A sentence has been given with a blank to be filled with an appropriate word. Choose the correct alternative.

When there are negative and toxic thoughts _____ your mind, you can never think positively.

clouding

The correct word to fill in the blank is clouding.

This is because negative and toxic thoughts can make it difficult to think clearly and positively. They can cloud our judgment and make it hard to see the good in any situation.

The other options are incorrect.

• Plotting means to plan something secretly or deviously. It does not make sense to say that negative and toxic thoughts are plotting in our minds.
• Shouting means to speak loudly and forcefully. It does not make sense to say that negative and toxic thoughts are shouting in our minds.
• Persuading means to convince someone to do something. It does not make sense to say that negative and toxic thoughts are persuading us to think negatively.