If we try to commence--as scientific method requires--with a definition, we stumble on a key which opens the door. For there is no of a tail; it is not, in its nature, anything at all. When an animal's fore-legs are fitted on to its backbone at the proper distance from the hind-legs, if any of the backbone remains over, we call it a tail. But it has no purpose; it is a mere surplus, which a tailor would have trimmed off. And, lo! In this very negativeness lies the whole secret of the multifarious positiveness of tails. For the absence of purpose is the chance of general usefulness. The ear must fulfill its purpose or fail entirely, for it can do nothing else. Eyes, nose and mouth, hands and feet, all have their duties; the tail is the .
Result:
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Correct answer: unfold
Explanation: 'Unfold' fits grammatically as a verb that indicates the action of revealing or becoming clear, aligning with the context of secrets that require exploration to be understood.
Meaning: 'Unfold' means to reveal or make known gradually, suggesting that the secrets of nature become apparent only through deeper investigation.
Wrong options:
- suffice: 'Suffice' means to be enough or adequate, which does not fit the context of revealing secrets, as it implies a lack of necessity for further exploration.
- count: 'Count' refers to the act of numbering or considering, which does not relate to the idea of secrets being revealed or understood.
- reveal: 'Reveal' means to make something known, but it does not fit grammatically in the structure of the sentence as it would require a different form or construction.
Correct answer: definition
Explanation: 'Definition' is the correct term as it refers to the meaning or explanation of a term, which is essential in the context of understanding what a tail is.
Meaning: 'Definition' means a statement that explains the meaning of a word or phrase, indicating that there is no clear explanation for what a tail is in this context.
Wrong options:
- purpose: 'Purpose' refers to the reason for which something is done, which does not fit here as the text discusses the lack of a clear definition rather than a purpose.
- function: 'Function' implies the specific role or activity of something, which is not applicable since the text emphasizes the absence of a definition rather than a functional aspect.
- nature: 'Nature' refers to the inherent qualities or characteristics of something, which does not align with the need for a definition in this context.
Correct answer: special
Explanation: 'Special' is the appropriate choice as it indicates a specific purpose, and the sentence discusses the absence of a specific purpose leading to general usefulness.
Meaning: 'Special' means something that is distinct or particular, suggesting that the lack of a specific purpose allows for broader utility.
Wrong options:
- general: 'General' refers to something that is common or widespread, which contradicts the idea of lacking a specific purpose.
- any: 'Any' implies a lack of restriction, which does not fit the context of discussing the absence of a specific purpose.
- no: 'No' indicates a complete absence, but it does not convey the nuance of lacking a specific purpose as effectively as 'special' does.
Correct answer: unemployed
Explanation: 'Unemployed' is the correct term as it describes something that is not in use or not fulfilling a role, fitting the context of the tail lacking a specific purpose.
Meaning: 'Unemployed' means not having a job or function, indicating that the tail does not serve a specific purpose in the way other body parts do.
Wrong options:
- culprit: 'Culprit' refers to a person responsible for a wrongdoing, which does not fit the context of discussing the role of a tail.
- shirker: 'Shirker' implies someone who avoids work or responsibility, which does not accurately describe the tail's lack of purpose.
- useless: 'Useless' means having no use or purpose, but it carries a more negative connotation than 'unemployed,' which is more neutral in this context.
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