In the following question, a sentence with a blank is given, followed by five words labeled (1), (2), (3), (4), and (5). Choose the word that fills the blank appropriately in the context of the passage.
Across centuries, the movement of peoples, whether voluntary or forced, has continually reshaped cultures, economies, and identities. The concept of diaspora ___(1) , not merely the scattering of individuals across lands, but the weaving of complex narratives that transcend borders. Communities living abroad often_____ (2) between preserving ancestral traditions and embracing the customs of their adopted homelands. Language, food, and festivals become linchpins of cultural memory, yet over generations, inevitable transformations (3) ___, blending old and new in unexpected ways. The emotional landscape of the diaspora is often marked by___ (4) nostalgia, a bittersweet yearning for a homeland that exists both in memory and myth. Meanwhile, some voices within diasporic communities warn against____ (5) assimilation, fearing that full integration could erode essential aspects of identity.
Which modal/tense works best? (3)
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The sentence is:
“…yet over generations, inevitable transformations (3) ___, blending old and new in unexpected ways.”
The subject is “transformations” → plural.
The sentence expresses a general truth → use simple present tense.
So the correct verb form is “occur” (plural base form).
Why others are wrong:
will occur → future tense, not suitable for general truth
occurs → singular verb
occurring → participle, doesn’t fit as main verb