ISEE Middle Level Verbal Reasoning Question of the Day

1. Expedite
2. Encourage
3. Ignore
4. Hinder (correct answer)

Explanation: This question tests your understanding of vocabulary relationships and synonyms. When you encounter a standalone vocabulary word like this, you're looking for the answer choice that means the same thing or is closest in meaning. The word "impede" means to block, obstruct, or slow down progress. Think of impediments on a hiking trail—rocks, fallen trees, or muddy patches that make it harder to move forward. When something impedes you, it creates barriers or delays. Looking at the answer choices, (D) "Hinder" is correct because it's a direct synonym of impede. Both words mean to create obstacles or delays that prevent smooth progress. You might say "Bad weather impeded our travel" or "Bad weather hindered our travel"—the meaning is identical. (A) "Expedite" is actually the opposite of impede—it means to speed up or accelerate a process. This is a trap answer that tests whether you know the word's true meaning versus its antonym. (B) "Encourage" means to support or motivate someone, which is unrelated to the concept of blocking or obstructing. While encouraging might help overcome impediments, the words aren't synonymous. (C) "Ignore" means to pay no attention to something. This doesn't relate to the blocking or obstructing meaning of impede at all. For vocabulary questions like this, try substituting each answer choice for the original word in a sentence. The correct synonym should fit naturally without changing the sentence's meaning.