Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.

We deplore the use of ______ against innocent people.

violence

The most appropriate option to fill in the blank is violence.

Violence is the use of physical force to harm or injure another person. It is an unacceptable and harmful act, especially when it is used against innocent people.

The other options are not as appropriate.

• Reduction is the act of making something smaller or less in amount. It is not an appropriate word to use in the context of violence, because violence is not something that should be reduced.
• Gentleness is the quality of being kind and considerate. It is not an appropriate word to use in the context of violence, because violence is not something that should be gentle.
• Humor is the ability to make people laugh. It is not an appropriate word to use in the context of violence, because violence is not something that should be humorous.