Word choice in editing asks which term fits the intended meaning and grammatical surroundings. Near synonyms can differ in what they imply. Use the passage’s facts and register to choose a precise expression, then check that the verb, preposition or noun combination is idiomatic.
Reason through the task
Paraphrase the intended meaning without the choices. Determine whether the sentence reports evidence, makes an inference or states a guaranteed result. Compare degrees: suggests is weaker than proves, while describes is different from explains. Check ordinary word combinations such as dependent on or distinguish between. Do not choose a formal-sounding word when it changes the action or exaggerates confidence. Read the revised sentence as part of the paragraph, since neighboring statements may establish a deliberate limitation.
Worked example and a tempting error
Original example: “The small trial ___ that a larger study would be worthwhile.” Suggests fits preliminary evidence motivating inquiry. Proves overstates what a small trial can establish, while ensures would guarantee that the larger study is worthwhile, stronger than the preliminary evidence warrants. Denies reverses the relationship. The correct word preserves the trial’s useful but limited role. This is a semantic decision grounded in the paragraph, not a preference for the most cautious word in every sentence.
Try a different case
Transfer: “The researchers compared the shaded panels ___ the exposed panels.” With fits the straightforward comparison here. By would instead suggest a method; from does not complete this comparison construction. Now consider “The shaded panels differed from the exposed panels.” The preposition changes because the verb changes. Learn the relationship expressed by the entire phrase, rather than trying to use one memorized preposition with every comparison.