated' and 'vindicated' are positive, and 'indifferent' means unconcerned.
The senator's evasive answers only served to ___ public suspicion. Which word fits best?
- a.fuel✓
- b.quell
- c.dispel
- d.allay
'Fuel' means to intensify, which fits evasive answers increasing suspicion. 'Quell', 'dispel', and 'allay' all mean to reduce or calm, the opposite of what the sentence implies.
Despite the setback, she remained ___ in her pursuit of the record. Which word fits best?
- a.fickle
- b.undaunted✓
- c.reluctant
- d.apathetic
'Undaunted' means not discouraged by difficulty, which fits continuing despite a setback. 'Fickle', 'reluctant', and 'apathetic' all suggest wavering or lack of commitment.