The couple had quarreled all time before they 　　　     their engagement

Is that the reason ________he explained to all at the meeting for his carelessness in his work?  Actually we think he is a man who is hard ________ himself especially in work. 

 —May I speak to Tom, please?—But he  ____ for work an hour ago.

The government has taken measures to ____ the high prices of daily goods to keep the market stable.

---Cliff, I lost your bike at school. I suppose I should pay for it.---Oh, ______. It was an old bike anyway.