If you are “servile,” you are obedient and trying very hard to please. If you are “subservient,” you are very willing to obey someone. “Servile” and “subservient” are synonyms and are both linked to the root word "serve." To clarify the other terms, “sequinned” means ornamented with sequins, which are small reflective discs; a “tunic” is a garment that is worn like a cloak or a dress; “disgusting” means gross. 

To “pontificate” is to speak about something in a way that shows you think you are always right. The word comes from the root “pontiff” meaning pope, so it means to talk like the Pope. If you “sermonize,” then you give advice on moral behavior to someone. To clarify the other terms, “harmonize” is to combine in a pleasing way; to “despise” is to hate.  

The prefix mono- means one, and the suffix -graph means related to writing so a “monograph” is writing on one topic. To provide further help, “habitual” means done through habit, done regularly. 

The prefix ab- means away so you can infer that the meaning of the word “absent” probably has something to do with being away. To be “absent” means to be “missing,” which is similar to being away. To provide further help, “derided” means mocked, made fun of; “wily” means crafty, clever, creative in a sneaky sense; “brittle” means fragile, easily broken; if you are “sensible,” it means you have and exhibit good sense, and you make the right decisions. 

A "circumference" is the length of a line that goes around something or that makes a circle or other round shape or the outer edge of a shape or area. We can get this meaning from the prefix "circum-," which usually means around, as in the word "circumnavigate," which means go around something. A "perimeter" is the outside edge of an area or surface, so it is the answer choice closest in meaning to "circumference."

The prefix ab- means away from, as in “absent,” which means not here, or “absolve,” which means to take away blame. In this instance the word “abscond” means to run away. 

The prefix epi- means upon, on top of, and the word “epitaph” means writing upon a tombstone. This is closest in definition to “inscription,” which means writing or a dedication. To provide further help, “comatose” means in a coma-like state; an “individual” is one person.

The prefix mono- means one, and the word “monosyllable” means containing only one syllable. An example of a “monosyllable” sound is a grunt. To provide further help, “proclaim” means formally announce to a large group of people; “badger” means annoy; “dialogue” is conversation between two people. 

The prefix "over-" means too much of, so we know that “overwhelmed” must mean completely taken over or emotionally overcome by something. The word closest in meaning to “overcome” or “taken over” is “inundated.” "Inundated" literally means flooded with water, but can also mean flooded with a great number of something. None of the other answer choices are close in meaning to "overwhelmed": “aloof” means distant; “insipid” means dull; “garrulous” means talkative; and “barrage” means a relentless bombardment.

An “obstacle" is something that gets in the way or an impediment. This makes sense, as "obstacle" contains the prefix "ob," which can mean in the way of. "Impediment" is thus the correct answer. To provide further help, “recalcitrant” means wayward and disobedient; “serendipitous” means owed to chance or good fortune; “unfortunate” means not lucky; and “auspicious” means a favorable beginning that suggests at a good outcome.