R1

Question 1

insipid

Answer 1

1. lacking flavour, weak or tasteless.

“mugs of insipid coffee”

2. lacking vigour or interest.

“many artists continued to churn out insipid, shallow works”

Question 2

heirloom

Answer 2

1. a piece of property (such as a deed or charter) that descends to the heir inheritance of real property
2. something of special value handed down from one generation to another

The pin she’s wearing is a family heirloom.

Question 3

insidious

Answer 3

1. proceeding in a gradual, subtle way, but with very harmful effects.

“sexual harassment is a serious and insidious problem”

Question 4

arbitrary

Answer 4

1. random

“an arbitrary decision”

2. unrestrained and autocratic in the use of authority.

“a country under arbitrary government”

Question 5

incumbent

Answer 5

1. necessary for (someone) as a duty or responsibility.

• the government realized that it was incumbent on them to act

2. (of an official or regime) currently holding office.

• an annual event at which the incumbent president traditionally delivers a speech poking fun at himself

3. the holder of an office or post.

the present incumbent will soon be retiring

Question 7

vicissitude

Answer 7

change of circumstances or fortune, typically one that is unwelcome or unpleasant.
“her husband’s sharp vicissitudes of fortune”

Question 8

Numinous

Answer 8

having a strong religious or spiritual quality; indicating or suggesting the presence of a divinity.
“the strange, numinous beauty of this ancient landmark”

Question 9

Iniquitous

Answer 9

Grossly unfair and morally wrong.
“an iniquitous tax”