The important decision will be made tomorrow. Which word is the comparative form of the adjective 'important'?

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.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'that I wouldn't live life to the fullest.' This clause functions as the object of the verb 'is,' making it a noun clause. Noun clauses act as nouns within a sentence, often functioning as subjects, objects, or complements. Choice A ('My biggest fear') is a noun phrase, not a clause. Choice C ('life') and Choice D ('the fullest') are singular nouns and not clauses.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The determiner in the sentence is 'few.' Determiners specify the quantity or identity of a noun. In this case, 'few' indicates the number of birds present. Choice A, 'happily,' is an adverb modifying a verb or an adjective, not a determiner. Choice B, 'branches,' is a noun referring to parts of a tree, not a determiner. Choice D, 'tree,' is a noun identifying the main subject of the sentence, not a determiner.

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 underlined phrase 'with a mischievous grin' functions as an adverbial phrase in the sentence. It modifies the verb 'approached' by providing information on how he approached her, describing his manner. Adverbial phrases typically answer questions like 'how,' 'when,' 'where,' 'why,' or 'to what extent,' which this phrase does by indicating the manner in which he approached. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. The phrase does not serve as a subject (A), direct object (B), or appositive phrase (D) in the sentence. Instead, it functions to provide additional information about the action of approaching, making it an adverbial phrase.

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: The past participle of a verb is used to form various tenses and passive voice constructions. In this case, 'explained' is the correct past participle form of the verb 'explain'. The sentence structure indicates a completed action in the past, which aligns with the use of the past participle. Choice A, 'explains,' is the present tense form of the verb, not the past participle. Choice B, 'explaining,' is the present participle form of the verb, not the past participle. Choice D, 'explanation,' is a noun derived from the verb 'explain,' not the past participle form of the verb itself.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, 'joyous.' 'Pensive' means engaged in deep or serious thought, often with a hint of sadness. The antonym 'joyous' represents a state of great happiness and delight, contrasting with the contemplative and somewhat melancholic nature of being pensive. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. 'Thoughtful' is not an antonym but rather a synonym, meaning showing consideration or careful thought. 'Curious' and 'introspective' are also not antonyms; 'curious' means eager to know or learn something, and 'introspective' means examining one's own thoughts and feelings.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The term 'captivated' in the sentence indicates that the audience was completely engrossed and engaged by the speaker's compelling story. This implies that they were absorbed and highly interested in what was being presented. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because 'captivated' suggests a positive and attentive reaction from the audience rather than boredom, confusion, or disagreement.