ISEE Middle Level Exam Prep

Answer: Choice (C) is correct.

Ameliorate means to make something better, or to improve. Therefore, the first half of the analogy is synonymous. So, look for the pair in the answer choices that are synonyms. Choice (A) is incorrect, because insolent means rude or impertinent, not courteous. Choice (B) is incorrect because impermeable means impassable, and something that is porous is permeable by water, air, etc. Choice (D) is incorrect because someone who is verbose is talkative, and someone who is taciturn is quiet and introverted. All of the choices except choice (C) are antonyms. Choice (C) is correct because a gaffe and a blunder are synonyms meaning ‘mistake’.