Answer the following question below and choose the option nearest in meaning to the underlined word or phrase in. Akin is an inveterate gambler

Step 1: Analyze the question The word being tested is "inveterate" in the sentence "Akin is an inveterate gambler." We need the option closest in meaning.

Step 2: Explain the concept Inveterate (adjective) means having a habit, practice, or feeling that is long-established and unlikely to change. It describes someone who has done something for so long that it has become deeply rooted. Examples: an inveterate liar, an inveterate smoker.

Key ideas: long-standing + habitual + hard to change.

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Selfish and self-centred: This describes character, not a habit. It has nothing to do with long-standing practice. ✗
• B. Extremely unlucky but popular: This has no link to habit. ✗
• C. Incurable but fearful: "Incurable" is partly close (hard to change), but "fearful" does not fit at all. A habitual gambler is not defined by fear. ✗
• D. A long time incorrigible: "Long time" matches the long-established part of inveterate, and "incorrigible" means unable to be corrected or reformed, which matches the habit that won't change. ✓

Step 4: Answer Option D captures both parts of the meaning: a gambler of long standing whose habit cannot be corrected. The wording is awkward, but it is clearly the closest.

Step 5: Exam tip When a word looks unfamiliar, think of words that share its root. Inveterate comes from the Latin vetus (old), which is also where veteran comes from. Think "old habit" and you will remember it. Also watch for options with two parts, where both parts must fit the word (as in C, where "fearful" ruins it).