Question

1. since fishing is critical to the economy of the area, they anxiously awaited the improvement of the weather. as used in this sentence, \critical\ most nearly means

a. verging on a state of crisis.
b. needing careful evaluation.
c. absolutely necessary.
d. helpful and worthwhile.

1. he worried about becoming part of the establishment but felt the best way he could serve the people in his area was to run for congress and be a voice for change. as used in this sentence, \establishment\ most nearly means

a. an organization united for a specific purpose.
b. the ruling class.
c. a political party.
d. the act of forming something.

1. the internet is a vital medium for the expression of ideas and differing viewpoints, but it has to be used responsibly. as used in this sentence, \expression\ most nearly means

a. a look or tone of voice that shows a reaction.
b. a word or phrase used in particular situations.
c. feelings revealed through a persons face.
d. communication of beliefs and opinions.

1. after their lackluster performance, the coach urged the team to get a good nights sleep so that they would show a higher energy level in tomorrows game. as used in this sentence, \level\ most nearly means

a. a position on a scale of intensity.
b. having a flat surface.
c. aligned with the top of something.
d. sensible and level - headed.

1. the artists use of grays, blacks, and olive greens to depict the deserted town created a sombre tone for the painting. as used in this sentence, \tone\ most nearly means

a. atmosphere.
b. quality of voice.
c. quality of different colors.
d. strength.

Explanation:

1. In the context of fishing being crucial to the area's economy, "critical" means absolutely necessary. Fishing is essential for the local economy.
2. When he worries about becoming part of the "establishment" and decides to run for Congress to be a voice of change, "establishment" refers to the ruling class. He sees it as the existing power - structure.
3. The Internet is a medium for the "expression" of ideas and viewpoints. Here, "expression" means communication of beliefs and opinions.
4. The coach wants the team to show a higher energy "level" in the game. "Level" in this context means a position on a scale of intensity.
5. The artist's color - choice creates a sombre "tone" for the painting. "Tone" here means atmosphere.

Answer:

1. C. absolutely necessary
2. B. the ruling class
3. D. communication of beliefs and opinions
4. A. position on a scale of intensity
5. A. atmosphere