Reagan uses the word gash in the first paragraph of this speech. In
each sentence below, the underlined word shares the same denota-
tion, or general literal meaning, as gash: "deep cut."
Which underlined word has connotations most clearly opposite to
gash as Reagan uses it in his speech?


A. To begin the operation, the surgeon made an incision in the patient.

B. With a gouge like that in the door, the car is worth much less.

C. A laceration that deep should be treated with antibiotics.

D. The cat made a slash in the cushions that let the stuffing out.