Although the artist's early works were characterized by their vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes, his later period saw a distinct shift towards a more ______ palette and a ______, almost ethereal quality, reflecting a deeper introspection. Select the two words that, when used to complete the sentence, fit the meaning of the sentence as a whole and produce completed sentences that are alike in meaning.
- Aluminous ... vigorous
- Bgaudy ... robust
- Cbright ... forceful
- Dsomber ... delicate
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. somber ... delicate
The sentence indicates a 'distinct shift' from 'vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes' in early works to something different in the later period, described as 'a deeper introspection' and 'ethereal quality.' This suggests a move away from vibrancy and boldness. For the first blank, 'somber' (dark, gloomy) contrasts with 'vibrant colors.' For the second blank, 'delicate' contrasts with 'bold brushstrokes' and aligns with 'ethereal quality' and 'introspection.' Both 'somber' and 'delicate' fit the shift towards a more subdued and introspective style. Option B and D provide words that are either similar to the early period or don't fit the 'ethereal' quality. Option C 'gaudy' is garish, not introspective, and 'robust' is bold, not ethereal.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 'Luminous' is bright, contradicting the shift away from vibrancy. 'Vigorous' is active, not ethereal.
- B. 'Gaudy' means showy and tasteless, not reflective of introspection. 'Robust' means strong, not delicate or ethereal.
- C. 'Bright' is similar to 'vibrant,' not a shift away. 'Forceful' is akin to 'bold,' not ethereal.
Double Blank Strategy
A Text Completion strategy where both blanks must be filled by words that logically complete the sentence, often requiring an understanding of how the two chosen words relate to each other and the overall context.
- Analyze each blank separately first, then together.
- Look for relationships between the blanks (e.g., cause/effect, contrast, synonym).
- Ensure both words in the chosen option fit the sentence's meaning and tone.
Memory trick: Two blanks, two clues, make sure both words are true.