Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank.

In the past month, the price of oil has ______ several times.

fluctuated

The most appropriate word to fill in the blank is fluctuated.

• Fumbled means to handle something clumsily or awkwardly. This word does not make sense in the context of the sentence, as it does not describe the movement of the price of oil.
• Faltered means to hesitate or lose momentum. This word does not make sense in the context of the sentence, as it does not describe the movement of the price of oil.
• Failed means to not succeed or achieve a desired outcome. This word does not make sense in the context of the sentence, as it does not describe the movement of the price of oil.
• Fluctuated means to change or vary irregularly. This word is the best fit for the blank, as it describes the movement of the price of oil, which has been rising and falling several times in the past month.