Question

The artist’s work was often dismissed as (i) _______, but her recent exhibition demonstrated a new level of (ii)__________that impressed even her harshest critics.

• A. derivative
• B. original
• C. creativity
• D. simplistic
• E. profound

Hint:

When you see a contrast in the sentence (eg, "dismissed" vs"demonstrated"), focus on the shift in meaning, where the first part may imply a negative view and the second part highlights a positive change

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A, C

In the first part of the sentence, the artist’s earlier work is described as being dismissed, which suggests that it was criticized or not well-receivedThe reason for this dismissal appears to be a perceived lack of originality or innovationThe word ``derivative'' means that the work is imitative of others and lacks new or original ideasThis makes it the most appropriate choice for the first blank, as it aligns with the idea of the artist being criticized for creating work that seemed unoriginal or overly influenced by others
The second part of the sentence introduces a contrast the artist’s recent exhibition has impressed critics by showing a new level of something admirableThe sentence structure implies a positive shift in the artist’s work, suggesting that the quality now being praised contrasts with being ``derivative'' The word ``creativity'' fits best in this context, as it refers to the ability to produce original and imaginative ideas—precisely what the earlier work lackedThis contrast between being previously ``derivative'' and now demonstrating ``creativity'' is logical and effectively captures the intended meaning of the sentence
Other for the second blank, such as ``technique'' or ``precision,'' do not contrast as strongly with ``derivative'' and do not necessarily explain why the critics would be newly impressed
Hence, the correct choices are (A) derivative for the first blank and (C) creativity for the second