Meaning: 'Handle' means to manage or deal with something effectively, particularly in a responsible manner.

Wrong options:

• enable: While 'enable' suggests making something possible, it does not convey the active management implied in the context of responsibilities.
• construct: 'Construct' refers to building or creating, which does not apply to managing responsibilities like defense or policy.
• stage: 'Stage' implies organizing an event or performance, which is not relevant to the context of governance and responsibilities.

Correct answer: while

Explanation: The word 'while' serves as a conjunction that indicates a simultaneous action, fitting perfectly in the context of contrasting the central government's responsibilities with those of smaller units. It connects the two clauses effectively, showing that both actions occur at the same time.

Meaning: 'While' means during the time that; at the same time as, indicating that two actions are happening concurrently.

Wrong options:

• due to: 'Due to' indicates a reason or cause, which does not fit the context of contrasting responsibilities between levels of government.
• though: 'Though' suggests a concession or contrast but does not indicate simultaneous actions as 'while' does.
• after all: 'After all' implies a conclusion or justification, which does not fit the context of describing concurrent responsibilities.

Correct answer: autonomy

Explanation: The noun 'autonomy' fits grammatically as it refers to the degree of self-governance or independence that each level of government possesses. This aligns with the context of the division of powers, emphasizing the ability to make decisions within their jurisdiction.

Meaning: 'Autonomy' means the right or condition of self-government, particularly in a specific sphere, highlighting the independence of smaller political units.

Wrong options:

• opposition: 'Opposition' refers to resistance or dissent, which does not relate to the concept of governance and decision-making authority.
• economy: 'Economy' pertains to the management of resources or finances, which is not relevant to the context of governance and decision-making.
• suppression: 'Suppression' means the act of preventing something from being expressed or done, which contradicts the idea of self-rule and decision-making.

Correct answer: overall

Explanation: The word 'overall' functions as an adverb that summarizes the totality of the unity and function of the nation. It fits contextually as it emphasizes the collective aspect of governance, indicating how diverse regions contribute to the nation's unity.

Meaning: 'Overall' means taking everything into account; in general, indicating a comprehensive view of the unity and function of the nation.

Wrong options:

• eligible: 'Eligible' refers to being qualified or entitled to something, which does not fit the context of discussing unity and governance.
• final: 'Final' implies something that is last or conclusive, which does not relate to the ongoing nature of unity and governance.
• superficial: 'Superficial' means lacking depth or significance, which contradicts the importance of unity and function in the context of governance.