SSC Selection Post 2025 PYQ — Question 75

SSC Selection Post - Higher Secondary Level - 26th July 2025 - Shift 2 • English • Q75

Choose the correct one word substitution for: "The fear of open or public spaces."

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A

Explanation

Correct Answer

Agoraphobia

Explanation

The term "Agoraphobia" comes from the Greek words agora, meaning a marketplace or public open space, and phobia, meaning irrational fear. It refers to an anxiety disorder where a person fears or avoids places that might cause panic, helplessness, or embarrassment, such as open spaces, crowds, or public transit.

Evaluating the other choices reveals different roots and definitions:

Claustrophobia is the irrational fear of confined or enclosed spaces, derived from the Latin claustrum, meaning a shut-in place.

Xenophobia is the dislike of or prejudice against people from other countries, coming from the Greek xenos, meaning stranger or foreigner.

Ergophobia is the abnormal or persistent fear of work or finding employment, originating from the Greek ergon, meaning work.

Key Points

Core Definition One-word substitution involves identifying a specific, single vocabulary word that accurately encapsulates a complex description or medical condition based on its etymological roots.

Grammatical Role Utilizing precise Greek and Latin root combinations to systematically differentiate between various psychological phobias within a standard evaluation format.