Comprehension: In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read…
2024
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.
From the beginning (1)_________ the eighteenth century, the ladies of European cities covered (2)_______ faces in layers of paint and powder. This particular fashion was largely brought (3) __________ by the urgent need to disguise the ravages of smallpox, (4)_________ left their faces pitted and scarred. During this same period, the ‘beauty spot’ was introduced to cover (5) __________ a facial defect.
Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.
- A.
that
- B.
which
- C.
when
- D.
where
Attempted by 28 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Understanding Relative Pronouns and Conjunctions
Antecedent Identification: The blank refers back to "smallpox," which is the antecedent. We need a relative pronoun to introduce the non-essential descriptive clause that follows.
Relative Pronouns vs. Conjunctions:
Which: This is a relative pronoun used to introduce a non-restrictive clause, providing extra, non-essential information about a noun. Since the clause "left their faces pitted and scarred" describes the ravages of smallpox as additional information, "which" is the grammatically correct choice.
That: This is usually used for restrictive clauses (essential information). Using "that" here would incorrectly imply that only some smallpox ravages left faces scarred, rather than describing the nature of the ravages themselves.
When: This is a conjunction of time. It cannot function as the subject of the clause and does not refer back to the noun "smallpox."
Where: This is a relative adverb used to refer to a place or location. Since "smallpox" is a disease, not a place, "where" is inappropriate.