16Hit1600
Craft and StructureMediumWords in context

Craft and Structure practice question

The critic's ____ review left no doubt about her contempt for the film; she called it a waste of two hours.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word?

  1. A. glowing
  2. B. impartial
  3. C. scathingCorrect
  4. D. hesitant

Answer: C. scathing

'Contempt' and 'a waste of two hours' signal harsh criticism, so 'scathing' fits. 'Glowing' is the opposite; 'impartial' contradicts her obvious bias.

Why the other answers are wrong

A. glowing
'Glowing' means highly positive, the opposite of the contempt and 'waste of two hours' the sentence describes.
B. impartial
'Impartial' means neutral, but the critic's contempt is explicitly stated — the review is clearly one-sided against the film.
D. hesitant
'Hesitant' suggests uncertainty, yet the sentence says the review 'left no doubt' — she was blunt, not tentative.

More Craft and Structure questions

Not affiliated with the College Board. SAT is a trademark of the College Board.