Fill in the blank with the suitable word from the options given below:-

The company's growth was _____ by the adverse change in the market regulations.

hindered

The correct answer is Option (4) → hindered

The sentence structure implies a negative effect on the company's growth due to an adverse (unfavorable/negative) change in market regulations.

• Hindered: Means to obstruct or delay the progress of something. This perfectly matches the context where a negative regulation change would slow down or stop growth. 

  Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:

  • Augmented: Means to increase or make larger. (Contradicts the negative meaning of "adverse change.")

  • Facilitated: Means to make an action or process easy or easier. (Contradicts the negative meaning of "adverse change.")

  • Propelled: Means to drive, push, or move forward. (Contradicts the negative meaning of "adverse change.")