4

Set 1: Words in Context

Explanation

Answer: D

PASSAGE

The introduction of the steam engine helped to ______ the manufacturing industry, shifting production from small hand-crafted goods to large-scale factory outputs.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

A. preserve
B. hinder
C. ignore
D. revolutionize✓ Correct

Detailed Explanation

The shift from small-scale hand-crafted goods to large-scale factories represents a massive fundamental change. 'Revolutionize' means to change something radically.

Key Evidence:

• "shifting production"

• "small hand-crafted goods to large-scale factory"

Why others are wrong: A (Preserve means to keep as is, but the industry changed significantly.), B (Hinder means to slow down, but the steam engine accelerated production.), C (Ignore implies paying no attention, which doesn't fit the context of industrial change.).