GRE Verbal : Conjunctions and Text Logic in One-Blank Texts
Study concepts, example questions & explanations for GRE Verbal
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Example Questions
Example Question #51 : Text Completion
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Although he seemed quite inflexible, Thomas was quite __________ and able to deal with any situation that came his way.
contentious
laconic
nugatory
judgmental
malleable
malleable
In contrast to being "inflexible," being "malleable" describes a temperament that literally is able to "bend" to the changing circumstances of life and living. The word is often used of substances—certain kinds of metal are more malleable than others. This contrast is indicated because of the introductory word "although." Although Thomas seemed to be one way—inflexible—he was in fact another—malleable.
Example Question #52 : Text Completion
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Ronald's friends were surprised at his recent __________ behavior, for they knew him to be a man of scrupulous conscience.
uncouth
iniquitous
irregular
mendacious
belittled
iniquitous
Of the wrong answers, the one that is perhaps somewhat appropriate—though not completely correct—is "mendacious," meaning pertaining to lying. A "mendacious person" is a liar. (Perhaps "uncouth"—lacking good manners—is a temptation as well.) The general point, however, is a contrast. Ronald's friends are surprised because he is not acting morally upright—what a person with a scrupulous conscience would do. Therefore, he is acting in an immoral way. To be iniquitous is to be just that. "Iniquity" is another name for very immoral or unfair behavior.
Example Question #53 : Text Completion
Choose the word or set of words that best completes the following sentence.
Although the boy was known for walking briskly everywhere he went, today he traveled at a pace that was quite __________.
irregular
expeditious
unpredictable
surprising
plodding
plodding
The word "although" at the beginning of the sentence is a trigger word telling you that the introductory clause is opposed to the main clause of the sentence. "Brisk" can describe cool weather but it also can mean fast. The contrast in this sentence is between the boy's normal quick pace and the blank that we have to fill. "Expeditious" is too synonymous with work. "Irregular" and "unpredictable" are not direct antonyms. "Surprising" is wholly off the mark. The best answer is "plodding"—meaning slowly moving.
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