Official Paper

CSIR ASO/SO (English): Memory Based Test (Held on: 6th Feb 2024) (Previous Year Paper)

50 questions · 80 minutes · with answers · free

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Test (50 questions)

1

A sentence has been given with a blank to be filled with an appropriate option. Choose the correct alternative. 

Satya Nadella completed his primary education __________ Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet.

  1. ((a))

    by

  2. ((b))

    from

  3. ((c))

    over

  4. ((d))

    onto

Show Answer
Answer: ((b))

from

The correct answer is 'Option 2'

 Key Points

  • When referring to receiving an education at a particular institution, the correct preposition is "from."
  • The sentence "Satya Nadella completed his primary education from Hyderabad Public School, Begumpet" is grammatically correct.

Therefore, the correct answer is- 'from'.

 Additional Information

  • Option 1 "by" is incorrect because it typically indicates means or method.
  • Option 3 "over" and Option 4 "onto" are not suitable prepositions in this context.
2

Select the option that expresses the given sentence in direct speech.

Ryan informed his wife that she could make use of his truck while he was away.

  1. ((a))

    Ryan said to his wife, “You will make use of my truck while I was away”.

  2. ((b))

    Ryan said to his wife, “Use my truck while I go away”. 

  3. ((c))

    Ryan said to his wife, “You can make use of my truck while I am away”. 

  4. ((d))

    Ryan asked his wife, “Will you make use of my truck while I am away ?”

Show Answer
Answer: ((c))

Ryan said to his wife, “You can make use of my truck while I am away”. 

The correct answer is "Ryan said to his wife, “You can make use of my truck while I am away”"

Key Points

  • Look at the basic rule for this type of conversion: 

  • | Reported | Direct | | --- | --- | | Past | Present | | he could make use of his truck | You can make use of my truck |

  • Look at the example: 

  • Reported: David informed his brother that he could take his car.

  • Direct: David said to his brother, “You can take my car”.

  • Ryan said to his wife, “You can make use of my truck while I am away”.

3

Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word.

Mournful

  1. ((a))

    playful

  2. ((b))

    laughable

  3. ((c))

    joyous

  4. ((d))

    humorous

Show Answer
Answer: ((c))

joyous

The correct answer is 'Joyous'.

<br>

Key Points

  • 'Mournful' (शोकमय) means feeling, expressing, or inducing sadness, regret, or grief.
  • Example: She had a mournful expression on her face.
  • The opposite of feeling sad or grief-stricken would be feelings of happiness and delight, which is captured by the word 'Joyous' (हर्षित).
  • Example: The joyous celebration lasted late into the night.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 3.

<br>

Additional Information

  • 'Playful' (खेलनेवाला) refers to someone who is full of energy and fun.
  • 'Laughable' (हंसी का पात्र) refers to something so ridiculous or unlikely as to be amusing.
  • 'Humorous' (हास्यमय) means causing lighthearted laughter and amusement; comic.
4

The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of them may contain an error. Select the part that contains the error from the given options.

My friend Ragini /shall completed/ her task/ by then.

  1. ((a))

    her task

  2. ((b))

    shall completed

  3. ((c))

    by then

  4. ((d))

    My friend Ragini

Show Answer
Answer: ((b))

shall completed

The correct answer is 'shall completed'

 Key Points

  • The error in this sentence lies in the segment "shall completed".
  • we use the future perfect tense to talk about an action that will have been completed at some point in the future.
  • The structure should be "shall/will + have + past participle" of a verb, so "shall completed" is incorrect.
  • The correct sentence would be: "My friend Ragini shall have completed her task by then."

Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 2".

<br>

Additional Information

  • Option 1: "her task " is correct as it provides the object for the action to be performed.
  • Option 3: "by then" is also correct since it correctly depicts the time reference for the task completion.
  • Option 4: "My friend Ragini" has no errors and properly introduces the subject of the sentence.
5

Select the option that expresses the given sentence in active voice.

The businessman was taken to the nearest hospital by the villagers.

  1. ((a))

    The villagers took the businessman to the nearest hospital.

  2. ((b))

    The villagers took the businessman to hospital.

  3. ((c))

    To the nearest hospital, the villagers took the businessman.

  4. ((d))

    The villagers take the businessman to the nearest hospital.

Show Answer
Answer: ((a))

The villagers took the businessman to the nearest hospital.

The correct answer is 'The villager took the businessman to the nearest hospital'.

Key Points

  • The given sentence is in  Passive Voice. As per the given question, we must change it to Active Voice.
  • The structure of the given sentence is as follows:
  • Subject + V2 + Object. (Active Voice)
  • Subject (objective case) + was/were + V3 + Object (subjective case). (Passive Voice)
  • Example:
  • Their cousin showed them some rare photographs. (Active Voice)
  • They were shown some rare photographs by their cousin. (Passive Voice)
  • The subject of the given sentence is 'The businessman'.​​
  • The object of the given sentence is 'The villagers'.
  • The subject will be put in place of the object and the object will be put in place of the subject.
  • And 'was taken' will be changed into 'took'.
  • Lastly, the preposition 'by' will be removed.

Correct Sentence: The villagers took the business to the nearest hospital*.*

6

Select the correct passive form of the given sentence.

The government gave me a scholarship for performing well in my first year of graduation.

  1. ((a))

    I was given a scholarship by the government for performing well in my first year of graduation.

  2. ((b))

    I am given a scholarship by the government for performing well in my first year of graduation.

  3. ((c))

    I was being given a scholarship by the government for performing well in my first year of graduation.

  4. ((d))

    I will be given a scholarship by the government for performing well in my first year of graduation.

Show Answer
Answer: ((a))

I was given a scholarship by the government for performing well in my first year of graduation.

The correct answer is 'I was given a scholarship by the government for performing well in my first year of graduation.'

Key Points 

  • The given sentence is in Active Voice. As per the given question, we must change it to Passive Voice.
  • The process of transformation is as follows: 
  • The structure of the given sentence is as follows:
  • Subject + V2+ Object. (Active Voice)
  • Subject (objective case)+ was/were + V3 + Object (subjective case). (Passive Voice)
  • Example:
  • Their cousin showed them some rare photographs. (Active Voice)
  • They were shown some rare photographs by their cousin. (Passive Voice)
  • Here, in the given question 'The government' is the subject.
  • And 'me' is an object.
  • The subject will be put in place of the object and the object will be put in place of the subject.
  • And 'gave' will be changed into 'was given'.
  • The conjunction 'by' will be added.
  • Therefore, as per the points mentioned above, we find that the correct answer is Option 1. 

Correct Sentence: I was given a scholarship by the government for performing well in my first year of graduation.

7

Select the grammatically correct sentence.

  1. ((a))

    If Sunaina has worked hard, she would have cleared the test.

  2. ((b))

    If Sunaina had worked hard, she shall have cleared the test.

  3. ((c))

    If Sunaina worked hard, she would have cleared the test.

  4. ((d))

    If Sunaina had worked hard, she would have cleared the test.

Show Answer
Answer: ((d))

If Sunaina had worked hard, she would have cleared the test.

The correct answer is 'If Sunaina had worked hard, she would have cleared the test.'

Key Points​

  • The Third Conditional: The third conditional expresses an unreal situation in the past, with reference to the hypothetical outcome that would result also in the past.
  • The structure used in the third conditional sentences is:
  • if + past perfect | would (could/might) + perfect infinitive
  • Examples, 
  • If I had known how you were going to react, I would have kept my mouth shut.
  • If you had seen the movie, we could have talked about the ending.
  • According to the explanation and examples that are given above, it can be understood that option 4 is the correct answer.

 

Additional Information

  • There are four types of conditional sentences: zero, first, second and third.
  • 1. The Zero Conditional: The zero conditional expresses something that is considered to be a universal truth or when one action always follows another.
  • if (or when) + present tense | present tense
  • if (or when) + past tense | past tense
  • Examples, 
  • When I did my homework, my teacher was happy.
  • If the temperature reaches zero degrees Celsius, water freezes.
  • My mom comforted me when I got scared.
  • If you mix red and yellow, you get orange.
  • NOTE: The zero conditional is the only type of conditional in which “when” can replace “if.”
  • 2. The First Conditional: The first conditional expresses a future scenario that might occur. Assuming that the condition is fulfilled, the outcome is likely to happen.
  • if + present tense | will (may/might/can/could/should) + infinitive
  • Examples, 
  • ​We could go to Paris if we save enough money
  • If I get paid today, I will go shopping.
  • 3. The Second Conditional: The second conditional can either refer to future hypotheticals that are unlikely to be true or present situations that are untrue or impossible.
  • ​if + simple past | would/might/could + infinitive (simple or continuous)
  • Examples, 
  • If I were rich, I would travel the world.
  • If he knew the right people, he could get the promotion.
8

Select the grammatically correct sentence.

  1. ((a))

    You would better consult a physician or you may be sick.

  2. ((b))

    You will be better consult a physician or you will be sick.

  3. ((c))

    You had better consult a physician or you will be sick.

  4. ((d))

    You have better consult a physician or you will be sick.

Show Answer
Answer: ((c))

You had better consult a physician or you will be sick.

The correct answer is 'You had better consult a physician or you will be sick.'

Key Points

  • We use 'had better' to refer to the present or the future, to talk about actions we think people should do or which are desirable in a specific situation.
  • We use 'had better......or' structure if we think there will be negative results if someone does not do what is desired or suggested.
  • Examples, 
  • She had better get here soon or she’ll miss the opening ceremony.
  • We had better take something to eat or we will be hungry later.
  • You had better take an umbrella or you will get wet.
  • I think I had better take them or they will get lost.
  • According to the explanation and examples that are given above, the structure 'had better......or' is the correct usage.
  • Therefore, option 3 is the correct answer.
9

Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.

What to do in the event of a gas ________.

  1. ((a))

    lead

  2. ((b))

    leek

  3. ((c))

    leer

  4. ((d))

    leak

Show Answer
Answer: ((d))

leak

The correct answer is 'Option 4'

 Key Points

  • The blank requires a noun that fits the context of a possible emergency related to gas.
  • The word "leak" specifically refers to an accidental escape of a liquid or gas, especially from a pipe.

Therefore, the correct sentence is: *'*What to do in the event of a gas leak.'

 Additional Information

  • Option 1 "lead" refers to guiding or directing, and doesn't fit here.
  • Option 2 "leek" is a type of vegetable, not relevant to the context.
  • Option 3 "leer" means to look or gaze in an unpleasant or malicious way, and it doesn't fit here.
10

Select the option that expresses the given sentence in active voice.

Fear can be overcome by courage.

  1. ((a))

    Courage can be overcame Fear.

  2. ((b))

    Courage has overcome Fear.

  3. ((c))

    Courage is overcoming Fear.

  4. ((d))

    Courage can overcome Fear.

Show Answer
Answer: ((d))

Courage can overcome Fear.

The correct answer is 'Courage can overcome Fear.​'

Key Points 

  • The given sentence is an example of Passive Voice. As per the given question, we must change it to Active Voice.
  • The process of transformation is as follows:
  • The subject of the given sentence is 'Courage'.
  • The object of the given sentence is 'Fear'.
  • Since a modal verb has been used in the passive voice, therefore, the active voice will follow the given structure:-
  • Active Voice - modal verb*(can)* + V1
  • Passive Voice - modal verb*(can)* + be + V3
  • Here, 'can be overcome' is changed into 'can overcome' because in the 'passive to active' transformation first form of the verb is used. 

​

Correct Sentence: Courage can overcome Fear.

11

Select the option that expresses the given sentence into an indirect speech.

Tina said, “Let Preeti do her worst, she cannot harm her.”

  1. ((a))

    Tina declared that though Preeti might do her worst, she could not harm her.

  2. ((b))

    Tina told that though Preeti might be doing her worst, she could not harm her.

  3. ((c))

    Tina declared that though Preeti may do her worst, she can not harm her.

  4. ((d))

    Tina said to Preeti that she might do her worst, she could not harm her.

Show Answer
Answer: ((a))

Tina declared that though Preeti might do her worst, she could not harm her.

The correct answer is: Tina declared that though Preeti might do her worst, she could not harm her.

Key Points

  • The given sentence is a direct speech, and we need to convert it into an indirect speech.
  • We follow these rules in Direct-Indirect speech:
  • The reporting verb 'said' changes to "declared" in the indirect speech because the direct speech is given as a statement.
  • "Let" changes to "might" in indirect speech.
  • The verb 'cannot' changes to the pronoun 'could not' in indirect speech.
  • The inverted commas ("...") are replaced with the conjunction 'that' to show the indirect speech part.
  • The comma (,) is omitted to show the indirect speech part.
  • The first word of the indirect speech is in capital letters.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 1.

The indirect sentence is: Tina declared that though Preeti might do her worst, she could not harm her.

12

Select the correct passive form of the given sentence.

How many languages can you understand?

  1. ((a))

    How many languages can be understand by you?

  2. ((b))

    How many languages are being understood by you?

  3. ((c))

    How many languages have been understood by you?

  4. ((d))

    How many languages can be understood by you?

Show Answer
Answer: ((d))

How many languages can be understood by you?

The correct answer is 'How many languages can be understood by you?'

Key Points

  • The given sentence is an example of Active Voice. As per the given question, we must change it to Passive Voice.
  • The process of transformation is as follows:
  • In the 'active-passive' transformation except for (who and whom) rest of the Wh-family Pronouns will remain unchanged.
  • Here, in the given question 'How many dialects' will remain unchanged.
  • 'can speak' will be changed into 'can be spoken'.
  • Lastly, the conjunction 'by' will be added.
  • Therefore, as per the points mentioned above, we find that the correct answer is Option 4.

​

Correct Sentence: How many languages can be understood by you?

13

Choose the correctly punctuated sentence.

  1. ((a))

    America's first president, George Washington, served in office from 1789 to 1797.

  2. ((b))

    America's first president George Washington, served in office, from 1789 to 1797.

  3. ((c))

    Americas' first president George Washington, served in office from 1789 to 1797.

  4. ((d))

    Americas first president, George Washington, served in office from 1789 to 1797.

Show Answer
Answer: ((a))

America's first president, George Washington, served in office from 1789 to 1797.

The correct answer is: America's first president, George Washington, served in office from 1789 to 1797. This is correct because it properly uses commas for apposition and avoids unnecessary punctuation errors.

14

Directions: Each of the following sentences in this section has a blank space and is followed by four choices. Select the most appropriate choice to fill in the blank and mark your response accordingly.

She was moving slowly and _________ yesterday when she fell.

  1. ((a))

    shakily

  2. ((b))

    firmly

  3. ((c))

    vaguely

  4. ((d))

    strongly

Show Answer
Answer: ((a))

shakily

The correct answer is 'shakily.

'

 Key Points

  • The blank requires an adverb that describes the manner in which she was moving when she fell.
  • "Shakily" indicates an unsteady or trembling movement, fitting the context.

Therefore, the correct answer is- 'Shakily'.

 Additional Information

  • Option 2 "firmly" and Option 4 "strongly" imply confidence or strength, not suitable here.
  • Option 3 "vaguely" means in a way that is uncertain, indefinite, or unclear, which doesn't fit the context.
15

Choose the sentence that shows the CORRECT use of commas.

  1. ((a))

    Eggs can be fried, scrambled, or, boiled.

  2. ((b))

    Boys enjoy playing, baseball, soccer, and football.

  3. ((c))

    Cereal, eggs, and, pancakes are, breakfast food items.

  4. ((d))

    The most popular pastas are spaghetti, fettuccine, and ravioli.

Show Answer
Answer: ((d))

The most popular pastas are spaghetti, fettuccine, and ravioli.

The correct answer is Option 4. 

Key Points

  • The sentence that shows the correct use of commas is:
  • The most popular pastas are spaghetti, fettuccine, and ravioli. In this sentence, commas are used to separate a list of items (spaghetti, fettuccine, and ravioli). Commas are commonly used in lists to separate individual items or elements

Additional Information

  1. Eggs can be fried, scrambled, or, boiled.
  • This sentence contains incorrect comma usage. The comma after "or" is unnecessary and creates a comma splice. The correct sentence would be: "Eggs can be fried, scrambled, or boiled." Here, the commas are used to separate the list of cooking methods for eggs.
  1. Boys enjoy playing, baseball, soccer, and football.
  • This sentence also contains incorrect comma usage. The commas are placed after "playing" and "baseball" in a way that disrupts the sentence structure. The correct sentence would be: "Boys enjoy playing baseball, soccer, and football." In this corrected version, the commas are used to separate the list of sports that boys enjoy playing.
  1. Cereal, eggs, and, pancakes are, breakfast food items.
  • This sentence demonstrates incorrect comma placement and redundant commas. The commas after "and" and "are" are unnecessary and disrupt the sentence's clarity. The correct sentence would be: "Cereal, eggs, and pancakes are breakfast food items." Here, the commas are appropriately used to separate the list of breakfast food items.
  1. The most popular pastas are spaghetti, fettuccine, and ravioli.
  • This sentence shows the correct use of commas. The commas are used to separate the list of popular pasta types. The sentence is clear and effectively communicates the intended meaning.
16

The sentence below is divided into four segments. Select the option that has an error of tense.

I has been / visiting my / family and relatives / during the winter vacation

  1. ((a))

     during the winter vacation

  2. ((b))

    family and relatives

  3. ((c))

    visiting my

  4. ((d))

    I has been

Show Answer
Answer: ((d))

I has been

The correct answer is 'Option 4'.

Key Points

  • The segment of the sentence that contains an error of tense is: 'I has been'.
  • In English, the present perfect continuous tense is formed using "has been" or "have been" along with the present participle (verb-ing).
  • The choice between "has been" and "have been" depends on the subject.
  • For the first person singular pronoun "I", the correct form is "have been". So the corrected phrase should be "I have been".

Therefore, the correct sentence is: "I have been visiting my family and relatives during the winter vacation."

17

Select the most appropriate synonym for the given word.

Strength

  1. ((a))

    Recluse 

  2. ((b))

    Weakness

  3. ((c))

    Power 

  4. ((d))

    Disability

Show Answer
Answer: ((c))

Power 

The correct answer is: Power.

Key Points

  • Strength refers to the quality or state of being physically strong, mentally robust, or possessing a particular skill or attribute. (शारीरिक रूप से मजबूत, मानसिक रूप से मजबूत होने या किसी विशेष कौशल या विशेषता रखने की गुणवत्ता या स्थिति)
  • Example: His strength of character and determination enabled him to overcome adversity and achieve his goals.
  • The synonym for Strength is Power.
  • Marked option Power denotes the ability to do something or control others. (कुछ करने या दूसरों को नियंत्रित करने की क्षमता)
  • Example: The power of the windmill was enough to generate electricity for the entire village.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 3.

Additional Information

  • Recluse means a person who lives a solitary life and avoids company. (वह व्यक्ति जो एकान्त जीवन जीता है और संगति से दूर रहता है)
  • Weakness means the state of being physically or mentally weak. (शारीरिक या मानसिक रूप से कमज़ोर होने की अवस्था या भाव)
  • Disability means a physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or activities. (एक शारीरिक या मानसिक स्थिति जो किसी व्यक्ति की गतिविधियों, इंद्रियों या गतिविधियों को सीमित करती है)
18

A sentence has been given with a blank to be filled with an appropriate option. Choose the correct alternative.

You have the power ______ the perspective of this nation.

  1. ((a))

    changing

  2. ((b))

    to change

  3. ((c))

    change

  4. ((d))

    changed

Show Answer
Answer: ((b))

to change

The correct answer is: "to change".

Key Points

  • In this sentence, "You have the power" is the main clause.
  • The phrase following "power" should be in the infinitive form (base form) of the verb because it indicates what action can be taken with that power.
  • "To change" is the infinitive form of the verb "change," and it's the appropriate choice because it indicates what action can be done with the power.
  • So, the complete sentence reads: "You have the power to change the perspective of this nation."
  • This means that you have the ability to influence or modify the way the nation views or perceives something.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 2.

Complete sentence: You have the power to change the perspective of this nation.

Additional Information

  • "Changing" is a present participle and does not fit grammatically.
  • "Change" is in the base form and would require an auxiliary verb such as "can" or "will" to make sense in the sentence.
  • "Changed" is in the past tense and does not fit the present tense sentence.
19

Select the option that expresses the given sentence in direct speech.

Shane requested me to bring him a burger.

  1. ((a))

    Shane said, ‘Buddy, please bring me a burger.’

  2. ((b))

    Shane said, ‘Will you bring me a burger.’ 

  3. ((c))

    ‘Please bring me a burger’, said Shane. 

  4. ((d))

    ‘Please bring Shane a burger.’, said he.

Show Answer
Answer: ((c))

‘Please bring me a burger’, said Shane. 

The correct answer is "‘Please bring me a burger, said Shane." 

Key Points

  • Look at the basic rule for this type of conversion: 
  • When we want to report an order or request, we can use a verb like 'tell' with a to-clause
  • The pattern is verb + indirect object + to-clause.
  • Look at the example​
  • Hence, the correct answer is ‘Please bring me a burger’, said Shane.
20

Choose the correctly punctuated sentence.

  1. ((a))

    We will leave for Paris on Saturday, May 5 and return on Sunday, May 27.

  2. ((b))

    We will leave for Paris on Saturday; May 5, and return on Sunday; May 27.

  3. ((c))

    We will leave for Paris on Saturday, May 5 and return on Sunday; May 27.

  4. ((d))

    We will leave for Paris on Saturday; May 5 and return on Sunday; May 27.

Show Answer
Answer: ((a))

We will leave for Paris on Saturday, May 5 and return on Sunday, May 27.

The correct answer is "We will leave for Paris on Saturday, May 5 and return on Sunday, May 27."

Key Points

  • Here, the comma is used to separate the day of the week ("Saturday") from the date ("May 5"). This is standard usage in English.
  • The word "and" is a coordinating conjunction connecting two independent clauses.
  • The first is "We will leave for Paris on Saturday, May 5", and the second is "return on Sunday, May 27".
  • In English, when two independent clauses are connected by a coordinating conjunction, no comma is necessary before the conjunction unless the clauses are very long or there is a risk of misunderstanding.

Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 1".

21

Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.

Feasibility

  1. ((a))

    Sustainability 

  2. ((b))

    Impropriety 

  3. ((c))

    Heavy 

  4. ((d))

    Probability

Show Answer
Answer: ((d))

Probability

The correct answer is: Probability.

<br>

Key Points

  • Feasibility means the likelihood or possibility of something happening. (कुछ घटित होने की संभावना)
  • Example: The feasibility study concluded that implementing the new technology is economically viable for the company.
  • Probability is a synonym of feasibility because it also refers to the likelihood or chance of something occurring. (किसी चीज़ के घटित होने की संभावना)
  • Example: There is a high probability of rain tomorrow, so you might want to carry an umbrella.

Thus, option 4 is the correct answer.

Additional Information

  • Sustainability refers to the ability to maintain or continue something over time, often in reference to environmental practices. (किसी चीज़ को समय के साथ बनाए रखने या जारी रखने की क्षमता, अक्सर पर्यावरणीय प्रथाओं के संदर्भ में)
  • Impropriety means improper behaviour or conduct. (अनुचित व्यवहार या आचरण)
  • Heavy refers to something that is of great weight or burden. (कोई ऐसी चीज़ जो बहुत अधिक वजन या बोझ वाली हो)
22

Which of the following best expresses the idiom given in capital words in the sentence.

He does not have money to pay back the loan, he is IN A TIGHT CORNER.

  1. ((a))

    in a difficult situation

  2. ((b))

    hiding in the house

  3. ((c))

    in the prison

  4. ((d))

    being bankrupt

Show Answer
Answer: ((a))

in a difficult situation

The correct answer is 'in a difficult situation'.

Key Points

  • Underlined Idiom: In a tight corner means to be in a particularly difficult or awkward situation, especially one that is not easy to escape or resolve.
  • From the given options, the first option is the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
  • Thus, the correct answer is option 1 i.e in a difficult situation.

Mistake Points

  • We may think from the phrase "in a tight corner" that it is all about hiding in the house, but the correct answer is option 1. So be careful while dealing with such questions.

Hinglish

  • Be in a tight Corner: एक मुश्किल स्थिति में होना
23

Directions: Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

To cost an arm and a leg

  1. ((a))

    To give away an arm and a leg

  2. ((b))

    Not readily available

  3. ((c))

    Easily affordable

  4. ((d))

    Very expensive

Show Answer
Answer: ((d))

Very expensive

The correct answer is 'Very expensive'.

Key Points

  • Given Idiom: To cost an arm and a leg means very expensive.
  • For example, This cricket kit is really nice, but it cost me an arm and a leg.
  • From the given options, the fourth option is the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

Mistake Points

  • We may think from the phrase "To cost an arm and a leg" that it is all about to give away an arm and a leg, but the correct answer is option 4. So be careful while dealing with such questions.

Additional Information

  • The idiom/phrase originates from: This is an American phrase, coined sometime after World War II. Probable reference is to soldiers who had lost their limbs in the war, thus having to pay a very high price for the war.
24

Select the correct passive form of the given sentence.

The architect will renovate the dining room.

  1. ((a))

    The dining room was being renovated by the architect.

  2. ((b))

    The dining room is being renovated by the architect.

  3. ((c))

    The dining room has been renovated by the architect.

  4. ((d))

    The dining room will be renovated by the architect.

Show Answer
Answer: ((d))

The dining room will be renovated by the architect.

The correct answer is 'The dining room will be renovated by the interior designer'.

Key Points 

  • In Active Voice, a sentence emphasizes the subject, performing an action. In Passive Voice, a sentence emphasizes the action or the object of the sentence.
  • The given sentence is in the active voice and 'The architect' is the subject and 'the dining room' is the object.
  • When we convert this sentence into passive voice, the subject 'The interior designer' of the active voice becomes the object, and the object 'the guest room' becomes the subject.
  • The passive format "will + be + V3 (renovated)" should be used.
  • This is the active and passive voice rule for the future simple tense.

Correct Sentence: The dining room will be renovated by the architect.

25

Direction: Choose the correct sentence from the following:

  1. ((a))

    I have neither tea nor coffee.

  2. ((b))

    I love both apples but bananas. 

  3. ((c))

    He is not only intelligent, and also very funny.

  4. ((d))

    Would you like tea and coffee?

Show Answer
Answer: ((a))

I have neither tea nor coffee.

The correct answer- 'I have neither tea nor coffee.​'

Key Points

  • In the first option, the sentence is 'I have neither tea nor coffee.​'
  • We have to use neither as a conjunction with nor.
  • It connects two or more negative alternatives.
  • Hence, this option is correct.
  • In the second option, the sentence is 'I love both apples but bananas.'
  • 'And' connects or adds one thing to another.
  • 'But' is used to show a contrast between two items or ideas.
  • Therefore, the use of 'but' should be replaced with 'and' to make it grammatically correct.
  • Hence, this option is incorrect.
  • In the third option, the sentence is 'He is not only intelligent, and also very funny.'
  • Correlative conjunctions are pairs of conjunctions that work together.
  • Therefore, the use of 'and' should be replaced with 'but' to make it grammatically correct.
  • Hence, this option is incorrect.
  • In the fourth option, the sentence is 'Would you like tea and coffee?'
  • 'And' connects or adds one thing to another.
  • 'Or' is used to present an alternative to an already present positive idea.
  • Therefore, the use of 'and' should be replaced with 'or' to make it grammatically correct.
  • Hence, this option is incorrect.

Thus, the correct sentence is 'I have neither tea nor coffee.​'

Additional Information

  • Conjunctions are words that link other words, phrases, or clauses together.
  • Conjunctions allow you to form complex, elegant sentences and avoid the choppiness of multiple short sentences.
  • Example: I like cooking and eating, but I don’t like washing dishes afterwards.

​

​

  • पहले विकल्प में, वाक्य है 'I have neither tea nor coffee.​'
  • हमें  neither का उपयोग  'nor' करना है।
  • यह दो या अधिक नकारात्मक विकल्पों को जोड़ता है।
  • इसलिए, यह विकल्प सही है।
  • दूसरे विकल्प में, वाक्य है, 'I love both apples but bananas.'
  • 'And' एक चीज को दूसरे से जोड़ता है।
  • 'But' का उपयोग दो वस्तुओं या विचारों के बीच एक विपरीत दिखाने के लिए किया जाता है।
  • इसलिए, इसे व्याकरणिक रूप से सही बनाने के लिए 'But' की जगह 'And' का उपयोग किया जाना चाहिए।
  • इसलिए, यह विकल्प गलत है।
  • तीसरे विकल्प में, वाक्य है 'He is not only intelligent, and also very funny.'
  • Correlative conjunctions कंजंक्शंस के जोड़े हैं जो एक साथ काम करते हैं।
  • इसलिए, इसे व्याकरणिक रूप से सही बनाने के लिए 'And' की जगह 'But' का उपयोग किया जाना चाहिए।
  • इसलिए, यह विकल्प गलत है।
  • चौथे विकल्प में, वाक्य है 'Would you like tea and coffee?'
  • 'And' एक चीज को दूसरे से जोड़ता है।
  • 'Or' का उपयोग पहले से मौजूद सकारात्मक विचार के विकल्प को प्रस्तुत करने के लिए किया जाता है।
  • इसलिए, इसे व्याकरणिक रूप से सही बनाने के लिए 'And' की जगह 'Or' का उपयोग किया जाना चाहिए।
  • इसलिए, यह विकल्प गलत है।
26

Direction: From the given four options choose the correct sentence:

  1. ((a))

    My friend had leave by the time I got to her house.

  2. ((b))

    Kanha had completed the task before the teacher asked.

  3. ((c))

    I will liked to travel around the world.

  4. ((d))

    When I went out, you was shouting from behind.

Show Answer
Answer: ((b))

Kanha had completed the task before the teacher asked.

The correct answer is: '​​Kanha had completed the task before the teacher asked.'

Key Points

  • '​My friend had leave by the time I got to her house.' is the incorrect answer.
  • The given sentence is in the past perfect tense and its Structure is: Subject + had + past participle form of the main verb​
  • ​'had leave' should be replaced by 'had left' in the sentence.​
  • '​​Kanha had completed the task before the teacher asked.' is correct because the given sentence is in the Past perfect tense and it is grammatically correct.
  • '​I will liked to travel around the world.' is the incorrect answer.
  • The given sentence is in the Simple Future tense and its Structure is: Subject + will/shall + V1 form of the main verb​
  • ​'will liked' should be replaced by 'will like' in the sentence.
  • '​When I went out, you was shouting from behind.' is the incorrect answer.
  • The given sentence is in the Past Tense.
  • The structure for sentences in the Past Continous Tense with 'when' is: When + subject + simple past tense + subject + was/were + verb+ing . .
  • The pronoun 'you' is singular and plural takes a plural verb.
  • Therefore, the correct answer is '​​Kanha had completed the task before the teacher asked.'

The correct sentence: Kanha had completed the task before the teacher asked.

Additional Information

  • Verbs come in three tenses: past, present, and future.
  • The past tense is used to describe things that have already happened (e.g., earlier in the day, yesterday, last week, three years ago).
  • The present tense is used to describe things that are happening right now, or things that are continuous.
  • The future tense describes things that have yet to happen (e.g., later, tomorrow, next week, next year, three years from now).
  • Example: I read nearly every day.

                Last night, I read an entire novel.

                I will read as much as I can this year.

27

The following sentence has been split into four segments. Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.

While my wife / cooked the food, / I writing / a book.

  1. ((a))

    a book

  2. ((b))

    cooked the food, 

  3. ((c))

    I writing

  4. ((d))

    While my wife 

Show Answer
Answer: ((c))

I writing

The correct answer is "Option 3: I writing".

Key Points

  • The phrase "I writing" is incorrect as it does not follow proper verb tense usage.
  • The correct phrase would be "I was writing" because when two actions were happening simultaneously in the past, the past continuous tense is used for both actions.
  • The rest of the sentence is grammatically correct.

Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 3: I writing".

Additional Information

  • The segments "a book", "cooked the food," and "While my wife," do not contain errors and are grammatically correct.
  • Hence, the rest of the options are incorrect.
28

Select the correct active voice of the given sentence.

The stories of great Indian revolutionaries are being translated into other languages.

  1. ((a))

    They translated the stories of great Indian revolutionaries into other languages.

  2. ((b))

    They have translated the stories of great Indian revolutionaries into other languages.

  3. ((c))

    They were translating the stories of great Indian revolutionaries into other languages.

  4. ((d))

    They are translating the stories of great Indian revolutionaries into other languages.

Show Answer
Answer: ((d))

They are translating the stories of great Indian revolutionaries into other languages.

The correct answer is 'They are translating the stories of great Indian revolutionaries into other languages'.

Key Points 

  • The given sentence is in the Passive Voice. As per the given question, we must change the sentence to Active Form.
  • The given sentence is an example of 'present continuous'.
  • The structure of these kinds of sentences is:
  • Subject + is/am/are + V1 + ing + Object. (Active Voice)
  • Subject(Objective Case) + is/am/are + being+ V3 + by + Object (subjective case). (Passive Voice)
  • Example:
  • He is riding a bike. (Active Voice)
  • A bike is being ridden by him. (Passive Voice)
  • The subject of the given sentence is 'The stories of great Indian revolutionaries' and the object of the given sentence is 'they (hidden object)'. In the active voice, we need a specific subject who is performing the action.
  • If you don't have a specific agent or subject mentioned in the original sentence, it's common to use a generic term like "they" to indicate that the action is being performed by an unspecified person or group.
  • The subject will be put in place of the object and the object will be put in place of the subject.
  • Here, 'are being translated' will be changed into 'are translating'.
  • The preposition 'by' will be used in the end.

Correct Sentence: They are translating the stories of great Indian revolutionaries into other languages.

29

Direction: A sentence has been given with a blank to be filled with an appropriate option. Choose the correct alternative.

These were two Indian men who ______ hiding in the forest.

  1. ((a))

    was

  2. ((b))

    has been

  3. ((c))

    had been

  4. ((d))

    have being

Show Answer
Answer: ((c))

had been

The correct answer is "had been."

<br>

 Key Points

  • The sentence is in past tense, so the correct option should also be in past tense.
  • "Had been" is the correct past perfect continuous tense form of the verb "to be".
  • We use the past perfect continuous to talk about actions or events which started before a particular time in the past and were still in progress up to that time in the past.
  • Example: I had been working on my essays the night before and I was very tired.
  • The use of "hiding" suggests that the men were doing something in secret, which makes the past perfect tense appropriate.
  • The correct answer is Option 3.

Correct sentence: These were two Indian men who had been hiding in the forest. 

Additional Information

  • Option 1 - "was" is in the past tense, but it is not the correct form of the verb "to be" in this context.
  • Option 2 - "has been" is in the present perfect tense, which is not appropriate for a sentence in the past tense.
  • Option 4 - "have being" is not grammatically correct. It should be "have been".
30

Choose the correct sentence from the following:

  1. ((a))

    Is the snake alive or dead?

  2. ((b))

    Did he come by bus and by train?

  3. ((c))

    I don't know whether you like her and not.

  4. ((d))

    Which do you prefer, white wine and red wine?

Show Answer
Answer: ((a))

Is the snake alive or dead?

The correct answer- 'Is the snake alive or dead?'

Key Points

  • The sentences 'Did he come by bus and by train?', 'I don't know whether you like her and not.' and 'Which do you prefer, white wine and red wine?' are incorrect.
  • 'And' is a coordinating conjunction and we use it to connect two words, phrases, clauses or prefixes together.
  • Example: Televisions and computers are dominating our daily life.
  • 'Or' is used to present an alternative to an already present positive idea.
  • ​Example: Would you like tea or coffee?
  • Therefore, the use of 'and' should be replaced with 'or' to make the sentences grammatically correct.

Thus, the correct sentence is 'Is the snake alive or dead?'

Additional Information

  • Conjunctions are words that link other words, phrases, or clauses together.
  • Conjunctions allow you to form complex, elegant sentences and avoid the choppiness of multiple short sentences.
  • Example: I like cooking and eating, but I don’t like washing dishes afterwards.

​**​

  • वाक्य 'Did he come by bus and by train?', 'I don't know whether you like her and not.' और 'Which do you prefer, white wine and red wine?' गलत हैं।
  • 'And' एक समन्वित संयोजन है और हम इसका उपयोग दो शब्दों, वाक्यांशों, खंडों या उपसर्गों को एक साथ जोड़ने के लिए करते हैं।
  • उदाहरण: Televisions and computers are dominating our daily life.
  • 'Or' का उपयोग पहले से मौजूद सकारात्मक विचार के विकल्प को प्रस्तुत करने के लिए किया जाता है।
  • उदाहरण: *Would you like tea or coffee?*​​
  • इसलिए, इसे व्याकरणिक रूप से सही बनाने के लिए 'and' को 'or' से बदला जाना चाहिए।
31

Select the option that expresses the given sentence in direct speech.

Sneha says that She is very sorry.

  1. ((a))

    Sneha told me, ‘I felt sorry’.

  2. ((b))

    Sneha said, ‘Sneha was very sorry’. 

  3. ((c))

    Sneha says, ‘I am very sorry’. 

  4. ((d))

    Sneha said, ‘Sneha is very sorry’.

Show Answer
Answer: ((c))

Sneha says, ‘I am very sorry’. 

The correct answer is "Sneha says, ‘I am very sorry’" 

Key Points

  • Look at the basic rule for this type of conversion: 

  • | Reported | Direct | | --- | --- | | Simple present | simple present | | She is very sorry | I am very sorry |

  • Here the reported verb is "says", which is a present tense, so reported speech will be in the present tense.

  • Look at this example

  • Reported: Rashika says that She is utterly disappointed.

  • Direct: Rashika says, ‘I am utterly disappointed.

  • Hence the correct answer is Sneha says, ‘I am very sorry’.

32

Select the option that expresses the given sentence into an indirect speech.

Kabir said, “My maternal uncle was working in this company.”

  1. ((a))

    Kabir said that his maternal uncle had been working in that company.

  2. ((b))

    Kabir said that my maternal uncle was working in that company.

  3. ((c))

    Kabir said that my maternal uncle has worked in that company.

  4. ((d))

    Kabir said that his maternal uncle has been working in that company.

Show Answer
Answer: ((a))

Kabir said that his maternal uncle had been working in that company.

The correct answer is: ​Kabir said that his maternal uncle had been working in that company.

Key Points

  • The given sentence is a direct speech, and we need to convert it into an indirect speech.
  • We follow these rules in Direct-Indirect speech:
  • The reporting verb 'said' remains unchanged.
  • The pronoun 'my' changes to 'his' in the indirect speech.
  • If the direct speech part is written in the past continuous tense, then it changes to the past perfect continuous tense in the indirect part.
  • Therefore "was working" changes to "had been working" in the indirect speech.
  • The inverted commas ("...") are replaced with the conjunction 'that' to show the indirect speech part.
  • The comma (,) is omitted to show the indirect speech part.
  • The first word of the indirect speech is in capital letters.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 1.

The indirect sentence is: ​Kabir said that his maternal uncle had been working in that company.

33

Select the word which is closest to the opposite in meaning of the given words 

Agony

  1. ((a))

    irritation

  2. ((b))

    anger

  3. ((c))

    Pleasure

  4. ((d))

    rage

Show Answer
Answer: ((c))

Pleasure

The correct answer is 'Pleasure'.

<br>

Key Points

  • 'Agony' (यातना) is a word that signifies intense feelings of suffering - the suffering can be mental or physical. It's used to indicate extreme discomfort or pain.
  • Example: He was in agony after the accident.
  • The opposite of suffering or pain would be feelings of enjoyment or satisfaction, which is captured by the word 'Pleasure' (आनंद).
  • Example: It's a pleasure to meet you.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 3.

<br>

Additional Information

  • 'Irritation' (चिढ़) is a feeling of annoyance.
  • 'Anger' (क्रोध) is a strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or hostility.
  • 'Rage' (क्रोध) is violent, uncontrollable anger.
34

Choose the CORRECTLY punctuated sentence.

  1. ((a))

    The novelist, Harper Lee very seldom spoke publicly.

  2. ((b))

    The novelist, Harper Lee, seldom spoke publicly. 

  3. ((c))

    The novelist, Harper Lee: spoke publicly seldom.

  4. ((d))

    The novelist Harper Lee, very seldom spoke publicly.

Show Answer
Answer: ((b))

The novelist, Harper Lee, seldom spoke publicly. 

The correct answer is "The novelist, Harper Lee, seldom spoke publicly.".

Key Points

  • This sentence is correctly punctuated using a pair of commas to include the appositive ("Harper Lee") which is a noun or noun phrase that renames another noun right beside it.
  • The phrase "Harper Lee" is giving us more information about the "novelist", so it's an appositive here.
  • It is a standard rule of English grammar to offset non-restrictive appositives with commas - in this case "Harper Lee".

​Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 2".

35

Directions: Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom in the given sentence.

Their decision to shift their base to Delhi put a spoke in our wheel.

  1. ((a))

    to assist someone

  2. ((b))

    to hinder

  3. ((c))

    to have a selfish interest

  4. ((d))

    to make someone happy

Show Answer
Answer: ((b))

to hinder

The correct answer is 'to hinder'.

Key Points

  • The underlined idiom 'put a spoke in one's wheel' means 'to prevent somebody from putting their plans into operation'.
  • In the given sentence, when they decided to shift their base to Delhi, they prevented the other party from executing its plans.
  • The word 'hinder' means 'to delay, impede or prevent action'.
  • The idiom originates from cartwheels that used to be made of solid wood, with holes in them through which a wooden bar or 'spoke' could be pushed in order to make the cart slow down or stop.
  • So, 'to hinder' is the correct answer.
<br>

Additional Information

  • The given idiom 'put a spoke in one's wheel' is an object and weapon based idiom.
  • Here are some other idioms based on object and weapon:

 

IdiomMeaning
Keep the pot boilingmaintain  the brisk momentum of something.
At dagger's drawnto have bitter enmity
Blow one's trumpetto speak highly of oneself

  • Put a spoke in one's wheel: टांग अड़ाना
  • Meaning: दखल देना, अडचन डालना
36

Select the option that expresses the given sentence into an indirect speech.

Minakshi wanted to know, “Is Madhav staying with his parents now?”

  1. ((a))

    Minakshi wanted to know if Madhav stayed with his parents then.

  2. ((b))

    Minakshi wanted to know if Madhav was staying with his parents then.

  3. ((c))

    Minakshi asked Madhav if he was staying with his parents then.

  4. ((d))

    Minakshi wanted to know does Madhav stays with his parents now.

Show Answer
Answer: ((b))

Minakshi wanted to know if Madhav was staying with his parents then.

The correct answer is: Minakshi wanted to know if Madhav was staying with his parents then.

Key Points

  • The given sentence is a direct speech and we need to convert it into an indirect speech.
  • We follow these rules in Direct-Indirect speech:
  • In the interrogative sentence while a sentence starts with reporting verb then at the conversion time "if" is used as the joining clause.
  • If the direct speech part is written in the present continuous tense (Subject +is/am/are+V1 +ing+ Object) then it changes to the past continuous tense (Subject +was/were+V1 +ing+ Object) in the indirect part.
  • Therefore "is staying" changes to "was staying" in the indirect speech.
  • 'now' changes to 'then' in the indirect speech.
  • The inverted commas ("...") are removed to show the indirect speech part.
  • The comma (,) is omitted to show the indirect speech part.
  • The first word of the indirect speech is in capital letters.
  • The question tag is replaced by a full stop in the indirect speech.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 2.

The indirect sentence is: Minakshi wanted to know if Madhav was staying with his parents then.

37

From the given four options choose the correct sentence.

  1. ((a))

    Those general techniques are indeed more harder to apply when it comes to civil wars. 

  2. ((b))

    Because my coffee was too cold, I heated it in the microwave.

  3. ((c))

    She returned the computer after she noticed it was damage.

  4. ((d))

    Whenever prices go up, customers buy less products.

Show Answer
Answer: ((b))

Because my coffee was too cold, I heated it in the microwave.

The correct answer is 'Because my coffee was too cold, I heated it in the microwave '.

Key Points

  • Let's take a look at the given statements-
  • In statement 1, the error lies in the incorrect usage of 'more', double comparatives are never used in a single sentence, therefore 'more' needs to be replaced with 'much'.
  • In statement 3, the error lies in the incorrect usage of the verb after auxiliary verb 'was'. The usage of 'was' denotes the structure of simple past and therefore will require a second form of the verb, thus 'damage' needs to be replaced with 'damaged'.
  • In statement 4, the error lies in the incorrect usage of verb after 'prices'. Here in this sentences 'prices' is being used as a collective noun as it is expressing the prices as in whole, and collective nouns are generally used as singular, therefore, 'go' needs to be replaced with 'goes'.
  • Statement 2 contains no error. Because is used as a conjunction in this sentence and is used to state a reason for a sentence, thus the use of because is correct here.

Thus, the correct sentence is "Because my coffee was too cold, I heated it in the microwave."

38

Choose the CORRECTLY punctuated quotation.

If you’re sure you’re ready said Mr. Gupta go ahead and start

  1. ((a))

    “If you’re sure you’re ready”; said Mr.Gupta “Go ahead and start”.

  2. ((b))

    “If you’re sure you’re ready,” said Mr. Gupta, “go ahead and start.”

  3. ((c))

    “If you’re sure you’re ready,” said Mr.Gupta, “Go ahead and start”.

  4. ((d))

    “If you’re sure you’re ready?” said Mr. Gupta “go ahead and start.”

Show Answer
Answer: ((b))

“If you’re sure you’re ready,” said Mr. Gupta, “go ahead and start.”

The correct answer is “If you’re sure you’re ready,” said Mr. Gupta, “go ahead and start.”

Key Points

  • Dialogue should start and end with quotation marks.
  • Comma placement is also important. In this case, it should come after "ready" and before the closing quotation mark.
  • This indicates a pause in the speaker's dialogue, signifying that an attribution (the "said Mr. Gupta" part) follows.
  • After "said Mr. Gupta," another comma is used to show that the same person continues speaking.
  • Then, the second part of the dialogue starts with quotation marks.
  • The correct way to use punctuation is to have a space after the period or full stop.
  • So "Mr. Gupta" is correctly spaced in this version, distinguishing between the person’s name and the verb "said."
  • The word "go" is not capitalized in the correct answer, because it's a continuation of Mr. Gupta's previous statement.
  • Capitalization would be needed if it was a new sentence or if another person were speaking.

Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 2".

39

Direction: A sentence has been given with a blank to be filled with an appropriate option. Choose the correct alternative.

Farms are increasingly turning to automation for ______ reasons.

  1. ((a))

    many

  2. ((b))

    most

  3. ((c))

    much

  4. ((d))

    little

Show Answer
Answer: ((a))

many

Here, the correct answer is "many."

Key Points

  • The use of "many" in this sentence emphasizes that there are numerous reasons for the trend of farms adopting automation.
  • The reason for choosing "many" in the blank is to indicate that there are numerous or multiple reasons why farms are increasingly adopting automation.
  • Using "many" suggests a variety of factors contributing to the trend, emphasizing the complexity and diversity of the reasons behind the shift towards automation in farming practices.
  • The correct answer is Option 1.

Correct sentence: Farms are increasingly turning to automation for many reasons.

Additional Information

  • Most: "Most" is used to refer to the majority or a large portion of a group.
  • Much: "Much" is used to refer to a large amount or degree, often with uncountable nouns.
  • Little: "Little" is used to indicate a small quantity or degree, often with uncountable nouns.
40

Direction: From the given four options choose the correct sentence:

  1. ((a))

    Four teams is playing at this moment.

  2. ((b))

    The carpenters tries to build the furniture as per our demand.

  3. ((c))

    You cannot avoided this situation.

  4. ((d))

    My mother shut the door to avoid being overheard.

Show Answer
Answer: ((d))

My mother shut the door to avoid being overheard.

The correct answer is: '​My mother shut the door to avoid being overheard.'

Key Points

  • '​Four teams is playing at this moment.' is the incorrect answer.
  • The given sentence is in the Present Continous Tense and its structure is: Subject + am/is/are + verb + ing + . . . . . . . . .
  • The subject 'teams' is plural, therefore, a plural helping verb 'are' should be used.
  • 'The carpenters tries to build the furniture as per our demand.' is incorrect.
  • The subject 'carpenters' is a plural noun, therefore, a plural verb 'try' should be used with it.
  • 'You cannot avoided this situation.' is incorrect because cannot is a model verb and after a modal verb, the root form of a verb is generally used.
  • ​Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs (also called helping verbs) like can, will, could, shall, must, would, might, and should. 
  • Here, 'avoided' should be replaced by 'avoid'.
  • '​My mother shut the door to avoid being overheard.' is the correct answer because all parts of speech are used correctly in this context and the sentence is grammatically correct.
  • Therefore, the correct answer is '​My mother shut the door to avoid being overheard.'

The correct sentence: ​My mother shut the door to avoid being overheard.

Additional Information

  • Verbs come in three tenses: past, present, and future.
  • The past tense is used to describe things that have already happened (e.g., earlier in the day, yesterday, last week, three years ago).
  • The present tense is used to describe things that are happening right now, or things that are continuous.
  • The future tense describes things that have yet to happen (e.g., later, tomorrow, next week, next year, three years from now).
  • Example: I read nearly every day.

                Last night, I read an entire novel.

                I will read as much as I can this year.

41

Direction: From the given four options choose the correct sentence:

  1. ((a))

    He is a miser man.

  2. ((b))

    She works hardly to make both ends meet.

  3. ((c))

    It is nothing else but sheer foolishness.

  4. ((d))

    I rarely went to meet nobody. 

Show Answer
Answer: ((c))

It is nothing else but sheer foolishness.

The correct answer- 'It is nothing else but sheer foolishness.' 

Key Points

  • An adverb is a word that modifies a verb, an adjective, another adverb, or even a whole sentence.
  • Adverbs often end in -ly, but some (such as fast) look exactly the same as their adjective counterparts.
  • The option 'He is a miser man.' is incorrect.
  • The word 'miser' is a noun.
  • Therefore, 'miser' should be replaced with 'miserly'.
  • The option '​She works hardly to make both ends meet.' is incorrect.
  • The adverb 'hard' means with a great deal of effort and the adverb 'hardly' means scarcely.
  • Therefore, according to the given sentence, the adverb 'hard' should be used.
  • The option 'It is nothing else but sheer foolishness.' is correct.
  • The word 'but' is used after 'else', which is the correct structure.
  • The option 'I rarely went to meet nobody.' is incorrect.
  • The word ​'nobody' should be replaced with 'anybody'.
  • Therefore, the correct answer is 'It is nothing else but sheer foolishness.'

The correct sentence- It is nothing else but sheer foolishness.

Additional Information

  • Adverbs can also modify adjectives and other adverbs.
  • Often, the purpose of the adverb is to add a degree of intensity to the adjective.
  • Example: This book is more interesting than the last one.
  • ​Adverbs that end in-ly or have three or ‘more’ syllables each form the comparative with more and the superlative with ‘most’.

​

PositiveComparativeSuperlative
AngrilyMore angrilyMost angrily
HeavilyMore heavilyMost heavily
QuietlyMore quietlyMost quietly
TerriblyMore terriblyMost terribly

  • एक adverb एक शब्द है जो a verb, an adjective, another adverb या यहां तक ​​कि एक पूरे वाक्य को संशोधित करता है।
  • Adverbs अक्सर -ly में समाप्त होते हैं, लेकिन कुछ (जैसे तेज) बिल्कुल उनके विशेषण समकक्षों के समान होते हैं।
  • विकल्प 'He is a miser man.' गलत है।
  • 'miser' शब्द एक संज्ञा है।
  • इसलिए, 'miser', 'miserly' के साथ प्रतिस्थापित किया जाना चाहिए।
  • विकल्प '​She works hardly to make both ends meet.' गलत है।
  • क्रिया विशेषण 'hard'- with a great deal of effort और adverb 'hardly' का मतलब शायद ही साथ साधन(scarcely)।
  • इसलिए, दिए गए वाक्य के अनुसार, क्रिया विशेषण 'hard' का उपयोग किया जाना चाहिए।
  • विकल्प 'It is nothing else but sheer foolishness.' सही है।
  • शब्द 'but' का उपयोग 'else' के बाद किया जाता है, जो कि सही संरचना है।
  • विकल्प 'I rarely went to meet nobody.' गलत है।
  • शब्द 'I rarely went to meet nobody.' के साथ प्रतिस्थापित किया जाना चाहिए।
  • शब्द 'no body', 'anybody' के साथ प्रतिस्थापित किया जाना चाहिए।

Read the poem given below and answer the questions that follow choosing the correct alternatives.

Loveliest of trees, the cherry now

Is hung with bloom along the bough,

And stands about the woodland ride

Wearing white for Eastertide.

<br>

Now of my threescore years and ten,

Twenty will not come again,

And take from seventy springs a score,

It only leaves fifty more.

<br>

And since to look at things in bloom

Fifty springs are little room,

About the woodlands I will go

To see the cherry hung with snow.

42

How many years, according to the poet, is he left with to look at things in bloom? 

  1. ((a))

    twenty

  2. ((b))

    threescore and ten

  3. ((c))

    fifty

  4. ((d))

    sixty

Show Answer
Answer: ((c))

fifty

The correct answer is "fifty". 

Key Points

  • The poet mentions in the second stanza that
  • "Now of my threescore years and ten
  • Twenty will not come again
  • And take from seventy springs a score
  • It only leaves fifty more".
  • 'Threescore and ten' means seventy years (a score is twenty years).
  • The poet says he has lived twenty of these years, so those years will "not come again".
  • ​This leaves fifty years.
  • This interpretation is further strengthened by the lines
  • "And since to look at things in bloom
  • Fifty springs are little room."
  • This is the time the poet has left to look at things in bloom.
  • Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 3".

Additional Information

  • Twenty (option 1): This is the amount of years the poet says has already passed, not what he has remaining.
  • Threescore and ten (option 2): This is the poet's total lifespan, not what he has remaining.
  • Sixty (option 4): The poem does not suggest that the poet has sixty years remaining to look at things in bloom.
43

Why does the poet wish to go about the woodlands? 

  1. ((a))

    to see the cherry tree laden with snow

  2. ((b))

    to see the cherry tree hung with white flowers

  3. ((c))

    to collect the blossoms from the cherry tree

  4. ((d))

    to see the snow on the cherry flowers

Show Answer
Answer: ((b))

to see the cherry tree hung with white flowers

The correct answer is "to see the cherry tree hung with white flowers". 

Key Points

  • From the given poem, it's clear that the poet has a great appreciation for the blooming cherry tree which is "hung with bloom along the bough".
  • The poet expresses his intention to walk "About the woodlands".
  • The last line of the poem is "To see the cherry hung with snow", which is a metaphor for the cherry tree's white blossoms.
  • Therefore, it can be concluded that the poet wishes to go about the woodlands to observe the cherry tree with its white blossoms.
  • Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 2".

Additional Information

  • 'To see the cherry tree laden with snow' (option 1) and 'to see the snow on the cherry flowers' (option 4) might be misinterpretations of the poet's metaphorical use of the word 'snow' to describe the white blossoms.
  • 'To collect the blossoms from the cherry tree' (option 3) is not suggested anywhere in the poem. The poet expresses a desire to observe the beauty, not to collect it.
44

Where does the cherry tree stand?

  1. ((a))

    in the garden

  2. ((b))

    about the woodland path

  3. ((c))

    on the premises of a church

  4. ((d))

    on the bank of a river

Show Answer
Answer: ((b))

about the woodland path

The correct answer is "about the woodland path". 

Key Points

  • The poem mentions "And stands about the woodland ride."
  • In this context, "ride" is an old term that refers to a path or a way through a wood.
  • Therefore, the cherry tree in the poem stands about or along the woodland path.
  • Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 2".

Additional Information

  • There is no mention in the poem of the cherry tree standing in a garden (option 1), on the premises of a church (option 3), or on the bank of a river (option 4). These options are therefore incorrect.
45

The first stanza describes the _________ of the cherry tree. 

  1. ((a))

    leaves

  2. ((b))

    roots

  3. ((c))

    fruits

  4. ((d))

    blossoms

Show Answer
Answer: ((d))

blossoms

The correct answer is "blossoms". 

Key Points

  • The first stanza of the poem provides a vivid description of a cherry tree.
  • The cherry tree is described as the "loveliest of trees" and is said to be "hung with bloom along the bough," which suggests the tree is covered in blossoms.
  • The phrase "Wearing white for Eastertide" also hints at the blossoms, as cherry blossoms are traditionally white.
  • Considering all these points, it is clear that the first stanza of the poem is describing the blossoms of the cherry tree and not any other element.
  • Therefore, the correct answer is 'Option 4'

Additional Information

  • Leaves: Although leaves are an essential part of any tree, this stanza does not focus on describing the leaves specifically.
  • The description is more about the tree being "Hung with bloom", referring to the blossoms.
  • Roots: There is no description or reference made to the roots of the cherry tree in the first stanza of the poem.
  • Fruits: Again, while cherries are fruits, the author does not describe the fruits per se.
  • The focus is solely on the beautiful blossoms that have appeared, indicating the arrival of spring.

Directions: First read the passage and then answer the questions based on it.

<br>

I was very fond of the old soldier in our little town. He had only one leg, having lost the other somewhere in Assam in 1942. He used to tell me about his adventures. He told me that he had run away from home to join the army. He had experienced his first battle in the Libyan desert. Out of his dozens of war stories, the one I liked best was the one of his escape from a Japanese prison-of-war camp in Burma. He told me again and again how he walked two hundred miles in two weeks. On the way he was bitten on the toe by a poisonous snake and he had to cut off part of the toe in order to survive. But by the time he got to an Indian Camp the wound had turned septic and the leg had to be amputated. He is, however, quite contented with his lot.

46

The soldier's leg had to be amputated because 

  1. ((a))

    he had walked 200 miles in two weeks

  2. ((b))

    he was wounded in war

  3. ((c))

    the wounded toe turned septic 

  4. ((d))

    he was shot in the leg while escaping from the Japanese camp

Show Answer
Answer: ((c))

the wounded toe turned septic 

The correct answer is "the wounded toe turned septic". 

Key Points

  • The passage mentions that after being bitten on the toe by a snake, the soldier had to cut off part of his toe to survive. However, by the time he reached an Indian camp, the wound had turned septic.
  • Therefore, the amputation of the soldier's leg is directly attributed to the septic condition of the wound, not to the long journey or any injury sustained in war or during his escape.
  • Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 3".

Additional Information

  • Option 1: "he had walked 200 miles in two weeks"- The walking might have exacerbated the condition, but the amputation was a result of the septic condition of his wound, not directly from the long walk.
  • Option 2: "he was wounded in war"- The soldier was wounded by a snake bite, not in a war injury.
  • Option 4: "he was shot in the leg while escaping from the Japanese camp"- The passage does not mention any incident where the soldier was shot in the leg during his escape.
47

The old soldier, according to the author, was 

  1. ((a))

    unhappy about his life

  2. ((b))

    satisfied with his lot

  3. ((c))

    angry about his fate

  4. ((d))

    disgusted with his misfortune

Show Answer
Answer: ((b))

satisfied with his lot

The correct answer is "satisfied with his lot". 

Key Points

  • The last line of the passage clearly states that the soldier was "quite contented with his lot," meaning that he was satisfied with his life's circumstances.
  • Despite all the challenges and trials, including losing his leg, the soldier seemed to have a positive or at least a content outlook on life.
  • Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 2".

Additional Information

  • Option 1: "unhappy about his life" - The passage doesn't suggest that the old soldier was unhappy with his life, but rather indicates that he was content or satisfied.
  • Option 3: "angry about his fate"- The passage doesn't suggest the soldier was angry about his fate. There's no indication of any anger or resentment.
  • Option 4: "disgusted with his misfortune" - Again, the passage does not suggest any feeling of disgust from the soldier regarding his misfortune. Instead, he appears to accept his circumstances.
48

The story of the old soldier that the author liked most was that about 

  1. ((a))

    his running away from home to join the army

  2. ((b))

    his first battle in the Libyan desert

  3. ((c))

    the loss of his leg in Assam

  4. ((d))

    his escape from a Japanese prison of-war camp

Show Answer
Answer: ((d))

his escape from a Japanese prison of-war camp

The correct answer is "his escape from a Japanese prison of-war camp". 

Key Points

  • The passage explicitly states "Out of his dozens of war stories, the one I liked best was the one of his escape from a Japanese prison-of-war camp in Burma."
  • The author clearly favored this tale above the others because of its intense and dramatic circumstances, as well as the courage and resourcefulness demonstrated by the soldier.
  • Therefore, the correct answer is "Option 4".

Additional Information

  • Option 1: "his running away from home to join the army"- While this is an interesting part of the soldier's history, the author does not specifically indicate liking this part the most.
  • Option 2: "his first battle in the Libyan desert"- Similarly, the author does not single this out as the best-liked story.
  • Option 3: "the loss of his leg in Assam"- The passage does not clarify that the author particularly likes this traumatic event.
49

Why did the old soldier repeatedly tell that he walked two hundred miles? 

  1. ((a))

    He ran away from home to join the army

  2. ((b))

    He had to cross the Libyan desert

  3. ((c))

    He had to escape from a prison-of- war camp

  4. ((d))

    He was a strong soldier

Show Answer
Answer: ((c))

He had to escape from a prison-of- war camp

The correct answer is "He had to escape from a prison-of- war camp".

Key Points

  • The story about walking two hundred miles is directly associated with his escape from the prison camp, as indicated in the passage: "the one I liked best was the one of his escape from a Japanese prison-of-war camp in Burma. He told me again and again how he walked two hundred miles in two weeks."
  • The text indicates that the old soldier repeatedly told the story of walking two hundred miles as part of his escape from a Japanese prison-of-war camp in Burma.
  • From the above explanation it is clear that the correct answer is "Option 3".
50

The author was very fond of the old soldier because 

  1. ((a))

    He had lost one of his legs in war 

  2. ((b))

    He used to tell the author about his adventures

  3. ((c))

    He was contented with his lot

  4. ((d))

    He had been to many countries

Show Answer
Answer: ((b))

He used to tell the author about his adventures

The correct answer is "He used to tell the author about his adventures". 

Key Points

  • In the text, there is a close connection between the author's fondness for the old soldier and his tales of adventure.
  • The author mentions that the old soldier "used to tell me about his adventures" and specifically singles out one story: the one about the old soldier's escape from a Japanese prison-of-war camp in Burma.
  • The author's interest and admiration for the old soldier's adventuresome past is further shown by mention of the fact that they are fond of a specific story and listen to it again and again.
  • The particular adventures that the soldier recounts, the various hardships he overcomes, and his capacity to tell these stories in a fascinating way, together seem to form the basis of the author's affection for him.
  • Therefore, the author's fondness for the old soldier appears to stem from the adventurous stories the old soldier tells, not solely because of the soldier's personal circumstances or experiences, as suggested by the other answer choices.

Hence, the correct answer is "Option 2".

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