Understanding the Meaning of "Some" + "Some" Together

When preparing for the LSAT, you’ll encounter various phrases that challenge your critical thinking skills. One such phrase is the intriguing “Some” + “Some.” Sounds simple enough, right? But let’s break it down.

So, what does “Some” + “Some” really indicate? Well, when you see this double use of “Some” in a question, it’s not just repeating itself for fun. Instead, it’s merging two quantities into a significant turnout. Essentially, it’s saying “some or most.” Think about it. This combination implies that within a particular group or scenario, a noteworthy portion—or possibly a majority—fits the description provided.

For instance, if you read, “Some students who take the LSAT find it challenging, and some believe it’s manageable,” it suggests that a considerable number of those students fall into one of these two camps. It nudges you to consider the idea that a significant majority is grappling with this test, which is an important insight for any student!

Now, let’s clarify the other answer options for a moment. You might come across options that sound plausible but aren’t quite on point. Take, for example, “Instill by persistent instruction.” Now, this sounds educational, doesn’t it? But it has nothing to do with what “Some” + “Some” conveys. Likewise, “irritable, peevish, or impatient” might be something occasionally experienced during those long study sessions (trust me, we’ve been there!), but it doesn’t translate to our phrase, nor does “come before.”

It's easy to see how you'd think options B, C, and D could fit somewhere in your study materials. After all, studying is a lot about making connections and finding relationships among words, right? But this particular phrase? It’s all about understanding that when you put two “Some”s together, you’re thinking about a blend that signifies “some or most.”

Now, while none of us wants to encounter overwhelming stress and frustration when prepping for the LSAT, realizing these nuances can be a game-changer. Why? Because these seemingly small distinctions can lead to better comprehension and, ultimately, higher scores. Digging deeper into how phrases convey meaning gives you the tools to answer questions with confidence.

Remember, it’s not just about memorizing definitions; it’s about grasping the connections and implications behind them. So, the next time you see “Some” + “Some,” you’ll know that this isn’t just a redundancy. It’s an invitation to explore the significant share of the population being referenced, guiding you toward more informed decisions in the exam. And that’s a step in the right direction.

Before you log off, take this knowledge with you. Every detail, every nuance counts when you’re gearing up for the LSAT. So, keep studying, stay curious about how language works in context, and you'll find yourself better prepared to tackle that test head-on!