SSC Stenographer 2026 PYQ — Question 165

SSC Stenographer - 15 Sep 2026 - Shift 2 • English • Q165

choose the option that best improves the underlined portion of the sentence:
The policy not only lacked clarity but it also failed to address core concerns.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

Correct Answer: lacked clarity but failed
Explanation
• The original construction is wordy and contains redundant elements (it also).
• Since the sentence shares a single subject (The policy), two past tense verbs can be joined smoothly with the coordinating conjunction but: lacked clarity but failed.
• This structure maintains parallel verb forms (lacked and failed) while eliminating unnecessary pronouns and correlative markers, making the sentence concise and grammatically sound.