VOCABULARY — Choose the best synonym (same meaning) of the highlighted word, based on the sentence. Sentence: “It is a SCANDAL that the murderer was declared innocent.”

Introduction / Context:
“Scandal” in public affairs refers to an event or decision that is morally or socially disgraceful, provoking outrage. The sentence frames a judicial outcome as a moral shock. This asks you to differentiate between mere talk and a substantive act that is disgraceful.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The issue is a murderer being declared innocent.
• “Scandal” must denote an event or action, not just gossip.
• We seek the closest paraphrase capturing the shock and disgrace dimension.

Concept / Approach:
Among the choices, “disgraceful action” best matches the sense of “scandal” as a reprehensible occurrence. “Silly notion” trivializes the moral gravity. “Talk” or “rumour” point to conversation and hearsay, which are consequences of a scandal but not the scandal itself. The core meaning is about an act or situation that is shocking and shameful.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify semantic core: scandal = shocking, disgraceful event or action.2) Compare options: only “disgraceful action” names an event with moral censure.3) Substitute: “It is a disgraceful action that the murderer was declared innocent.” This keeps the evaluative force.4) Confirm register: both words are used in editorials and public commentary.

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider derivative forms: “scandalous decision” aligns directly with “disgraceful decision,” reinforcing the mapping.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
A) “silly notion” — minimizes seriousness; wrong dimension.B) “talk” — refers to public discussion, not the shocking event.C) “rumour” — unverified talk; not the scandal itself.E) Not necessary because D fits exactly.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing the scandal (event) with the buzz (gossip) that follows. The question targets the event’s disgrace, not the chatter.

Final Answer:
disgraceful action