Scientists warned that the chemical compound could quietly damage ecosystems over time. Although the effects might not appear immediately, the long-term consequences could be severe. Researchers therefore described the substance as ______.
redundant
benign
temperate
pernicious
15
The tour guide spoke continuously during the entire bus ride. Some passengers enjoyed the stories, while others wished for silence. Many described the guide as extremely ______.
resigned
prudent
loquacious
taciturn
15
The luxury hotel featured simple furniture and almost no decoration. Designers believed elegance came from simplicity rather than extravagance. The interior style could best be described as ______.
austere
ostentatious
exuberant
ornate
15
The company’s official statement was intentionally complicated and confusing. Critics argued that the language was designed to hide the real issue. The spokesperson appeared to ______ the truth.
reveal
illuminate
obfuscate
clarify
15
The engineer carefully checked every calculation before submitting the report. She believed even a small mistake could compromise the project. Her careful work showed she was extremely ______.
careless
casual
meticulous
negligent
15
The writer produced dozens of novels over the course of his career. His productivity impressed both critics and publishers. He was known as a ______ author.
prolific
negligible
obsolete
mundane
15
The professor warned students that copying another writer’s work without credit would result in serious consequences. Universities treat this academic dishonesty very seriously. Such behavior is known as ______.
digression
disparity
plagiarism
rhetoric
15
Although the politician promised transparency, the investigation revealed hidden financial records. These documents contradicted the official explanation. The discovery threatened to ______ the politician’s credibility.
discredit
evoke
promote
inspire
15
The philosopher argued that life had no inherent meaning or moral purpose. His ideas rejected traditional values entirely. His beliefs reflected ______.
idealism
nihilism
optimism
pragmatism
15
The scientist suggested that the experiment might produce unexpected results. However, she admitted that the explanation was only a possibility. Her theory remained ______.
definitive
rigid
absolute
tentative
15
The billionaire donated millions of dollars to build hospitals and schools. Even critics admitted that the generosity was remarkable. The donation was widely considered ______.
selfish
mercenary
munificent
trivial
15
The comedian exaggerated the politician’s speeches to make them ridiculous. Audiences laughed because the imitation was clearly humorous. The performance was a ______ of the original speech.
hypothesis
allegation
digression
parody
15
The environmental activist strongly supported stricter pollution regulations. She spoke at conferences and organized protests to promote the cause. She was a leading ______ of environmental reform.
critic
skeptic
adversary
proponent
15
After months of negotiations, the two rival companies finally agreed to work together. The joint project required trust and shared planning. The effort depended on close ______.
retaliation
collaboration
rivalry
separation
15
The old computer system could no longer run modern software programs. Technology had advanced far beyond its capabilities. The machine had become completely ______.
modern
revolutionary
innovative
obsolete
15
The debate between the two candidates quickly became hostile. Each speaker criticized the other’s arguments aggressively. Their tone became openly ______.