Meaning: 'Virtually' means 'almost' or 'nearly,' suggesting that the lifestyle would remain largely the same without music.

Wrong options:

• rarely: The word 'rarely' implies infrequency, which does not logically connect to the idea of lifestyle remaining unchanged.
• cynically: 'Cynically' conveys a distrustful attitude, which does not fit the context of discussing lifestyle changes.
• nearing: 'Nearing' suggests approaching a state, which does not align with the idea of being unchanged.

Correct answer: contrary

Explanation: The word 'contrary' fits grammatically as it serves as an adjective describing the position of the argument being made. Contextually, it indicates that the argument is in opposition to the previous viewpoint regarding music's role in humanity.

Meaning: 'Contrary' means 'opposite in nature, direction, or meaning,' indicating a viewpoint that opposes the idea that music is unimportant.

Wrong options:

• end: The word 'end' does not fit grammatically or contextually as it does not describe a position or viewpoint.
• whole: 'Whole' suggests completeness but does not convey opposition, making it irrelevant in this context.
• top: 'Top' implies a position of superiority or ranking, which does not relate to the argument's opposing nature.

Correct answer: avid

Explanation: The word 'avid' fits grammatically as it is an adjective describing Philip Ball's enthusiasm for music. Contextually, it conveys a strong interest or passion for music, aligning with the description of him as a music enthusiast.

Meaning: 'Avid' means having a keen interest or enthusiasm for something, indicating that he is very passionate about music.

Wrong options:

• pretentious: 'Pretentious' implies an attempt to impress by affecting greater importance, which does not accurately describe a genuine music enthusiast.
• presumptuous: 'Presumptuous' suggests overstepping boundaries or being bold in an inappropriate way, which does not fit the context of enthusiasm.
• ambitious: 'Ambitious' refers to a strong desire for success, which does not directly relate to a passion for music.

Correct answer: ingrained

Explanation: The word 'ingrained' fits grammatically as it is a past participle used as an adjective describing how music is embedded in our functions. Contextually, it suggests that music is deeply embedded in our cognitive and motor functions, indicating its fundamental role in human experience.

Meaning: 'Ingrained' means firmly fixed or established, indicating that music is an essential part of our functions.

Wrong options:

• enacted: 'Enacted' refers to something that has been made into law or put into action, which does not fit the context of music's role in our functions.
• installed: 'Installed' implies setting something up or placing it in position, which does not convey the deep-rooted nature of music in our functions.
• empowered: 'Empowered' suggests giving power or authority, which does not accurately describe the relationship between music and our cognitive functions.