Nobody as extravagant as my uncle should realistically expect to be rich

Analyze the question: The underlined word is "extravagant" (the underline doesn't show in the text, but the sentence makes it clear). We need the option closest in meaning.

Explain the concept: "Extravagant" describes someone who spends money or resources excessively or wastefully. The sentence supports this: someone who spends too freely should not realistically expect to become rich.

Check each option:

• A. extraordinary means remarkable or unusual. It says nothing about spending.
• B. flamboyant means showy or flashy in manner or dress. It is about style, not wasteful spending, although it can overlap loosely with extravagant display.
• C. prodigal means spending money freely and recklessly, or wasteful. This is the closest match. Think of the "Prodigal Son", who squandered his inheritance.
• D. rascally means mischievous or dishonest. It doesn't fit.
• E. temperamental means moody or unpredictable. It doesn't fit.

Answer: C. prodigal.

Tip: When you meet a vocabulary question, put each option back into the sentence and ask, "Does this explain why he can't get rich?" Words linked to money, such as prodigal, wasteful, spendthrift and lavish, go with extravagant. Also remember "Prodigal Son" to lock in the meaning of prodigal.