SSC Selection Post 2025 PYQ — Question 68

SSC Selection Post - Matriculation Level - 29th August 2025 - Shift 3 • English • Q68

Read the passage and answer the questions:

In today's fast-paced world, staying fit and healthy has become more important than ever. Regular exercise helps improve physical strength, mental well-being, and overall energy levels. A combination of cardio exercises, such as running or cycling, and strength training can help keep the body in good shape.

Apart from exercise, maintaining a balanced diet plays a crucial role in fitness. Eating fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein-rich foods provides essential nutrients for the body. On the other hand, consuming excessive junk food can lead to health problems like obesity and heart disease.

Fitness is not just about physical health; it also impacts mental well-being. Regular workouts release endorphins, which help reduce stress and improve mood. Even simple activities like walking or stretching can make a big difference. Staying fit requires dedication and consistency, but the benefits are worth the effort.

Find the synonym of "crucial" from the passage.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A

Explanation

Correct Answer

Important

Explanation

The question asks for the synonym (a word with a similar meaning) of the word "crucial" based on the options provided.

The word "Crucial" means extremely important, critical, or decisive for the success or existence of something. In the second paragraph of the passage, it states: "Apart from exercise, maintaining a balanced diet plays a crucial role in fitness." This indicates that a balanced diet is highly necessary and of great value to fitness. Therefore, "Important" is the correct synonym and Option 1 is the correct choice.

The other options are incorrect because they have different or completely opposite meanings:

Unnecessary is an antonym, meaning not needed or required.

Small refers to something that is little in size, amount, or significance.

Common refers to something that is found frequently or happens often, which does not match the intensity of importance implied by "crucial."

Key Points

In competitive exam reading comprehensions, vocabulary words are often tested in context. If you encounter a word like "crucial," try substituting the options into the sentence: "maintaining a balanced diet plays an important role..." makes perfect sense, helping you confirm your answer quickly. Common synonyms for crucial include essential, vital, critical, and pivotal.