English Comprehension PYQs

The correct answer is 'Option 3'.

 

Key Points

• The word "cuneiform" primarily refers to:

1. An ancient system of writing, used in Mesopotamia and Persia, distinguished by its wedge-shaped marks, typically impressed on clay tablets.
2. Having a wedge shape.

• Let's analyze each sentence:
• S1: The cuneiform pattern in the arch of the temples give them a grand appearance.
• This sentence uses "cuneiform" to describe a pattern or design as being wedge-shaped. This is a correct application of the word's meaning related to shape.
• S2: Cuneiform literally means wedge-shaped, and is an ancient form of writing on clay.
• This sentence accurately defines "cuneiform" by its literal meaning ("wedge-shaped") and correctly identifies its historical context as an ancient writing system on clay. This usage is correct.
• S3: Cuneiform-shaped geographical features across the desert bear the mark of vigorous wind erosion.
• "Cuneiform-shaped" means having a wedge-like form. It is plausible for geographical features, especially those shaped by natural processes like wind erosion, to exhibit such shapes. This usage is also correct in describing a form.

Therefore, the word "cuneiform" has been used correctly in 3 sentences.

The correct answer is 'Option 2'.

 

Key Points

• The word "chutzpah" (noun) refers to extreme self-confidence or audacity, often with impudence or insolence. It conveys a sense of fearless nerve, boldness, and sometimes even arrogance.
• Let's analyze each sentence:
• S1: He displayed real chutzpah while facing the belligerent opposition all by himself.
• Correct. Facing a "belligerent opposition all by himself" requires a significant amount of boldness, nerve, and extreme self-confidence, which aligns perfectly with the meaning of "chutzpah."
• S2: The lawyer displayed rare chutzpah in presenting tectonic evidence in court that changed the track of the case entirely.
• Correct. Presenting "tectonic evidence" (meaning evidence of great significance or impact) in a way that "changed the track of the case entirely" would demand audacity, strong conviction, and a bold approach from a lawyer. This usage is consistent with the meaning of "chutzpah."
• S3: He ran with chutzpah to secure first prize at the award ceremony.
• Incorrect. "Chutzpah" describes a quality of nerve or audacious behavior, typically in a social, confrontational, or strategic context. It is not typically used to describe the manner or physical effort of running. One might run with determination, speed, or urgency, but not "with chutzpah."

Therefore, the word "chutzpah" has been used correctly in 2 sentences.

The correct answer is 'Option 1'.

 

Key Points

• The word "quotidian" (adjective) means:

1. Occurring daily; daily.
2. Ordinary or commonplace, especially as resulting from daily routine.

• Let's analyze each sentence:
• S1: It was quotidian on account of the courtiers to take great pains to maintain the dignity of the ailing monarch.
• Incorrect. The phrasing "It was quotidian on account of..." is grammatically awkward and semantically unusual. "Quotidian" describes something that is daily or commonplace, not the reason for an action ("on account of"). For example, "It was a quotidian task for the courtiers..." would be correct, but the given structure does not fit.
• S2: The rules of conduct of the highest judiciary are quotidian principles on which rest the very foundations of justice and democracy.
• Incorrect. Calling fundamental or foundational principles "quotidian" (ordinary or commonplace) diminishes their significant and esteemed nature. Principles that form the "very foundations of justice and democracy" are typically considered profound and vital, not everyday or mundane.
• S3: His quotidian life is, contrary to what people think, rather unexciting.
• Correct. Here, "quotidian life" is used appropriately to mean his daily routine or ordinary life. The description of it being "unexciting" further aligns with the common implication of "quotidian" as being mundane or routine.

Therefore, the word "quotidian" has been used correctly in 1 sentence.

The correct answer is 'Option 1'.

 

Key Points

• The word "moribund" (adjective) means:

1. (Of a person) at the point of death.
2. (Of a thing) in terminal decline; lacking vitality or vigor; on the verge of extinction or termination.

• Let's analyze each sentence:
• S1: The moribund state of the decaying colony depressed everyone.
• Correct. Here, "moribund state" is used to describe a "decaying colony," which perfectly aligns with the meaning of being "in terminal decline" or "lacking vitality." A decaying entity would naturally be in a moribund state.
• S2: The strength of the collective remained moribund despite attempts at scuttling unity.
• Incorrect. "Scuttling unity" means actively undermining or destroying unity, which would typically lead to or exacerbate a decline in strength. If the strength "remained moribund despite attempts at scuttling unity," it suggests that these attempts did not affect its already dying state, or that its decline was independent of them, which is a convoluted and awkward usage. Usually, "despite" would be followed by an attempt to improve something, or a condition that should have led to a different outcome.
• S3: Driven by a common purpose, the moribund group decided it would prevail notwithstanding of the adverseness of the situation.
• Incorrect. This sentence presents a contradiction. A "moribund group" is one that is dying or lacking vitality. Such a group is not typically "driven by a common purpose" or capable of deciding it "would prevail" against adversity. The qualities of being driven and determined to prevail are antithetical to a moribund state. Additionally, "notwithstanding of" is grammatically incorrect; it should be "notwithstanding" or "in spite of."

Therefore, the word "moribund" has been used correctly in 1 sentence.

The correct answer is 'Option 3'.

 

Key Points

• The word "fecundity" (noun) and its adjective form "fecund" refer to:

1. The ability to produce an abundance of offspring or new growth; fertility.
2. Intellectual productivity or creativity.

• Let's analyze each sentence:
• S1: The Gangetic plains are blessed with historically-significant fecundity on account of its rich soil.
• Correct. Here, "fecundity" refers to the fertility or productivity of the land, specifically the Gangetic plains, which are known for their rich soil and agricultural output. This usage is accurate.
• S2: The couple sought blessings at the temple that was believed to possess the power to transform childlessness into fecundity.
• Correct. In this context, "fecundity" is used to mean the ability to produce children or offspring (fertility). This is a direct and correct application of the word's meaning.
• S3: The grass across the prairies made the landscape appear particularly fecund, with cattle grazing by the thousands.
• Correct. "Fecund" (the adjective) is used here to describe the landscape as being highly fertile and productive, capable of supporting abundant growth, as evidenced by "cattle grazing by the thousands." This usage is correct.

Therefore, the word "fecundity" (or its derivative) has been used correctly in 3 sentences.

The correct answer is 'Later'.

 

Key Points

• The sentence describes a historical event that reached completion by a specific year. The most suitable discourse marker to introduce a chronological development is one that indicates a point in time.
• Let's analyze the options:
• Besides: This is used to add additional information or an extra point, similar to "in addition to." It does not fit the chronological context of the sentence.
• However: This is a contrastive marker, used to introduce a statement that contrasts with something previously mentioned or implied. There is no contrasting idea presented here.
• Later: This adverb means "at a subsequent time" or "afterward." It is a chronological marker that perfectly fits the context of describing when a historical process was completed.
• Instead: This is used to indicate a substitution or alternative. It does not fit the context of describing the completion of a process.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 3.

 

Complete Sentence: "Later, the process by which the State took over from the Church the registration of births, death, and marriages was complete by 1792 in Europe."

 

Additional Information

• Discourse markers are words or phrases (e.g., "however," "so," "well," "anyway," "later") that do not affect the truth value of an utterance but function to organize discourse and indicate the speaker's attitude or relation to the message. In this case, "Later" functions as a temporal discourse marker.

The correct answer is 'Unfortunately'.

 

Key Points

• The sentence "________, the matter cannot be settled that easily" requires a discourse marker that expresses the speaker's attitude or sentiment regarding the difficulty of the situation.
• Let's analyze the options:
• Unevenly: This is an adverb of manner, describing how something is done. It does not fit as an introductory discourse marker for a general statement about the nature of a problem.
• Unfortunately: This is an adverb used as a discourse marker to express regret, disappointment, or a negative outcome. It perfectly conveys the sentiment that the difficulty in settling the matter is regrettable or undesirable.
• Unfortunate: This is an adjective. It cannot stand alone as an introductory discourse marker in this sentence structure. One would say "It is unfortunate that..." or "The situation is unfortunate."
• Whatever: This can express indifference, concession, or introduce a general statement that is true regardless of specific details. It does not convey the sense of regret or difficulty intended here.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 2.

 

Complete Sentence: "Unfortunately, the matter cannot be settled that easily."

The correct answer is 'Moreover'.

 

Key Points

• The sentence "________, the leader’s comments came a day after the party’s performance in the region was not encouraging" requires a discourse marker that introduces an additional, related piece of information or elaborates on a preceding context (even if unstated).
• Let's analyze the options:
• Despite: This is a preposition and needs to be followed by a noun phrase or a gerund (e.g., "Despite the poor performance," or "Despite the fact that..."). It cannot stand alone as an introductory discourse marker in this sentence structure.
• Engagingly: This is an adverb of manner, describing how something is done. It does not fit the purpose of connecting two factual statements.
• Moreover: This is an adverbial discourse marker meaning "in addition to what has been said; as a further point." It is used to add supplementary information or an argument that supports or extends a previous idea. In this sentence, it introduces the leader's comments as an additional relevant fact following the disappointing performance.
• Endearingly: This is an adverb of manner, describing how something is done. It does not fit the purpose of connecting two factual statements.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 3.

 

Complete Sentence: "Moreover, the leader’s comments came a day after the party’s performance in the region was not encouraging."

The correct answer is 'Meanwhile'.

 

Key Points

• The sentence "________, the squad also has a couple of new faces who are equally well-qualified to play the forthcoming match" introduces an additional piece of information about the squad's composition. The word "also" is a strong clue that more information is being added.
• Let's analyze the options:
• While: This is a subordinating conjunction that usually introduces a contrasting idea or an action happening at the same time. While it could imply contrast, it doesn't fit as naturally for simply adding a new detail about the squad's makeup as other options.
• Because of: This is a prepositional phrase indicating cause or reason. It requires a noun phrase after it and cannot stand alone as an introductory discourse marker like this.
• Meanwhile: This is an adverb meaning "at the same time" or "in the intervening period." As a discourse marker, it often shifts focus to another concurrent event, development, or relevant detail. It fits well here to introduce additional information about the squad's current state, suggesting that in addition to any previously discussed aspects, there are also these new members.
• Kind of: This is an informal phrase used to express approximation or mild qualification. It is not a formal discourse marker to introduce new information in this context.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 3.

 

Complete Sentence: "Meanwhile, the squad also has a couple of new faces who are equally well-qualified to play the forthcoming match."

The correct answer is 'Further'.

 

Key Points

• The first sentence sets the scene: The Principal is discussing the sports meet. The second sentence describes an action taken by the Principal that is a continuation or an additional step within that discussion (responding to an athlete to learn more).
• Let's analyze the options:
• In spite of: This phrase introduces a contrast or concession (meaning "despite"). It would imply that her response happened contrary to some expectation or obstacle, which is not indicated by the context.
• While: This conjunction can mean "at the same time as" or "although/whereas." While "at the same time as" could grammatically fit (implying she responded concurrently with her address), it doesn't best capture the sense of adding to or elaborating on the discussion.
• Still: As a discourse marker, "still" typically implies continuation of a state or action, or a concession ("nevertheless"). It doesn't fit well to introduce a new, related action as a progression.
• Further: This adverb means "in addition; moreover" or indicates a continuation to a greater extent. As a discourse marker, it is used to introduce an additional point or a next step in a sequence of actions or arguments. This perfectly fits the context, indicating that her response and desire to learn more was an additional action taken during her address concerning the sports meet.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 4.

 

Complete Sentence: "The Principal was addressing the students on ways and means of conducting the sports meet of the college. Further, responding to the opinion of one of the athletes, she wanted to learn about how more sports could be included in the meet."

The correct answer is 'Option (3)' i.e. 'Elicit is a verb meaning to draw a reaction from someone. Illicit is an adjective meaning forbidden by law.'

Key Points

• Elicit: (Verb) to draw forth or bring out (something latent or potential) from someone or something.
• Example: Her remarks elicited a smile from the audience.
• Illicit: (Adjective) forbidden by law, rules, or custom.
• Example: He was involved in illicit drug trafficking.

Therefore, the correct answer is- 'Option 3'.

The correct answer is 'Option (1)' i.e. 'Ensure is a transitive verb meaning to make something certain. Insure is a transitive verb meaning to make certain by taking necessary precaution.'

Key Points

• Ensure: (Transitive verb) to make sure or certain; guarantee.
• Example: Please ensure that all doors are locked before you leave.
• Insure: (Transitive verb) to protect against loss, damage, or injury by an insurance policy; to make certain, especially by taking necessary measures and precautions.
• Example: You should insure your car against theft. / Careful planning will insure the success of the project.

Therefore, the correct answer is- 'Option 1'.

The correct answer is 'Option (4)' i.e. 'Imitate is a verb meaning take or follow as a model. Intimate is an adjective meaning closely acquainted.'

Key Points

• Imitate: (Verb) to take or follow as a model or example; to mimic.
• Example: Children often imitate their parents' behavior.
• Intimate: (Adjective) closely acquainted; familiar; private and personal. (Can also be a verb meaning to hint or imply, but in the context of the options provided, the adjective definition is relevant).
• Example: They were intimate friends for many years.

Therefore, the correct answer is- 'Option 4'.

The correct answer is 'Option (2)' i.e. 'Compare is a verb and it means to estimate or measure something. Compere is a noun and it refers to the person who introduces the performers.'

Key Points

• Compare: (Verb) to estimate, measure, or note the similarity or dissimilarity between.
• Example: You can't compare apples and oranges.
• Compere: (Noun) a person who introduces the performers or contestants in a variety show; a master of ceremonies. (Also can be a verb meaning to act as a compere).
• Example: The famous comedian was the compere for the evening.

Therefore, the correct answer is- 'Option 2'.

The correct answer is 'Option (3)' i.e. 'Precept is a noun and it means a general rule intended to regulate behaviour. Percept is a noun and it means an object of perception.'

Key Points

• Precept: (Noun) a general rule intended to regulate behavior or thought.
• Example: The golden rule is a moral precept.
• Percept: (Noun) an object of perception; something that is perceived by the senses.
• Example: The brain organizes sensory data into meaningful percepts.

Therefore, the correct answer is- 'Option 3'.

The correct answer is option 4.

Key Points

• To answer this question, let's first understand the meaning of the word given in the question:
• Practice: (Noun) the actual application or use of an idea, belief, or method, as opposed to theories relating to it; repeated exercise in or performance of an activity or skill so as to acquire or maintain proficiency in it. (Verb) perform (an activity) repeatedly so as to acquire or maintain proficiency in it.
• Now, let's examine the given sentences:
• Sentence 1: He would practice for his basketball match for hours every day.
• This sentence uses "practice" as a verb, which is correct. However, in American English, the verb form is "practice," while in British English, it is "practise." Given the standard competitive exam context, "practice" as a verb is generally accepted. Let's check other options.
• Sentence 2: Our neighbour has been practicing acupuncture for a long time.
• This sentence uses "practicing" as a verb, which is correct. "Practicing a profession" is a common usage.
• Sentence 3: As she practiced, the sound of music filled the halls.
• This sentence uses "practiced" as a verb (past tense), which is correct.
• Sentence 4: It is a not good practice to repeat old mistakes.
• This sentence uses "practice" as a noun, referring to a custom or habit, which is correct usage. The phrase "not good practice" is grammatically sound.

The correct answer is option 1.

Key Points

• To answer this question, let's first understand the meaning of the word given in the question:
• Immensely: (Adverb) to an exceedingly great extent or degree; extremely; very much.
• Now, let's examine the given sentences:
• Sentence 1: Savita felt immensely happy when she got promoted as one of the Directors.
• This sentence correctly uses "immensely" to modify the adjective "happy," emphasizing the great degree of happiness.
• Sentence 2: Ravi’s contribution was immensely to the successful completion of the project.
• Here, "immensely" is incorrectly used. It attempts to describe the contribution itself in terms of degree, but the phrasing "was immensely to" is ungrammatical. One might say "Ravi's contribution was immense" (adjective) or "Ravi contributed immensely" (adverb modifying the verb).
• Sentence 3: Some countries produce oil immensely which impact the world economy.
• "Immensely" is used incorrectly here. It seems to be trying to describe the quantity of oil produced. The correct usage would be "Some countries produce immense amounts of oil" (immense as an adjective) or "Some countries produce oil in immense quantities."
• Sentence 4: He boasts of eating breakfast immensely and falls sick often.
• "Immensely" is incorrectly used here. It's meant to describe the quantity of breakfast eaten, but "eating breakfast immensely" is not idiomatic. One might say "He boasts of eating an immense breakfast" or "He eats breakfast immensely."

Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 1".

The correct answer is option 1.

Key Points

• To answer this question, let's first understand the meaning of the word given in the question:
• Insuperable: (Adjective) (of a difficulty or obstacle) impossible to overcome.
• Now, let's examine the given sentences:
• Sentence 1: The difficulties presented by the situation seemed to be insuperable.
• This sentence correctly uses "insuperable" to describe difficulties that are impossible to overcome.
• Sentence 2: The group went insuperable for weeks during the agitation until the demands were met.
• "Insuperable" is incorrectly used here. It's an adjective describing an obstacle, not a state of being or action for a group. The sentence might intend to say the group was "unyielding" or "persistent."
• Sentence 3: The insuperable element in the whole engagement was the leader herself.
• "Insuperable" is incorrectly used here. While a leader might be formidable, describing a person as "insuperable element" in this context is awkward and not the primary use of the word. It implies the leader herself is an obstacle impossible to overcome, which might be true in a figurative sense, but the phrasing is unnatural. The word typically applies to difficulties or challenges, not directly to people as an "element."
• Sentence 4: The hostel administration remained insuperable for a month.
• "Insuperable" is incorrectly used here. It implies the administration itself was an insurmountable obstacle, which doesn't make sense in this context. It might mean they were unyielding or unresponsive, but "insuperable" is not the correct word for that.

Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 1".

The correct answer is option 4.

Key Points

• To answer this question, let's first understand the meaning of the word given in the question:
• Amoral: (Adjective) lacking a moral sense; unconcerned with the rightness or wrongness of something. It means outside the sphere of morals, not necessarily bad, but indifferent to moral distinctions. This is distinct from "immoral," which means actively wrong or contrary to morality.
• Now, let's examine the given sentences:
• Sentence 1: Murder can be categorized as an amoral act.
• This is incorrect. Murder is universally considered an immoral act, meaning it is morally wrong. An "amoral" act implies a lack of moral consideration, not a violation of moral principles.
• Sentence 2: We must send out a message that we are not an amoral society.
• This is incorrect. A society that lacks a moral sense or is unconcerned with right and wrong would be dysfunctional. The intended meaning is likely that the society is not "immoral" (actively wrong) or perhaps that it is a moral society. "Amoral society" doesn't fit the context of sending a message about societal values.
• Sentence 3: It is amoral to cheat the one who loves you.
• This is incorrect. Cheating someone who loves you is an immoral act, as it is a breach of trust and considered morally wrong. "Amoral" would imply that cheating has no moral dimension, which is not the case here.
• Sentence 4: The pursuit of victory at all costs allows for amoral conduct.
• This sentence correctly uses "amoral." If victory is pursued at all costs, it implies that moral considerations (right or wrong) are disregarded or set aside in favor of achieving the goal. This perfectly aligns with the definition of "amoral" conduct, where the actor is unconcerned with the moral implications as long as the objective is met.

Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 4".

The correct answer is option 2.

Key Points

• To answer this question, let's first understand the meaning of the word given in the question:
• Emigrate: (Verb) to leave one's own country in order to settle permanently in another. It refers to exiting a country.
• Now, let's examine the given sentences:
• Sentence 1: Animals emigrate in search of food from place to place.
• This is incorrect. While animals do move for food, "emigrate" specifically refers to people leaving their country to settle in another. The term for animal movement is usually "migrate."
• Sentence 2: The family decided to emigrate to a safe and secure country.
• This sentence correctly uses "emigrate" as it describes a family leaving their current country to settle permanently in another, safer one.
• Sentence 3: Workers emigrate from province to province in search of seasonal jobs.
• This is incorrect. "Emigrate" implies leaving one's country. Movement within different provinces of the same country is usually referred to as "migrate" or "relocate."
• Sentence 4: New laws were being enacted to control emigration into the country.
• This is incorrect. "Emigration" refers to people leaving a country. Laws to control movement into a country relate to "immigration."

Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 2".