Meaning: A 'burden' refers to a heavy load or responsibility that is difficult to bear.

Wrong options:

• increase: The word 'increase' is a noun but does not fit the context of describing a negative impact; it suggests a rise rather than a burden.
• collapse: The term 'collapse' implies a complete failure or breakdown, which does not accurately describe the situation of rising prices affecting the population.
• gradually: 'Gradually' is an adverb that describes a slow process, which does not fit as a noun to describe the impact of rising prices.
• sharply: 'Sharply' is also an adverb that indicates a sudden change, but it cannot serve as a noun to describe the burden on the population.

Correct answer: sharply

Explanation: The adverb 'sharply' fits grammatically as it modifies the verb 'risen,' indicating a sudden and significant increase in energy bills. This aligns with the context of the rising costs in Greece.

Meaning: 'Sharply' means in a sudden and intense manner, indicating a steep rise in prices.

Wrong options:

• burden: 'Burden' is a noun and does not fit as an adverb to describe how energy bills have risen.
• increase: 'Increase' is a noun that does not appropriately modify the verb 'risen' in this context.
• collapse: 'Collapse' is a noun that does not describe the manner in which prices have changed and is irrelevant here.
• gradually: 'Gradually' is an adverb that suggests a slow increase, which contradicts the context of a sudden rise in bills.

Correct answer: edge

Explanation: The word 'edge' fits grammatically as a noun that describes a precarious or critical state, which aligns with the context of living close to poverty. It conveys the idea of being on the brink of a difficult situation.

Meaning: The 'edge' refers to a boundary or limit, in this case, indicating a precarious financial situation.

Wrong options:

• burden: 'Burden' is a noun that does not fit in this context as it does not describe a state of living.
• increase: 'Increase' is a noun that does not convey the idea of being close to poverty and is not appropriate here.
• collapse: 'Collapse' implies a complete failure, which does not accurately describe the state of living on the edge of poverty.
• gradually: 'Gradually' is an adverb that does not fit as a noun to describe a state of living.