Out of the given alternatives given choose the most appropriate option.
________ the better team, we lost the match.

Correct option is A

The correct option to fill in the blank is (a) Despite being.
• Explanation:
– The sentence shows contrast between being the better team and losing.
– “Despite being” introduces a contrast with a noun or gerund (“being”).
• Grammatical rule used:
– Use “ despite + gerund/noun” to contrast two situations, showing something unexpected.
• Explanation in Hindi:
– जब दो विरोधाभासी बातें हों, तो “despite + ing form” का प्रयोग होता है जैसे: “अच्छा होने के बावजूद हार गए”।
• Example:
– Despite being rich, he lives a simple life. ✅
Meanings of the other options:
• (b) Despite of being ❌
– English: “Despite” is not followed by “of” – incorrect usage.
– Hindi: गलत संरचना
• (c) Although ❌
– English: Requires full clause, not used with “being” alone.
– Hindi: हालांकि
• (d) Despite the fact ❌
– English: Incomplete phrase – needs “that” clause.
– Hindi: तथ्य के बावजूद (अधूरा वाक्य)