All Exams  >   TOEIC  >   Reading Section for TOEIC  >   All Questions

All questions of Text Completion for TOEIC Exam

Choose the correct word from the choices given for blank (2), to best complete the text
The artist's ___(1)____ paintings and __(2)_____ sculptures showcase his __(3)_____ talent and creativity.
  • a)
    abstract
  • b)
    organic
  • c)
    immense
  • d)
    life-like
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

The correct answer is option 'B' (organic).

Explanation:

1) The context of the sentence:
The sentence talks about the artworks of an artist, specifically their paintings and sculptures. The word that should fill the blank (1) should describe the type or style of the paintings, while the word that should fill the blank (2) should describe the type or style of the sculptures. The word that fills blank (3) should describe the overall quality of the artist's talent and creativity.

2) Analyzing the options:
a) abstract - This word describes a style of artwork that does not attempt to represent an accurate depiction of visual reality. While abstract paintings could be a possibility, it does not specify the style of the sculptures.
b) organic - This word can describe both the style of paintings and sculptures. Organic art refers to art that is inspired by or derived from natural forms, shapes, and patterns. Therefore, this option is a suitable choice for filling blank (2).
c) immense - This word does not provide any information about the style of the artworks. It describes something that is extremely large or extensive, which may not be relevant in this context.
d) life-like - This word describes a style of art that closely resembles real life or nature. While it could be a possibility for filling the blank (1) to describe the style of the paintings, it does not specify the style of the sculptures.

3) Conclusion:
Considering the context and the options provided, option 'B' (organic) is the most appropriate word to fill the blank (2). This choice accurately describes the style of both the paintings and sculptures as being inspired by or derived from natural forms, shapes, and patterns.

Unlike the expatriates of yester years, who gave nothing back to their native lands, those today are making _____________ investments.
  • a)
    more or less the same
  • b)
    much smaller
  • c)
    truly commendable
  • d)
    mandatory
  • e)
    obligatory
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Harper Lee answered
Understanding the Context
The sentence highlights a contrast between past expatriates and those of today. The key focus is on the nature of the investments made by contemporary expatriates towards their native lands.
The Correct Answer: "Truly Commendable" (C)
This option stands out for several reasons:
- Positive Connotation: The phrase "truly commendable" implies that the investments are not only significant but also deserving of praise. This reflects a shift in attitude among modern expatriates compared to their predecessors.
- Contribution to Native Lands: The term suggests that current expatriates are actively working to improve their home countries, fostering development, and creating opportunities. This is in stark contrast to the notion that earlier expatriates contributed nothing.
- Emphasis on Quality: The word "truly" emphasizes sincerity and genuine effort. It indicates that the investments are not superficial or obligatory, but rather meaningful and impactful.
Why Other Options Are Less Suitable
- a) More or less the same: This implies no significant change, which contradicts the context of evolution in expatriate contributions.
- b) Much smaller: This suggests a decrease in investment, which does not align with the positive shift being highlighted.
- d) Mandatory: This implies that contributions are required, stripping away the voluntary and commendable nature of the actions.
- e) Obligatory: Similar to "mandatory," this option lacks the positive, proactive implication that "truly commendable" conveys.
In conclusion, "truly commendable" encapsulates the essence of modern expatriate contributions, showcasing their positive impact and commitment to their native lands.

Much of the consumer protection movement is predicated on the notion that routine exposure to seemingly _______________ products can actually have long-term deleterious consequences.
  • a)
    outdated
  • b)
    banal
  • c)
    litigious
  • d)
    virulent
  • e)
    benign
Correct answer is option 'E'. Can you explain this answer?

Xen Lara answered
"seemingly" is the clue here
Something which might look not so troublesome = "benign", might have long term consequences.

The terms "benign" and "malignant" are often associated with tumor and their stages of growth i.e initial and in worrisome condition,respectively.

In an effort to _______ the orbits of planets in class, the Professor created a motorized replica of the solar system.
  • a)
    confound
  • b)
    expound
  • c)
    exhort
  • d)
    corroborate
  • e)
    extenuate
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Meanings for the words given in this question are provided in the table. Before going through the detailed explanation, check whether you are able to arrive at the answer after knowing meanings for the words.

This is an easy question if the meanings of the answer options are clear.
The professor went to great lengths to create a motorized replica of the solar system. Why did he do that? So that he could explain the solar system to his students more clearly. In order to explain or talk about the solar system, he created the replica.
Choice B is the correct answer.

That traditional forms of media—despite considerable variance in the quality of writing—tend to report on a range of issues (i) _________________ by the demands of the readership should (ii) ________________ those who believe that the demise of each media outlet signals a lamentable reduction in the scope of news reported.

Q. Appropriate word for blank (ii)
  • a)
    discourage
  • b)
    reassure
  • c)
     rile up
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Benjamin Smith answered
Such as newspapers, magazines, television, and radio, have been largely replaced or supplemented by digital media platforms in recent years. Online news websites, blogs, social media, streaming services, and podcasts have become increasingly popular and accessible for consumers. This shift in media consumption has had significant impacts on the industry, including changes in advertising strategies, audience engagement, and the speed at which news and information is disseminated. However, traditional media still holds some importance, especially for older demographics who may prefer more familiar and trusted sources. Overall, the rise of digital media has transformed the media landscape and continues to shape the way we consume and interact with information.

For a writer with a reputation for both prolixity and inscrutability, Thompson, in this slim collection of short stories, may finally be intent on making his ideas more ________________ to a readership looking for quick edification.
  • a)
    trying
  • b)
    prescient
  • c)
    palatable
  • d)
    inaccessible
  • e)
    transcendent
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Isaac Kim answered
Explanation:

In this sentence, the writer is describing Thompson, a writer known for being wordy and difficult to understand. However, in this collection of short stories, Thompson seems to be trying to make his ideas more accessible to readers who are looking for quick understanding or enlightenment. The word that best fits the blank is "palatable" because it means "acceptable or agreeable to the mind or feelings" and suggests that Thompson is attempting to make his ideas more easily digestible or enjoyable for readers.

Key Points:
- Thompson is known for being both prolix (wordy) and inscrutable (difficult to understand).
- In this collection of short stories, Thompson may be trying to make his ideas more accessible.
- The word that best fits the blank is "palatable" because it suggests that Thompson is attempting to make his ideas more easily understood and enjoyable for readers.
- "Palatable" means "acceptable or agreeable to the mind or feelings."

The (i)___________ of the old man's garb and home belied a (ii)___________ nature, and many people lamented his tendency to be outright juvenile in somber circumstances.
For each blank select one entry from the corresponding choices. Fill all blanks in the way that best completes the text.
  • a)
    A, F
  • b)
    B, F
  • c)
    A, D
  • d)
    B, D
  • e)
    C, D
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

The first blank should be filled with a word that describes the appearance or condition of the old man's garb and home. From the given options, "austerity," "obsolescence," and "poverty" all relate to a lack or simplicity of material possessions. Among these, "austerity" is the most appropriate choice as it suggests a plain or simple lifestyle. So, for the first blank, the answer is A. (i) austerity.
The second blank should be filled with a word that contrasts with the adjective chosen for the first blank. Since the first blank implies a lack or simplicity, the second blank should describe a characteristic that contradicts this. "Jovial" means cheerful or merry, which fits well as a contrast to the austerity suggested by the first blank. Thus, for the second blank, the answer is D. (ii) jovial.
Therefore, the completed sentence reads:
"The austerity of the old man's garb and home belied a jovial nature, and many people lamented his tendency to be outright juvenile in somber circumstances."

Like other great champions, Sampras has also experienced ____ in his career: He has had his moments of _____ and he has also suffered ____.
  • a)
    A, D, H
  • b)
    A, E, G
  • c)
    B, F, I
  • d)
    C, E, H
  • e)
    B, E, G
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Meanings for the words given in this question are provided in the table. Before going through the detailed explanation, check whether you are able to arrive at the answer after knowing meanings for the words.

In case of sentences with multiple blanks, we can start by filling in the easiest blank(s) first, and then work our way around the sentence. Here, the easiest blanks are the second and the third, which are separated by the keyword “also”.
Rearranging the second part of the sentence, we see that Sampras has suffered ____ and he has ALSO had ____ moments. The blank that immediately follows suffered has to be a negative. So second blank has to be a positive word. Blank 2 in this sentence has to be “euphoria”. Sampras has had moments of euphoria in his career. He has ALSO suffered difficulties, so blank 3 has to be “tribulations”.
Attenuation cannot be an appropriate choice for Blank 3 because it would mean that his career had been on a downward path. Constraints are restrictions and do not describe difficulties.
The first blank describes how Sampras has experienced both successes and difficulties. These are fluctuations that Sampras has seen in his career. The word that perfectly captures this meaning is “vacillations”. Capriciousness and Fickleness convey a negative meaning, and cast his career in a bad light. Vacillations is a more neutral word which just indicates changing fortunes.
Choices A, E, and G are the correct answers.

When Richard saw the ________ conditions of the rooms and the ________ of the staff, he decided not to stay in the hotel.
  • a)
    A, D
  • b)
    B, E
  • c)
    B, F
  • d)
    C, D
  • e)
    C, E
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

The clue to the meaning of the sentence lies in understanding why Richard decided not to stay in the hotel. The decision was made because he did not like the hotel. This is because the rooms were bad and the staff were not helpful, or courteous or efficient.
From among the answer options, only B and F fit the bill. The rooms were in really bad (deplorable) conditions, and the staff were “inept” (root for ineptitude).
Dilapidated is a close answer, but it is not correct because the blank describes the condition of the room, and not the room itself. The room may be dilapidated, but the condition cannot be said to be dilapidated.
Choice B & F are the correct answers.

Addiction can be viewed as a continued involvement with a substance or activity despite the ______ associated with it. The substance or activity may have originally provided pleasure and enjoyment. However, over a period of time _______ the substance or activity is needed to feel normal.
  • a)
    B, F
  • b)
    C, D
  • c)
    A, D
  • d)
    B, D
  • e)
    C, E
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

In sentences that have multiple blanks, always start out by filling up the easier blank first.
How do we know which blank is easier?
A blank that has more clues pointing to it is easier. In this case, the first blank is the easier one because of the keyword “despite” immediately before it. The placement of the word “despite” suggests that the blank has to contain a negative word. People continue being involved with a substance despite the negatives associated with it. This narrows the answer options to A or B.
The third sentence provides the required information to decide between these two choices. Nowhere in the 3 sentences is the cost discussed. The primary issue is dependence and not the cost. So, we can rule out choice B. The Answer option A is appropriate for blank 1.
After you have filled the easier blank, read the sentence again. Sometimes, additional clues may pop up, or you may get more clarity while reading a sentence again with your chosen answer option for the first blank. In other times, it may lead you to revise your initial answer option too!
The second blank in this sentence explains what addiction is, in terms of usage or involvement of a person. Initially, the substance or activity may have made the person happy, HOWEVER (note the keyword here – however indicates contrast) once a person is addicted, the substance or activity is needed even just to feel normal. So, it necessitates continued involvement. Answer option D fits the bill perfectly.
Choice A & D are the correct answers.

Getting a private pilot's license is expensive affair in Europe, but this problem can be _______ if one obtains a license from certain south-east Asian countries where the cost of the license is much lesser.
  • a)
    prevaricated
  • b)
    excluded
  • c)
    exacerbated
  • d)
    circumvented
  • e)
    averted
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Understanding the context can sometimes clearly tell us the meaning of the word which has to be placed there.
The cost of getting a private pilot's license is very high in Europe and lower in some south-east Asian countries. If a prospective pilot has to get his or her license in Europe, he or she will face the problem of high cost. But this cost can be avoided (using our own word here) if the license is obtained in a south-east Asian country. The only word which has the same meaning as “avoided” is circumvented. Answer option D.
Averted is a close answer option, but it is not correct because when a problem is averted, it goes away, or does not happen. In this case, the costs will still remain high in Europe even if pilots get their licenses in Asia. So the problem is only circumvented.
Choice D is the correct answer.

While it may appear ________ the related concept, 'theme', the term 'motif' differs somewhat in usage. Any number of narrative elements with symbolic import can be ________ motifs ________ they are images, structural or stylistic devices, or other elements such as sound, physical movement, or visual components in dramatic narratives.
  • a)
    A, D, G
  • b)
    B, E, H
  • c)
    C, D, H
  • d)
    A, E, H
  • e)
    B, F, H
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Let us start by figuring out the easiest blank. The first blank offers a clue through the keyword “While”. We know that the word while, in most cases, indicates a contrast. A simplified version of the first sentence would be: While “motif” may appear ___ to “theme”, it differs. So, the word in the blank has to be the exact opposite of the word “differs”.
Answer option B (identical to) is correct for blank 1. “Similar to” would be incorrect because it already implies that there might be differences between the two. Two things can be similar and yet differ somewhat.
Answer option A is incorrect because it places the emphasis on the interchangeability of the terms “theme” and “motif” rather than on their perceived equivalence. The true opposite of “interchangeable with” would be the “uniqueness” of the term motif. For example, if “interchangeable with” was indeed the correct answer, the sentence should have read: “while it may appear interchangeable with the term “theme”, the term “motif” is unique and has a meaning of its own.
The second and third blanks form a sentence which appears to tell us how inclusive and broad the definition of a motif is. It tells us that any one of the listed things can be a motif. The second and third blanks collaborate to give us a sentence which accomplishes that.
“Any number of narrative elements with symbolic import can be classified as motifs whether or not they are images, structural or stylistic devices, or other elements such as sound, physical movement, or visual components in dramatic narratives".
In the second blank, “determined by” is incorrect because it implies that the motif is acting to ascertain something, which is impossible. “Clubbed together as” implies that a set of diverse items have been put together in an unwieldy manner. Option E, “classified as”, gives the correct meaning to the sentence.
The answer to the third blank is not “because” or “although” – there is no causation (because is used when there is a causation) or contrast implied.
Choice B, E, and H are the correct answers.

Nostalgia can distort the picture of reality by ________ events from one's past and by ________ more recent events.
  • a)
    A, D
  • b)
    C, E
  • c)
    B, F
  • d)
    C, D
  • e)
    A, E
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Meanings for the words given in this question are provided in the table. Before going through the detailed explanation, check whether you are able to arrive at the answer after knowing meanings for the words.

Nostalgia is the sentimental feeling that conditions in the past were better than conditions now. The sentence says that this is a distorted picture of reality. Nostalgic people feel (wrongly) that conditions in the past were better than conditions in the present. This happens because nostalgia makes the past look better than it was, and the present worse than it is.
So, events from the past are made better than they were, and more recent events are cast in a more negative light, somehow minimizing them and reducing their worth.
The answer to the first blank cannot be “eliciting”, because nostalgia does not bring out hidden or forgotten memories. Also, the memories (if they are elicited) could also be of negative events.
“Edifying” is incorrect because we are looking for a word that makes past events seem better than they were. Edifying makes past events more enlightening and easier to understand. So, exalting is the best answer for the first blank.
The answer to the second blank cannot be “demoralizing” or “ridiculing”, because events themselves cannot be demoralized or ridiculed.
Choices C and E are the correct answers.

With numerous exciting public works projects in the offing, residents are understandably (i) _______________ ; yet because such prodigious undertakings are inevitably plagued with numerous setbacks, much of the fervor is likely to be (ii) _________________ a heavy dose of reality.

Q. Appropriate word for blank (ii)
  • a)
    tempered with
  • b)
    intensified by
  • c)
    precluded by
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Surya Iyer answered
Explanation:

The sentence states that residents are excited about the public works projects, but there will inevitably be setbacks, which will bring a dose of reality. We need to choose a word that means "moderated" or "toned down" to fill the blank.

- Option A: "tempered with" means to be moderated or toned down, which fits the meaning of the sentence. This option is correct.
- Option B: "intensified by" means to be made stronger or more intense, which is the opposite of what the sentence suggests. This option is incorrect.
- Option C: "precluded by" means to be prevented or made impossible by something, which doesn't fit the context of the sentence. This option is incorrect.

Therefore, the correct answer is option A: "tempered with."

The flood of innovation that has engendered many of last decade’s technological breakthroughs has also claimed some victims in its wake: companies once at the (i) ___________________ of such innovation have now become (ii) ___________________.

Q. Appropriate word for blank (i)
  • a)
     brink
  • b)
     forefront
  • c)
     periphery
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Henry Brown answered
’s most transformative technologies has also created a growing concern about the ethical implications of these advancements. From artificial intelligence to genetic engineering, the rapid pace of innovation has outpaced society’s ability to fully comprehend and address the ethical dilemmas that arise.

One of the key ethical concerns is the potential for technological unemployment. As automation and AI continue to advance, there is a fear that jobs will be replaced by machines, leading to widespread unemployment and social unrest. This raises questions about the responsibility of technology companies and governments to ensure that the benefits of innovation are shared equitably and that workers are not left behind.

Another ethical concern is the privacy and security risks posed by the collection and use of personal data. Companies like Facebook and Google have faced scrutiny for their handling of user data, raising questions about the extent to which individuals have control over their own information. Additionally, the rise of surveillance technologies and facial recognition systems has raised concerns about the erosion of individual privacy and the potential for abuse by governments and corporations.

The ethical implications of genetic engineering and biotechnology are also a growing concern. Advances in gene editing technologies like CRISPR have the potential to cure diseases and enhance human traits, but they also raise ethical questions about the boundaries of what is considered acceptable and the potential for unintended consequences. The prospect of designer babies and the ability to manipulate the genetic code of future generations raises concerns about inequality and the potential for a genetic underclass.

Finally, the increasing integration of technology into our daily lives raises concerns about addiction and its impact on mental health. The constant use of smartphones and social media has been linked to increased rates of anxiety, depression, and loneliness. There is a need for ethical guidelines and responsible design practices that prioritize the well-being of individuals over profit and engagement metrics.

In order to address these ethical concerns, it is crucial for society to engage in open and informed discussions about the impact of technology on our lives. This requires collaboration between technology companies, policymakers, and ethicists to develop frameworks and regulations that ensure the responsible development and use of technology. Only by doing so can we fully harness the power of innovation while safeguarding the values and well-being of individuals and society as a whole.

For an actor who prepares so (i) _______________ for each role, the characters he chooses to portray are  (ii) _______________; nonetheless even the most nebbish persona he depicts on screen always appears on the verge of a(n) (iii) _______________, as though the actor’s suppressed agitation is ready to burst forth.

Q. Appropriate word for blank (i)
  • a)
     passively
  • b)
    carefully
  • c)
    feverishly
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Zoe Green answered
For an actor who prepares so meticulously for each role, the characters he chooses to portray are diverse and captivating; nonetheless even the most nebbish persona he depicts on screen always appears on the verge of a transformation, as though the actor is constantly pushing the boundaries of his capabilities.

Temperature-controlled sidewalk passageways - particularly prevalent in places with (i) __________ weather that needs to be shut out — can increase the overall physical fitness of a town’s population by making a commute on foot more (ii) __________ than any alternative.
  • a)
    A, D
  • b)
    B, F
  • c)
    C, D
  • d)
    A, F
  • e)
    B, D
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

The known information that will help us fill the blanks is that the weather “needs to be shut out.” Given that information, it must be that the weather is somehow unpleasant or unfavorable.
Thus, we can immediately eliminate choice (C), temperate (mild, moderate), as the opposite of what makes sense for blank (i). After all, why would “temperate weather” need to be shut out? This choice goes in the opposite direction of what is logical in context. We have to be careful not to choose this trap answer simply because “temperate” sounds like “temperature-controlled.”
“Congenial” (pleasant, agreeable) is similarly illogical and can be eliminated as the opposite of what makes sense in the context of “weather that needs to be shut out.”
Choice (A), severe, is the only answer that fits the context of “weather that needs to be shut out.”
Moving on to blank (ii), we can see from the agreement signal “by” that blank (ii) should be in keeping with the information that precedes it. So, how would it be that temperature-controlled passageways “can increase the overall physical fitness of a town’s population?” What would bring about that result?
Well, what we know so far is that temperature-controlled sidewalk passageways shut out “severe weather” — a positive effect. Logically, then, people must choose to use the passageways, and thus the population’s physical fitness increases because people are walking instead of commuting in other ways.
Thus, choice (F), enticing (appealing, attractive), fits the context well. A commute in which “severe weather” is no longer an issue would be “more enticing than any alternative,” and so people would end up walking more —  and becoming fitter —  than they would if they commuted in other ways (and thus still had to deal with “severe weather”).
Choice (D), agile, is illogical. Perhaps the townspeople themselves are “agile” when moving through the passageways, but it does not make sense to call “a commute on foot” itself “more agile than any alternative.”
Choice (E), monotonous (boring and repetitive), does not make sense because we need something that directly connects to “can increase the overall physical fitness of a town’s population.” Making a commute on foot “more monotonous than any alternative” would not necessarily result in increased fitness — a commute by car or train could also be “monotonous,” and the fitness of commuters would not increase. “Monotonous” is not relevant to what is discussed in the sentence.

The mayor opted to uphold the curfew, despite relentless pressure from residents to __________ it.
  • a)
    maintain
  • b)
    endorse
  • c)
    attempt
  • d)
    promote
  • e)
    rescind
Correct answer is option 'E'. Can you explain this answer?

First, we read through the sentence. Next, we locate the signal word “despite.” We then determine that “despite” conveys a contrast. Now, we evaluate our known information: “The mayor opted to uphold (maintain) the curfew.” Finally, we must select the answer choice that best maintains a contrast with the known information.
(A) Incorrect. There is no contrast between upholding the curfew and being pressured to “maintain” the curfew. Those two things are in perfect agreement. Notice that “uphold” and “maintain” actually mean the same thing. Thus, this answer is the opposite of what we need.
(B) Incorrect. There is no contrast between upholding the curfew and being pressured to “endorse” (approve, support) the curfew. Those two things agree. Thus, this answer is the opposite of what we need.
(C) Incorrect. There is no contrast between upholding the curfew and being pressured to “attempt” the curfew. If anything, those two things agree.
Moreover, “attempt” does not really make sense in this context, since upholding the curfew indicates that it was already in place, and thus the “attempt” was already made. So, this choice does not create a logical time sequence.
(D) Incorrect. There is no contrast between upholding the curfew and being pressured to “promote” the curfew. Those two things agree. Thus, this answer is the opposite of what we need.
(E) Correct. There is a clear contrast between upholding the curfew and being pressured to “rescind” (take away) the curfew.
The mayor opted to uphold the curfew, despite relentless pressure from residents to rescind it.
This answer creates the needed contrast between the information that was given in the sentence and the statement that was incomplete.

In the United States, some presidential campaigns begin nearly two years before an election, while in the United Kingdom, such __________ campaigns are unheard of.
  • a)
    sensational
  • b)
    partisan
  • c)
    nonexistent
  • d)
    protracted
  • e)
    monotonous
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

(A) Incorrect. Although “sensational” may seem related to the topic of presidential campaigns, this trap answer is actually off-topic. The fact is, the only information provided in the first part of the sentence deals with the length of campaigns. Thus, we have no evidence that the campaigns were “sensational” — or completely dull, for that matter.
(B) Incorrect. Although “partisan” (biased) may seem related to the topic of presidential campaigns, this trap answer is actually off-topic. The fact is, the sentence does not give us any information about the nature of the campaigns other than their length. Thus, we have no evidence that the campaigns were particularly “partisan” — although we might argue that campaigns in any country, by their very nature, are “partisan.” Regardless, “partisan” has nothing to do with the fact that “some presidential campaigns begin nearly two years before an election,” so this choice is unrelated to the given context.
(C) Incorrect. This answer choice is illogical in context. It does not make sense to say that presidential campaigns that “begin nearly two years before an election” are “nonexistent.” Clearly, the campaigns exist.
The key to avoiding this illogical answer is recognizing that “such __________ campaigns” refers to presidential campaigns that “begin nearly two years before an election.”
(D) Correct. This is the only answer choice that is logical in context. Given that the sentence discusses presidential campaigns that “begin nearly two years before an election,” it makes sense to refer to those campaigns as “protracted” (drawn out, prolonged).
In the United States, some presidential campaigns begin nearly two years before an election, while in the United Kingdom, such protracted campaigns are unheard of.
(E) Incorrect. Although “monotonous” (boring and repetitive) may seem appropriate to describe presidential campaigns that “begin nearly two years before an election,” the sentence does not actually give us any information about the nature of the campaigns other than their length. Thus, the campaigns could just as easily be “monotonous” or incredibly exciting. In other words, we can’t assume that because the campaigns are lengthy, they are “monotonous.”
Answer: D

Because Istanbul lies in two continents – Asia and Europe, its culture is a fascinating _______ of both Asian and European cultures.
  • a)
    aberration
  • b)
    galvanization
  • c)
    amalgam
  • d)
    travesty
  • e)
    juxtaposition
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

This is a relatively straightforward single blank sentence. If we use our own word in the blank (without looking at the answer options), we can say that since Istanbul lies in both Asia and Europe, it has a good combination of both cultures. The only word which matches the meaning is answer option C.
Choice C is the correct answer.

Greek tragedy, from which Racine borrowed ____________, tended to assume that humanity was under the control of gods who were indifferent to its ____________, a theme that was therefore recurrent in Racine’s work.
  • a)
    A & E
  • b)
    A & B
  • c)
    A & C
  • d)
    A & D
  • e)
    A & F
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

In more complex sentences, the structure and construction becomes important. You might find clauses and modifiers which add more and more information and make the sentence longer. In such cases, it helps to simplify the sentence to understand its structure. For example, this sentence can be rephrased to remove a lot of the detail present in it.
Racine borrowed from Greek tragedy. The first blank seems to refer to the amount that Racine borrowed from Greek tragedy. Did he borrow a lot, or did he borrow very rarely? The last part of the sentence gives us a clue – a certain theme from Greek tragedy was (therefore) recurrent in Racine’s work. If the theme was recurrent (appearing frequently), it indicates that he borrowed heavily from Greek tragedy. So he borrowed “in plenitude” (meaning abundantly) Answer option A.
The clue to the second blank in the sentence is the theme present in Racine's work - which is the indifference of the gods. Choose an answer option which is tying in with “indifferent”.
What is the meaning of indifference?
Not interested in. Not caring about. Cannot be bothered about.
What will go with the Gods do not care about?
The sufferings and aspirations of humanity. Answer option D.
Choice A & D are the correct answers.

That traditional forms of media—despite considerable variance in the quality of writing—tend to report on a range of issues (i) _________________ by the demands of the readership should (ii) ________________ those who believe that the demise of each media outlet signals a lamentable reduction in the scope of news reported.

Q. Appropriate word for blank (i)
  • a)
     unbounded
  • b)
    circumscribed
  • c)
    sensationalized
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Hazel Carter answered
Such as newspapers, magazines, and TV networks have been the primary sources of news and entertainment for many years. They have played a crucial role in shaping public opinion, disseminating information, and providing a platform for advertisers to reach their target audience.

Traditional media has a number of characteristics that have made it popular and influential. Firstly, it has a wide reach, with newspapers and TV networks being available to large segments of the population. This has enabled them to reach a diverse audience and have a significant impact on public discourse.

Secondly, traditional media has had a high level of credibility and trust among the public. Newspapers, for example, have long been seen as reliable sources of information, and TV networks have been trusted for delivering news in a balanced and unbiased manner. This trust has been built over time through rigorous journalistic standards and editorial processes.

Furthermore, traditional media has played a crucial role in setting the news agenda. Newspapers and TV networks have the power to decide what stories are important and deserve coverage. This ability to curate and prioritize news has shaped public opinion and influenced the political and social discourse.

However, with the rise of digital media and the internet, traditional forms of media have faced significant challenges. The internet has provided individuals with alternative sources of news and entertainment, making it easier for people to access information from a variety of perspectives. Social media platforms and online news outlets have also enabled individuals to become content creators and share their own stories, challenging the monopoly of traditional media.

Moreover, traditional media has faced criticism for its biases and lack of diversity in representation. Critics argue that traditional forms of media often reflect the perspectives and interests of a select few, failing to adequately represent the voices and experiences of marginalized communities.

In response to these challenges, traditional media outlets have had to adapt and incorporate digital platforms into their operations. Many newspapers and TV networks now have online editions and social media presence to reach a wider audience and engage with readers and viewers in a more interactive manner.

In conclusion, traditional forms of media have been influential and have played a significant role in shaping public opinion. However, with the advent of digital media and the internet, traditional media has faced challenges and had to adapt to new ways of engaging with audiences. The future of traditional media will likely involve a combination of traditional and digital platforms, as the industry continues to evolve and respond to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements.

With numerous exciting public works projects in the offing, residents are understandably (i) _______________ ; yet because such prodigious undertakings are inevitably plagued with numerous setbacks, much of the fervor is likely to be (ii) _________________ a heavy dose of reality.

Q. Appropriate word for blank (i)
  • a)
    vexed
  • b)
    concerned
  • c)
    agog
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Answer:

Explanation:
The sentence states that there are numerous exciting public works projects in progress, which has generated enthusiasm among the residents. However, the sentence also mentions that such projects are often faced with setbacks, which means that the initial excitement is likely to be tempered by the challenges and obstacles that arise during the implementation of these projects.

Blank (i)
The word that best fits the first blank is "agog".

- The word "agog" means to be eager, excited, or enthusiastic about something.
- In the context of the sentence, the residents are described as being "understandably" something, which indicates that they are likely to be excited or eager about the public works projects.
- Therefore, the word "agog" accurately captures this sense of anticipation and enthusiasm.

Blank (ii)
The word that best fits the second blank is "tempered".

- The phrase "much of the fervor is likely to be" suggests that the initial excitement and enthusiasm of the residents will be diminished or reduced in some way.
- The word "tempered" means to be moderated or reduced in intensity. It reflects the idea that the setbacks and challenges associated with public works projects will dampen or lessen the initial excitement.
- Therefore, the phrase "a heavy dose of reality" indicates that the residents' enthusiasm will be counterbalanced by the difficulties and obstacles that arise during the course of the projects.

Summary:
In summary, the appropriate word for the first blank is "agog," which means eager or excited. The appropriate word for the second blank is "tempered," which means moderated or reduced in intensity. This choice of words accurately conveys the idea that while the residents are initially excited about the public works projects, their enthusiasm will likely be diminished by the challenges and setbacks that are bound to occur.

Considering its high level of juvenile delinquency and the large number of children dropping out of schools, it is surprising to note that the small mid-western town also has one of the highest number of _______ youngsters in the country.
  • a)
    belligerent
  • b)
    peremptory
  • c)
    prolific
  • d)
    prodigal
  • e)
    precocious
Correct answer is option 'E'. Can you explain this answer?

The key word in the sentence is the word “surprisingly”. The word “surprisingly” indicates that the two phenomenon are not expected to appear together (so one would be surprised if they did).
There is a high number of school dropouts and juvenile delinquents. This means that youngsters in the town are not very accomplished. But surprisingly, the town also has the highest number of bright and talented (using our own word/phrase) youngsters.
The word that fits best is precocious.
Choice E is the correct answer.

While alcohol causes obvious and immediate changes in moods and behaviours, nicotine has ________ effects, but is equally deleterious to health over prolonged periods of time.
  • a)
    more pronounced
  • b)
    less harmful
  • c)
    equal
  • d)
    less conspicuous
  • e)
    similar
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

The key words in this sentence are “While” and “But”. Both these words represent contrast.
While alcohol causes obvious and immediate changes, nicotine ...(try to use your own word or phrase here).. does NOT cause immediate or obvious changes. So we might think that nicotine is less harmful. But the word immediately after that “BUT” tells us that it is wrong to think so: Nicotine is equally harmful to health.
So the word or phrase in the blank has to mean “less obvious or immediate”.
Choice D is the best option.

Chapter doubts & questions for Text Completion - Reading Section for TOEIC 2025 is part of TOEIC exam preparation. The chapters have been prepared according to the TOEIC exam syllabus. The Chapter doubts & questions, notes, tests & MCQs are made for TOEIC 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, notes, meanings, examples, exercises, MCQs and online tests here.

Chapter doubts & questions of Text Completion - Reading Section for TOEIC in English & Hindi are available as part of TOEIC exam. Download more important topics, notes, lectures and mock test series for TOEIC Exam by signing up for free.

Top Courses TOEIC