GRE Prep Club Team Member
Joined: 20 Feb 2017
Posts: 2932
Given Kudos: 1259
GPA: 3.39
Although critics often assume that avant-garde films overwhelm
[#permalink]
05 Jun 2026, 10:16
Explanation
The sentence sets up a contrast using the word "Although." It contrasts what critics assume about avant-garde films ("sensory excess" and "spectacle") with the reality of the works that actually endure successfully.
The clue at the end of the sentence states that these enduring works rely on "small, carefully controlled gestures." Therefore, the blank needs a word that means the opposite of "excess" and "spectacle," matching the idea of being small, subtle, or understated.
Minimal means of a minimum amount, quantity, or degree; negligible or understated.
Trifling means of little importance, small, or insignificant. In this context, "trifling effects" refers to effects that are subtle, minute, or understated rather than overwhelming.
Together, these two words create two sentences that are closest in meaning and fit the contrast perfectly.
C. marked and D. conspicuous mean distinct, noticeable, or prominent. This would align more with "spectacle" rather than contrasting it.
E. intriguing means fascinating, which doesn't directly contrast with "sensory excess" or match "small, carefully controlled gestures."
F. deleterious means harmful or damaging, which does not fit the context of artistic subtlety.
Answer: A,B