ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery)Word Knowledge (WK)Easy
A historian noted that the ancient civilization thrived due to its <b>benign</b> climate, which allowed for abundant agriculture.
- Aharsh
- Bunpredictable
- Cfavorable
- Dtropical
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. favorable
The word 'benign' means gentle, kind, or favorable. In the context of climate, a benign climate is one that is mild and conducive to growth, making 'favorable' the best synonym.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 'Harsh' is an antonym, meaning severe or unpleasant.
- B. 'Unpredictable' describes something that cannot be foreseen, which is not the primary meaning of benign.
- D. 'Tropical' describes a type of climate, but not necessarily its quality (favorable or unfavorable).
Benign
Gentle; kindly. (of a disease) not harmful in effect; not malignant.
- Often used to describe weather, tumors, or dispositions.
- Implies a lack of severity or danger.
- Can also mean favorable or beneficial.
Memory trick: Benign is like a 'benny' (benefit) – it's good and gentle.