select the meaning of the underlined word in the following sentence it disintegrates in the mouth within seconds after placement on the tongue allowin

HESI A2

HESI A2 Vocabulary Quiz

1. Choose the meaning of the word 'disintegrates' in the following sentence: 'It disintegrates in the mouth within seconds after placement on the tongue, allowing its contents to be swallowed with or without water.'

A. Evaporates
B. Fizzes
C. Deviates
D. Fragments

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The word 'disintegrates' means to break apart into smaller parts or fragments. In the sentence, it describes the process of the substance breaking down in the mouth. Therefore, the most appropriate meaning is 'Fragments.' 'Evaporates' means to turn into vapor, 'Fizzes' refers to the production of bubbles, and 'Deviates' means to depart from the norm, making them incorrect choices in the context of the sentence.

2. What is the meaning of the word 'maladroit' in the sentence: 'Those who are maladroit should not become surgeons'?

A. Clumsy
B. Romantic
C. Untrained
D. Self-conscious

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Clumsy.' In this context, 'maladroit' means lacking skill or coordination, especially in tasks requiring dexterity and precision. The statement suggests that individuals who are clumsy or awkward should avoid pursuing a career as surgeons. Choice B, 'Romantic,' is incorrect as it does not align with the context provided. Choice C, 'Untrained,' does not capture the essence of clumsiness implied by 'maladroit.' Choice D, 'Self-conscious,' is also incorrect as it does not reflect the intended meaning of lacking skill or coordination.

3. What does 'Compensatory' mean?

A. Harmful
B. Offsetting or making up for something
C. Adding unnecessary work
D. Hindering

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The term 'Compensatory' means offsetting or making up for something. In this context, it refers to the act of providing something in order to make up for a deficiency or loss. It is not related to being harmful, hindering, or adding unnecessary work. 'Harmful' (Choice A), 'Adding unnecessary work' (Choice C), and 'Hindering' (Choice D) are incorrect as they do not align with the meaning of 'Compensatory.'

4. Precipitous is best defined as being ____?

A. Slow
B. Swift
C. Gradual
D. Delayed

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Swift.' Precipitous is used to describe something that is steep, sheer, or done suddenly and without careful consideration. For example, a precipitous drop in the stock market. 'Slow' (Choice A), 'Gradual' (Choice C), and 'Delayed' (Choice D) do not align with the meaning of precipitous and are therefore incorrect.

5. What does Distended mean?

A. Shrunken
B. Enlarged or expanded from pressure
C. Collapsed
D. Constricted

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Distended means enlarged or expanded from pressure. The term 'shrunken' (Choice A) means reduced in size, 'collapsed' (Choice C) means fallen in or disintegrated, and 'constricted' (Choice D) means narrowed or tightened. Therefore, the correct answer is B.