Q.60 Choose the most appropriate alternative from the options given below to complete the following
sentence:
Despite several ––––––––– the mission succeeded in its attempt to resolve the conflict.
(A) attempts (B) setbacks (C) meetings (D) delegations
Correct Answer: Option (B) Setbacks
“Setbacks” perfectly fits, meaning temporary delays or hindrances. The contrast in “despite… succeeded” demands a negative obstacle word, creating logical opposition: despite obstacles, success occurred. This idiomatic pairing (“despite setbacks”) is common in formal English.
Detailed Explanation of All Options
Understand why other words fail through contextual logic and collocation rules.
Option (A): Attempts (Incorrect)
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Means efforts or tries, which would redundantly repeat “attempt” later: “Despite several attempts… succeeded in its attempt.”
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Creates illogical repetition, not contrast.
Option (B): Setbacks (Correct)
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Refers to reversals or obstacles, providing clear contrast to “succeeded.”
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Natural collocation: “overcome setbacks,” “mission setbacks.”
Option (C): Meetings (Incorrect)
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Neutral events; “despite meetings” implies no hindrance, weakening success emphasis.
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Lacks oppositional tone needed for “despite.”
Option (D): Delegations (Incorrect)
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Groups of representatives; contextually odd for a mission’s internal challenges.
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Doesn’t convey obstacles, just participants.
| Option | Meaning | Fits “Despite… Succeeded”? | Why/Why Not |
|---|---|---|---|
| (A) Attempts | Efforts/tries | No | Redundant with “attempt” |
| (B) Setbacks | Obstacles/delays | Yes | Creates logical contrast |
| (C) Meetings | Gatherings | No | Neutral, no opposition |
| (D) Delegations | Representative groups | No | Irrelevant to hindrances |
Strategies for Sentence Completion Questions
Prioritize sentence completion english logic: “despite” signals adversity preceding success. Scan for contrast clues (succeeded, resolve). Eliminate redundancies and neutral words first. Practice 50+ questions focusing on prepositions like despite, although.
Pro Tip: Read editorials daily; note phrases like “despite hurdles/setbacks.” Aim for 95% accuracy by testing all options aloud for natural flow.
