Re: Those who actively resist the impulse to expatiate on self-i
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23 Dec 2021, 08:16
It is a two answer Sentence-Equivalence question from Manhattan GRE, and has two answers. Original post's correct answers need revision.
Official explanation MGRE:
To expatiate on a topic is to “talk or write at great length on a topic.” In this case, those who “resist the temptation to expatiate on self-indulgent topics” are actually quashing their desire to talk about themselves. “Overcorrecting” in this manner would be to go to the opposite extreme, likely talking little or not at all. Thus, these people might be perceived as overly quiet or reserved in a negative way. We’ll use “overly reserved” as our filler.
(A) Loquacious means “talkative.” This is the opposite of what we want.
(B) CORRECT. Detached, when used to describe a person, means “disinterested, unconcerned” in a negative way. This is a good match.
(C) Communicative means “inclined to talk or communicate.” This is the opposite of what we want.
(D) CORRECT. Aloof means “disinterested,” and generally in a negative, almost arrogant manner. This is another good fit.
(E) Irreverent means “not showing respect.” This does not match our filler.
(F) Reprehensible means “detestable” or “blameworthy.” It’s a negative word either way, but it doesn’t mean “overly reserved.”
Notice that (A) and (C) make a synonym pair, but with the opposite meaning of what we’re looking for.