In the following passage, some of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and select the correct answer for the given blank out of the four alternatives. It is this fact which makes it _______________(1) necessary that our interests shall be broad and pure if our thoughts are to be of this type. It is _________(2) enough that we have the strength to drive from our minds a wrong or impure thought which seeks ____________(3). To stand guard as a policeman over our thoughts to see that no unworthy one enters, requires _______(4) much time and energy. Our interests must be of such a nature as to lead us away from the field of unworthy thoughts _________(5) we are to be free from their tyranny.
which seeks ____________(3). To stand guard
entrance
Filling Blank (3) in the Passage
The question asks us to fill in the third blank in the given passage. Let's look at the sentence containing blank (3): "It is _________(2) enough that we have the strength to drive from our minds a wrong or impure thought which seeks ____________(3)." We need to choose the word that best completes the phrase "which seeks ____________(3)."
Analyzing the Phrase "which seeks ____________(3)"
The verb "seeks" means tries to find, obtain, or achieve something. It can be followed by a noun phrase (the thing sought) or an infinitive (the action sought). In this context, a wrong or impure thought is actively trying to gain entry into the mind. We need a word that describes the goal or action of the thought seeking to enter.
Evaluating the Options for Blank (3)
Let's examine each option:
- Option 1: entrance
The word 'entrance' is a noun meaning the act of coming in or going in. The phrase "which seeks entrance" means the thought is trying to gain entry. This fits the context of a thought trying to get into the mind.
- Option 2: enter
'Enter' is a base verb. "which seeks enter" is grammatically incorrect. The verb 'seeks' usually takes a noun phrase or an infinitive ('to enter') as its object.
- Option 3: entering
'Entering' is the present participle or gerund form of the verb 'enter'. As a gerund, it can function as a noun (the act of entering). "which seeks entering" could grammatically mean the thought seeks the act of entering. However, "seeks entrance" is a more common and natural phrasing when referring to trying to gain access or admission.
- Option 4: enters
'Enters' is the third-person singular present tense of the verb 'enter'. "which seeks enters" is grammatically incorrect. 'Seeks' requires a noun phrase or infinitive as its object, not another conjugated verb.
Comparing Options and Determining the Best Fit
Comparing the grammatically correct options (1 and 3), "seeks entrance" is the most idiomatic and natural way to express the idea of something attempting to gain entry or admission, especially in the context of thoughts entering the mind. "Seeks entering" is possible but less common and slightly less clear in this specific context compared to "seeks entrance."
Therefore, the word that best completes the phrase is "entrance".
| Option | Word | Grammatical Fit | Meaning in Context | Suitability |
| 1 | entrance | Noun (object of 'seeks') | The thought seeks to gain entry. | Best Fit (Idiomatic and clear) |
| 2 | enter | Base verb | Grammatically incorrect. | Unsuitable |
| 3 | entering | Gerund (object of 'seeks') | The thought seeks the act of entering. | Possible, but less idiomatic than 'entrance'. |
| 4 | enters | Present tense verb | Grammatically incorrect. | Unsuitable |
The completed sentence fragment is: "...a wrong or impure thought which seeks entrance."
Revision Table: Understanding Passage Blanks
Reviewing passages with blanks helps improve vocabulary and understanding of sentence structure. Identifying the grammatical role needed for the blank (e.g., noun, verb, adjective, adverb) is the first step. Then, consider the meaning and context of the surrounding words and sentences to choose the most appropriate word from the options provided.
Additional Information: Vocabulary and Context
Understanding the meaning of words like "seeks," "impure," "unworthy," and "tyranny" is crucial for comprehending the overall message of the passage. The passage discusses the importance of having pure interests to prevent unworthy thoughts from entering the mind, highlighting the effort required to stand guard against them or, preferably, to cultivate interests that naturally lead away from such thoughts.
Important Questions from Vocab Based Questions
Select whichever word you consider most appropriate for the blank (1)
Select whichever word you consider most appropriate for the blank (2)
Select whichever word you consider most appropriate for the blank (3)
Select whichever word you consider most appropriate for the blank (4)
Select whichever word you consider most appropriate for the blank (5)
