Nokea
Why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant?
- A. It is a good gift to give at the party
- B. Gifts are never unwanted
- C. Siam's rulers punished with the gift
- D. It is rare to get an unwanted gift
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.
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What can be inferred about the author's reaction to different voices?
- A. Be an experienced public speaker
- B. Prefer shrill, grating, and brassy voice
- C. Have no particular reactions to different voices
- D. nan
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Based on the extract provided, the author discusses the effects of different voice qualities on others but does not express any preference or reaction towards specific voices. The author emphasizes the negative impact of harsh tones and provides insights into how voice qualities can influence perceptions. As a result, it can be inferred that the author has no particular reactions to different voices. Choices A and B are incorrect as there is no mention of the author's public speaking experience or preference for specific voice qualities in the passage.
The author's reason for writing this piece seems to be to
- A. Teach the reader
- B. Persuade the reader
- C. Entertain the reader
- D. Inform the reader
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The author likely wrote this piece to inform the reader because the content is focused on providing information about the Golden Gate Bridge's history, construction, and significance. The text presents facts and details without attempting to persuade or entertain. The main purpose appears to be sharing useful or educational information rather than teaching, persuading, or entertaining.
Throughout this passage the word suit means?
- A. A set of clothing to be worn together
- B. To be convenient or right for
- C. To request or appeal persistently
- D. One of the four categories in a deck of cards.
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.
In the passage, a trick is described as?
- A. A special look given to your partner across the table
- B. A book that gives strategies on how to win at Bridge
- C. A specific card the dealer gives to the person to her right
- D. A round in which each player plays a card, and the highest card wins
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: In the passage, a trick is described as a specific card played by each player, forming a collection of four cards. This is a fundamental concept in the game of Bridge, where players take turns playing cards to create a trick. The trick is won by the player with the highest card of the lead suit or the trump suit if applicable. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the definition of a trick as provided in the passage.
What is the meaning of the word impoverished in the first paragraph?
- A. Honored
- B. Nobility
- C. Rich
- D. financially weakened
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The word 'impoverished' typically refers to a state of extreme poverty or being financially ruined. In the context of the first paragraph, where it is used to describe the condition of a certain group of people, it indicates that they are lacking in financial resources or are in a state of deprivation.
Choice A 'Honored' is incorrect as it has a positive connotation opposite to the negative meaning of 'impoverished.' Choice B 'Nobility' is incorrect as it refers to a high social rank or class, which is unrelated to the financial state implied by 'impoverished.' Choice C 'Rich' is incorrect as it is the opposite of 'impoverished,' denoting wealth and abundance, not financial weakness.