In the following passage, some words have been omitted. Read the passage carefully and choose the most appropriate option from the given alternatives to fill in each blank. Mark your answer for each question.
Ravi and Arjun had been rivals on the football field since their first year in school. Both were talented players, and their competition often brought out the best and sometimes the worst-in them. When the school team was selected for the district championship, both were chosen to play. At first, their rivalry made teamwork difficult. Passes were missed, tempers (1)_____ and the coach had to step in. He reminded them that personal pride should never come before the team. Slowly, Ravi and Arjun began to (2)_____ one another's strengths instead of focusing on their differences. As trust grew, their coordination improved, and the team's performance soared. In the semi-final match, it was a pass from Ravi that helped Arjun score the winning goal. The crowd cheered not just for the win, but for the sportsmanship. What began as a clash ended in a strong (3)_____ that taught them the value of unity, mutual (4)_____ and shared (5)_____.
What would come in (5)
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The most appropriate word for blank (5) is pride, as the passage focuses on the transition from individual competition to collective achievement. The context implies that shared efforts and shared pride/goals brought them success.
The full sentence based on the story of Ravi and Arjun is:
"The crowd cheered not just for the win, but for the sportsmanship. What began as a clash ended in a strong bond that taught them the value of unity, mutual respect and shared pride.”