Multiple choice

Directions: Choose the most appropriate word/verb phrase from the given options and fill blank (iv).

To see Gokhale in interaction was as (i) ____________ a joy as interactive education. He never wasted a minute. His private relations and friendships (ii) ____________ for public good. His interests were (iii) ____________ only on the good of the country. They (iv) ____________ absolutely free from any trace of untruth (v) ____________ insincerity. India’s (vi) ____________ and subjection were matters of constant and intense concern to him. Various people (vii) ____________ to draw his interest in different things but he could not be. He only (viii) ____________ freedom for his country.

  1. was

  2. were

  3. had been

  4. have been

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

The subject 'They' refers to 'His interests' and 'private relations', which is plural. The sentence describes historical facts about Gokhale, requiring past tense. 'Were' is both plural and past tense, correctly matching the subject and historical context. 'Was' is singular, perfect tenses are incorrect for simple narrative.