Directions: In this section an underlined word has been used variously in three sentences S1, S2 and S3. You are required to determine in how many sentences has the word been used correctly, and mark your answer from the options (a), (b) or (c) given below. If the word has not been correctly used in any one or more of the given sentences mark your response as (d).
S1: The moribund state of the decaying colony depressed everyone.
S2: The strength of the collective remained moribund despite attempts at scuttling unity.
S3: Driven by a common purpose, the moribund group decided it would prevail notwithstanding the adverseness of the situation.
- A1
- B2
- C3
- DNone
Explanation
'Moribund' means in terminal decline or near death. S1 applies it correctly to a decaying colony. S2 stretches it to 'strength', which cannot be moribund in the word's core sense, and S3 contradicts the word by having a dying group resolve to prevail. Only S1 is a clean usage, so the count is 1. Note: this key is disputed — verify against the official UPSC key.