Find a fair basis for comparison
Read for meaning first. Select a highlighted word if you want a closer look.
A college theater group compared two costume-rental offers that were comparable in duration, included services, and the number of outfits provided. The wardrobe coordinator used a table to differentiate the offers, noting that only one included repairs during the rental period. She also identified two distinct responsibilities: selecting costumes for the production and arranging their return. Similarity made a comparison useful, but it did not make the offers identical or erase the separate tasks the group needed to manage.
A third offer was less comparable because it covered only one evening and required the group to provide its own cleaning service. To differentiate the original pair fairly, the coordinator listed the same features for both instead of highlighting benefits for only her preferred supplier. The distinct responsibilities remained assigned to different helpers, even when they discussed the same garments. This kept the comparison focused on relevant similarities and differences while making clear who would carry out each part of the agreement.
Before you move on
Look away from the passage. Can you explain each focus word in your own words?
Original fictional passages for vocabulary practice.