The paleontologist's discovery of an entirely new species of dinosaur was met with widespread ______ among her peers, solidifying her reputation as a leading expert. Which pair of words, when inserted into the blank, best completes the sentence to produce two sentences alike in meaning?

The correct answer to the question "The paleontologist's discovery of an entirely new species of dinosaur was met with widespread ______ among her peers, solidifying her reputation as a leading expert. Which pair of words, when inserted into the blank, best completes the sentence to produce two sentences alike in meaning?" is Option B: approbation, acclaim.

The other options — A) skepticism, derision, C) censure, opprobrium, D) rejection, disdain — are incorrect for this GRE Exam Prep question. As explained above: The discovery 'solidified her reputation,' indicating positive reception. 'Approbation' and 'acclaim' both mean praise or approval, making them the most suitable pair that conveys a positive reaction.