. The government is _____ and will take the necessary steps to maintain security and stability.

   A. on the alert    B. out of control

   C. on guard        D. in vain

. Bill is not a fast runner and he doesn't have a chance of winning the marathon, but he will _____ the race even if he finishes last.

A. keep on    B. keep to    C. stick out    D. stick to

. Mary had taken _____ to see that her guests had everything that they could possibly want.

   A. efforts    B. pains    C. attempts    D. endeavors

The farmers were more anxious for rain than the people in the city because they had more _____.

A. at length    B. at last    C. at stake    D. at ease

 It was necessary to _____ the factory building as the company was doing more and more business.

   A. extend    B. increase    C. lengthen    D. magnify

With sufficient scientific information a manned trip to Mars should be _____.

A. obtainable B. potential C. considerable D. feasible

. He _____ his engagement just before the wedding.

   A. broke out    B. broke away from

   C. broke off    D. broke up

. Driving a car without insurance can have _____ consequences.

        A. uncertain                 B. disastrous                  C. potential                  D. unworthy

. My house is the only brick one on the street. It _____ and you can't miss it.

        A. stands up                  B. looks out                  C. sticks out                  D. wipes out

They have held several meetings to _____ next year's production plans.

   A. set down                    B. make out            C. work up    D. draw up