Meaning: 'Not to mention' means 'in addition to' or 'besides,' indicating that the external presentations are another layer of responsibility on top of the internal ones.

Wrong options:

• let alone: 'Let alone' implies a contrast or a lesser degree, which does not fit the context of adding another responsibility.
• besides: 'Besides' is similar to 'not to mention' but is less formal and does not fit as smoothly in this context.
• alongside: 'Alongside' suggests simultaneous action but does not convey the additional burden of external presentations.

Correct answer: expected

Explanation: The word 'expected' fits grammatically as it indicates a standard or requirement for senior executives, aligning with the context of the sentence about the skills needed for presentations.

Meaning: 'Expected' means that there is a belief or assumption that someone should be able to do something, in this case, to present well.

Wrong options:

• demanded: 'Demanded' implies a forceful requirement, which is too strong for the context of professional expectations.
• called: 'Called' is vague and does not convey the same level of obligation as 'expected.'
• desired: 'Desired' suggests a wish rather than a requirement, which does not fit the context of professional standards.

Correct answer: bring

Explanation: The verb 'bring' is appropriate here as it indicates the act of delivering one's passion and enthusiasm to the presentation, fitting grammatically and contextually with the sentence structure.

Meaning: 'Bring' means to carry or convey something with you, in this case, your enthusiasm and conviction to the presentation.

Wrong options:

• bear: 'Bear' typically means to carry or endure, which does not fit the context of actively delivering enthusiasm.
• convey: 'Convey' means to communicate or express, but it lacks the personal touch implied by 'bring.'
• deliver: 'Deliver' suggests a more formal presentation of information, which does not capture the personal involvement of enthusiasm.

Correct answer: put

Explanation: The verb 'put' is the correct choice as it is commonly used in the phrase 'put questions to someone,' fitting both grammatically and contextually in the sentence about audience inquiries.

Meaning: 'Put' in this context means to ask or present questions to someone, particularly in a formal setting.

Wrong options:

• make: 'Make' does not typically collocate with 'questions' in this context, making it grammatically incorrect here.
• request: 'Request' implies a formal asking but does not fit the common phrasing used with questions.
• propose: 'Propose' suggests suggesting an idea rather than asking a question, which does not fit the context.

Correct answer: outset

Explanation: The word 'outset' fits grammatically and contextually as it refers to the beginning of an event or process, aligning with the idea of starting a presentation positively.

Meaning: 'Outset' means the start or beginning of something, indicating the importance of establishing a positive tone from the very beginning of the presentation.

Wrong options:

• outcome: 'Outcome' refers to the result of an event, which does not fit the context of starting a presentation.
• outlook: 'Outlook' refers to a perspective or view, which is not relevant to the beginning of a presentation.
• output: 'Output' refers to the result of a process, which does not apply to the initial phase of a presentation.

Correct answer: common

Explanation: The adjective 'common' is suitable here as it describes shared ground that is relatable to the audience, fitting both grammatically and contextually in the sentence.

Meaning: 'Common' means something that is shared or mutual among people, indicating a point of connection for the audience.

Wrong options:

• mututal: 'Mututal' is a misspelling of 'mutual,' which means shared, but it does not fit the context as well as 'common.'
• shared: 'Shared' is similar but does not convey the same level of familiarity and relatability as 'common.'
• similar: 'Similar' suggests likeness but does not imply the shared understanding that 'common' does.