Question

read the passage from etiquette, by emily post.
new yorks bad manners are often condemned and often very deservedly. even though the cause is carelessness rather than intentional indifference, the indifference is no less actual and the rudeness inexcusable.
what is the closest meaning of the underlined phrase as it used in the excerpt?
carefully scrutinized
justifiably criticized
undeniably improper
thoroughly convincing

Explanation:

The word "condemned" means to express strong disapproval or criticism. The phrase "very deservedly" implies that the criticism is justified. "Justifiably criticized" fits this meaning as it conveys that the criticism of New York's bad manners is reasonable. "Carefully scrutinized" means to examine closely, which doesn't match the context of criticism. "Undeniably improper" focuses on the impropriety rather than the act of criticism. "Thoroughly convincing" is about being persuasive, which is not relevant here.

Answer:

justifiably criticized