Applied Concepts Flashcards

A student reads the sentence: 'The committee, despite its reservations, approved the budget.' Which grammatical structure is underlined by the phrase 'despite its reservations'?

Answer: Concessive clause element

'Despite its reservations' functions as a concessive element, acknowledging a contrasting condition before the main clause.

In a workplace memo, which tone is most appropriate when requesting employees to update their emergency contact information?

Answer: Formal yet approachable

Workplace memos about administrative matters should be formal yet approachable to ensure compliance without creating anxiety.

A job applicant writes: 'I am a good team player and I work good under pressure.' What error must be corrected?

Answer: 'Good' should be 'well' in the second clause

'Work well' is correct because 'well' is an adverb modifying the verb 'work,' while 'good' is an adjective.

Which reading strategy is most effective when skimming a lengthy report to locate a specific statistic?

Answer: Focusing on topic sentences and headings, then scanning for numbers

Skimming headings and topic sentences directs you to the relevant section, where you then scan for numerical data.

The prefix 'sub-' in the word 'subordinate' conveys which meaning?

Answer: Under or lower in rank

The Latin prefix 'sub-' means 'under' or 'below,' giving 'subordinate' the meaning of lower in rank or importance.

A customer service email begins: 'Per your inquiry, please be advised of the following.' This opening is best described as:

Answer: Overly bureaucratic and wordy

Phrases like 'per your inquiry' and 'please be advised' are bureaucratic filler that delays the actual message.

When writing a persuasive paragraph, where should the strongest supporting evidence typically be placed?

Answer: At the end of the paragraph for lasting impact

Placing the strongest evidence last leverages the 'recency effect,' leaving readers with the most compelling point fresh in mind.