Unit 10

Question 1

beneficent

Answer 1

adj. kindly; doing good

The theologian discussed the question of why a beneficent and omnipotent God allows bad things to happen to good people.

Question 2

bifurcate

Answer 2

v. to divide into two parts

Contemporary physicists generally bifurcate their discipline into two parts–classical physics and modern physics.

Question 3

blandishment

Answer 3

n. flattery

Despite the salesperson’s blandishments, Donna did not buy the car.

Question 4

blasé

Answer 4

adj. bored because of infrequent indulgence; unconcerned

We were amazed by John’s blasé attitude toward school; he seems to have made it a rule never to open a book.

Question 5

bolster

Answer 5

v. to give a boost to; prop up; support

The president has visited the state several times to bolster his sagging popularity there.

Question 6

bombastic

Answer 6

adj. pompous; using inflated language

Nearly lost in the senator’s long, bombastic speech were several sensible ideas

Question 7

boorish

Answer 7

adj. rude; insensitive

Bob apologized for his boorish behavior at the party, saying he hadn’t realized that it was such a formal occasion.

Question 8

bovine

Answer 8

adj. cowlike

Emma is very bovine.

Question 9

brazen

Answer 9

adj. bold; shameless

The brazen student irritated his teacher.

Question 10

broach

Answer 10

v. to mention for the first time

Steve’s boss knew that she couldn’t put off warning him about his poor performance and decided to broach the subject next time she saw him.