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SSC MTS 2024 PYQ — Question 89

SSC MTS - 04/11/2024 - (4:00 PM - 5:30 PM) • English • Q89

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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.

Opera refers (1)_______ a dramatic art form, originating in Europe, in which the emotional content (2)________ conveyed to the audience as much through music, both vocal and instrumental, as it is through the lyrics. (3)___________contrast, in musical theatre an actor's dramatic performance is primary, and the music (4)_________ a lesser role. The drama in opera is (5)________ using the primary elements of theatre such as scenery, costumes and acting.

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. plays.

Context: The sentence describes the role of music in musical theatre as being secondary. Since the subject is singular (music), the verb must agree in the present tense: “plays a lesser role.”

Meaning of the words:

  • Play – base form, incorrect for present tense with singular subject.

  • Plays – correct present tense form for singular subject.

  • Playing – present participle, incorrect here.

  • Played – past tense, does not fit the context.

Correct word: Plays, because the music plays a lesser role in musical theatre.

Final Sentence: …and the music plays a lesser role.

Hence, the chosen option is correct.