In the following passage, some of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and select the correct answer for the given blank out of the four alternatives. Some writers have claimed that the _______of persons are incapable of even fairly correct reasoning, pointing to the absurd ideas entertained by the masses of people as a proof _____ the statement. These writers are probably a little radical ______their views and statements, but one is often struck ______ wonder at the evidences of incapacity for interpreting ______ and impressions on the part of the general public.
little radical _______ their views
in
The question asks us to fill in the blank in the phrase "little radical _______ their views" within the context of the provided passage. This is a cloze test question focusing on the correct use of prepositions.
Understanding the Passage and the Blank
The passage discusses the inability of some people to reason correctly, particularly the masses, who hold "absurd ideas". The writers mentioned in the passage are described as "a little radical _______ their views and statements". We need to determine the preposition that correctly fits after "radical" to describe the area or subject in which someone holds radical views.
Analyzing the Options and Choosing the Correct Preposition
Let's look at the provided options and consider how they might fit with the word "radical" in this context:
- Into: This preposition usually indicates movement into something or a transformation. It doesn't fit naturally with "radical" to describe the domain of someone's views.
- To: This preposition is often used for direction or a relationship between two things. While one can be "radical to" a particular group or idea, "radical to their views" is not standard phrasing to express radicalism *within* their views.
- In: This preposition is commonly used to indicate the area, subject, or domain in which something exists or applies. When talking about someone's opinions or beliefs, being "radical in" their views is a standard and correct way to express that their views are extreme or unconventional. For example, someone might be "radical in politics," "radical in their approach," or "radical in their thinking."
- On: This preposition is typically used for position on a surface, a topic of discussion, or a time reference. While one might have views "on" something, being "radical on their views" is grammatically incorrect and doesn't convey the intended meaning.
Based on common English usage, the preposition "in" is the most appropriate choice to complete the phrase "radical _______ their views", indicating that their radical nature is found within the scope of their views and statements.
Confirming the Correct Usage of Prepositions
Let's consider how "radical" is typically used with prepositions:
- Radical in something (e.g., radical in politics, radical in approach, radical in views) - indicates the field or area of radicalism.
- Radical from something (less common, implies deviation)
- Radical on something (incorrect usage for views)
The context of the passage clearly refers to the nature of the writers' opinions and statements. Therefore, "radical in their views" accurately describes this.
Let's rewrite the sentence with the correct preposition:
"These writers are probably a little radical in their views and statements..."
This sentence makes perfect grammatical and contextual sense, fitting smoothly into the overall passage which discusses different perspectives on public reasoning ability.
Summary of Preposition Usage
| Preposition | Fit with "radical views" | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Into | No | Implies movement/transformation, not domain of views. |
| To | No | Usually directional or relational, not suitable for the domain of views. |
| In | Yes | Correctly indicates the area or domain (views/statements) where the radical nature exists. |
| On | No | Incorrect usage; not used to specify the domain of being radical. |
Therefore, the correct preposition to fill the blank is "in".
Revision Table: Understanding Prepositions in Context
| Concept | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Preposition | Words that connect a noun or pronoun to other words in a sentence, often indicating position, direction, time, or relationship. | in, on, at, to, from, with, by |
| Prepositional Phrase | A phrase consisting of a preposition, its object (a noun or pronoun), and any modifiers of the object. | in the box, on the table, with great enthusiasm |
| Using "in" | Can indicate location within an area, time period, or the subject/domain someone is involved with or characterized by. | He is radical in his thinking. They work in the city. The event happened in July. |
Additional Information: Understanding "Radical"
The word "radical" is important in this passage. It means:
- (of a person or group) advocating or resulting from political or social revolution.
- (especially of change or action) relating to or affecting the fundamental nature of something; far-reaching or thorough.
- (linguistics) relating to the root of a word.
- (slang) excellent; amazing.
In the context of the passage, "radical" refers to the writers holding views that are extreme or fundamentally different from conventional thought, particularly concerning the reasoning abilities of the general public. Understanding the meaning of "radical" helps confirm why a preposition indicating the domain of these views (like "in") is necessary.
Important Questions from Vocab Based Questions
Which of the following fits the blank (1) appropriately?
Which of the following fits the blank (2) appropriately?
Which of the following fits the blank (3) appropriately?
Which of the following fits the blank (4) appropriately?
Which of the following fits the blank (5) appropriately?
