Multiple choice

Directions: The question consists of a CAPITALISED word followed by five possible illustrations of the meaning. Choose the one, which is the most unsuitable illustration.

ATTENUATE

  1. High altitudes attenuate the oxygen content of the air.

  2. We noticed the attenuation of the radio signal.

  3. Watch the glass–blower attenuate the glass into a long thread.

  4. The skinny boy had attenuating limbs.

  5. You don’t have to attenuate the solution to serve your requirement.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

The usage of the term in options (1), (2) and (5) is a formal word meaning ‘to weaken’, dilute or reduce in size. In sentence (3), the term attenuate implies ‘make thin’. In option (4), the expression should have been ‘attenuated limbs’. Therefore, option (4) is an example of incorrect usage.

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