Select the correct option (Phrasal Verb) for the blank left in the sentence :
Cholera has _____ in this village.

Question

Select the correct option (Phrasal Verb) for the blank left in the sentence : 
Cholera has _____ in this village.

Accepted Answer

1. Explanation for Option 1 ("broken out"):

The phrase "broken out" is a phrasal verb commonly used to describe the sudden start or occurrence of something, especially in the context of diseases, conflicts, or fires. In the sentence "Cholera has _____ in this village," the use of "broken out" is appropriate because it conveys the idea that cholera has suddenly appeared or started spreading in the village. This aligns with the typical usage of "broken out" when referring to the onset of an epidemic or outbreak, making it the correct choice for the sentence.

2. Explanation for why the other options are incorrect:

- Option 2 ("broken down"): The phrasal verb "broken down" is typically used to describe something that has stopped functioning or is in a state of disrepair, such as a machine or vehicle. It can also refer to a person becoming emotionally overwhelmed. It does not fit the context of a disease starting to spread, so it is not suitable for this sentence.

- Option 3 ("broken up"): "Broken up" is often used to describe the ending of a relationship, the dispersal of a group, or the division of something into smaller parts. It does not convey the idea of a disease starting or spreading, making it an incorrect choice for this context.

- Option 4 ("broken off"): The phrase "broken off" is used to describe something that has been detached or separated from a larger whole, or the cessation of an activity or relationship. It does not relate to the sudden onset of a disease, so it is not appropriate for this sentence.

In conclusion, "broken out" is the correct phrasal verb to use in the sentence because it accurately describes the sudden emergence or spread of cholera in the village, which is consistent with the typical usage of this expression in the context of disease outbreaks.