Question

The researcher's new theory was (i) _______ by her peers, who were initially skeptical but later came to see the value in her innovative approach.

• A. dismissed
• B. derided
• C. embraced
• D. overlooked
• E. scrutinized

Hint:

In vocabulary-based questions, look for contextual clues that suggest the attitude or response of the subjectsWords like "skeptical" followed by "later came to see the value" often indicate a positive change in response

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The sentence suggests a significant shift in the perspective of the peers regarding the theoryInitially, the peers were skeptical, which clearly indicates that they harbored doubts or uncertainty about the validity and value of the theorySkepticism in this context reflects hesitation and a lack of full trust or belief in the theory’s potentialHowever, as time progressed and more evidence or understanding emerged, these peers gradually came to recognize the importance and significance of the theoryThis transition—from initial doubt and reluctance to eventual recognition and acceptance—is crucial to grasp when determining the most appropriate word to describe their changing attitude
The word ``embraced'' captures this transformation exceptionally wellIt implies more than simple acceptance; it suggests a positive, enthusiastic endorsement or wholehearted support of the theory after initially rejecting or questioning itTo embrace something means to welcome it openly and with approval, often accompanied by a sense of eagerness or convictionThus, the peers’ journey from skepticism to active support aligns perfectly with the connotations of this wordIt emphasizes not only that they accepted the theory but that they did so with enthusiasm and genuine approval
In contrast, other words such as ``tolerated'' or ``acknowledged'' fail to convey this depth of positive changeTolerated suggests merely enduring or allowing the theory’s presence without enthusiasm, while acknowledged implies recognition without necessarily implying approval or supportThese terms lack the sense of active, enthusiastic acceptance that embraced effectively communicatesTherefore, considering the context and the nuance of the peers’ changing attitude, ``embraced'' is the most accurate and fitting choice
Hence, the correct answer is (C) embraced, as it best describes the peers’ progression from initial doubt to wholehearted acceptance and support of the theory