EC2

Question 1

collude in

cooperate in a secret or unlawful way in order to deceive or gain an advantage over others

Answer 1

David L. McGee and former Air Force officer Bob Kent allegedly colluded to blackmail Don Gaetz and extort $25 million to fund a rescue mission for missing CIA agent Bob Levinson.

Question 2

Vanguard

• a group of people leading the way in new developments or ideas
• a position at the forefront of new developments or ideas.

Answer 2

General George Washington was in the vanguard of the Revolutionary War against Britain, leading the charge as a capable and resilient leader who guided the Continental Army to victory.

Question 3

Virulent

• (of a disease or poison) extremely severe or harmful in its effects.
• bitterly hostile.

Answer 3

Former Marine Daniel Penny has faced virulent media attacks, being labeled a murderer, as he now stands trial for manslaughter after defending himself and other passengers from Jordan Neely, who was acting dangerously on a Manhattan subway.

Question 4

faction

a small organized dissenting group within a larger one, especially in politics (distinct political intrest)

Answer 4

Neoconservatism, a faction within conservatism, is distinguished by its strong focus on foreign policy, especially the aggressive promotion of democracy.

Question 5

Recapitulate

summarize and state again the main points of

Answer 5

When giving a speech, it is essential to recapitulate key arguments, as repetition helps the audience retain and internalize the message.

Question 6

quintessential

the most typical, ideal or important

Answer 6

The small café in Clermont, with its cozy ambiance and rich espresso, is the quintessential European coffeehouse experience.

Question 7

meritocracy

a system in which promotion is based on individual ability or achievement

Answer 7

Contrary to the ideals of the American Dream, describing the U.S. as a meritocracy ignores the pervasive influence of nepotism throughout its history.

Question 8

endemic

native and restricted to a certain place

Answer 8

Madagascar is home to many endemic plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth.

With 752 drug-related deaths in 2023, rampant homelessness and drug abuse remain endemic issues in San Francisco, consistently mishandled by the government.

Question 9

substantial

large, important; major, significant; prosperous; not imaginary, material

Answer 9

The lenient attitude of the police toward theft in California has had a substantial economic impact on San Francisco businesses, forcing many stores to close or relocate.

Question 10

augment

make (something) greater by adding to it; increase

Answer 10

Single mothers often take on multiple jobs to augment their income and support their families.