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

He hated the war so much that he decided to leave the army _____.

   A. for long    B. once in a while

   C. for good    D. once upon a time

He has recently _____ chess to provide himself with some relaxation.

A. taken on   B. taken up    C. held on    D. held up

This album is _____ as it was the only one ever signed by the President.

   A. unusual    B. unique    C. rare    D. special

We made plans for a visit but _____ difficulties with the car prevented it.

   A. consequent     B. subordinate

C. substantial    D. subsequent

It was _____ by the railway board that the cost of rail fares would be increased by ten percent.

A. noticed    B. stated    C. suggested    D. noted

Jack almost fell off the cliff, but managed to _____ until help came.

A. keep on    B. catch on    C. count on     D. hang on

When I took his temperature, it was two degrees above _____.

A. average    B. ordinary    C. regular    D. normal

Roses are quite _____ flowers in English gardens.

   A. ordinary    B. common    C. usual    D. general

Despite their good service, most inns are less costly than hotels of _____ standards.

A. equivalent    B. uniform    C. alike    D. likely