Fill in the blank with the correct word from the options given below to make a meaningful sentence:

Pardon my _____, I did not know that the path would lead to a dead-end.

ignorance

The correct answer is Option (1) → ignorance

• Ignorance: This refers to a lack of knowledge, information, or awareness about something. In the context of the sentence, it suggests that the speaker was unaware of the dead-end path, making it a suitable fit.

• Impiety: This refers to a lack of respect or reverence for religious practices or beliefs. Using "impiety" in this sentence would not make sense, as it does not relate to the context of not knowing about a path.

• Contempt: This refers to a feeling of disdain or disrespect towards someone or something. In this sentence, "contempt" would imply the speaker had a negative feeling towards the path, which does not fit the context of admitting a lack of knowledge.

• Resolution: This refers to a firm decision to do or not do something. It does not apply to the context of the sentence, as the speaker is not talking about a decision but rather a lack of knowledge about the path.