which word means to think about something before making a decision

HESI A2

Vocabulary HESI A2 Practice Test

1. Which word means TO THINK ABOUT SOMETHING BEFORE MAKING A DECISION?

A. Imply
B. Transgress
C. Allay
D. Ruminate

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The word 'ruminate' means to think deeply about something before making a decision. It specifically implies reflecting or pondering carefully on a matter, indicating a thoughtful consideration process. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. 'Imply' means to suggest indirectly, 'transgress' means to go beyond limits or boundaries, and 'allay' means to diminish or put to rest feelings of fear or suspicion. These words do not convey the concept of thoughtful contemplation before making a decision.

2. What is the best meaning of Pernicious?

A. Harmless
B. Destructive
C. Helpful
D. Harmful

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'Destructive.' Pernicious is an adjective that describes something that is extremely harmful or destructive. Choice A, 'Harmless,' is the opposite of pernicious. Choice C, 'Helpful,' is a positive term and does not align with the meaning of pernicious. Choice D, 'Harmful,' is a similar term to pernicious but lacks the emphasis on the severe and damaging nature of the word.

3. If a theory is obsolete, what is true of it?

A. Up to date
B. Outdated
C. Innovative
D. Scientific

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Outdated.' When something is described as 'obsolete,' it means that it is outdated or no longer in use. Therefore, an obsolete theory is no longer current or relevant. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because an obsolete theory is not considered up to date, innovative, or necessarily scientific; it is outdated and no longer relevant in its field.

4. What is the grammatical category of the term 'biologists' in the sentence 'Most wildlife biologists disapprove of crossbreeding wolves and dogs'?

A. Adjective
B. Noun
C. Verb
D. Conjunction

Correct answer: B

Rationale: 'Biologists' is a noun in the sentence, referring to a group of people who study wildlife and their behaviors. In this context, 'biologists' is not describing or modifying another noun, making it a noun itself. Therefore, options A, C, and D are incorrect.

5. What is another word for CONCAVE?

A. Sunburned
B. Convex
C. Puffed out
D. Sunken

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'D: Sunken.' Concave refers to a surface or shape that curves inward, while 'sunken' is the closest synonym, also indicating something that is depressed or hollowed inward. Choice 'B: Convex' is incorrect as it is the opposite of concave, representing a shape that bulges outward. Choices 'A: Sunburned' and 'C: Puffed out' do not relate to the concept of concave shapes.