Fill in the blanks with the appropriate antonym of the word highlighted. The onlookers, who ______ in large number, have dispersed on the arrival of the police.

Gathered (highlighted word): In this context, "gathered" means to come together in one place, especially in large numbers. The onlookers gathered in a large number initially.   Options:   (a) Scattered: This is the correct antonym for "gathered." "Scattered" means to disperse or spread out in different directions, which contrasts with the idea of coming together. (b) Distributed: This is not the opposite of "gathered." "Distributed" refers to the act of spreading or giving out in different places. (c) Gathered: This is the synonym for the highlighted word and not the antonym. (d) Unclear: This option is unrelated to the concept of coming together or dispersing.