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Question

Directions: In the following items, a sentence is given with a blank space that is required to be filled with a phrasal verb. Select the most appropriate response from the options provided and mark your response on the Answer Sheet accordingly.

The goons _______ the unsuspecting victims when the latter walked into the dark alley.

This question was previously asked in
CDS 2 2024 Maths Question Paper (01-Sep-2024)
The correct answer is set upon

Choosing the Correct Phrasal Verb for Sentence Completion

This question requires us to select the most suitable phrasal verb to fill the blank in the given sentence. The sentence describes a scenario involving goons and unsuspecting victims in a dark alley. We need to understand the meaning of each phrasal verb option to determine which one accurately fits the context.

Understanding the Sentence Context

The sentence is: "The goons _______ the unsuspecting victims when the latter walked into the dark alley." This situation implies an aggressive action by the goons against the victims, likely a sudden attack or ambush, which is common in such settings.

Analyzing Phrasal Verb Meanings

Let's examine the meaning of each option:

  • set upon: This phrasal verb means to attack someone suddenly and violently. It can also mean to criticize someone severely. In the context of goons and victims, "attack violently" is the relevant meaning.
  • set up: This phrasal verb has several meanings, including establishing something (like a business), arranging something, or tricking someone. None of these meanings fit the context of a direct attack.
  • set along: This phrase is not typically used as a standard phrasal verb in this manner. It doesn't convey the meaning of attack or aggression.
  • set down: This phrasal verb usually means to put something down, to write something down, or to establish rules or principles. It does not relate to attacking someone.

Determining the Best Fit

Considering the context of goons attacking unsuspecting victims in a dark alley, the phrasal verb that clearly describes this action is set upon. It signifies a violent attack.

Let's see how the sentence reads with the chosen phrasal verb:

"The goons set upon the unsuspecting victims when the latter walked into the dark alley."

This sentence effectively conveys that the goons launched a sudden, violent attack on the victims as they entered the alley.

Evaluating Incorrect Options

  • "set up" would imply the goons arranged or tricked the victims, not necessarily attacked them violently.
  • "set along" is grammatically awkward and semantically incorrect in this context.
  • "set down" is completely irrelevant to the action described.

Conclusion

Based on the meaning of the phrasal verbs and the context provided in the sentence, set upon is the most appropriate choice to describe the action of the goons attacking the victims.

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