Correct Answer: B

Rationale: "Ironic" and "serious" are antonyms as they have opposite meanings. 'Ironic' refers to something that is contrary to what is expected or intended, while 'serious' indicates something grave or without humor. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Choice A is incorrect because synonyms are words with similar meanings. Choice C is incorrect as homonyms are words that sound the same but have different meanings, which is not the case for 'ironic' and 'serious'. Choice D is also incorrect as there is a relationship between the two words, making B the correct answer.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The primary purpose of using strong vocabulary in writing is to communicate your ideas clearly and precisely to the reader. While using complex words may impress the reader, the ultimate goal is effective communication. Clear communication ensures that the message is easily understood, removing any potential confusion or ambiguity. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the main focus should be on clarity and precision in conveying thoughts, rather than solely aiming to impress, confuse, or save space.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'effected.' In this context, 'effected' means to produce a result or impression, which aligns with the emotional impact of the strangers' kindness. The other choices are incorrect: A) 'affected' might seem plausible, but 'effected' is a better fit as it implies a direct result. B) 'infected' is incorrect as it implies a negative or harmful impact, which is not the intended meaning. D) 'defected' means to abandon allegiance, which is not relevant in the given sentence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Colons are used to introduce a list or explanation that follows an independent clause. In this case, option A correctly uses a colon to introduce a list of snacks after an independent clause. Choice B lacks an independent clause before the colon, making it incorrect. Choice C is incorrect as it should have an independent clause before the colon. Choice D incorrectly uses a colon as a comma would be more appropriate to introduce the list of items.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this sentence, 'important' is the positive form of the adjective. When comparing two things, the comparative form is used, which is 'more important' in this case. 'More important' indicates a higher degree of importance when comparing two things. Therefore, 'more important' is the correct comparative form of the adjective 'important' in this context. Choice A ('important') is the positive form, not the comparative form. Choice B ('importantly') is an adverb, not a comparative form of the adjective. Choice D ('most important') is the superlative form, used to show the highest degree of importance among three or more things, not for comparing two things.