What does the passage on Bridge imply about playing the game?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The passage implies that playing bridge requires concentration, focus, and mental effort. It mentions that Bridge can be complicated for beginners but with time, effort, and a good teacher, even novices can become proficient. The description of the game's components, such as bidding and playing, highlights the need for the player's undivided attention. The passage doesn't suggest that Bridge is exclusively for older people (B), extremely easy to learn (C), or too hard for beginners to learn (D).

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'The Olympic Games are held every four years,' as stated in the passage. The extract explicitly mentions that the Summer Olympic Games are held every four years. Choice B is incorrect as there is no mention of the Olympic Games being often postponed in the passage. Choice C is incorrect because although the Olympic Games occur during leap years, they are not exclusively held only in leap years. Choice D is incorrect as there is no indication in the passage that the Olympic Games only involve certain countries.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The main reason athletes want to participate in the Summer Olympic Games is often driven by a sense of patriotic pride. Representing their country and showcasing their skills on an international platform instills a deep sense of national pride in athletes. While winning medals is a significant goal for many athletes, the primary motivation to participate in the Olympics is often rooted in representing their nation. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because although athletes may aspire to win medals, travel the world, or earn money through endorsements, the core driving factor for most athletes in the Summer Olympics is the patriotic pride of representing their country.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the tradition mentioned in the passage, white elephants were given as punishment gifts by rulers to those who displeased them. These white elephants were considered burdensome because they were sacred and could not be made to work like other elephants. The recipients had to bear the high maintenance costs and care for the white elephants in a lavish style, leading to financial burdens and sometimes impoverishment. This tradition originated the term 'white elephant' to denote unwanted gifts. Therefore, the correct answer is B. Choice A is incorrect because white elephants were not symbols of wealth and power in this context; they were burdensome gifts. Choice C is incorrect as there is no mention of white elephants being used in religious ceremonies in the passage. Choice D is incorrect as white elephants in the tradition were real elephants, not mythological creatures with no practical use.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Receiving a white elephant in ancient Siam was considered a burden because the animal, being sacred, couldn't be used for work like other elephants. The recipient had to bear the cost of feeding the elephant large amounts of fruit and maintaining it in a lavish manner. The ruler's displeasure if the gift was not accepted graciously added to the pressure. This financial strain often led recipients to financial ruin. Therefore, people tried to avoid receiving a white elephant to prevent these financial consequences. Choice B is incorrect because the white elephant was not considered a symbol of honor and wealth but rather a burden. Choice C is incorrect as the white elephant was not primarily used in ceremonial processes but was a gift that came with financial responsibilities. Choice D is incorrect as the passage does not mention that people greatly desired a white elephant as a gift, but rather the opposite.