Words in Context

SAT Reading and Writing· difficulty 3/5

The general's order was firm but humane. Soldiers were to spare civilians wherever possible, and any officer who interpreted the instructions otherwise would answer for it personally.

As used in the text, what does the word "spare" most nearly mean?

  • A

    lean and unadorned

  • B

    refrain from harming

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  • C

    give up time for

  • D

    leave with extra

Explanation

Soldiers are to refrain from harming civilians; "spare" means to leave unharmed, not the "extra," "give time," or "stripped down" senses.

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