TACHS Reading : Distinguishing between multiple definitions

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for TACHS Reading

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Words With Multiple Valid Definitions

Even though he was a great shooter, DeMarr totally choked in the finals, missing two key free throws.

Possible Answers:

Desolate

Bungled

Elevated

Gasped

Correct answer:

Bungled

Explanation:

The primary meaning of “choke” is gag or strangle someone, but since none of the answer choices are close in meaning to this definition, you can assume you are searching for a secondary meaning of the word. If you “choke,” then you lose your composure and fail to perform effectively in a critical situation, like, for instance, taking key free throws in the finals, so you could say, "He had a chance to win the game but he choked." Thus, "choke" used in this way is most similar in meaning to "bungle,"which means mess something up. As for the other answer choices, "elevate" means rise up or place at a higher position; and "desolate" means empty, barren, or devoid of life.

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