Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
Stereotypes may be used to justify ill-founded ___________ or ignorance, and prevent people of stereotyped groups from entering or succeeding in various activities or fields.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is option 4, i.e., prejudices.
Filler Concept: Contextually appropriate word choice
Grammar Explanation: The sentence discusses how stereotypes can support unfair or biased views. The word prejudices perfectly fits here because it means preconceived, often negative, judgments or opinions about others. The other options (problems, thoughts, conclusions) do not specifically convey this negative, unfair bias.
Correction: Stereotypes may be used to justify ill-founded prejudices or ignorance.
Final Sentence: Stereotypes may be used to justify ill-founded prejudices or ignorance, and prevent people of stereotyped groups from entering or succeeding in various activities or fields.
Conclusion: The correct option is prejudices.