Question

select the correct answer.

read the sentence from the passage.

the suggestion that we might find a measure of solace in the very machines responsible for our battered minds will seem implausible to some.

what is the best meaning of the word solace as it is used in the passage?

encouragement
sympathy
inspiration
relief

Explanation:

Analyze the sentence context

The sentence states: "The suggestion that we might find a measure of solace in the very machines responsible for our battered minds will seem implausible to some." The phrase "battered minds" indicates a state of mental exhaustion, stress, or suffering. Finding a "measure of solace" in this context implies finding comfort, consolation, or alleviation from this battered state.

Evaluate the options

• encouragement: Refers to support or hope given to someone, which does not directly address the healing of "battered minds."
• sympathy: Refers to feelings of pity and sorrow for someone else's misfortune, which is an interpersonal feeling rather than a state of comfort found in a machine.
• inspiration: Refers to the process of being mentally stimulated to do or feel something, which does not directly soothe a "battered mind."
• relief: Refers to the alleviation, ease, or mitigation of pain, distress, or anxiety, which directly counters the state of having a "battered mind."

Determine the best meaning

"Relief" is the closest synonym for "solace" (comfort or consolation in a time of distress or sadness) in this context, as it directly addresses easing the condition of "battered minds."

Answer:

• encouragement
• sympathy
• inspiration
• relief (Correct answer)