HESI A2 Vocabulary Exams — HESI A2 Entrance Exam Vocabulary
1. Which word describes a dog that behaves well and listens to its owners?
Answer: D
Tractable describes a dog that behaves well and listens to its owners.
A dog that is tractable is easily managed or controlled, demonstrating good behavior and attentiveness to its owner's commands.
A) Rotund
Rotund refers to something that is round or plump. This term does not relate to behavior or obedience in dogs, making it an incorrect choice in this context.
B) Reluctant
Reluctant describes a state of being unwilling or hesitant. A dog that is reluctant would not listen or behave well, thus this option does not fit the description needed for a well-behaved dog.
C) Robust
Robust means strong and healthy. While a robust dog may be physically fit, this term does not address the behavioral aspect of a dog listening to its owner, making it an unsuitable choice.
D) Tractable
Tractable accurately describes a dog that is obedient and easy to control. This term specifically highlights the dog's ability to behave well in response to its owner's commands.
Conclusion
Tractable is the only option that directly relates to a dog’s obedience and good behavior. The other options—rotund, reluctant, and robust—do not convey the same meaning and fail to describe a dog that listens well to its owner. Thus, tractable is the definitive answer to the question.
Answer: B
The word "pivotal" means critical in this context.
In the sentence, the scientist's discovery is described as "pivotal," indicating that it was critical to changing the course of research. This suggests that the discovery played a significant role and was essential to the advancement of knowledge in that field.
A) Insignificant
This option is incorrect because "insignificant" implies that something is unimportant or trivial. In contrast, the use of "pivotal" suggests that the discovery had a major impact, making it the opposite of insignificant.
B) Critical
This option is correct as "pivotal" denotes something that is of crucial importance. The sentence indicates that the discovery was a turning point in research, which aligns with the definition of "critical."
C) Expected
This option is incorrect because "expected" suggests something that was anticipated or predictable. A "pivotal" discovery, by definition, is one that is surprising and transformative, not something that was foreseen.
D) Delayed
This option is incorrect as "delayed" refers to something that has been postponed or held up. The term "pivotal" does not imply any sense of timing but rather emphasizes the importance of the discovery itself.
Conclusion
The term "pivotal" clearly denotes critical importance, making option B the only accurate choice in this context. All other options fail to capture the essence of what a "pivotal" discovery entails, which is its significant role in altering the course of research.
3. What does the word ENVIRONMENT describe?
Answer: C
The word ENVIRONMENT describes the elements inside and outside of a person.
The term "ENVIRONMENT" encompasses both internal and external elements that influence an individual. This includes physical surroundings, social conditions, and psychological factors that collectively shape a person's experiences and interactions.
A) the major ideas of the quality of life
This option incorrectly defines "ENVIRONMENT" as focusing solely on quality of life ideas. While quality of life can be influenced by environmental factors, the term itself is broader and involves various elements beyond just major ideas.
B) the assistance found outside the family
This choice misrepresents "ENVIRONMENT" by limiting it to support structures outside the family. The concept of environment is not confined to assistance but includes a wide array of influences, both internal and external, that affect an individual.
C) the elements inside and outside of a person
This option accurately captures the essence of "ENVIRONMENT." It includes all factors that influence an individual, such as social, physical, and emotional elements, making it the most comprehensive and correct definition.
D) the positive and negative aspects of a home
While this option touches on a specific aspect of the environment related to home life, it is too narrow. The term "ENVIRONMENT" encompasses much more than just the home, including external societal, natural, and psychological factors.
Conclusion
Option C is definitively correct as it captures the full scope of what "ENVIRONMENT" entails, including both internal and external influences on an individual. The other options fail to encompass the breadth of the term, focusing on limited aspects that do not fully represent its meaning.
4. Docile is best defined as being __________.
Answer: D
Docile is best defined as being compliant.
The term "docile" refers to someone who is willing to accept control or instruction; therefore, it is best defined as being compliant.
A) defiant
Defiant describes a person who openly resists or challenges authority, which is the opposite of being docile. This choice is incorrect as it does not align with the meaning of a person who is submissive or eager to follow instructions.
B) disobedient
Disobedient refers to someone who does not follow rules or orders, further contrasting the meaning of docile. A docile individual is typically obedient and willing to comply, making this option incorrect.
C) firm
Firm suggests a strong or unyielding nature, which contradicts the essence of being docile. A docile person is not characterized by firmness; instead, they are characterized by their willingness to yield or be directed, rendering this option incorrect.
D) compliant
Compliant accurately reflects the definition of docile, as it describes someone who is inclined to follow directives or instructions. This option is correct because it encapsulates the essence of being submissive and agreeable.
Conclusion
The definition of docile as compliant highlights its meaning of obedience and readiness to accept guidance. In contrast, the other options—defiant, disobedient, and firm—represent characteristics that oppose the nature of a docile personality. Therefore, compliant is the only choice that accurately describes what it means to be docile.
5. Select the meaning of the quoted word in the sentence: That is an 'ominous' sign.
Answer: C
C is the correct meaning of 'ominous' in the context provided.
The word 'ominous' in the sentence refers to something that is threatening or indicative of future trouble. This interpretation aligns with the commonly understood meaning of the term in various contexts.
A) A good omen
This option is incorrect because an 'omen' typically refers to a sign that predicts future events; however, 'ominous' specifically connotes a negative or threatening implication, which contradicts the idea of a good omen.
B) Without deceit
This choice is incorrect as 'ominous' does not relate to honesty or deceit. The word is primarily associated with foreboding and suggests a sense of danger or warning, rather than a moral quality of truthfulness.
C) Threatening
This option is correct, as 'ominous' is defined as something that gives the impression that something bad or unpleasant is going to happen. In this context, it effectively conveys a sense of foreboding or danger.
D) Full of thought
This choice is incorrect because 'ominous' does not refer to contemplation or deep thinking. Instead, it describes a feeling or indication of impending doom, which is unrelated to intellectual engagement or thoughtfulness.
Conclusion
The term 'ominous' specifically conveys a sense of threat or forewarning, making option C the only correct interpretation in this context. Options A, B, and D do not align with the inherent meaning of the word, which focuses on the negative implications associated with the sign in question. Thus, option C is definitively the best choice.
Answer: C
The meaning of 'fundamental' in this context is basic.
In the sentence provided, 'fundamental' refers to the essential, foundational differences between the two medications, indicating that these differences are basic to their nature or function.
A) Underlying
While 'underlying' could suggest a deeper, more hidden aspect, it does not directly capture the essence of 'fundamental' as it pertains to the differences in the medications. The term 'underlying' implies a reason or cause rather than a basic characteristic.
B) Appropriate
'Appropriate' refers to something being suitable or proper in a particular situation. This does not align with the meaning of 'fundamental,' which emphasizes the core or basic differences rather than suitability.
C) Basic
'Basic' correctly conveys the idea of being essential or foundational. In the context of the sentence, it accurately reflects the nature of the differences the doctor is trying to explain, making it the most fitting choice.
D) Dosage
'Dosage' relates specifically to the amount of medication to be administered and does not pertain to the conceptual differences between medications. Therefore, it is irrelevant to the meaning of 'fundamental' in this context.
Conclusion
'Fundamental' in the sentence indicates the basic differences between the two medications, making 'C) Basic' the correct choice. All other options fail to encapsulate this essential meaning, either misinterpreting the context or relating to entirely different aspects.
7. What is another word for CONSISTENCY?
Answer: C
Another word for CONSISTENCY is Thickness.
Thickness conveys a sense of uniformity and stability, which aligns closely with the concept of consistency. In various contexts, thickness can refer to the density or solidity of a material, suggesting a stable, unchanging quality.
A) Appearance
Appearance refers to how something looks, which does not necessarily relate to the idea of consistency. While appearance can be consistent, it is not synonymous with the term, as it lacks the connotation of uniformity or stability.
B) Volatility
Volatility indicates unpredictability and rapid change, which is the opposite of consistency. Consistency implies steadiness and reliability, making volatility an incorrect choice in this context.
C) Thickness
Thickness is an appropriate synonym for consistency as it suggests uniformity and steadiness in a physical sense. In various applications, thickness can denote a reliable and stable characteristic, aligning perfectly with the essence of consistency.
D) Color
Color describes the visual attribute of an object, which is not related to the concept of consistency. While colors can be consistent, they do not embody the same meaning as consistency, which focuses on uniformity rather than visual appearance.
Conclusion
Thickness is the most fitting synonym for consistency as it embodies the idea of uniformity and stability. In contrast, the other options either refer to unrelated concepts or imply changeability, making them unsuitable. Thus, thickness captures the essence of consistency effectively.
8. What is another word for 'flux'?
Answer: D
Discharge
Discharge is another term that can be used to describe 'flux,' particularly in contexts where there is a flow or movement of substances, such as fluids or electricity.
A) Quantity
Quantity refers to the amount or number of something and does not convey the dynamic aspect of change or flow that 'flux' implies. Therefore, it is not a suitable synonym for 'flux.'
B) Inflation
Inflation typically relates to the increase in price levels or the expansion of currency in an economy. It does not capture the essence of flow or change inherent in the term 'flux,' making it an incorrect choice.
C) Strength
Strength denotes the quality or state of being strong and is unrelated to the concept of flow or change that 'flux' encapsulates. Hence, this option does not serve as a synonym for 'flux.'
D) Discharge
Discharge accurately reflects the concept of 'flux' as it pertains to the release or flow of a substance. In various scientific and technical contexts, 'discharge' can effectively represent the dynamic nature of flux.
Conclusion
Discharge is the most appropriate synonym for 'flux' as it conveys the idea of flow and movement, which is central to the concept of flux itself. The other options fail to encapsulate this dynamic quality, making them unsuitable alternatives.
Answer: B
Progeny is a term used to describe a person's offspring.
Progeny refers specifically to the descendants or children of an individual, making "offspring" the accurate definition in this context.
A) creditors
Creditors are individuals or institutions that lend money or extend credit to others. This term is unrelated to the concept of progeny, which pertains to familial relationships rather than financial ones.
B) offspring
Offspring directly refers to the biological children or descendants of a person. This definition aligns perfectly with the meaning of progeny, making it the correct choice.
C) hereditary disease
A hereditary disease is a medical condition that is passed down from parents to their children through genes. This term does not connect to the definition of progeny, which concerns lineage rather than health conditions.
D) health status
Health status relates to an individual's overall health and medical conditions. This concept is unrelated to progeny, as progeny specifically denotes familial descent rather than an assessment of health.
Conclusion
The term progeny clearly denotes the idea of offspring, making option B the definitive correct answer. The other options, while relevant in their own contexts, do not pertain to the meaning of progeny and therefore fail to capture its essential definition.
10. Efface is best defined as:
Answer: D
Efface is best defined as to rub out or erase.
The term "efface" means to remove or obliterate something, essentially to rub it out or erase it from existence. This definition aligns perfectly with the correct option.
A) the quality of being keen.
This option describes sharpness or intensity, which is unrelated to the meaning of "efface." Therefore, it is incorrect as it does not capture the essence of erasing or removing something.
B) the power to bring about results.
This option refers to effectiveness or influence, which does not correlate with the act of erasing or rubbing out. Thus, it does not represent the meaning of "efface" and is incorrect.
C) remarkably bad; flagrant.
This option characterizes something negative or egregious, which is not relevant to the definition of "efface." Since it does not pertain to the concept of removal or erasure, it is also incorrect.
D) to rub out or erase.
This option accurately captures the meaning of "efface." It directly describes the action of removing something, making it the correct answer.
Conclusion
The correct answer, "to rub out or erase," encapsulates the definition of "efface" perfectly. All other options fail to relate to the meaning of the term, focusing instead on qualities or characteristics that are not relevant to the act of erasure. Thus, option D is definitively the right choice.