Question

Human nature and long distances have made exceeding the speed limit a (i)_________ in the state, so the legislators surprised no one when, acceding to public demand, they (ii)_________ increased penalties for speeding.

Answer 1

Answer:

The reference to human nature and long distances suggest that it is rather routine for drivers to exceed the speed limit in this state. “Cherished tradition” best fits this context for Blank (i), since there is nothing in the sentence to suggest that speeding here is “controversial” or “disquieting.” In Blank (ii) we need to consider what the legislature would do that would surprise no one with regard to increased penalties for speeding.

Given what we have learned so far, “rejected” is the best answer; it would be surprising if the legislature “endorsed” or even “considered” increased penalties for speeding.

Thus the correct answer is cherished tradition and rejected.