SSC CGL 2024 PYQ — Question 21

SSC CGL - 09 Sep 2024 - Shift 1 • English • Q21

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

There is a saying that coming events cast their shadows before. (1)________, it is not universally true. Something can happen within a second, and one may not (2)________ it. (3)________, some instances show that predictions based on certain signs have gone wrong. People generally say that natural calamities can be predicted by observing the animals. But what if animals are suffering from some disease and don’t show any signs before the event appears? They may fail to make peculiar sounds or actions about the events that are going to take place. (4)________, some unnatural calamities that are likely to appear may forecast their shadows by some bad omens. (5)________, we should not completely cancel out the possibility that animals can sense certain unnatural happenings.

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

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

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

Context: The passage is showing that the proverb is not always true, hence a contrast is being made. The sentence introduces a contrast to the proverb stated earlier.

Analysis of the given options:

Moreover: Adds information (not contrast).
Therefore: Shows result/consequence.
Furthermore: Adds information.
However: Shows contrast.

Correct word: However 

Reason: 'However' is the best fit because it introduces a contrast to the commonly held belief that coming events cast their shadows before.

Hence, the chosen option is correct.