Which word completes the sentence: 'With r______ to your question about the deadlines, I'd like to reassure you that we are right on schedule.'

Which word completes the sentence: 'With r______ to your question about the deadlines, I'd like to reassure you that we are right on schedule.'

• A. Related
• B. Respect
• C. Reference
• D. Regarding

Answer: (C)

In formal email writing, the phrase that introduces the topic you’re referring to is often a fixed construction, and here the intended option is the noun form that combines with to to create “with reference to.” This shows you’re addressing or citing the previously mentioned matter—in this case, the deadlines. The sentence reads smoothly: “With reference to your question about the deadlines, I'd like to reassure you that we are right on schedule.” The other options don’t fit this exact established pattern as cleanly; they either don’t form a standard fixed phrase with to, or would alter the nuance of the sentence. Using reference keeps the tone precise and professional while directly linking to the prior question.

In formal email writing, the phrase that introduces the topic you’re referring to is often a fixed construction, and here the intended option is the noun form that combines with to to create “with reference to.” This shows you’re addressing or citing the previously mentioned matter—in this case, the deadlines. The sentence reads smoothly: “With reference to your question about the deadlines, I'd like to reassure you that we are right on schedule.” The other options don’t fit this exact established pattern as cleanly; they either don’t form a standard fixed phrase with to, or would alter the nuance of the sentence. Using reference keeps the tone precise and professional while directly linking to the prior question.