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

In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
The ancient Egyptians (1)_____ pyramids as tombs for their pharaohs. These colossal structures served as monuments and (2)____ constructed with limestone and granite. The main purpose of the pyramids (3)____ to safeguard the pharaoh’s body and possessions in the afterlife. The (4)______ famous pyramid, the Great Pyramid of Giza, is a testament to the architectural brilliance (5)____ the ancient Egyptians.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

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

Context: The sentence talks about the pyramids in the past. Since pyramids were built long ago, the correct form is 'were constructed.'

Meaning of the words:

Has been – present perfect, incorrect because it refers to a continuing action, not suitable for ancient history.
Were – past tense plural, correct because it matches with 'pyramids' and historical context.
Is – present tense, incorrect for past events.
Was – past tense singular, incorrect because the subject 'pyramids' is plural.

Correct word: Were, because it correctly indicates that the pyramids were constructed with limestone and granite in the past.

Final Sentence: These colossal structures served as monuments and were constructed with limestone and granite.

Hence, the chosen option is correct.

SSC GD 2025 PYQ — Question 4