TOEIC® Test Part 5:

Incomplete Sentences
Part 5 of the Reading Test consists of 40 items—each one a sentence with a blank. You
will choose the correct word or phrase to fill the blank. You will need to be able to identify
the grammatical form or vocabulary word that correctly completes the sentence.

Topics for Part 5 sentences may include:

» Office issues » Transportation

» Financial issues » Tourism
» Sales and marketing » Entertainment and dining out
» Business transactions » Schedules

QUICK GUIDE: Incomplete Sentences

Definition Part 5 is a test of your reading comprehension. It requires you to apply your
knowledge of grammar and vocabulary to a reading context.

Targeted Skills In order to correctly answer Part 5 questions, you must be able to determine
what part of speech is missing. Then you must be able to identify the correct
word or expression to complete the sentence.

Completion All Part 5 items consist of a sentence with a blank and four choices for filling
Types the blank. Items focus on the following types of issues.
Vocabulary:
• Words that seem similar but • Phrasal verbs
are different
Word forms:
• Noun, pronoun, verb, adjective, Infinitive and gerund use
and adverb use
Grammar:
• Missing subject Missing object or complement
• Missing verb Missing preposition or adjective

Things to Distracters, or incorrect answer options, may include the following.

Watch For • Words with similar sounds but different meanings (prescription vs. subscription)
• Words with similar meanings but different usage (allow vs. let)
• Words with similar meanings and similar usage (some vs. any)
• Combinations for phrasal verbs (turn over vs. turn in)
• Word form use (comfort, comfortable, comforting, etc.)
• Grammar use (noun vs. gerund, etc.)
 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

WALKTHROUGH: \ Incomplete Sentences

A What You’ll See
In Part 5, you will see the directions, the questions, and the answer options on the page.
Below are three sample incomplete sentence fill-ins from Part 5. Review the sample sentences
and notice the missing words. Think about the types of words that can be used to complete
the sentences. What type of word is missing in each sentence?

ft? . Directions: Each sentence is missing a word or phrase. Four possible answer options are shown.
Choose the best answer option and mark the corresponding letter on your answer sheet.

1. Although Mr. Jones been working 3. The doctor gave her a for some
here for very long, he is completely familiar medicine.
with all our office procedures. (A) prescription
QUICK TIP (A) isn’t (B) subscription
Often you can eliminate (B) wasn’t (C) description
an answer option right (C) hasn’t (D) construction
away. In Question 1 (D) haven’t
on this page, you have
2. Trees have been planted all along the local
to choose the correct
sidewalks as part of an effort to make the
verb form to follow the neighborhood___
subject, Mr. Jones. You
(A) beauty
can quickly see that
(B) beautify
choice (D) does not
(C) beautiful
agree with the subject
(D) beautification
and therefore cannot be
the correct answer.

B What You’ll Do
In the test, you will choose the best word or phrase to complete each sentence. The first item
in the sample questions above focuses on a grammar issue, the second one is about word
forms, and the third question is about word meanings. Choose the correct words or phrases
to complete the sentences in Part A. You will need to use the words around the blanks to help
you choose the best answer for each sentence.

d POWERED BY C O BU ILD

familiar: describing
something you know or
understand well

procedure: a way
of doing something,
especially the usual or
correct way

sidewalk: a path with a

hard surface by the side of
the road

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SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

GET IT RIGHT: Tips and Tasks for Answering Correctly

FILL-IN TYPES
Vocabulary Completions
Vocabulary-based sentence completions require you to choose the appropriate word to
complete the sentence. Some vocabulary items focus on word meanings only. In those cases,
you will see four answer options that have similar but distinct meanings (e.g., transmit /
expand). Some other vocabulary items focus on word form. In those cases, you will see
answer options that appear similar (e.g., attention / detention). Here is an example of a
vocabulary-based sentence completion.

Helen gave a brief____ before discussing the project.

* beginning
S introduction
x reduction
x inspector

In this example, all of the words are nouns, so you must choose the word that best fits the
context.

» TIP 1 Learn how to recognize answer options that seem similar but have different meanings.
The answer options for vocabulary fill-ins always include four different words with distinct definitions.
However, the answer options may be similar word forms or may have some of the same word parts.

Answer options may be similar because they use the same prefix or suffix. Learn the differences in
meaning among answer options that look similar. Study these charts of common prefixes and suffixes.
■
C om m on Prefixes
Prefixes M eanings Exam ples
a- forms adjectives with not, without, That behavior was atypical and wasn’t like
or opposite in their meaning him at all.
bi- forms adjectives, nouns, or verbs The store is having a biannual sale—the
that mean two, double, or twice next sale will occur in six months.
de- forms verbs that mean remove, After the snowstorm, they had to de-ice the
away, or down roads in order to prevent accidents.
ex- forms adjectives, adverbs, nouns, Ms. Umani is the ex-president ofYEO
and verbs that mean out, former, Financial
or remove
im-lin-lil- forms adjectives and adverbs that The cord was improperly connected, leading
mean not, without, or opposite the system to fail.
mis- forms adjectives, adverbs, nouns, The editor apologized for the misprint and
and verbs that mean wrong or bad published a correction.
pre- forms adjectives, nouns, and verbs Customers must prepay for the merchandise
that mean before before shipment.
re- forms verbs that mean again or Mr. Wu hired an expert to redecorate his
back home.
sub- forms adjectives, nouns, and verbs The product was returned because of its
that mean under or incomplete or substandard quality.
that describe a later action
un- forms adjectives, nouns, and verbs It was unusual for her to go out to lunch.
that mean not, without, or remove She typically ate at her desk.
 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

C om m on Suffixes
Suffixes M eanings Exam ples
-ablel-ible forms adjectives that means able His homework was so messy, it wasn’t
to be readable.
-acy/-cy forms nouns that show a state or They added walls in the office to give the
quality of something employees more privacy.
-ast forms nouns that show a person She was a gymnast in her youth.
connected with a certain activity
-ate forms adjectives, nouns, and verbs The banker said the man could activate the
that mean make or put in order credit card the same day he received it.
-er/-or forms nouns that show a person The director was pleased with the outcome.
or thing connected with a certain
activity
-ful forms adjectives that show that The vacation was wonderful, and everyone
something has certain qualities had a great time.
-hood forms nouns that describe a group He visited the area many times during his
of people or a condition childhood.
-ish forms adjectives that say what a The old paper was yellowish.
person, object, or action is like
-less forms adjectives that mean not or He was fired because he made too many
without careless mistakes.
-ment forms nouns that show an action, She received encouragement from her
process, or result supervisor.
-ness forms nouns that show a quality or His alertness suffered because he had
condition worked for eighteen hours straight.

TASK 1 In each sentence, circle the underlined word that is used incorrectly. What word should replace
it? Choose a word from the box and write the new sentence on the line. How many of the words in the
box do you know?

delayed doable erasable mismarked prevent

projector redo remarkable repeated

1. My meeting was relaved until the week after next.

2. The marker left a stain that is not eraser.

3. Due to several problems. I had to undo the project over again.

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SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

Part 5 may also include distracters that are commonly confused words. This chart shows word pairs
that are often confused. Be sure to note their definitions and parts of speech.

Confusing Word Pairs

Words Definitions Examples
admit / permit admit - v. to accept that John admitted that he had accidentally
something is true set off the fire alarm.
permit - v. to allow something to The m a n a g e r permitted the employees to
occur listen to music during work hours.
affect / effect affect - v. to influence or cause to The weather may affect our plans.
change
effect - n. a result The recent economic climate has had an
effect on spending.
accept / except accept - v. to take something that Rita Hallow accepted the award for
is offered designer of the year.
except - conj. not including Everyone except the accounting staff
must attend the meeting.
chicken / kitchen chicken - n. a bird raised for its The chicken looked for worms in the
meat and eggs yard.
kitchen - n. a room in which food He spent all day in the kitchen cooking
is prepared for eating the meal.
conscious / conscious - adj. to understand It is part of a supervisor’s tasks to be
conscience what is happening conscious o f everything that happens
during the shift.
conscience - n. awareness about The human resources manager always
something being good or bad complied with fair hiring practices, which
helped him keep a clear conscience.
decent / descent decent - adj. having good The customer did the decent thing by
manners and morals bringing the wallet to the lost and found.
descent - n. the process of The company’s descent into bankruptcy
moving downward occurred over the last decade.
experience / experience - n. the process of Sara has ten years of experience as a
experiment doing things that add to one’s sales representative.
knowledge or skills
experiment - n. a scientific test The experiment showed that calcium is
that is meant to determine how an important part of the human diet.
something works
prescription / prescription - n. a piece of paper I have to go to the drugstore to fill my
subscription on which a doctor writes the prescription.
name of a medicine
subscription - n. a request to I just got a subscription to my favorite
receive something regularly magazine.
precede / proceed precede - v. to come before The vice president’s speech preceded the
president’s.
proceed - v. to continue After a short break, the tour proceeded.

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 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

Confusing Word Pairs (continued)

Words Definitions Examples
receipt / recipe receipt - n. a document that After the customer paid for the meal, the
shows items or services that have cashier gave her the receipt.
been purchased and the amount
paid for them
Sammy enjoyed the meal so much that
recipe - n. a document that gives he asked the hostess for the recipe so he
instructions for making food could make it himself.
sensible / sensible - adj. having common The company is lookingfor employees
sensitive sense who are sensible and independent.

sensitive - adj. aware of the Clients respond well to Bob because he is

feelings of others sensitive to their needs.

TASK 2 Choose the correct word to complete each sentence.

1 . 1had to ( admit / permit) that I was wrong.
2 . 1mixed the ingredients together as directed in the ( receipt / recipe).
3. She canceled her ( prescription / subscription) to the magazine.

Finally, some answer options may appear similar because they are homophones, which are sets of
words that share the same pronunciation but have different meanings and slightly different spellings.
Study the list of common homophones, making note of the definition and part of speech for each word.

Common Homophones
Words Definitions Examples
aloud / allowed aloud - adv. in a speaking voice Please read the paragraph aloud.
allowed - past form of the verb The manager allowed everyone to leave
allow early.
board / bored board - n. a group that gives advice The board will meet on June 1 to discuss the
new plans.
bored - adj. not interested Everyone was bored during the long
meeting.
brake / break brake - n. the device that stops a She quickly stepped on the brake to avoid
vehicle hitting the squirrel in the road.
break - v. to destroy or make You didn’t break the copier.
unusable
complement / complement - v. to go well with The beverage complemented the flavors of
compliment something the meal.
compliment - v. to say something Gregory complimented his assistant on her
nice about someone or something work.
council / council - n. a group that makes The safety council decided that the product
counsel rules or advises about something was not suitable for children.
counsel - v. to give advice The lawyer counseled her client to think
carefully before responding.
(continued)

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SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

C om m on H om ophones (continued)
W ords D efinitions Exam ples
do / due do - v. to perform or make They do very good work.
due - adj. owed or required The report isn’t due until Tuesday.
ensure / insure ensure - v. to guarantee I read the report three times to ensure that
there were no mistakes in it.
insure - v. to provide insurance for
something The owner insured the car before driving it.
there / their / there - indicates a place My sister is over there.
they’re
their - belonging to a group of Here are their shoes.
people
they’re - the contraction for they They’re arriving at 10:00.
are
wood / would wood - a hard substance from trees The table is made o f wood.
would - a modal verb Would you like to join us for lunch?

TASK 3 Write the correct word from the box to complete each sentence. Five words are not used.

brake aloud there break board

their bored due allowed do

1. All employees are permitted to take a fifteen-minute___________________________________

2. Peter yawned because he w as_____________________________________

3 .1 have several things_________________________________ before the end of the week.

4. Employees have to pay fo r_____________________________________uniforms.

5. We are not_____________________________________to check personal e-mails at work.

» TIP 2 Learn how to recognize words with similar meanings but different usage. Answer options
on Part 5 may include words that have similar meanings but that differ in the way they are used
grammatically. Study the words in the chart and analyze how they are different.

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 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

Words with Similar Meanings but Different Usage

Words Meanings Examples of Correct Use
allow / let to permit to do something Allow me to introduce myself.
Let me introduce myself.
yearly / annual occurring once a year The sales meeting is held yearly.
The sales meeting is annual.
have / take to accept She’ll have the chicken and potatoes for
dinner.
I couldn’t take the call because I was busy.
tell / say to use the voice to express I ’ll tell him about the change when he
something arrives.
I said I wouldn’t be able to come because
I ’m sick.
do / make to act in order to bring about a I did the laundry over the weekend.
certain result
I made a mistake.
lay / He in a horizontal position I usually lay the blanket on the grass before
sitting down.
I often lie awake thinking about my work.

TASK Choose the correct word to complete each sentence.

1. Our bosses never ( allow / le t) us take calls at work.
2. When did you ( tell / say) her to call back?
3. He was feeling sick, so he asked to ( lay / lie ) down.

» TIP 3 Familiarize yourself with special word forms that have different meanings but similar usage.
See the chart for a list of words that have different meanings but similar uses.

Words with Different Meanings but Similar Usage

Words Usage Notes Examples
some / any Use some with count nouns in I don’t need more coffee, thanks. I have
positive statements. Use any some.
with noncount nouns in negative
I ’d like some more cookies, though. I don’t
statements and in questions.
have any.
many / much Use many with count nouns. Use We didn’t see many people in the conference
much with noncount nouns. room.
There isn’t much time left before the plane
leaves.
a few / a little Use a few for count nouns. Use I had a few chips for lunch, but I'm hungry
a little for noncount nouns. now.
There was a little milk left in the jug.
a lot of Use with both count and noncount There were a lot of papers on the desk.
nouns.
There was a lot of paperwork to complete
before Sean could leave work.

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SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

TASK Choose the correct word to complete each sentence.

1. There isn’t ( some / any) paper in the copy machine.
2. Do you have ( many / much) vacation days left?
3. Maybe we can ask our boss for ( a few / a little ) more time to finish the report.

» TIP 4 Learn how to recognize phrasal verbs and their correct meanings. A phrasal verb is a special
type of verb that combines a verb and a preposition or an adverb. Phrasal verbs may consist of two or
QUICK TIP
three words. For example, cut out anti put up with are both phrasal verbs.
English has thousands
of different phrasal In the answer options on Part 5 of the test, you may encounter phrasal verbs that use the same verb but
verbs. Keep a list alternate the adverbs or prepositions the verb is combined with. In order to choose the correct answer
of phrasal verbs in these cases, you must know the meanings of different phrasal verbs. The following chart lists a few
confusing phrasal verbs and some of their meanings.
and their meanings.
Organize the list by
Confusing Phrasal Verbs
main verb, and note
Phrasal Verbs Meanings Examples
the various particles.
• back down • to withdraw • The sales representative backed down and let the
Include meanings and customers browse without him.
examples. • back out / • to withdraw • Once you sign, you cannot back out o f the agreement.
back out o f/
back out on
• back up • to support • My manager backs me up on all sales decisions.
• cut down / • to decrease • The company cut down on spending by finding a new
cut down on distributor.
• cut in / cut • to interrupt • The assistant cut in on the meeting to give Ms. Sterling a
in on message.
• cutup • to cut into many pieces • He cut up the old credit card so nobody else could use it.
• fill in /fill in • to be a substitute for • Mary is filling in for Annie, who is sick.
for
• fill out • to complete • The man filled out the job application.
• fill up / • to fill to the top • He filled up his tank with gas.
fill up on /
fill up with
• pull down • to lower • Jessica pulled down the shade in the conference room.
• pull out / • to withdraw • The company pulled out o f the deal one day before the
pull out of contracts were signed.
• pull through • to survive • He was in a terrible accident, but he pulled through.
• run across • to find • I ran across a problem in your report.
• run into • to meet unexpectedly • I ran into James at the conference.
• run out / run • to not have any of • We’ve run out of ink.
out of something

Try a TOEIC Test Question

Read the sentence and answer options. Choose the best answer option to complete the
sentence.

1. Riverview Township____ a pamphlet each year that includes a guide to local attractions and
maps of the main areas of the town.
(A) announces (C) publishes
(B) decides (D) investigates

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 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

Word-Form Completions
Word-form completions present answer options that are different parts of speech but that
come from the same root word. This chart provides a description of the different parts of
speech in English.

Review of the Basic Parts of Speech

Parts of Speech Functions Example Words Example Sentences
Nouns / person, place, or thing nouns: sister, house, Our new apartment is really
Pronouns T-shirt great! It was pretty cheap.
pronouns: she, it, they
Verbs action or linking word action verbs: run, Jada knocked on the door, but
eat, touch nobody seemed to be home.
linking verbs: be,
become, seem
Adjectives modify a noun or big, yellow, happy He bought a wooden desk for his
pronoun small office.
Adverbs modify a verb, adjective, quickly, sadly, Petra quickly climbed up the stairs
or adverb importantly, very, before entering the office quietly.
usually
Prepositions indicate the relationship prepositions of She walked around the building.
between different words location: to, by,
in a sentence, typically in around He arrived at 3 o’clock.
terms of location or time prepositions of time:
at, on, in

You can recognize word-form completions because the answer options share the same root.
Here is an example of a word-form completion.
Mr. Hu’s new office was small b u t_____
x comfortably
* comforted
J comfortable
x comfort

» TIP 1 Learn how to identify what part of speech is missing from the sentence. In order to correctly
answer word-form completions, you will need to be able to recognize the part of speech of the missing
word or phrase. Then you will know what to look for when you read through the answer options and will
be able to eliminate incorrect answers more easily. Study the chart for some hints on determining the
missing part of speech.

How to Recognize the Basic Parts of Speech

Parts of Speech Tips Examples
N ouns/ Pronouns • usually go before a verb The black cat jumped onto the table.
nouns often appear after a/an or the We have an important meeting today.
nouns may go after an adjective
pronouns replace nouns
Verbs usually follow a noun or pronoun The copier is on the fourth floor. It
makes thirty copies a minute.
Adjectives usually come before a noun The new manager seemed tired.
often follow a linking verb
(continued)
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SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

How to Recognize the Basic Parts of Speech (continued)

Parts of Speech Tips Examples
Adverbs • usually end with -ly They talked quietly among
• can appear after a verb themselves.
• can appear before a subject Soon they will open for business.
Prepositions • always followed by a noun Gerald found the document in the
folder.

TASK Choose which part of speech will be needed in each of the blanks.

1. Because of its _ plot, the book sold millions,

a. adjective b. noun c. adverb

2. The mail carrier put the stack of letters____ a sack.

a. verb b. preposition c. noun

3. Dr. Maxwell____ an appointment at 3 o’clock.

a. adjective b. verb c. adverb

» TIP 2 Understand how different parts of speech are formed. One way to change the part of speech
for a word is by adding a different suffix to the root. Learn the common endings used to create each
word form in order to quickly identify the part of speech of each answer option.

Common Suffixes for English Word Forms

Suffixes Examples
-acy private (adj.) privacy (n.)
-al renew (v.) renewal (n.)
-ancel-ence permanent (adj.) permanence (n.)
S| -dom wise (adj.) wisdom (n.)
1 -“y
-ness
able (adj.) -> ability (n.)
expressive (adj.) -> expressiveness (n.)
| -ship friend (n.) -> friendship (n.)
-siont-tion intrude (v.) - ) intrusion (n.)
-ate fix (v.) -> fixate (v.)
C©
&*■4 -en fa t (adj.) fatten (v.)
£ -ify electric (adj.) -> electrify (v.)
-ize central (adj.) centralize (v.)
-ablel-ible escape (v.) escapable (adj.)
-al society (n.) societal (adj.)
I -M faith (n.) faithful (adj.)
1
•Si.
-
-iousl-ous
cycle (n.)
grace (n.)
cyclic (adj.)
gracious (adj.)
■< -ish self (n.) selfish (adj.)
-ive effect (n.) effective (adj.)
-less odor (n.) -> odorless (adj.)

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 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

TASK Underline the suffixes in the bolded words. Then use the suffixes you underlined to determine the
part of speech of each bolded word. Write noun, verb, or adjective on the line.
1. The salary for the position is negotiable_____________________________________________
2. The company reinstated a former policy_____________________________________________
3. The authorship of the novel was questioned_________________________________________
4. Harry organized his desk before leaving for the weekend_______________________________
5. While not enormous, the sign was still quite impressive________________________________

» TIP 3 Know when to use infinitives and gerunds. To read, to ask, and to eat me all examples of
infinitives that can be used as nouns. A gerund is another type of noun that is formed by adding -ing
to a verb. Working, sleeping, and eating are all examples of gerunds. The chart shows a partial list of
verbs that are followed by infinitives, gerunds, or either.

Verbs Followed by Infinitives Verbs Followed by Gerunds Verbs Followed by Either

Infinitives or Gerunds
agree offer acknowledge have attempt*
appear persuade admit imagine begin
arrange plan advise involve continue
ask prepare allow mind forget*
be able promise appreciate miss keep
beg propose avoid permit like
choose refuse can’t help postpone love
decide request complete practice need
deserve say consider quit prefer
expect start delay recall regret*
fail strive deny report remember*
get threaten detest resent start
hesitate use enjoy resist stop*
hope wait escape resume try
hurry want excuse risk
^meaning changes
intend wish finish suggest
depending on whether the
neglect forbid tolerate
infinitive or gerund is used
Examples: Examples: Examples:
S We agreed to meet at seven. S The company forbids using the S We’ll continue to discuss
* We agreed meeting at seven: phone during work hours. this after the break.
•S We’ll continue discussing
* The company forbids to use the
this after the break.
photte during work hours.
•S I remember to turn off
the light before I leave.
■S I remember turning off
the light before I left.

If you see both an infinitive and a gerund among the answer options, be sure to look at the verb that
comes before the blank— you may be able to eliminate an incorrect answer option!

TASK Choose the correct word to complete each sentence.

1. We delayed ( to print / printing) the notice due to some changes.
2. Mr. Wallace hesitates ( to ask / asking) for help because he knows how busy everyone is.
3. Timothy offered ( to review / reviewing) my report before I submitted it.

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SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

» TIP 4 Understand the difference between possessive adjectives and possessive pronouns. While
both forms indicate ownership, a possessive adjective modifies a noun, while a possessive pronoun
replaces a noun. Look at these examples.
I put my kevs on the table, (possessive adjective)
The kevs on the table are mine, (possessive pronoun)

Possessive adjectives and possessive pronouns have very similar forms. Use the chart to help you learn
the form for each type. Make sure you know the difference between the two on the day of the test.

Singular Plural

Possessive Adjective Possessive Pronoun Possessive Adjective Possessive Pronoun

my mine our ours

your yours your yours
her hers
his his their theirs
its -

TASK Choose the correct possessive form to complete each sentence.

1. These books must belong to ( her / hers).
2. ( Our / Ours) philosophy is that the customer is always right.
3 .1 don’t mind trying ( their / theirs) as long as it is good.

» TIP 5 Watch out for irregular adverbs. Typically, adverbs are created by adding -ly tothe adjective
form of the word. However, there are a number of irregular adverbs that do notfollow this rule. Study
this chart of irregular adverbs.

Irregular Adverbs
Adverb Shares Form with Adjective Adverb and Adjective Have Different Forms
daily far hard late low Adjective Adverb
early fast high long much good well

TASK Choose the correct word to complete each sentence.

1. Allison worked ( hard / hardly) on the project.
2. Yuri did a ( good / w e ll) job on the report.
3. Tom drives ( fast / fastly).

Try a TOEIC Test Question

Read the sentence and answer options. Choose the best answer option to complete the
sentence.

1. The company_____ record losses this quarter.

(A) report (C) reportedly
(B) reported (D) reportable

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 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

Combination Completions
Combination completions test your knowledge of vocabulary and word forms. You can identify
a combination completion because the answer options will include features of both vocabulary
completions and word-form completions. Here is an example of a combination completion.

Dara w as_____ to learn that her report had not arrived late after all.
* retrieved
x retrieval
S relieved
x relief

The answer options for the example above include two different parts of speech: two nouns
(retrieval and relief) and two adjectives (retrieved and relieved). You must pick the correct
part of speech to go in the blank. Additionally, once you choose the correct part of speech,
you have to choose between two words that have different meanings—in this case, retrieved
and relieved. Therefore, you must use the skills you learned for vocabulary and word-form
completions in order to choose the correct answer.

Try a TOEIC Test Question

Read the sentence and answer options. Choose the best answer option to complete the
sentence.

1. The computer did not function correctly because the new software was_____ with the system.
(A) incompatible (C) incomplete
(B) incompatibility (D) incompletely

Grammar Completions
Grammar completions test your knowledge of a number of grammatical concepts, including
the following.

• Parts of speech
• Sentence parts (subject, object, complement, etc.)
• Gerunds
• Infinitives
• Participles
• Verb tense and voice
• Comparative and superlative adjectives
• Conjunctions

Here is an example of a grammar completion sentence.

While the company is based in Brazil, English is _ _ _ by many of the employees.

^ speak
^ speaking
^ spoke
s spoken

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FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

When you encounter a grammar completion sentence, it is helpful to start by asking yourself if
the missing word or phrase is the subject, object, verb, complement, or another sentence part.
This chart shows sentence parts and their functions.

Review of Sentence Parts

Definitions How to Identify Example Sentences
4u-1 the person, • A subject typically comes before a verb. M axine completed the form.
4> place, or thing • Ask yourself, “Who or what is
'S that is doing or [verb + -ing]V’ The answer to this The company picnic was
a
C/5
being something question is the subject. canceled due to rain.

.O
an action or • A verb usually follows a subject. They traveled to Japan for the
U conference. The weather was
state of being
£
beautiful throughout the trip.
the person, • An object typically comes after a verb. Neal opened the package.
Q) place, or thing • Ask yourself, “Who or what is affected
S' that the verb is by the verb?” The answer to this
o
acting upon question is the object.
a word or phrase subject complement: subject complement:
that is necessary • often follows a linking verb Learning English can improve
s
O) in order to • may be an adjective or noun clause that one’s job prospects.
S complete the describes the noun
g meaning of the object complement: object complement:
© subject or object • may follow the direct object of the Gina followed Herman into
U
of a sentence sentence the office.
• can be a noun or adjective form

Missing Subject

» TIP 1 Remember what parts of speech can be the subject of a sentence. In English, the subject of a
sentence can be a noun, pronoun, gerund, or an infinitive.

Parts of Speech That Can Be Subjects Parts of Speech That Can’t Be Subjects
Nouns The employees met in the * The print will have to be
conference room. replaced soon.
Pronouns She submitted her application ^ er SS The printer will have to be
yesterday. replaced soon.
Gerunds Preparing for the meeting was * The wise of the decision was
difficult. questioned.
Infinitives To read the report was his A jectives ^ wisdom o f the decision was
priority. questioned.

If the blank is the subject of the sentence, you can eliminate answer options that are verbs or
adjectives.

TASK Underline the subject in each sentence. Then write the specific part of speech of the subject.
1. Training is often facilitated by real-world examples--------------------------------------------------
2. To finish the project is their goal--------------------------------------------------
3. Ms.Tazi was promoted to regional director last month_____________________________
 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

» TIP 2 Know the subject personal pronouns and when to use them. Personal pronouns replace
proper or common nouns in a sentence. If a personal pronoun is used as a substitute for a noun that is
the subject of a sentence, be sure to use the following forms.

Subject Personal P ronouns

Singular Exam ples
I I went to the store.
you You have keys to the office.
he/she/it She lives on the fourth floor.
P lural Examples
we We are invited to the office party.
you You can sit at this table.
they They forgot to lock the office.

TASK Replace the underlined part of each sentence with the correct subject personal pronoun.
1. Ms. Reynolds called William and Alice into her office_____________________________
2. Eric. Wendv. and I are visiting the corporate office tomorrow_____________________________
3. Mv brother turned on the computer.____________________________

» TIP 3 Understand how gerunds can be used as the subject of a sentence. A gerund is a noun form
that is created by adding -ing to a verb. Talking, reading, and filing are all gerunds. See the following
examples of sentences with gerunds as subjects. Note that subject gerunds always take a singular
verb and are not preceded by an article (a/an or the).
s Talking is not permitted in the library,
x Talking are not oefmittcd in the library.
s Walking is a good way to improve one’s health,
x A walking is a good way to improve one’s health.

TASK Circle one error in each sentence. Then correct the sentence.
1. Jogging are a healthy and fun activity for many people.

2. Attending bimonthly staff meetings are required.

3. Buy new equipment will cost the company a lot of money.

» TIP 4 Know the sentence construction in which infinitives can serve as the subject. To ask, to
e-mail, and to talk are all infinitives. While it is not common, the following sentence construction allows
infinitives to be used as subjects: infinitive + linking verb + complement.
To ask was the best way to find out.
To teach is very fulfilling.
To talk seems impolite.
To succeed can be difficult.

TASK Underline the subjects in the sentences. Place a check mark ( / ) next to each sentence that uses
an infinitive as the subject.
1. □ To walk is the fastest way to get there.
2. □ I gave the letter to Marcia.
3. n T o start the project immediately will be important.

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SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

» TIP 5 Use your knowledge of nouns to recognize the correct usage of participles as adjectives.
Participles are adjectives that use the -ing and -edforms of verbs. Remember that adjectives describe
nouns. See the chart for more information about participles.

Types Form s Usage Exam ples

verb + -ing* • The present participle Ms. Jenkins save an interesting lecture.
+■* V
C .£< modifies a noun that affects
Q
8
+U
-»
.a someone or something.
U
CL, «S
01 • If the subject is active, use Marcos thought the movie was exciting.
the present participle.
regular • The past participle modifies Please call if you are interested in
Participle

verb’*'* + -ed a noun that is affected by purchasing the item.

Past

someone or something.
• If the subject is passive, use Paula was excited about her upcoming
the past participle. vacation.
* The present participle has the same form as the gerund. The difference is that present participles
function as adjectives, while gerunds function as nouns.
**The past participle form varies for irregular verbs.

TASK Choose the correct participle form to complete each sentence.

1. All employees are required to watch the ( training / trained) video.
2. Ruben forgot his ( jogging / jogged) shoes at home.
3. Consumers are ( concerned / concerning) about the rising prices.

Missing Verb

» TIP 1 Make sure that the verb you choose agrees with the subject. In English,verbs must agree
with their subjects. Agreement is determined on the basis of three features: number,tense,and voice.
This chart is a summary of subject-verb agreement.

Subject-Verb A greem ent

Types o f E xplanations Exam ples
A greem ent
N um ber refers to whether the noun and S Mr. Wang is waiting in the lobby.
the corresponding verb are x Mr. Watts are waiting in the lobby.
singular or plural
Tense refers to whether the verb agrees Martha traveled to Belgium last week.
with time markers introduced x Martha travels to Belgium last week.
in the sentence
Voice refers to whether the verb •S They were lectured by their boss about
supports a passive or active tardiness.
interpretation * They lectured by their boss about tardiness.

In most cases, it is easy to figure out if the verb agrees with the subject. However, there are some
instances in which it is hard to determine whether the subject takes a singular or plural verb. This
chart is a guide for special cases of number agreement.

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 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

Special Cases o f Number Agreement

Use a singular verb i f . . . Use a plural verb i f . . . Special Cases
one of these quantifiers is one of these quantifiers is the If the subject and the verb are
the subject: one, somebody, subject: many, several, few, far away from each other in
something, anybody, anyone, both (of the), a number of, a the sentence, they still have to
anything, everybody, everyone, couple of, a variety of. agree.
everything, nobody, no one,
S A number of the employees S The consultant from Savalas
nothing.
are working on that and Associates is waiting in
S Anyone who wants to attend account, the lobby.
the party must contact Ms. x A number ofthe employees
x Tfte consultant from Savalas
Riley by Friday. is working on that account.
and Associates are waiting-hr
* Anyone who want to attend the
the lobby.
party must contact Ms. Riley by
Friday.
the subject is a gerund or noun there are two subjects When two parts of the subject
clause. connected by and. are connected with or, the verb
agrees with the second one.
S Reviewing an application takes S Melissa and Marcus are
him one hour, in agreement about the S Maggie’s employees or Jesse
x Reviewing-cm application take contract, is picking up the materials
him one hour. x Melissa and Marcus is tomorrow.
in agreement about the
x Maggie’s employees or Jesse
contract.
are picking up the materials
tomorrow.

TASK Choose the verb that agrees with the subject.

1. Many of the managers at the company ( is / are) trained using Wilson’s method.
2. A membership card or two forms of identification ( is / are) needed to access the materials.
3. Something they will need to talk about ( is / are) the terms of the contract.
4. The shipping and sales departments ( is / are) meeting today.

» TIP 2 Understand when to use the base form of a verb. The base form of a verb is one that doesn’t
include any special endings to indicate tense, and it is the one you would encounter in a dictionary
entry. Here is a list of situations in which you would use the base form of a verb in a sentence.

When to Use the Base Form of a Verb

Rules Examples
When there is a modal before a verb blank S Ella must call her client,
x Ella must calls her client.
In imperative sentences ■S Go to the store, (no subject)
x 6vz$io-the store.
After that clauses that start with the following S He advised that we leave before dark,
verbs: x He advised that we left before dark.
advise insist recommend
S The store requires that employees give every
demand necessary request
customer a receipt,
essential order require
x Vte store requires that employees gives-every
important propose suggest
customer a receipt.
(continued)

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SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

When to Use the Base Form o f a Verb (continued)

Rules Examples
After some causative verbs in the following S We had Jack finish the report.
construction: x We had Jack finishes the report:
causative verb + object + base verb
S Jeffrey let M ax write the press release.
Causative Verbs: let, make, have, get * Jeffrey let Max writes the press release.
After some verbs of perception in the following ■S They saw Mr. Anaya present at a conference.
construction: x They saw Mr Anaya presented at a
verb of perception + object + base verb conference.
Verbs of Perception: feel, hear, listen, look, notice,
observe, see, smell, taste, touch, watch

TASK Underline one error in each sentence. Then write each sentence with the correct form.
1. Asks for an extra pamphlet.

2 .1 observed Liana trains the new employees.

3. Yolanda let Tim takes Friday off.

Missing Object

» TIP 1 Remember what parts of speech can be an object. The object of a sentence can be a noun,
pronoun, gerund, or infinitive. Remember that all of these function as nouns. Look at the chart for more
information about objects.

Parts of Speech That Can Be Objects Parts of Speech That Can’t Be Objects
Nouns Allison mailed the letter. y erk s x Rupert asked for promote.
Pronouns I talked to him. S Rupert asked fo r a promotion.
Gerunds The position involves typing. , .. . * Stefanie thinks amazinv.
Adjectives ---------
Infinitives Kelly is trying to sleep. Stefanie thinks her job is amazing.

If you see a verb or an adjective as an answer option for a sentence that is missing an object, be sure to
eliminate those choices.

TASK Underline the object in each sentence. Then write the specific part of speech of the object.
1. The company launched a new product last month_____________________________
2. Stacy read the biography_____________________________
3. Mr. Humphrey invited us to the grand opening_____________________________
4. Our client called to complain_____________________________
5. His assistant considered quitting_____________________________

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 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

>> TIP 2 Familiarize yourself with the different usage of pronouns. There are different types of
pronouns, or words that replace nouns in sentences, that can function as the object of a sentence. This
chart has more information about object pronouns.

Types of Pronouns That Can Be Objects

Personal Pronouns Reflexive Pronouns
• Replace a common or proper noun that serves • Used when the object of the sentence is the
as an object in the sentence same as the subject
• May follow a preposition • Reflexive form must agree with the subject
Singular • May go after a preposition
me Singular
you myself
him, her, it yourself
Plural himself, herself itself
us Plural
you ourselves
them yourselves
themselves
Examples: Examples:
Jake gave Wilma the stapler. Jake gave her the I listened to m yself speak in the recording.
stapler.
Alex and Penny taught themselves French.
Jason met Olivia and Peter outside. Jason met
Ted and I went to the meeting by ourselves.
them outside.

TASK Complete each sentence with the correct pronoun. Use the pronoun for the word in parentheses.
1 .1 can’t believe I locked (I)____________________ out of the house for the second time this
week.
2. Dr. Wittles wrote (Laura)________________________ a prescription for her ear infection.
3. We could hear (Paul)________________________ talking about the new contract in the next room.
» TIP 3 Watch out for the fake object it. In the following construction in English, it can serve as an
object despite not receiving an action.
subject + verb + fake object it + complement + infinitive / that clause

Stella finds it difficult to concentrate when it is noisy.

James made it clear that he expected the documents today.
TASK Unscramble the sentences.
1. [found] [that none of the meeting rooms were available.] [it hard to believe] [Mr. Perez]

2. [thinks] [Roberta] [that the company will hire new employees soon.] [it unlikely]

3. [Kayla’s positive attitude] [it easy] [to see why people love to work with her.] [makes]

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SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

Missing Complement

» TIP 1 Learn the different types of complements and their uses. A complement is a word or phrase
that provides information that is necessary in order to understand the meaning of the subject or object.
This chart gives information about subject and object complements.

Types of How They Are Used Examples

Complements
Subject • Come after a linking verb Mr. Williams is planning to leave by
Complements • Give more information about the subject one o’clock.
• May be a noun, gerund, infinitive,
Anne seems unsure about what to do.
adjective, or participle
Object • Give more information about the object Mr. Quinn expects Jackie to meet
Complements • May be a noun, gerund, infinitive, with the clients today.
adjective, or participle
They held a teleconference in order to
include the international managers.

TASK Decide whether the underlined part of each sentence is a subject or an object complement.
1. The negotiations have finally ended.
a. subject complement
b. object complement
2. The company’s primary concern is to keep its clients happy.
a. subject complement
b. object complement
3. The receptionist called Ms. Wendell to remind her about her appointment.
a. subject complement
b. object complement

Missing Adjective or Preposition

» TIP 1 Memorize common verb-preposition collocations. Collocations are words that often occur
together. Unfortunately, there are no rules for how collocations are formed, so you must take time
before the test to study common verb-preposition collocations. This chart shows some common
collocations.
Common Collocations
about at fo r in
ask about arrive at admire for arrive in
care about smile at ask for believe in
complain about stare at excuse for participate in
dream about contact at forgive for succeed in
worry about e-mail at search for decline in
of on to with
accuse o f comment on apply to argue with
consist of concentrate on belong to compare with
get rid of count on contribute to discuss with
remind of decide on explain to help with
take care of insist on respond to provide with

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 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

TASK Use the words in the box to complete the sentences.

for of to with

1. My assistant will take care__________ the arrangements.

2. The prospective employee had three days to respond____________the job offer.
3. We helped him search___________the keys.
4. The representative provided m e__________ a sales brochure.

» TIP 2 Know the comparative and superlative forms of adjectives. Comparatives and superlatives
are forms of adjectives that allow comparisons of two or more nouns. Comparatives are used to
compare two nouns, while superlatives express that a noun has the highest or lowest degree of
something.

This job is harder than the one I had before, (comparative)

Harriet is the tallest in her family, (superlative)

This chart shows rules for forming comparatives and superlatives.

How to Form Comparatives and Superlatives

Comparatives Superlatives Examples
For adjectives with one syllable add -er add -est cold / colder / coldest
For adjectives with two syllables change -y to -i change -y to -i lazy / lazier / laziest
that end in -y and add -er and add -est
For adjectives with two syllables add more add most awkward / more awkward /
that do not end in -y most awkward
For adjectives with three or more add more add most wonderful / more wonderful
syllables / most wonderful
Irregular adjectives bad / worse / worst
good / better / best
little / less / least

TASK Write the correct comparative or superlative adjective in each blank. Use the word in
parentheses.
1. Samuel’s speech was slightly (short)______ _____ than the speech that followed.
2. The company has the (good)____________________reputation in the industry.
3. Maggie has the (large)____________________office in the building.
4. Dr. Bevel made one of the (amazing)___________________ discoveries of the decade.
5. He couldn’t be (happy)____________________to help you with the problem.

Try a TOEIC Test Question

Read the sentence and answer options. Choose the best answer option to complete the
sentence.

1. Hiring decisions are made by qualified professionals who are_____ to seek out employees
who will fit in with the company.
(A) train (C) trained
(B) trains (D) training

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SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

PROGRESSIVE PRACTICE: 1 Get Ready

Choose the best answer to complete each sentence. Then check your answers in the Answer Analysis boxes.
Read the explanations and note why each answer option is correct or incorrect. This will help you learn to identify
correct and incorrect answer options.

1. Our company usually_______a party for the entire staff at the end of the year.
(A) give
(B) gives
(C) have given
(D) were giving

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
X (A) This verb does not agree with the subject.
✓ (B) This verb agrees with the third person singular subject “company.”
X (C) This verb does not agree with the subject, and the tense is incorrect. The sentence is about an action that usually happens, so
it requires simple present tense.
X (D) This verb does not agree with the subject, and the tense is incorrect.

2. If we walk_______, we can get to the station before the train leaves.

(A) quickness
(B) quicken
(C) quickly
(D) quick

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
X (A) This is a noun where an adverb is needed.
X (B) This is a verb where an adverb is needed.
✓ (C) This is an adverb of manner that modifies the verb “walk.”
X (D) This is an adjective where an adverb is needed.

3. Mr. Simms was late for work because_______car broke down.

(A) his
(B) he’s
(C) him
(D) he

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
✓ (A) “His” is a possessive adjective that refers to a man. In this sentence, it refers to the fact that the car belongs to Mr.
Simms.
X (B) This is a contraction for “he is.”
X (C) This is an object pronoun.
X (D) This is a subject pronoun.

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 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

4. We expect______ this project before the end of the month.

(A) finish
(B) finishing
(C) to finish
(D) will finish

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
X (A) This is the base form of the verb.
X (B) This is a gerund.
✓ (C) The main verb “expect” is followed by an infinitive verb.
X (D) This is the future form of the verb.

5 .1 always carry an extra set of keys___ my coat pocket.

(A) for
(B) to
(C) on
(D) in

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
X (A) “For” in this sentence would mean that the keys are for opening the pocket, which doesn’t make sense.
X (B) “To” means “in the direction of,” which doesn’t make sense in this context.
X (C) “On” means “on top of,” which is not a logical meaning for this sentence.
✓ (D) “In” means “inside.” The keys are inside the pocket.

6. Sarah won the tennis competition last week, and they gave her a fifty-dollar gift certificate as her_______
(A) price
(B) prize
(C) pride
(D) pries

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
X (A) “Price” refers to the cost of something. It looks similar to the correct answer, but the meaning does not fit the context.
✓ (B) A “prize” is something awarded for winning a competition.
X (C) “Pride” is the noun form of “proud.” It looks similar to the correct answer, but the meaning does not fit the context.
X (D) “Pries” is the third person singular form of “pry,” a verb with several meanings, none of which fit the context.

7. Get_______ the bus at Main Street and then walk two blocks north to our office.
(A) in
(B) up
(C) on
(D) off

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SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
X (A) “Get in” refers to entering a car or similar vehicle, so it does not fit this context.
X (B) “Get up” means “to arise,” so it does not fit this context.
X (C) “Get on” refers to boarding a bus, train, or airplane, so it does not fit this context.
✓ (D) The phrasal verb “get off” means to exit a bus, train, or airplane.

8. W e_______ work on the project after tomorrow’s meeting.

(A) will start
(B) starting
(C) have started
(D) started

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
✓ (A) The future form of the verb is required because the action will take place “after tomorrow.”
X (B) This is part of a present continuous verb that can be used for future meaning, but the auxiliary is missing.
X (C) This is a present perfect verb, which cannot be used to refer to a future action.
X (D) This is a past tense verb and refers to a past action.

9. We are looking for a new office that is ______than our current one.
(A)large
(B) largely
(C) larger
(D)largest

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
X (A) This is the adjective without a comparative ending.
X (B) This is an adverb.
✓ (C) This sentence compares two offices—the new one and the current one. The word “than” is a cue that a comparative
adjective is needed.
X (D) This is the superlative form of the adjective.

10. The office is closed today_______ it is a holiday.

(A) although
(B)because
(C) after
(D) but

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
X (A) “Although” introduces a contradiction. There is no contradictory situation here.
✓ (B) “Because” introduces a reason. The holiday is the reason the office is closed.
X (C) “After” introduces a time clause.
X (D) “But” introduces a contradiction. There is no contradictory situation here.

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 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

PROGRESSIVE PRACTICE: | Get Set

Answer the question. Then read the explanations in the Answer Analysis box. Write the letter of each answer
option next to the reason why it is correct or incorrect. This will help you learn to identify incorrect answer options.

1. Prices will continue to _______, and everything will become more expensive.
(A) up
(B) high
(C) rise
(D) above

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
_____ X This is an adjective.
_____ / This is a verb. The meaning of the verb is “to go up.”
_____ X This can be either a preposition or an adverb.
_____ X This can also be either a preposition or an adverb.

2. If you walk _______ the lobby, you will see the elevators on the other side.
(A) through
(B) between
(C)under
(D) on

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
_____ X This means “to have one on each side.”
_____ X This means “beneath.”
_____ X This means “on top of.”
_____ / This means “to go from one end to the other.”

3------------- every day is the best way to improve your health.

(A) Exercise
(B) To exercise
(C) Must exercise
(D) Exercising

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
-------- X This is a modal plus a main verb and cannot be used without a subject.
_____ X This is an infinitive verb.
_____ / This is a gerund used as the subject of the sentence.
_____ X This is the base form of the verb.

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SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

4. You can’t spend all day trying to make up your mind; it’s better to be_______
(A) decide
(B) decision
(C) decisive
(D) decisively

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
_____ ✓ This is an adjective following the linking verb “be” and describing the person addressed.
_____ X This is a verb.
_____ X This is an adverb.
_____ X This is a noun.

5. Those snacks on the table_______ for this afternoon’s staff meeting.

(A) is
(B) are
(C) has
(D) was

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
_____ X This is the past tense third person singular form of “be.”
_____ X This is the third person singular form of “have.”
_____ X This is the third person singular form of “be.”
_____ / This plural verb agrees with the plural subject “snacks.”

6. The closing of the factory had a bad_______on the local economy.

(A) effect
(B) affect
(C) deflect
(D) perfect

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
_____ X This is an adjective that means “ideal.”
_____ / This is a noun that means “result” or “consequence.”
_____ X The meaning of this word is similar to the correct answer, but it is a verb, not a noun.
_____ X This is a verb that means “to repel.”

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 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

7_______ the document carefully before you sign it.

(A) Read
(B) To read
(C) Reading
(D) Should read

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
_____ / This is an imperative verb used to give advice or instructions.
_____ X This is a modal plus verb. It needs a subject.
_____ X This is an infinitive verb form. It cannot be the subject in this case, because there is no main verb.
_____X This is a gerund. It cannot be used as the subject in this case, because there is no main verb.

8. If nobody answers the phone, please call______ later.

(A) on
(B) up
(C) back
(D) off

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
_____X This forms a phrasal verb meaning “to make a phone call.”
_____/ This forms a phrasal verb meaning “to call again.”
_____ X This forms a phrasal verb meaning “to cancel.”
_____X This forms a phrasal verb meaning “to visit.”

9 .1will be out of town next week,__ ____ I won’t be able to attend the meeting.
(A) though
(B) so
(C) since
(D) or

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
_____ X This introduces a contradiction.
_____X This introduces a reason.
_____X This introduces a choice.
_____ / This introduces a result.

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SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

10. Several clients are visiting from out of town, and I asked_______to join us for dinner tonight.
(A) it
(B) him
(C)they
(D) them

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
_____ ✓ This is a third person plural object pronoun. It follows the main verb of the clause and refers to “clients.”
_____ X This is a third person singular pronoun and would refer to a thing, not to people.
_____ X This is a third person plural pronoun, but it is a subject pronoun, not an object pronoun.
_____ X This is a singular, not a plural, pronoun. It refers to one man.

11. We don’t have a large budget for this trip, so we really shouldn’t plan to stay in _______ expensive hotel.
(A) more
(B) most
(C) mostly
(D) the most

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
_____ X This is an adverb where an adjective is needed.
_____ ✓ Thisisa superlative adjective describing one noun (“hotel”) out of agroup (all the hotels in the area).
_____ X This is used for comparative, not superlative, adjectives.
_____ X This is missing the word “the,” which is needed as part of the superlative adjective.

12. Some people might_______at the meeting late, so let’s wait before we close the door.
(A) to arrive
(B) arrive
(C) arriving
(D) will arrive

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
_____ X This is a gerund or present participle.
_____ X This is an infinitive form.
_____ X This is another modal plus verb. The sentence already has one modal.
_____ / A modal is followed by the base form of the verb.

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 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

13. Mr. Kim speaks French fluently because he_______in France for so many years.
(A) will live
(B) is living
(C) lived
(D) lives

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
-------- / This is simple past tense. We know he lived in France in the past. We don’t know if he still lives there, so simple past
fits the sentence.
_____ / This is the future form of the verb. It doesn’t fit the context.
-------- X This is the present continuous form of the verb. It doesn’t fit with the prepositional phrase “for so many years.”
_____ / This is the simple present form of the verb. It doesn’t fit the context.

14. One of the most important characteristics of a good manager is that she takes_______for her own mistakes.
(A) response
(B) responsible
(C) responsibly
(D) responsibility

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
_____ X This is an adjective.
_____/ This is a noun. It is the object of the verb “takes.”
_____ / This is an adverb.
_____ / This is a noun, but it has the wrong meaning for this context. It means “answer” or “reaction.”

15. We can send you an application by mail,_______you can download one from our Website.
(A) or
(B) so
(C) since
(D) when

ANSWER ANALYSIS ►
_____ X This introduces a time clause.
_____X This introduces a result.
_____ / This indicates a choice between two actions.
_____ X This introduces a cause or reason.

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 SKILLS FOR THE TOEIC® TEST: LISTENING AND READING

PROGRESSIVE PRACTICE: Go for the TOEIC® Test

TOEIC® TEST PRACTICE

Directions: Each sentence is missing a word or phrase. Four possible answer options are shown. Choose
the best answer option and mark the corresponding letter on your answer sheet.

1. The director is meeting with investors, as the company 7. It is very important to sign the application form
would like to _______ operations. you submit it to the Human Resources Office.
(A) expend (A) after
(B)expand (B) before
(C)expanse (C) as soon as
(D) expense (D) until

2. Ms. Brown is a gifted speaker, and everybody_______ 8. Ms. Jackson is interested in reading the marketing
listening to her talks. report and asked us to send_______ a copy.
(A) are enjoying (A) she
(B) have enjoyed (B) herself
(C) enjoys (C) hers
(D) enjoy (D) her

3. The contractor will start the work as soon as we 9. All the employees working in this department_______
the necessary forms. a formal evaluation at the end of the year.
(A) will sign (A) has received
(B) signing (B) is receiving
(C) signed (C) receives
(D) sign (D) receive

4________more than the amount that is budgeted for this 10. Our office is conveniently located directly across the
project. street_______ the subway station.
(A) Don’t spend (A) from
(B) Not spend (B) of
(C) Doesn’t spend (C) to
(D) Won’t spend (D) on

5. It is_______to see sales drop somewhat at this time 11. We have to pay taxes when w e _______ parts from
of year. overseas to use in manufacturing our products.
(A) type (A) report
(B) typify (B) import
(C) typical (C) deport
(D) typically (D) export

6. We don’t expect a large number of people to show 12. There aren’t _______ chairs for the meeting, so we will
for the afternoon meeting. have to get some from the other room.
(A) up (A) much
(B) in (B) number
(C) out (C)enough
(D) off (D) quantity

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 READING PART 5: INCOMPLETE SENTENCES

13. You really should_______a lawyer before you sign any 19. Shirley is one of our most_______staff members; we
of those documents. can count on her for just about anything.
(A) consult (A) reluctant
(B) to consult (B) relieved
(C) consulting (C) relocated
(D) consultation (D) reliable

14. We_______interview most of the job applicants next

week. 20. If it _ _ ____ next weekend, we will have to cancel our
plans for going to the beach.
(A) are going to
(A) rains
(B) going to
(B) raining
(C) are
(C) will rain
(D) to
(D) has rained
15. We will probably have to ask for an _______because it
looks like we won’t be able to meet the deadline.
(A) extent
(B) extend
(C) extensive
(D) extension

16________we made our travel plans at the last minute,

we were still able to get a good deal on the tickets.
(A) Since
(B) Despite
(C) Although
(D) Because

17. This printer cost much less than our other printers, but
it works just_______
(A) well
(B) good
(C) as well
(D) as good

18. We are considering__ ____ several temporary

employees to help us with the extra workload.
(A) hire
(B) hiring
(C) to hire
(D) might hire

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