Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 1.

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

For many healthcare workers, (1) _______________ nurses, longer hours and shift work are the norm. Nurses are (2)___________________ expected to work on public holidays, and may have to work for six or seven (3)_________________ days before having a few days off, instead of the standard five days on, two days off.Also, many healthcare services, such as hospitals and aged care facilities, (4)______________ staffing seven days a week. It’s imperative any restructured work arrangements are designed to (5)___________________ continuous, adequate staffing. Consequently, a direct transition from a five-day to a four-day work week might not be immediately logical or applicable.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is option 3 i.e. especially.
Context: The sentence highlights healthcare workers, with a particular focus on nurses, so the word must mean “in particular.”
Meaning of the words:
Ascetically: means in a self-denying or austere manner, not relevant here.
Equally: means in the same manner or to the same degree, not correct in this context.
Especially: means particularly or more than others.
Fanatically: means with extreme enthusiasm or obsession, not suitable here.
Correct word: Especially
Reason: The passage is emphasizing that among healthcare workers, especially nurses face longer hours and shifts. Other words do not convey this emphasis.
Final Sentence: For many healthcare workers, especially nurses, longer hours and shift work are the norm.
Hence, the chosen option is correct.

SSC GD 2025 PYQ — Question 5