Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 5.

In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the
alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each number.
A mother is the best nurse, guide and guardian (1)______ a child can have. It is for (2)______ to make a saint of him or a (3)______. She can cultivate in him either (4)______ courage or abject cowardice. The (5)______ years of a man’s life are spent in the lap of his mother.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. formative.
Context: The sentence talks about the early years of a person's life spent with their mother, which shape their personality.

Meaning of the words:
Imminent: about to happen.
Forthcoming: about to be published, released, or happen.
Anticipated: expected or predicted.
Formative: serving to form something, especially having a lasting influence on a person's development.

Correct word: Formative
Reason: The word “formative” refers to the early period in life that is crucial for development, especially under the influence of a mother.
Final Sentence: The formative years of a man’s life are spent in the lap of his mother.
Hence, the chosen option is correct.

SSC Selection Post 2020 PYQ — Question 6