MacCrory's conversation was ------: she could never tell a story, chiefly because she always forgot it, and she was never guilty of a witticism, unless by accident.
Show Hint
- scintillating
- unambiguous
- perspicuous
- stultifying
- facetious
The Correct Option is D
Solution and Explanation
The sentence provides a definition or description immediately after the blank, signaled by the colon. The word in the blank must be a summary of the description that follows: she can't tell stories, forgets them, and isn't witty.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The description paints a picture of someone whose conversation is extremely boring, dull, and unengaging. We need a vocabulary word that means exactly that.
Let's analyze the options:
- (A) scintillating: This means sparkling or brilliant with wit. It is the exact opposite of the description.
- (B) unambiguous: This means clear and not open to more than one interpretation. It does not relate to being interesting or boring.
- (C) perspicuous: This is a synonym for unambiguous, meaning clearly expressed and easily understood. It also does not fit.
- (D) stultifying: This means causing to lose enthusiasm and initiative; making someone feel bored or drained of energy. This word perfectly summarizes the effect of a conversation with someone who can't tell stories and isn't witty.
- (E) facetious: This means treating serious issues with deliberately inappropriate humor. This does not match the description.
Step 3: Final Answer:
MacCrory's conversation was "stultifying" because it was boring and dull.
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