Question

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.
placable: (adjective) capable of being satisfied; easily calmed
complacent: (adjective) showing smugness or self - satisfaction, especially when unaware of dangers or weaknesses
placidly: (adverb) in a calm and peaceful manner
placate: (verb) to stop (someone) from being upset or angry; to soothe by giving something

1. the lawyer tried to ____________ the injured party with a cash offer, but she was not interested in money.
2. after making the dean’s list her first semester, jill became ____________ about studying, and her grades dropped as a result.
3. when i accidentally bumped into a man at the market, i was relieved to find that he was a ____________ person and not easily angered.
4. janelle sat on a bench in the park, ____________ reading pride and prejudice.

b. directions: use each word in an original sentence. your sentence should give enough context to show that you understand the word’s meaning and part of speech.

1. placebo ____________
2. complacency ____________
3. placid ____________
4. placate ____________
5. complacent ____________
6. implacable ____________

Explanation:

1. The lawyer is trying to soothe the injured party, so "placate" is the appropriate word.
2. Jill's self - satisfaction after making the Dean's List led to her not studying hard, so "complacent" fits.
3. The man is easily calmed, so "placable" is correct.
4. Janelle is reading in a calm and peaceful manner, so "placidly" is the right choice. For part B, sentences are created to show understanding of the words' meanings and parts of speech.

Answer:

A.

1. placate
2. complacent
3. placable
4. placidly

B.

1. The doctor gave the patient a placebo to ease his anxiety, and it seemed to work. (noun)
2. His complacency about his test scores caused him to fail the final exam. (noun)
3. The placid lake was a perfect spot for fishing. (adjective)
4. The mother tried to placate her crying baby with a lullaby. (verb)
5. She was so complacent about her appearance that she rarely made an effort to dress up. (adjective)
6. The implacable enemy refused to negotiate a peace treaty. (adjective)