Question

Choose the correct word/phrase to complete the sentence.
------- of your performance in the exam, you will get admission to the course.
A. Irrespective
B. Despite
C. Nevertheless
D. Notwithstanding

Answer 1

Hint: In this question we need to find a word which appropriately completes the sentence. Since in this question our motive is to find an appropriate word so our approach will be to find a word which will produce a meaningful sentence.

Complete step by step solution:
Option A. Irrespective

The word irrespective simply means regardless. The word irrespective is an adjective which is used to specify or modify the word performance when irrespective is used in the sentence the sentence means “Regardless of your performance in the exam, you will get admission to the course”. This simply means your performance in the exams whether it is good or bad will not be a criteria in the admission.
Now let us see our next option.

Option B. Despite

The word ``despite ``also means regardless of when we say that “Despite your performance in the exam, you will get admission to the course”. We mean we are using two prepositions at the same time which is grammatically incorrect as despite means regardless of where is a preposition and it is again being followed by the preposition ‘of” so despite can only be used in this sentence if the blank continued with the word performance. So, here despite is the wrong option.

Option C: Nevertheless

The word nevertheless means nonetheless; notwithstanding; In spite of that. All three words have the same meaning and are used to contrast the earlier used statement. But the question nevertheless cannot be used initially in the sentence because it is used to contrast the existing statement. So, this is also the wrong option. Using nevertheless in the beginning of a unique or single sentence is grammatically incorrect.
Let us take a glance over the last option.

Option D: Notwithstanding

The word notwithstanding simply means In spite of that where In spite of that is used to contrast a given statement. Also the word notwithstanding is a preposition so it cannot be used in the blank as the blank gets continued by another preposition. So, this option is also incorrect as notwithstanding cannot be used in the beginning of the sentence, it will be grammatically incorrect.

So, the correct option for the given question is “Option A: Irrespective”

Note: You must have understood the meaning of all the options correctly and must have chosen the correct option. You must be clear about nouns, pronouns, adjectives, prepositions. Also remember that two prepositions cannot be used simultaneously.