SarkariPYQ

SSC MTS 2024 PYQ — Question 86

SSC MTS - 21/10/2024 - (12:30 PM - 2:30 PM) • English • Q86

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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.
We are familiar with the quote, ' 'If winter comes, can spring be far ___1___?' Winters are depressing, but we bear because we know that it will not ___2___ till perpetuity. Spring ___3___ a new life in us. As the spring begins to set itself, the nights become shorter and the days get longer. Gardens and lawns become colourful, buds ___4___ as flowers, birds chirp and butterflies fly from one flower to another to ___5____ on the sweet nectar. The dullness is taken over by brightness.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. last.

Context: The sentence talks about winter not continuing forever. The blank must convey the idea of duration.

Meaning of the words:

  • hold – to grasp or keep, not about duration

  • last – to continue over a period of time; fits perfectly here

  • hold on – to wait or persevere, does not fit the context

  • rest – to pause or relax, irrelevant here

Correct word: last

Final Sentence: Winters are depressing, but we bear because we know that it will not last till perpetuity.

Hence, the chosen option is correct.