HESI A2
HESI A2 Vocabulary 2023
1. Select the meaning of the word 'tenuous' in the sentence: 'Patients in this wing often have a tenuous hold on reality.'
- A. Judicious
- B. Deleted
- C. Frantic
- D. Fragile
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In this context, the word 'tenuous' is used to describe a weak or delicate hold on reality. 'Fragile' is the correct choice as it conveys the idea of something being easily broken or damaged, which aligns with the meaning of 'tenuous' in the sentence. Choice A, 'Judicious,' means having good judgment, which is unrelated to the context. Choice B, 'Deleted,' means removed or erased, which is not synonymous with 'tenuous.' Choice C, 'Frantic,' means panicked or desperate, which does not capture the delicate or weak nature implied by 'tenuous.'
2. What is tepid bathwater?
- A. Water that is salty
- B. Water that is lukewarm
- C. Water that is icy
- D. Water that is half-full
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Tepid bathwater refers to water that is neither too hot nor too cold, but rather lukewarm in temperature. It is a comfortable and soothing temperature for bathing or soaking. Choice A is incorrect because tepid water is not salty. Choice C is incorrect because icy water is cold, not tepid. Choice D is incorrect as half-full refers to the quantity of water, not its temperature.
3. What is the meaning of superfluous?
- A. Maximum
- B. Excessive
- C. Insipid
- D. Soggy
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Superfluous means unnecessary or more than what is needed. It refers to something that is excessive or redundant. Choice B, "Excessive," is the correct synonym for superfluous. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. "Maximum" (Choice A) means the greatest possible amount, "Insipid" (Choice C) means lacking flavor or interest, and "Soggy" (Choice D) means soaked with liquid or water.
4. Which word describes a screen or filter?
- A. Permeable
- B. Incendiary
- C. Exuding
- D. Resilient
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The word 'permeable' refers to a material or surface that allows liquids, gases, or substances to pass through it, while screening or filtering out impurities. This makes it an appropriate descriptor for a screen or filter, which function by allowing certain elements to pass through while retaining others. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect: 'Incendiary' means causing fires, 'Exuding' means giving off or releasing, and 'Resilient' means able to withstand or recover from difficult conditions.
5. What is the meaning of venal?
- A. Vibrant
- B. Savage
- C. Greedy
- D. Fortunate
Correct answer: C
Rationale: The word 'venal' means susceptible to corruption, especially by bribery. It is often used to describe individuals who are willing to do dishonest or immoral acts in exchange for money or favors. Therefore, the most appropriate synonym for 'venal' among the given choices is 'greedy.' 'Vibrant' means full of energy and life, 'savage' refers to fierce or violent behavior, and 'fortunate' means having good luck or being favored by fortune, none of which capture the meaning of 'venal.'
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