SSAT Middle Level Verbal : Distinguishing Between Multiple Definitions
Study concepts, example questions & explanations for SSAT Middle Level Verbal
All SSAT Middle Level Verbal Resources
Example Questions
Example Question #1 :Determining Meaning Or Part Of Speech From Context
Complete this analogy.
Petals are to rose as teeth are to__________.
jacket
zipper
dentistry
movie
toothbrush
zipper
A rose typically has or consists of many petals, so we need to pick out an answer choice that describes a noun which typically has or consists of many teeth. “Dentistry” and “toothbrush” might each look like potentially correct answers because “teeth” can meanthe bony, enamel-covered units in contained in the mouth and used for chewing. However, neither “dentistry” nor “toothbrush” are things that consist of many teeth, so neither can be the correct answer; however, “teeth” can also meanindividual parts that project on a comb, gear, or saw. Considering it as falling under this definition, “zipper” makes sense as an answer, because the individual bits of a zipper that interlock are called "teeth." So, just as a rose consists of petals, a zipper consists of teeth, so “zipper” is the correct answer.
Example Question #1 :Distinguishing Between Multiple Definitions
Complete this analogy.
Arrest is to begin as virtue is to__________.
disbelief
vice
merit
prosperity
sacrifice
vice
The word "arrest" most commonly meanscatch a criminal and charge him or her with a crime; however, in this instance, you have to know the secondary meaning of "arrest," which isstop something. “Arrest” can meanstopwhilst “begin” meansstart, so you need to pick out an answer choice that is an opposite of “virtue.” “Virtue” isamorally good character traitwhereas “vice” isamorally bad character trait. To help, “disbelief” ismental rejection of something asuntrue;“prosperity” isthe state of being successful; “sacrifice” isthe act of giving up something you want to keep; and “merit” isexcellenceorworth.
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All SSAT Middle Level Verbal Resources
