In each of the following questions, out of the given alternatives,choose the one which best expresses the meaning of the given word.
Acumen
Answer: A
It is quickness of insight.
Acumen means keen judgement, from the Latin for a sharp point - the same root as acute. Misunderstanding is its opposite.
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Tour de force
Answer: C
It is a feat of skill.
Tour de force is French for a turn of strength, and means an achievement carried off with great skill. Show of force is a literal translation that misses the sense.
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Inconsequential
Answer: E
It is insignificant.
Inconsequential means of no importance. Worthwhile and important are its opposites; subsequent and preceding belong to the word's other sense, of not following logically.
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Presage
Answer: A
It is to foretell.
To presage is to be a sign of something to come, from the Latin for perceiving beforehand. Assume and consider are acts of the mind rather than of prediction.
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Repugnance
Answer: D
It is disinclination.
Repugnance is strong distaste or opposition, from the Latin for fighting against. Affection, admiration and esteem are all its opposites.
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Fictitious
Answer: C
It is false.
Fictitious means invented and not real. Truthful and genuine are its opposites. Note it is not the same as fictional, which describes literature without implying deceit.
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Rookie
Answer: C
It is a new recruit.
A rookie is a beginner, especially in sport or the forces. The word is probably a corruption of recruit. Expert and professional are its opposites.
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Penchant
Answer: D
It is like.
A penchant is a strong liking for something, from the French for leaning. Impartiality is its opposite; eagerness describes energy rather than preference.
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Remorse
Answer: C
It is repentance.
Remorse is deep regret for a wrong done, from the Latin for biting back - conscience gnawing. A good conscience is its opposite.
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Damp squib
Answer: C
It is an unsuccessful attempt.
A damp squib is something that fails to produce the effect intended. The squib was a firework, which will not go off if it has got wet.
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