16Hit1600
Craft and StructureVery hardAdjective fixed by a 'rather than' contrast

Craft and Structure practice question

The memoir is unusually ____: rather than flattering herself, the author records her own failures with the same care she gives her successes.

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

  1. A. candidCorrect
  2. B. evasive
  3. C. sentimental
  4. D. exhaustive

Answer: A. candid

The author refuses to flatter herself and records her failures plainly. Frank honesty about oneself is 'candid'.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. evasive
'Evasive' means avoiding the truth — the opposite of recording one's failures.
C. sentimental
'Sentimental' means governed by tender feeling; the text is about honesty, not emotion.
D. exhaustive
'Exhaustive' means complete in every detail. 'Same care' might tempt you here, but the contrast 'rather than flattering herself' is about honesty, not thoroughness.

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