Directions (94-100): Read the passage given below and answer the following questions.
As I sit down to write my memoir, my mind takes me back to some of the most memorable days of my life. I remember the day I graduated from college, feeling a sense of accomplishment and relief that four years of hard work had finally paid off. It was a day of celebration, surrounded by family and friends who had supported me throughout my academic journey. Another day that stands out in my memory is the day I got married. I can still feel the warmth of the sun on my face and the excitement in my heart as I watched my bride walk down the aisle. It was a day filled with joy and love, surrounded by our closest friends and family. It marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life, one that would bring me countless moments of happiness and fulfillment.
But perhaps the most memorable day of my life was the day I became a parent. Holding my newborn child in my arms for the first time, I felt a sense of awe and wonder at the miracle of life. As I looked into my child's eyes, I knew that my life would never be the same again. Being a parent has brought me more joy, love, and fulfillment than I ever could have imagined, and that day marked the beginning of a new and wonderful adventure. While there have been many memorable and happy moments in my life, there have also been challenges and struggles along the way. One of the biggest challenges I faced was when I lost my job during a period of economic recession. I remember feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about my future, wondering how I would support myself and my family. It was a difficult time, but I was able to persevere by leaning on my loved ones and eventually finding a new job.
Another challenge I faced was when a close family member became ill. It was a time of worry and stress as we navigated the healthcare system and tried to support our loved ones in the best way possible. It was a reminder of how fragile life can be and how important it is to cherish the time we have with the people we love. In addition to these challenges, there have been smaller obstacles and setbacks along the way, such as financial struggles and personal disagreements. However, I have learned that each challenge provides an opportunity for growth and resilience. By facing these challenges head-on and learning from them, I have become a stronger and more compassionate person.
What does the highlighted phrase "by leaning on" stand for as highlighted in the given passage?
Correct Answer :
The speaker had a tough time but he received support from his family and friends.
Solution :
Correct Answer: The speaker had a tough time but he received support from his family and friends.
Step-by-step Explanation:
1. Analyze the Context of the Phrase:
The phrase "by leaning on" appears in the second paragraph of the passage:
"One of the biggest challenges I faced was when I lost my job... It was a difficult time, but I was able to persevere by leaning on my loved ones and eventually finding a new job."
2. Deconstruct the Meaning:
- "Leaning on" (idiomatic expression): To "lean on" someone means to rely on them for support, assistance, or comfort, especially during a stressful or challenging situation.
- "Loved ones": This refers to the speaker's family and close friends.
- "Difficult time" / "Persevere": The speaker explicitly states it was a difficult/challenging time due to job loss, but they managed to survive/succeed (persevere) through the help of others.
3. Evaluate the Options:
- Option 1 suggests negative over-reliance, which contradicts the positive outcome of perseverance.
- Option 2 and Option 4 incorrectly suggest the speaker did not have a difficult time.
- Option 3 claims the speaker did not seek help, which is the exact opposite of "leaning on."
- Option 5 correctly explains that the speaker faced a tough period (losing their job) but was supported and helped by their family and friends (loved ones).
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