Question

Fill in the blank with the most appropriate option-
When indecision grips a nation, free men feel the need for an _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ruler and are prepared to throw democracy overboard.
a) Optimistic
b) Autocratic
c) Eccentric
d) Energetic

Answer 1

Hint:The context here refers to ‘indecision gripping a nation ... who can throw democracy or free-thinking overboard'. This indicates a need for a strict and powerful leader for that nation.

Complete answer:
In the given question, we are asked to fill in the blank given in the sentence. Here, we must know the meaning of all the options given to find out the correct answer.
Now, let us examine all the given options to find out the correct answer :
Option ‘a’ is Optimistic. It is an adjective that means hopeful and confident about the future. For example the optimistic mood of the Sixties.
Option ‘b’ is Autocratic. It is an adjective that means relating to a ruler who has absolute power. It suits the context as it means a ruler will not do as being a democracy implies being ruled by elected representatives of the whole population. It implies diluted power. example: The constitutional reforms threatened his autocratic power.
Option ‘c’ is Eccentric. It is an adjective which means unconventional and slightly strange. For example He noted her eccentric appearance.
Option ‘d’ is Energetic. It is an adjective that means showing or involving great activity or vitality. For example Moderately energetic exercise.
As we have analyzed all the given options, we can easily figure out the correct answer. Here, the word which can be filled in the given blank of the sentence – autocratic. So, the complete sentence would be – When indecision grips a nation, free men feel the need for an autocratic ruler and are prepared to throw democracy overboard. Hence, option ‘b' is the correct option.

Note:
Don’t get confused between ‘autocratic’ and ‘optimistic’. 'Optimistic' is a future thing, one can only feel it for the future, unlike ‘autocratic'.