GATE EE 2020 Set 1 — Question 4

MCQ+1 / -0.33EasyVocabulary (Words, Idioms, Phrases in Context)Verbal AptitudeGeneral Aptitude

General Aptitude → Verbal Aptitude → Vocabulary (Words, Idioms, Phrases in Context)

Last updated 5 September 2026

Question

Stock markets_______________at the news of the coup.

Correct answer (B) plunged Solution The word "plunged" means to fall suddenly and quickly. In the context of stock markets reacting to news of a coup, a sudden and rapid decline is the most appropriate and common reaction. Therefore, "plunged" fits best. (A) "Poised" means balanced or ready, which is not a typical reaction to a coup. (B) "Plunged" accurately describes a sudden and significant drop, which is expected in stock markets after negative news like a coup. (C) "Plugged" means to stop or fill, which doesn't make sense in this context. (D) "Probed" means to investigate or explore, which is not an action taken by stock markets themselves. Thus, the correct option is (B). Turn this into a strength. Explore AI-powered practice and doubt support with Success Tracker.

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Correct answer (B) plunged Solution The word "plunged" means to fall suddenly and quickly. In the context of stock markets reacting to news of a coup, a sudden and rapid decline is the most appropriate and common reaction. Therefore, "plunged" fits best. (A) "Poised" means balanced or ready, which is not a typical reaction to a coup. (B) "Plunged" accurately describes a sudden and significant drop, which is expected in stock markets after negative news like a coup. (C) "Plugged" means to stop or fill, which doesn't make sense in this context. (D) "Probed" means to investigate or explore, which is not an action taken by stock markets themselves. Thus, the correct option is (B).

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