Complete this question with the most appropriate of the options lettered A - EThe foreign investor was advised…

Analyze the question: The sentence says the investor should "stop __ and take a firm decision at once." We need a word that describes the opposite of taking a firm decision, meaning indecisiveness or wavering.

Explain the concepts (the options):

• Contemplating: thinking deeply about something. It is neutral and does not imply indecision, and it is usually followed by an object ("contemplating a move").
• Differing: disagreeing or being unlike. It does not fit the context.
• Dithering: being nervously indecisive and unable to make up your mind. It fits well.
• Meditating: thinking quietly or spiritually. It is not related to decision-making here.
• Procrastinating: delaying or putting off action. It is close in meaning, but it usually takes an object ("procrastinating on the project") and stresses delay rather than indecision.

Step-by-step solution:

1. The contrast is between "stop __" and "take a firm decision." The missing word must mean being unable to decide.
2. The word firm is the opposite of wavering, and "dithering" means exactly that: wavering between choices.
3. "Procrastinating" is a possible alternative, but it suggests putting off tasks out of laziness or habit. "Dithering" fits better because it is used intransitively, with no object needed, which is what this sentence requires.
4. "Contemplating," "differing," and "meditating" do not suggest indecision, so they are out.

Answer: The most appropriate option is C. dithering.

Tip: In "fill in the gap" questions, look for the contrast word in the sentence. Here "firm decision" points to the opposite idea, dithering (shilly-shallying). Also check whether the word needs an object: "dithering" stands on its own, while "procrastinating" and "contemplating" usually need something after them.