In the following passage some of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and select the correct answer for the given blank out of the four alternatives.
Our constitution is named _____, because it is in the hands not of the _____ but of the many. But our laws secure equal _____ for all in their private disputes and our public opinion welcomes and _____ talents in every branch of achievement. And as we give free play to _____ in our public life, so we carry the same spirit into our daily relation with one another
public opinion welcomes and _____ talents in every branch
humiliate
Incorrect Answernegotiate
Incorrect AnswerExplanation:
Let’s tackle that sentence: "Our constitution is named _____, because it is in the hands not of the _____ but of the many. But our laws secure equal _____ for all in their private disputes and our public opinion welcomes and _____ talents in every branch of achievement."
Look at the key phrase: “public opinion welcomes and _____ talents in every branch of achievement.”
Now, look at the options:
1. humiliate — That doesn’t fit the positive meaning here. We don’t “welcome and humiliate” talents; that’s not a compliment.
2. judge — “Welcome and judge” could be neutral, but generally judging isn’t as positive as what the sentence hints at.
3. negotiate — We don’t “negotiate” talents. That just doesn’t sound right in context.
4. honours — This makes sense. You welcome and honour talents—it’s about recognition and respect.
So here’s the bottom line: the blank calls for a word that fits with “welcomes” and matches the positive, inclusive tone. “Honours” nails it.
If you look at the rest of the passage, it talks about fairness, inclusion, and merit. “Honours” just works naturally in this context.
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By: Parvesh Mehta