Read the passage and answer the questions:
"It is with deep regret that we report a terrible fire which, early on Sunday morning, destroyed a large part of the well-known Borough Market. Although the fire brigades worked hard all through the night, the strong east wind helped the flames spread quickly, burning many stalls and storerooms. Shopkeepers and townspeople watched sadly as the market was ruined. Early investigations suggest that the fire may have started because someone handled a lantern carelessly, but the authorities are still looking into the matter. The Lord Mayor has promised a full review of fire safety rules to prevent such disasters in the future."
What does the word "regret" most closely mean?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer
Sadness
Explanation
Rule: Contextual vocabulary analysis requires identifying a synonym that aligns with the overall tone and emotional weight of the narrative passage.
Formula: Regret over a disaster = A feeling of sorrow, distress, or disappointment
Application: The passage reports a tragic event involving a "terrible fire" that "destroyed a large part" of a community landmark while citizens "watched sadly." Within this mournful context, the word "regret" directly denotes a sense of profound Sadness rather than excitement, anger, or confusion.