Question

Choose the word that best fits the blank in the sentence below: "Despite his remarks, the audience found his ideas intriguing and thought-provoking."

• A. laudatory
• B. derisive
• C. euphemistic
• D. succinct

Hint:

Look for contrast clues like "despite" to choose the word that provides logical opposition in context.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

To complete the sentence, a word is needed that characterizes the speaker's remarks as contrary to the audience's favorable response to his concepts. Analysis of the options follows:

• Laudatory: Denotes praise. Laudatory remarks would correspond with a positive audience reaction, thus failing to provide the required contrast.
• Derisive: Signifies contempt or mockery. Derisive remarks would contrast with an audience finding the ideas engaging and stimulating, fulfilling the requirement for opposing viewpoints.
• Euphemistic: Involves using softened or indirect language for harsher terms. Euphemistic remarks would not inherently contrast with an intrigued audience.
• Succinct: Means brief and clear. Succinctness does not inherently create a contrast with an audience finding ideas interesting.

Based on these definitions, derisive is the appropriate term, as it introduces a contrasting perspective fitting the sentence's context.