Question

Rhonda is suspicious about Adam's statement that his company cannot afford her product. Her latest research on the firm suggests that not only do they need the new piece of equipment but also that financing can be obtained from a local bank. In fact, something about the tone of his voice makes her believe that this was just a(n) _____ to hide his real objection to buying.

A) Excuse
B) Deception
C) Rationale
D) Dilemma

Answer 1

Rhonda believes Adam's claim that his company can't afford her product is just an excuse, a notion reinforced by her research and his tone. An 'excuse' in this context is a pretext Adam is using, potentially to mask his true objection to the purchase.

Step-by-step explanation:

Based on the context provided, the most appropriate word to fill in the blank in Rhonda's statement about Adam's company not affording her product is excuse. An excuse is a reason or explanation put forward to defend or justify a fault or offense. In this scenario, Rhonda feels that Adam's claim of the company not being able to afford the product is not genuine, particularly since research suggests the company does need the equipment and could obtain financing. The fact that Rhonda is picking up on the tone of Adam's voice further implies that she believes his statement is just a pretext rather than a real obstacle.

In a somewhat related scenario described by the SEO text provided, a businessman who feels deserving of a raise avoids asking his manager for one and instead tells himself that 'hard work is its own reward.' This reflects not a blatant excuse, but rather a self-comforting rationale, possibly masking his fear of rejection or the discomfort of negotiating a raise.