Understanding Word Choice in Sentence Completion

The question asks to complete the sentence: "The ninth and the tenth of this month are Monday and Tuesday __________". We need to find the correct adverb to link the two pairs of items (ninth, tenth and Monday, Tuesday) in the order they are presented.

Defining 'Respectively'

The word 'respectively' means 'in the order given'. It is used to link two series of items, ensuring that the first item in the first series corresponds to the first item in the second series, and the second item in the first series corresponds to the second item in the second series.

Applying 'Respectively' to the Sentence

• The first item in the first series is 'the ninth'.
• The first item in the second series is 'Monday'.
• The second item in the first series is 'the tenth'.
• The second item in the second series is 'Tuesday'.

Using 'respectively' correctly connects these pairs: The ninth is Monday, and the tenth is Tuesday.

Analyzing Incorrect Options

• Figuratively: Means in a metaphorical sense, not literally. This doesn't fit the context of stating specific dates and days.
• Retrospectively: Means looking back at past events. This adverb relates to time perspective and is irrelevant here.
• Rightfully: Means justly or legitimately. This adverb implies legality or correctness in a moral sense, which is not applicable to stating days of the month.

Therefore, 'respectively' is the only word that logically and grammatically completes the sentence by indicating the order.

Final Answer Structure

The completed sentence is: "The ninth and the tenth of this month are Monday and Tuesday respectively."