SarkariPYQ

SSC CHSL 2023 PYQ — Question 2

SSC CHSL - 04 Aug 2023 - Shift 4 • English • Q2

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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.

His only (1)________ was that he had no rifle. While running away from the village below, he had forgotten the rifle in a hurry. An unpardonable (2)________, but it was now too late to make amends for it. (3)________ he had the rifle, his pursuers would not have dared follow him with such brazen confidence. He would have hidden behind a rock and waited for them. As they came within his rifle’s range, he would have picked them off one by one. But now he could do (4)________ about it. He was unarmed. But come what may, he must (5)________ of their rifle’s range.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. nothing.

The passage describes a situation where the character has forgotten his rifle, which puts him at a significant disadvantage. The phrase "But now he could do ______ about it" indicates his helplessness in the situation due to being unarmed.

The word "nothing" signifies the total absence of any possible action or solution. It underscores that the character is utterly powerless in his current predicament.

The other option means:

Anything: Implies that he might have some options or possibilities to change the situation. 

Something: Suggests that there is a specific action he could take.

Much: Implies he could do a little, but not a lot.