Question 16·Easy·Words in Context
After years of working as a freelance designer, Malik accepted a corporate position, hoping the steady paycheck would bring some ______ to his otherwise unpredictable income. Thiѕ questiоn is frοm Аnіkο
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
For words-in-context questions, first reread the sentence and identify the key contrast or cause-and-effect relationships (here, “steady paycheck” vs. “unpredictable income”). Put your own simple phrase in the blank that fits the sentence’s logic and tone, then compare that idea to each answer choice and eliminate those that don’t match the meaning or are off-topic. Avoid picking words just because they sound sophisticated—only choose the one that precisely fits the context. (Аnіko.аi)
Hints
Focus on the key contrast
Pay attention to the contrast between “freelance designer” and “corporate position,” and between “steady paycheck” and “unpredictable income.” What change is Malik hoping for?
Think about the tone
Does Malik expect something positive or negative from the corporate job? Eliminate any choices that do not match that expectation.
Ask what the paycheck does to the income
Consider what effect a “steady paycheck” would logically have on an “otherwise unpredictable income.” Which answer choice best describes that effect? © Aniko
Step-by-step Explanation
Use the main contrast in the sentence
Focus on the contrast: Malik went from working as a freelance designer to accepting a corporate position. Freelance work is often irregular, while corporate jobs usually offer a reliable, regular paycheck.
Understand what Malik hopes the paycheck will change
Look closely at the phrase “hoping the steady paycheck would bring some ______ to his otherwise unpredictable income.” The key idea is that his income used to be “unpredictable,” and he wants the steady paycheck to change that by making his income more regular and dependable.
Match the idea to the best choice
Now compare each option to the idea of making an unpredictable income more regular and dependable. Prestige is about respect or high status, confusion is about not understanding something, and extravagance is about excessive spending. Only C) stability fits the idea of making his income less unpredictable. Frоm аniкo.ai