Meaning: 'Underrated' means not given enough appreciation or recognition, indicating that the need for interest and wonder is more significant than it is often perceived.

Wrong options:

• understood: 'Understood' implies comprehension, which does not convey the idea of value or importance in this context.
• underscored: 'Underscored' means emphasized, which contradicts the idea of not making demands on the need for interest and wonder.
• undercut: 'Undercut' suggests undermining or reducing, which does not fit the context of recognizing the importance of these psychological prerequisites.

Correct answer: transforming

Explanation: The word 'transforming' is a gerund that fits grammatically as it describes the action of changing old friends into new ones. Contextually, it aligns with the idea of evolving relationships, which is essential for a vibrant social life.

Meaning: 'Transforming' means changing something into a different state or form, indicating the process of renewing friendships by discovering new aspects of familiar people.

Wrong options:

• translating: 'Translating' refers to converting from one language to another, which does not apply to the context of changing relationships.
• transiting: 'Transiting' implies passing through, which does not convey the idea of a significant change in relationships.
• transforming: This option is the correct answer, so it cannot be considered incorrect.

Correct answer: springs

Explanation: The word 'springs' fits grammatically as a noun that refers to sources or origins. Contextually, it suggests that the natural sources of social life are diminishing, which aligns with the overall theme of the passage.

Meaning: 'Springs' means sources or origins, indicating the fundamental aspects of social life that are becoming less prevalent.

Wrong options:

• sources: While 'sources' is a synonym, it does not fit the stylistic tone of the passage as well as 'springs.'
• souvenirs: 'Souvenirs' refers to mementos or keepsakes, which is unrelated to the context of social life.
• spasms: 'Spasms' implies sudden involuntary movements, which does not relate to the concept of social life.

Correct answer: routine

Explanation: The word 'routine' fits grammatically as a noun that describes a regular pattern of behavior. Contextually, it conveys the monotonous nature of daily life that stifles social interaction, aligning with the passage's theme.

Meaning: 'Routine' refers to a regular, habitual way of doing things, indicating the repetitive nature of making a living that detracts from social life.

Wrong options:

• roster: A 'roster' is a list of names or duties, which does not relate to the context of daily life and social interaction.
• rat-race: While 'rat-race' conveys a similar idea, it is more informal and does not fit the formal tone of the passage as well as 'routine.'
• revelation: 'Revelation' refers to a surprising or previously unknown fact, which does not fit the context of daily life.

Correct answer: social

Explanation: The word 'social' fits grammatically as an adjective that describes the type of feelings experienced. Contextually, it aligns with the theme of social dynamics and interactions among people.

Meaning: 'Social' refers to anything related to society or social interactions, indicating that feelings of hostility arise in social contexts.

Wrong options:

• sinister: 'Sinister' implies something harmful or evil, which does not accurately describe the feelings in a social context.
• severe: 'Severe' suggests something harsh or intense, which does not fit the emotional tone of the passage.
• solicit-in: This option is not a standard English word and does not fit grammatically or contextually.