India’s longtime preference for sons is due to traditions around inheritance and _______, which can turn a daughter’s wedding into a heavy financial burden.
dowry
They have been __________ their border defences in preparation for war.
strengthening
The refugees arriving at the camp had _________ stories to tell.
pitiful
Women __________ about ten percent of Parliament.
constitute
The company's ________ has greatly improved: profit rose more than 50 percent last year.
income
This is one of the many problems _________ by working mothers.
faced
They use special chemicals to __________ the growth of crops.
accelerate
The evening was a _________ affair with glorious food and an endless supply of champagne.
lavish
His mother's death when he was aged six had a very _________ effect on him.
profound
I seem to have ___________ two copies of this book.
acquired
