Vocabulary

To solve the problem, we need to find the word that best expresses the meaning of the underlined word "pragmatism" in the sentence:

"The manager showed great pragmatism while resolving the conflict at work."

1. Understanding the word "Pragmatism":
Pragmatism refers to a practical approach to problems and affairs.

2. Analyzing the Options:
- Idealism: Pursuit of high or noble principles, often unrealistic.
- Practicality: Dealing with things sensibly and realistically.
- Emotion: Feelings or affective states.
- Ignorance: Lack of knowledge or awareness.

3. Correct Meaning:
The word "pragmatism" is closest in meaning to "practicality."

Final Answer:
The correct option is .

The sentence describes a situation where the initial reaction to the scientist's theory eventually changed due to subsequent verification. To fill in the blank, we must select the word that best contrasts with the eventual widespread acclaim. Here's the breakdown:

Options Analysis:

• skepticism: Refers to doubt or disbelief, particularly before the theory was proven; contrasts with final acceptance.
• celebration: Indicates approval or joy, which contradicts the initial doubt needed in the sentence.
• compliance: Suggests agreement or obedience, not aligning with the narrative arc from skepticism to recognition.
• ignorance: Implies lack of awareness or knowledge, which doesn't accurately capture the narrative of disbelief turning into validation.

The best choice in this context is skepticism, as it accurately captures the sense of initial doubt that was overcome through proof, leading to eventual acclaim.

To determine the word closest in meaning to "esoteric," let's analyze the options:

• Obvious: Clearly seen or easily understood, which is the opposite of esoteric.
• Mysterious: Difficult to understand or explain, often associated with something not commonly known, resembling the meaning of esoteric.
• Commonplace: Ordinary or unremarkable, which does not match the exclusive nature of esoteric.
• Confidential: Privately known or secretive, similar in nature but not as close in meaning as mysterious.

The best choice is Mysterious because "esoteric" refers to something intended for or understood by a small, specific group, aligning with the sense of mystery and obscurity.