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SSC MTS 2024 PYQ — Question 86

SSC MTS - 23/10/2024 - (12:30 PM - 2:30 PM) • English • Q86

Back to paper

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

It is true that strangers meeting for the first time seem to feel ____1____ if they do not engage _____ 2_____ small talk. Usually, this is ______3______ and even necessary if strangers are to size each other up. But, this small talk aside, what are some _____4______ rules for general conversation?
In the first place, certain _____5_____ should be taboo. Kitchen topics, bus time-tables and other dull or specialised things should be barred from general discussion.

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. uncomfortable.

Context: The sentence is: “It is true that strangers meeting for the first time seem to feel 1 if they do not engage _____ 2_____ small talk.”
The blank describes the feeling of strangers when they don’t engage in conversation.

Meaning of the words:

  • comforts – noun; refers to things that provide ease, not a feeling.

  • discomforts – plural noun; refers to sources of unease, not a feeling itself.

  • comforting – adjective, but means something that provides comfort, not the state they feel.

  • uncomfortable – adjective; perfectly describes the feeling of unease or awkwardness.

Correct word: uncomfortable

Final Sentence: It is true that strangers meeting for the first time seem to feel uncomfortable if they do not engage _____ 2_____ small talk.

Hence, the chosen option is correct.