Analyzing the Fill in the Blank Question

The question asks us to select the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: "My success was complete and the delighted directors ______ me the privilege of developing automatic regulators which were much desired." We need a verb that describes the action of the directors giving the narrator the privilege.

Examining the Options

Let's look at each option and determine if it fits the context:

• Option 1: contrasted
  The word 'contrasted' means to show a difference when compared with something else. This meaning does not fit the idea of directors giving a privilege after a success.
• Option 2: accorded
  The word 'accorded' means to give or grant someone (power, status, or recognition). This fits perfectly with the idea of directors granting the narrator the privilege of developing something after a success.
• Option 3: disagreed
  The word 'disagreed' means to have a different opinion. This does not fit the action of directors giving a privilege; in fact, it suggests a lack of agreement, which is the opposite of granting something as a reward for success.
• Option 4: removed
  The word 'removed' means to take away. This is the opposite of giving a privilege. Directors rewarding success would grant privileges, not remove them.

Determining the Most Appropriate Word

Based on the analysis, the word that best fits the context of the sentence, where delighted directors are giving a privilege after a success, is 'accorded'. It directly means 'granted' or 'gave', which is the intended meaning.

The sentence structure requires a verb that takes a direct object ("me") and an indirect object or complement ("the privilege"). 'Accorded' fits this grammatical structure and the semantic meaning required.

Conclusion

The most appropriate option to fill the blank is 'accorded' as it correctly conveys that the delighted directors granted the narrator the privilege of developing the automatic regulators.

Revision Table: Understanding Vocabulary in Context

This question tests your ability to understand the meaning of words and how they fit into the context of a sentence. When faced with such questions, consider the overall meaning the sentence is trying to convey and the specific role the missing word plays.

• Read the sentence carefully, including the blank.
• Consider the surrounding words (e.g., "delighted directors," "privilege," "success") as they provide clues about the required meaning.
• Analyze each option's meaning.
• Substitute each option into the sentence and see if it makes logical and grammatical sense.

Additional Information: Using 'Accord'

The verb 'accord' is often used formally. It can mean 'give' or 'grant' (as in the sentence) or 'be in agreement or harmony with'.

• Example 1 (Granting): Honours were accorded to the war heroes.
• Example 2 (Agreement): His story did not accord with the evidence.

In the given sentence, 'accorded' is used in the sense of granting a privilege.