Idioms – Choose the option that best explains the meaning of the highlighted expression in context. Sentence: The project did not appear to “hold out bright prospects.”

Introduction / Context:
The phrase “hold out” in business or planning contexts means “to offer” or “to present as a possibility.” When a project does not “hold out bright prospects,” it does not offer encouraging possibilities for success, profit, or growth.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target phrasal verb: “hold out.”
• Object phrase: “bright prospects,” i.e., favourable possibilities.
• We need the closest single-word replacement in this collocation.

Concept / Approach:
Both “offer” and “promise” are close. However, “hold out prospects” standardly collocates with “offer” in the sense of “extend” or “present.” “Promise” leans toward an assurance or guarantee, which is stronger than the neutral “offer prospects.” Therefore, “offer” is the most accurate fit in this sentence.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Paraphrase: “The project did not appear to offer bright prospects.” This preserves tone and business register, confirming the best choice. Usage guides often note “hold out hope/prospect/possibility” as “offer/extend hope or prospect.”

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• highlight: Means emphasise; not about providing possibilities.
• show: Too general; lacks the sense of offering potential.
• promise: Too strong; suggests guarantee rather than mere possibility.

Common Pitfalls:
Overinterpreting “prospects” as assured outcomes. Prospects are possibilities; “offer” correctly captures that tentative nature.

Final Answer:
offer