Directions : Select the phrase/connector from the given three options which…
2020
Directions : Select the phrase/connector from the given three options which can be used to form a single sentence from the two sentences given below, implying the same meaning as expressed in the statement.
(1) The bank plans to set aside Rs100 crore to Rs200 crore for the merger.
(2) It wants to run this merger scheme on a pilot basis at least eight months.
(A) In spite of the pilot basis ___________
(B) Despite the bank plans _______________
(C) Though the bank plans to ____________________
- A.
Only (A)
- B.
Only (B)
- C.
Only (C)
- D.
Both (A) and (B)
- E.
Both (B) and (C)
Attempted by 9 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Concept
A subordinating conjunction (though, although, even though) links a full clause — a group of words containing a subject and a finite verb. A preposition of contrast (despite, in spite of) cannot do this: it must be followed only by a noun, a pronoun, or an -ing form, never by a subject + finite verb. So whether a connector is grammatical depends entirely on what kind of unit follows it.
Application
Test what follows each blank against the two sentences that must be joined:
“Though the bank plans to set aside Rs100 crore to Rs200 crore for the merger, it wants to run this scheme on a pilot basis for at least eight months.” Here “Though” introduces the finite clause “the bank plans to set aside…”, and the main clause “it wants to run…” follows. Subject + verb after a conjunction is correct, and the concession (a large planned outlay versus a cautious trial) keeps the original meaning.
“Despite the bank plans…” places the finite clause “the bank plans” immediately after a preposition. A preposition cannot take a subject + verb, so this is ungrammatical; it would need a noun phrase such as “despite the bank’s plan…”.
“In spite of the pilot basis…” is a grammatical phrase, but “the pilot basis” is the bank’s own chosen approach, not an obstacle being overcome, so it does not reproduce the intended meaning of the two statements.
Cross-check
Only the “Though” connector both follows the grammar rule (conjunction + finite clause) and preserves the meaning, so a single connector works. The answer is “Only (C)”.