Question

His appearance is unsmiling but ____

• A. his heart is full of compassion for others
• B. he looks very serious on most occasions
• C. people are afraid of him
• D. he is uncompromising on matters of task performance

Hint:

When a stem uses “but,” expect the second clause to show an unexpected trait, opposite to the first clause.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Recognize “but” as contrast marker.
The sentence sets up a contrast between external appearance (unsmiling) and internal nature (likely positive).
Step 2: Choose the most contrasting idea.
Option (a) gives the contrast: though he appears unsmiling, he is compassionate. Options (b), (c), and (d) are consistent with being unsmiling, but do not offer contrast—they reinforce seriousness or strictness.
\[ \boxed{\text{(a) his heart is full of compassion for others}} \]