Question

understanding contextual meanings
read the following sentences. if the word in bold is used correctly, write c on the line.
if the word is used incorrectly, write a new sentence using the word correctly.

1. the utilitarian company soon repaired the power lines.
2. the machine has a propensity to stop without warning.
3. the earth is interposed between venus and mars.
4. a naval bombardment drove the marauders away.
5. i gave the aggrieved customer her money back.
6. i comported myself into the upper bunk.
7. i was disconcerted when i discovered that id left my phone at home.
8. the fauna in the spine of the old book fell apart when i picked it up.
9. his patrician air made him look every bit a senator.
10. the new bosss phlegmatic approach to problem - solving improved office mo

Explanation:

1. "Utilitarian" means practical or useful, not a type of company. Correct usage: He has a utilitarian approach to furniture - it must be functional.
2. "Propensity" means a natural inclination or tendency, and it's used correctly here.
3. "Interposed" means to place or insert between one thing and another. Earth is not "interposed" between Venus and Mars in a natural - order sense. Correct usage: She interposed herself between the two arguing parties.
4. "Bombardment" and "marauders" are used correctly. A naval bombardment can drive away raiders.
5. "Aggrieved" means feeling resentful at having been unfairly treated, and it's used correctly.
6. "Comported" means to behave or conduct oneself. The usage here is incorrect. Correct usage: He comported himself with dignity at the ceremony.
7. "Disconcerted" means feeling confused and slightly worried. It's used correctly.
8. "Fauna" refers to animals. The spine of a book has no fauna. Correct usage: The fauna of the rain - forest is incredibly diverse.
9. "Patrician" means of noble birth or having the qualities associated with the aristocracy. It's used correctly.
10. "Phlegmatic" means having an unemotional and calm nature. It's used correctly.

Answer:

1. He has a utilitarian approach to furniture - it must be functional.
2. C
3. She interposed herself between the two arguing parties.
4. C
5. C
6. He comported himself with dignity at the ceremony.
7. C
8. The fauna of the rain - forest is incredibly diverse.
9. C
10. C