PSAT Reading Question 345: Answer and Explanation

Question: 345

As used in line 38, "predate" most nearly means

• A. obscure.
• B. vilify.
• C. precede.
• D. span.

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

(C) The surrounding context makes clear that the author is referring to "age-old" ideas that have been around for "several thousand years," making "precede" correct. The correct response is not "obscure," since "predate" refers to time, not to confusion. It is not "vilify" because there is no indication of belittling or insulting something. Although "span" is associated with time, it signifies a duration of time rather than a specific time in the past.