<p>The chairman was obliged to bring the meeting to a <u>halt</u> because a fire broke out in the adjoining room.</p>
<p>The correct answer is (D) halt. In this context, the word "halt" means to stop or bring to a sudden stop. The chairman had to abruptly end the meeting due to the fire in the adjoining room. The other options do not accurately convey the idea of a sudden stop or interruption.</p>
<p>(A) cessation: This word refers to a formal or temporary stopping of something, but it does not convey the sense of a sudden stop or interruption that is needed in this context.</p>
<p>(B) standstill: This word means a complete stop or lack of movement, but it does not capture the idea of an abrupt or sudden stop that is caused by the fire.</p>
<p>(C) stopping: This word is a general term for coming to a stop, but it does not convey the sense of a sudden or abrupt stop that is necessary in this context.</p>