PEER-GENERATED LEXICO GRAMMAR PRACTICE TEST 1

The politician's speech was filled with __________ rhetoric, offering a scathing and insightful critique of his opponent's policies.

• puerile

• trenchant

• fatuous

• equivocal

Answer explanation

Trenchant (a): vigorous, sharp, and insightful in expression or style; clear and incisive

Despite the overwhelming pressure from the media, the leader remained __________, refusing to alter his stance on the controversial issue.

• obdurate

• licentious

• ostensible

• fetter

Answer explanation

Obdurate (a) /ˈɒb.dʒə.rət/ stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or course of action; inflexible and unyielding.

After hours of negotiation, the committee could only achieve a __________ of progress, barely moving closer to a resolution.

• modicum

• elegy

• reprobation

• excoriation

Answer explanation

modicum: a small quantity of a particular thing, especially something desirable or valuable.

His __________ behavior, full of reckless indulgence, led to his downfall, as he ignored the consequences of his actions.

• wanton

• sagacious

• fatuous

• unctuous

Answer explanation

Wanton (a) deliberately cruel, reckless, or unrestrained, especially in terms of behavior or actions.

The professor found the student's analysis not only incorrect but also __________, revealing a complete lack of logical thought.

• trenchant

• perspicacious

• puerile

• fatuous

Answer explanation

Fatuous(a): silly and pointless; showing a lack of intelligence or thought.

In an attempt to __________ the growing influence of dissenters, the government imposed severe restrictions on free speech.

• galvanize

• espouse

• fetter

• obfuscate

Answer explanation

Fetter (v) : to restrain or restrict (someone) in an undesirable way, often metaphorically.

Many intellectuals __________ progressive values, advocating for radical reforms to address the deep-rooted inequalities in society.

• decry

• espouse

• rescind

• intransigent

Answer explanation

Espouse /esˈpaʊz/ (v): to adopt or support a cause, belief, or way of life.

The mournful __________ delivered at the funeral resonated deeply with the audience, capturing the sense of loss and longing.

• elegy

• panegyric

• excoriation

• modicum

Answer explanation

Elegy /ˈel.ə.dʒi/: a mournful poem or song, typically lamenting the dead or reflecting on sorrowful themes.

His __________ conduct at the formal event shocked the guests, as he indulged in excessive drinking and inappropriate jokes.

• licentious

• trenchant

• sagacious

• puerile

Answer explanation

Licentious: morally unrestrained, especially in sexual conduct; disregarding accepted rules or conventions

Despite repeated attempts at negotiation, the leader of the opposition remained completely __________, unwilling to compromise or change his stance on the proposed legislation.

• fatuous

• intransigent

• perspicacious

• sagacious

Answer explanation

intransigent: (of people) unwilling to change their opinions or behavior in a way that would be helpful to others