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SSC CGL Preparation – Day 18
English – Fill in the Blanks (Advanced)
🔍 What is a Fill in the Blanks Question?
“Fill in the Blanks” questions test your understanding of grammar, vocabulary, sentence structure, and contextual comprehension. You are required to choose the most appropriate word(s) to complete a sentence meaningfully.
In advanced-level questions, the focus is more on:
- High-level vocabulary
- Grammar traps
- Collocations and phrasal verbs
- Logical connectors
- Tone and flow of ideas
🎯 Types of Fill in the Blanks in SSC CGL
| Type | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Single Blank | One word missing | The soldier was ___ to duty. (loyal) |
| Double Blanks | Two words missing, both must fit logically | His ___ attitude and ___ decisions led to disaster. |
| Grammar-focused | Tests verb tense, preposition, articles | She has been working here ___ five years. |
| Vocabulary-based | Requires strong word choice | The criminal showed no ___ for his actions. (remorse) |
| Logical connectors | Tests contrast/addition (although, however, moreover) | ___ he is rich, he lives simply. |
🧠 Skills Tested
- Grammar (Tense, Subject-Verb Agreement, Prepositions, Articles)
- Vocabulary & Word Usage
- Sentence Flow and Logical Consistency
- Knowledge of Common Collocations & Idioms
🧩 Advanced Grammar Traps to Watch
| Error Type | Common Trap | Correction |
|---|---|---|
| Tense Agreement | She ___ since morning. (worked) | has been working |
| Preposition Confusion | He is good ___ math. (at/on) | at |
| Article Usage | He is ___ honest man. | an |
| Wrong Collocation | She made a big mistake (✅), not blunder. | Use natural word pairs |
| Connector Confusion | ___ he is old, he works. | Although |
✍️ Approach to Solve Fill in the Blanks
- Read the full sentence first, not just the blank.
- Identify the tone – positive, negative, contrasting, neutral.
- Use grammar rules to eliminate wrong tenses, articles, or prepositions.
- Use logic – does the sentence still make sense after inserting the word?
- Eliminate incorrect options – look for subtle traps.
- Don’t guess from meaning alone – check grammatical fit too.
📚 Commonly Used Advanced Vocabulary Words
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Prerogative | Right or privilege | It’s his prerogative to decide. |
| Repercussion | Consequence | The war had severe repercussions. |
| Alacrity | Eagerness | She accepted the offer with alacrity. |
| Conundrum | A confusing problem | It’s a moral conundrum. |
| Scrutinize | Examine closely | The report was scrutinized. |
💡 Tips to Master Advanced Fill in the Blanks
✅ Read editorials to see advanced vocabulary in use.
✅ Practice double blank questions for combined grammar + vocab training.
✅ Maintain a collocation list (e.g., “bear a grudge”, “strike a deal”)
✅ Watch out for idioms and phrasal verbs – these are heavily tested.
✅ Time yourself: Target 30 seconds/question in real exams.
📝 Sample SSC CGL-Level Question (Double Blank)
👉 Question:
Despite being __ by many for his rigid views, the leader remained __ in his resolve.
A) criticized, steadfast
B) admired, hesitant
C) ignored, confused
D) praised, fickle
✅ Answer: A) criticized, steadfast
🧠 Explanation: “Despite being…” = contrast, so he was criticized, yet remained strong/firm = steadfast.
🧾 Grammar Patterns to Master for Fill in the Blanks
- Subject + Verb + Object + Preposition + Noun (e.g., depend on hard work)
- Adjective + Noun (e.g., blatant lie, vivid imagination)
- Adverb + Verb (e.g., strongly recommend, deeply regret)
- Idioms: “Cut corners”, “Throw in the towel”, “At loggerheads”
✅ Quick Recap Checklist
✔ Identify tone of sentence
✔ Use grammar and context
✔ Eliminate wrong/awkward options
✔ Know common word pairings (collocations)
✔ Practice with timer daily
✔ Read to build vocabulary in context
