Because historian Mara Bell commends a recent monograph only twice, some readers have characterized her review as grudging. In both instances, however, Bell departs from her otherwise restrained prose, calling the book’s archival synthesis “a revelation” and its final chapter “nothing short of masterful.” The review’s praise, when it appears, is _____.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
For Words-in-Context questions, identify both the general attitude and the precise dimension the blank describes, such as frequency, intensity, certainty, or scope. Pay special attention to contrast words and qualifying phrases, then reject choices that are true of the passage generally but do not fit the blank’s specific role.
Hints
Notice the contrast
The word “however” signals a contrast between how often Bell praises the book and what her praise sounds like when she gives it.
Focus on the quotations
Consider the intensity conveyed by “a revelation” and “nothing short of masterful.” What attitude do those phrases express?
Separate two dimensions
Some choices may describe the frequency of the praise, while others describe its manner or strength. Determine which dimension the final sentence emphasizes.
Step-by-step Explanation
Identify the apparent tension
The first sentence says Bell commends the monograph only twice, so her praise is infrequent. Some readers therefore interpret the review as grudging, but the word however signals that the next sentence will complicate that interpretation.
Examine how the praise is expressed
Bell calls the archival synthesis “a revelation” and the final chapter “nothing short of masterful.” These are forceful, enthusiastic expressions of approval, especially because Bell departs from her normally restrained prose when making them.
Distinguish frequency from intensity
The phrase “when it appears” directs attention to the character of each instance of praise, not to how often praise occurs. Effusive means expressing approval or enthusiasm freely and strongly, so it precisely describes Bell’s language. Intermittent concerns frequency and is therefore a tempting but less logical choice.