In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select the option that is the best one-word substitute for the given group of words. Deliberately destroy something for military advantage

Introduction / Context:
This one word substitution question asks you to identify a single term that means "deliberately destroy something for military advantage". The context is usually war, conflict, or covert operations, where equipment, installations, or plans are intentionally damaged to weaken the enemy. The word that captures this idea in English is "sabotage".

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Definition given: "Deliberately destroy something for military advantage".
• Options: Devotion, Fidelity, Sabotage, Ardour.
• We assume a wartime or strategic context where destruction is used as a tactic.
• Three options describe positive feelings or loyalty, while one describes destruction.

Concept / Approach:
"Sabotage" refers to the deliberate destruction, damage, or obstruction of something, especially for political or military advantage. It can be carried out by enemies, spies, or even internal workers to disrupt operations. By contrast, "devotion", "fidelity", and "ardour" all refer to strong positive emotions or loyalty and have nothing to do with destruction. Therefore, "sabotage" is the only word that matches the given description.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the meaning of "sabotage": to deliberately damage or destroy property or plans to hinder an enemy or competitor.Step 2: Match this with the given phrase "deliberately destroy something for military advantage". The two definitions align very closely.Step 3: Consider "devotion". This means strong love, loyalty, or commitment, not destruction.Step 4: Consider "fidelity". This means faithfulness, especially in relationships or duties.Step 5: Consider "ardour". This means intense enthusiasm or passion. None of these suggest deliberate destructive action.

Verification / Alternative check:
Think of real world contexts: "The bridge was sabotaged to prevent the enemy from crossing", "Workers threatened to sabotage the machines during the strike." In both examples, "sabotaged" fits the meaning of deliberate destruction. Replacing it with "devoted", "faithful", or "ardent" would make no sense. This confirms that "sabotage" is the correct one word substitute for the given description.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A, "Devotion", relates to strong dedication or loyalty, often in religious or personal contexts. Option B, "Fidelity", is about faithfulness or loyalty in relationships, contracts, or duties. Option D, "Ardour", means passionate enthusiasm or intense feeling. All three are emotionally positive qualities and do not involve any concept of destruction or military action. Thus, they cannot be correct here.

Common Pitfalls:
In one word substitution questions, some students focus too much on the emotional tone of the options rather than the key verbs in the definition. Here, the core idea is "deliberately destroy", which warns you to look for a word related to damage, not feelings of love or loyalty. To avoid errors, always identify the main action or quality in the phrase and then match it to the correct technical term in the options.

Final Answer:
The best one word substitute for "deliberately destroy something for military advantage" is Sabotage.