From the given options, select the most appropriate expression to fill in the blank in the given sentence:-
The athlete's career took a dramatic ____ after her record-breaking performance.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 4
The correct answer is Option (4) → upward trajectory
The sentence states that the athlete had a record-breaking performance, which is a highly positive event. Therefore, the phrase describing the subsequent career path should also be positive.
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Upward trajectory (Noun Phrase): A path or direction of development that is leading toward a higher or more successful level. This perfectly matches the idea of a career improving dramatically after a major success.
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:
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Close call: A narrow escape from danger or disaster (unrelated to career path after success).
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Lasting impression: A memorable effect or influence (describes the performance itself, not the resulting career path).
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Downward spiral: A situation, usually a negative one, that continually gets worse (contradicts the positive trigger of a record-breaking performance).