16Hit1600
Information and IdeasVery hardInference from an author's word choice

Information and Ideas practice question

The obituary calls the mayor 'forthright', 'tireless', and 'a man of strong convictions', and says that he 'never left a colleague in doubt of his opinion'. It does not use the word 'kind'. ____

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  1. A. The writer seems to be describing a difficult man in the politest terms available.Correct
  2. B. The mayor was universally loved.
  3. C. The obituary is hostile.
  4. D. The mayor held office briefly.

Answer: A. The writer seems to be describing a difficult man in the politest terms available.

Every compliment is a euphemism for bluntness; kindness goes unmentioned.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. The mayor was universally loved.
The phrasing suggests otherwise.
C. The obituary is hostile.
It is polite, not hostile.
D. The mayor held office briefly.
Not stated.

More Information and Ideas questions

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