Set 5: Words in Context (Advanced)

Explanation

Answer: A

PASSAGE

The data appeared to support the theory, but closer inspection revealed several ______ outliers that contradicted the main trend.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

A. anomalous✓ Correct

B. typical

C. supportive

D. innocuous

Detailed Explanation

Outliers that contradict a trend are 'anomalous'. Anomalous means deviating from what is standard, normal, or expected.

Key Evidence:

• "contradicted the main trend"

• "outliers"

Why others are wrong: B (Typical means normal.), C (Supportive contradicts 'contradicted'.), D (Innocuous means harmless.).