CCE CCE Word Usage and Diction Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

Which sentence demonstrates correct use of 'affect' versus 'effect'?

Accepted Answer

The new policy will affect the outcome.

Answer

The new policy will effect the outcome.

Answer

The side effects will affect positively.

Answer

The medication effected her mood.

Question 2

A copyeditor sees 'she inferred that he meant to insult her' in a context where the speaker is the one making the suggestion. What is the issue?

Accepted Answer

'Inferred' should be 'implied'; the speaker implies, the listener infers.

Answer

'Inferred' is correct when the subject draws a conclusion.

Answer

Both 'imply' and 'infer' can be used interchangeably by the speaker.

Answer

There is no issue; 'inferred' is standard usage here.

Question 3

Which is the correct use of 'disinterested' in an editorial context?

Accepted Answer

'Disinterested' means impartial or unbiased, not the same as 'uninterested.'

Answer

'Disinterested' means lacking interest or bored.

Answer

'Disinterested' and 'uninterested' are exact synonyms.

Answer

'Disinterested' is an archaic term that should be avoided.

Question 4

A manuscript reads 'she was fulsome in her praise.' The author intends to say the praise was lavish and generous. What should the copyeditor note?

Accepted Answer

Flag it: 'fulsome' traditionally means excessive to the point of being insincere or offensive, not simply generous.

Answer

Accept it: 'fulsome' means abundant and generous in modern usage.

Answer

Delete 'fulsome' and replace with 'full.'

Answer

Mark it as a spelling error.

Question 5

Which sentence correctly uses 'continual' versus 'continuous'?

Accepted Answer

The machine ran continuously for 48 hours without stopping.

Answer

The machine ran continually for 48 hours without stopping.

Answer

The interruptions were continuous throughout the meeting.

Answer

Continuous rain fell every few hours throughout the week.

Question 6

A copyeditor sees 'the suspect was comprised of three individuals.' What is the error?

Accepted Answer

'Comprised of' is nonstandard; write 'composed of' or 'consisting of.'

Answer

There is no error; 'comprised of' is standard in legal writing.

Answer

'Was comprised' should be 'is comprised' for present tense.

Answer

Replace 'comprised' with 'compounded.'