Select the grammatically correct sentence from the following: (Translation: Which of the following sentences is grammatically correct?)

Appeared in: DSSSB 14 August 2024

Explanation

The sentence is grammatically correct because it uses the proper Devanagari spelling for the name Kalidas, which is 'कालिदास'.
The name is a compound of 'काली' (the goddess) and 'दास' (servant).
As per a key rule of Sanskrit grammar (sandhi) that influences Hindi, the long vowel 'ई' (ī) in 'काली' shortens to a short vowel 'इ' (i) when forming the compound word.
This makes 'कालिदास' the only historically and grammatically accurate spelling.

Option B: The spelling 'कलिदास' is incorrect because it omits the 'आ' (ā) matra in the first syllable, changing 'का' to 'क'.
Option C: This option is a duplicate of the correct answer (A). In a standard multiple-choice question, having identical options is a flaw in the question's construction.
Option D: The spelling 'कालीदास' is a very common but incorrect form. It fails to apply the grammatical rule of shortening the long 'ई' (ī) vowel of 'काली' to a short 'इ' (i) in the compound word.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Hindi Grammar: Spelling (हिन्दी व्याकरण: वर्तनी) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question tests general aptitude and language proficiency, which is a common component of nursing entrance examinations in India.
Strong language and communication skills are fundamental for nurses to ensure clear patient education, effective collaboration with the healthcare team, and accurate medical documentation.
Attention to detail, as tested in this spelling question, is a critical trait for nurses to prevent medical errors.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully read all four sentences to identify the point of variation. Notice that the only difference is the spelling of the name 'कालिदास'.
Recognize that the question is a test of correct Hindi spelling (वर्तनी), not sentence structure.
Recall the etymology of the name. It is linked to the goddess 'काली'.
Apply the grammatical rule for compound words (समास) where vowels often change. The combination of 'काली' (long 'ई') and 'दास' results in 'कालिदास' (short 'इ').
Eliminate the options with incorrect vowels: 'कलिदास' is missing the 'आ' matra, and 'कालीदास' incorrectly uses a long 'ई' matra.
Select the option that correctly spells the name as 'कालिदास'.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full DSSSB 14 August 2024

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