English

An encyclopedia is a comprehensive reference work containing information on all branches of knowledge, making option A correct. The other options do not relate to this definition.

The phrase "Hold one's horses" means to be patient or wait before acting. Option C correctly reflects this meaning as "Have patience."

The word 'abject' can mean extremely bad or degrading, which aligns with 'disgusting', 'squalid' (very dirty and unpleasant), and 'contemptible' (deserving contempt). Therefore, all options A, B, and C are synonyms in different contexts, making 'All of these' the correct answer.

In the sentence, "less" describes the noun "population" by indicating a smaller amount, so it functions as an adjective, not an adverb.

The antonym of "lenient" (meaning permissive or tolerant) is "strict," which means enforcing rules rigorously. Among the options, "strict" is the correct opposite.

The correct adverb to modify 'pleased' in this context is 'very,' which appropriately intensifies the adjective. 'Much' is less commonly used before adjectives like 'pleased,' 'too' implies excessiveness, and 'none' is not an adverb.

The correct relative pronoun to refer to 'bus' (an object) in this context is 'that'. 'Which' is also possible but less common in restrictive clauses referring to vehicles. 'Who' refers to people, and 'To arrive' is not grammatically correct here.

The correct phrase is 'too hot' because 'too' is used with adjectives to indicate an excessive degree, and 'hot' is the adjective. The other options are grammatically incorrect or unidiomatic.

The word 'brusque' means abrupt or blunt in manner. Its antonym is 'courteous,' which means polite and respectful, making option D the correct answer.

The idiom "To bury the hatchet" means to make peace or resolve a conflict. It originates from a Native American practice of literally burying weapons to signify the end of hostilities.