Question

Comprehension: In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank. There is a (1)__________ sense of freedom about being alone in a carriage that is jolting noisily through the night. It is liberty unrestrained in a very (2)________ form. You can do anything you like. You can talk to (3)__________ as loud as you please and no one will hear you. You can have that argument out with Jones and roll him triumphantly in the dust (4)___________ fear of a counterstroke. You can stand on your head and no one will see you. You can sing or dance a two-step or practise a golf stroke, (5)_____________ play marbles on the floor without let or hindrance. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no 1.

• A. pleasant
• B. contemptuous
• C. tedious
• D. baleful

Answer 1

Answer:

A. pleasant

• The Context: The passage describes the "liberty" and "freedom" of being alone in a railway carriage. The tone is positive and celebratory of the things one can do without being judged (singing, dancing, or talking to oneself). Word Fit: Pleasant: Means giving a sense of happy satisfaction or enjoyment. This fits perfectly with the positive "sense of freedom" described. Contemptuous: Means showing deep hatred or disapproval. This does not fit the context of enjoying freedom. Tedious: Means too long, slow, or dull (boring). While a long train journey can be tedious, the author is specifically describing the freedom as something enjoyable. Baleful: Means threatening harm; menacing. This is a negative word and contradicts the theme of "liberty."