Directions: For the given question, select one entry for the blank to best complete the text.

The ball fell straight on the vase and ___________ it down and the vase shattered into pieces.

Option (1): The vase fell down and broke into pieces 'Knock down' fits well for the ball knocking the vase down. So, the answer is (1). Option (2): 'Overthrew it down' is inconsistent, ungrammatical and illogical. Option (3): Hit it 'down' is ungrammatical. Option (4): Punched is not appropriate word to express that the ball hit the vase as humans can punch or give a blow or holes can be punched. Thus, the option is ruled out. Option (5): 'Whacked' means striking with a blow. A ball cannot whack things down, humans can.