SSC CHSL 2023 PYQ — Question 1

SSC CHSL - 09 Aug 2023 - Shift 2 • English • Q1

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

Speech is a great (1)______ but it can be a great curse, for, while it helps us to make our desires and intentions known to our fellows, it can also, if we use it carelessly, make our attitude completely misunderstood. A slip of the (2)_______ the use of an unusual or an ambiguous word, and so on, may create an enemy where we had hoped to win a friend. Again, different classes of people use different (3)________ and the ordinary speech of an educated man may strike an uneducated listener as showing pride. Unwittingly, we may use a word which bears a different meaning for our listener from what it does to men of our own class. Thus, speech is not a gift to use lightly without thought, but one which demands (4)________ handling, only a fool will express himself alike to all kinds and conditions of men. Thus, speech is a valuable gift, but if not used in a proper way, it may cause misunderstanding. Since different classes use different words, we must use speech carefully to avoid being (5)________.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C

Explanation

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

Context: The conclusion of the passage warns against miscommunication. If speech is not used properly, it may cause us to be misinterpreted.

Analysis of the given options:

Praised: Opposite meaning.
Criticised: Possible, but not ideal here.
Misunderstood: incorrectly interpreted or understood.
Condemned: Too extreme.

Correct word: Misunderstood

Reason: It reflects the passage’s concern about clarity and accurate communication. Misunderstood fits the theme of miscommunication.

Hence, the chosen option is correct.