Which word is most closely synonymous with the word patronage as it appears in the following statement? . . . that I am sure he will need no charitable aid or condescending patronage

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context provided, the word 'patronage' implies supporting or helping someone in a condescending manner. 'Auspices' is the correct answer as it refers to support or sponsorship, especially from an influential or powerful source, without the negative connotations associated with patronage. 'Aberration' (choice B) means a departure from what is normal or expected and is not a synonym for patronage. 'Acerbic' (choice C) means sharp or bitter in tone, which is not related to patronage. 'Adulation' (choice D) means excessive admiration or praise, which is not synonymous with patronage.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the third paragraph, the term 'enterprise' is used in the context of a group of travelers embarking on a journey together. In this context, 'enterprise' refers to a company or a group of people rather than courage, game, or cause. The word 'enterprise' is commonly used to denote a business organization or company, aligning with the idea of a group traveling together for a common purpose. 'Courage' and 'cause' do not fit the context of the travelers' journey, and 'game' is unrelated to the activities described in the passage.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The speaker's address of 'My Good Friends' implies a sense of warmth and familiarity, indicating that the speaker wants to establish a connection with the audience before delivering a serious speech. This type of salutation is often used by entertainers to engage the audience and create a friendly atmosphere conducive to effective communication. Choice A is incorrect because there is no indication of an employer-employee relationship. Choice C is incorrect as there is no indication of irony in the salutation. Choice D is incorrect as the salutation aims to create a connection rather than grab attention as a politician might.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The main point of dispute between the conservative and liberal politicians is about whether certain classes of people rely on social welfare programs to meet their basic needs. The conservative politician believes that no citizens truly need government assistance and that it only makes things easier, while the liberal politician argues that various groups, such as immigrants, single mothers, and the elderly, require a safety net for basic necessities. Choice A is incorrect as it refers to the impact on national debt, which is not the primary point of dispute. Choice C is incorrect as it discusses the consequences of failing to provide social welfare programs, not the main point of disagreement. Choice D is irrelevant as it talks about the backgrounds of the country's leaders, which is not the focus of the dispute between the politicians.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this passage, the word 'zymosis' is described as a malady that the narrator has been suffering from since boyhood. This aligns with the definition of zymosis as an infectious disease, making option B the correct choice. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the passage clearly indicates that zymosis is a medical condition, not related to feelings of discontent, poverty, or bad luck.