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Question

Difficulty: HardWord Precision and Clarity

The treaty was signed in 1919, but its terms were so harsh that they [underlined]fertilized[/underlined] the very instability they were meant to prevent. This systemic fragility ultimately paved the way for another global conflict, demonstrating how retributive peace agreements can yield catastrophic consequences. Historians continue to study this period to understand the delicate balance between justice and reconciliation.

Which choice most precisely and clearly completes the sentence?

  1. A
    NO CHANGE
  2. B
    cultivated
  3. fosteredAnswer
  4. D
    cooked up

Answer

fostered
The word 'fostered' is correct because it precisely means to encourage or promote the development of a state or condition, which fits the context of treaty terms leading to instability. It also maintains the formal, academic tone of the passage.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence and the meaning of the underlined word.
The sentence discusses how the harsh terms of a treaty encouraged or promoted the development of instability. The word 'fertilized' is an agricultural term and is imprecise when used to describe political instability.
To identify if a correction is needed.
2
Evaluate the other options to find a word that is precise, clear, and maintains the proper tone.
'Cultivated' is incorrect because it implies positive, purposeful growth. 'Cooked up' is too informal and violates the academic tone. 'Fostered' is precise and fits the register perfectly.
To select the option that best fits the sentence's meaning and register.

Key Concept

Word Precision and Clarity
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Topics

Word Precision and Clarity

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