People of intelligence and achievement can nonetheless be so ------ and lacking in ------ that they gamble their reputations by breaking the law to further their own ends.
Show Hint
- devious...propensity
- culpable...prosperity
- obsequious...deference
- truculent... independence
- greedy... integrity
The Correct Option is
Solution and Explanation
The sentence uses the word "nonetheless" to introduce a contrast: despite being intelligent and accomplished, people can possess negative traits that lead them to commit illegal acts for personal gain. The two blanks must identify these character flaws.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The first blank must describe a negative quality that would motivate someone to "further their own ends" illegally. The second blank must describe a positive quality that they are "lacking in".
The phrase "breaking the law to further their own ends" strongly suggests motives like greed or ambition, and a lack of moral principles.
Let's analyze the options:
- (A) devious...propensity: "Devious" (cunning) fits, but "lacking in propensity" (lacking in a natural tendency) is awkward and doesn't fit the context.
- (B) culpable...prosperity: "Culpable" (deserving blame) is a result of their actions, not the cause. "Lacking in prosperity" (wealth) could be a motive, but doesn't fit grammatically as a quality.
- (C) obsequious...deference: Being "obsequious" (overly obedient) and "lacking in deference" (respect) is contradictory.
- (D) truculent... independence: Being "truculent" (aggressive) and "lacking in independence" doesn't directly connect to the specific act of illegal self-furtherment.
- (E) greedy... integrity: This pair fits perfectly. Being so "greedy" (having an excessive desire for wealth) and "lacking in integrity" (the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles) provides a clear and logical explanation for why someone would break the law for personal gain.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The sentence correctly describes that intelligent people can be so "greedy" and lacking in "integrity" that they risk everything for their own benefit.
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