In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each number. Temptations of one kind or another lure everyone. The important thing is (1)______ them from gaining a foothold in our (2)______. As soon as we detect the first (3)______ of temptation, we should become watchful and (4)______ our attention to good or noble thoughts. (5)______ we wait till the temptation becomes too (6)______, we are likely to fall. Playing with the temptation (7)______ to welcoming it. In fact, the safest (8)______ is to avoid situations in which we may be tempted. If, (9)______ all our care, a temptation becomes severe, we (10)______ not get upset or disappointed, but turn to a good friend for advice and help.
Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank No. 2.
minds
Understanding the Passage Context: Resisting Temptation
The passage discusses the pervasive nature of temptations and how to deal with them. It emphasizes the importance of preventing temptations from taking control and suggests strategies like being watchful, diverting attention to positive thoughts, avoiding tempting situations, and seeking help if necessary.
The question asks us to fill in the second blank in the sentence: "The important thing is (1)______ them from gaining a foothold in our (2)______." We need to choose the most appropriate word from the given options to fit into blank (2).
Analyzing Option for Blank 2: Minds
Let's look at the options provided for blank (2):
- bodies
- minds
- souls
- eyes
The sentence talks about temptations "gaining a foothold in our ______". A 'foothold' implies establishing a position or gaining control, often in a place that is difficult to penetrate or where one has an advantage. In the context of temptation, this foothold is where the temptation can take root and influence us.
Let's consider how each option fits:
- bodies: While temptation can lead to physical actions, it primarily operates on our desires, thoughts, and intentions, which are not physical parts of the body itself. A temptation doesn't gain a 'foothold' physically within a body organ.
- minds: The mind is where thoughts, desires, intentions, and attention reside. The passage immediately follows this sentence with advice to "divert our attention to good or noble thoughts." This strongly connects the idea of resisting temptation with mental processes. Temptations often start as thoughts or desires that enter our minds. Gaining a foothold in our 'minds' means the temptation starts influencing our thinking and desires. This fits the context perfectly.
- souls: 'Souls' often refer to the spiritual or non-physical part of a person, considered immortal. While temptation can be viewed as a spiritual struggle, 'minds' is a more direct and common term used in contexts discussing thoughts, attention, and mental resistance to negative influences, as described in the passage.
- eyes: The eyes are organs of sight. Temptations might arise from what we see (e.g., seeing something desirable), but the temptation itself gains a foothold in our internal state, not in the eyes themselves. The eyes are a channel through which temptation might enter, but not the place where it takes root.
Considering the surrounding text which mentions "thoughts" and diverting "attention", the word "minds" is the most logical and contextually appropriate choice for where temptations gain a foothold internally. The struggle against temptation is largely a mental one, involving controlling thoughts and attention.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis of the context and the options, "minds" is the most suitable word to fill in blank number (2). The sentence means that it is important to prevent temptations from establishing control over our thoughts and internal state.
| Blank No. | Context | Most Appropriate Word | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|---|
| (2) | ...gaining a foothold in our ______ | minds | Temptation affects thoughts and attention, which are functions of the mind. The passage discusses diverting attention to good thoughts. |
Revision Table: Understanding Key Vocabulary
| Word from Passage | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| Temptations | Things that attract or tempt someone, often towards something wrong or unwise. |
| Lure | To tempt a person or an animal to do something or go somewhere, especially by offering some form of reward. |
| Foothold | A secure position from which further progress can be made; in this context, gaining influence or control. |
| Detect | To notice or discover something. |
| Watchful | Keeping careful watch; attentive. |
| Divert | To change the direction or course of something. |
| Severe | Very great; intense. |
Additional Information: Resisting Temptation Strategies
The passage outlines several practical strategies for resisting temptation:
- Early Detection: Recognize the signs of temptation as soon as they appear.
- Redirection: Consciously shift your focus and attention towards positive or constructive thoughts and activities.
- Avoidance: Steer clear of situations, places, or people that are likely to expose you to temptation. Prevention is often easier than resistance.
- Seeking Support: Don't hesitate to talk to trusted friends or advisors when facing difficult temptations.
Effectively dealing with temptation involves both internal vigilance (minds) and external actions (avoiding situations, seeking help).
Important Questions from Cloze Test
What would come in blank space (1)?
What would come in blank space (2)?
What would come in blank space (3)?
What would come in blank space (4)?
What would come in blank space (5)?
