SarkariPYQ

SSC MTS 2024 PYQ — Question 86

SSC MTS - 08/10/2024 - (12:30 PM - 2:30 PM) • English • Q86

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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.

A phobia is an irrational fear of an object, situation or living thing. While fear is (1)_______ natural response to danger, phobias often occur (2)____________ response to something unlikely to cause real harm. In some cases, a person with a (3)___________ will meet the diagnostic criteria for a specific phobia, which is a type of anxiety disorder. Someone with a specific phobia will (4)_________ intense fear and anxiety when confronted with the source of the phobia, which could include blood, heights or specific animals like dogs. Phobias are (5)______________ by significant distress and often cause a person to avoid the source of their fear or suffer from extreme anxiety when faced with it. Someone experiencing a phobia that is interfering with everyday life should consider undergoing treatment for their phobia, as outcomes for professional care are typically favourable.

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

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. a.

Context: The sentence is defining fear in general: 'Fear is a natural response to danger.' The blank precedes the phrase 'natural response to danger,' which is a singular countable noun phrase, so it requires the correct article.

Analysis of the given options:

  • One – Refers to a single item but doesn’t fit article usage here.
  • A – Correct indefinite article used before a singular countable noun starting with a consonant sound.
  • Those – Plural demonstrative pronoun, incorrect.
  • These – Plural demonstrative pronoun, incorrect.

Correct word: A

Reason: 'A natural response' is the standard form when speaking about one of many possible natural responses.

Hence, the chosen option is correct.