Question

Choose the correct option to fill the blank.

The English schemed to continue their rule in India by playing off one community _____ the other.

• A. before
• B. upon
• C. against
• D. with

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

against

The given sentence conveys the idea of conflict between the Indian communities. Therefore 'against' is the suitable answer, since 'against' is generally used to depict the idea of conflict. Thus option C is correct. On the other hand 'before' is used to depict something earlier. Hence option A is incorrect. The preposition 'upon' is used to define onto something, while 'with' is used to convey the sense of company or presence of someone. Since the sentence speaks about the idea of conflict, 'upon' and 'with' are unsuitable in the given context. Hence they are incorrect.

Thus the completed sentence becomes: The English schemed to continue their rule in India by playing off one community against the other.