Question 43·Easy·Text Structure and Purpose
After weeks of cloudy nights, the comet finally appeared, faint but unmistakable, above the eastern horizon. Astronomer Leah Kim exclaimed that its arrival was "a whisper from the outer solar system."
Which choice best describes the primary function of the underlined portion in the sentence?
For function questions, reread the sentence and paraphrase the underlined portion in plain language. Decide whether it’s literal (facts, definitions, names) or figurative (imagery, tone). Then choose the option that best matches what the underlined portion adds to the sentence, and eliminate choices that describe information the sentence never provides.
Hints
Connect the underlined words to the earlier description
How does the image of a “whisper” relate to the comet being described as “faint but unmistakable”?
Check for non-literal language
Can a comet literally whisper? If not, the underlined portion is likely creating an image rather than giving a scientific fact.
Use process of elimination
Cross out any choices about official names, measured sounds, or scientific composition if the sentence doesn’t actually provide those.
Step-by-step Explanation
Read the underlined portion in context
The sentence describes the comet as “faint but unmistakable,” then includes the underlined description "a whisper from the outer solar system."
Identify whether the language is literal or figurative
A comet cannot literally “whisper.” The word “whisper” suggests something quiet, gentle, and easy to miss, which fits the description of the comet as faint.
Eliminate choices that don’t match what the phrase does
The underlined words do not provide a formal astronomical designation, report a real measured sound, or describe chemical substances. They create an image and tone.
Select the choice that matches the function
The underlined portion uses figurative language to emphasize the comet’s subtle appearance.