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SSC CGL 2024 PYQ — Question 5

SSC CGL - 09 Sep 2024 - Shift 2 • English • Q5

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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.

From the beginning (1)_________ the eighteenth century, the ladies of European cities covered (2)_______ faces in layers of paint and powder. This particular fashion was largely brought (3) __________ by the urgent need to disguise the ravages of smallpox, (4)_________ left their faces pitted and scarred. During this same period, the ‘beauty spot’ was introduced to cover (5) __________ a facial defect.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C

Explanation

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

Context: Refers to a time range starting from a point in the past.
Analysis of the given options:

  • In: general preposition of time, but not used with 'beginning.'

  • On: used for specific dates/days—not applicable.

  • Of: correct when used with “beginning”—standard phrase.

  • About: implies approximation—not suitable here.

Correct word: Of

Reason: The standard prepositional phrase is 'from the beginning of the eighteenth century.'

Hence, the chosen option is correct.