PSAT Writing and Language Question 93: Answer and Explanation

Question: 93

• A. NO CHANGE
• B. stupid idiocy
• C. not verified
• D. downright wrong

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

C

Vocabulary changes in the answer choices, so this question tests precision of word choice. Look for a phrase consistent in tone with the paragraph. The paragraph discusses medical science, and the first part of the sentence says Medical historians now know that the disease was spread by mosquitoes. The word but indicates a contrast between now and the past, which suggests that the idea was "not proven" until much later. Eliminate (A) because while pretty shady is somewhat similar to "not proven," it is too casual and thus not consistent with the tone of the passage. Eliminate (B) because stupid idiocy does not match with "not proven" and is also not consistent in tone with the paragraph. Keep (C) because not verified matches with "not proven." Eliminate (D) because downright wrong incorrectly changes the meaning of the sentence, suggesting that the idea was incorrect until later, whereas it merely wasn't proven until later. The correct answer is (C).