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      Question

      Each question consists of three sentences with

      highlighted phrases. Choose the option that can replace all three phrases. The manager tried to deal with the issue tactfully without escalating tensions. She managed to handle the situation diplomatically during the conflict. The officer was trained to manage disputes with discretion in sensitive cases.
      A sort out Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
      B iron out Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
      C smooth over Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
      D work out Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
      E No improvement required Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

      Solution

      All three sentences emphasize the idea of handling a sensitive situation carefully so as to avoid conflict or escalation .

      • deal with the issue tactfully → implies careful, diplomatic handling
      • handle the situation diplomatically → suggests avoiding confrontation
      • manage disputes with discretion → indicates subtle and cautious resolution
      The phrasal verb “smooth over” best captures this shared meaning. It denotes resolving or managing difficulties in a tactful, diplomatic manner, often by minimizing tension rather than confronting it directly . Why other options are incorrect:
      • sort out = resolve (neutral, lacks diplomatic nuance)
      • iron out = remove difficulties (mechanical/technical tone)
      • work out = find a solution (general, not necessarily tactful)

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