Meaning: 'Threshold' means the starting point or entrance to a new phase, particularly in this context, it refers to the beginning of one's career.

Wrong options:

• level: 'Level' suggests a stage of progression rather than the initial entry point, making it less suitable in this context.
• downfall: 'Downfall' implies a decline or failure, which contradicts the positive connotation of starting a career.
• failure: 'Failure' denotes a lack of success, which is not relevant to the context of beginning a career.

Correct answer: salutary

Explanation: The term 'salutary' means beneficial or promoting health, which fits well in the context of business education, suggesting that the experience of sweeping is advantageous for young men. It is grammatically correct as an adjective describing the type of branch in education.

Meaning: 'Salutary' refers to something that is beneficial or has a positive effect, especially in terms of learning and growth.

Wrong options:

• beginning: 'Beginning' does not convey the idea of benefit or advantage, making it less appropriate in this context.
• initial: 'Initial' simply denotes the first stage without implying any positive impact, which is crucial in this context.
• future: 'Future' refers to what is to come, which does not fit the context of describing a beneficial experience in the present.

Correct answer: absent

Explanation: The word 'absent' indicates that the professional sweeper is not present, which fits grammatically as an adjective describing the state of the sweeper. Contextually, it aligns with the scenario where the boy would take on the task if the sweeper is not there.

Meaning: 'Absent' means not present or missing, indicating that the sweeper is not available to perform the task.

Wrong options:

• gone: 'Gone' implies that the sweeper has left permanently, which does not fit the temporary context of a morning absence.
• raised: 'Raised' does not make sense in this context as it refers to lifting or increasing something, not the presence of a person.
• spill: 'Spill' is unrelated to the context of presence and does not fit grammatically or contextually.

Correct answer: genius

Explanation: The term 'genius' refers to exceptional intellectual or creative power, which fits grammatically as a noun indicating a quality or potential within the boy. Contextually, it suggests that the boy has the innate ability to become a future partner, making it a fitting choice.

Meaning: 'Genius' means a person with exceptional intellectual or creative ability, indicating the boy's potential for success in business.

Wrong options:

• aim: 'Aim' refers to a goal or purpose, which does not convey the same level of inherent ability or potential as 'genius.'
• idea: 'Idea' suggests a thought or concept, which does not capture the essence of exceptional talent or capability needed in this context.
• fear: 'Fear' denotes an emotion of apprehension, which is contrary to the positive connotation of having potential for success.