Read the given passage and answer the four questions that follow:-

He had no idea what it would be like, of course, and was pleased when Robinson Street proved to be leafy and relatively quiet, lined with large mansions. Number twenty-two was one of the older buildings, a massive four-story edifice, studded with graceful columned balconies: probably once the grandest building on the street, its Doric facade was now much bruised and discoloured, its plaster blacked with mildew. He went up to the fourth floor in a rattling birdcage of a lift that ascended through the center of a winding teak wood staircase. When the lift came to a stop, Murugan stepped gingerly on to the splintered planks of a wooden landing. A beam of sunlight, shining through a hole in a stained-glass window, revealed a small sign beside the tall door to his right. It said: 'The Robinson Guest House'. Beneath it was a nameplate for 'N. Aratounian'. Dragging his leather suitcase behind him, Murugan went to the door and rang the bell. Several minutes later, he heard footsteps on the other side. The door swung open, and he found himself looking at an ashen-faced, elderly woman in a frayed dressing grown and rubber slippers. 'Hi,' said Murugan, sticking out a hand. 'Any vacancies today? Ignoring his hand, the woman looked him up and down, frowning through her gold rimmed bifocals.

The attitude of the elderly woman towards Murugan was _____.

disdainful and irritating

The correct answer is Option (4) → disdainful and irritating

The passage describes the woman's interaction with Murugan with strong negative cues:

• Ashen-faced, elderly woman in a frayed dressing gown: Suggests a general state of being worn out or unwell, not a pleasant disposition.

• Ignoring his hand: Directly rejecting Murugan's attempt at a polite greeting, showing disdain or lack of welcome.

• Looked him up and down, frowning: A judgmental and critical physical action.

Therefore, the most fitting description of her attitude is one of strong negative emotion and rejection, best encapsulated by disdainful (showing contempt) and irritating (by ignoring his greeting).

Why Other Options are Incorrect 

• Pleasant and welcoming: Directly contradicted by her ignoring his handshake and frowning.

• Effusive and garrulous: Effusive (expressing feelings warmly) and garrulous (talkative) are contradicted by her silent, frowning assessment.

• Taciturn and placid: Taciturn (reserved or uncommunicative) is somewhat true, but placid (peaceful/calm) is contradicted by the strong negativity of her frown and snub.