Complete the cloze passage by filling in the blanks with the most appropriate words.
Last winter, Ananya traveled alone to Shimla for a school competition. The town, covered in snow, looked like a painting that had come alive. She checked into the guesthouse ___A___, eager to rehearse her debate speech. But just as she reached for her notes, she realized something alarming, her suitcase ____B_____, and the key was missing.
Had she dropped it at the railway station? Or had she left it in the train itself? The more she thought, the more restless she became. 'Stay calm, Ananya,' she whispered to ____C____, 'panic will solve nothing.'
Determined to find a way, she asked the receptionist for help. He suggested calling a locksmith. While waiting, she kept _____D_____ (pacing) the hall, her mind filled with worry. How embarrassing it would be if she could not present her speech tomorrow!
When the locksmith finally arrived, he ____E_____ (examined) the lock and said confidently, 'Do not worry, miss, this will open soon.' Within minutes, the suitcase clicked open. What a moment of relief it was! Ananya almost cried with gratitude.
That night, while reviewing her speech, she reflected: 'Life often tests us with unexpected problems. If we stay calm, solutions eventually appear.' She promised herself she would remember this lesson in every challenge ahead.
Choose the correct synonym for the word in (E): (examined).
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
Correct Answer
Inspected
Explanation
The word 'examined' means to inspect, scrutinize, or look at something very closely and carefully to determine its condition or find a solution. When the locksmith arrives to open the suitcase, he needs to study the lock mechanism to figure out how to pick or open it, making 'inspected' the perfect synonym.
The other options are incorrect because they are antonyms (opposites) of examined. Ignored means to pay no attention to something. Avoided means to stay away from or shun. Neglected means to fail to care for properly. None of these words fit a professional locksmith trying to solve a problem.
Key Points
When selecting synonyms in situational passages, look at the outcome of the action. The text states that right after examining the lock, the locksmith spoke 'confidently' and opened it 'within minutes.' This clear success proves he closely evaluated the item rather than turning away from it.