SarkariPYQ

SSC Selection Post 2024 PYQ — Question 8

SSC Selection Post - Graduation Level - 26 June 2024 - Shift 3 • English • Q8

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In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.

Can we see (1)________ the earth is a globe? Yes, we can, when we watch a ship that sails out to sea. If we watch closely, we see that the ship begins (2)________. The bottom of the ship disappears first, and then the ship seems to sink lower and lower, (3) ________ we can only see the top of the ship, and then we see nothing at all. What is hiding the ship from us? It is the earth. Stick a pin most of the way into an orange, and (4) ________ turn the orange away from you. You will see the pin disappear, (5)________ a ship does on the earth.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. until.

Context: The sentence describes a gradual process — the ship slowly disappears bit by bit, and finally, we can only see the top of the ship. The correct word must express this continuous action up to a certain point.

Meaning of the words:

Since – indicates time from a past point until now (not suitable here)
Until – up to the point in time or event mentioned (Correct choice)
By the time – refers to something being completed before another event (not gradual)
After – indicates something happens following an event (doesn’t fit the flow here)

Correct word: Until

Reason: “Until” correctly shows that the ship disappears gradually up to the point where only the top is visible.

Final Sentence: The bottom of the ship disappears first, and then the ship seems to sink lower and lower, until we can only see the top of the ship.

Hence, the chosen option is correct.