The author presents two opposing views on AI's impact (job displacement vs. augmentation) but then offers a solution: adapting education and training to enable collaboration with AI. This 'proactive approach' is highlighted as the key to 'mitigate disruptive effects and harness AI's transformative potential.' Therefore, the main argument is about the importance of adapting to AI through education and training.

Sanguine means optimistic or positive, especially in an apparently difficult or challenging situation. The opposite of being optimistic is being pessimistic or doubtful. 'Pessimistic' directly conveys this opposite meaning, reflecting a negative or gloomy outlook.

In option C, the subject is 'Every one', which is singular. Therefore, the verb should also be singular ('was'), not plural ('were'). 'Every one of the proposals' is a singular construction, requiring a singular verb. The correct sentence should be: 'Every one of the proposals submitted was carefully reviewed by the board.'

The sentence describes the manuscript as having 'faded script and archaic language' which makes it difficult to decipher. 'Obscure' means not discovered or known about; uncertain. This fits the context perfectly, implying that the manuscript's content or nature was not easily understood or known.

Option B is the most concise and grammatically correct. 'Despite the fact that' and 'in spite of the fact that' are wordy phrases that can often be replaced by simpler conjunctions like 'although' or 'though'. Option D uses a dangling participle ('Being tired') because it implies 'she' is being tired, but the construction is less formal and can sometimes lead to ambiguity, though here it's understandable, 'Although she was tired' is a clearer and more direct way to express the concession.

Approbatio means approval or praise. 'Commendation' is a direct synonym, meaning formal praise or approval. The context of the sentence (public praising their foresight) supports this meaning.

Parallel structure requires that items in a series have the same grammatical form. In option C, 'managing staff,' 'overseeing budgets,' and 'reporting to the director' all use the gerund (-ing) form, maintaining perfect parallelism. The other options break parallelism by mixing verb forms (e.g., gerunds with infinitives or different verb tenses/forms).

The passage mentions 'bioluminescence for attracting prey or mates' and 'food-scarce habitat,' which strongly implies a lack of light and food. 'Specialized enzymes that function under high pressure' points to extreme pressure. Therefore, the deep-sea environment is characterized by darkness, high pressure, and limited food resources.

'Meticulous' means showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise. This aligns perfectly with the description of 'all variables were meticulously controlled and every result was rigorously verified.'

A dangling modifier occurs when the modifying phrase does not clearly and logically modify the subject of the sentence. In option C, 'While walking through the park' modifies 'a rare bird,' which makes no sense (the bird wasn't walking). The phrase should modify the person who was walking. A correct version would be: 'While walking through the park, *we* spotted a rare bird.'

Loquacious means talkative or tending to talk a great deal. The opposite would be someone who is quiet or reserved in speech. 'Taciturn' means reserved or uncommunicative in speech; saying little, which is the direct opposite.

Option B is the most concise and grammatically sound sentence. Options A and D contain redundancy with 'the reason why... because of' and 'because of... the reason for'. Option C is grammatically correct but more wordy than necessary.

The passage explicitly states that sustainable development 'integrates economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection, recognizing that these pillars are interdependent.' This directly implies that these three aspects are interconnected and must be addressed together for true sustainability.

Dilapidation refers to the state of decay, ruin, or disrepair. 'Disrepair' is the closest synonym, directly meaning the state of being broken or in poor condition, especially as a result of neglect.

In option A, 'Each' is a singular indefinite pronoun, so it requires a singular possessive pronoun. 'Their' is plural. The sentence should correctly be: 'Each of the participants submitted his or her essay before the deadline.' Options B, D, and E correctly use singular pronouns for singular antecedents or plural for plural. Option C is correct because 'Neither John nor Mary' means the verb agrees with the closer subject, Mary, which is singular and feminine, hence 'her'.

'To throw caution to the wind' means to act recklessly or without careful consideration of the possible consequences, disregarding any warnings or risks. It implies a spontaneous and often imprudent decision.

The sentence indicates that the decision 'sparked protests,' implying strong disapproval or outrage. 'Censure' means the expression of formal disapproval, which fits the context of public backlash and protests.

Option B correctly uses the Oxford comma (or serial comma) before the conjunction 'and' when listing three or more items in a series. While sometimes optional, it is generally preferred for clarity and is considered correct usage.

The passage discusses the Roman Empire's rise (zenith, administrative brilliance), its decline (internal strife, fragmentation), and its lasting impact (legacy in law, language, architecture). Therefore, its primary purpose is to provide a concise overview of the Roman Empire's historical trajectory and its enduring legacy.

Cogent means clear, logical, and convincing. The opposite of convincing is unconvincing or weak. 'Ineffectual' means not producing any or the desired effect; lacking the ability or qualities to cope with a role or situation. In this context, an ineffectual argument would be one that fails to convince. 'Weak' could also work, but 'ineffectual' covers the lack of convincing power more broadly.

'Children' is an irregular plural noun. To show possession for irregular plural nouns that do not end in 's', an apostrophe followed by 's' ('s) is used. Therefore, 'children's' is the correct possessive form.

'Ingenious' means clever, original, and inventive. This fits the description of combining vibrant hues in 'unexpected and harmonious ways,' suggesting creativity and cleverness in her artistic approach.

Option E has a tense inconsistency. 'Although she tried her best, she failed the exam' is in the past tense. However, 'but she will try again next semester' shifts to the future tense without a clear transition or reason for the shift within the same clause describing the outcome of the exam. While it's understandable, a more consistent phrasing might be 'but she resolved to try again next semester' or 'but she plans to try again next semester' if the focus is on the past event and its immediate consequence/resolution. The shift to simple future 'will try' feels slightly abrupt in the context of describing a past event and its direct outcome.

The passage explicitly states that 'the intricate mechanisms underlying consciousness and complex cognitive processes remain largely a mystery.' This directly supports the idea that there is still much to learn about the brain's higher functions.

Erudition refers to the quality of having or showing great knowledge or learning. 'Scholarship' is a direct synonym, referring to academic study or achievement; learning of a high level.

'Affect' is typically a verb meaning to influence or produce a change in something. 'Effect' is typically a noun meaning the result or consequence of an action or other cause. In option B, 'affect' is correctly used as a verb indicating that the weather will influence the outcome.

The sentence implies that despite evidence against him, the defendant was firm in his belief of innocence. 'Adamant' means refusing to be persuaded or to change one's mind, which perfectly fits this context.

The passage highlights the importance of coral reefs ('incredibly diverse ecosystems,' 'crucial benefits') and then immediately pivots to the severe threats they face ('under severe threat'). The concluding sentence emphasizes that 'Urgent global action is required to protect and restore these irreplaceable natural wonders.' Thus, the central message is about the critical need for action to save coral reefs.

Abstruse means difficult to understand; obscure. The opposite would be something that is easy to understand or clear. 'Accessible' means able to be reached or entered; easily understood or appreciated. This is the best opposite in context, implying that the lecture would be easy to grasp.

In option A, 'Between' is a preposition, and prepositions take objective case pronouns. Therefore, 'I' should be 'me'. The correct phrase is 'Between you and me'.

'Grandeur' means splendor and impressiveness, especially of appearance or style. This fits the context of ancient ruins suggesting a highly advanced civilization, implying a magnificent scale or design.

The passage emphasizes that many scientific discoveries happen unexpectedly ('serendipity') rather than through direct planning. It then explains what enables these accidental discoveries: 'open mind, being attentive to anomalies, and possessing the foundational knowledge.' Thus, the main idea is that unexpected discoveries are crucial in science and require a prepared mind to recognize their significance.

Sagacious means having or showing keen mental discernment and good judgment; shrewd. 'Astute' is a very close synonym, meaning having or showing an ability to accurately assess situations or people and turn this to one's advantage; shrewd. Both imply wisdom and good judgment, especially in practical matters.

Option A correctly uses a pair of commas to set off an appositive phrase ('a vintage Mustang') that provides additional, non-essential information about the noun 'car'. This phrase acts as an interruption and needs commas on both sides.

The sentence indicates that the writings required 'careful study and interpretation to fully understand their profound meaning,' implying they were not easily accessible or straightforward. 'Cryptic' means having a meaning that is mysterious or obscure, which aligns with the need for careful study and interpretation.

In option A, 'reiterated' already means to say or do again. Adding 'once again' is redundant. The sentence could simply be 'He reiterated his statement to ensure clarity.'

The passage explicitly lists 'Concerns about data privacy, cybersecurity threats, and the spread of misinformation' as challenges. Therefore, the spread of misinformation is directly mentioned as a significant challenge.

Equivocal means open to more than one interpretation; ambiguous. The opposite would be clear, unambiguous, or straightforward. 'Unequivocal' means leaving no doubt; unambiguous, which is the direct opposite.

A semicolon is used to join two independent clauses that are closely related in meaning, without using a coordinating conjunction (like 'and', 'but', 'or'). Option B correctly uses a semicolon to connect two complete sentences: 'I went to the store' and 'I bought milk, eggs, and bread.' Option D is a comma splice, incorrectly joining two independent clauses with only a comma.

The sentence states there's 'no definitive explanation for its demise,' implying a mystery or puzzle. 'Enigma' means a person or thing that is mysterious, puzzling, or difficult to understand, which fits the context perfectly.

The passage explicitly states that urbanization 'often brings economic opportunities, improved infrastructure, and access to services.' Therefore, improved infrastructure is a stated benefit.

Skepticism means doubt as to the truth of something. 'Doubt' is a direct synonym, referring to a feeling of uncertainty or lack of conviction.

An ellipsis consists of three dots, typically with spaces before and after, or within a word to indicate omission. Option A correctly places the ellipsis directly after the last word of the quoted fragment, followed by a space before the closing quotation mark, indicating words were omitted or the speaker trailed off.

'Phenomenal' means remarkably or exceptionally good; very great or impressive. This word fits the context of a product that 'quickly dominating the market and exceeding all sales expectations,' indicating an extraordinary level of success.

The passage states that a digital detox 'aims to reduce stress, improve focus, and foster real-world connections.' Option A directly combines these stated aims.

Intact means not damaged or impaired in any way; complete. The opposite would be something that is broken, damaged, or in pieces. 'Fragmented' means broken into small or separate parts, which is the best opposite in this context.

In titles of books, articles, etc., capitalize the first and last words, and all major words (nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, and pronouns). Do not capitalize articles (a, an, the), coordinating conjunctions (and, but, or, for, nor, so, yet), or prepositions (in, of, on, at, to, etc.) unless they are the first or last word of the title. Option A follows these rules correctly: 'The' (first word) and 'Catcher' (noun) are capitalized, while 'in' and 'the' (prepositions/articles) are not.

'Tactful' means having or showing sensitivity in dealing with others or with difficult issues. This fits the description of a response that avoids offending while still conveying a message, indicating careful and considerate communication.

In option D, 'illicit' means illegal or forbidden. The word that means to draw forth or evoke is 'elicit'. So, 'She tried to elicit a response from the quiet student' would be the correct usage.

The passage explicitly states that 'regular mindfulness practice can lead to reduced stress, improved emotional regulation, and enhanced cognitive function.' Therefore, improved emotional regulation is a direct benefit mentioned.

Profound means very great or intense; having or showing great knowledge or insight. 'Deep' is a direct synonym, meaning extending far down from the top or surface; (of a feeling or quality) very intense or ingrained.

'Disinterested' means impartial or unbiased, not influenced by personal feelings or considerations. 'Uninterested' means not interested or indifferent. Option B correctly uses 'disinterested' to describe an impartial judge who has no personal stake or bias in the proceedings. Options A, C, and D incorrectly use 'disinterested' when 'uninterested' would be the appropriate word.

The sentence implies that the prophecy was difficult to understand, leading to centuries of debate and varying interpretations. 'Ambiguous' means open to more than one interpretation; having a double meaning. This fits the context of scholars debating its meaning.

The passage states that citizen science 'not only expands the scope and scale of data collection but also fosters scientific literacy and public engagement.' Thus, fostering scientific literacy and public engagement is a primary benefit.

Didactic means intended to teach, particularly in having moral instruction as an ulterior motive. The opposite would be something that is not intended to teach, or is more engaging and less preachy. 'Informal' means relaxed, friendly, or unofficial, which is the closest opposite to a formal, instructional, or preachy tone.

In option C, 'After painting the fence' is a participial phrase that modifies the subject. However, the subject 'the house' did not paint the fence. This is a dangling modifier. The sentence should logically state who painted the fence, for example: 'After painting the fence, *they* made the house look much better' or 'After *they* painted the fence, the house looked much better.'

'Muckraking' refers to the action of searching out and publicizing scandalous information about famous people in an underhanded way, or more generally, investigative journalism that exposes corruption or wrongdoing. This perfectly fits the context of exposing government corruption.

The passage states that these microbes 'aid in digestion, synthesize vitamins, and even influence our immune system and mood.' These are all critical functions for maintaining overall health, which is explicitly stated as the 'crucial role' of the microbiome.

Prosaic means commonplace, uninspired, or dull. 'Mundane' is a direct synonym, meaning lacking interest or excitement; dull. Both imply a lack of originality or excitement that would make it difficult for an audience to stay engaged.

For counterfactual or hypothetical statements (things that are not true or unlikely to be true), the subjunctive mood is used. In 'if' clauses expressing such conditions, 'were' is used for all subjects, including singular ones like 'I'. So, 'If I were' is the correct form, not 'If I was'.

'Excavated' means to dig out material from (an area of ground) in order to find archaeological remains, which perfectly fits the context of archaeologists uncovering a buried temple and its hidden chambers.

The passage explicitly states that fast fashion 'contributes to textile waste, excessive water consumption, and chemical pollution.' It also mentions 'exploitative working conditions.' Therefore, excessive textile waste is a major environmental consequence mentioned.

Acrimony means bitterness or ill feeling. The opposite would be friendliness, goodwill, or harmony. 'Concord' means agreement or harmony between people or groups, which is the direct opposite of bitterness and ill feeling.

In the passive voice, the subject of the sentence receives the action, rather than performing it. It typically uses a form of 'to be' (is, was, were, has been, etc.) followed by the past participle of the main verb, and often includes a 'by' phrase. Option B, 'A delicious meal was prepared by the chef,' fits this structure: 'meal' is the subject receiving the action 'was prepared,' and the agent 'chef' is in a 'by' phrase.

'Eerie' means strange and frightening. 'Macabre' means disturbing and horrifying because of involvement with or depiction of death and injury. 'Sinister' means giving the impression that something harmful or evil is happening or will happen. Given the description of 'dusty furniture and cobweb-filled corners' and 'eerie feeling,' 'sinister' best captures the ominous and unsettling atmosphere.

The passage states that digital citizenship 'encompasses understanding one's rights and responsibilities online, practicing safe and legal internet behavior, and engaging in constructive digital interactions.' Therefore, understanding online rights and responsibilities is a key aspect.

Ephemeral means lasting for a very short time. 'Transient' is a direct synonym, meaning lasting only for a short time; impermanent. Both words convey the idea of brief existence.

A colon is used to introduce a list, an explanation, or an elaboration when the introductory clause can stand alone as a complete sentence. In option B, 'She brought several items to the picnic' is an independent clause, and the colon correctly introduces the list of items.

'Exhaustive' means examining, including, or considering all elements or aspects; fully comprehensive. This fits the description of 'leaving no stone unturned' and aiming for 'accuracy,' implying a thorough and complete analysis.

The passage states that a circular economy proposes a shift 'to one that keeps resources in use for as long as possible.' This is the core principle that underlies all its other aspects like durability, reuse, and recycling.