Question

What is a more concrete or specific phrase to replace the underlined phrase?

Answer 1

Answer:

B

Explanation:

Let's not make it complicated. The original text used stuff about, making it less informal and casual. Although the question is looking for a more concrete phrase, A and D doesn't look like a better way to write it.

Maybe consider C but it's highly likely its B.

Answer 2

Answer:

C

Explanation:

"Stuff about" is a vague term, and by concrete phrase it is meant that we describe what exactly Mary has to learn.

Consider option A: History of.

Learning the history of a sport will not help one in any way to actually play the game. So, A is incorrect.

Option B: Things about

"things about" again is a vague term and does not describe which things are to be learnt. Throw this option out the window.

Option D: Past and current players.

Thus also won't help one to play the game and know the rules.

Thus, C is the correct choice.