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. Which word names a medicine whose purpose is to induce vomiting?

A. Laxative
B. Emetic
C. Vaccine
D. Analgesic

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'Emetic.' An emetic is a medication specifically designed to induce vomiting. This helps the body expel toxic substances or clear the stomach. Choice A, 'Laxative,' aids in relieving constipation by promoting bowel movements, not inducing vomiting. Choice C, 'Vaccine,' is a substance used to stimulate the immune system against specific diseases, not to induce vomiting. Choice D, 'Analgesic,' refers to a medication used to relieve pain, not to induce vomiting. Therefore, options A, C, and D are incorrect in the context of inducing vomiting.

3. Choose the meaning of the word 'winnowed' in the following sentence: 'One by one, the applicants were winnowed out of the group.'

A. Escorted
B. Separated
C. Elevated
D. Summoned

Correct answer: B

Rationale: In this context, the word 'winnowed' means to separate or eliminate less desirable individuals from a larger group, indicating that the applicants were being sifted out or singled out in this process. Therefore, the most appropriate meaning among the choices provided is 'separated.' 'Escorted' (Choice A) implies being accompanied or guided, which is not the intended meaning. 'Elevated' (Choice C) means raised or lifted, which does not fit the context. 'Summoned' (Choice D) suggests being called or requested to attend, which is also not the correct meaning in this context.

4. Which word describes a screen or filter?

A. Permeable
B. Incendiary
C. Exuding
D. Resilient

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The word 'permeable' refers to a material or surface that allows liquids, gases, or substances to pass through it, while screening or filtering out impurities. This makes it an appropriate descriptor for a screen or filter, which function by allowing certain elements to pass through while retaining others. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect: 'Incendiary' means causing fires, 'Exuding' means giving off or releasing, and 'Resilient' means able to withstand or recover from difficult conditions.

5. Which term is descriptive of a small child just learning to walk?

A. Obese
B. Toddler
C. Geriatric
D. Hale

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'B: Toddler.' A toddler is a young child typically between the ages of one and three who is just learning to walk. 'Obese' (choice A) refers to excess body fat, 'Geriatric' (choice C) pertains to elderly individuals, and 'Hale' (choice D) means strong and healthy, none of which are descriptive of a small child learning to walk.