Question

Directions: Fill in the blanks with the words that best fit the meaning of the sentence as a whole.
If a nation is unable to come to ______ on interpreting its own past, it will be unable to ______ its national interests.

• A. conclusion … plan
• B. terms … design
• C. decision … comprehend
• D. consensus … formulate
• E. consolidation … meet

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To solve this question, we need to understand the context and meaning of the sentence, as well as the meanings of the words provided in the options.

The sentence we need to complete is:

"If a nation is unable to come to ______ on interpreting its own past, it will be unable to ______ its national interests."

First, let's analyze the structure of the sentence:

1. The first blank requires a word that refers to some form of agreement or decision-making regarding the interpretation of a nation's past.
2. The second blank needs a word that implies the ability to strategize or develop something, specifically regarding national interests.

Now, let's examine the provided options:

1. Option 1: conclusion … plan
   • "Conclusion" does not aptly signify agreement, as it is more about finalizing a decision rather than coming to a shared understanding.
   • "Plan" could fit the second blank, but without the right fit for the first blank, this option is not ideal.
2. Option 2: terms … design
   • "Terms" generally refers to specific conditions or expressions, not a collective understanding or agreement.
   • "Design" might fit a creative or structural context for national interests, but again, the first word does not fit well.
3. Option 3: decision … comprehend
   • "Decision" is similar to conclusion, not inherently an agreement among different parties.
   • "Comprehend" means to understand, which doesn't align with the action-oriented requirement of 'national interests'.
4. Option 4: consensus … formulate
   • "Consensus" means a general agreement, which fits perfectly as it signifies a collective interpretation of a nation's past.
   • "Formulate" means to create or devise methodically, which aligns with developing national interests. Thus, this option aligns perfectly with both blanks.
5. Option 5: consolidation … meet
   • "Consolidation" involves combining into a whole but does not express reaching an agreement.
   • "Meet" is too vague and does not fit the developmental aspect needed for 'formulating' national interests.

Based on the logical analysis, Option 4: consensus … formulate is the correct answer.

Explanation: "Consensus" refers to a general agreement which fits the context of agreeing on interpreting the past. "Formulate" means to create a strategy or plan for national interests, complementing the action-oriented nature of the second clause.