Historians studying ancient Egypt have found that the construction of pyramids required meticulous planning. Each stone had to be precisely cut and positioned, a process that demanded extraordinary attention to detail.

2
reading

As used in the text, what does the word "meticulous" most nearly mean?

A

careless

B

careful

C

rapid

D

accidental

Correct Answer: B

Choice B is the best answer. The passage emphasizes "precisely cut," "positioned," and "extraordinary attention to detail." "Careful" captures this sense of thorough, attentive work.

Choice A is incorrect because "careless" is the opposite of the detailed work described. Choice C is incorrect because "rapid" refers to speed, not precision. Choice D is incorrect because "accidental" contradicts the deliberate planning described.