A.I. Explanation:

Correct answer: given away

Explanation: The phrase 'given away' fits grammatically as it indicates that the beam may have been relinquished or transferred to an electronic lock. This aligns with the context of discussing the evolution of security measures, where the past physical means of securing a home are being replaced by modern technology.

Meaning: 'Given away' means to transfer possession of something to someone else, often without expecting anything in return.

Wrong options:

• taken on: 'Taken on' implies assuming responsibility or a role, which does not fit the context of transferring a physical object to a lock.
• handed down: 'Handed down' suggests passing something from one generation to another, which is not relevant here as it does not pertain to the action of transferring to a lock.
• passed over: 'Passed over' means to overlook or ignore, which contradicts the idea of actively transferring something to the lock.

Correct answer: urge

Explanation: The word 'urge' fits well as it conveys a strong desire or impulse to act, which is consistent with the context of wanting to protect oneself from potential threats. It aligns grammatically and contextually with the sentence's focus on human instincts.

Meaning: 'Urge' refers to a strong desire or impulse to do something.

Wrong options:

• force: 'Force' implies physical strength or coercion, which does not accurately capture the psychological aspect of wanting to shut out threats.
• craving: 'Craving' suggests a deep longing for something, typically related to desires like food or substances, which is not appropriate in this context.
• shove: 'Shove' indicates a physical push, which does not relate to the psychological desire to keep out 'bad guys.'

Correct answer: extent

Explanation: The term 'extent' is suitable as it refers to the degree or scope of something, which fits the context of discussing the psychological appeal of locks and keys. It is grammatically correct and logically aligns with the sentence's meaning.

Meaning: 'Extent' means the range or degree to which something exists or is relevant.

Wrong options:

• rate: 'Rate' typically refers to a measure of frequency or speed, which does not fit the context of psychological appeal.
• measure: 'Measure' implies quantifying something, which does not align with the qualitative nature of psychological appeal discussed here.
• scale: 'Scale' suggests a system of measurement or range, which is not appropriate in the context of discussing psychological aspects.

Correct answer: command

Explanation: The word 'command' fits perfectly as it refers to an instruction or directive given to a system, which is relevant in the context of electronic locks being controlled by smart cards. It is grammatically and contextually appropriate.

Meaning: 'Command' means an authoritative order or instruction, particularly in the context of technology.

Wrong options:

• directive: 'Directive' implies an official instruction, which is too formal and does not fit the casual context of the sentence.
• rule: 'Rule' suggests a guideline or principle, which does not accurately describe the action of controlling locks.
• manipulation: 'Manipulation' implies skillful handling or control, which does not fit the straightforward context of issuing a command to a lock.

Correct answer: prepared

Explanation: The word 'prepared' is appropriate as it indicates readiness to accept or deal with something, which fits the context of tolerating electronic locks at work but preferring traditional methods at home. It is grammatically correct and contextually relevant.

Meaning: 'Prepared' means being ready or equipped to deal with a situation.

Wrong options:

• reable: 'Reable' is not a standard English word and does not convey any meaning in this context.
• agreeable: 'Agreeable' suggests a willingness to accept something, but it does not convey the readiness implied by 'prepared.'
• geared: 'Geared' implies being equipped or designed for a specific purpose, which does not fit the context of personal readiness.

Correct answer: reassurance

Explanation: The term 'reassurance' fits well as it conveys a sense of comfort or confidence, which aligns with the desire for security when using a physical key. It is grammatically correct and contextually appropriate.

Meaning: 'Reassurance' means a feeling of confidence or comfort that alleviates anxiety.

Wrong options:

• guarantee: 'Guarantee' implies a promise or assurance, which is too formal and does not capture the emotional comfort aspect.
• endorsement: 'Endorsement' refers to approval or support, which does not fit the context of personal security and comfort.
• confirmation: 'Confirmation' suggests verification or affirmation, which does not align with the emotional aspect of feeling secure.