what does the word trepidation mean

HESI A2

Vocabulary for HESI A2

1. What does the word Trepidation mean?

A. Fear
B. Misgivings
C. Confidence
D. Doubt

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Misgivings'. Trepidation is defined as a feeling of fear or anxiety about something that may happen. Choice A ('Fear') is too broad and does not capture the specific sense of unease that trepidation conveys. Choice C ('Confidence') is the opposite of what trepidation represents. Choice D ('Doubt') is related to uncertainty but does not fully encapsulate the sense of fear and anxiety associated with trepidation.

2. 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.'

3. _ having trouble with _ new dog.

A. There, their
B. Their, there
C. They’re, their
D. Their, they’re

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In this sentence, the correct choices are 'They’re' and 'their.' 'They’re' is a contraction of 'they are,' which fits the context of the sentence as it suggests ownership of the dog. 'Their' is a possessive pronoun showing ownership. Choice A is incorrect as 'there' refers to a place and doesn't make sense in this context. Choice B is incorrect as the possessive pronoun 'their' should come before the noun 'dog'. Choice D is incorrect as 'they’re' should be used before the verb 'having trouble' to form a contraction for 'they are'.

4. What is the best description of aseptic?

A. Infected
B. Purified
C. Contaminated
D. Sterilized

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Purified.' Aseptic means free from contamination or purified. In medical and scientific contexts, aseptic techniques are used to prevent contamination and maintain sterility in environments or procedures. Choice A, 'Infected,' is incorrect as aseptic refers to being free from contamination, not being infected. Choice C, 'Contaminated,' is incorrect as aseptic means the opposite of contaminated. Choice D, 'Sterilized,' is incorrect as aseptic focuses on the absence of contamination rather than the process of sterilization.

5. When a body part has atrophied, it has ____?

A. Enlarged
B. Withered
C. Swollen
D. Damaged

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Withered.' When a body part atrophies, it shrinks or wastes away. This term is associated with a decrease in muscle mass or tissue due to various reasons like lack of use or injury. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because atrophy does not refer to enlargement, swelling, or damage, but rather to wasting away or shrinking.