Among the following transitional words or phrases, which one indicates contrast?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The transitional word 'Regardless' indicates a contrast or opposition between ideas. It is often used to show that a particular fact or situation is true or relevant despite other circumstances, highlighting a contradiction or opposing viewpoint. 'Furthermore' (choice B) is used to add more information or provide additional support rather than indicate contrast. 'Subsequently' (choice C) shows a sequence of events or a cause-and-effect relationship, not a contrast. 'It may appear' (choice D) introduces a condition or possibility, but it does not signal a contrast between ideas. Therefore, 'Regardless' is the correct choice to indicate contrast among the options provided.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The word 'piqued' means to stimulate or arouse interest or curiosity. In this context, the sentence is referring to Helene's interest in Shakespeare being stirred or awakened, which makes 'piqued' the correct word. Both 'peaked' and 'peeked' have different meanings (reaching the highest point and looking quickly, respectively) that do not fit the sentence. 'Peked' is not a valid word and does not make sense in the context of the sentence. Therefore, option 'A' is the correct choice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the sentence, 'fought' is the only word that functions as a verb. It shows action, as it is the past tense of the verb 'fight.' The other words in the sentence do not serve as verbs in this context. 'Control' and 'trade' can also be verbs, but in this specific sentence, they are not used as verbs but as nouns. 'Those' is a pronoun and does not function as a verb.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The sentence above is a complex sentence because it contains an independent clause 'You are a helpful assistant' and a dependent clause 'What type of sentence is the sentence above?'. A complex sentence is formed by joining an independent clause with one or more dependent clauses. In this case, the dependent clause 'What type of sentence is the sentence above?' cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the sentence does not contain multiple independent clauses (compound) or a combination of independent and dependent clauses (compound-complex).

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the sentence, 'earlier' describes when the Hapsburg rule of the Austro-Hungarian Empire effectively ended. Adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs in a sentence. In this case, 'earlier' modifies the verb 'ended,' indicating the time of the action. Choice A 'call' is a verb. Choice C 'could' is a modal verb expressing possibility or ability. Choice D 'phone' is a noun, not an adverb. Therefore, 'earlier' is the only word among the options functioning as an adverb in the sentence.