Question 115·Easy·Words in Context
Although the new cooking show is filmed in a studio, the host's spontaneous reactions make the program seem remarkably _____.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
For single-blank vocabulary questions, first underline key context clues (like contrast words such as "although" and descriptive words such as "spontaneous" or "remarkably"). Then predict in your own simple words what should go in the blank (for example, “seems real” or “seems boring”). Only after you have a prediction should you look at the answer choices and eliminate any that clash with your predicted meaning or the sentence’s tone. Be especially quick to reject options that directly contradict a clue word (such as "rehearsed" vs. "spontaneous"). This predict-then-match method helps you avoid being distracted by tricky vocabulary and saves time.
Hints
Use the contrast word
Pay attention to the word "Although" at the beginning. It shows a contrast between being filmed in a studio and how the show seems because of the host's reactions.
Look at tone and clues around the blank
Notice the phrases "spontaneous reactions" and "remarkably." Do they suggest something positive or negative about the show?
Test each option with the idea of spontaneity
Ask yourself: If the host's reactions are spontaneous, would that make the show seem boring, carefully planned, not touchable, or something else? Eliminate options that clearly clash with "spontaneous."
Think about studio vs. how it feels
Even though the show is filmed in a studio (an artificial setting), the host’s behavior changes how it feels. What kind of word would describe a show that feels more natural because of this?
Step-by-step Explanation
Notice the contrast signal word
The sentence begins with "Although," which tells you there is a contrast between two ideas:
- Idea 1: The cooking show is filmed in a studio (artificial setting).
- Idea 2: The host's spontaneous reactions change how the program seems.
So the word in the blank should show how the show appears different from a typical, artificial studio show because of the host’s behavior.
Predict the general meaning for the blank
Focus on the phrase "the host's spontaneous reactions" and "remarkably".
- "Spontaneous" suggests natural, unplanned, and lively behavior.
- "Remarkably" suggests this is a very noticeable and positive effect.
So, even though it is filmed in a studio, the show ends up seeming more natural and real, not fake or stiff. The blank should express that positive, natural-feeling quality.
Check each option against your prediction and the tone
Now compare each choice to the meaning you predicted and the positive tone:
- "Tedious" means boring or tiresome. That conflicts with "spontaneous reactions" and the positive word "remarkably".
- "Rehearsed" means practiced or planned ahead of time. That is the opposite of "spontaneous" and does not match the idea.
- "Intangible" means not able to be touched; abstract. That does not logically describe how a TV show "seems" because of reactions.
Only one choice matches the idea that the show feels real and natural because of the host’s reactions.
Select the word that best matches the context
The remaining option, "authentic," means genuine or real. This fits perfectly with the idea that the host's spontaneous reactions make the studio-filmed show seem like a real, natural cooking experience. Therefore, the correct answer is C) authentic.