Select the word that best expresses the meaning of the underlined word. A…

Concept

A synonym question asks for the word whose meaning is closest to the target word in the given sense. The underlined word "disgrace" (as a noun) means the loss of honour or respect that results from dishonourable conduct — in short, a state of dishonour or shame. To answer, match this core sense, not merely a loosely related idea.

Application

In the sentence, "A corrupt officer is a disgrace to the whole department," the corrupt officer brings dishonour upon the department — the department is shamed by the officer's conduct. The word that carries this exact sense of dishonour/loss-of-respect is "shame."

Contrast

• Disgust — a feeling of strong revulsion or distaste; it describes an emotional reaction, not loss of honour.

• Disturbance — an interruption of order or calm (a commotion); unrelated to dishonour.

• Scandal — a publicised incident of wrongdoing that causes outrage; it names an event, whereas "disgrace" names the resulting state of dishonour.

• Shame — dishonour and loss of respect; this matches the core sense of "disgrace" exactly.

Therefore the word that best expresses the meaning of "disgrace" is "shame."