Question 12

Accompanying

The term 'concomitant' in the context of the last sentence refers to problems that occur alongside or in conjunction with alcohol abuse, indicating that these issues are associated and often happen together.

A) Accompanying

This option is correct because 'concomitant' is used to describe things that occur together or are associated with one another. In the extract, the term emphasizes how problems like spousal and child abuse are linked to alcohol abuse, thus reinforcing the idea of accompanying issues.

B) Quiet

Option B is incorrect as 'quiet' does not fit the context of the term 'concomitant'. The extract discusses serious social issues related to alcohol abuse, which are far from being quiet; they are significant and impactful problems.

C) Separate

This option is incorrect because 'separate' implies that the problems do not have a connection. However, the use of 'concomitant' indicates that these issues are indeed connected and occur simultaneously with alcohol abuse.

D) Unpredictable

Option D is also incorrect since 'unpredictable' suggests a lack of correlation or expected occurrence. In contrast, 'concomitant' conveys that the problems mentioned are expected to occur alongside alcohol abuse, making this choice unsuitable.

Conclusion

The correct answer 'accompanying' accurately captures the meaning of 'concomitant' as used in the extract, highlighting the relationship between alcohol abuse and the associated social problems. All other options fail to reflect the interconnected nature of these issues, therefore confirming that 'accompanying' is the only appropriate choice.