Verbal Ability/Word-usage Practice

Verbal Ability/Word-usage 2 / 50

Choose the option in which the usage of the word is incorrect or inappropriate: stand

A. The committee decided to stand by its earlier decision, despite facing public criticism.
B. It stands to reason that increased investment in education leads to greater societal progress.
C. Despite repeated attempts, the old structure could not stand to the harsh winds of the hurricane.
D. He had to stand on his own two feet after his parents moved abroad, learning to manage his finances independently.

The incorrect or inappropriate usage of the word "stand" is in the third option: "Despite repeated attempts, the old structure could not stand to the harsh winds of the hurricane."
Why it's wrong:
The standard idiomatic expression for resisting or enduring something, such as pressure or physical forces, is "stand up to" or simply "withstand." The phrase "stand to" is not used in this context to convey resistance.
Correct usage: "Despite repeated attempts, the old structure could not stand up to the harsh winds of the hurricane."

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