Question

Fill in the correct word keeping in mind the lest-should condition:

The construction needs to be perfect, lest the roof should ________.

• A. destruct
• B. fall
• C. decay
• D. None of these

Answer 1

The correct option is B fall

"Lest" means "for fear that" or "in order to avoid" and is usually followed by something that should be avoided. Moreover, the construction of "should" in such a sentence is usually should + verb (base form of the infinitive).

Option B is correct as it follows the above construction. Moreover, the falling roof is a situation the must be avoided, making it the correct answer.

Option A is incorrect. The sentence implies that if the construction is not perfect, then the roof might fall or collapse. "Destruct" is damage done deliberately and not the result of a mistake in the construction. Thus, it is better not to use this word.

Option C is incorrect for a similar reason as A. The sentence describes a situation that would be the direct result of a faulty construction. "Decay", however, would not be the result of an imperfect construction. It is a long process that takes years to occur due to lack of maintenance. Thus it is an incorrect word to use in this case.

Option D is incorrect since the answer lies in B.