In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the single word which is the best substitute for the phrase "A short statement expressing a general truth."

Introduction / Context:
One-word substitution exercises help you build a strong vocabulary and express complex ideas in a compact way. The phrase given here describes a type of statement that expresses a general truth or rule of conduct. Such statements are widely used in philosophy, moral teachings and everyday sayings. You must select the word that precisely represents this concept.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Phrase: "A short statement expressing a general truth."
• Options: Maxim, Infer, Drum, Pander.
• We need a noun referring to a concise general truth, not a verb or an unrelated object.
• We assume standard dictionary definitions for all options.

Concept / Approach:
The word "maxim" refers to a brief statement that expresses a general truth or a rule of conduct, for example "Honesty is the best policy." Other similar words include proverb, aphorism, and adage, but among the options here, "maxim" is the one that fits perfectly. The approach is to compare each option with this definition and eliminate those that clearly belong to different word families or meanings.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recognise the phrase describes something like a proverb or aphorism: a short, wise saying about life. Step 2: Examine option "Maxim". A maxim is defined as a short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct. Step 3: Examine option "Infer". Infer is a verb meaning to draw a conclusion from evidence, not a noun naming a type of statement. Step 4: Examine option "Drum". A drum is a musical instrument or object, completely unrelated to general truths or statements. Step 5: Examine option "Pander". Pander is a verb meaning to indulge or satisfy someone's lower desires, again not related to concise truths. Step 6: Since only "Maxim" matches the concept and grammatical form needed, select it as the answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
Checking a dictionary, "maxim" is defined as "a short statement of a general truth, principle, or rule for behaviour." Example: "He lives by the maxim that one should treat others as one wishes to be treated." The phrase in the question—"a short statement expressing a general truth"—aligns almost word for word with this definition, confirming that "maxim" is the correct choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Infer: A verb meaning to conclude from evidence; it refers to a mental process, not a type of statement.
• Drum: A concrete noun naming an instrument; it has no conceptual link to general truths or rules.
• Pander: A verb meaning to cater to or gratify someone's weaknesses; it is unrelated to the idea of moral or general truths.

Common Pitfalls:
Because "maxim" is less frequently used than "proverb", some candidates may be uncertain of its meaning and avoid it. Others might not pay attention to the part of speech and mistakenly choose a familiar verb instead of the required noun. Always ensure that the grammatical category (noun, verb, adjective) matches what the phrase demands, and where the phrasing in the question closely mirrors a dictionary definition, treat that as a strong clue.

Final Answer:
The best one-word substitute is Maxim.