Confused Words Exercise (500)
In each sentence, choose the correct word from the pair of similar terms. (If both words possibly can be correct, choose the more plausible one.)
Answers and Explanations
1. The hardy explorer shouldered his pack and trudged on, determined that despite his fatigue, he would reach his destination by nightfall.
hardy: tough, durable. "The hardy tree survived another severe winter."
hearty: strong, energetic, or satisfying. "Their appetites stimulated by their exertions, they sat down to a hearty, well-deserved meal."
2. He’s experiencing disillusion about the program.
disillusion: disenchantment. "Disillusion often follows exaggerated expectations."
dissolution: making something end or stop. "The dissolution of their marriage quickly followed."
3. This documentary about a quiet monk on a pilgrimage is also a picturesque travelogue.
picaresque: concerning an episodic tale featuring the exploits of a lovable rascal. "The antihero’s picaresque antics become wearying after a while."
picturesque: visually appealing. "The picturesque landscape was marred by the march of housing subdivisions over the low, rolling hills."
4. Since then, I’ve developed a new perspective on the issue.
perspective: point of view. "What’s your perspective about her behavior?"
prospective: possible, potential. "You don’t want to alienate prospective customers."
5. After spending hours trudging in the mud through the rainstorm, he looked like a wretch.
retch (verb): vomit, or attempt to vomit. "The disgusting sight made me retch."
wretch (noun): an unfortunate person. "You are a pitiful wretch."
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