For each blank, choose the word or phrase that best contributes to a clear, logical sentence. Choose one answer for each blank: the choices for the first blank are labeled A–C; the choices for the second blank are labeled D–F.
The senator's blunt remarks were hailed by supporters as admirably (i) but condemned by opponents as dangerously (ii) , even though both camps agreed on what she had actually said.
- (i) guarded
- (i) flippant
- (i) forthright (correct answer)
- (ii) provocative (correct answer)
- (ii) measured
- (ii) diplomatic
Explanation: The sentence shows the same 'blunt remarks' being praised and condemned, so both blanks must describe qualities consistent with bluntness, viewed positively and negatively respectively. Blank (i) needs a positive term for directness that fits 'admirably'—forthright works; guarded is the opposite of blunt, and flippant carries a dismissive connotation incompatible with 'admirably.' Blank (ii) needs a negative term for the same directness fitting 'dangerously'—provocative works; measured and diplomatic both contradict 'blunt' and 'dangerously,' describing restraint rather than risk. Since both camps described the same behavior, only forthright/provocative captures directness viewed through opposite evaluative lenses.