Political scientists have observed that voter turnout in local elections is consistently lower than in national elections. Many citizens perceive local issues as less _______ to their daily lives, despite the fact that municipal decisions often affect neighborhoods, schools, and public services more directly.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?
harmful
visible
relevant
expensive
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The passage contrasts voter perception with reality: citizens think local issues matter less, but they actually have more direct impact.
- Context clues: The word "despite" introduces a contradiction—citizens think something untrue about local issues.
- Meaning: "Relevant" means closely connected to the matter at hand, which fits the discussion of issues affecting daily life.
- Verify: The irony is complete: citizens view local issues as less "relevant" even though they're more directly impactful.
đź’ˇ Strategy: Words like "despite" signal contrasts and help identify what the missing word should convey.
Choice A is incorrect because "harmful" implies danger, which isn't the comparison being made. Choice B is incorrect because while local issues may be less visible in media, the blank specifically addresses perceived importance. Choice D is incorrect because "expensive" refers to cost, which doesn't fit the context of personal relevance.