Question

In the following question, choose the option that best fills in the blank in the given sentence to complete it logically and correctly:

The boss threatened to _______ him if he did not work overtime.

• A. replace
• B. demote
• C. promote
• D. smite

Answer 1

The correct option is B demote

Option A: 'Replace' means 'to put someone in the place of another'. You re-place someone with someone else. But here, the word doesn't apply as he's not been threatened to be replaced 'with someone else'.
Hence option A is incorrect.
Option C: 'Promote' means to move someone higher in position'. One does not feel threatened by promotion.Hence C is incorrect.
Option D: 'Smite' means 'to strike with a firm blow'. This word isn't agreeable in terms of the professional relationship between a boss and his employee.
Hence D is incorrect.
Option B: 'Demote' means 'to move someone lower in position or rank'.
This word is most suitable as it completes the sentence in meaning: he would be demoted if he did not work overtime.
So, option B is correct.