The students … the planned meeting with the new principal.

Analyze the question

You are asked to choose the word that best fills the gap in: "The students _ the planned meeting with the new principal." This tests vocabulary in context and collocation, meaning which verb naturally goes with "meeting".

Explain the concept

Each option has a different meaning and grammar pattern:

• Refused usually takes an infinitive: "refused to attend the meeting". It does not fit directly with "the planned meeting" as an object.
• Neglected means failing to give proper care or attention, usually by carelessness: "neglected their duties". It suggests accidental or careless omission, not a deliberate group action.
• Boycotted means deliberately staying away from an event, or refusing to take part in it, as a form of protest. It takes a direct object: "boycotted the meeting".
• Rejected means refusing to accept an idea, proposal or offer: "rejected the proposal". People do not normally "reject a meeting".

Solution

1. The sentence needs a verb with a direct object ("the planned meeting").
2. "Refused" would need "to attend", so it is ruled out grammatically.
3. "Neglected" suggests carelessness, which is odd for students dealing with a new principal. It is a weak fit.
4. "Rejected" does not collocate with "meeting".
5. "Boycotted the planned meeting" is natural. It suggests a deliberate, collective protest, which fits students and a new principal.

Answer: C. boycotted

Tip: In "gap-filling" questions, check grammar first, then collocation. Ask: "Does this verb take this object directly?" Also remember that "boycott" is the word for a group deliberately staying away as a protest. You can link it with strikes, protests and elections.