In the field of architectural conservation, nineteenth-century purists often sought to restore monuments to a single, idealized 'original' state, even if doing so required stripping away valuable subsequent additions. In contrast, modern preservationists argue that a building's identity is defined by all the historical periods it has weathered. Consequently, contemporary conservation guidelines advocate for a more ______ approach—one that actively integrates elements from various historical eras rather than enforcing structural uniformity.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
- Aorthodox
- Bindiscriminate
- eclecticAnswer
- Ddogmatic
Answer
eclectic
The correct option is 'eclectic' because the passage contrasts nineteenth-century purists, who favored a single 'original' state, with modern preservationists, who value all historical layers of a building. The blank describes an approach that 'actively integrates elements from various historical eras,' which matches the definition of eclectic (selecting or employing elements from diverse sources).
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Words in Context: High-Utility Vocabulary
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