Meaning: 'Said' means to express something in words, often used to report speech or thoughts.

Wrong options:

• regarded: 'Regarded' implies a judgment or opinion, which does not fit the context of reporting an invention.
• presented: 'Presented' suggests a formal introduction, which is not appropriate here as it does not convey the idea of reporting an opinion or belief.
• proposed: 'Proposed' indicates suggesting an idea, which does not align with the context of stating a fact about Cook's contribution.

Correct answer: hit

Explanation: The word 'hit' is used here to indicate that Thomas Cook suddenly came up with or realized the idea of using railways for pleasure trips. It fits the context of a sudden inspiration and is grammatically correct in the past tense.

Meaning: 'Hit' in this context means to suddenly think of or discover something.

Wrong options:

• dawned: 'Dawned' suggests a gradual realization, which does not convey the immediacy implied by 'hit'.
• struck: 'Struck' could work but is less common in this context compared to 'hit', which is more idiomatic for sudden ideas.
• crossed: 'Crossed' typically refers to moving from one side to another, which does not fit the context of coming up with an idea.

Correct answer: forerunner

Explanation: The word 'forerunner' indicates something that precedes and serves as a model for what follows, which is appropriate here as it describes the handbook as a precursor to modern holiday brochures. It fits both grammatically and contextually.

Meaning: 'Forerunner' means something that comes before another thing and paves the way for it.

Wrong options:

• pioneer: 'Pioneer' implies being the first to do something, which is not the intended meaning in this context as it does not specifically refer to a model or example.
• prior: 'Prior' indicates something that existed before but lacks the connotation of serving as a model or example.
• foretaste: 'Foretaste' suggests a sample or preview, which does not accurately describe the handbook's role as a precursor.

Correct answer: inspired

Explanation: The word 'inspired' fits grammatically and contextually as it indicates that the Paris Exhibition motivated Cook to create his first great tour. It aligns with the past tense and conveys the idea of influence effectively.

Meaning: 'Inspired' means to fill someone with the urge or ability to do something, particularly creative or innovative.

Wrong options:

• livened: 'Livened' suggests making something more lively or exciting, which does not accurately capture the influence of the exhibition on Cook's actions.
• initiated: 'Initiated' implies starting something, which does not convey the motivational aspect of Cook's response to the exhibition.
• launched: 'Launched' suggests starting an event or project, which does not fit the context of being motivated by inspiration.

Correct answer: breakthrough

Explanation: The word 'breakthrough' fits well as it indicates a significant development or achievement, which is appropriate in describing Cook's remarkable journey along the Rhine. It aligns with the context of innovation and progress.

Meaning: 'Breakthrough' refers to a significant and dramatic development or discovery, often in a positive context.

Wrong options:

• step: 'Step' is too vague and does not convey the significance of the achievement as effectively as 'breakthrough'.
• leap: 'Leap' suggests a jump or sudden movement, which does not capture the essence of a significant achievement in the same way as 'breakthrough'.
• headway: 'Headway' implies progress but lacks the connotation of a major achievement or innovation that 'breakthrough' provides.