Multiple choice

What does the word 'duel' in the passage mean ?

Directions: Read the passage and answer the following question:

“Westward Ho!” we shouted as the sail of our crudely constructed raft, the Kon-Tiki caught the wind. The sail quickly filled and the Kon-Tiki began to move. The six of us were off to our great adventure.
As night fell, the troughs of the sea grew gradually deeper and our first duel with the elements began. Each time we heard the sudden deafening hiss of a roller closeby and saw a white crest come towards us out of the darkness, we held on tight and waited for the worst. But invariably the Kon-Tiki calmly swung up her stern and rose skyward unperturbed.

  1. A battle

  2. A fortification

  3. A two-side contest

  4. Divided in two
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
A Correct answer
Explanation

In the passage, 'duel with the elements' means a conflict or struggle between the raft crew and natural forces (wind, waves). The word 'duel' here is used metaphorically to describe their first confrontation with the sea's power. 'A battle' correctly captures this sense of conflict or combat, unlike the other options which refer to physical structures or divisions.

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