SSC MTS 2024 PYQ — Question 89

SSC MTS - 28/10/2024 - (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) • English • Q89

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

Worldwide illiteracy rates have (1)_________ declined in the last few decades. One of the major reasons for this decline is the sharp increase in literacy rates (2)_________ young women, which is a result of specific (3)_________ designed to increase educational opportunities for girls. (4)_________, there are still an estimated 771 million illiterate adults in the world, about two-thirds of whom are (5)_________.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 4.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

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

Context: The sentence introduces a contrast between the decline in illiteracy rates and the still large number of illiterate adults.

Meaning of the words:

  • Whenever – means at any time, not suitable here.

  • Otherwise – means or else, does not fit the context.

  • However – means in spite of that, correct for showing contrast.

  • Thus – means therefore, indicates result, not contrast.

Correct word: The right word is however, because it introduces a contrast between progress and remaining challenges.

Reason: However is used to show opposition or contrast in sentences.

Final Sentence: However, there are still an estimated 771 million illiterate adults in the world.

Hence, the chosen option is correct.