Our brains respond to language expressing facts differently than they do to words conveying possibility, scientists at New York University have recently found. Their work offers new insights into the impact word choice has on how we【C1】_____between statements expressing what is real versus what is merely possible. The researchers assert their findings are important because we are presented with false information all the time. Some of this is【C2】__, as is the case with deceptive advertisements, but the problem is【C3】__by individuals who believe they are sharing correct information. Thus, it is more important than ever to separate the factual from the possible or merely【C4】__in how we communicate. This is especially true as the study makes clear that information presented as fact 【C5】__special responses in our brains, which are distinct from when we process the same content with clear indicators of【C6】_____.

In their new study, the scientists intended to【C7】_____how the brain computes possibilities as expressed by words such as “may,” “might,” and “if.” The researchers compared brain responses to statements expressing factual【C8】__and those expressing possibility. “There is a monster under my bed” exemplifies a factual statement. “I will stay home,” is also factual. This is opposed to statements that express possibility, like “There might be a monster under my bed,” or “If it rains, I will stay home.” The results of the study showed that factual language【C9】__a rapid increase in brain activity, with the brain responding more powerfully and showing more engagement with factual phrases compared to those communicating possibility. Thus, facts rule when it comes to the brain. Brain regions involved in processing【C10】_____rapidly distinguish facts from possibilities. Further, these regions respond in a much more robust fashion to factual statements.

A) activated E) differentiate I) manuscript M) speculative

B) aggravated F) discourse J) marvels N) unanimous

C) ascertain G) evokes K) remnants O) uncertainty

D) deliberate H) inhibit L) scenarios

【C1】