Reading 3
Practice with Vocabulary in Context—2
Synonym Method: Practice the synonym method.
1. Jack was a mediocre student. He was also just an average baseball player.
What does “mediocre” mean? ________________________________________
2. It is hard to believe that my millionaire cousin was once indigent, so poor that he walked the streets without
knowing where his next meal would come from.
What does “indigent” mean? ________________________________________
3. Most companies have a regulation allowing new mothers to take three months off from work. Some firms
also have a rule allowing fathers the same time off.
What does “regulation” mean? ________________________________________
4. Luke is one of the best patrons of Ruby’s Diner. He’s a steady customer, not only because he likes the food
there, but also because Ruby is his aunt.
What does “patron” mean? ________________________________________
5. Calcium fortifies bone and also strengthens teeth.
What does “fortify” mean? ________________________________________
6. The absurd idea that people from outer space live among us is as ridiculous as the belief that the Earth is
flat.
What does “absurd” mean? ________________________________________
7. Judges are supposed to be impartial, but the judge in Rodolfo’s trial didn’t seem fair to me.
What does “impartial” mean? ________________________________________
8. In the boxing match, the referee intervened only twice. And each time he came between the boxers, they
quickly broke apart and started boxing again.
What does “intervene” mean? ________________________________________
9. Some people hate to admit an error. My boss, for instance, will never concede that he might be wrong.
What does “concede” mean? ________________________________________
10. Students are often apprehensive of final exams, but with proper studying, they don’t have to be fearful.
What does “apprehensive” mean? ________________________________________