Reading Comprehension Skills Flashcards

A passage states: 'The mayor announced that the new recycling program would begin in the fall, pending budget approval.' What does 'pending' mean in this context?

Answer: Subject to

'Pending' means 'subject to' or 'awaiting,' so the program start depends on budget approval.

You read: 'Unlike her colleagues, Maria preferred written reports to verbal presentations.' What contrast is being made?

Answer: Maria's preference differed from her colleagues'

The word 'unlike' signals that Maria's preference (written) contrasts with her colleagues' preference (verbal).

A sign reads: 'Authorized Personnel Only — Violators Will Be Prosecuted.' Who is permitted to enter?

Answer: Only people with official permission

'Authorized personnel' means only individuals who have been officially granted permission may enter.

A passage says: 'The committee tabled the motion until the next meeting.' In American English, what did the committee do?

Answer: Postponed discussion of the motion

In American English, 'to table' a motion means to postpone or delay it, not to bring it up for discussion.

You read: 'The scientist's findings were corroborated by three independent studies.' What does 'corroborated' mean?

Answer: Supported or confirmed

'Corroborated' means supported or confirmed by additional evidence.

A notice states: 'Refunds will be issued within 5-7 business days of receiving your returned item.' When does the refund timeline begin?

Answer: When the item is received

The notice says 'of receiving your returned item,' so the countdown starts when the item arrives back.

A paragraph reads: 'Although the initial cost is high, solar panels typically pay for themselves within ten years.' What is the author's overall point?

Answer: Solar panels are a worthwhile long-term investment

The word 'although' concedes the high cost but pivots to the long-term benefit, indicating the panels are worthwhile.