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SSC MTS 2024 PYQ — Question 88

SSC MTS - 23/10/2024 - (12:30 PM - 2:30 PM) • English • Q88

Back to paper

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

It is true that strangers meeting for the first time seem to feel ____1____ if they do not engage _____ 2_____ small talk. Usually, this is ______3______ and even necessary if strangers are to size each other up. But, this small talk aside, what are some _____4______ rules for general conversation?
In the first place, certain _____5_____ should be taboo. Kitchen topics, bus time-tables and other dull or specialised things should be barred from general discussion.

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

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. harmless.

Context: The sentence is: “Usually, this is 3 and even necessary if strangers are to size each other up.”
The blank describes small talk, which is not harmful and often needed for social interaction.

Meaning of the options:

  • happy – describes an emotion, does not fit here.

  • harmless – safe, not causing harm; correctly describes small talk.

  • comedy – a genre of entertainment, irrelevant.

  • remedy – a cure, does not fit in the context of social interaction.

Correct word: harmless

Final Sentence: Usually, this is harmless and even necessary if strangers are to size each other up.

Hence, the chosen option is correct.