Meaning: 'Taken' in this context means to adopt or accept a certain way of living or dwelling.

Wrong options:

• fallen: 'Fallen' implies a decline or drop, which does not fit the context of choosing a dwelling type.
• run: 'Run' suggests movement or operation, which is unrelated to the concept of dwelling.
• given: 'Given' implies providing or offering, which does not align with the context of adopting a dwelling style.

Correct answer: dash

Explanation: The verb 'dash' is appropriate here as it conveys a sense of urgency and quick movement, fitting the context of people rushing inside the walls for safety. It aligns with the tense and structure of the sentence, indicating a swift action in response to danger.

Meaning: 'Dash' means to run quickly or hurriedly, especially in a situation of urgency.

Wrong options:

• expedite: 'Expedite' means to make something happen sooner or more efficiently, which does not convey the urgency of rushing inside.
• gush: 'Gush' implies a flow of liquid or excessive emotion, which is not relevant to the context of entering a space quickly.
• inundate: 'Inundate' means to overwhelm, typically with water or information, which does not fit the action of entering quickly.

Correct answer: premium

Explanation: The noun 'premium' fits grammatically as it indicates something of high value or rarity, which is consistent with the context of limited space within the walls. It conveys that space was scarce and valuable, aligning with the overall message of the sentence.

Meaning: 'Premium' refers to something that is in high demand and limited supply, indicating that space was hard to come by.

Wrong options:

• rarity: While 'rarity' suggests something uncommon, it does not fit grammatically as it does not convey the idea of value as effectively as 'premium.'
• shortcoming: 'Shortcoming' implies a failure or deficiency, which does not accurately describe the value of space in this context.
• dearth: 'Dearth' means a lack or scarcity, but it does not convey the same sense of value that 'premium' does.

Correct answer: norm

Explanation: The noun 'norm' is suitable here as it indicates a standard or typical situation, which aligns with the context of flats being a common form of housing in cities like Paris. It fits grammatically and contextually, suggesting that flats were the usual arrangement.

Meaning: 'Norm' means a standard or typical condition, indicating that flats were the usual type of dwelling in urban areas.

Wrong options:

• average: 'Average' refers to a mean value and does not convey the same sense of standardization as 'norm.'
• par: 'Par' is typically used in contexts of equality or standard, but it does not fit the context of housing types.
• yardstick: 'Yardstick' is a measure of comparison, which does not appropriately describe the commonality of flats.

Correct answer: scattered

Explanation: The verb 'scattered' fits grammatically as it describes the distribution of houses across the countryside. It conveys the idea of homes being spread out, which aligns with the context of the sentence discussing rural living.

Meaning: 'Scattered' means to be spread out over a wide area, indicating that houses were not concentrated in one place.

Wrong options:

• messed: 'Messed' implies disorder or confusion, which does not accurately describe the arrangement of houses.
• littered: 'Littered' suggests a careless or untidy distribution, which does not fit the intended meaning of homes being spread out.
• sprayed: 'Sprayed' implies a dispersal method that does not apply to the context of housing distribution.