VOCABULARY — Choose the best synonym (same meaning) of the highlighted word, based on the sentence. Sentence: “Some of the Asian countries have been ENMESHED in an inescapable debt trap.”

Introduction / Context:
The sentence discusses nations caught in an inescapable debt trap. The highlighted word “enmeshed” is often used for situations where someone or something is caught up in a complicated web of problems or obligations. This item tests your command of precise synonyms in geopolitical and economic contexts.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The subject is countries facing a debt trap, a complex and constraining situation.
• “Enmeshed” modifies the relationship between those countries and their debt.
• We need the closest single-word synonym that preserves the metaphor of being caught in a net or mesh.

Concept / Approach:
“Enmesh” literally evokes being caught in a mesh or net. Metaphorically, it means to entangle or involve deeply in a difficult situation from which escape is hard. Therefore, the most accurate synonym is “entangled.” Words like “hit” or “struck” describe a sudden adverse event but do not capture the continuing, constricting nature of a trap. “Ensured” is almost the opposite in tone, indicating guarantee rather than restraint.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify semantic core: “enmeshed” = caught up, involved so deeply that disentanglement is hard.2) Compare options: “entangled” matches the net/trap metaphor; “hit/struck” imply impact, not ongoing restraint; “ensured” is unrelated.3) Test substitution: “countries have been entangled in an inescapable debt trap” reads naturally and preserves meaning.4) Confirm register: both “enmeshed” and “entangled” are common in policy writing.

Verification / Alternative check:
Think of parallel phrases: “enmeshed in controversy,” “entangled in litigation.” In each, both words emphasize being caught in complex, sticky circumstances. This strengthens the synonymy.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
B) “hit” — a one-time impact; does not describe ongoing constraint.C) “struck” — similar to “hit,” still event-focused, not trap-like.D) “ensured” — means guaranteed; opposite sense of being trapped.E) Not needed because A fits exactly.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing shock words (hit/struck) with sustained-condition words (enmeshed/entangled). Debt traps are persistent, not merely sudden impacts.

Final Answer:
entangled