16Hit1600
Craft and StructureHardWord meaning from context

Craft and Structure practice question

The senator's reply was carefully ____, acknowledging the critics' concerns without conceding any specific point.

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

  1. A. measuredCorrect
  2. B. impulsive
  3. C. candid
  4. D. belligerent

Answer: A. measured

The reply acknowledges concerns yet gives nothing away — a controlled, deliberate response. 'Measured' means restrained and considered, and 'carefully' reinforces it.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. impulsive
'Impulsive' means acting without thought. 'Carefully' and the balanced description of the reply rule that out.
C. candid
'Candid' means frank and open. A reply that concedes no specific point is guarded, not frank.
D. belligerent
'Belligerent' means aggressive. Acknowledging the critics' concerns is the opposite of hostility.

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