Fill in the blank with the correct phrasal verb: Due to heavy rains, the match was called _____.

Introduction / Context:
This question tests your knowledge of common English phrasal verbs, especially those used with events like matches, meetings, or functions. Choosing the correct particle can completely change the meaning of the verb, so you must be familiar with idiomatic combinations rather than translating word by word.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- Sentence: Due to heavy rains, the match was called _____. - Options: of, off, down, out. - Context: the match did not take place because of heavy rain. - Passive voice is used, was called plus particle.

Concept / Approach:
The phrasal verb call off means to cancel something that was planned, such as a match, strike, or meeting. When we say the match was called off, it means the organisers decided not to conduct the match. The other particles with call either have different meanings or are not standard in this context. Therefore, the correct particle is off.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify that the sentence describes cancellation because of heavy rains. Step 2: Recall the phrasal verb call off, which means to cancel. Step 3: Fit it into the passive form: the match was called off. Step 4: Test other options. Called of is ungrammatical and has no recognised meaning here. Step 5: Called down usually means to criticise or scold someone, which does not fit the sentence. Step 6: Called out means to shout or summon someone, again not suitable for cancelling a match. Step 7: Thus, off is the only correct choice.

Verification / Alternative check:
Check with similar sentences: The strike was called off after negotiations, The meeting was called off due to lack of quorum. In all these examples, call off clearly means cancel. Replacing it in the original sentence as Due to heavy rains, the match was called off produces a natural and grammatically correct result, confirming the choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Of in option A does not form a standard phrasal verb with call in this sense and makes the sentence incorrect. Down in option C would suggest a different meaning, such as criticise, and is not idiomatic with match as object. Out in option D suggests making a public announcement or challenging someone, but not cancelling an event.

Common Pitfalls:
Many learners look at the literal meaning of the particle and guess, for example, thinking that out might mean outside and thus associate it with rain. However, phrasal verbs are idiomatic, and literal guesses often fail. It is important to learn common collocations like call off, put off, and break up as fixed expressions with their specific meanings.

Final Answer:
The correct phrasal verb is was called off, so the answer is off.