Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

If something is described as "primitive," how is it generally understood?

1. Modern

2. Advanced

3. Basic

4. Complex

The correct answer is: Basic

When something is described as "primitive," it is generally understood to refer to a state that is basic or fundamental. This term often implies an original or early stage of development that lacks the sophistication or refinement found in later or more developed iterations. In many contexts, primitive can denote simplicity, essential characteristics, or foundational aspects that have not been enhanced or complicated by modern advancements or technologies. For example, in anthropology, primitive societies might be characterized by their subsistence methods and social structures, reflecting early human organization and lifestyle. Therefore, the association with being basic or essential aligns with the understanding of the term "primitive."