Question

1. how can we ever forgive him for (defecting, purging) from our great cause at the very time we needed him most?
2. fortunately, the soil is so (resolute, retentive) of moisture that the weeks of dry weather did not damage our crops.
3. by teaching her son how to garden and fish, hilary hoped to (flaunt, instill) in him a love of nature.
4. i did not think that such an innocent conversation could have such serious (repercussions, scapegoats) on the outcome of an election.
5. it is possible to be honest and (forthright, retentive) in stating your views and opinions without being cruel or tactless.
6. shakespeare tries to convey brutuss (defects, premonitions) of defeat at philippi by having caesars ghost appear to him the night before the battle.
7. we should now be just as (genial, resolute) in fighting for peace as the americans of two hundred years ago were in fighting for independence.
8. it would be good taste on his part not to (flaunt, ostracize) all the honors and awards that he has won.
9. the purpose of our prison system is not just to punish offenders but to (flaunt, rehabilitate) them.
10. many people view cats as (finesse, aloof) and averse to cuddling.

Explanation:

Question 16

"Defecting" means abandoning a cause or group, while "purging" means removing or cleansing. In the context of leaving a great cause, "defecting" is the appropriate choice.

"Resolute" means determined, while "retentive" means able to retain or hold. The soil's ability to hold moisture is described, so "retentive" is correct.

"Flaunt" means to show off, while "instill" means to gradually introduce or implant. Hilary wants to introduce a love of nature in her son, so "instill" is the right word.

Answer:

defecting

Question 17