Which sentence uses the word 'literally' correctly?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because it uses 'literally' to emphasize the magnitude of work, not to exaggerate a simple action. In this sentence, 'literally' is used to convey the idea that the person climbed a significant amount of paperwork, highlighting the challenging and overwhelming nature of the task. Choices A, C, and D use 'literally' inappropriately by exaggerating or using the word in a non-literal sense. In choice A, 'died laughing' is a common expression and not meant to be taken literally. Choice C describes a figurative expression, not a literal one. Choice D involves the supernatural, which is not a literal occurrence.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Idyllic' because it accurately captures the peaceful and picturesque nature of the setting. The image of a lone cabin nestled among towering pines with smoke curling from its chimney into the crisp mountain air evokes a sense of tranquility and beauty. 'Bland' (choice A) is incorrect as it suggests something dull or uninteresting, which does not align with the vivid imagery described. 'Urban' (choice B) is also incorrect as it refers to a city or town setting, which is the opposite of the isolated cabin in the mountains. 'Sterile' (choice D) is incorrect as it conveys a lack of warmth and character, which is not reflective of the cozy and inviting atmosphere portrayed in the description.

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 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: Establishing a style guide with agreed-upon terminology and formatting is the most effective technique to maintain consistency in writing style. A style guide ensures that writers adhere to specific guidelines regarding tone, terminology, and formatting, thereby creating a cohesive and uniform writing style across different pieces of writing. This consistency helps enhance readability and reinforces the brand or voice associated with the written content. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not promote consistency in writing style. Writing freely without structure can lead to inconsistency, using different vocabulary and sentence structures can create disjointed writing, and relying solely on thesaurus suggestions may result in awkward or inappropriate word choices that do not contribute to maintaining a consistent writing style.

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: C

Rationale: The comparative form of the adjective 'careful' is 'more careful' when comparing two things. In this context, it is comparing the level of care in examining the patient, indicating a higher degree of care than just 'careful.' Choice A, 'careful,' is the positive form of the adjective and not comparative. Choice B, 'carelessly,' is an adverb that conveys the opposite meaning. Choice D, 'most careful,' is the superlative form of the adjective, indicating the highest degree of care, not the comparative form.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In the sentence 'I was disappointed by the outcome,' 'disappointed' is used to describe the subject 'I,' indicating its quality. This function classifies 'disappointed' as an adjective. Adjectives modify nouns or pronouns by giving more information about their attributes. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Adjective.' The other choices are incorrect because: - 'Verb' refers to an action word or a state of being, which 'disappointed' is not performing in this sentence. - 'Noun' represents a person, place, thing, or idea, and 'disappointed' does not serve this function in the given sentence. - 'Adverb' modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, but 'disappointed' is not modifying any of these in the sentence provided.