The key expression is “disappointing experiences,” implying that Laura had seen most enjoyments come to nothing. Such experiences would lead one to believe that happiness is not real or that it is an illusion; therefore, it is best described as “illusory.” The word “illus-” portion of the word actually comes from the Latin for “to play or mock,” so “illusory” is related to words like “ludicrous,” “elusive,” and “delusion.”

The use of the phrase “stark contrast” tells you that there must have been a massive difference between mainstream society and the hippie movement; the correct answer must reflect this. While "distinct" might look like a good answer, "polarized," which means characterized by extreme differences of opinion, is the most fitting answer, since it conveys a more intense difference than does "distinct." (In addition, "polarized" conveys a sense of something (e.g. a country) being made up of two or more very different aspects, whereas "distinct" would suggest that the country is different from something else, but does not suggest anything about its component parts.) As for the other answer choices, "mundane" means boring; "steadfast" means resolute; and "arrogant" means smug.

The second clause reveals that the first blank must describe how Mother Theresa’s behavior was kind and generous. The best answer choice is therefore magnanimous which means generous, high-minded, selfless and noble. Holistic refers to the consideration of all factors; inaudible describes something that cannot be heard; arrogant means cocky; polarizing means causes extreme division.

The sentence suggests that the French Revolution changed the whole future changed the whole future of European society. It must have therefore been an important occasion. Of the answer choices momentous best captures the implied importance. Momentous means highly significant. Irrelevant means not important; polarizing means extremely divisive; dismissive means to not consider something; introspective means reflective.

"Verbose" means wordy or long-winded. We know that the doctor "spent five whole minutes congratulating [the patient]" on his lifestyle changes, so "verbose" best fits the context of the sentence and is the correct answer.

Without the support of the congregation, the minister had to find new methods of fundraising. "Openly" and "bombastically" both make little sense with the sentence considering the congregation's lack of support. "Holistically" and "ambivalently" both communicate an inappropriate lack of resolve by the minister to be correct. "Covertly," meaning secretly, is the correct answer.

The opposition to note is that between the word to be chosen and the “grating and unmeasured voice” of David’s mother. In opposition to such an annoying voice, the best description of his grandmother’s voice would be “euphonious.” The word comes from Greek roots literally meaning “good sounding.” The prefix “eu-” can be found in “eulogy,” meaning “a good word (often spoken at a funeral) and “euphemism,” a type of word or expression that makes a more coarse expression seem less uncultured, for instance, the use of “to pass gas” for the crass word “to fart.” The “-phonious” portion means “sound.” It is found in words like “symphony,” meaning “sounding (often in the sense of ‘playing’) together” and “telephone.”

A white or light color in one’s cheeks is a symptom of sickness or ill-health, and “pallid” most closely means a paleness, typically attributed to poor health or sickness. The correct answer choice is "pallid."

Here the word “poor” indicates that the author is not very good; therefore, he must have written a good amount of material if it overshadows the quality of the material. Only "prodigious" means in a great amount.

The second clause in the sentence describes how Allison’s speech caused others to believe she was trying to show off. The correct answer is therefore “bombastic” which means to use language in a pompous manner to try and impress others. Lethargic means the opposite of energetic; reserved means aloof; detrimental means harmful or damaging.