Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
The mediator's calm tone helped ______ the tension in the room.
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. defuse
- 'amplify' means to increase or intensify, which is contrary to the pacifying effect of a calm mediator.
- 'inflame' means to exacerbate or provoke anger, contradicting the intended purpose of calming the room.
- 'celebrate' means to commemorate or honor, which does not collocate meaningfully with interpersonal tension.
- 'inflame' means to exacerbate or provoke anger, contradicting the intended purpose of calming the room.
- 'celebrate' means to commemorate or honor, which does not collocate meaningfully with interpersonal tension.
- Step 1: Identify the intended outcome of the mediator's calm demeanor: reducing volatile emotional tension.
- Step 2: The verb defuse means to make a situation less dangerous, volatile, or tense.
Answer
defuse.
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