1. Barely ________ the speech when the audience erupted in applause.

2. It is recommended that the company ________ its security protocols immediately.

3. If it hadn't been for the government subsidy, the factory ________ shut down.

4. The architect was seen ________ the site plan with the builders.

5. The recent financial scandal has cast a shadow ________ the entire banking industry.

6. In no way ________ endorse such unethical practices.

7. I would sooner you ________ a vegetarian diet for a month to see if it helps your health.

8. The scientists are trying to ________ a new method of water purification.

9. ________ having the necessary qualifications, he was turned down for the job.

10. You should take some cash with you ________ the shop doesn't accept credit cards.

11. By the end of this century, the global population ________ to over 10 billion.

12. I found his explanation of the theory rather ________ and hard to follow.

13. The more data you analyze, ________ insight you will gain.

14. She behaved as though she ________ the sole owner of the intellectual property.

15. The document, ________ to all employees, outlines the new policy.

16. The failure of the mission was largely ________ on poor communication.

17. I didn't ________ to interrupt you; please continue your presentation.

18. Only after reviewing the footage ________ identify the suspect.

19. The report strongly ________ the need for immediate climate action.

20. He was ________ with drug trafficking and money laundering.

21. We deeply regret ________ the bad news to you.

22. She ________ issue with the manager's decision to cut bonuses.

23. He is the best negotiator ________ can secure the deal.

24. If only I ________ a bit more cautious during the negotiation!

25. The task was ________ challenging that we needed extra help.