Re: A $\qquad$ weekend in the country is precisely what is required after
[#permalink]
02 Mar 2025, 13:51
OFFICIAL EXPLANATION
The correct answer is $\(\mathbf{C}\)$.
This sentence establishes a contrast between the weekend and the arduous week that precedes it. So the correct answer should be the opposite of "arduous," which means "strenuous." Choice C, "palliative," means "soothing," so it is the best answer. Choice A, "strenuous," has the same meaning as "arduous," so it is the wrong answer. Choice B, "picturesque," means "pretty," and though this may make literal sense in context, it fails to contrast the word "arduous" effectively. Choice D, "reminiscent," means "similar to," so it does not make sense. Choice E, "parsimonious," means "frugal," but this would only be appropriate if the speaker were complaining about how expensive the preceding week had been.