GRE General TestVerbal ReasoningEasy
Despite a concerted effort to mitigate its effects, the invasive species continued to ______ the native ecosystem, causing irreversible damage to biodiversity.
- Adecimate
- Bameliorate
- Cfortify
- Dbolster
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. decimate
The sentence indicates that the invasive species caused 'irreversible damage to biodiversity,' implying a destructive action. 'Decimate' means to severely reduce or destroy, which fits this context. The word 'despite' signals a contrast, meaning the effort to mitigate was unsuccessful.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. To ameliorate means to make something better, which is the opposite of the intended meaning.
- C. To fortify means to strengthen, which is contrary to the context of damage.
- D. To bolster means to support or strengthen, which is contrary to the context of damage.
Antonyms in Context
Understanding how antonyms function within a sentence, especially when contrast words like 'despite' or 'although' are present, is crucial for selecting the correct word.
- Look for contrast indicators (e.g., despite, although, however).
- Identify the core meaning of the surrounding text.
- Choose a word that provides the opposite meaning of what was expected or attempted.
Memory trick: Opposite ideas often hide near contrast words.