16Hit1600
Craft and StructureMediumWord meaning from context

Craft and Structure practice question

Unlike the ____ growth of the coral, which adds only a few millimetres a year, the algae covering it can spread across the reef in a matter of weeks.

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

  1. A. sluggishCorrect
  2. B. vigorous
  3. C. sporadic
  4. D. uneven

Answer: A. sluggish

The clause after the blank defines it — 'a few millimetres a year' — and 'unlike' contrasts it with algae spreading in weeks. Very slow growth is 'sluggish'.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. vigorous
'Vigorous' means strong and fast. Millimetres a year is the opposite.
C. sporadic
'Sporadic' means occurring irregularly. The coral grows steadily, just slowly.
D. uneven
'Uneven' describes inconsistency, not the slowness the sentence spells out.

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