English Idiom — Select the closest meaning. Sentence: His speech went down well with the majority of the audience.

Introduction / Context:
In performance and public speaking, the idiom “go down well with” means to be well received or appreciated by an audience. It refers to overall acceptance and positive response, not necessarily the presence of loud applause or mere attentive listening.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Idiom: went down well (with an audience).
• Audience reaction is being summarized.
• We must pick the option that best captures favorable reception.

Concept / Approach:
“Was appreciated by” expresses a positive evaluation from listeners and is the closest paraphrase. “Found acceptance with” is close but sounds awkward and is less idiomatic. “Was attentively listened to by” describes behavior during delivery, not the overall verdict. “Was applauded by” is possible but too specific; a speech can be well received without sustained applause.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Paraphrase: “His speech was appreciated by the majority of the audience.” This keeps the intended summary judgment and matches common event reporting.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• found acceptance with: Close but less idiomatic in modern usage.
• was attentively listened to by: Neutral; attention does not imply appreciation.
• was applauded by: Applause is only one signal; the idiom is broader.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating “went down well” exclusively with applause. The idiom covers overall positive reception, including approval, engagement, and favorable feedback.

Final Answer:
was appreciated by