In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the alternative which is the best one word substitute for the given description. An ornamented staff carried by rulers on ceremonial occasions as a symbol of sovereignty.

Introduction / Context:
This question checks knowledge of one word substitutes related to symbols of power and royalty. Rulers often use particular objects during ceremonies to represent authority, and the English language has precise words for these items. Knowing such terms is helpful for history, literature, and general vocabulary questions.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The phrase is: an ornamented staff carried by rulers on ceremonial occasions as a symbol of sovereignty.
• Options are: Spectacle, Receptacle, Sceptre, Zephyr.
• We must choose the single word that exactly matches this description.

Concept / Approach:
In monarchies and other traditional systems, kings and queens carry a special staff or rod during coronations and other ceremonies. That decorated rod symbolising royal authority is called a "sceptre." It is a well known term in political and literary contexts. The other words in the list either relate to containers, visual displays, or wind and have nothing to do with royal staffs.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Focus on key ideas: "ornamented staff," "carried by rulers," and "symbol of sovereignty." Step 2: Recall the standard term from history and literature for such an object, which is "sceptre." Step 3: Check that a sceptre is indeed a ceremonial staff and not just any stick or weapon. Step 4: Compare with the other options to ensure they do not fit the description. Step 5: Conclude that "Sceptre" is the only accurate match.

Verification / Alternative check:
In many descriptions of coronations, both crown and sceptre are mentioned together as the key symbols of monarchy. Phrases like "the crown and sceptre of the king" clearly show that the sceptre is an object of authority. None of the other words are ever used in that way, which confirms the choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Spectacle: This means an impressive or striking display that people watch, not a physical staff.
• Receptacle: This means a container or vessel used to hold or store things, not a symbol of sovereignty.
• Zephyr: This means a gentle breeze or light wind, especially from the west, and has no link to royal insignia.

Common Pitfalls:
A common error is to choose a word because it sounds sophisticated without recalling its exact meaning. Another mistake is to confuse "sceptre" with "spectre," which refers to a ghost. Carefully reading the description and connecting it to known historical imagery of kings and queens helps prevent such confusion.

Final Answer:
The correct one word substitute for the given description is Sceptre.