Question

the latin root -plac- means “calm or peace” and “to please or to satisfy.” when prefixes and suffixes are added to the root, a variety of different words are formed. for example, the word complacent has the prefix com- (an intensifier), the root -plac-, and the suffix -ent (which forms an adjective). complacent means “self - satisfied to the point of no longer putting forth effort.”
a. directions: the list below shows some words with the latin root -plac- and gives their definitions. read the list and the sentences that follow. then, select the correct -plac- word to complete each sentence. write the word on the line.

• complacency: (noun) a sense of quiet satisfaction or contentment, often accompanied by a lack of awareness of potential problems or weaknesses
• placid: (adjective) peaceful; calm; undisturbed
• placebo: (noun) a pill or procedure that has no medical effect, given to a person who is told that it is medicine
• implacable: (adjective) unable to be pleased or satisfied; unable to be changed

1. the study used a control group and gave them a ______________ to test the new drug.
2. boris appeared ______________ after losing the contest, but i knew he was upset.
3. opponents of the new law are ______________. they refuse to stop fighting even though it seems clear the law will pass.
4. because of the ______________ of the voters, few seats in the state senate changed hands.

b. directions: select the correct word in parentheses to complete each sentence. use a dictionary, if necessary.

1. kayaking on the (implacable, placid) lake made us all feel relaxed.
2. lately, several employees have shown a (complacency, placebo) that may end up affecting their job performance.
3. any time justin feels he has been wronged, he immediately becomes hostile and (implacable, placid).
4. some of the patients who had received a (complacency, placebo) said they felt better.

Explanation:

1. In medical studies, a placebo is given to a control group. So for the first sentence about the study, the answer is placebo.
2. "Placid" means peaceful and calm, which describes how Boris appeared after losing the contest.
3. Opponents who refuse to stop fighting are "implacable" as they can't be pleased or satisfied.
4. "Complacency" among voters can lead to few seat - changes as they are satisfied and not actively seeking change.

For part B:

1. A lake that makes people feel relaxed is "placid".
2. Employees showing a sense of satisfaction that may affect job performance are showing "complacency".
3. Justin becoming hostile when wronged is "implacable".
4. Patients who feel better after receiving something with no medical effect received a "placebo".

Answer:

A.

1. placebo
2. placid
3. implacable
4. complacency

B.

1. placid
2. complacency
3. implacable
4. placebo