Understanding the Question: UN Year Designation

The question asks us to choose the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: "The United Nations had _______ 2020 as the International Year of Plant Health." We need to select a verb that accurately describes the action taken by the United Nations when formally assigning a special status or theme to a specific year.

Analyzing the Options for the Blank

Let's examine each of the provided options to see which one fits the context of the United Nations designating a year for a special purpose like the International Year of Plant Health.

• ruled: This word typically means to make a formal decision in law or by authority, or to govern. It doesn't fit the context of announcing or designating a year for a theme.
• ordered: This word means to give a command or instruction. The UN doesn't 'order' a year to be something; they designate it or announce it.
• foretold: This word means to predict the future. Designating a year is a present action or decision, not a prediction about the future.
• declared: This word means to announce something formally, officially, or publicly. This aligns perfectly with the action of an international body like the United Nations formally assigning a special theme or status to a specific year, such as the International Year of Plant Health.

Why 'Declared' is the Correct Choice

When international organizations like the United Nations decide to dedicate a specific year to a particular theme or cause, they make a formal public announcement or statement. The verb "declared" precisely describes this type of formal announcement or designation.

The UN often "declares" international years, decades, or days to raise awareness about specific topics. Examples include the International Year of Light, the International Year of Indigenous Languages, etc. Declaring 2020 as the International Year of Plant Health means the UN officially announced and designated that year to focus global attention on the importance of plant health.

Sentence Completion with the Correct Word

Inserting the word 'declared' into the blank gives the sentence:

"The United Nations had declared 2020 as the International Year of Plant Health."

This sentence is grammatically correct and makes perfect sense in the context of how international bodies operate.

Revision Table: United Nations Declared Years

Additional Information: International Years by UN

The United Nations designates International Years to draw attention to major issues and encourage international action to address them. These designations are global observances intended to raise awareness and mobilize support. The process usually involves a resolution by the UN General Assembly. Declaring a year focuses efforts and resources on a particular theme, promoting collaboration among member states, international organizations, civil society, and individuals.