Correct Answer: D

Rationale: To take umbrage at something means to feel offended or resentful by it. It implies feeling upset or insulted by someone's words or actions. The correct answer is D, 'be offended by it,' as it best captures the meaning of the phrase 'take umbrage.' Choice A, 'reprimand it,' is incorrect as it suggests scolding or rebuking something, which is the opposite of feeling offended by it. Choice B, 'stand beneath it,' is unrelated and does not convey the meaning of being offended or resentful. Choice C, 'speak well of it,' is also incorrect as it means to praise or approve of something, which is contrary to feeling offended.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'A test of brain activity.' EEG stands for Electroencephalogram, a test used to evaluate the electrical activity in the brain. It helps diagnose conditions like epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders. Choice B, 'A medical service,' is too broad and does not specifically refer to EEG. Choice C, 'A heartbeat monitor,' is incorrect as EEG does not monitor the heart. Choice D, 'A specialist in dentistry,' is unrelated to the abbreviation EEG.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acrid is often used to describe a sharp, unpleasant smell or taste, which is synonymous with bitterness. The word 'bitter' closely relates to the strong and sharp sensation associated with acrid qualities. Choice B, 'Smoky,' does not capture the sharpness or unpleasantness associated with acrid, as it refers more to the presence of smoke. Choice C, 'Nimble,' and choice D, 'Severe,' are unrelated to the meaning of acrid and do not serve as synonyms in this context.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A compendium is a collection of concise but comprehensive information on a particular subject. Therefore, another word for compendium is "collection." The term "aptitude" refers to a natural ability to do something, not synonymous with compendium. "Conclusion" is a decision or judgment reached after considering the facts, not related to a compendium. "Humor" refers to the quality of being amusing or comic, not a synonym for compendium.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The word 'amalgamate' in the sentence indicates that if the companies come together, combine, or unite as one entity, which aligns with the meaning of 'merge.' Amalgamation often refers to the merging or combining of two or more entities into one. 'Disband' (Choice A) means to break up or dissolve, which is opposite to what happens when companies amalgamate. 'Move' (Choice B) and 'Regroup' (Choice D) are not directly related to the process of companies amalgamating or merging.