Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Gradual.' In the context provided, 'insidious' describes a disease that develops slowly and harmfully over time, without being easily noticed. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. 'Sudden' (choice A) means something happening quickly or unexpectedly, 'Suffer' (choice B) means to experience pain or hardship, and 'Graduate' (choice D) means to successfully complete a process or course of study, none of which capture the intended meaning of 'insidious' in this context.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Plethora.' In the context provided, 'cornucopia' is used metaphorically to signify an abundance or a large variety of stimulating questions and conversation. 'Plethora' is a synonym for 'cornucopia' and means an excessive amount or abundance. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. 'Ostracism' means exclusion or rejection, 'Laborious' means requiring a lot of effort, and 'Pensive' means engaged in deep thought.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'A: Giant catnip patch in the sky.' This phrase is a euphemism for death, as it softens the reality of Thomas the Cat's passing. Choice B, 'The cutest kitten around,' is a compliment and not a euphemism. Choice C, 'He'll be missed by everyone,' is a straightforward statement without a euphemistic element. Choice D, 'Today we gather to remember,' is a typical opening statement for a memorial gathering and is not a euphemism.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Sense of balance.' In the sentence provided, 'equilibrium' refers to a state of physical balance or stability. The client lost his balance when he woke up, indicating a loss of stability or equilibrium. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because 'equilibrium' specifically refers to balance, not the ability to speak, sense of taste, or ability to swallow.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because the environment refers to the surroundings or conditions in which a person, animal, or plant lives or operates, encompassing both internal and external factors. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect as they do not accurately define the concept of 'environment.' Choice A is too broad and does not specifically address the components of an environment. Choice B is vague and does not capture the entirety of what an environment entails. Choice D is limited in scope, focusing solely on a home environment rather than the broader concept of environment.