Difficulty: Hard

Average Score: 35%

The Summer Olympic Games. Once every four years the countries of the world send their best and brightest to participate in the Summer Olympic Games. The site for the event is decided years before, and most countries contend strongly for the privilege to host the Games. The 2008 games were held in Bejing, China.

There is a lot of pageantry and tradition attached to the event. The opening ceremony is elaborate and awe-inspiring. China put on a spectacularly beautiful fireworks display to welcome the world's athletes in 2008.

The track events, water events (swimming, diving) and precision activities such as archery and rhythmic gymnastics are wonderful to watch. Seeing these athletes perform their special skills is a treat for those of us who achieve a vicarious satisfaction from it. Everyone roots for the athletes from their own country and we thrill when our anther is played during the medal ceremony. Being an Olympian is an honor every athlete dreams of.

What is the meaning of the word 'roots' as used in the third paragraph?

Rationale

To wish the success of.

In the context of the passage, "roots" refers to the act of supporting and cheering for athletes from one's own country during the Olympic Games. It conveys a sense of encouragement and enthusiasm for their success.

A (The part of a plant under the ground.) YOUR ANSWER

This definition refers to the biological structure of a plant that anchors it and absorbs nutrients. It does not relate to the context of the passage, which is about the emotional and social support of athletes during the Olympics.

B (To wish the success of.) CORRECT

This choice accurately captures the meaning of "roots" in the passage, as it reflects the sentiment of cheering for and supporting one's country's athletes. The context clearly indicates that spectators express their encouragement for the competitors, making this the correct interpretation.

C (A musical tone upon which a piece of music is based.) YOUR ANSWER

This definition pertains to music theory and describes a foundational note in a musical composition. It is unrelated to the passage, which discusses sports and the emotional involvement of spectators, thus failing to capture the meaning of "roots" in this context.

D (To dig in the earth with a snout.) YOUR ANSWER

This definition refers to the action of certain animals, like pigs, that forage in the ground. It bears no relevance to the context of the passage, which focuses on human behavior and emotional support during the Olympics.

Conclusion

The term "roots" in the passage conveys the idea of supporting and wishing for the success of athletes during the Olympic Games. This meaning is distinct from the other options, which relate to unrelated concepts. Understanding this nuance is essential to grasping the spirit of camaraderie and national pride that defines the Olympic experience.

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