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Question

Direction: Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the underlined words in the given sentence.

He did not stop until it was remarked that he was speaking at length about trivial things.

This question was previously asked in
SSC CGL 2023 (Tier-II) Paper 1 Previous Year Paper (26-Oct-2023) (Shift-1)
The correct answer is

rambling

Understanding the Phrase to Substitute

The question asks us to find a single word that can replace the phrase "speaking at length about trivial things" in the given sentence: "He did not stop until it was remarked that he was speaking at length about trivial things."

The phrase "speaking at length about trivial things" means talking for a long time about matters that are not important or serious. We need to find a word that concisely expresses this idea.

Analyzing the Options

Let's look at the meaning of each option provided:

  • twittering: This usually refers to the sounds made by birds. It can also metaphorically mean talking in a light, rapid, and often inconsequential way, but it doesn't strongly convey the idea of speaking "at length" about "trivial things" specifically.
  • writing: This means putting words on paper or a screen. The original phrase is about speaking, not writing. So, this option is incorrect.
  • rambling: This means talking or writing at length in a confused or inconsequential way. It perfectly captures the idea of speaking for a long time about unimportant or trivial topics.
  • littering: This means dropping trash in a public place. This is completely unrelated to speaking. So, this option is incorrect.

Selecting the Most Appropriate Substitute

Based on the analysis of the options, the word that best fits the meaning of "speaking at length about trivial things" is "rambling". When someone is rambling, they are talking for a long time, often jumping from one topic to another or focusing on unimportant details, just like speaking at length about trivial things.

Replacing the underlined phrase with "rambling" gives us: "He did not stop until it was remarked that he was rambling." This revised sentence maintains the original meaning clearly and concisely.

Revision Table: Word Meanings

Word Meaning Relevance to "Speaking at Length About Trivial Things"
twittering Light, rapid talk or bird sounds Some overlap in triviality, but not specifically about length or the type of trivial topics.
writing Putting words on paper/screen Incorrect; the phrase is about speaking.
rambling Talking at length confusedly or about unimportant things Strong fit; includes both "at length" and "trivial things".
littering Dropping trash Incorrect; unrelated to speaking.

Additional Information: Understanding Vocabulary in Context

Choosing the correct word to substitute a phrase often depends heavily on understanding the context of the sentence and the precise meaning of both the original phrase and the potential substitute words. Vocabulary questions test your ability to identify synonyms or words that capture the essence of a more extended description.

In this case, the context makes it clear that the speaking was lengthy and focused on trivial matters, leading to the conclusion that "rambling" is the most suitable replacement. Understanding common idioms and idiomatic phrases is also crucial for these types of questions.

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Important Questions from Phrase Replacement

  1. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, No substitution required.

    Not knowing the language and having no acquaintances in the city, he found it hard getting work.

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    Gayatri informed one of the directors that she has sent the material for printing.

  3. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, select option No substitution required.

    We had been almost halfway there when the left rear tyre blew out

  4. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, select option No substitution required.

    The man spent a lot because he had so large amount of money.

  5. Select the word segment that substitutes (replaces) the bracketed word segment correctly and completes the sentence meaningfully. Select the option 'no correction required' if the sentence is correct as given.
    In simple words ‘Welfare’ (mean a state of well being and happy.)
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