Fill in the blank with the most appropriate verb to complete the sentence correctly in formal English: Most of the students have forgotten to bring their certificates; they will be _______ by the Principal for this reason.

Introduction / Context:
This question tests your understanding of precise vocabulary and formal English usage in the context of discipline in an academic institution. Several verbs are given that seem related to blame or criticism, but only one fits the tone and meaning of what a school Principal would normally do when students forget to bring important certificates.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Most of the students have forgotten to bring their certificates.
• The Principal is reacting to this lapse.
• The missing word must be a verb that describes the Principal's action.
• The context is a formal school or college setting.

Concept / Approach:
The key is to choose a verb that matches both the meaning and the register (formal tone). In school contexts, a Principal usually scolds or formally criticizes students, but does not normally abuse them or accuse them of crimes. The word should express formal disapproval rather than physical or verbal mistreatment.

Step-by-Step Solution:
First, understand that the Principal is displeased because students forgot certificates.Next, check each option for meaning and tone in a school context.“Abused” suggests harsh, insulting or cruel treatment; this is too strong and inappropriate.“Accused” is usually used when someone is blamed for an offence or crime, which does not fit a simple case of carelessness.“Reproached” means expressed disapproval, and “reprimanded” means given an official scolding or formal warning.In a formal institutional context, “reprimanded by the Principal” is the most natural and common collocation.

Verification / Alternative check:
If you mentally replace the blank with each option, “reprimanded by the Principal” clearly sounds like standard school English. It also appears frequently in exam passages and administrative language, confirming that this is the best and most idiomatic choice among the four options.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Reproached” is close in meaning but less commonly used in this exact collocation; “reprimanded” is stronger and more formal. “Abused” usually implies cruelty or violence, which is not implied here. “Accused” suggests being charged with an offence, which is not the case for simply forgetting certificates.

Common Pitfalls:
A common mistake is to choose a word only because it is vaguely negative, without considering how it is actually used in real sentences. Students may also confuse “reproach” and “reprimand”, but “reprimand” is more suitable when a superior formally scolds subordinates in an official capacity.

Final Answer:
The correct verb to complete the sentence is reprimanded.