16Hit1600
Craft and StructureMediumWord meaning from context

Craft and Structure practice question

The archaeologists worked with great ____, brushing away the soil a few grains at a time so that nothing fragile beneath it would be harmed.

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

  1. A. delicacyCorrect
  2. B. haste
  3. C. indifference
  4. D. force

Answer: A. delicacy

'A few grains at a time' and 'so that nothing fragile would be harmed' describe extremely careful, gentle handling — 'delicacy'.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. haste
'Haste' means speed. Working a few grains at a time is the opposite of hurrying.
C. indifference
'Indifference' means not caring. The archaeologists are taking pains to protect what's fragile.
D. force
'Force' would damage fragile finds — exactly what they're avoiding.

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