The cu stoms off hec ked every pass enger m ore __ than n ormal beca use een w a rned to look out for s m ugglers. A) lazily B) timidly C) merely D) vitally E) rigorously

## Step 1<br />The problem is a multiple-choice question that tests your understanding of English vocabulary and context. The sentence is about customs officers who are more vigilant than usual because they are warned to look out for smugglers. <br /><br />## Step 2<br />The options provided are:<br />A) lazily<br />B) timidly<br />C) merely<br />D) vitally<br />E) rigorously<br /><br />## Step 3<br />We need to choose the word that best fits the context of the sentence. The sentence implies that the customs officers are being more careful and thorough due to the warning about smugglers. <br /><br />## Step 4<br />Looking at the options, the word "rigorously" (Option E) fits best. "Rigorously" means to do something with great care and attention to detail, which aligns with the context of the sentence. <br /><br />## Step 5<br />The other options do not fit the context. "Lazily" and "timidly" suggest a lack of thoroughness, which is the opposite of what the sentence is implying. "Merely" suggests a basic or minimal level of action, which is also not what the sentence is implying. "Vitally" means something is essential or crucial, which doesn't fit the context of the sentence.