Choose the one-word substitute that best expresses the phrase a hollow object used to contain something.

Introduction / Context:
This one word substitution question asks you to find a single noun that captures the meaning of the phrase a hollow object used to contain something. Vocabulary questions of this type check your ability to match precise dictionary style definitions with technical or semi technical words that appear in formal writing, scientific texts, and high level reading passages.

Given Data / Assumptions:

The descriptive phrase is a hollow object used to contain something.

The options given are platter, salver, plate, and receptacle.

We must choose the option that refers broadly to any container, not just a flat surface for serving food.

Concept / Approach:
A receptacle is a general term in English for a container, vessel, or hollow object designed to hold or receive something. It can be used for physical containers, such as a trash receptacle or a receptacle for offerings, and sometimes in abstract senses. In contrast, platter, salver, and plate primarily refer to flat dishes, usually used for serving food. They may have slightly raised edges but are not defined primarily as hollow, nor are they broad enough in meaning to match any kind of container. Therefore, receptacle is the only word that fits the general definition of a hollow object used to contain something.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Focus on the key idea in the definition, which is a hollow object used to contain something, indicating a general container. Step 2: Recall that the noun receptacle is commonly defined as a container, device, or space that receives or holds things. Step 3: Examine platter, salver, and plate, all of which are specific types of flat dishes without a strong emphasis on being hollow. Step 4: Note that the question is not restricted to serving dishes or tableware, so a broad term for any container is more appropriate. Step 5: Conclude that receptacle is the single word that covers the exact idea of a hollow object used to contain or receive items.

Verification / Alternative check:
Try using each option in sentences that match the definition. The phrase Throw the rubbish into the receptacle matches the sense of a hollow container. By contrast, Put the rubbish on the platter or plate sounds strange, because those are meant for serving food and are not general containers. A salver is a type of tray used in formal settings, such as for serving drinks, and again does not fit the broad idea of any hollow object used to contain something. Dictionary entries confirm that receptacle refers to containers or devices that receive and hold something, making it the best fit for the given phrase.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A platter refers to a large, flat dish used for serving food, not a generic hollow container. Option B salver is a specific kind of tray, often used in formal settings, and does not carry the general meaning of any hollow container. Option C plate is a flat dish for serving or eating food and is not typically described as a hollow object used to contain things.

Common Pitfalls:
Many learners see words related to dishes like plate and platter and assume they must fit because these objects can hold food. However, the definition emphasises hollow object and is clearly more general than tableware. Another pitfall is not being familiar with the word receptacle and avoiding it simply because it seems technical. Building a strong vocabulary includes learning such general academic words that often appear in exam passages and scientific descriptions. Paying attention to precise definitions while reading can help you recognise and remember terms like receptacle more easily.

Final Answer:
receptacle