SarkariPYQ

SSC CGL 2018 PYQ — Question 72

SSC CGL Tier II English - 17/02/2018 • English • Q72

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In the following passage, some of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and select the correct answer for the given blank out of the four alternatives.

Violence takes a heavy toll and affects public life ______. High or low, known or unknown, rich or poor, popular or unpopular, no one is safe or secure today. It appears that one can harm anybody at any time and at ______. A mad and sad rat race is on to make money and ______ power at any cost and by any means. The result is that no political party or group can now ______ into claim to total innocence in so far as ______ of violence against innocent person for personal or political gains is concerned. Violent demonstrations, rallies, hartals have become the order of the day.

make money and ______ power at any cost.

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Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is option 3, i.e. gain.

  1. Retain means to keep possession of.

  2. Sustain means strengthen or support physically or mentally.

  3. Gain means btain or secure something wanted or desirable.

  4. Maintain means cause or enable a condition/situation to continue.

Power is a quality or status that can be maintained throughout one's life. The other options become incorrect because their meanings aren't appropriate to express the quality of power. It (power) is not a situation or possession, but is a wanted desire amongst people.