Question

read the passage.
janelle could not believe her eyes when the cast list for the spring play was finally posted. not only was she cast in the role she wanted, but her brother was cast in the leading role!
which best describes an example of the author’s use of diction in the passage?
○ the idiom “could not believe her eyes” emphasizes janelle’s amazement.
○ the phrase “not only” emphasizes that janelle is upset about the list.
○ the repetition of the word “cast” suggests the play is important to janelle.
○ the phrase “leading role” suggests that janelle is proud of her brother.

Explanation:

• The idiom "could not believe her eyes" is a specific word choice (diction) that directly conveys Janelle's shock and amazement at the positive casting news.
• The second option is incorrect: "not only" highlights a double positive, not upset.
• The third option is incorrect: "cast" is used to describe casting roles, not as intentional repetition for emphasis.
• The fourth option is incorrect: the passage does not state or imply Janelle's pride, only her amazement at the casting results.

Answer:

A. The idiom "could not believe her eyes" emphasizes Janelle's amazement.