Same day. Slightly different word.
Ten useful distinctions for things that change.
Ten questions, with the answers explained. Try them in your head, then open each answer when you're ready.
Play this quiz →QUESTION 1 / 10
Which word fits: to become larger or spread outward?
- Expand
- Preserve
- Separate
- Adapt
Show answer & explanation+
Expand
A balloon expands as you add air; its volume increases.
QUESTION 2 / 10
Which word fits: to become smaller or draw inward?
- Restore
- Contract
- Simplify
- Combine
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Contract
In this sense, contract is the opposite of expand.
QUESTION 3 / 10
Which word fits: to adjust to new conditions?
- Replace
- Postpone
- Adapt
- Separate
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Adapt
You adapt to a new schedule by changing how you organize your day.
QUESTION 4 / 10
Which word fits: to return something to an earlier condition?
- Restore
- Expand
- Simplify
- Preserve
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Restore
Restoring a chair might mean repairing it and bringing back its old finish.
QUESTION 5 / 10
Which word fits: to put a different thing in the old one's place?
- Postpone
- Contract
- Replace
- Combine
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Replace
Replacing a broken cup means using another cup in its place.
QUESTION 6 / 10
Which word fits: to keep something from damage or loss?
- Expand
- Separate
- Preserve
- Adapt
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Preserve
Preserving an old photograph means protecting what is already there.
QUESTION 7 / 10
Which word fits: to bring separate things together?
- Contract
- Combine
- Restore
- Simplify
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Combine
Combining ingredients makes them part of the same mixture.
QUESTION 8 / 10
Which word fits: to divide things that were together?
- Replace
- Postpone
- Separate
- Adapt
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Separate
Separating laundry puts items into different groups.
QUESTION 9 / 10
Which word fits: to make something less complicated?
- Preserve
- Restore
- Expand
- Simplify
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Simplify
A good diagram can simplify a confusing explanation.
QUESTION 10 / 10
Which word fits: to move something to a later time?
- Contract
- Postpone
- Combine
- Replace
Show answer & explanation+
Postpone
A postponed picnic still has a place in the plan, just not today.