One-word substitution (vocabulary): Choose the correct term for “a state in which the few govern the many.” Select the single best word that matches the political definition.

Reasoning through options Oligarchy — rule by a small group (the few) over the many; exact match. Monarchy — rule by a single sovereign (king/queen). Autocracy — rule by one person with absolute power. Plutocracy — rule by the wealthy; a type of oligarchy but specifically wealth-based, not merely “few.”

Final Answer Oligarchy