The correct option to fill the gap in the sentence is
D. on.
Explanation of the Correct Answer
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Understanding the Context: The sentence discusses how the principal was able to establish a language laboratory by following guidance. The phrase "acted on the advice" is a common English expression that means to take action based on someone else's recommendations or suggestions.
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Phrase Usage: The phrase "act on" is a phrasal verb that means to take action based on information or advice received. In this context, it indicates that the principal took the advice of experts seriously and implemented it, leading to the successful establishment of the language laboratory.
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Grammatical Structure: The preposition "on" is used here to indicate the basis or foundation for the principal's actions. It shows that the advice was the motivating factor behind his decision to establish the laboratory.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect
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A. through: This option suggests a means of doing something, but it does not fit well in this context. "Acting through the advice" would imply that the advice was a medium or channel for action, which is not the intended meaning. The principal did not act "through" the advice; he acted based on it.
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B. at: Using "at" in this context would imply a location or a specific point in time, which does not make sense here. "Acting at the advice" is not a standard English expression and does not convey the intended meaning of following or implementing advice.
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C. from: While "from" can indicate the source of advice, it does not convey the action of taking that advice and implementing it. "Acting from the advice" suggests a passive reception of advice rather than an active decision to follow it. It lacks the connotation of taking action that "on" provides.
Summary of Key Points
- The correct answer is D. on because it accurately conveys the action of following advice.
- "Act on" is a common English expression meaning to take action based on advice or recommendations.
- The other options (A, B, C) do not fit the context or meaning of the sentence as they imply different relationships between the principal's actions and the advice given.
- Understanding the nuances of prepositions is crucial for selecting the correct option in fill-in-the-blank questions.
Revision Summary
- The correct phrase is "act on the advice," indicating taking action based on recommendations.
- "On" is the appropriate preposition for this context, while "through," "at," and "from" do not convey the intended meaning.
- Familiarity with common expressions and phrasal verbs can aid in answering similar questions correctly.
- Always consider the context and the relationship between the words when choosing the correct option.