Fill in the blank with the most appropriate phrase:
The manager hired him purely ______, despite his lack of experience.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The phrase 'despite his lack of experience' indicates a contrast, meaning the reason for hiring him was something other than experience. Therefore, the most appropriate phrase to fill the blank would be one that provides a positive reason independent of experience, such as 'on merit' or 'on his potential'.