Meaning: 'Ring' in this context means to sound familiar or to evoke a memory, often used in the phrase 'to ring a bell.'

Wrong options:

• call: 'Call' does not fit the idiomatic expression and implies a different meaning related to summoning or naming, which is not relevant here.
• peal: 'Peal' refers to a loud ringing of bells, which does not convey the intended meaning of familiarity or recognition.
• sound: 'Sound' is too general and does not specifically relate to the idiomatic expression that conveys familiarity.

Correct answer: quick

Explanation: The word 'quick' is appropriate here as it describes the speed at which Ranulf Flambard earned his reputation, fitting grammatically and contextually with the sentence structure. It indicates that he was able to gain recognition rapidly after moving to England.

Meaning: 'Quick' means fast or prompt, suggesting that he earned his reputation in a short amount of time.

Wrong options:

• good: 'Good' does not convey the sense of speed required in this context and is more about quality than timing.
• rapid: 'Rapid' is a synonym for quick but is less commonly used in this context, making 'quick' the more natural choice.
• clever: 'Clever' describes intelligence rather than speed, which does not fit the context of earning a reputation quickly.

Correct answer: dealing

Explanation: The word 'dealing' fits well as it refers to engaging in transactions or negotiations, which aligns with the context of financial activities. It is grammatically correct and contextually appropriate, indicating the nature of his dealings that the barons recognized.

Meaning: 'Dealing' refers to the act of conducting business or transactions, often with a connotation of shrewdness or cunning.

Wrong options:

• cheating: 'Cheating' implies dishonesty and does not fit the more neutral context of financial dealings that could be legitimate or illegitimate.
• winning: 'Winning' suggests a competitive victory rather than the transactional nature of financial dealings, making it contextually inappropriate.
• stealing: 'Stealing' implies theft, which is too negative and specific compared to the broader concept of 'dealing'.

Correct answer: changed

Explanation: The word 'changed' is suitable as it indicates a transformation in his luck, fitting grammatically and contextually with the narrative of his life. It suggests a shift from a positive to a negative situation, which is consistent with the arrival of a new king.

Meaning: 'Changed' means to become different, indicating that his circumstances took a turn for the worse.

Wrong options:

• altered: 'Altered' is a synonym for changed but is less commonly used in this context, making 'changed' the more natural choice.
• shifted: 'Shifted' implies a movement but lacks the emotional weight of 'changed,' which better conveys the impact on his luck.
• transformed: 'Transformed' suggests a more dramatic change than what is implied in the context, making 'changed' a more fitting choice.

Correct answer: distinguished

Explanation: The word 'distinguished' is appropriate as it conveys that he made a notable mark in his role as a builder, fitting grammatically and contextually with the sentence. It indicates that despite his controversial life, he achieved recognition for his contributions.

Meaning: 'Distinguished' means to be recognized for excellence or notable achievements, highlighting his accomplishments in architecture.

Wrong options:

• enjoyed: 'Enjoyed' does not fit the context of making a mark or being recognized; it implies personal satisfaction rather than achievement.
• embarrassed: 'Embarrassed' suggests a negative connotation that contradicts the positive context of his contributions as a builder.
• separated: 'Separated' does not relate to the context of achievement or recognition, making it irrelevant in this context.