Craftsman Ben McCall is known for his exquisite pottery, ______ clay that has been carefully sourced from local riverbeds. In adhering to time-honored techniques, he meticulously molds the clay, fires it in a specialized kiln, and then carefully applies a glaze, each step contributing to unique pieces that stand apart from mass-produced items.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

Historians point out that while the technologies of the Industrial Revolution dramatically increased production capabilities, their effect on workers' satisfaction and well-being may have been ______: present but not significantly contributing to improvement in their overall quality of life.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

In contesting the assumption that the journal Glimpses into the Renaissance (1952) should encapsulate a homogeneous perspective on Renaissance art and culture, editor Lucia Marquez promoted the diversity of her contributors' viewpoints by endorsing their creative liberty. Marquez's understated approach was markedly different from the editorial policies of Ethan Wright and Sofia Barrett, whose management of their publications was more ______.
Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

During an archaeological exploration in India in 2019, a team of researchers stumbled upon evidence of early surgical instruments. This discovery could potentially ______ the long-standing presumption that the ancient society in this region did not engage in advanced medical procedures.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical and precise word or phrase?

The text is adapted from Murmurs of the Mind by Isabel Fenwick. The characters Miranda and Sebastian delve into the intricate nature of human memory.

       MIRANDA: Each memory we have, Sebastian, is like a whisper in the corridors of the mind. Fragile, yet somehow indelible.
       SEBASTIAN: Whispers are generally weak, aren't they?
       MIRANDA: No, they're not weak. They're just delicate entities, not entirely capable of withstanding the erosion of time.

As used in the text, what does the word “withstanding” most nearly mean?