After the riot, the streets were blocked with charred vehicles.

Analyze the question: The underlined word is "charred," used to describe vehicles left on the streets after a riot. We need the word closest in meaning.

Explain the concept: "Char" is a verb meaning to burn something so that its surface becomes black, or to scorch it. So "charred" means burnt (blackened by fire). Be careful with words that describe damage in general. Only one option specifically refers to fire.

Step by step:

• A. destroyed – This is too general. Something can be destroyed by flooding, crushing, or smashing, not only by fire. Charred specifically implies fire.
• B. vandalized – This means deliberately damaged. It says nothing about burning.
• C. broken – This means smashed or not working. It does not suggest fire.
• D. burnt – This matches "charred" directly, since charring is the result of burning.

Answer: D. burnt

Tip: In "nearest in meaning" questions, look for the option that matches the specific meaning of the word, not just the general idea. Here, "charred" has the word "char" (like charcoal), which should remind you of burning and blackened wood. Also use context. After a riot, vehicles are often set on fire.