Prabhavna has to go to meet ______ mother today. What is the most suitable case marker for the blank?

Appeared in: DSSSB October 2024

Explanation

'apni' because it is the reflexive possessive pronoun used when the subject of the sentence (Prabhavna) is also the possessor of the object (mother).
In Hindi, the form of the reflexive pronoun (apna, apni, apne) must agree with the gender and number of the noun it modifies, not the subject.
Since 'mother' (maa) is a feminine noun, the feminine form 'apni' is required, making the sentence grammatically correct.
The sentence translates to 'Prabhavna has to go to meet her (own) mother today,' correctly showing the relationship between the subject and the object.

Option A: 'mein' is a postposition that means 'in' and is used to indicate location. It does not show possession.
Option C: 'ke liye' is a postposition that means 'for' and is used to indicate purpose or a beneficiary. It does not show possession.
Option D: 'se' is a postposition with multiple meanings like 'from,' 'with,' or 'by.' It is used to show separation, origin, comparison, or the instrument of an action, but not possession in this context.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Hindi Grammar: Reflexive Possessive Pronouns as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question tests general language and aptitude skills, which are a component of many competitive examinations, including those for nursing positions.
Strong communication skills, including a good grasp of grammar, are essential for nurses to effectively communicate with patients, families, and colleagues, ensuring clarity and avoiding misunderstandings.
What if the noun was masculine, like 'father' (pita)? The correct pronoun would still be based on the noun's gender, but usage can be tricky. For 'father', 'apne' is often used out of respect (apne pita), even though 'pita' is singular, treating it as a respectful plural.

How to Approach the Question

First, read the sentence and identify the subject and the object: the subject is 'Prabhavna,' and the object is 'mother.'
Recognize that the sentence implies the mother belongs to Prabhavna. This relationship requires a possessive word.
Ask yourself if the possessor is the same as the subject of the sentence. Here, yes, Prabhavna (subject) owns/is related to the mother.
This signals the need for a Hindi reflexive pronoun ('apna/apni/apne'), not a regular possessive pronoun or a preposition.
Determine the gender of the noun being possessed. 'Mother' (maa) is feminine.
Select the correct form of the reflexive pronoun that matches the feminine noun, which is 'apni.'

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Hindi Grammar: Reflexive Possessive Pronouns
Stem keywords: Hindi grammar, case marker, possessive pronoun, fill in the blank
Lead-in keywords: most suitable
Negative lead-in flag: false

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Practise the full DSSSB October 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.