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Question

Choose the most appropriate words from the options given below to complete the following sentence.
Because she had a reputation for __________, we were surprised and pleased when she greeted us so __________.

The correct answer is
querulousness affably

Vocabulary Context: Sentence Completion

The sentence structure requires finding two words that create a contrast. The first word should describe a negative reputation, and the second word should describe a positive greeting that causes surprise.

Analyzing Word Pairs

  • Option 1: $insolence$ (rudeness) and $irately$ (angrily). A rude reputation followed by an angry greeting lacks contrast and surprise.
  • Option 2: $insouciance$ (lack of concern) and $curtly$ (rudely). Similar to option 1, this doesn't create the needed surprise based on the sentence.
  • Option 3: $graciousness$ (kindness) and $amiably$ (friendly). A reputation for kindness followed by a friendly greeting offers no contrast or surprise.
  • Option 4: $querulousness$ (complaining nature) and $affably$ (friendly manner). This pair fits the sentence perfectly. A reputation for being difficult or complaining, followed by a surprisingly friendly greeting, creates the intended contrast and explains why the observers were "surprised and pleased".

Conclusion

The word $querulousness$ describes a tendency to complain or be difficult, while $affably$ describes being pleasant and friendly. This contrast explains the surprise mentioned in the sentence.

Therefore, the most appropriate words are $querulousness$ and $affably$.

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Important Questions from Sentence Completion

  1. Directions: In a question given below an incomplete sentence that must be filled/completed with one of the sentence /phrases can be fit into the given blanks. Choose the corret option and complete the given sentence.

    The focus has been on finishing the syllabus instead of concentration on whether the student _____________________________.

  2. Directions: In a question given below an incomplete sentence that must be filled/completed with one of the sentence /phrases can be fit into the given blanks. Choose the correct option and complete the given sentence.

    Due to the rapid mechanisation of low-skill jobs in the construction and retail sectors, employment prospects________________________________.

  3. Directions: Given below is a conversation between two people. Fill in the blank with the appropriate sentence to make it grammatically correct.

    Anita: What about our plans for the weekend?

    Mehta: Everything set but if Anna comes to know about it, _________

  4. The sentences (given with blanks) are to be filled with an appropriate word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. For each question, choose the correct alternative and click the button corresponding to it.

    See me tomorrow without ___________ 

  5. The sentences (given with blanks) are to be filled with an appropriate word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. For each question, choose the correct alternative and click the button corresponding to it.

    Radium ___________ rays that blind the eyes.

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