GRE 2024 Verbal Reasoning Test 9 Question Paper with Solutions PDF

[6pt]
The sentence suggests a significant shift in the perspective of the peers regarding the theory. Initially, the peers were skeptical, which clearly indicates that they harbored doubts or uncertainty about the validity and value of the theory. Skepticism in this context reflects hesitation and a lack of full trust or belief in the theory’s potential. However, as time progressed and more evidence or understanding emerged, these peers gradually came to recognize the importance and significance of the theory. This transition—from initial doubt and reluctance to eventual recognition and acceptance—is crucial to grasp when determining the most appropriate word to describe their changing attitude.
[6pt]
The word ``embraced'' captures this transformation exceptionally well. It implies more than simple acceptance; it suggests a positive, enthusiastic endorsement or wholehearted support of the theory after initially rejecting or questioning it. To embrace something means to welcome it openly and with approval, often accompanied by a sense of eagerness or conviction. Thus, the peers’ journey from skepticism to active support aligns perfectly with the connotations of this word. It emphasizes not only that they accepted the theory but that they did so with enthusiasm and genuine approval.
[6pt]
In contrast, other words such as ``tolerated'' or ``acknowledged'' fail to convey this depth of positive change. Tolerated suggests merely enduring or allowing the theory’s presence without enthusiasm, while acknowledged implies recognition without necessarily implying approval or support. These terms lack the sense of active, enthusiastic acceptance that embraced effectively communicates. Therefore, considering the context and the nuance of the peers’ changing attitude, ``embraced'' is the most accurate and fitting choice.
[6pt]
Hence, the correct answer is (C) embraced, as it best describes the peers’ progression from initial doubt to wholehearted acceptance and support of the theory. Quick Tip: In vocabulary-based questions, look for contextual clues that suggest the attitude or response of the subjects. Words like "skeptical" followed by "later came to see the value" often indicate a positive change in response.

[6pt]
The sentence describes a situation where the students struggle to stay awake during the lectures. This clearly suggests that the lectures were not engaging or stimulating enough, leading to boredom or a lack of interest. When students find it difficult to stay awake, it is often because the content is dull, repetitive, or monotonous, which highlights the need for an appropriate word that accurately conveys this idea.
[6pt]
The word ``tedious'' perfectly captures this sentiment. It refers to something that is long, boring, or repetitive, often causing a sense of weariness, frustration, or mental fatigue. In the context of the sentence, ``tedious'' describes lectures that are so uninteresting or monotonous that they make it difficult for students to stay focused and attentive throughout the duration.
[6pt]
Other possible words such as ``interesting'' or ``enlightening'' would convey the opposite meaning, suggesting that the lectures were engaging, thought-provoking, and kept the students alert and attentive. This directly contradicts the situation presented in the sentence. Therefore, these options are not appropriate.
[6pt]
Given the context and the effect the lectures had on the students, ``tedious'' is the most fitting and accurate choice to describe the nature of the lectures.
[6pt]
Hence, the correct choice is (B) tedious. Quick Tip: Look for clues that indicate a negative reaction, such as "struggling to stay awake," which points to something dull or tiresome. Words like "engaging" and "illuminating" would contradict this clue.

[6pt]
In this sentence, the first blank indicates that the argument appears to be perfect or without any noticeable flaws at first glance. The word ``seemingly'' signals that the initial impression is one of perfection, suggesting that the argument is initially viewed in an ideal light. The word ``flawless'' aligns well with this meaning, as it describes something free from defects or imperfections, making it the best fit for the first blank.
[6pt]
However, the second blank introduces a shift in perspective. The sentence implies that upon closer inspection, the argument reveals certain issues that were not immediately obvious. The word ``contradictions'' is the most fitting choice here, as it refers to logical inconsistencies or conflicts that might only become apparent after a deeper analysis of the argument. This perfectly aligns with the idea that the argument, while seemingly flawless, contains flaws that undermine its validity when scrutinized.
[6pt]
While other words like ``errors'' or ``flaws'' could also fit, ``contradictions'' specifically highlights logical inconsistencies, which is a stronger and more precise term in this context.
[6pt]
Hence, the correct choices are (A) flawless for the first blank and (A) contradictions for the second. Quick Tip: When you see words like "seemingly" or "initially," they often suggest an appearance that may not be entirely true. Look for the second part of the sentence for clues about a deeper or contradictory meaning.

[6pt]
In the first part of the sentence, the artist’s earlier work is described as being dismissed, which suggests that it was criticized or not well-received. The reason for this dismissal appears to be a perceived lack of originality or innovation. The word ``derivative'' means that the work is imitative of others and lacks new or original ideas. This makes it the most appropriate choice for the first blank, as it aligns with the idea of the artist being criticized for creating work that seemed unoriginal or overly influenced by others.
[6pt]
The second part of the sentence introduces a contrast: the artist’s recent exhibition has impressed critics by showing a new level of something admirable. The sentence structure implies a positive shift in the artist’s work, suggesting that the quality now being praised contrasts with being ``derivative.'' The word ``creativity'' fits best in this context, as it refers to the ability to produce original and imaginative ideas—precisely what the earlier work lacked. This contrast between being previously ``derivative'' and now demonstrating ``creativity'' is logical and effectively captures the intended meaning of the sentence.
[6pt]
Other options for the second blank, such as ``technique'' or ``precision,'' do not contrast as strongly with ``derivative'' and do not necessarily explain why the critics would be newly impressed.
[6pt]
Hence, the correct choices are (A) derivative for the first blank and (C) creativity for the second. Quick Tip: When you see a contrast in the sentence (e.g., "dismissed" vs. "demonstrated"), focus on the shift in meaning, where the first part may imply a negative view and the second part highlights a positive change.

[6pt]
The sentence draws a clear contrast between the scientist’s approach and those of others who failed to make significant progress. This contrast suggests that the scientist succeeded by using a method that was different from the norm. Therefore, the first blank must describe an approach that deviates from commonly accepted or standard practices. The word ``unorthodox'' fits this context perfectly, as it refers to methods that are unconventional, not based on traditional or established ways of thinking. This emphasizes that the scientist’s success came from thinking or working outside the usual boundaries.
[6pt]
For the second blank, the sentence mentions that other approaches had ``yet to yield a breakthrough,'' implying they were ineffective or unsuccessful. These approaches are being contrasted with the scientist’s ``unorthodox'' method. Thus, the blank must describe these other, less effective approaches in a way that highlights their conventional nature. The word ``traditional'' is the best fit here, as it refers to established, long-standing methods that are widely accepted but, in this case, did not produce the desired results.
[6pt]
Together, the words ``unorthodox'' and ``traditional'' create a clear contrast between the innovative method that led to success and the conventional ones that fell short.
[6pt]
Hence, the correct choices are (C) unorthodox for the first blank and (B) traditional for the second. Quick Tip: Contrast clues like “led to breakthroughs” vs. “failed to achieve” often indicate that one method is effective while the other is not. This contrast helps identify which words have opposing or complementary meanings.

[6pt]
The sentence raises doubts about a study, specifically pointing to two major concerns: a small sample size and poor methodology. These issues suggest that the study’s findings may not be reliable. For the first blank, we need a word that captures the idea of whether the results can be trusted or are scientifically sound. The word ``validity'' refers to the extent to which a concept, conclusion, or measurement is well-founded and corresponds accurately to the real world. In research contexts, questioning a study's validity means questioning the reliability and credibility of its results. Therefore, ``validity'' is the most appropriate choice for the first blank.
[6pt]
For the second blank, the sentence highlights that the methodology used in the study was a problem. Since the context is critical of the methodology, we need a word with a negative connotation that indicates something is wrong with the way the study was conducted. The word ``flawed'' means defective, faulty, or containing mistakes. It directly conveys the idea that the methodology was not sound or rigorous, which undermines the quality of the research.
[6pt]
Together, the terms ``validity'' and ``flawed'' clearly articulate the main concerns about the study: that its conclusions may not be trustworthy due to defective methods and an insufficient sample size.
[6pt]
Hence, the correct choices are (B) validity for the first blank and (D) flawed for the second. Quick Tip: Watch for negative cues like “questioned” or “small sample size.” These suggest the sentence is highlighting problems, so look for critical or negative word choices.

[6pt]
The sentence indicates that the politician’s speech was crafted to appeal to a broad and diverse audience. This suggests that the speech was not aimed at a specific group but instead tried to reach people from various backgrounds, ideologies, or communities. For the first blank, we need a word that captures this sense of openness and broad appeal. The word ``inclusive'' is ideal, as it refers to efforts that intentionally aim to incorporate and address the interests of all people, regardless of differences. It implies that the speech was welcoming and considered the perspectives of many different groups.
[6pt]
For the second blank, the goal of the speech is again described as trying to resonate with a wide range of voters. This reinforces the idea of general, widespread appeal. The word ``universal'' captures this meaning well, as it denotes something that is applicable or relevant to all people or groups, rather than being limited in scope. ``Universal'' conveys the intention of the speech to transcend particular interests and speak to common values or concerns.
[6pt]
Taken together, ``inclusive'' and ``universal'' effectively communicate the idea that the speech was broad, welcoming, and designed to reach as many voters as possible.
[6pt]
Hence, the correct choices are (B) inclusive for the first blank and (D) universal for the second. Quick Tip: When both blanks share the same set of options, identify the tone of the sentence first—positive or negative—and choose words that are both consistent in meaning and complement each other contextually.

[6pt]
The sentence highlights the professor’s ability to communicate difficult material in a way that students could easily understand. This suggests that the professor’s explanations were especially clear and effective. For the first blank, we need a word that conveys this clarity. The word ``lucid'' is ideal in this context, as it means expressed clearly and easy to understand. It often refers to explanations or speech that make complicated topics easier to grasp. Therefore, ``lucid'' fits perfectly for describing the professor’s style of teaching.
[6pt]
For the second blank, the sentence refers to ideas that students were able to understand with ease, despite their inherent difficulty. The phrase “even the most” signals that these ideas were at the upper end of the difficulty spectrum. The word ``complex'' accurately describes such ideas, as it refers to things that are complicated, intricate, or made up of many interconnected parts. ``Complex'' is commonly used to describe advanced or difficult academic concepts, which makes it the most appropriate choice for the second blank.
[6pt]
Together, ``lucid'' and ``complex'' create a meaningful contrast: the professor's clarity made even the most difficult ideas accessible and understandable.
[6pt]
Hence, the correct choices are (B) lucid for the first blank and (E) complex for the second. Quick Tip: Look for contrast or emphasis clues like “even the most” to determine the difficulty or intensity of the second blank. Then make sure the first blank logically explains how that difficulty was overcome.

[6pt]
The sentence emphasizes the effectiveness of the manager’s approach in transforming the attitude of employees. Specifically, it describes how even those who were previously indifferent or disengaged began to feel motivated to improve. For the first blank, we are looking for a word that reflects the manager's positive influence and ability to encourage change. The word ``inspirational'' is the best fit, as it means providing motivation or encouragement, often by setting a strong example or conveying enthusiasm. An ``inspirational'' approach would naturally lead others to feel uplifted and driven to act, which aligns perfectly with the sentence.
[6pt]
For the second blank, the sentence describes employees who were moved to improve despite their prior lack of motivation. This implies that these employees were once uninterested or emotionally detached from their work. The word ``apathetic'' accurately captures this state. It refers to a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern, and is commonly used to describe individuals who are disengaged or indifferent. Thus, the contrast between being ``apathetic'' and then feeling inspired underscores the impact of the manager’s approach.
[6pt]
Together, the words ``inspirational'' and ``apathetic'' create a clear before-and-after dynamic, highlighting the transformation in the employees' attitudes.
[6pt]
Hence, the correct choices are (B) inspirational for the first blank and (C) apathetic for the second. Quick Tip: Look for clues in the sentence showing a change in attitude. Words like "even the most apathetic" highlight that initially unmotivated people were positively affected.

[6pt]
The sentence conveys that the policy was designed to be wide-ranging and cover all necessary aspects, indicating that it was meant to be thorough and inclusive in scope. The word ``comprehensive'' aptly describes such a policy because it means complete and covering all or nearly all elements or aspects. This makes ``comprehensive'' the best choice for the first blank.
[6pt]
However, despite the policy’s broad and thorough intentions, the sentence goes on to mention difficulties encountered during its implementation. This suggests that putting the policy into practice was not smooth or easy. The word ``problematic'' fits well here, as it describes something that causes problems or difficulties. Using ``problematic'' in the second blank effectively highlights the contrast between the policy’s ambitious design and the challenges faced during execution.
[6pt]
Therefore, the sentence as a whole expresses that while the policy aimed to be all-encompassing, it was met with significant obstacles in practice.
[6pt]
Hence, the correct choices are (A) comprehensive for the first blank and (B) problematic for the second. Quick Tip: Contrast words like “designed to be” versus “implementation proved to be” often signal a positive intention followed by a negative reality.

[6pt]
The passage clearly states that digital photography ``democratized the art form and made it more accessible to a wider audience.'' This means that digital photography allowed more people, regardless of background or expertise, to participate in and enjoy photography. Therefore, option (B) is directly supported by the passage.
[6pt]
The other options either contradict this idea or introduce concepts that are not mentioned or implied. For example, any choice suggesting exclusivity or a limitation on access contradicts the notion of democratization and wider accessibility. Hence, they cannot be the correct answer.
[6pt]
Thus, based on the information given, the best choice is (B). Quick Tip: When answering comprehension questions, look for key phrases in the passage that directly address the question. Words like "accessible," "wider audience," and "democratizing" are important clues.

[6pt]
The passage compares two forms of photography: digital and traditional film photography. It emphasizes that digital photography uses electronic sensors to capture images, while traditional photography depends on chemical processes involving physical film. This contrast is central to understanding how the two methods differ fundamentally.
[6pt]
Digital photography’s reliance on electronic sensors means images are recorded as digital data, which can be easily stored, edited, and shared using computers. In contrast, traditional film photography involves exposing light-sensitive film to capture an image, which then requires chemical development to produce a photograph. This physical medium is less flexible and requires more manual processing.
[6pt]
By focusing on this technological distinction, the passage clearly supports the idea that digital photography differs from traditional film photography in terms of how images are captured and processed. Option (A) correctly encapsulates this key difference, making it the best choice.
[6pt]
Hence, the correct answer is (A). Quick Tip: Look for sentences that introduce new concepts by contrasting them with familiar ideas; this often signals a comparison.

[6pt]
The phrase ``democratizing the art form'' in the passage implies that digital photography has made photography more accessible and available to a broader range of people. It suggests that instead of being restricted to a select few—such as professional photographers or those with access to expensive equipment—photography can now be practiced and enjoyed by the general public.
[6pt]
This idea of accessibility means that digital photography removes barriers and allows more individuals, regardless of their background or skill level, to engage with the art form. It is not about limiting access or politicizing photography, but rather about expanding participation.
[6pt]
Therefore, option (B), which aligns with the notion of increasing accessibility and broadening the audience, is the best interpretation of the passage. The other options either contradict this idea or introduce concepts not supported by the text.
[6pt]
Hence, the correct choice is (B). Quick Tip: Focus on figurative phrases and look for context clues in the passage that explain their meaning.

[6pt]
The passage emphasizes the flexibility and convenience offered by digital photography compared to traditional film photography. Specifically, it points out that digital images can be easily edited, copied, and shared due to their electronic nature. This contrasts with traditional film photography, which relies on a physical medium that must be developed chemically and cannot be altered or duplicated as effortlessly.
[6pt]
This distinction highlights one of the key advantages of digital photography: the ability to manipulate and distribute images quickly and conveniently using digital tools and platforms. Such advantages have contributed significantly to the widespread adoption of digital photography.
[6pt]
Therefore, option (B), which captures this advantage, is the correct choice. Quick Tip: Identify comparative phrases that point out benefits or improvements when contrasting two subjects.

[6pt]
The passage explicitly mentions that digital photography ``democratized the art form and made it accessible to a wider audience.'' This means that digital photography has broadened the reach of photography, allowing more people—from professionals to amateurs—to engage in taking and sharing photographs. It removed barriers such as high costs and technical complexity associated with traditional film photography.
[6pt]
By expanding photography to a larger and more diverse group of people, digital photography has transformed it from an exclusive art or hobby into a widely practiced activity. Therefore, the phrase ``expanded photography to more people'' accurately captures the essence of the passage’s message.
[6pt]
Hence, option (C) is the correct choice. Quick Tip: Look for overall themes or implications in the passage about changes and their effects.