Confused Words Exercise (758)
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. I am not prepared to make predictions as dramatic as his.
dramatic: attracting attention, rousing emotions, or extreme. "It reminded me of that feeling you get when you’re standing in a spot where you know something really dramatic occurred."
drastic: serious or severe. "Drastic measures were necessary to limit expenditure and to provide new sources of revenue."
2. In loud sounds, such as a peal of thunder from a near flash, or the report of a gun, the effect may be considerable.
peal: a loud sound or series of sounds, especially the ringing of bells. "She burst into a peal of merry laughter. "
peel: the rind or skin of a fruit. "He leaned over and brushed away the scraps of orange peel."
3. The smile instantly faded, and a wary expression took its place as he began to doubt her intentions.
wary: cautious. "She tiptoed toward the desk, keeping a wary eye on the door."
weary: tired. "They were weary of the conflict, and wished to be done with it."
4. Lightning flashed around them, and thunder rumbled.
lightening: becoming more light or upbeat. "Jane relaxed as she noticed his mood lightening."
lightning: flashes of light produced during a storm. "A jagged bolt of lightning pierced the angry black clouds."
5. The stories are replete with episodes of the most tragic and stirring character.
replenished: refilled or resupplied, or built up again. "The rains replenished the numerous tanks and irrigation channels."
replete: full, or well provided. "The book is replete with full-color illustrations, featuring several in each chapter."
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