If you choose plan P, you will have to _________ plan Q, as these two are mutually _________. A. forgo, exclusive B. forget, inclusive C. accept, exhaustive D. adopt, intrusive

GATE 2017 · General Aptitude · Word Meaning · medium

Answer: A. forgo, exclusive — choosing P requires you to forgo Q, as they are mutually exclusive.

1. Fill blank 1 — find the correct verb: The verb must mean 'to give up or abandon'. Forgo = give up (correct). Forget = fail to remember (wrong context). Accept and adopt mean taking on, not giving up — contradicts the logic.
2. Fill blank 2 — find the correct adjective: The adjective describes why choosing P forces you to give up Q. 'Mutually exclusive' is the standard phrase meaning 'cannot both be selected'. Inclusive = includes all (opposite). Exhaustive = covering all cases. Intrusive = invading others' space. Only 'exclusive' fits.