Completing the Sentence: Administrator's Justification

The sentence describes administrators implementing a new, 'unreasonable measure'. Their justification is based on the state of the existing measures: they argue that adding one more wouldn't make a significant difference because the previous ones were already in a certain condition.

Analyzing Word Choice for Context

The blank requires a word that describes the previous measures, explaining why the administrators felt adding another wouldn't matter much. Let's analyze the options:

• Reflective: This means thoughtful or showing deep thought. It does not fit the context of measures or the administrators' justification.
• Utopian: This describes something idealistic but impractical. While possible, it doesn't directly explain why adding *another* measure would be inconsequential.
• Luxuriant: This typically describes rich growth (like plants) or something elaborate. It is irrelevant to the context of administrative measures.
• Unpopular: This means disliked by the public. If the previous measures were already unpopular, the administrators might cynically believe that adding one more wouldn't significantly worsen the public's negative perception, hence 'hardly make a difference'. This fits the administrators' dismissive reasoning for implementing an 'unreasonable measure'.

Conclusion

The most appropriate word to complete the sentence, fitting the administrators' logic about existing measures making little difference when adding another, is unpopular.