GRE General TestVerbal ReasoningMedium
A recent anthropological theory posits that early human societies, far from being purely hierarchical, were often characterized by a more ______ social structure, with evidence suggesting frequent shifts in leadership and communal decision-making processes.
- Afluid
- Brigid
- Cstatic
- Dstratified
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. fluid
The sentence states that early human societies were 'far from being purely hierarchical,' implying a contrast to a fixed, top-down structure. The evidence given is 'frequent shifts in leadership and communal decision-making processes,' which suggests adaptability and change. 'Fluid' means subject to change or alteration, which accurately describes a social structure with frequent shifts in leadership.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Rigid means unable to bend or be changed, which is the opposite of 'frequent shifts'.
- C. Static means lacking in movement, action, or change, which is the opposite of 'frequent shifts'.
- D. Stratified means arranged in layers or classes, which is consistent with a hierarchical structure, not a contrast to it.
Direct Contrast with Evidence
This concept tests the ability to identify a word that directly contrasts an initial statement, supported by specific evidence provided in the sentence.
- Look for phrases signaling contrast (e.g., 'far from being', 'not X but Y').
- Identify the characteristics of the contrasting idea.
- Match the chosen word to the provided evidence that supports this contrasting idea.
Memory trick: If it's not fixed, it's flowing.