Question

The political opinion piece in the newspaper was a __________ critique of the government's foreign policy, aiming to __________ a strong public reaction.

• A. forthright – elicit
• B. illicit - elicit
• C. illicit - illicit
• D. explicit - elicit

Hint:

In fill-in-the-blank questions, first eliminate options based on words that clearly don't fit the context. Here, 'illicit' (illegal) is a poor fit for a newspaper critique, which helps narrow down the choices quickly.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question requires us to choose the most appropriate pair of words to fill in the blanks to make the sentence grammatically and contextually correct.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the meaning of the words in the options:

Forthright: Direct and outspoken; straightforward and honest.
Illicit: Forbidden by law, rules, or custom; illegal.
Explicit: Stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for doubt.
Elicit: To evoke or draw out a response, answer, or fact from someone. Analyzing the first blank: The sentence describes a "critique" in a newspaper. A critique can be direct or clearly stated. Therefore, "forthright" or "explicit" would fit. "Illicit" means illegal, which does not make sense for a critique published in a newspaper. This eliminates options (B) and (C).
Analyzing the second blank: The sentence says the piece was "aiming to __________ a strong public reaction." The goal is to bring about or provoke a reaction. The word "elicit," which means to draw out a response, fits perfectly here. The word "illicit" in option (C) is incorrect in this context.
Comparing the remaining options (A) and (D):
Both options have the correct second word, "elicit".

(A) forthright – elicit: A "forthright critique" means a direct and honest critique. This fits the context of a political opinion piece very well.
(D) explicit - elicit: An "explicit critique" means a detailed and clear critique. This is also a plausible option. However, "forthright" better captures the tone of an opinion piece, which is often characterized by being outspoken and direct. Therefore, "forthright" is the most fitting word for the first blank.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The best pair of words is "forthright" and "elicit". The sentence reads: "The political opinion piece in the newspaper was a forthright critique of the government's foreign policy, aiming to elicit a strong public reaction."