Question

Fill up the blanks numbered (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) in the passage given below with the most appropriate word from the options given for each blank. 'c' is:
The main objective of art and (a) living is to develop (b) sensibilities and skills of healthful living besides providing a (c) ground for love of labour, (d) social attitudes and moral values so as to enable the child to be (e) to the ideas of others with humility and sincerity in thought, word and deed. Love for mankind and helping the needy would (f) at this stage and its culmination would be in terms of attainment of selfless service.

• A. nurturing
• B. fruitful
• C. attractive
• D. interesting

Hint:

When filling blanks, look for words that form common collocations with the surrounding words. In educational or value-based contexts, terms like “nurturing environment” or “nurturing ground” are often used to indicate supportive development.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understand the phrase structure The phrase in the passage is “providing a (c) ground for love of labour.” This indicates that the blank should be an adjective that describes a kind of “ground” or foundation that encourages or promotes love of labour.
Step 2: Evaluate the options
- “Nurturing” (1) — Perfect fit, as it means fostering growth, development, or positive attitudes. “Nurturing ground” is a common collocation meaning an environment that supports development.
- “Fruitful” (2) — Means productive or yielding good results, but it doesn’t quite fit with “ground for love of labour” as naturally as “nurturing” does.
- “Attractive” (3) — This suggests drawing attention, which is not relevant to the idea of promoting values.
- “Interesting” (4) — Not suitable, as it refers to engaging attention, not fostering growth.
Step 3: Logical fit The phrase “nurturing ground” is a standard expression for a supportive environment, making it the most contextually and grammatically appropriate choice. \[ \boxed{\text{nurturing}} \]