Select the most effective prepositions from the given words to fill in the blank to make the sentence meaningfully, complete the questions

A great writer adopts a style appropriate ___ his subject

Explanation for the Usage of Prepositions in the Sentence

Question:

Select the most effective prepositions from the given words to fill in the blank to make the sentence meaningfully complete:

A great writer adopts a style appropriate ___ his subject.

Choices:

1. To

2. By

3. With

4. Over

Correct Answer: The correct answer is To.

Reasoning:

To understand why "To" is the correct answer, let us analyze the meaning and function of each preposition within the context of the given sentence:

1. To:

The preposition "to" is used to indicate connection or relationship, direction, place, or condition. In this context, "appropriate to" means "suitable for" or "apt for." Thus, the phrase "a style appropriate to his subject" means that the writer's style is suited for or aligns well with the subject matter. This makes "To" the most suitable preposition for the sentence.

2. By:

The preposition "by" typically indicates the means, method, or proximity. For instance, "written by," "standing by," or "by means of." However, none of these meanings fit well in the context of making a style suitable for a subject. Therefore, "by" is not appropriate in this sentence.

3. With:

The preposition "with" generally denotes accompaniment, possession, or association. For instance, "with a friend," "with a pen," or "a person with experience." While "with" implies association, it does not convey the specific suitability or appropriateness required by the sentence. Hence, "with" is not the best choice here.

4. Over:

The preposition "over" is used to indicate position above something, movement across an area, or control. For example, "over the bridge," "jumped over," and "reign over." None of these meanings fit into the context of adapting a style to suit a subject. Thus, "over" is not suitable for the sentence.

Sources:

• Cambridge Dictionary - Definition of 'appropriate'

• Oxford English Dictionary - Usage of 'to'

• Merriam-Webster Dictionary - 'to'

By understanding the specific meanings and usual applications of these prepositions, we can confidently determine that "To" is the correct preposition for the sentence "A great writer adopts a style appropriate to his subject."