SarkariPYQ

SSC Selection Post 2022 PYQ — Question 4

SSC Selection Post - Matriculation Level 2022 - 7 Feb 2022 - Shift 3 • English • Q4

Back to paper

In the following passage some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and
select the most appropriate option to fill each blank.
There is a fantastic body of evidence which indicates that (1)______ brings down the stress
chemical and it enhances (2)_______ happiness chemical. The videos of medicos (3)______
in hospital corridors have helped us (4)______ in these gloomy times. Indeed optimism and
(5)______ are the need of the hour.

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

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

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

Context: The sentence talks about something that reduces stress and enhances happiness. The subject of the sentence must be a noun that refers to a quality or state.

Meaning of the words:

Playfully is an adverb that describes how an action is done, not a subject.

Playfulness is a noun that refers to the quality of being fun, light-hearted, or full of play.

Played is the past tense of the verb “play” and doesn’t fit grammatically as a subject here.

Plays is the present tense verb form, which requires a subject and doesn't fit the structure of this sentence.

Correct word: Playfulness

Reason: The sentence requires a noun as the subject to match the verb “brings down”. “Playfulness” is the quality being discussed — the idea that playfulness lowers stress and increases happiness.
“Playfully” is an adverb and cannot function as the subject.
“Played” and “plays” are verb forms, not suitable in this structure.
Only “playfulness” fits grammatically and contextually as the subject.

Final Sentence: There is a fantastic body of evidence which indicates that playfulness brings down the stress chemical and it enhances the happiness chemical.

Hence, the chosen option will be correct.