Question

The artist's latest exhibition was ________ for its bold use of color and form, yet it was ________ by some for its lack of thematic coherence.

• A. appreciated
• B. celebrated
• C. derided
• D. condemned
• E. acclaimed
• F. dismissed

Hint:

Pay close attention to conjunctions like “yet,” “but,” or “however,” as they often indicate the need for opposite or contrasting words to complete a sentence logically.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B, C

This sentence clearly presents two contrasting reactions to the artist’s latest exhibition, which is signaled by the word \textit{“yet.”} The word “yet” functions as a conjunction indicating contrast or opposition between two ideas. Thus, the two blanks should be filled with words that express opposing opinions about the exhibition.
First blank (Positive Reaction):
The exhibition is described as having a bold use of color and form, which generally implies something innovative, creative, and worthy of admiration. This positive description guides us to select words that show praise or admiration.
- “Celebrated” ((B) means widely praised or honored, which fits well with recognizing the artist’s bold creativity.
- Other positive Option include “acclaimed” (E) and “appreciated” ((A), both of which convey approval, but “celebrated” often carries a stronger sense of public or critical recognition and fits better in this context.
Second blank (Negative Reaction):
Following the word “yet,” the sentence points out a flaw: lack of thematic coherence. This invites a contrasting negative reaction, meaning the exhibition was criticized or not well-received by some.
- “Derided” ((C) means mocked or ridiculed, indicating strong criticism, which is appropriate here.
- “Condemned” ((D) is also negative but is generally stronger and implies moral or ethical disapproval, which may be too severe for a critique of artistic coherence.
- “Dismissed” (F) means rejected or ignored but doesn’t convey as strong or harsh a criticism as “derided.”
Why other Option are less suitable:
- “Appreciated” ((A) is somewhat mild and lacks the strong positive connotation that “celebrated” carries.
- “Acclaimed” (E) is close in meaning to “celebrated” but “celebrated” better highlights the widespread recognition.
- “Condemned” ((D) is too harsh and usually relates to moral judgment, not fitting for the critique mentioned.
- “Dismissed” (F) suggests ignoring rather than actively criticizing.
Summary:
- The first blank requires a positive, approving word describing praise for bold artistic choices.
- The second blank requires a negative word describing criticism for a lack of thematic unity.
The best contrasting pair is therefore:

(B) celebrated — expressing praise for boldness, creativity, and innovation.

(C) derided — expressing sharp criticism for thematic incoherence.
This pairing perfectly captures the mixed critical reception described in the sentence.