Armed Forces Classification Test (AFCT) English Practice Test

What does "latent" describe in a quality or state?

1. Existing but developed openly

2. Existing but not yet developed or concealed

3. Ever-present and obvious

4. Visibly dominant and apparent

The correct answer is: Existing but not yet developed or concealed

The term "latent" refers to something that exists but has not yet developed or is hidden from view. In various contexts, such as psychology or biology, latent qualities or states are those that have potential but are not yet manifested. Therefore, the correct choice captures the essence of latent by emphasizing the characteristics of being present but not fully realized or visible. For instance, in psychology, latent traits might indicate potential abilities or tendencies that have not yet emerged in behavior. In a medical context, latent infections can occur in the body without producing any symptoms until activated. This aligns perfectly with the definition as it highlights the concealed or undeveloped nature of the latent state. The other choices do not accurately describe the notion of being latent. They imply characteristics that are either fully developed, obvious, or dominant, which contradicts the idea of something that is quietly present, awaiting development or recognition.