Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: aspersions
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This question tests your knowledge of common English idiomatic expressions, particularly the phrase cast aspersions on someone character. The sentence warns the listener that it is inappropriate to make negative remarks about a pure woman. Your task is to choose the noun that completes the fixed expression cast ____________ on.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
In English, cast aspersions on is a set phrase meaning to make harmful, often unfair remarks about someone reputation or character. While abuses and vituperations relate to harsh language, they do not form this particular idiom. Praise, on the other hand, is positive and would contradict the idea that it does not suit you to cast something on her character.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Search your memory or reading experience for the phrase cast aspersions on and you will recall examples like They cast aspersions on his honesty or We should not cast aspersions on her reputation without evidence. You will not typically see cast abuses on or cast vituperations on in standard texts. This strong idiomatic pattern confirms that aspersions is the correct choice.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Praise is wrong because casting praise on someone character would actually be positive, and the sentence clearly criticises the act being described.
Abuses is wrong because while abuse can be used as a verb or noun, the collocation cast abuses on someone character is not standard.
Vituperations is wrong because, although it denotes abusive language, it is not used in this idiom and would sound unnatural in the sentence.
Common Pitfalls:
Many learners focus too much on the raw meaning of the individual words and ignore idiomatic usage. Abuses and vituperations may seem attractive because they are negative, but the exam is testing whether you know the complete phrase. To avoid such mistakes, learn common idioms in full rather than as isolated words.
Final Answer:
The correct word is aspersions, giving the idiom cast aspersions on the character of such a pure woman.
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