The first African-American president of the United States received a(n) _______ welcome in the African countries, where he was received as a returning son.

A. romantic               B. bureaucratic       C. enthusiastic          D. optimistic

It's been a difficult time but, on the _______ side, I feel physically fine.

A. primitive             B. original           C. unique                D. positive

Mary, whose father passed away for smoking abuse, cried, “Any assumption that smoking is beneficial is _________ absurd.”

A. totally                B. nearly               C. rarely                       D. merely

Everything from greeting to eating can be an opportunity to do the wrong thing, and not only embarrass yourself, but _______ your host.

A. scare                 B. upset                C. tease                 D. blame

After careful consideration, I decide to ________ my current post so as to realize my long-held dream.  

A. dismiss               B. reject               C. resign              D. ignore

Rescuers had to __________ the search because of worsening weather condition.

A. take off                B. call off             C. cut off             D. show off

A cat in London has been taking a bus regularly. The driver even knows where to______ this special passenger.

A. put down               B. pick out             C. leave behind          D. drop out

Since his works earned him quite a reputation in Liverpool, he has stayed there most of his life, ___________ the occasional visit to his hometown.

A. apart from              B. but for              C. instead of         D. regardless of

________ poor health, my father is always cheerful.

A. In spite of                    B. In pursuit of            C. In memory of       D. In case of 

—Mama, why can’t I work the maths problem out?

—Oh, let me see. Well, you ________ a figure here. Got it?

A. squeezed out                  B. picked out                      C. left out               D. wore out