LSAT 118 | Section 1 | Logical Reasoning: Q9

LR Question 9 Explanation

QUESTION TEXT: The use of phrases like “as so-and-so said” or …

QUESTION TYPE: Principle – Application

ANALYSIS: The principle is essentially saying:

1. People often use quotes to describe a scenario.
2. It is appropriate when the scenario that came before the quote illustrates the quote.
3. They should not be used when the scenario that came before is actually a counterexample to the quote.

We want an answer that gives us an example of the third point above, where it’s used wrongly.

___________

1. The more Fatima learned, the more she realized how much she didn’t know. That scenario illustrates the quote perfectly.
2. Harold repeatedly imposed on his friends for money. The scenario is being presented as an example of selfish behavior, so it works.
3. Roger is very frugal. The quote is used for people who strongly value saving money, so this also works.
4. Sharon’s husband is allergic to cats, but still came with her to cat shows because he cares about her. This illustrates the idea that people in close relationships sometimes participate in each other’s interests, which fits well with the quote.
5. CORRECT. In the scenario, Raoul broke his leg during his ski trip and spent two weeks in the hospital. The quote says “All’s well that ends well.” But the trip didn’t end well. The scenario is actually a counterexample to the quote, so the quote is misused.