English Comprehension PYQs

The correct answer is Option 2 i.e 'Adverb'.

Key Points

• The underlined word "better" modifies the verb "sings" by explaining how the action was performed, which is a characteristic of an adverb.
• Adverbs often answer the questions how, when, where, and to what extent. In this case, "better" is answering "how" the action was performed.
• The word "better" is an irregular form of the adverb "well".
• Adverbs can modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, further specifying or qualifying the action or characteristic they are describing.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Option 2.

Additional Information

• Adjective: An adjective modifies or describes a noun or pronoun. In the given sentence, there is no word being used to directly modify a noun in this manner.
• Noun: A noun is a person, place, thing, or idea. In the sentence, "settings" is an example of a noun. "Better," however, is not a noun.
• Verb: A verb is a word expressing an action, occurrence, or state of being. In the sentence, "sings" is the verb, indicating the action being taken. "Better" serves to modify how the action is performed, not to act as an action itself.

The correct answer is Option 1 i.e 'Noun'.

Key Points

• The underlined word "dailies" refers to daily newspapers, which is a type of noun.
• Nouns are words that name people, places, things, or ideas. In this case, "dailies" is a thing (newspapers).
• The word "dailies" is a plural form of "daily," which is used as a noun to mean newspapers that are published every day.
• Nouns can be subjects or objects in a sentence. Here, "dailies" is the object of the preposition "in."

Therefore, the correct answer is- Option 1.

Additional Information

• Adjective: An adjective modifies or describes a noun or pronoun. "Dailies" is not used to describe another noun here.
• Adverb: An adverb modifies a verb, adjective, or other adverb, often answering how, when, where, or to what extent. "Dailies" does not modify any verb, adjective, or adverb here.
• Determiner: A determiner is a word that introduces a noun and identifies it in detail, such as "the," "a," "an," "this," "those," etc. "Dailies" is not a determiner in this context.

The correct answer is Option 3 i.e 'Gerund'.

Key Points

• The underlined word "Smoking" is used as a noun in this sentence, which is a characteristic of a gerund.
• Gerunds are verb forms that function as nouns, often ending in -ing.
• The word "smoking" names the activity and serves as the subject of the sentence.
• Gerunds can act as subjects, objects, or complements in a sentence.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Option 3.

Additional Information

• Participle: A participle is a verb form used as an adjective. In the given sentence, "smoking" is not used to describe a noun.
• Infinitive: An infinitive is the base form of a verb, often preceded by "to". "Smoking" is not in this form.
• Verb: A verb expresses an action, occurrence, or state of being. In the sentence, "is" is the verb, not "smoking".

The correct answer is Option 1 i.e 'Pronoun'.

Key Points

• The underlined word "one" serves as a pronoun in the sentence, standing in place of a previously mentioned noun.
• Pronouns are used to avoid repeating the same nouns over and over again. In this sentence, "one" is used to refer to a specific item or choice without naming it again.
• The word "one" helps in making the sentence concise and avoids redundancy.
• Pronouns can take the place of nouns to help with sentence variety and clarity.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Option 1.

Additional Information

• Verb: A verb is a word expressing an action, occurrence, or state of being. In the sentence, "made" is the verb, indicating the action being taken.
• Number: A number indicates quantity or order. "One" can sometimes be a number, but in this context, it is used as a pronoun.
• Adverb: An adverb modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. In this case, "one" does not function as an adverb.

The correct answer is Option 3 i.e 'Determiner'.

Key Points

• The underlined word "some" is used to modify the noun "water" by indicating an unspecified quantity, which is a characteristic of a determiner.
• Determiners often answer the questions how many or which one. In this case, "some" is answering "how much" water is in the bottle.
• The word "some" is commonly used as a determiner to indicate an indefinite quantity.
• Determiners can modify nouns to specify a quantity or to clarify which particular item is being referred to.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Option 3.

Additional Information

• Adverb: An adverb modifies a verb, an adjective, or another adverb. In the given sentence, "some" is not modifying a verb, adjective, or adverb.
• Conjunction: A conjunction connects words, phrases, or clauses. In the sentence, "some" is not performing this function.
• Verb: A verb is a word expressing an action, occurrence, or state of being. In the sentence, "some" is not indicating an action, occurrence, or state of being.

The correct answer is Option 1 i.e 'Interjection'.

Key Points

• The underlined word "Hurray!" is an exclamation of joy or triumph, which classifies it as an interjection.
• Interjections are words or phrases that express strong emotion or sudden bursts of feeling and are often followed by an exclamation mark.
• Unlike conjunctions, adjectives, and interrogatives, interjections stand alone and are not grammatically related to other parts of the sentence.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Option 1.

Additional Information

• Conjunction: A conjunction connects words, phrases, or clauses. "Hurray!" is not functioning as a conjunction in this sentence.
• Adjective: An adjective modifies or describes a noun or pronoun. "Hurray!" is not modifying any noun but expressing a feeling.
• Interrogative: An interrogative word is used to ask questions (e.g., who, what, when). "Hurray!" is not used to ask a question.

The correct answer is Option 1 i.e 'Participle'.

Key Points

• The underlined word "having" is derived from the verb "have" and is used here in its participle form to indicate a completed action.
• A participle often functions as an adjective, but it can also be part of a participle phrase that provides more information about the subject of the sentence.
• In this sentence, "having finished her work" is a participle phrase that describes the condition under which Sharmila left home.
• Participles can be either present (ending in -ing) or past (usually ending in -ed, -d, -t, -en, or -n).

Therefore, the correct answer is- Option 1.

Additional Information

• Auxiliary verb: An auxiliary verb is used with a main verb to help express the main verb's tense, mood, or voice. "Having" here is not used as an auxiliary verb.
• Adverb: An adverb modifies a verb, adjective, or other adverb, explaining how, when, where, or to what extent. "Having" does not perform this function in the sentence.
• Conjunction: A conjunction connects words, phrases, or clauses. "Having" is not used as a conjunction in this context.

The correct answer is Option 2 i.e 'Adverb'.

Key Points

• The underlined word "around" modifies the verb "moves" by explaining how the action was performed, which is a characteristic of an adverb.
• Adverbs often answer the questions how, when, where, and to what extent. In this case, "around" is answering "where" the teacher moves.
• The word "around" is commonly used as an adverb to indicate location or direction.
• Adverbs can modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, further specifying or qualifying the action or characteristic they are describing.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Option 2.

Additional Information

• Adjective: An adjective modifies or describes a noun or pronoun. In the given sentence, there is no word being used to directly modify a noun in this manner.
• Noun: A noun is a person, place, thing, or idea. In the sentence, "teacher" and "class" are examples of nouns. "Around," however, is not a noun.
• Verb: A verb is a word expressing an action, occurrence, or state of being. In the sentence, "moves" is the verb, indicating the action being taken. "Around" serves to modify how or where the action is performed, not to act as an action itself.

The correct answer is Option 4 i.e 'Adjective'.

Key Points

• The underlined word "cantankerous" describes the noun "men" by explaining a characteristic of the men, which is a function of an adjective.
• Adjectives often answer questions like which one, what kind, and how many. In this case, "cantankerous" is answering "what kind" of men they are.
• The word "cantankerous" is used to describe a quality or characteristic, which is a common role of adjectives.
• Adjectives can modify nouns or pronouns, further specifying or qualifying the noun they are describing.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Option 4.

Additional Information

• Verb: A verb is a word expressing an action, occurrence, or state of being. In the sentence, "roar" is the verb, indicating the action being taken. "Cantankerous" serves to modify the noun, not to act as an action itself.
• Adverb: An adverb modifies a verb, adjective, or other adverb, often explaining how, when, where, or to what extent. "Cantankerous" does not modify a verb, adjective, or other adverb in this sentence.
• Determiner: A determiner introduces a noun and specifies it in terms of definiteness, quantity, or possession. "Cantankerous" does not serve this function in the sentence.

The correct answer is Option 1 i.e 'Noun'.

Key Points

• The underlined word "fountainhead" is a noun because it refers to a person, place, thing, or idea.
• Nouns are often used as the subject or object in a sentence, and in this case, "fountainhead" serves as a metaphorical noun representing the origin or source of democracy.
• The word "fountainhead" does not describe a verb, adjective, or another adverb, which rules out the possibility of it being an adverb or adjective.
• Nouns can be identified by their ability to be preceded by articles (a, an, the) or determiners (this, that, these, those), and in this sentence, "the fountainhead" fits this structure.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Option 1.

Additional Information

• Adjective: An adjective modifies or describes a noun or pronoun. In the given sentence, there is no word being used to directly modify a noun in this manner.
• Adverb: An adverb modifies a verb, adjective, or another adverb. The underlined word does not perform any of these functions in the sentence.
• Interjection: An interjection is a word used to express an emotion or sentiment. The word "fountainhead" does not serve this purpose in the sentence.

The correct answer is 'Option(3)' i.e. 'we have learnt to bear general and universal physical fear'.

Key Points

• The passage begins by stating, "Our tragedy today is a general and universal physical fear so long sustained by now that we can even bear it."
• This indicates that the primary tragedy is the fact that we have come to endure and live with this pervasive physical fear.
• The author elaborates that this sustained fear overshadows the problems of the human heart, which should be a writer's focus, implying this endurance of fear is tragic.

Therefore, the correct answer is - we have learnt to bear general and universal physical fear.

Additional Information

• We are unable to bear pain (Option 1): This is not supported by the passage, which speaks about our ability to bear fear, not an inability to bear pain.
• We have forgotten the problems of the human heart (Option 2): While this is a concern of the author, it stems from the larger tragedy of enduring fear.
• The fear of the spirit (Option 4): This option is not mentioned in the context provided by the passage.

The correct answer is 'Option(2)' i.e. 'The problems of a heart in conflict with itself'.

Key Points

• The passage explains that due to the prevailing physical fear, writers have forgotten "the problems of the human heart in conflict with itself which alone can make good writing."
• The author emphasizes the importance of writing about "the old verities and truths of the heart" such as love, honor, pity, pride, compassion, and sacrifice.

Therefore, the correct answer is - The problems of a heart in conflict with itself.

Additional Information

• The lessons of life (Option 1): While related, the passage specifically mentions "the problems of the human heart in conflict with itself" as what needs to be relearned.
• To be afraid (Option 3): This is contrary to the passage; the author criticizes the state of being afraid and wants writers to forget this fear.
• To be fearless (Option 4): While the author does suggest that writers should not be afraid, this option does not capture the specific aspect of needing to relearn the problems of the heart.

The correct answer is 'Option(3)' i.e. 'universal truths'.

Key Points

• The author states that good writing must focus on "the old verities and truths of the heart, the old universal truths" such as love, honor, pity, pride, compassion, and sacrifice.
• These universal truths are essential to ensure that any story is not ephemeral and doomed.

Therefore, the correct answer is - universal truths.

Additional Information

• Stories of love and lust (Option 1): The passage criticizes writing that focuses on lust over love, favoring deeper universal truths.
• Stories of victories (Option 2): The author dismisses victories without hope or compassion and instead emphasizes issues of the heart.
• Ephemeral facts (Option 4): The passage asserts that without universal truths, a story is ephemeral and doomed, making this the opposite of what the author advocates.

The correct answer is 'Option(4)' i.e. 'of his spirit, born of his soul'.

Key Points

• The author states, "I believe man will not merely endure: he will prevail. He is immortal, not because he alone among creatures has an inexhaustible voice, but because he has a soul, a spirit capable of compassion and sacrifice."
• This indicates that the author believes the true reason man will prevail is due to his spirit and soul, which possess qualities like compassion and sacrifice.

Therefore, the correct answer is - of his spirit, born of his soul.

Additional Information

• Of his inexhaustible voice (Option 1): The author explicitly states that this is not the reason for man's immortality.
• Of his endurance (Option 2): While endurance is mentioned, the author focuses on the qualities of man's spirit and soul as the reason for his immortality.
• Of his mortal life (Option 3): This is contrary to the idea presented by the author, who speaks about man's immortality and spiritual qualities.

The correct answer is 'Option(3)' i.e. 'tiny'.

Key Points

• The word "puny" is used in the context of describing man's voice: "that of his puny inexhaustible voice, still talking."
• "Puny" generally means small or weak. In this context, it refers to the voice being small or seemingly insignificant but persistent.

Therefore, the correct answer is - tiny.

Additional Information

• Brave (Option 1): This does not fit the context or common meaning of "puny."
• Daring (Option 2): This is not synonymous with "puny."
• Doomed (Option 4): This also does not convey the meaning of "puny."

The correct answer is "Option 1" i.e. "they do not understand the multidimensional character of change."

Key Points

• The passage emphasizes that people experience ambivalence about the meanings, form, and consequences of educational change, implying a lack of understanding.
• It states that change often is not conceived of as being multidimensional, which directly points to the core issue being the multidimensional character.
• The author mentions that ignorance of the separate dimensions of change explains phenomena in the field of educational changes.
• The multidimensional character of change includes elements such as goals, skills, philosophy, or beliefs, which are not typically clear to the individuals involved.

Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 1."

Additional Information

• Option 2: "they see the certainty in the change" – This is incorrect because the passage suggests uncertainty and ambivalence about change, not certainty.
• Option 3: "they are ambiguous in their decision" – This is not a direct reason provided in the passage. The passage focuses on a fundamental misunderstanding rather than just decision-making ambiguity.
• Option 4: "it takes time and hard work" – While true, the passage does not specify that time and effort are the primary reasons for misunderstanding change, but rather the multidimensional nature is the core issue.

The correct answer is "Option 2" i.e. "there is clarity regarding its aspects."

Key Points

• The passage suggests that people experience ambivalence about educational changes because the different aspects of these changes are experienced in a diffuse, incoherent manner.
• It specifically mentions that the meaning of an educational change can be clarified by identifying and describing its separate dimensions.
• The author indicates that ignorance of these dimensions explains why some people accept innovations they do not understand.
• The emphasis on the need for clarity regarding various dimensions of change implies that such clarity would lead to better acceptance and understanding.

Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 2."

Additional Information

• Option 1: "they find meaning of the innovation in their use" – This option focuses on practical application but does not address the need for a clear understanding of the innovation's aspects, as mentioned in the passage.
• Option 3: "they themselves learn to innovate in their contexts" – Although learning to innovate is valuable, the passage emphasizes understanding the multidimensionality of changes rather than the action of innovating.
• Option 4: "they work with their immediate and distant colleagues" – Collaboration is important, but the passage stresses the need for clarity regarding the aspects of innovation over the act of working with others.

The correct answer is "Option 2" i.e**. "Objective reality may be influenced by subjective thinking and considerations."**

Key Points

• The passage states that objective reality is often defined by individuals and groups.
• It points out the danger that the so-called objective reality might only reflect the subjective conceptions of the producers of change.
• The author warns that what is perceived as objective might just be a glorified version of subjective ideas.
• The author suggests a method to address this issue by asking double questions, indicating the need to scrutinize the sources and influences behind the perceived objective reality.

Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 2."

Additional Information

• **Option 1: "**Objective reality is a collective reality which may have many problems" – This option does not accurately capture the specific caution about subjective influence that the author emphasizes.
• Option 3: "Objective reality is the collective influence of all people" – While reality is affected by groups and interactions, the caution is particularly about subjective biases, not just the collective influence of people.
• Option 4: "Objective considerations are part of the subjective reality and thus they are interrelated" – This option is misleading as it suggests an interrelation rather than the specific caution about the risk of subjective biases compromising objective reality.

The correct answer is "Option 3" i.e. "Components and dimensions."

Key Points

• The word 'whole' suggests something that is complete and undivided.
• "Components" refers to individual parts that make up a larger whole, thus directly opposing the idea of something that is wholly integrated.
• "Dimensions" also refers to distinct aspects or elements of a larger whole, implying separation rather than a complete entity.
• Both these terms are used in the passage to describe separate parts of educational changes that need to be understood.

Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 3."

Additional Information

• **Option 1: "**Version and ramifications" – These words do not directly imply parts of a whole.
• Option 2: "Phenomena and programmes" – These refer to occurrences and plans, respectively, not specifically parts of a whole.
• Option 4: "Conceptions and programmes" – These refer to ideas and plans, not parts of a whole.

The correct answer is "Option 4" i.e. "Change has to be conceptualised collectively in its many dimensions, and dealt with objectively."

Key Points

• The author emphasizes that educational change is often not understood because it is experienced subjectively in a diffuse manner.
• To better understand and implement change, it is necessary to identify and describe its separate dimensions, making the change process more coherent.
• The author highlights the importance of considering the objective reality of change and acknowledges the danger that this objective reality might just reflect the subjective views of its producers.
• The practice of posing double questions is suggested to ensure that the objective nature of change is scrutinized for any subjective biases.

Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 4."

Additional Information

• Option 1: "Change is subjective and warrants objectivity from conceptualisation to implementation" – While this captures the need for objectivity, it does not encompass the author's emphasis on the multidimensional nature of change.
• Option 2: "Subjectivity cannot be ruled out by describing the main dimensions of change" – This option highlights the persistence of subjectivity but ignores the author's focus on clarifying dimensions for better understanding.
• Option 3: "It is difficult to conceptualise the change which satisfies all sections with understanding" – This is a broader statement that does not specifically address the author's detailed points about the multidimensional aspects and the necessity for objective reality.