SAT OwlQuestion bank / Words in Context
Built on a narrow ridge above the valley, the medieval castle of Brandeck commanded a view of every road leading into the region. Its guards could spot an approaching army hours before it arrived, giving the lord of the castle plenty of time to prepare.
As used in the text, what does the word "commanded" most nearly mean?
ordered
led
demanded
offered
Show answer and explanation
Answer: D
From its high ridge, the castle had a view of every road, which let guards see armies coming. "Commanded" here means offered or had that view.
Choice A is the most common meaning of "commanded," but a castle can't give orders; the word describes the view its position gave.
Why the other choices are wrong
- A. "Ordered" means giving instructions, which a castle can't do. The castle simply had a wide view.
- B. "Led" suggests directing people, which doesn't fit a castle's position on a ridge.
- C. "Demanded" means insisted on, but the castle is described as having a view, not requiring one.
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