OpenSAT

Question #N1048

The author’s argument that the use of the word "cool" as a synonym for "good" signals a shift in the speaker’s perception of what is considered desirable is supported by the fact that "cool" is often used to describe things that are fashionable or modern, not necessarily things that are good in a traditional or moral sense. What is the author’s argument?

The author’s argument is that the word "cool"

A. is a synonym for "good" and is therefore appropriate for use in any situation.

B. is used to describe things that are fashionable or modern, and this use signals a shift in the speaker’s perception of what is considered desirable.

C. is often used to describe things that are not necessarily good in a traditional or moral sense, and this use suggests that the speaker is being ironic.

D. can be used to describe things that are good in a traditional or moral sense, but this use is not necessarily modern.

Reveal Answer Go Back

Correct Answer is: B

The author’s argument is that the use of the word "cool" to describe things that are fashionable or modern suggests a shift in the speaker’s perception of what is considered desirable. The author is arguing that "cool" is not just a synonym for "good," but is also used to describe things that are fashionable or modern. This suggests that the speaker is using the word "cool" in a way that is not necessarily traditional or moral, and this shift in meaning suggests a change in the speaker’s perception of what is considered desirable.