Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.

Discipline must be __________ at any cost.

maintained

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

Discipline is the ability to control one's own behavior, especially in difficult situations. It is important to maintain discipline in order to achieve goals and to function effectively in society. The phrase "maintained at any cost" means that discipline must be kept up at all times, even when it is difficult.

The other options are not as appropriate in this context.

• Instructed means to give someone directions or information. This is not the same as maintaining discipline.
• Curtailed means to reduce or restrict something. This is not the opposite of maintaining discipline. In fact, it could be argued that curtailing discipline would lead to problems.
• Highlighted means to draw attention to something. This is not the same as maintaining discipline.