Fill in the Blanks

Under is the correct preposition to describe something positioned directly beneath an object like a table. Below is often used for relative position but is less specific than under for this context.

To see someone off is a phrasal verb meaning to go to a station or airport to say goodbye to someone who is leaving.

Wanders means to walk or move in a leisurely or aimless way, which fits the context of moving through a jungle. Wonders means to desire to know something or to be filled with admiration.

Brim refers to the upper edge of a container, especially a cup or glass. Rim is a more general term for an edge, but brim is specifically used for filling a container to the top.

By is the correct preposition to indicate proximity or location near the river. Along would imply movement parallel to the river.

The subject 'No one' is an indefinite pronoun that takes a singular verb. Therefore, 'is' is the correct choice, while 'are' is grammatically incorrect.

The verb 'cater' means to provide what is needed or desired, which fits the context of a bookstore serving various tastes.

The infinitive 'to' follows the blank. Hence, pandering is the only option which fits. Pandeing means to give someone what they want, although it may not be good or right for them

In this context, the speaker is talking about lessening or mitigating fears. 'Reduce' fits naturally to describe making fears smaller or less intense.

The verb 'ascribed' means to attribute something to a cause, which is the correct usage when linking a defeat to tactical errors.

Anonymity refers to the state of being unknown, which is a common characteristic associated with living in a large city. Obscurity implies being forgotten or unimportant, while distinctiveness contradicts the typical experience of city life.

Assailed means to attack violently, which fits the context of furious criticism. Hailed means to cheer or acclaim, which is the opposite of criticism.

Assent is the correct verb meaning to express agreement or approval, typically used with the preposition to. Accept and approve do not take the preposition to in this context.

Assuage means to make an unpleasant feeling less intense, such as fears or pain. While soothe is a synonym, assuage is the more precise formal term for mitigating abstract fears.

To cast aspersions is a standard idiomatic expression meaning to make critical or disparaging remarks about someone. Slanders is a noun that does not fit the phrase structure.