Question

directions: use the word bank to fill in the blanks. acute dissimulation vexed profound sagacity pitch deathwatches suppositions unperceived crevices refrained pulsation waned scantlings wary suavity deputed audacity vehemently trifles gesticulations derision hypocritical stealthily 1. the ____________ of the mountain climber to ascend the slope without ropes or protection seemed foolish to many spectators. 2. the symphony conductor faced the orchestra and made bold __________ with his baton. 3. santa claus went __________ up the chimney after depositing our presents under the tree. 4. the guard on duty kept a close eye on the entrance to the bank and was __________ of every person that came inside. 5. our conversation at lunch was filled with __________, small talk, and trivial matters. 6. when the cat is on a prowl for a mouse, all of his senses, especially his senses of smell and hearing, are extremely __________. 7. the officer had been __________ to guard the train station and report any suspicious behavior. 8. when a person says one thing but does another, he or she can be perceived as __________. 9. damage to the house after the tornado left only wooden studs and ____________ from which to rebuild.

Explanation:

1. "Audacity" means a willingness to take bold risks, which fits the context of the mountain - climber's risky act.
2. A conductor makes "gesticulations" (hand - movements) with a baton.
3. Santa Claus goes "stealthily" (quietly and secretly) up the chimney.
4. The guard is "wary" (cautious) of people entering the bank.
5. Conversation can be filled with "trifles" (unimportant things).
6. A cat's senses are "acute" (sharp) when hunting.
7. An officer can be "deputed" (appointed) to guard a place.
8. Saying one thing and doing another is "hypocritical" behavior.
9. After a tornado, there may be only wooden studs and "scantlings" (small pieces of wood) left for rebuilding.

Answer:

1. audacity
2. gesticulations
3. stealthily
4. wary
5. trifles
6. acute
7. deputed
8. hypocritical
9. scantlings