Question

Fill in the blanks with the right choice of words.

Harding was unable to ____ the results of the survey; although entirely unexpected, the figures were obtained by a market research firm with an ____ reputation.

• A. accept - peerless
• B. discount - impeccable
• C. fault - mediocre
• D. counter - unenviable
• E. believe - fine

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

discount - impeccable

The verb 'discount' means to regard (a possibility or fact) as being unworthy of consideration because it lacks credibility and it best befits the context of the first blank whereas the word 'impeccable' means faultlesswhich fits the context of the second blank. Thus B is the correct answer- it fits the given context and conveys the required meaning.

Harding was unable to discount the results of the survey; although entirely unexpected, the figures were obtained by a market research firm with an impeccable reputation.

None of the other choices fit the context.