Choose the most appropriate conjunction from the options given to fill in the blank in the sentence below.
You cannot participate in the contest ___ you clear the interview.

Correct option is A

The correct option is (a) unless.

Explanation:
The sentence expresses a negative condition — participation in the contest is possible only if the interview is cleared. The conjunction unless means except if or if not, and is used to introduce a negative condition.

Correct answer – unless:
Unless = if not / except if. It introduces the only condition under which the main clause will not happen.
(Hindi meaning: जब तक ... नहीं / यदि ... नहीं तो)
Example: You cannot enter the hall unless you have a valid ticket.

Grammatical Rule (English):
Structure: Main clause (negative) + unless + condition clause

Explanation of Other Options:

• (b) Better – An adjective/adverb; not a conjunction and does not fit grammatically.
• (c) Whereas – Used to contrast two different facts (जबकि); does not introduce a condition.
• (d) So that – Used to express purpose (ताकि); e.g., Study hard so that you pass. Does not introduce a restrictive condition.