Meaning: 'Concept' means an abstract idea or a general notion, in this case, referring to how retirement is perceived.

Wrong options:

• trend: 'Trend' refers to a general direction in which something is developing or changing, but it does not convey the idea of a fundamental understanding or notion as 'concept' does.
• accept: 'Accept' is a verb meaning to receive or agree to something, which does not fit the grammatical structure needed in this context.
• range: 'Range' refers to a variety or extent of something, which does not align with the need for a noun that signifies a change in understanding.

Correct answer: delay

Explanation: The verb 'delay' is appropriate here as it indicates postponing retirement, which is the action encouraged by the government. It fits grammatically and contextually, as it directly relates to the need for mature workers to reconsider their retirement timing.

Meaning: 'Delay' means to postpone or put off to a later time, in this context, referring to postponing retirement.

Wrong options:

• rely: 'Rely' means to depend on something, which does not fit the context of changing the timing of retirement.
• supply: 'Supply' refers to providing something, which is not relevant to the action of changing retirement timing.
• comply: 'Comply' means to act in accordance with a wish or command, which does not convey the intended meaning of postponing retirement.

Correct answer: gradually

Explanation: The adverb 'gradually' fits well as it describes a slow and steady process of reducing hours, which aligns with the context of a phased approach to retirement. It is grammatically correct and contextually appropriate.

Meaning: 'Gradually' means slowly over a period of time, indicating that the reduction of hours happens in a step-by-step manner.

Wrong options:

• finally: 'Finally' suggests a conclusion or end point, which does not match the ongoing process of reducing hours.
• consecutively: 'Consecutively' implies a sequence without interruption, which does not accurately describe the gradual nature of the reduction in hours.
• greatly: 'Greatly' indicates a large extent, which contradicts the idea of a gradual process.

Correct answer: barriers

Explanation: The noun 'barriers' is suitable as it refers to obstacles that prevent movement or progress, which fits the context of removing obstacles between different life segments. It is grammatically correct and contextually relevant.

Meaning: 'Barriers' means obstacles or hindrances that prevent progress or movement, in this case, between different aspects of life.

Wrong options:

• carriers: 'Carriers' refers to those who carry something, which does not fit the context of obstacles in life transitions.
• slopes: 'Slopes' refers to inclines or gradients, which is unrelated to the concept of obstacles in life.
• approaches: 'Approaches' refers to methods or ways of doing something, which does not convey the idea of obstacles.

Correct answer: simultaneously

Explanation: The adverb 'simultaneously' is appropriate as it indicates that the needs of employers and employees are met at the same time, which aligns with the context of workforce planning. It is grammatically correct and contextually fitting.

Meaning: 'Simultaneously' means occurring at the same time, indicating that both employer and employee needs are addressed together.

Wrong options:

• unlikely: 'Unlikely' suggests something that is not probable, which does not fit the context of meeting needs.
• slightly: 'Slightly' means to a small degree, which does not convey the idea of simultaneous action.
• tightly: 'Tightly' implies a close or firm manner, which does not relate to the timing of meeting needs.