In each sentence, choose the correct word from the pair of confusing words…
2023
In each sentence, choose the correct word from the pair of confusing words marked [A] and [B]. Then select the option that gives the correct sequence of choices for sentences (i), (ii) and (iii).
i. She demonstrated immanent [A] / imminent [B] good sense in her dress and behaviour.
ii. The thunder was heard immediately [A] / imminently [B] after they saw lightning.
iii. Her nervousness was obvious, with her forehead damp [A] / dank [B] with perspiration.
- A.
ABA
- B.
BBA
- C.
AAA
- D.
BBB
Attempted by 7 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
This is a 'confusing words' exercise: pick the word whose meaning fits each sentence.
(i) immanent vs imminent. 'Immanent' means inherent, innate or existing within; 'imminent' means about to happen. 'Good sense' that someone naturally possesses is inherent, so the correct word is immanent [A]. ('Imminent good sense' would mean good sense that is about to happen, which is meaningless.)
(ii) immediately vs imminently. 'Immediately' means at once / without delay; 'imminently' means in a manner about to happen. Thunder follows lightning at once, so the correct word is immediately [A]. ('Imminently' cannot describe how soon something 'was heard'.)
(iii) damp vs dank. 'Damp' means slightly wet or moist (a neutral word used for skin, hair, walls or weather); 'dank' means unpleasantly damp, cold and musty (used for cellars, caves and dungeons). A forehead wet with perspiration is damp [A], not dank.
So the correct sequence is A, A, A = AAA, which is option (3) 'AAA'.