Question

In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.

He knew everyone on the island. Whenever his car stopped, half a dozen voices ____ 1 _____ shout out his name. Policemen, agricultural labourers of low social status and priests waved and smiled ____ 2 ____ he passed; everyone greeted him as a brother. They respected his honesty, and belligerence, and above all, they adored his typically Greek scorn and fearlessness when dealing with any _____ 3 ____ of Governmental red tape. On arrival, two of our cases containing linen and other things had been ______ 4 ____ by the Customs on the curious ground that they were merchandise. So, when we moved out to the villa and the problem of bed linen arose, Mother told Spiro ______ 5 _____ our cases in the Customs and asked for his advice.

• A. contributed
• B. concealed
• C. confiscated
• D. collected

Answer 1

Answer:

C. confiscated

Contextual Logic: The passage mentions the "Customs" office and "Governmental red tape." Customs officers have the legal authority to seize or take away goods that they believe violate rules (in this case, on the "curious ground that they were merchandise"). Word Meaning: "Confiscated" means to take or seize someone's property with authority. This fits the scenario of a government department (Customs) holding onto personal luggage.