Question

read this newspaper headline:
neighborhood leaders demand an inquiry about pollution
which change to the wording of this headline would make it more neutral without changing the overall meaning?

a. neighborhood leaders request an inquiry about pollution
b. neighborhood leaders want an inquiry about pollution
c. neighborhood leaders retract a request for a hearing about pollution
d. neighborhood leaders force an inquiry about pollution

Explanation:

To make the headline neutral, we need a word that conveys the leaders' desire for an inquiry without implying a forceful (like "Demand") or changed meaning (like "Retract" or "Force"). "Request" and "Want" are neutral, but we check the original meaning. "Demand" is strong; "Request" is a more neutral term for asking, and "Want" is also neutral. But we need to match the original meaning (asking for an inquiry). Option A: "Request" is a neutral alternative to "Demand" (both mean asking for the inquiry), while "Want" is more casual. Option C changes the meaning (retract is opposite), D implies forcing (not neutral). So A is the best as it keeps the meaning (asking for inquiry) and is neutral.

Answer:

A. Neighborhood Leaders Request an Inquiry About Pollution