Touchy is the most suitable replacement for "ticklish" in the passage, accurately conveying the sensitivity and instability of black powder to specific conditions, such as moisture or formulation variations. Here option 3 is correct.
The word that best replaces "ticklish" in the given passage is "touchy." In the context provided, the term "ticklish" is used to describe the sensitivity or instability of black powder.
The sentence implies that black powder is sensitive to specific conditions, and using the word "touchy" maintains the idea of being easily affected or triggered by external factors.
Touchy aligns closely with the meaning of "ticklish" in this context, as it conveys the notion of being sensitive or delicate, particularly in response to variations in moisture or the formulation of the powder. The other options do not capture the nuanced meaning of "ticklish" as well in the given context. Here option 3 is correct.
Complete question:
Which of the following words best replaces ticklish as it is used in the passage below (paragraph 6)?
"Black powder is ticklish stuff. When its damp, nothing will set it off. When it's too dry or mixed in the wrong formula, almost anything can set it off, without warning."
1. Calm
2. Exciting
3. Touchy
4. Halarious