SarkariPYQ

SSC GD 2025 PYQ — Question 4

SSC GD Const 2025 (English) - 06 Feb 2025 - Shift 2 • English • Q4

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Comprehension:
In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and
select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
Naval architects never claim that a ship is unsinkable, but the sinking of the passenger-and-car
ferry Estonia (1) ____ the Baltic surely (2) ______ never have happened. It was well designed
and (3) ______ maintained. It carried the proper number of lifeboats. It (4)______ thoroughly
inspected on the day of its fatal voyage. Yet hours later, the Estonia rolled over and (5)
_______ in a cold and stormy night.

Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 2

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: D

Explanation

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

Context: The sentence expresses that the sinking of Estonia was something that was not supposed to happen. The tone here is of strong criticism or obligation, not just possibility.

Meaning of the words:

  • Could: Shows possibility or ability.

  • Might: Shows a weak possibility.

  • Would: Shows certainty in a condition or future.

  • Should: Expresses duty, expectation, or something that is right/wrong.

Correct word: Should

Reason: The phrase “surely should never have happened” clearly shows that such a tragedy was not expected and ought not to have happened. This is stronger than just saying “could.”

Final Sentence: …the sinking of the passenger-and-car ferry Estonia in the Baltic surely should never have happened.

Hence the chosen option is correct.