Which word refers to money that a government gives a group to help it?

• A. Sum
• B. Summary
• C. Subsidy
• D. Superficial

Answer: (C)

This item tests understanding of a word for financial aid provided by the government to help a group. A subsidy is exactly that: money or other support given by the government to support a group, industry, or activity, often to promote a policy goal or make goods and services more affordable. For example, subsidies might help farmers keep prices stable or encourage the use of renewable energy.

The other words don’t fit this sense. Sum simply means a total amount of money, not the act of government support. Summary refers to a brief restatement of main points, not money. Superficial describes something shallow or lacking depth, not financial aid.