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

In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each number.
I went out and bought all sorts of small gifts and then headed to the more expensive outlets (1)___________ the mall. I picked up little things, things I knew my mother would (2)_______ I took them home and wrapped each one (3)_________ using all kinds of packing material. Then I made a card for each one. After doing that, I (4)___________ the gift off outside my mother's doorway and called her, pretending to (5)_________ about her health. She was bubbling over. She told me someone had left a gift for her and signed it 'Secret Santa'.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B

Explanation

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

Context: The speaker is confident that the mother would appreciate or like the small items being picked.

Meaning of the words:
Loving – Adjective, not suitable here.
Love – Verb in present tense, suitable after “would”.
Loved – Past tense, not appropriate after “would”.
Loves – Present tense (not used after “would”).

Correct word: Love

Reason: After "would," the base form of the verb is required. “Would love” indicates future appreciation or liking.

Final Sentence: Things I knew my mother would love.

Hence, the chosen option is correct.

SSC Selection Post 2020 PYQ — Question 9