Why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The term 'white elephant' originated from the practice of the kings of Siam (now Thailand) giving rare and sacred white elephants as gifts. These white elephants were highly prestigious but also very expensive to maintain, causing financial burdens on the recipients. The kings of Siam used white elephants as a punishment for those who displeased them. The recipients were required to care for the white elephant in a grand style, resulting in financial liabilities that could make them impoverished. Over time, the term 'white elephant' evolved to describe any valuable item that is burdensome or unwanted. Therefore, choice C is correct. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately explain the origin and meaning of the term 'white elephant' in the context of unwanted gifts.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the passage, the word 'suit' is used in the context of card games, specifically in relation to playing cards of the same category. It refers to being convenient or right for a particular purpose in the game of Bridge. The other choices are incorrect because 'suit' in this passage does not refer to a set of clothing (option A), persistent requesting (option C), or one of the four categories in a deck of cards (option D). The passage clearly explains how the term 'suit' is used in the context of playing cards in the game of Bridge.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. In the culture of Siam, white elephants were highly regarded as sacred and receiving one as a gift from the king was considered an honor. It was a symbol of prestige and status to receive the king's gift of a white elephant. Option A is incorrect as white elephants were not used for meat supply. Option B is also incorrect as white elephants were not prized for their work but rather for their symbolic value. Option D is partially correct but does not capture the full significance of white elephants in Siam.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The author's primary purpose for writing this essay is to inform the readers about the stages of the water cycle. The essay explains how water moves through the cycle, including processes like precipitation, runoff, evaporation, and condensation. Choice A is correct because the focus is on educating readers about the water cycle, not just explaining how rain is formed (Choice B), persuading readers to preserve water (Choice C), or discussing water's importance in life (Choice D). The detailed explanation of the water cycle provided in the extract supports the correct answer.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Thailand is located in Asia, not South America. Thailand is a country in Southeast Asia known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. It shares borders with Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia, and Malaysia. The extract provided also mentions the country of Siam, which is now known as Thailand, indicating its location in Asia. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as Thailand is not located in Africa, Europe, or South America.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The roadway was dangerous to build because the men involved in the construction were at risk of falling to their deaths. The excerpt mentions that the construction of the roadway was the most dangerous and treacherous part of the entire task, indicating a high risk of falling due to the height and precarious nature of the construction site. Choice A is incorrect because the danger was due to the physical risks of falling and not due to a lack of materials. Choice B is incorrect as passing cars were not the primary danger during the construction of the roadway. Choice D is incorrect since there is no mention of workers being attacked by animals during the construction of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The paragraph implies that overeating and alcohol abuse can lead to serious physical and mental health problems. It highlights the strain on the heart, risk of diabetes, and shortened lifespan due to overeating. It also mentions the negative consequences of alcohol abuse, such as alcoholism, drunk driving leading to accidents, and spousal/child abuse. While emotional eating is mentioned, the main focus is on the health risks of overeating and alcohol abuse. Therefore, choice A is the correct answer as it captures the essence of the paragraph's message.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The information presented in the article is unbiased in its approach. While the article highlights the potential issues related to overeating and alcohol abuse, it does not explicitly advocate against eating and drinking, drinking alcohol, or eating rich foods. The primary focus is on the negative consequences of overeating and alcohol abuse, making choice D, 'Unbiased and informative,' the correct answer. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they are not supported by the content of the article; it merely discusses the risks associated with overeating and alcohol abuse without taking a stand against them.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The word 'embark' typically means to board a ship or begin a journey. In this context, it means to start or set out on a new undertaking or venture, often including the act of boarding a ship. In the provided passage about the Golden Gate Bridge, it is mentioned that builders, architects, and workers embarked on the challenge of building a bridge across the Golden Gate Strait, which refers to them starting this new undertaking. Therefore, the correct definition of 'embark' is D. Put or go on board a ship. The other choices are incorrect: A. Removing the covering from a tree is unrelated to the context of the passage. B. Speaking harshly to others and C. Entertaining the reader are also irrelevant to the meaning of 'embark' in this context.