Reading — Vocabulary in context
⏱ ~3-min readAceMark Guide
What this topic is really about
The word 'predominantly' means mostly or for the most part in a given context.. The passage uses "predominantly" to describe where bioluminescence occurs; in context it means "mostly" or "for the most part." The other options describe frequency or balance that contradict the intended sense.
In context "discern" describes the ability to tell sound reasoning from weak reasoning, i.e. to distinguish or perceive clearly. The other options do not match this sense.
See the mechanism
The correct answer is 'Mostly' because 'predominantly' is used to describe the primary or main location of bioluminescence. A diagram for this topic isn't available yet — the worked example below walks the same reasoning step by step.
An exam-style question, fully explained
In the context of the passage, the word "predominantly" most nearly means:
- Identify what the question tests: In the context of the passage, the word "predominantly" most nearly means:.
- The passage uses "predominantly" to describe where bioluminescence occurs; in context it means "mostly" or "for the most part." The other options describe frequency or balance that contradict the intended sense.
- Why it matters: The correct answer is 'Mostly' because 'predominantly' is used to describe the primary or main location of bioluminescence. The other options, 'Occasionally', 'Equally', and 'Rarely', do not accurately convey the intended sense of the word in this context. The passage uses 'predominantly' to indicate that bioluminescence is mainly found in a particular area or condition.
Traps the examiner sets
- Some people may confuse 'predominantly' with 'occasionally' or 'rarely', which describe different frequencies or levels of occurrence. This confusion can lead to incorrect interpretations of the text.
- The other options do not match this sense.
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