why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant

HESI A2

Reading Comprehension HESI A2

1. Why is an unwanted gift called a white elephant?

A. It is a good gift to give at the party
B. Gifts are never unwanted
C. Siam's rulers punished with the gift
D. It is rare to get an unwanted gift

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The term 'white elephant' originated from the practice of the kings of Siam (now Thailand) giving rare and sacred white elephants as gifts. These white elephants were highly prestigious but also very expensive to maintain, causing financial burdens on the recipients. The kings of Siam used white elephants as a punishment for those who displeased them. The recipients were required to care for the white elephant in a grand style, resulting in financial liabilities that could make them impoverished. Over time, the term 'white elephant' evolved to describe any valuable item that is burdensome or unwanted. Therefore, choice C is correct. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately explain the origin and meaning of the term 'white elephant' in the context of unwanted gifts.

2. Which is the best title for the passage about Hypertension?

A. How to Manage Hypertension Successfully
B. Doctors Discover the Hidden Dangers of Hypertension
C. Doctors Work to Understand the Causes of Hypertension
D. Causes, Symptoms, Complications, and Management of Hypertension

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The best title for the passage about Hypertension is 'Causes, Symptoms, Complications, and Management of Hypertension.' This title accurately reflects the content of the passage, which provides information about the causes, symptoms, complications, and management of hypertension. It covers a broad spectrum of information presented in the passage, making it the most comprehensive and suitable title. Choice A, 'How to Manage Hypertension Successfully,' is too narrow as it focuses solely on management without encompassing the other crucial aspects like causes and symptoms. Choice B, 'Doctors Discover the Hidden Dangers of Hypertension,' is misleading as the passage does not focus on any recent discoveries but rather provides general information about hypertension. Choice C, 'Doctors Work to Understand the Causes of Hypertension,' is also inaccurate as the passage mainly discusses causes, symptoms, complications, and management, rather than doctors' ongoing research efforts.

3. What is the meaning of the word unprocessed as used in the first paragraph about Super Foods?

A. Natural and untreated
B. Made of vegetable matter
C. Home grown
D. Uncirculated or undigested

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this context, "unprocessed" refers to foods that are in their natural state and have not been altered or treated in any way. This aligns with the idea of whole foods being free from additives and preservatives, making A the most accurate choice.

4. Throughout this passage the word suit means?

A. A set of clothing to be worn together
B. To be convenient or right for
C. To request or appeal persistently
D. One of the four categories in a deck of cards.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In the passage, the word 'suit' is used in the context of card games, specifically in relation to playing cards of the same category. It refers to being convenient or right for a particular purpose in the game of Bridge. The other choices are incorrect because 'suit' in this passage does not refer to a set of clothing (option A), persistent requesting (option C), or one of the four categories in a deck of cards (option D). The passage clearly explains how the term 'suit' is used in the context of playing cards in the game of Bridge.

5. As used in the last sentence of this paragraph, the term 'concomitant' means?

A. Accompanying
B. Quiet
C. Frustrated
D. Prefer low-pitched tones

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the provided extract, the term 'concomitant' is used to describe problems associated with alcohol abuse, such as the individual becoming alcoholic, contribution to highway deaths by drunken drivers, and spousal and child abuse. Therefore, in this context, 'concomitant' means accompanying, or going along with something else. The other choices of 'Quiet,' 'Frustrated,' and 'Prefer low-pitched tones' do not align with the meaning of 'concomitant' as used in the paragraph.