To assume the ____ of leadership means to take on the role of leader.

To assume the ____ of leadership means to take on the role of leader.

• A. Dour
• B. Assuage
• C. Mantle
• D. Moribund

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is the common idiom that describes taking on a leadership role. Mantle, in this sense, means a figurative cloak of responsibility and authority one assumes. When you “assume the mantle of leadership,” you’re accepting the duties, power, and expectations that come with leading. That nuance makes it the best fit for the sentence. Dour describes a harsh, stern attitude or mood, not the act of taking on a role. Assuage means to calm or ease, which isn’t about assuming leadership responsibilities. Moribund means near death or stagnating, which has nothing to do with accepting a position of leadership.

The idea being tested is the common idiom that describes taking on a leadership role. Mantle, in this sense, means a figurative cloak of responsibility and authority one assumes. When you “assume the mantle of leadership,” you’re accepting the duties, power, and expectations that come with leading. That nuance makes it the best fit for the sentence.

Dour describes a harsh, stern attitude or mood, not the act of taking on a role. Assuage means to calm or ease, which isn’t about assuming leadership responsibilities. Moribund means near death or stagnating, which has nothing to do with accepting a position of leadership.