A “skeptical” person is doubtful, unconvinced, or "cynical." As for the other answer choices, “gullible” means easily tricked; “expressive” means showing emotion, inclined to express themselves, or not reserved; “reflective” means thoughtful, introspective, and thinking about things; and “nostalgic” means fondly remembering the past.

“Venerable" means distinguished, eminent, and deserving intense respect, so "eminent" (widely known and respected for achievements and work in some specific area) is the correct answer. As for the other answer choices, “dilapidated” means in a state of disrepair or falling apart; “obligatory” means required; “perverse” means showing a desire to do something undesirable; “sophisticated” means elegant and cosmopolitan or complex and advanced.

“Lax” means negligent, not giving enough attention to something, or not taking something seriously enough, so "negligent" is the best synonym amongst the answer choices. As for the other answer choices, “odious” means unpleasant, revolting, or disgusting; “prolific” means able to produce a large quantity of something quickly; “tedious” means dull and boring; and “remorseless” means not feeling guilty about one's actions.

The word "resolute" is related to the same base words as "resolution" and "resolve." When we make "New Year's resolutions", we make up our minds that we are going to do some particular thing during the upcoming year. We strongly will to undertake these resolutions and at least intend to follow the path to their success without "turning aside". When someone has a resolute personality, that person is determined to succeed at whatever tasks he or she sets before himself or herself. Such a person could be called "steadfast", meaning determined or resolute.

The word "despicable" comes from Latin roots that literally mean to look down on. The "de-" prefix is found in English words like "descend" and "condescend," both of which indicate downward motion (either literally or figuratively). The "-spic-" root is related to words like "spectacle" and "spectator", both of which deal with seeing or things to be seen. Thus, to be "despicable" is to be worthy of being disliked greatly. Such a person is "looked down upon" (metaphorically speaking). Thus, the best option among those provided is "reprehensible", meaning worthy of condemnation. Notice, being despicable may mean that a person is worthy of being condemned; however, despicable does not directly mean "to condemn."

Generally speaking, it is not a kind thing to call someone "fickle." A fickle person is someone who changes often. A fickle person may change his or her friends often. A scholar who is fickle may change his or her interests often. Thus, we can call such a person "variable." Yes, this word can be used as a noun (as when we speak of mathematical variables), but it can also be an adjective meaning changing. Think of words like "varying" and "various."

When something is lavish, it is expensive and ornate; however this does not necessarily mean that it is overpriced.  Sometimes a very fine thing is just expensive. The beauty and craftsmanship of an expensive piece of furniture may well justify its cost. Thus, it is not overpriced; it is just expensive and beautiful. We can also describe someone who buys or gives out expensive, ornate things as being "lavish." Such a person is "liberal." This has nothing to do with political affiliations. It has everything to do with being "free" with one's money. "Liberal" comes from the same root as "liberty." Thus, a lavish person is "liberal." "Liberality" is the character trait of giving such lavish gifts.

When someone is skeptical, that person has many doubts. For instance, we could say, "Although many people are sure that America went to the moon, a small group of skeptical people maintain that this was not the case—in spite of the evidence to the contrary." Such people continually doubt the fact. Thus, among the options provided for this question at least, we could describe them as being "suspicious". While we often call atheists and agnostics "skeptics", this is a particular kind of skepticism, not the more general notion of skepticism as meaning doubting anything.

When someone is a fraud, that person is untruthful about his or her abilities. "Fraudulent" activities are ones that are deceptive. Thus, someone might promise a great return on investments to a group of potential investors knowing that the investment will yield no such return. Such promises are fraudulent. Among the options provided, the best is "deceptive." "Insincere" is tempting, for insincere people are not always truthful; however it is one thing to be insincere by telling someone whom you dislike that you like them. It is another thing altogether to be fraudulent and deceptive in a planned manner. Deception describes active lying; insincerity is more about the manner in which a person behaves, and can be passive, or reflected simply in the manner in which a person interacts with others.

The word "juvenile" comes from the Latin root for young person. Thus, we often use the word "juvenile" to describe someone who is young. When this word is used to describe someone who is a bit older, it takes on the meaning of immature. The implication is that such a juvenile person does not act his or her age. Thus, the best option here is "immature."  While "boyish" might be tempting, this is not a good answer. To be "juvenile" means to be young. While a "boy" may be young, it does not make "boyish" to mean "being young." Of an older person, boyish may be a compliment, while juvenile is almost always a pejorative term for an adult.