Question 107·Medium·Words in Context
Despite the enthusiastic reviews, the editors were _____ to publish the manuscript, worried that its unconventional structure would alienate readers.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
For SAT Words-in-Context questions, always start by underlining key context clues around the blank—especially contrast words (like “despite,” “although”) and any emotional or attitude words (like “worried,” “excited”). Use those clues to decide whether the missing word should be positive, negative, hesitant, confident, etc. Then quickly eliminate choices whose basic meaning or tone clashes with the sentence, and pick the one remaining option that clearly matches the situation rather than relying on whether the word simply “sounds smart.”
Hints
Notice the contrast word
Pay attention to the word "Despite" at the beginning. It tells you that the editors’ attitude is different from the “enthusiastic reviews.” What kind of difference do you expect?
Focus on the cause of their attitude
Look closely at the part after the comma: "worried that its unconventional structure would alienate readers." How does this worry affect how eager they would be to publish?
Check the tone of each option
Ask yourself for each choice: does this word fit people who are worried about possible negative reactions, or does it suggest happiness, neutrality, or firm confidence instead?
Step-by-step Explanation
Use the contrast signal word
The sentence begins with "Despite", which signals a contrast.
- On one side: "enthusiastic reviews" (very positive reaction).
- On the other side: what the editors feel or do, which should contrast with that enthusiasm. So we expect the editors’ attitude not to be as positive and enthusiastic as the reviews.
Use the clause after the comma as a clue
Look at the information after the comma: "worried that its unconventional structure would alienate readers."
- The editors are worried, not confident.
- Their worry suggests they are hesitating or holding back about publishing the manuscript. So the blank must describe an attitude that matches this worry and hesitation, not one of excitement or strong confidence.
Check each answer choice against the context
Go through the options and ask: Does this fit editors who are worried about publishing?
- A) jubilant means very happy, overjoyed, or triumphant. That clashes with being worried.
- B) impartial means neutral or not taking sides. That’s about fairness, not about worry or hesitation to publish.
- C) steadfast means firm, unwavering, or very determined. That suggests strong confidence, not concern that readers will be alienated. All three do not match the cautious, worried tone.
Confirm the remaining choice fits the meaning
After eliminating A, B, and C, only D is left.
- D) reticent means reserved, reluctant, or not eager to act or speak. Editors who are reticent to publish because they are worried about alienating readers fit the sentence perfectly: they are holding back from publishing despite the enthusiastic reviews. So the best answer is D) reticent.