BPSC AE Paper 1 (General English) 2019 Official Paper (Previous Year Paper)

The correct answer is option 3, i.e., part C.

• Part C uses the preposition 'for', which is incorrect here.
• To accuse- charge (someone) with an offence or crime. e.g. I accused him of murder.
• The verb 'To accuse' is generally used with the preposition 'of', i.e., To accuse someone 'of' doing something.
• So, the correct preposition here must also be 'of'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: Hemant accused the guard of stealing.

The correct answer is option 4, i.e., No Error.

• The sentence is free from any grammatical errors.
• Accustomed- make someone or something accept (something) as normal or usual; be used to something.
• e.g. I am accustomed to eating alone.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., part B.

• Part B uses the preposition 'against', which is incorrect here.
• Against- in opposition to; in resistance to something. e.g. He is against violence.
• This preposition does not fit the context of Raj being angry in relation to his son.
• The sentence, however, suggests that Raj was angry 'with' his son.
• So, the correct preposition to be used here becomes 'with'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: Raj was angry with his son.

The correct answer is option 3, i.e., part C.

• Part C uses the preposition 'for', which is incorrect here.
• The context suggests that there is no doubt 'regarding or about' his ability.
• So, the correct preposition here would be 'about'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: I have no doubts about his ability.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., part B.

• Part B uses the from 'to be treated', which is incorrect here.
• The sentence suggests that 'he' objects to something, which is a present condition of treatment.
• This means, the verb must show a present condition, which can only be shown by the present progressive tense form.
• The present progressive form of the verb 'to be treated' is 'being treated'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: He objects to being treated like this.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., part B.

• The part B uses the preposition 'for', which is incorrect here.
• Given the context of dedication, the correct preposition here should be 'of', which means 'belonging to someone'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: I am quite sure of her dedication.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., part B.

• Part B uses the preposition 'back' after the verb 'returned', which is incorrect.
• To return means come or go back to a place or person.
• So, the preposition 'back' is already intended in the verb 'to return'.
• This means there is no need to use the preposition 'back' after the verb 'returned'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: Naveen has returned to his home.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., part B.

• Part B uses the simple present tense verb 'pays', which is incorrect here.
• The sentence uses the auxiliary verb 'has' in part A.
• This suggests that the tense of the verb is present perfect tense.
• So, the main verb must be in its past participle form, viz, 'paid'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: He has already paid for his mistake.

The correct answer is option 3, i.e., part C.

• Part C uses the incorrect preposition 'to'.
• The sentence uses the adjective 'capable'.
• The adjective capable is never followed by an infinitive 'to'. The correct structure is 'capable of' doing something.
• So, here, the correct preposition must be capable 'of'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: Shamita is quite capable of doing this work.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., part A.

• Part A uses the simple present tense verb 'leaves', which is incorrect.
• The sentence uses the time-indicating term 'yesterday'.
• This suggests that the action shown by the main verb has already been done in the past.
• In this case, the correct tense to use is past tense, viz, simple past 'left' or past perfect 'had left'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: Shayan left the office quite early yesterday.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., part B.

• Part B uses the preposition 'to' after the verb 'told'; which is incorrect.
• The verb 'told' is simple past tense form of the verb 'To Tell'.
• To tell- communicate information to someone in spoken or written words. e.g. I told him about my day.
• Notice that in the verb 'To tell', presence of some listener is implicit, or taken for granted. So, it does not need an additional preposition such as 'to'.
• e.g. I told him a story vs I spoke 'to him'. Here, the verb 'to speak' is a verb that needs a preposition.
• In the given sentence, since the verb is 'told'; it does not require the preposition 'to'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: She told me to come at once.

The correct answer is option 4, i.e., No Error.

Chose: (Past of Choose); decide on a course of action, e.g. he chose to go.

The given sentence refers to a past time and is error-free grammatically.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., part B.

• Part B uses the incorrect verb form 'Called'.
• Whenever the tense indicative forms of the verb, viz, Do, Does, Did etc. are used, the corresponding main verb is always in its normal, i.e., simple present tense form.
• e.g. Did you do your work?; He does not work here etc.
• In this case, since the sentence already uses the verb 'Did', which shows past tense, there is no need to use past tense form of the main verb.
• So, the correct main verb would be the simple present tense form 'Call'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: Did you call the teacher?

The correct answer is option 4, i.e., No Error.

• The sentence is free from any grammatical errors.
• A rush is noun that means a sudden quick movement towards something, typically by a number of people.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., part A.

• Part A uses the incorrect determiner/pronoun 'that'.
• The sentence uses the conjunction phrase 'No sooner...than', which is used to join two sentences which happen right after each other.
• e.g. No sooner had he come, than he left again. OR No sooner did she speak than she heard the sound of the train.
• So, using the determiner 'that' here is incorrect; the correct word should be the conjunction 'than', which completes the above phrase.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: No sooner had she arrived than her friends surprised her with a party.

The correct answer is C.

Key Points:- 

• Part C uses the incorrect singular verb 'is'.
• Subject-verb agreement rule: A singular subject (he, flower) takes a singular verb (is, eats), whereas a plural subject (men) takes a plural verb (go, do).
• Here, the subject is the plural 'products', so, the corresponding verb must also be plural, i.e., 'are'.
• The middle part 'including the plates' is an adjective clause and is not considered while choosing the verb.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: All of our products including the plates are microwave safe.

​

Hinglish

• भाग सी गलत एकवचन क्रिया 'is' का प्रयोग करता है।
• विषय क्रिया समझौता नियम: एक विलक्षण विषय (singular subject) (he, flower) एक एकवचन क्रिया (is, eats) लेता है, जबकि एक बहुवचन विषय (men) एक बहुवचन क्रिया लेता है (go, do)।
• यहां, विषय बहुवचन 'products' है, इसलिए, संबंधित क्रिया, बहुवचन होना चाहिए, यानी, 'are'।
• मध्य भाग 'including the plates' एक विशेषण उपवाक्य है, और क्रिया को चुनते समय इस पर विचार नहीं किया जाता है।
  

​

इस प्रकार, सुधारा वाक्य है:  All of our products including the plates are microwave safe.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., part B.

• Part B uses the incorrect preposition 'for' the behalf.
• The correct preposition here should be 'on', which makes the phrase 'On the behalf of'.
• On the behalf of- something done as a representative of or a proxy for someone else. e.g. I thank you on the behalf of my team.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: She accepted the award on the behalf of her late father.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., part B.

• Part B uses the incorrect comparative degree of adjective 'more better'.
• 'Better' is already a comparative degree of the adjective 'good'. (Good, Better, Best). So, it does not require the additional word 'more' before it.
• The determiner 'more' is used before adjectives which do not change. e.g. more beautiful etc.
• Confusion point: Part C, with the verb 'were' may seem incorrect; but it is not. Using the verb 'were' shows subjunctive mood of the verb, used to show a hope/wish. e.g. I wish I were a bird.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: The cake would have looked better if it were red.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., part B.

• Part B uses the incorrect singular form of the noun 'friend'.
• Whenever there is the phrase 'One of' some noun; that noun must be in its plural form.
• This is so, because we are referring to one particular friend out of many friends.
• So, the correct word here would be the plural 'friends'.
• Confusion point: Part C, with the singular verb 'lives' may seem incorrect; but it not. Remember that we are referring to one friend, so the corresponding verb must also be singular.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: One of my friends lives in Chennai.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Part B.

• Part B uses the incorrect preposition 'at' after the verb 'absorbed'.
• 'Absorbed at' something does not make a meaningful sentence.
• Here, the correct preposition must be absorbed 'in' her work.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: She was absorbed in her work.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., took off.

The sentence uses the incorrect preposition 'out' after the verb 'took'.

Here, the context suggests that the verb must mean 'removed'.

Let's look at the meanings of the given verbs:

Took out- To take something out of its original place.

Took off- To remove something.

Took away- To take something away from its place. 

Put out- To keep something out of some place.

Out of these, only the preposition 'off' is appropriate after the verb 'took'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: We took off our hats when we entered the warm room.

The correct answer is option 4, i.e., No improvement.

• The sentence uses the correct question tag 'Shall we', for the verb 'Let us'.
• So, there is no need for improvement.

The correct answer is option 3, i.e., what the matter was.

• The sentence uses the incorrect structure 'what was matter'.
• Using the verb 'To be' after the interrogative 'Wh- questions' is the appropriate form for a question. i.e. What is her name?
• But; in reported speech or any other normal structure, the noun/pronoun follows the interrogative 'Wh- word', followed by the verb 'To be'. e.g. She asked what her name was.
• Here, there is no direct interrogative question; but a reported suggestion of the matter.
• So, the correct structure here would be the reported structure: 'what the matter was'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: It took me a while to understand what the matter was.

The correct answer is option 4, i.e., No improvement.

• The sentence uses the correct form 'as tall as', and needs no improvement.
• 'As.. as' shows comparisons of equality, where two things are equal in some way.
• The comparisons may involve adjectives (tall, short) adverbs (well, badly) after the first as, and noun phrases or clauses after the second as.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e. have spilled.

• The sentence uses the incorrect auxiliary verb 'has' for the main verb 'spilled'.
• Whenever the verb 'To have' is used as an auxiliary verb after a modal verb such as 'must' or 'should', it is always taken as 'have', for all nouns, singular or plural.
• E.g. She must have failed and They must have failed both will take 'have'.
• Here, the sentence uses the modal verb 'must', showing insistence or obligation.
• This means even for the singular noun 'Ranjan', the correct auxiliary form would be 'must have spilled'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: Ranjan must have spilled the milk.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., has.

• The sentence uses the incorrect present continuous form 'is having'.
• The present continuous form of the verb 'To have', meaning 'to own', usually merges into the simple present tense form 'has/have'.
• Exception: When 'To have' is used for any other meaning, such as He is having ice cream or He is having a heart attack etc.
• Here, the verb 'To Have' uses the meaning 'To own'. So, in this case, the correct form would be 'has', for the singular noun 'She'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: She has a lot of coins in her purse.

The correct answer is option 3, i.e., have had enough.

Key Points

• The sentence uses the verb 'had enough', which is grammatically incomplete.
• Using 'had enough' gives incomplete information regarding the sentence (had enough of what?).
• The grammatically correct way is to say 'have had enough'.
• Here, the first 'have'= the auxiliary verb, showing present perfect tense; the second 'had'= past participle form of the verb 'To have'.
• 'Have had enough' gives complete information, as 'enough' now becomes the adverb for the verb 'Have had'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: I have had enough of his arrogant behaviour.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., will have left

Key Points

• The sentence uses the simple future tense form 'will leave', which is incorrect.
• The sentence uses the relative progress conjunction phrase 'By the time'.
• By the time is followed by a clause that shows a time-frame for the progress of the main verb, relative to the second verb. Here, generally, the perfect tenses are used.
• For example:
• By the time it stops raining, we shall have reached home.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: The train will have left by the time we reach the station. Hurry up.

The correct answer is option 3, i.e., so am I.

• The sentence uses the phrase 'I also', which is grammatically incorrect.
• Here, the first sentence is a statement, to which the second sentence shows a similar response to the first.
• That is, My mother is worried and I am also worried. Both sentences show an agreement. In such cases, the conjunction/preposition 'So/as' is used.
• Whenever the first sentence uses a form of the verb 'To be'; the correct way to use 'So/As' in the second sentence is 'So am I'.
• In this case, the first verb uses the 'To be' form 'is'. This means, the second sentence should use the form 'So am I'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: My mother is worried about my brother's grades and so am I.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., have been working.

Key Points

• The sentence uses the present continuous tense 'am working', which is incorrect.
• The sentence uses the adverb clause 'since morning'.
• This suggests that the second action has been happening for quite some time and continues in the present (shown by the first verb, 'am exhausted').
• This means the correct tense here is the present perfect tense, which shows actions from recent past, continuing into present.
• So, the correct verb here is the present perfect 'have been working'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: I am exhausted as I have been working since morning.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., neither did I.

Key Points

• The sentence uses the incorrect negation 'I did not neither'.
• Given that the main verb is simple past tense 'did not', the correct negation here becomes 'neither/nor did I'.
• Note: Neither/Nor did I are both grammatically correct in this case.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: He did not know the lyrics to the song, neither did I.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., for four hours.

The sentence uses the preposition 'from', which is incorrect here.

The time-indicative 'four hours', suggests that the action of waiting was continuously happening 'for the duration of' four hours.

Now, let's see how the given prepositions are used:

From- the point in space at which something starts. e.g. I was waiting from 6 o' clock to 8 o'clock.

For- throughout the period/duration of something. e.g. I was waiting for ten hours.

About- used to express location in a particular place; approximately. e.g. I was waiting for about two hours. 

Until- up to (the point in time or the event mentioned). e.g. I was waiting until 8 o' clock.

Out of these, only the preposition 'for' shows the intended meaning in the sentence.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: He told me that he had been waiting for four hours.

The correct answer is option 3, i.e., the higher.

Key Points

• The sentence uses the adjective 'higher' alone, which is incorrect.
• The nouns/adjectives usually take an appropriate article such as a/an/the.
• Here, the grammatically correct way to use the comparative adjective 'higher' is using the article 'the' before it.
• The earlier adjective, viz, 'greater' takes the article 'the'; so, the adjective 'higher' must also use the same.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: The greater the demand, the higher the price.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., beneficial.

The sentence uses the adjective 'benevolent', which means well meaning and kindly.

Benevolent is incorrect here, given the context of 'eating fruits'. The correct word here should mean 'good' for health.

Let's look at the meanings of the given options:

Beneficial- resulting in good; favourable or advantageous.

Bounteous- generously given or giving; bountiful.

Beneficent- (of a person) generous or doing good.

Out of these, only Beneficial shows the meaning that is intended by the sentence.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: Eating fruits is beneficial for health.

The correct answer is had planned.

Key Points

• The sentence uses the past progressive form 'was planning', which is incorrect here.
• There are two actions in this sentence- 'persuading' me and 'planning a trip'. Both of these events take place in the past. When two actions occur in the past, the action occurring earlier('planning a trip') takes the present perfect tense and the action occurring later('persuading') takes the simple past tense.
• Thus we have to replace 'was planning' with 'had planned'.

He persuaded me to accompany him on a trip he had planned a month ago.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., got carried away.

The sentence uses the verb 'was carried', which is incorrect here.

To carry means to transport, conduct, or transmit. Given the context of 'an emotional speech', it doesn't fit here.

Meanings of the given phrasal verbs, viz., verb+ preposition, which modifies the meaning of the verb.:

Carried away- to arouse to a high and often excessive degree of emotion or enthusiasm.

Carried off- Handle successfully, win.

Carried towards is not a correct phrasal verb.

Out of the above, only 'carried away' is appropriate here, given the context of 'emotional speech'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: The audience got carried away by the emotional speech.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Hasn't.

• The sentence uses the simple past tense question tag 'Didn't', which is incorrect here.
• The sentence uses the adverb 'yet', which means up until the present or a specified or implied time; by now or then.
• This means, the usage of 'yet' means there is an implication of an action beginning in recent past, which is continuing to the present.
• So, present perfect tense becomes appropriate here.
• The only correct question tag here, then, becomes the present perfect 'Hasn't'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: Hasn't Aarav come to school yet?

The correct answer is option 4, i.e., No improvement.

• The sentence uses the singular noun 'a report' and the appropriate present perfect form 'has already been'.
• So, the sentence is grammatically correct and requires no correction.

The correct answer is option 4, i.e., No improvement.

• The sentence uses the present participle 'going to leave', which is correct and requires no correction.
• Confusion point: Option 3, viz, 'going to be leaving' may seem correct; but it does not improve the sentence grammatically.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., had been playing.

Key Points

• The sentence uses the present perfect continuous form 'has been playing', which is incorrect.
• The second verb of the sentence, i.e., 'came' shows simple past tense.
• This means that the second action of the parents coming home had already happened in the past.
• So, the first action of Sheela playing must have happened even before that, in further past.
• This means only past perfect continuous tense is appropriate here. Past perfect continuous form of the verb is 'Had been playing'.

Thus, the rectified sentence is: Sheela had been playing for two hours when her parents came home.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Agree.

To concur means to be of the same opinion; agree.

Meanings of the given words:

Consider- think carefully about (something), typically before making a decision.

Agree- have the same opinion about something; concur.

Conceal- not allow to be seen; hide.

Disagree- have or express a different opinion.

Out of these, only Agree shows the closest meaning to Concur.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Dilemma.

Quandary means a difficult situation; a practical dilemma.

Meanings of the given words:

Quality- a distinctive attribute or characteristic possessed by someone or something.

Dilemma- a difficult situation or problem.

Chaos- complete disorder and confusion.

Quantity- the amount or number of a material or abstract thing not usually estimated by spatial measurement.

Out of these, only Dilemma shows the same meaning as Quandary.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Range.

Ambit means the scope, extent, or bounds of something.

Aura- the distinctive atmosphere or quality that seems to surround and be generated by a person, thing, or place.

Range- vary or extend between specified limits.

Ambience- the character and atmosphere of a place.

Lunette- an arched aperture or window, especially one in a domed ceiling.

Out of these, only Range shows the closest meaning to Ambit.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Poor.

Penurious means extremely poor; poverty-stricken.

Meanings of the given words:

Lethal- sufficient to cause death.

Poor- lacking sufficient money to live at a standard considered comfortable or normal in a society.

Peevish- having or showing an irritable disposition.

Prosaic- having or using the style or diction of prose as opposed to poetry; lacking imagination or originality.

Out of these, only Poor shows the closest meaning to Penurious.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., Respect.

Revere means feel deep respect or admiration for (something).

Meanings of the given words:

Respect- a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements.

Reverse- make (something) the opposite of what it was.

Recall- bring (a fact, event, or situation) back into one's mind; remember.

Remind- cause (someone) to remember someone or something.

Out of these, only Respect shows the closest meaning to Revere.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Abandon.

To forsake means to abandon or leave.

Meanings of the given words: 

Alarm- make (someone) feel frightened, disturbed, or in danger.

Abandon- give up completely (a practice or a course of action).

Forgive- no longer feel angry about or wish to punish (an offence, flaw, or mistake).

Forage- search widely for food or provisions.

Out of these, only Abandon shows the closest meaning to Forsake.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., continuous.

Incessant means continuing without pause or interruption.

Meanings of the given words:

Interesting- arousing curiosity or interest; holding or catching the attention.

Continuous- forming an unbroken whole; without interruption.

Increasing- becoming greater in size, amount, or degree; growing.

Calm- not showing or feeling nervousness, anger, or other strong emotions.

Out of these, only Continuous shows the closest meaning to Incessant.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., skilled.

Dexterous means showing or having skill, especially with the hands.

Meanings of the given words:

Skilled- based on or proceeding from the ability to do something well.

Hardworking- tending to work with energy and commitment; diligent.

Difficult- needing much effort or skill to accomplish, deal with, or understand.

Patient- able to accept or tolerate delays, problems, or suffering without becoming annoyed or anxious.

Out of these, only Skilled shows the closest meaning to Dexterous.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e. Harmless

Explanation

Let’s look at the meanings of the given word and the option:

• Benign: Gentle and kind; not harmful in effect;friendly, warm-hearted, amiable
• Harmless: Not able or likely to cause harm;safe, gentle, non-dangerous

Here we find that both Benign and Harmless express the similar meaning

Therefore both the words are Synonyms, and thus Option 1 Harmless is the correct answer

Let's look at the meaning of other words:

• Harmful: causing or likely to cause harm.
• Benumb: deprive of physical or emotional feeling.
• Brief: of short duration; not lasting for long.

The correct answer is option 3, i.e. Joy

Explanation 

Let’s look at the meanings of the given word and the option:

• Felicity: intense happiness; bliss, joy,delight
• Joy: a feeling of great pleasure and happiness; ecstasy,euphoria,felicity

​Here we find that both Felicity and Joy express the similar meaning

Therefore both the words are Synonyms, and thus Option 3- Joy is the correct answer

Additional Information

Let's look at the meaning of other words:

• Fidelity: faithfulness to a person, cause, or belief, demonstrated by continuing loyalty and support.
• Faith: complete trust or confidence in someone or something.
• Trust: firm belief in the reliability, truth, or ability of someone or something.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Sane.

Daft means silly; foolish. e.g. a daft man etc.

So, its opposite must mean someone who is clever or in perfect mental health.

Meanings of the given words:

Sanity- reasonable and rational behaviour.

Sane- (of a person) of sound mind; not mad or mentally ill.

Silly- having or showing a lack of common sense or judgement; absurd and foolish.

Stationary- not moving or not intended to be moved.

Out of these, only Sane shows the closest antonym to Daft.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., End.

To commence means to begin or start something. e.g. Commencing operations etc.

So, its opposite must mean to stop or end something.

Meanings of the given words:

Ensure- to make certain of something.

End- to stop something.

Envision- imagine as a future possibility; visualize.

Endow- provide with a quality, ability, or asset.

Out of these, only End shows the closest antonym to Commence.

The correct answer is option 3, i.e., External.

Innate means inborn; natural. e.g. an innate talent etc.

So, its opposite must mean something that is taken from outside.

Meanings of the given words:

Extra- added to an existing or usual amount or number.

Inborn- existing from birth.

External- coming or derived from a source outside the subject affected.

Exarchate- any territorial jurisdiction whose ruler is described as an exarch, or a governor.

Out of these, only External gives the closest antonym to Innate.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e. Encourage 

Explanation 

Let’s look at the meanings of the given word and the option:

• Daunt: To make (someone) feel intimidated or apprehensive. e.g. A daunting task etc;Intimidate,dishearten,discourage. (हतोत्साहित करना)
• Encourage: Give support, confidence, or hope to (someone); Inspire, motivate, hearten. (प्रोत्साहित करना)

​Here we find that both Daunt and Encourage express the opposite meaning

Therefore both the words are Antonyms, and thus Option 1 Encourage is the correct answer

Let's look at the meaning of other words:

• Dull: lacking interest or excitement. (उबाऊ)
• Effulgent: shining brightly; radiant. (प्रकाशमान)
• Encompass: surround and have or hold within. (शामिल करना)

The correct answer is option 4, i.e., Compliant.

Obstinate means stubbornly refusing to change one's opinion or chosen course of action. e.g. an obstinate person etc.

So, its opposite must mean someone that agrees easily.

Meanings of the given options:

Obsolete- no longer produced or used; out of date.

Complicated- consisting of many interconnecting parts or elements; intricate.

Compact- closely and neatly packed together; dense.

Compliant- disposed to agree with others or obey rules, especially to an excessive degree.

Out of these, only Compliant gives the closest antonym to Obstinate.

The correct answer is option 1 i.e. Verbose 

Explanation 

Let’s look at the meanings of the given word and the option:

• Terse: sparing in the use of words; abrupt. e.g. a terse reply etc; abrupt, clipped, short, brief
• Verbose: using or expressed in more words than are needed; wordy, loquacious, talkative

​Here we find that both Terse and Verbose express the opposite meaning

Therefore both the words are Antonyms, and thus Option 1 Verbose is the correct answer

Let's look at the meaning of other words:

• Tense: unable to relax because of nervousness, anxiety, or stimulation.
• Hearse: a vehicle for conveying the coffin at a funeral.
• Verve-: vigour and spirit or enthusiasm.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e. Hinder 

Explanation 

Let’s look at the meanings of the given word and the option:

• Abet : to encourage or assist (someone) to do something wrong, in particular to commit a crime. e.g. aiding and abetting a murder etc;assist,help,support
• Hinder- make it difficult for (someone) to do something or for (something) to happen; obstruct, inhibit, hamper

​Here we find that both Abet and Hinder express the opposite meaning

Therefore both the words are Antonyms, and thus Option 2 Hinder is the correct answer

Let's look at the meaning of other words:

• Ferment: incite or stir up (trouble or disorder); (of a substance) undergo fermentation.
• Hindsight: understanding of a situation or event only after it has happened or developed.
• Foment: instigate or stir up (an undesirable or violent sentiment or course of action).

The correct answer is option 2, i.e. Join 

Explanation 

Let’s look at the meanings of the given word and the option:

• sever: to divide by cutting or slicing, especially suddenly and forcibly. e.g. a severed head etc; detach,
• Join- link; connect; attach, connect, unite

​Here we find that both sever and Join express the opposite meaning

Therefore both the words are Antonyms, and thus Option 2 Join is the correct answer

Let's look at the meaning of other words:

• Resolve:settle or find a solution to (a problem or contentious matter).
• Union: a state of harmony or agreement.
• Part: (of two things) move away from each other.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Influx.

Exodus means a mass departure of something, typically of people. e.g. an exodus of film enthusiasts etc.

So, its opposite must mean a large inflow or entry of something.

Meanings of the given words:

Outflow- a large amount of money, liquid, or people that moves or is transferred out of a place.

Influx- an arrival or entry of large numbers of people or things.

Infest- (of insects or animals) be present (in a place or site) in large numbers, typically so as to cause damage or disease.

Outpour- To flow out rapidly; pour out.

Out of these, only Influx shows the opposite meaning to Exodus.

The correct answer is option 2 i.e. Effective 

Explanation 

Let’s look at the meanings of the given word and the option:

• Futile : Incapable of producing any useful result; pointless. e.g. A futile scheme; fruitless, vain, useless
• Effective- successful in producing a desired or intended result; successful, productive

​Here we find that both Futile and Effective express the opposite meanings.

Therefore both the words are Antonyms, and thus Option 2 Effective is the correct answer.

Additional Information

Let's look at the meaning of other words:

• Vain: producing no result; useless
• Fruitless - failing to achieve the desired results; unproductive or useless.
• Success: the accomplishment of an aim or purpose.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., Till.

The sentence uses the blank after the verb, indicating that the blank must contain a preposition.

Let's look at how the given prepositions are used:

Till- up to (the point in time or the event mentioned). e.g. I will not eat till evening.

Since- in the intervening period between (the time mentioned) and the present. e.g. I have not eaten since morning.

For- an amount of time or distance. e.g. I have not eaten anything for two days.

About- on the subject of; concerning. e.g. I have not thought about food.

Here, the time mentioned is in the future, i.e., 'late afternoon', up to which point the action of working is happening.

So, the correct preposition here would be 'till', which shows the action projected in future time.

Thus, the complete sentence is: I intend to work till late afternoon.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., Far.

The sentence uses the blank before the adverb 'too', suggesting that it must contain an adverb also.

Let's look at the meanings of the given options:

Far- used to indicate a greater degree of something. e.g. He was far better at running than her.

Few- used to indicate a smaller number of something. e.g. There were few pencils left.

Some- used to express an unspecified amount or number of something. e.g. Some of the people were rich.

Much- used to show a large undivided amount of something. e.g. I did not think much of the man.

Here, the adjective is 'too overdressed', in which case, the only appropriate word is the adverb 'far'.

Confusion point: 'Much' may seem correct; but it is not. 'Much' shows a general larger amount of something; while 'far' shows a comparative greater degree of something, which is required here. 

Thus, the complete sentence is: Neha was far too overdressed for a casual party.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., For.

• The sentence uses the blank before the adjective 'certain', suggesting that the blank must contain an article/ a preposition.
• The only correct preposition with 'certain' here is 'for', as it makes the phrase 'for certain'.
• For certain- free from doubt or reservation; confident; sure.
• e.g. I don't know his qualifications for certain; but I will find out.
• None of the other options can make a meaningful phrase with 'certain'.

Thus, the complete sentence is: I know for certain that Neelam has failed the test.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Among.

The sentence uses the blank after the noun 'fights', suggesting that the blank must contain a preposition.

Let's look at how the given prepositions are used:

Between- indicating a connection or relationship involving two parties. e.g. I stand between him and her.

Among- indicating a division, choice, or differentiation involving three or more participants. e.g. I stand among my friends.

Over- extending across a space/time. e.g. I stand over their graves.

For- having the purpose of. e.g. I stand for my own rights.

Out of these, only 'among' is correct here, given the context of 'group of six tourists'.

Confusion point: 'Between' may seem correct; but it is not. 'Between' is generally used for a differentiation with two parties; while 'among' is used for differentiation between three or more things.

Thus, the complete sentence is: Conflicting opinions led to several fights among the group of six tourists.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., Across.

The sentence uses the blank between two nouns, suggesting that the blank must contain a preposition.

Let's look at how the given prepositions are used:

Across- from one side to the other of (a place, area, etc.). e.g. We walked across the whole field.

Between- in the interval separating (two points or things). e.g. We walked between the lines.

Among- being a member or members of (a larger set). e.g. She was standing among her friends.

Over- extending across a specific area. e.g. A cloth was stretched over the canvas.

Given the context of 'reaching the other side of the lake', only 'across' is appropriate here.

Thus, the complete sentence is: We rowed the boat across the lake to reach the other side.

The correct answer is Option 1.

Key Points

• The primary meaning here refers to a screenplay being made based on a novel, which is best described by "adapted".
• "Adapted" means modified from one form to another, particularly when a novel is turned into a screenplay.
• Other options such as "adopted", "adept", and "attained" do not fit the context.
• Therefore, the sentence should read "The screenplay of the movie has been adapted from a novel."

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 1.

Additional Information

• Adapted: means modified or changed to suit a new purpose (e.g., a book into a movie).
• Adopted: means taken up or started to use (e.g., a new policy).
• Adept: means very skilled or proficient.
• Attained: means achieved or reached (e.g., a goal).

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., Of.

• The sentence uses the blank after the verb 'approve', which suggests that the blank must contain a supplementary preposition.
• To approve means to take a favorable view of someone or something.
• The only preposition that can be appropriate with 'approve' is 'of'.
• Some verbs need a supplementary preposition when used with an object.
• e.g. I wake up early. My mother approves. vs My mother approves of my habits. Here, using an object necessitates a preposition.
• Whenever there is an object, the verb 'To approve' becomes 'To approve of (the object)'.

Thus, the complete sentence is: The teacher did not approve of the assignment plan.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Was.

• The sentence uses the blank after the noun 'clerks' and before the verb 'arrested', suggesting that the blank must contain a helping verb, such as a form of 'To be'.
• Here, the subject is the singular 'Manager' for the verb 'arrested'.
• The phrase 'along with the clerks', is an adverb phrase, giving more information about the verb 'arrested'.
• Subject verb agreement rule: A singular noun takes a singular verb; while a plural noun needs a plural verb. e.g. He is arrested; They are arrested.
• Since the sentence gives more emphasis on the singular subject 'Manager'; the correct verb here must be the singular verb 'Was arrested'.
• Confusion Point: Note that the adverb phrase mentioning 'clerks' is supplementary, and hence the verb 'Were arrested' cannot be correct.

Thus, the complete sentence is: After the fraud was discovered, the manager along with the clerks was arrested.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Off.

Key Points:- 

• The sentence uses the blank after the verb 'Called'. This means that the blank must contain a preposition, making a phrasal verb.
• Phrasal verbs are formed by using a verb+ preposition. e.g. Carry on, Get out etc.
• Here, only the preposition 'off' after 'called' can make a meaningful sentence, making the phrasal verb 'Called Off'.
• To call off- To draw away, divert or cancel something.
• None of the other options can make a meaningful phrasal verb in this context.

Thus, the complete sentence is: The workers have called off the strike.

Hinglish

• वाक्य 'called' क्रिया के बाद रिक्त स्थान का उपयोग करता है। इसका मतलब यह है कि रिक्त स्थान में एक पूर्वसर्ग होना चाहिए, जिससे एक वाक्यांश क्रिया बने।
• क्रिया (verb) + पूर्वसर्ग (preposition) का उपयोग करके वाक्यांश क्रिया का निर्माण किया जाता है। जैसे Carry on, Get out आदि।
• यहाँ, 'called' के बाद 'off' पूर्वसर्ग ही एक अर्थपूर्ण वाक्य बना सकता है, जिससे वाक्यांश क्रिया 'called off' बन जाती है।
• कॉल ऑफ करना- किसी चीज को दूर करना, डायवर्ट करना या रद्द करना।
• अन्य विकल्पों में से कोई भी इस संदर्भ में सार्थक वाक्यांश क्रिया नहीं बना सकता है।

इस प्रकार, पूरा वाक्य है: The workers have called off the strike.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., Over.

• The sentence uses the blank after the verb 'to hand', which means the blank must contain a preposition, making a phrasal verb.
• Phrasal verbs are formed by using a verb + prepositions. e.g. Get out, Run into etc.
• Here, the main verb is 'To hand'. Out of all the options, only 'over' and 'back' can make correct phrasal verbs.
• To Hand over- an act of giving something to someone.
• To hand back- an act of returning something to a person from whom that something was taken.
• 'To hand down' or 'To hand into' do not make meaningful phrasal verbs.
• Here, the sentence does not mention any specific 'returning' of the keys; it only talks of general giving of the keys by her.
• So, in this case, the general phrasal verb 'To hand over' is more appropriate.

Thus, the complete sentence is: When will she hand over the keys to the apartment?

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Than.

The blank separates two nouns, which means the blank should contain a preposition/ conjunction.

The context suggests a comparison made between the two nouns, viz, 'tea' and 'coffee'.

Let's look at the meanings of the given prepositions:

Then- at a certain time; after a certain time in question. e.g. I was living in Paris then. Then, I went to Cairo.

Than- used in expressions introducing an exception, comparison or contrast. e.g. He is taller than his friend.

Over- extending directly upwards from. e.g. There are clouds over the hill.

Above- in extended space over and not touching. e.g. His flat was above the grocery store.

Since the sentence talks about a comparison between tea and coffee, the only correct preposition here is the comparative 'than'.

Thus, the complete sentence is: I like tea better than coffee.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Into.

The context of the sentence suggests that She must have tossed the coin 'inside' the wishing well.

Let's look at how the given prepositions are used:

In- used when something is surrounded by something else. e.g. There is a hole in the wall.

Into- used when something becomes enclosed by something else. e.g. I came into the room.

Over- used when something extends directly upwards from something else. I saw smoke over the building.

From- used to indicate the starting point of something. e.g. I am from Berlin.

Here, since the coin went 'inside' the well, only the preposition 'into' is appropriate.

Note: Preposition 'in' indicates a general surrounding of one object by another; while 'into' indicates that one object is directly inside another.

Thus, the complete sentence is: She tossed the coin into the wishing well.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., Went.

Key Points 

• The sentence uses the blank after the plural noun 'We'. This suggests that the blank should contain the main verb.
• The sentence uses the time-indicative adverb clause 'Last night'.
• This means that the action of 'going' to the circus has already happened last night, i.e., in the past.
• So, the appropriate tense here would be past tense- viz, simple past tense 'went' or past perfect 'had gone'.
• The options only show the simple past tense verb 'Went' in option 1.

Thus, the complete sentence is: We went to the circus with our families last night.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., To.

• The sentence uses the blank after the verb 'come', which suggests that the blank must contain a preposition, which makes a phrasal verb, such as 'give away' etc.
• Here, the word 'terms' is also used after the blank, which means the preposition connects it with the previous verb 'come'.
• The only appropriate preposition here is 'To', as it meaningfully connects the two words and forms the phrase 'To come to term with'.
• To come to terms with something- to gradually accept a situation; to tolerate something unpleasant etc.
• None of the other prepositions can join the two words together meaningfully.

Thus, the complete sentence is: It is hard to come to terms with such a loss.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., Under.

Let's look at the way the given prepositions are used:

Under- when a specific object is at a lower level than another specific object. e.g. There is a pen under the desk.

Below- when one specific object is at a lower level than another indivisible object. e.g. He jumped from the window into the water below.

In- when something ends up within or surrounded by something else. e.g. The water is in the glass.

Between- when something is at, into, or across the space separating (two objects or regions). e.g. India is between Pakistan and China.

• Here, the sentence talks about two specific objects, viz, 'a cat' and 'the table'.
• So, in this case, the correct preposition is 'under'.
• Note: 'Below' is a qualitative preposition, i.e., it shows a qualitative difference between two things while 'Under' shows an actual physical difference between two objects.

Thus, the complete sentence is: There is a cat under the table.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., arrives.

• The sentence uses the blank after the noun, which suggests that the blank must contain the main verb.
• The sentence talks about an event that happens 'daily', i.e., on a regular basis.
• In case of events occurring on a regular basis, we use the simple present tense of the verb.
• So, here, for the singular noun 'train', the correct simple present tense verb is 'arrives'.

Thus, the complete sentence is: The train arrives at the station at 10:00 a.m. daily.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Begin by.

• The sentence uses the blank after the simple future tense verb 'will', which means the blank must contain the main verb of the sentence.
• As the verb 'will' already indicates simple future tense, the main verb must be in its normal or simple present tense form.
• This means 'will begin' is the correct form of the verb.

Now, let's look at prepositions given after 'will begin' in the options:

Begin on- 'On' requires at least a specific day, e.g. It will begin on Monday.

Begin by- 'By' shows a general timeline. e.g. It will begin by next month.

Begin at- 'At' requires a more specific timeline, e.g. It will begin at 7 o' clock.

• Here, the timeline given is the rough estimate, viz, 'next week'. In such cases, the general time-indicative 'by' is more appropriate.

Thus, the complete sentence is: The student try-outs for the game will begin by next week.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., a few.

Key Points

• The sentence uses the blank before the noun 'students', which means that the blank should contain an article/ adjective.
• Few- a small number of something divisible, like cherries, men, students etc.
• Little- a small quantity of something indivisible, like water, courage, study etc.
• Here, the noun used is students, in which case, 'a few' is the correct adjective.
• This means, the correct usage is 'a few' students or 'a small number of' students.
  

Thus, the complete sentence is: Only a few students had turned up for the art show.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., flown.

• The sentence uses the auxiliary verb 'Had' before the blank, which means the blank must contain the main verb of the sentence.
• The auxiliary verb 'had' suggests past perfect tense. So, the associated verb must also be in its past participle form.
• The past participle form of the verb 'To fly' is 'Flown'. (Fly, Flew, Flown).

Thus, the complete sentence is: The birds had flown away from the branch.

The correct answer is option 4, i.e., The.

• The sentence uses the blank before the adjective 'best', so the blank must contain an article (a/an/the).
• Here, the superlative degree of adjective 'Best' means 'that specific one thing' which is better than the rest.
• The definite article 'The' is used before singular and plural nouns when the noun is specific or particular. e.g. The water, The street I live on etc.
• So, the correct article to be used here is 'The'.

Thus, the complete sentence is: The best is yet to come.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., To admit that you were wrong.

Key Points

• To eat humble pie means to admit that one is wrong, usually when doing so triggers great embarrassment or shame.
• e.g. Now that the scheme has failed, the minister has to eat humble pie in the press conference.
• The phrase comes from co-relating the meaning of 'humble', which means of low self esteem; with the old 'umble pie' (umble means offal or internal organs of animals, which are thought to have lesser value than meat).
• Confusion point: Option 3, viz., Be humble can seem correct; but the phrase 'To eat humble pie' also means to apologize in addition to being humble.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., To annoy someone.

• To drive (someone) up the wall means to annoy or frustrate someone to the point of exasperation.
• e.g. Throughout the ride to the store, Sam continued to drive Dean up the wall.
• The phrase is derived from someone trying desperately to escape something annoying by desperate measures such as climbing up the wall.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., An exact copy.

Key Points

• A spitting image of something is the exact double of (another person or thing).
• e.g. Barbara is the spitting image of her mother; when it comes to cleaning.

​

Hint

• This idiom comes from the earlier use of the noun 'spit' for “likeness”.

• Note that 'Splitting image', with the verb 'to split', is also used to show the same meaning; but, it is, however, incorrect.

The correct answer is "Go to sleep."

Key Points

• To hit the hay means to go to bed.
• e.g. Johnny decided it was time to hit the hay.
• The phrase comes from the old bed mattresses, which used to be filled with hay, or dried grass.
• 'To hit the haystack' is another phrase that has the same meaning.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., Old.

• Long in the tooth means to be rather old.
• e.g. The man, long in the tooth, was sitting in the parlour.
• The phrase came from the practice of examining the length of horses’ teeth when estimating their ages; as an old horse has long, rectangular incisors.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., A personal end to serve.

Key Points 

• 'To have an axe to grind' means to have a private reason or agenda for doing or being involved in something. ( )
• e.g. He knew she had an axe to grind when she joined the band.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Disreputable member of a group.

• A black sheep means a member of a family or group who is regarded as a disgrace to it.
• e.g. Adam was always considered the black sheep of the family.
• The term comes from presence of a black sheep among the white ones, which are more common. The wool from a black sheep was supposed to be less valuable.

The correct answer is To suspect foul play.

Key Points

• To smell a rat means to be suspicious of a situation.
• e.g. Ever since he started working here, John thought he smelled a rat.
• The phrase comes from the old days, where rats were supposed to carry diseases such as plague etc. So, when dogs started smelling around for them, a suspicious situation was expected.
• Alternately, 'a rat' also means a spy or informer. So, 'to smell a rat' means to be suspicious of some form of treachery.

The correct answer is option 3, i.e., perplexed.

• To be at wit's end means to be completely puzzled and perplexed, not knowing what to do.
• e.g. I am at my wit's end regarding this issue.
• The word 'wit' means cleverness or mental faculties. To be at wit's end, then, means to be at the end of one's mental capability to understand/deal with something.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., To talk nonsense.

• To talk through one's hat means to talk foolishly, wildly, or ignorantly; especially on a subject that one professes to be knowledgeable about but in fact is ignorant of.
• e.g. He was talking through his hat when he said he could finish the race.

The correct answer is Ignominy.

Key Points

• ​Ignominy: public embarrassment (सार्वजनिक लज्जा; अपमान; अपयश)
• Example: The incumbent party experienced the ignominy of total defeat in the last election.
• Thus, option 2 is the correct answer.
• Meaning of other words in the options:
• Panoply means a wide range of collection of different things (विभिन्न चीजों के संग्रह की एक विस्तृत श्रृंखला)
• Example: There is a whole panoply of remedies and drugs available to the modern doctor.
• Desultory: without a clear plan or purpose and showing little effort or interest. (एक स्पष्ट योजना या उद्देश्य के बिना और थोड़ा प्रयास या रुचि दिखाने के बिना।)  
• ​Example: She made a desultory attempt at conversation.
• ​Reparation: payment for harm or damage (हानिपूर्ति)
• ​Example: The company had to make reparation to those who suffered ill health as a result of chemical pollution.

The correct answer is- Repudiate.

Key Points

• Repudiate means to refuse to accept something or someone as true, good, or reasonable.
• Example:
• He repudiated the allegation that he had tried to deceive them.
• Thus, option 1 is the correct answer.
• Meaning of other words in the options:
• ​Abject : the state of being extremely unhappy, poor, unsuccessful, etc.
• Example: This policy has turned out to be an abject failure.
• Adjunct : something added or connected to a larger or more important thing 
• ​Example: I hoped I would find the computer course a useful adjunct to my other studies.
• ​Recondite: not known about by many people and difficult to understand 
• ​Example: We had to work from material that was both complex and recondite.

The correct answer is- Facade

Key Points

• Facade: a false appearance that makes someone or something seem more pleasant or better than they really are
• Example: He kept his hostility hidden behind a friendly facade.
• Thus, option 2 is the correct answer.
• Meaning of other words in the options:
• Impasse means a situation in which progress is impossible, especially because the people involved cannot agree 
• Example: The dispute had reached an impasse, as neither side would compromise.
• Countenance: the appearance or expression of someone's face  
• ​Example: He was of noble countenance.
• Gravitas: seriousness and importance of manner, causing feelings of respect and trust in others 
• ​Example: He's an effective enough politician but somehow he lacks the statesmanlike gravitas of a world leader.

The correct answer is- Obscure

Key Points

• Obscure: not known to many people 
• Example: an obscure 18th-century painter
• Thus, option 2 is the correct answer.
• Meaning of other words in the options:
• Obsolete: not in use anymore, having been replaced by something newer and better or more fashionable
• Example: Gas lamps became obsolete when electric lighting was invented.
• ​Obstinate: unreasonably determined, especially to act in a particular way and not to change at all, despite what anyone else says.  
• ​Example: He can be very obstinate at times.
• Obdurate: used to describe a person who refuses to change their mind, or someone or something that is difficult to deal with or change. 
• ​Example: Union leaders remain obdurate that working conditions and pay improve.

The correct answer is option 1, i.e., Besotted.

Key Points

Infatuated means possessed with an intense but short-lived passion or admiration.

Now, let's look at the meanings of the given options:

Besotted- strongly infatuated.

Virulent- (of a disease or poison) extremely severe or harmful in its effects.

Zealot- a person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of their religious, political, or other ideals.

Perturbed- feeling anxiety or concern; unsettled.

Out of theses, only Besotted shows the same meaning as the underlined definition.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Emaciated.

Meanings of the given options:

Emancipated- free from legal, social, or political restrictions; liberated.

Emaciated- abnormally thin or weak, especially because of illness or a lack of food.

Emanated- originate from; be produced by.

Amateur- a person who is incompetent or inept at a particular activity.

Out of these, only Emaciated shows the same meaning as the underlined definition.

The correct answer is option 3, i.e., Coalesce.

Meanings of the given options:

Capsize- (of a boat) be overturned in the water.

Concoct- create or devise (a story or plan).

Coalesce- come together to form one mass or whole.

Concur- be of the same opinion; agree.

Out of these, only Coalesce shows the same meaning as the underlined definition.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Peevish.

Meanings of the given options:

Prudent- acting with or showing care and thought for the future.

Peevish- having or showing an irritable disposition.

Pestering- troubling or annoying (someone) with frequent or persistent requests or interruptions.

Palpable- (of a feeling or atmosphere) so intense as to seem almost tangible.

Out of these, only Peevish shows the same meaning as the underlined definition.

The correct answer is option 2, i.e., Haven.

Let's look at the meanings of the given options:

Coup- a sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government.

Haven- a place where you are protected from danger, trouble, etc. 

Heaven- a place regarded in various religions as the home of God and angels, in the sky

Abeyance- a state of temporary disuse or suspension.

Out of these, only Haven shows the same meaning as the underlined definition.