Chief Osa prefers fame in the village to … in the city

Analyze the question The sentence sets up a contrast: "fame in the village" versus something in the city. "Prefers X to Y" means X is better than Y. So the blank needs the opposite of "fame."

Explain the concept This is a test of antonyms and contrast in context. When a sentence compares two things with "prefers... to...", the second item is usually the opposite or the less desirable alternative of the first.

Examine each option

• A. Neglect: this means being ignored or uncared for. It is not the direct opposite of fame, and it describes treatment rather than a state of being known.
• B. Ignorance: this means lack of knowledge. It has nothing to do with being famous.
• C. Poverty: this means lack of money. Fame is about reputation, not wealth, so it is not a true contrast.
• D. Obscurity: this means being unknown or not well known. It is the exact opposite of fame.

Solution "Chief Osa prefers fame in the village to obscurity in the city." That is, he would rather be well known in the village than be an unknown person in the city. The sentence is logical and balanced.

Answer: D. obscurity.

Tip: In "fill the gap" questions with "prefers... to...", look for the opposite of the first idea (fame ↔ obscurity). Also remember that "obscure" means unclear or unknown, which is why obscurity pairs naturally against fame.