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This question is asking you to choose two synonyms from a list to fill in the blank: (source)

Despite the general ______ of Roman archaeological studies toward the major cities and their monuments, archaeology has contributed much to a better understanding of rural developments in Roman territory.

A. openness
B. indifference
C. hostility
D. animus
E. bias
F. orientation

An unofficial answer is E/F, but after referring to the dictionary, I can't see why "orientation" is a synonym of "bias".

Meanwhile, I think C/D is also reasonable （contrary to their good understanding of rural developments）.

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    E and F are acceptable, but this does not mean that bias and orientation are synonymous. It means that both are sensible nouns in this context. C and D are poor choices. If the bias in Roman archaeology were presented as being toward rural centers, C and D would be possible, but the sentence clearly implies that the opposite is the case. Study the meaning of despite.
    – P. E. Dant Reinstate Monica
    Commented Aug 13, 2017 at 3:54
  • @P.E.Dant, this is good enough to be posted as an answer.
    – Varun Nair
    Commented Nov 16, 2017 at 9:15

1 Answer 1

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In the GRE, sometimes the choice of answer may not have an exact synonym. We have to look for the proper choice which is required by a question. Here bias and orientation are the correct answers. Bias means a decision which favors one party, and orientation means an inclination towards something or somebody.

Here Roman archaeological studies give priority to city development over rural developments, and that is why bias makes sense. Roman archaeological studies are inclined towards city development rather than rural development, which makes sense and makes orientation an appropriate answer.

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  • Then would you mind to edit and make a correction?
    – sgc
    Commented Aug 13, 2017 at 4:09
  • Actually, I exaggerated: There are some determiners in your answer, but there are several other errors. It is good that you answered the question, though and we welcome your efforts! I will make some changes that may help you understand your mistakes. We hope you will keep learning and trying to help others.
    – P. E. Dant Reinstate Monica
    Commented Aug 13, 2017 at 4:49
  • +1 The grammar of your answer has some issues, but your basic idea and explanation are strong, and I am glad you submitted it. Welcome to ell.
    – Adam
    Commented Aug 13, 2017 at 4:50
  • My native language is Nepali.I have a lot of issues with English grammar, I am working on it.I guess if I am afraid of making a mistake I wouldn't learn and improve. Thank you, P.E. Dant and Adam, for your comment.I really appreciate your comment.Could you please suggest some good books for learning English grammar.
    – sgc
    Commented Aug 13, 2017 at 5:31

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