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. Select the meaning of the word 'untoward' in the sentence: 'His untoward actions during the admission process created a problem for the nurse.'

A. Violent
B. Casual
C. Unseemly
D. Capricious

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Unseemly.' In this context, 'untoward' refers to actions that are improper or inappropriate. Choice A, 'Violent,' does not accurately reflect the meaning of 'untoward' in the context of the sentence. Choice B, 'Casual,' is unrelated to the negative connotation of 'untoward.' Choice D, 'Capricious,' suggests unpredictability rather than the negative behavior implied by 'untoward.' Therefore, 'Unseemly' is the most appropriate meaning in this context.

3. Choose the meaning of the word rationale in the following sentence: "Step-by-step, the doctor explained the rationale for the treatment."

A. Reasoning
B. Prescription
C. Procedure
D. Necessity

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Question: In this context, the word 'rationale' refers to the underlying reasoning or justification for the treatment being explained step-by-step by the doctor. It pertains to the logical basis or thought process behind the chosen course of action. 'Prescription' (Choice B), 'Procedure' (Choice C), and 'Necessity' (Choice D) do not accurately capture the meaning of 'rationale' in the sentence provided.

4. A paroxysm is a sudden spasm. Another word for this might be

A. Symptom
B. Convulsion
C. Efficacy
D. Embolism

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'Convulsion.' A paroxysm and a convulsion both refer to sudden, involuntary spasms. This makes 'Convulsion' the most suitable synonym. 'Symptom' (Choice A) refers to an indication of a condition but not a spasm. 'Efficacy' (Choice C) refers to the ability to produce a desired or intended result, unrelated to spasms. 'Embolism' (Choice D) refers to an obstruction in a blood vessel, not a sudden spasm.

5. The development of the disease was INSIDIOUS.

A. Momentous
B. Sudden
C. Innocuous
D. Gradual

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The term 'insidious' typically describes something that occurs gradually and subtly, often without being noticed until it has become more serious or established. Therefore, the development of the disease being insidious suggests that it was gradual, aligning best with the meaning of the word in this context. Choice A, 'momentous,' means significant or important, which is opposite in meaning to insidious. Choice B, 'sudden,' indicates something happening quickly and unexpectedly, contrary to the gradual nature of an insidious development. Choice C, 'innocuous,' means harmless or not likely to cause harm, which does not accurately reflect the negative and harmful connotation associated with an insidious disease development.