The actor was speaking so loudly that even those walking past the theater could hear him _________ his monologue. (to say something in a loud, passionate way)

The editors of the magazine described the supermodel as a ______________ of beauty. (a model of excellence or perfection)

Our professor said that he would not allow questions or comments that are _________ to the subject matter under discussion. (not belonging to, outside of)

The politician blamed the fraud on his staff members and refused to accept any ___________ for the financial deception. (the condition of being involved in an act of wrongdoing)

Although Jim agreed with the critic’s review of the restaurant, he did not like the ____________ the reviewer used when ridiculing the chef. (the quality of being severe in the way that you speak and behave)

More cities are beginning to ____________ smoking in public places because of second-hand smoke hazards. (to abolish; to do away with)

I heard through the ___________ that they fired him – is that true? (an unofficial, informal way of getting information by hearing about it from someone who heard it from someone else)

The thieves and two ______________s made away with over $25,000 in cash. (a person who helps someone else to commit a crime or do something morally wrong)

To prevent an open rebellion, the soldiers had no choice other than to ________ their enemies to trees. (to tie someone to a place by putting chains around their ankles)

If my best friend does not ________ the accusation she made about me, then she and I will no longer be friends. (to retract a public statement)

It wasn’t an X, but the small stone served as a ____________ for the location of the buried treasure. (a well-known object in a particular place that helps a person know where they are)

While the ___________ suspect was arrested today, he still has to be tried in a court of law. (questionable; not confirmed)

Some people try to _____________ the crimes of Hitler, but their excuses don’t change his monstrous deeds. (something that covers or hides wrong or illegal action)