Filling the Blank in the Big Ben Renovation Passage

The question asks us to select the most appropriate word to fill the first blank in the provided passage about Big Ben's renovation.

The sentence is: "Since 2017, the Elizabeth Tower and the bell inside have been (1) ______ renovation."

Analysing Blank No. 1: Choosing the Right Word for Renovation

We need a word that describes what is happening to the Elizabeth Tower and the bell when they are being renovated. Let's look at the options:

• undertaking: This means starting or doing a task or project. If someone is renovating the tower, they are undertaking the renovation. The tower itself doesn't "undertake" the renovation; it's the object of the action.
• understanding: This means grasping the meaning or significance of something. This word has no relation to the process of renovation.
• undergoing: This means experiencing or being subjected to something, often a process, change, or treatment. A building or structure can "undergo" repairs, changes, or renovation. This fits the context perfectly, as the tower is currently experiencing or is subjected to the process of renovation.
• undermining: This means weakening or damaging something gradually. This is the opposite of renovation, which is meant to improve or restore something.

Based on the meanings and the context of the sentence describing a building and its bell being in a state of repair or restoration since 2017, the word "undergoing" is the most suitable choice. It correctly indicates that the tower and bell are currently experiencing the process of renovation.

Therefore, the completed part of the sentence should be: "Since 2017, the Elizabeth Tower and the bell inside have been undergoing renovation."

Why Other Options Are Incorrect

• Undertaking: Incorrect because the tower is receiving the renovation, not performing it.
• Understanding: Incorrect as it relates to comprehension, not physical repair work.
• Undermining: Incorrect because renovation aims to improve or restore, not weaken or damage.

Revision Table: Key Vocabulary

Additional Information: Passive Voice and Verb Usage

The structure "have been + -ing form" (present perfect continuous) or "have been + past participle" (present perfect passive) is used here. The sentence "have been undergoing renovation" uses the present perfect continuous tense with the verb "undergo". This structure indicates an action (undergoing renovation) that started in the past (since 2017) and is still continuing up to the present. This aligns with the idea that the renovation project is ongoing.

Choosing the correct verb like "undergoing" depends on understanding how different verbs are used with nouns like "renovation," "repairs," "changes," etc. Phrases like "undergo repairs," "undergo changes," and "undergo renovation" are common English collocations, meaning these words often appear together.