The hostess told us it was _____ that caused her to serve dinner an hour later than usual.[ ]

______ an accurate map, you might not get lost in theforest.

It’s clear that the number of cars on the roads ______ rising with the development of the society.[ ]

John, a friend of mine, who got married only last week, spent $3,000 more than he ________ for the wedding.

Nowadays, there is a ________ increase in children’s creativity, for they are greatly encouraged todevelop their talents. [ ]