IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) · Topic Collection

English Comprehension PYQs

Reading comprehension, vocabulary, synonyms and antonyms, idiom usage, error spotting, sentence improvement, and cloze tests.

1460 Total Questions46 Official PapersYears: 2018–2026Search in English Comprehension
Showing questions 321–340 of 1460Page 17 of 73
IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
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Question 321

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

Read the sentence below to find out if there is any error in it. The error, if any, will be in one part of the sentence. The letter of that part is the answer. If there is no error the answer is (5). (Ignore errors in punctuation if any)

Absolute (A)/ no deterrent (B)/ to this kind (C)/ of behavior. (D)/ No Error (E)

  1. AOption (a)

    A

  2. BOption (b)

    B

  3. COption (c)

    C

  4. DOption (d)

    D

  5. EOption (e)

    E

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

A

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is option 1.

Key Points

  • The error in part A of a sentence, the error is in usage 'Absolute'
  • Here, we need to use the adverb form of 'Absolute'
  • Hence we need to replace 'Absolute' with 'Absolutely'

Correct sentence - Absolutely no deterrent to this kind of behavior.​

Additional Information

  • Adverbs usually end with 'ly'.
  • If any additional information is given regarding verbs then it is considered as an adverb.
  • In the given sentence the adverb absolutely Describes the verb deterrent
IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
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Question 322

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

Read the sentence below to find out if there is any error in it. The error, if any, will be in one part of the sentence. The letter of that part is the answer. If there is no error the answer is (5). (Ignore errors in punctuation if any).

When State politics mattered to (A)/national electoral outcomes. (B)/Fiscal or administrative centralization persisted**(C)/ despite nearly two decades of coalition governments.(D)/ No error(E)**

  1. AOption (a)

    A

  2. BOption (b)

    B

  3. COption (c)

    C

  4. DOption (d)

    D

  5. EOption (e)

    E

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

C

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is option 3.

 

  • The error is in Part C of the sentence, the error is in use of or.
  • Coordinate adjectives should be separated by a comma or the word and.
  • Adjectives are said to be coordinated if they modify the same noun in a sentence.
  • Hence in the given sentence 'or' should be replaced with 'and'.​

Correct sentence*-* When state politics mattered to national electoral outcomes, fiscal and administrative centralization persisted despite nearly two decades of coalition governments

 

  • Adjective is the word that gives additional information regarding the noun.
IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
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Question 323

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

Read the sentence below to find out if there is any error in it. The error, if any, will be in one part of the sentence. The letter of that part is the answer. If there is no error the answer is (5). (Ignore errors in punctuation if any)

Representatives of various trader bodies (A)/ claimed that crowding is main (B)/ due to the presence of street vendors (C)/ and it is up to the administration to prevent it (D)/ No error (E).

  1. AOption (a)

    A

  2. BOption (b)

    B

  3. COption (c)

    C

  4. DOption (d)

    D

  5. EOption (e)

    E

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

B

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is option 2.

Key Points 

  • The error in part B of a sentence, the error is in usage 'main'
  • Here, we need to use the adverb form of 'main'
  • Hence we need to replace 'main' with 'mainly'

Correct answer - Representatives of various trader bodies claimed that crowding is mainly due to the presence of street vendors and it is up to the administration to prevent it.

Additional Information

  • Adverbs usually end with 'ly'.
  • If any additional information is given regarding verbs then it is considered as an adverb.
  • In the given sentence the adverb mainly Describes the verb crowding.
IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
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Question 324

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

In the following, two columns are given containing three phrases each. In the first column, phrases are A, B, and, C and in the second column, the are D, E, and F. A phrase from the first column may or may not connect with a phrase from the second column to make a grammatically and contextually correct sentence. If none of the options given forms a correct sentence after combination, select 'None of these' as your answer.

Column IColumn II
(A) Once we establish our goals,(D) with lots of twists and turns.
(B) It is a current event(E) completion of disengagement of frontline troops.
(C) The two sides positively appraised the smooth(F) we will identify more potential employers.
  1. AOption (a)

    B-E

  2. BOption (b)

    B-D

  3. COption (c)

    A-E

  4. DOption (d)

    C-D

  5. EOption (e)

    None of these

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

B-D

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is B-D.

Key Points

  • Let's look at the correct combinations:
  • A-F: Once we establish our goals, we will identify more potential employers.
  • B-D: It is a current event with lots of twists and turns.
  • C-E: The two sides positively appraised the smooth completion of disengagement of frontline troops.
  • ​The combination A-F is contextually correct as part A states 'Once we establish our goals', and part F sequentially completes the sentence stating 'we will identify more potential employers'.
  • The combination B-D is contextually correct as part B states 'It is a current event', and part D completes the sentence stating 'with lots of twists and turns'.
  • The combination C-E is contextually correct as part C states, **'The two sides positively appraised the smooth', and part E completes the sentence stating 'completion of disengagement of frontline troops'.

Hence, the only correct combination in the options is B-D.

IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
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Question 325

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

Below are given some sentences out of which the sentence numbered 4 has been correctly placed. The rest of the sentences A, B, C, D, E, F need to be arranged correctly in order to form a logical order.

A. The early modern period in Europe gave rise to huge technological and cultural developments that completely transformed European society.

B. Historians have divided history into three divisions, namely antiquity, the mediaeval period and the modern period.

C. This period also saw the birth of scholasticism, a philosophy that put reason over faith - and the birth of universities. 4. The middle mediaeval period in Europe also saw the establishment of feudalism and manorialism as kings became the heads of states and succeeded in reducing crime and violence greatly.

D. The early mediaeval period in Europe was characterized by population declines, invasions, mass migrations and the collapse of central authority.

E. However, the late mediaeval period in Europe was marked by famines and plagues which greatly reduced her population.

F. The middle mediaeval period was, however, a good period for Europe as its population grew substantially due to technological and agricultural innovations which increased crop yields.

Which of the following is the SEVENTH statement?

  1. AOption (a)

    E

  2. BOption (b)

    B

  3. COption (c)

    F

  4. DOption (d)

    A

  5. EOption (e)

    C

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

A

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 4.

Key Points

  • The first sentence is B as it introduces the topic of History and its division into three categories.
  • D will follow B as D is about the early mediaeval period. There is no sentence about the first category – antiquity.
  • F follows D as it is about the middle mediaeval period – a period directly after the early mediaeval period.
  • Sentence 4 with ‘also’ states another positive factor about the middle mediaeval period – the establishment of feudalism and manorialism.
  • C follows directly after 4 with ‘This period’ which states other positive factors about the middle mediaeval period, namely the birth of universities and the age of reason over faith.
  • E follows C by stating ‘however’ – and goes on to state the negative factors about European society during the late mediaeval period.
  • A concludes the paragraph as it is the only sentence about the early modern period.

The correct order is BDF4CEA.

The SEVENTH statement is A.

IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
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Question 326

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

Below are given some sentences out of which the sentence numbered 4 has been correctly placed. The rest of the sentences A, B, C, D, E, F need to be arranged correctly in order to form a logical order.

A. The early modern period in Europe gave rise to huge technological and cultural developments that completely transformed European society.

B. Historians have divided history into three divisions, namely antiquity, the mediaeval period and the modern period.

C. This period also saw the birth of scholasticism, a philosophy that put reason over faith - and the birth of universities. 4. The middle mediaeval period in Europe also saw the establishment of feudalism and manorialism as kings became the heads of states and succeeded in reducing crime and violence greatly.

D. The early mediaeval period in Europe was characterized by population declines, invasions, mass migrations and the collapse of central authority.

E. However, the late mediaeval period in Europe was marked by famines and plagues which greatly reduced her population.

F. The middle mediaeval period was, however, a good period for Europe as its population grew substantially due to technological and agricultural innovations which increased crop yields.

Which of the following is the SIXTH statement?

  1. AOption (a)

    E

  2. BOption (b)

    D

  3. COption (c)

    C

  4. DOption (d)

    A

  5. EOption (e)

    B

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

E

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 1.

Key Points

  • The first sentence is B as it introduces the topic of History and its division into three categories.
  • D will follow B as D is about the early mediaeval period. There is no sentence about the first category – antiquity.
  • F follows D as it is about the middle mediaeval period – a period directly after the early mediaeval period.
  • Sentence 4 with ‘also’ states another positive factor about the middle mediaeval period – the establishment of feudalism and manorialism.
  • C follows directly after 4 with ‘This period’ which states other positive factors about the middle mediaeval period, namely the birth of universities and the age of reason over faith.
  • E follows C by stating ‘however’ – and goes on to state the negative factors about European society during the late mediaeval period.
  • A concludes the paragraph as it is the only sentence about the early modern period.

The correct order is BDF4CEA.

The SIXTH statement is E.

IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
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Question 327

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

Below are given some sentences out of which the sentence numbered 4 has been correctly placed. The rest of the sentences A, B, C, D, E, F need to be arranged correctly in order to form a logical order.

A. The early modern period in Europe gave rise to huge technological and cultural developments that completely transformed European society.

B. Historians have divided history into three divisions, namely antiquity, the mediaeval period and the modern period.

C. This period also saw the birth of scholasticism, a philosophy that put reason over faith - and the birth of universities. 4. The middle mediaeval period in Europe also saw the establishment of feudalism and manorialism as kings became the heads of states and succeeded in reducing crime and violence greatly.

D. The early mediaeval period in Europe was characterized by population declines, invasions, mass migrations and the collapse of central authority.

E. However, the late mediaeval period in Europe was marked by famines and plagues which greatly reduced her population.

F. The middle mediaeval period was, however, a good period for Europe as its population grew substantially due to technological and agricultural innovations which increased crop yields.

Which of the following is the FIFTH statement?

  1. AOption (a)

    D

  2. BOption (b)

    C

  3. COption (c)

    A

  4. DOption (d)

    F

  5. EOption (e)

    B

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

C

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 2.

Key Points

  • The first sentence is B as it introduces the topic of History and its division into three categories.
  • D will follow B as D is about the early mediaeval period. There is no sentence about the first category – antiquity.
  • F follows D as it is about the middle mediaeval period – a period directly after the early mediaeval period.
  • Sentence 4 with ‘also’ states another positive factor about the middle mediaeval period – the establishment of feudalism and manorialism.
  • C follows directly after 4 with ‘This period’ which states other positive factors about the middle mediaeval period, namely the birth of universities and the age of reason over faith.
  • E follows C by stating ‘however’ – and goes on to state the negative factors about European society during the late mediaeval period.
  • A concludes the paragraph as it is the only sentence about the early modern period.

The correct order is BDF4CEA.

The FIFTH statement is C.

IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
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Question 328

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

Below are given some sentences out of which the sentence numbered 4 has been correctly placed. The rest of the sentences A, B, C, D, E, F need to be arranged correctly in order to form a logical order.

A. The early modern period in Europe gave rise to huge technological and cultural developments that completely transformed European society.

B. Historians have divided history into three divisions, namely antiquity, the mediaeval period and the modern period.

C. This period also saw the birth of scholasticism, a philosophy that put reason over faith - and the birth of universities. 4. The middle mediaeval period in Europe also saw the establishment of feudalism and manorialism as kings became the heads of states and succeeded in reducing crime and violence greatly.

D. The early mediaeval period in Europe was characterized by population declines, invasions, mass migrations and the collapse of central authority.

E. However, the late mediaeval period in Europe was marked by famines and plagues which greatly reduced her population.

F. The middle mediaeval period was, however, a good period for Europe as its population grew substantially due to technological and agricultural innovations which increased crop yields.

Which of the following is the SECOND statement?

  1. AOption (a)

    E

  2. BOption (b)

    C

  3. COption (c)

    D

  4. DOption (d)

    F

  5. EOption (e)

    A

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

D

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 3.

Key Points

  • The first sentence is B as it introduces the topic of History and its division into three categories.
  • D will follow B as D is about the early mediaeval period. There is no sentence about the first category – antiquity.
  • F follows D as it is about the middle mediaeval period – a period directly after the early mediaeval period.
  • Sentence 4 with ‘also’ states another positive factor about the middle mediaeval period – the establishment of feudalism and manorialism.
  • C follows directly after 4 with ‘This period’ which states other positive factors about the middle mediaeval period, namely the birth of universities and the age of reason over faith.
  • E follows C by stating ‘however’ – and goes on to state the negative factors about European society during the late mediaeval period.
  • A concludes the paragraph as it is the only sentence about the early modern period.

The correct order is BDF4CEA.

The SECOND statement is D.

IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
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Question 329

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

Below are given some sentences out of which the sentence numbered 4 has been correctly placed. The rest of the sentences A, B, C, D, E, F need to be arranged correctly in order to form a logical order.

A. The early modern period in Europe gave rise to huge technological and cultural developments that completely transformed European society.

B. Historians have divided history into three divisions, namely antiquity, the mediaeval period and the modern period.

C. This period also saw the birth of scholasticism, a philosophy that put reason over faith - and the birth of universities. 4. The middle mediaeval period in Europe also saw the establishment of feudalism and manorialism as kings became the heads of states and succeeded in reducing crime and violence greatly.

D. The early mediaeval period in Europe was characterized by population declines, invasions, mass migrations and the collapse of central authority.

E. However, the late mediaeval period in Europe was marked by famines and plagues which greatly reduced her population.

F. The middle mediaeval period was, however, a good period for Europe as its population grew substantially due to technological and agricultural innovations which increased crop yields.

Which of the following is the FIRST statement?

  1. AOption (a)

    F

  2. BOption (b)

    D

  3. COption (c)

    E

  4. DOption (d)

    A

  5. EOption (e)

    B

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (e)E.

B

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 5.

Key Points

  • The first sentence is B as it introduces the topic of History and its division into three categories.
  • D will follow B as D is about the early mediaeval period. There is no sentence about the first category – antiquity.
  • F follows D as it is about the middle mediaeval period – a period directly after the early mediaeval period.
  • Sentence 4 with ‘also’ states another positive factor about the middle mediaeval period – the establishment of feudalism and manorialism.
  • C follows directly after 4 with ‘This period’ which states other positive factors about the middle mediaeval period, namely the birth of universities and the age of reason over faith.
  • E follows C by stating ‘however’ – and goes on to state the negative factors about European society during the late mediaeval period.
  • A concludes the paragraph as it is the only sentence about the early modern period.

The correct order is BDF4CEA.

The FIRST statement is B.

IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
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Question 330

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

Direction: Evaluate the following word, accompanied by three sentences containing it. Determine the sentence(s) that accurately convey the meaning of the given word.

Benevolent

A. The benevolent dictator intentionally starved his citizens to maintain control.

B. An anonymous, benevolent donor paid for the children's medical bills.

C. Her benevolent smile made the nervous guests feel immediately welcome.

  1. AOption (a)

    Only B

  2. BOption (b)

    Only A

  3. COption (c)

    Both B & C

  4. DOption (d)

    All A, B & C

  5. EOption (e)

    None of these

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Both B & C

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Option 3) Both B & C.

Key Points

  • The word "Benevolent" means well-meaning and kindly; showing kindness or goodwill. (परोपकारी/दयालु/भलाई करने वाला)
  • Example: The benevolent teacher always helped students who were struggling with their homework.
  • Correct Sentences Explanation:
  • Option B: "An anonymous, benevolent donor paid for the children's medical bills." — Here, benevolent (परोपकारी) is used correctly for someone who performs a kind and helpful act.
  • Option C: "Her benevolent smile made the nervous guests feel immediately welcome." — This also uses benevolent (दयालु) correctly, describing a smile that is kind and welcoming.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Option 3) Both B & C

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Option 1) Only B (केवल B): Incomplete, as option C also uses "benevolent" correctly. (अधूरा विकल्प)
  • Option 2) Only A (केवल A): Sentence A — "The benevolent dictator intentionally starved his citizens to maintain control." — is incorrect, as benevolent means kind and well-meaning, but the action here is cruel. (यह गलत है क्योंकि 'benevolent' का अर्थ है दयालु, जबकि यहाँ क्रूरता दिखाई गई है।)
  • Option 4) All A, B & C (सभी A, B और C): Incorrect, as option A does not fit the meaning of benevolent. (गलत विकल्प)
  • Option 5) None of these (इनमें से कोई नहीं): Incorrect, as options B and C use "benevolent" correctly. (गलत विकल्प)
IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
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Question 331

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

Direction: Evaluate the following word, accompanied by three sentences containing it. Determine the sentence(s) that accurately convey the meaning of the given word.

Alleviate

A. Taking an aspirin can quickly alleviate the symptoms of a mild headache.

B. The manager's rude comments only served to alleviate the tension in the room.

C. The new highway was built to alleviate traffic congestion downtown.

  1. AOption (a)

    Only A

  2. BOption (b)

    Both A & C

  3. COption (c)

    Only B

  4. DOption (d)

    All A, B & C

  5. EOption (e)

    None of these

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Both A & C

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Option 2) Both A & C.

Key Points

  • The word "Alleviate" means to make something less severe, to ease or reduce pain, suffering, or a problem. (कम करना/ह्रास करना/हल्का करना)
  • Example: The doctor prescribed medication to alleviate her chronic back pain.
  • Correct Sentences Explanation:
  • Option A: "Taking an aspirin can quickly alleviate the symptoms of a mild headache." — Here, alleviate (कम करना) is used correctly, as aspirin reduces headache symptoms.
  • Option C: "The new highway was built to alleviate traffic congestion downtown." — This also uses alleviate (हल्का करना) correctly for reducing traffic problems.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Option 2) Both A & C

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Option 1) Only A (केवल A): Incomplete, as option C also uses "alleviate" correctly. (अधूरा विकल्प)
  • Option 3) Only B (केवल B): Sentence B — "The manager's rude comments only served to alleviate the tension in the room." — is incorrect, as rude comments would likely increase, not reduce, tension. (यह गलत है क्योंकि 'alleviate' का अर्थ है कम करना, जबकि यहाँ तनाव बढ़ाने की बात है।)
  • Option 4) All A, B & C (सभी A, B और C): Incorrect, as option B does not fit the meaning of alleviate. (गलत विकल्प)
  • Option 5) None of these (इनमें से कोई नहीं): Incorrect, as options A and C use "alleviate" correctly. (गलत विकल्प)
IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
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Question 332

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

Read the sentence below to find out if there is any error in it. The error, if any, will be in one part of the sentence. The letter of that part is the answer. If there is no error the answer is (5). (Ignore errors in punctuation if any)

The Delhi government has complete (A)/ failed the people of Delhi on all counts, (B)/ with no free power to the farmers in (C)/ the villages located in the national capital. (D)/ No error (E)

  1. AOption (a)

    A

  2. BOption (b)

    B

  3. COption (c)

    C

  4. DOption (d)

    D

  5. EOption (e)

    E

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

A

Why this answer is correct

The Correct answer is option A

Key Points

  • The error in part A of a sentence, the error is in usage 'complete'
  • Here, we need to use the adverb form of 'Complete'
  • Hence we need to replace 'Complete' with 'Completely'

Correct sentence- The Delhi government has completely failed the people of Delhi on all counts, with no free power to the farmers in the villages located in the national capital.

Additional Information

  • Adverbs usually end with 'ly'.
  • If any additional information is given regarding verbs then it is considered as an adverb.
  • In the given sentence the adverb Competely Describes the verb Failed.
IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
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Question 333

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

**Directions: Read the given passage carefully to answer the following questions.

Each question will have five alternatives as its answer. Choose the correct option as your answer.**

In an era dominated by rapid urbanisation and industrialised supply chains, the concept of global food security has evolved far beyond mere crop availability; it now hinges critically on systemic safety, transparency, and nutritional integrity. Modern supermarkets are packed with heavily processed retail goods, yet everyday consumers are increasingly left in the dark. This is largely due to the rise of highly sophisticated, misleading advertisements that intentionally mask synthetic additives and harmful preservatives under the deceptive guise of "all-natural" healthy choices. To combat this growing information asymmetry, a new wave of digital intervention has emerged in the consumer market, primarily driven by mobile applications designed to scan ingredient labels and decode complex chemical compounds for the average shopper.

At the forefront of this modern technological crusade is Dr. Aris Thorne, a food scientist turned entrepreneur, who founded two distinct companies aimed at dismantling corporate opacity and protecting public health. His first venture, PureTrace, was designed as a consumer-centric mobile application that allowed users to scan barcodes to sort out harmful ingredients, hidden allergens, and toxic chemical dyes at the point of sale. While PureTrace successfully empowered the individual shopper, Dr. Thorne quickly realised that addressing the food crisis at the retail end was merely treating the symptom rather than the root cause. This critical realisation set in motion his second, far more ambitious venture: a __________ company named BlueTick.

Unlike PureTrace, which functioned purely as a reactive tool for cautious consumers, BlueTick was established to standardise the quality of food at the agricultural and processing levels, long before the products ever reached retail shelves. BlueTick utilises advanced blockchain ledgers and high-resolution spectrometry to identify chemical contamination, tracking food products from farm to fork. While PureTrace relied heavily on public awareness to pressure profit-driven manufacturers, BlueTick enforces systemic accountability by certifying whole supply chains. This dual-company approach highlights a fundamental truth in modern food safety: public scanning applications mean well and raise vital consumer awareness, but true food security is entirely impossible without institutional mechanisms explicitly telling us exactly where the contamination began. Ultimately, protecting what we eat requires both digital vigilance at the supermarket shelves and strict backend enforcement across global logistics.

According to the passage, what is PureTrace designed to do?

  1. AOption (a)

    Empower food manufacturers to improve food quality

  2. BOption (b)

    Scan ingredient labels to sort out harmful ingredients, hidden allergens, and toxic chemical dyes at the point of sale

  3. COption (c)

    Provide blockchain technology for the agricultural sector

  4. DOption (d)

    Enhance nutritional integrity of retail goods

  5. EOption (e)

    Act as a backend enforcement mechanism across global logistics

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Scan ingredient labels to sort out harmful ingredients, hidden allergens, and toxic chemical dyes at the point of sale

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 2.

 

Key Points

  • According to the second paragraph, PureTrace was established as a consumer-centric mobile application.
  • Its specific function is to allow users to scan barcodes at the point of sale to identify and sort out harmful ingredients, hidden allergens, and toxic chemical dyes.
  • The passage notes that while it empowers individual shoppers, it primarily treats the symptoms of the food crisis at the retail end rather than the root cause.
  • This aligns perfectly with Option 2, which describes these specific functionalities.

Therefore, the correct answer is 2.

 

Answer Context: "His first venture, PureTrace, was designed as a consumer-centric mobile application that allowed users to scan barcodes to sort out harmful ingredients, hidden allergens, and toxic chemical dyes at the point of sale."

 

Additional Information

  • A: "Empower food manufacturers..." – The passage states PureTrace is "consumer-centric," not manufacturer-centric.
  • C: "Provide blockchain technology..." – Blockchain technology and high-resolution spectrometry are features of Dr. Thorne's second company, BlueTick.
  • D: "Enhance nutritional integrity..." – While a general goal, PureTrace is specifically defined as a tool for scanning and sorting ingredients rather than physically altering or enhancing goods.
  • E: "Act as a backend enforcement mechanism..." – The passage explicitly attributes backend enforcement across global logistics to the dual-company approach, specifically the systemic accountability provided by BlueTick.
IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
View full paper

Question 334

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

**Directions: Read the given passage carefully to answer the following questions.

Each question will have five alternatives as its answer. Choose the correct option as your answer.**

In an era dominated by rapid urbanisation and industrialised supply chains, the concept of global food security has evolved far beyond mere crop availability; it now hinges critically on systemic safety, transparency, and nutritional integrity. Modern supermarkets are packed with heavily processed retail goods, yet everyday consumers are increasingly left in the dark. This is largely due to the rise of highly sophisticated, misleading advertisements that intentionally mask synthetic additives and harmful preservatives under the deceptive guise of "all-natural" healthy choices. To combat this growing information asymmetry, a new wave of digital intervention has emerged in the consumer market, primarily driven by mobile applications designed to scan ingredient labels and decode complex chemical compounds for the average shopper.

At the forefront of this modern technological crusade is Dr. Aris Thorne, a food scientist turned entrepreneur, who founded two distinct companies aimed at dismantling corporate opacity and protecting public health. His first venture, PureTrace, was designed as a consumer-centric mobile application that allowed users to scan barcodes to sort out harmful ingredients, hidden allergens, and toxic chemical dyes at the point of sale. While PureTrace successfully empowered the individual shopper, Dr. Thorne quickly realised that addressing the food crisis at the retail end was merely treating the symptom rather than the root cause. This critical realisation set in motion his second, far more ambitious venture: a __________ company named BlueTick.

Unlike PureTrace, which functioned purely as a reactive tool for cautious consumers, BlueTick was established to standardise the quality of food at the agricultural and processing levels, long before the products ever reached retail shelves. BlueTick utilises advanced blockchain ledgers and high-resolution spectrometry to identify chemical contamination, tracking food products from farm to fork. While PureTrace relied heavily on public awareness to pressure profit-driven manufacturers, BlueTick enforces systemic accountability by certifying whole supply chains. This dual-company approach highlights a fundamental truth in modern food safety: public scanning applications mean well and raise vital consumer awareness, but true food security is entirely impossible without institutional mechanisms explicitly telling us exactly where the contamination began. Ultimately, protecting what we eat requires both digital vigilance at the supermarket shelves and strict backend enforcement across global logistics.

Which factor has not been cited as a result of urbanisation and industrialised supply chains in the passage?

  1. AOption (a)

    Decline in crop availability

  2. BOption (b)

    Systemic safety importance

  3. COption (c)

    Need for transparency

  4. DOption (d)

    Nutritional integrity significance

  5. EOption (e)

    Rise of misleading advertisements

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Decline in crop availability

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 1.

 

Key Points

  • The passage states that in the era of rapid urbanisation and industrialised supply chains, food security has evolved "far beyond mere crop availability."
  • While it mentions crop availability as the traditional focus, it does not state that there has been a "decline" in crop availability.
  • The passage explicitly identifies systemic safety, transparency, and nutritional integrity as the new critical hinges of food security due to these modern changes.
  • The rise of misleading advertisements is also cited as a result of the industrialised retail environment and heavily processed goods.

Therefore, the correct answer is 1.

 

Correct Factor: The passage mentions crop availability only to contrast it with new concerns; it never cites a decline in availability as a result of the mentioned processes.

 

Additional Information

  • B: Systemic safety – Cited in the first sentence as a critical factor food security now hinges on.
  • C: Need for transparency – Explicitly mentioned as a requirement for modern global food security.
  • D: Nutritional integrity – Listed alongside safety and transparency as a core evolution of the food security concept.
  • E: Misleading advertisements – Mentioned as a consequence of industrialised supply chains and the proliferation of processed goods in supermarkets.
IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
View full paper

Question 335

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

**Directions: Read the given passage carefully to answer the following questions.

Each question will have five alternatives as its answer. Choose the correct option as your answer.**

In an era dominated by rapid urbanisation and industrialised supply chains, the concept of global food security has evolved far beyond mere crop availability; it now hinges critically on systemic safety, transparency, and nutritional integrity. Modern supermarkets are packed with heavily processed retail goods, yet everyday consumers are increasingly left in the dark. This is largely due to the rise of highly sophisticated, misleading advertisements that intentionally mask synthetic additives and harmful preservatives under the deceptive guise of "all-natural" healthy choices. To combat this growing information asymmetry, a new wave of digital intervention has emerged in the consumer market, primarily driven by mobile applications designed to scan ingredient labels and decode complex chemical compounds for the average shopper.

At the forefront of this modern technological crusade is Dr. Aris Thorne, a food scientist turned entrepreneur, who founded two distinct companies aimed at dismantling corporate opacity and protecting public health. His first venture, PureTrace, was designed as a consumer-centric mobile application that allowed users to scan barcodes to sort out harmful ingredients, hidden allergens, and toxic chemical dyes at the point of sale. While PureTrace successfully empowered the individual shopper, Dr. Thorne quickly realised that addressing the food crisis at the retail end was merely treating the symptom rather than the root cause. This critical realisation set in motion his second, far more ambitious venture: a __________ company named BlueTick.

Unlike PureTrace, which functioned purely as a reactive tool for cautious consumers, BlueTick was established to standardise the quality of food at the agricultural and processing levels, long before the products ever reached retail shelves. BlueTick utilises advanced blockchain ledgers and high-resolution spectrometry to identify chemical contamination, tracking food products from farm to fork. While PureTrace relied heavily on public awareness to pressure profit-driven manufacturers, BlueTick enforces systemic accountability by certifying whole supply chains. This dual-company approach highlights a fundamental truth in modern food safety: public scanning applications mean well and raise vital consumer awareness, but true food security is entirely impossible without institutional mechanisms explicitly telling us exactly where the contamination began. Ultimately, protecting what we eat requires both digital vigilance at the supermarket shelves and strict backend enforcement across global logistics.

Which of the following can be inferred from the passage regarding consumer awareness tools, like PureTrace?

  1. AOption (a)

    They solve the root cause of food contamination issues

  2. BOption (b)

    They primarily rely on institutional mechanisms

  3. COption (c)

    They raise vital consumer awareness but do not enforce accountability at the supply chain level

  4. DOption (d)

    They are used to enhance agricultural practices

  5. EOption (e)

    They exclusively identify chemical contamination in food products

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

They raise vital consumer awareness but do not enforce accountability at the supply chain level

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Option 3'.

 

Key Points

  • Option C: They raise vital consumer awareness but do not enforce accountability at the supply chain level.
  • This can be inferred from the passage. The text states that "public scanning applications mean well and raise vital consumer awareness," but contrasts them with BlueTick, which "enforces systemic accountability by certifying whole supply chains." It explicitly mentions that PureTrace treats the "symptom rather than the root cause."
  • Option A: They solve the root cause of food contamination issues.
  • This cannot be inferred. The passage explicitly states that Dr. Thorne realized PureTrace was "merely treating the symptom rather than the root cause."
  • Option B: They primarily rely on institutional mechanisms.
  • This is incorrect. The passage suggests that while scanning applications raise awareness, "true food security is entirely impossible without institutional mechanisms," implying that these consumer tools (like PureTrace) lack those specific mechanisms.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 3.

 

Additional Information

  • Option D: Incorrect because the passage attributes the standardization of quality at agricultural and processing levels to BlueTick, not consumer awareness tools like PureTrace.
  • Option E: Incorrect because PureTrace identifies "harmful ingredients, hidden allergens, and toxic chemical dyes," not "exclusively" chemical contamination.
IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
View full paper

Question 336

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

**Directions: Read the given passage carefully to answer the following questions.

Each question will have five alternatives as its answer. Choose the correct option as your answer.**

In an era dominated by rapid urbanisation and industrialised supply chains, the concept of global food security has evolved far beyond mere crop availability; it now hinges critically on systemic safety, transparency, and nutritional integrity. Modern supermarkets are packed with heavily processed retail goods, yet everyday consumers are increasingly left in the dark. This is largely due to the rise of highly sophisticated, misleading advertisements that intentionally mask synthetic additives and harmful preservatives under the deceptive guise of "all-natural" healthy choices. To combat this growing information asymmetry, a new wave of digital intervention has emerged in the consumer market, primarily driven by mobile applications designed to scan ingredient labels and decode complex chemical compounds for the average shopper.

At the forefront of this modern technological crusade is Dr. Aris Thorne, a food scientist turned entrepreneur, who founded two distinct companies aimed at dismantling corporate opacity and protecting public health. His first venture, PureTrace, was designed as a consumer-centric mobile application that allowed users to scan barcodes to sort out harmful ingredients, hidden allergens, and toxic chemical dyes at the point of sale. While PureTrace successfully empowered the individual shopper, Dr. Thorne quickly realised that addressing the food crisis at the retail end was merely treating the symptom rather than the root cause. This critical realisation set in motion his second, far more ambitious venture: a __________ company named BlueTick.

Unlike PureTrace, which functioned purely as a reactive tool for cautious consumers, BlueTick was established to standardise the quality of food at the agricultural and processing levels, long before the products ever reached retail shelves. BlueTick utilises advanced blockchain ledgers and high-resolution spectrometry to identify chemical contamination, tracking food products from farm to fork. While PureTrace relied heavily on public awareness to pressure profit-driven manufacturers, BlueTick enforces systemic accountability by certifying whole supply chains. This dual-company approach highlights a fundamental truth in modern food safety: public scanning applications mean well and raise vital consumer awareness, but true food security is entirely impossible without institutional mechanisms explicitly telling us exactly where the contamination began. Ultimately, protecting what we eat requires both digital vigilance at the supermarket shelves and strict backend enforcement across global logistics.

What will fit in the blank taken from the passage: Dr. Aris Thorne's second, far more ambitious venture is a __________ company named BlueTick.

  1. AOption (a)

    marketing

  2. BOption (b)

    logistics

  3. COption (c)

    assure

  4. DOption (d)

    pioneering

  5. EOption (e)

    retail

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

pioneering

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'pioneering'.

 

Key Points

  • The word "pioneering" means being the first to develop or apply new methods, innovative, or leading. (अग्रणी)
  • Dr. Aris Thorne's venture "BlueTick" is described as ambitious, innovative, and leading in its approach in the given passage.
  • The other options: "marketing," "logistics," "assure," and "retail" do not fit the context as appropriately.

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

Complete Sentence: Dr. Aris Thorne's second, far more ambitious venture is a pioneering company named BlueTick.

Additional Information

  • Marketing (विपणन): means activities related to promoting and selling products or services.
  • Logistics (लॉजिस्टिक्स): means the detailed coordination of complex operations involving people, facilities, or supplies.
  • Assure (आश्वासन देना): means to tell someone something positively to dispel any doubts.
  • Retail (खुदरा): means the sale of goods to the public in relatively small quantities.
IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
View full paper

Question 337

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

**Directions: Read the given passage carefully to answer the following questions.

Each question will have five alternatives as its answer. Choose the correct option as your answer.**

In an era dominated by rapid urbanisation and industrialised supply chains, the concept of global food security has evolved far beyond mere crop availability; it now hinges critically on systemic safety, transparency, and nutritional integrity. Modern supermarkets are packed with heavily processed retail goods, yet everyday consumers are increasingly left in the dark. This is largely due to the rise of highly sophisticated, misleading advertisements that intentionally mask synthetic additives and harmful preservatives under the deceptive guise of "all-natural" healthy choices. To combat this growing information asymmetry, a new wave of digital intervention has emerged in the consumer market, primarily driven by mobile applications designed to scan ingredient labels and decode complex chemical compounds for the average shopper.

At the forefront of this modern technological crusade is Dr. Aris Thorne, a food scientist turned entrepreneur, who founded two distinct companies aimed at dismantling corporate opacity and protecting public health. His first venture, PureTrace, was designed as a consumer-centric mobile application that allowed users to scan barcodes to sort out harmful ingredients, hidden allergens, and toxic chemical dyes at the point of sale. While PureTrace successfully empowered the individual shopper, Dr. Thorne quickly realised that addressing the food crisis at the retail end was merely treating the symptom rather than the root cause. This critical realisation set in motion his second, far more ambitious venture: a __________ company named BlueTick.

Unlike PureTrace, which functioned purely as a reactive tool for cautious consumers, BlueTick was established to standardise the quality of food at the agricultural and processing levels, long before the products ever reached retail shelves. BlueTick utilises advanced blockchain ledgers and high-resolution spectrometry to identify chemical contamination, tracking food products from farm to fork. While PureTrace relied heavily on public awareness to pressure profit-driven manufacturers, BlueTick enforces systemic accountability by certifying whole supply chains. This dual-company approach highlights a fundamental truth in modern food safety: public scanning applications mean well and raise vital consumer awareness, but true food security is entirely impossible without institutional mechanisms explicitly telling us exactly where the contamination began. Ultimately, protecting what we eat requires both digital vigilance at the supermarket shelves and strict backend enforcement across global logistics.

According to the passage, which of the following statements is correct?

A. PureTrace was designed as a consumer-centric mobile application that allowed users to scan barcodes to identify harmful ingredients at the point of sale.

B. BlueTick was established to function as a reactive tool for cautious consumers at the retail level.

C. The passage suggests that true food security is impossible without institutional mechanisms for backend enforcement.

  1. AOption (a)

    Only A

  2. BOption (b)

    Only B

  3. COption (c)

    Only C

  4. DOption (d)

    A and C

  5. EOption (e)

    B and C

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

A and C

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option D.

 

Key Points

  • Statement A: PureTrace was designed as a consumer-centric mobile application that allowed users to scan barcodes to identify harmful ingredients at the point of sale.
  • This statement is correct as it accurately reflects the description of Dr. Thorne's first venture mentioned in the passage.
  • Statement B: BlueTick was established to function as a reactive tool for cautious consumers at the retail level.
  • This statement is incorrect; the passage states that PureTrace was the reactive tool, whereas BlueTick was established to standardise food quality at the agricultural and processing levels before reaching retail.
  • Statement C: The passage suggests that true food security is impossible without institutional mechanisms for backend enforcement.
  • This statement is correct as it aligns with the passage's concluding argument that digital vigilance must be paired with strict backend enforcement across global logistics.
  • Hence, statements A and C are identified as correct in the context of the provided passage.

Therefore, the correct answer is: ‘A and C’.

IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
View full paper

Question 338

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

**Directions: Read the given passage carefully to answer the following questions.

Each question will have five alternatives as its answer. Choose the correct option as your answer.**

In an era dominated by rapid urbanisation and industrialised supply chains, the concept of global food security has evolved far beyond mere crop availability; it now hinges critically on systemic safety, transparency, and nutritional integrity. Modern supermarkets are packed with heavily processed retail goods, yet everyday consumers are increasingly left in the dark. This is largely due to the rise of highly sophisticated, misleading advertisements that intentionally mask synthetic additives and harmful preservatives under the deceptive guise of "all-natural" healthy choices. To combat this growing information asymmetry, a new wave of digital intervention has emerged in the consumer market, primarily driven by mobile applications designed to scan ingredient labels and decode complex chemical compounds for the average shopper.

At the forefront of this modern technological crusade is Dr. Aris Thorne, a food scientist turned entrepreneur, who founded two distinct companies aimed at dismantling corporate opacity and protecting public health. His first venture, PureTrace, was designed as a consumer-centric mobile application that allowed users to scan barcodes to sort out harmful ingredients, hidden allergens, and toxic chemical dyes at the point of sale. While PureTrace successfully empowered the individual shopper, Dr. Thorne quickly realised that addressing the food crisis at the retail end was merely treating the symptom rather than the root cause. This critical realisation set in motion his second, far more ambitious venture: a __________ company named BlueTick.

Unlike PureTrace, which functioned purely as a reactive tool for cautious consumers, BlueTick was established to standardise the quality of food at the agricultural and processing levels, long before the products ever reached retail shelves. BlueTick utilises advanced blockchain ledgers and high-resolution spectrometry to identify chemical contamination, tracking food products from farm to fork. While PureTrace relied heavily on public awareness to pressure profit-driven manufacturers, BlueTick enforces systemic accountability by certifying whole supply chains. This dual-company approach highlights a fundamental truth in modern food safety: public scanning applications mean well and raise vital consumer awareness, but true food security is entirely impossible without institutional mechanisms explicitly telling us exactly where the contamination began. Ultimately, protecting what we eat requires both digital vigilance at the supermarket shelves and strict backend enforcement across global logistics.

Which of the following words is similar in meaning to "set" in the context of the passage?

  1. AOption (a)

    fix

  2. BOption (b)

    arrangement

  3. COption (c)

    intention

  4. DOption (d)

    determined

  5. EOption (e)

    group

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

determined

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Option 4 i.e., 'determined'.

Key Points

  • The word "set" in the context of "set in motion" means to initiate or start something (शुरू करना).
  • Example: The new policy set in motion a series of changes within the company.
  • "Determined" refers to having made a firm decision and being resolved not to change it; in this context, it means initiating something decisively. (दृढ़ निश्चयी)
  • Example: She was determined to succeed in her new business venture.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Option 4 i.e., 'determined'.

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Fix (ठीक करना): To repair or correct something.
  • Example: He fixed the leaking faucet in the kitchen.
  • Arrangement (व्यवस्था): The action, process, or result of arranging or being arranged.
  • Example: The flowers were placed in an elegant arrangement on the table.
  • Intention (इरादा): A thing intended; an aim or plan.
  • Example: Her intention was to improve the quality of education at the school.
  • Group (समूह): A number of people or things that are located, gathered, or classed together.
  • Example: The tourists were guided through the museum in small groups.
IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
View full paper

Question 339

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

**Directions: Read the given passage carefully to answer the following questions.

Each question will have five alternatives as its answer. Choose the correct option as your answer.**

In an era dominated by rapid urbanisation and industrialised supply chains, the concept of global food security has evolved far beyond mere crop availability; it now hinges critically on systemic safety, transparency, and nutritional integrity. Modern supermarkets are packed with heavily processed retail goods, yet everyday consumers are increasingly left in the dark. This is largely due to the rise of highly sophisticated, misleading advertisements that intentionally mask synthetic additives and harmful preservatives under the deceptive guise of "all-natural" healthy choices. To combat this growing information asymmetry, a new wave of digital intervention has emerged in the consumer market, primarily driven by mobile applications designed to scan ingredient labels and decode complex chemical compounds for the average shopper.

At the forefront of this modern technological crusade is Dr. Aris Thorne, a food scientist turned entrepreneur, who founded two distinct companies aimed at dismantling corporate opacity and protecting public health. His first venture, PureTrace, was designed as a consumer-centric mobile application that allowed users to scan barcodes to sort out harmful ingredients, hidden allergens, and toxic chemical dyes at the point of sale. While PureTrace successfully empowered the individual shopper, Dr. Thorne quickly realised that addressing the food crisis at the retail end was merely treating the symptom rather than the root cause. This critical realisation set in motion his second, far more ambitious venture: a __________ company named BlueTick.

Unlike PureTrace, which functioned purely as a reactive tool for cautious consumers, BlueTick was established to standardise the quality of food at the agricultural and processing levels, long before the products ever reached retail shelves. BlueTick utilises advanced blockchain ledgers and high-resolution spectrometry to identify chemical contamination, tracking food products from farm to fork. While PureTrace relied heavily on public awareness to pressure profit-driven manufacturers, BlueTick enforces systemic accountability by certifying whole supply chains. This dual-company approach highlights a fundamental truth in modern food safety: public scanning applications mean well and raise vital consumer awareness, but true food security is entirely impossible without institutional mechanisms explicitly telling us exactly where the contamination began. Ultimately, protecting what we eat requires both digital vigilance at the supermarket shelves and strict backend enforcement across global logistics.

Which of the following words is similar in meaning to "mean" in the context of the passage?

  1. AOption (a)

    signify

  2. BOption (b)

    average

  3. COption (c)

    method

  4. DOption (d)

    stingy

  5. EOption (e)

    intention

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

signify

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Option 1 i.e., 'signify'.

Key Points

  • The word "mean" in the context of the passage refers to something that signifies or indicates a particular sense. (अर्थ रखना)
  • Example: The red light means that you must stop.
  • "Signify" means to be an indication of or to convey a meaning. (संकेत करना)
  • Example: A nod can signify agreement or acknowledgement.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Option 1 i.e., 'signify'.

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Average (औसत): The result obtained by adding several quantities together and then dividing this total by the number of quantities.
  • Example: The average score of the class was 75%.
  • Method (विधि): A particular procedure for accomplishing or approaching something.
  • Example: She discovered a new method for solving the puzzle.
  • Stingy (कंजूस): Unwilling to give or spend; ungenerous.
  • Example: The wealthy man was known for being stingy with his money.
  • Intention (इरादा): A thing intended; an aim or plan.
  • Example: Her intention was to improve the quality of education at the school.
IBPS PO Prelims Memory Based Paper (Held On: 24 August 2025 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English Language
View full paper

Question 340

IBPS Probationary Officer (PO) 2025• English Language• English Language

**Directions: Read the given passage carefully to answer the following questions.

Each question will have five alternatives as its answer. Choose the correct option as your answer.**

In an era dominated by rapid urbanisation and industrialised supply chains, the concept of global food security has evolved far beyond mere crop availability; it now hinges critically on systemic safety, transparency, and nutritional integrity. Modern supermarkets are packed with heavily processed retail goods, yet everyday consumers are increasingly left in the dark. This is largely due to the rise of highly sophisticated, misleading advertisements that intentionally mask synthetic additives and harmful preservatives under the deceptive guise of "all-natural" healthy choices. To combat this growing information asymmetry, a new wave of digital intervention has emerged in the consumer market, primarily driven by mobile applications designed to scan ingredient labels and decode complex chemical compounds for the average shopper.

At the forefront of this modern technological crusade is Dr. Aris Thorne, a food scientist turned entrepreneur, who founded two distinct companies aimed at dismantling corporate opacity and protecting public health. His first venture, PureTrace, was designed as a consumer-centric mobile application that allowed users to scan barcodes to sort out harmful ingredients, hidden allergens, and toxic chemical dyes at the point of sale. While PureTrace successfully empowered the individual shopper, Dr. Thorne quickly realised that addressing the food crisis at the retail end was merely treating the symptom rather than the root cause. This critical realisation set in motion his second, far more ambitious venture: a __________ company named BlueTick.

Unlike PureTrace, which functioned purely as a reactive tool for cautious consumers, BlueTick was established to standardise the quality of food at the agricultural and processing levels, long before the products ever reached retail shelves. BlueTick utilises advanced blockchain ledgers and high-resolution spectrometry to identify chemical contamination, tracking food products from farm to fork. While PureTrace relied heavily on public awareness to pressure profit-driven manufacturers, BlueTick enforces systemic accountability by certifying whole supply chains. This dual-company approach highlights a fundamental truth in modern food safety: public scanning applications mean well and raise vital consumer awareness, but true food security is entirely impossible without institutional mechanisms explicitly telling us exactly where the contamination began. Ultimately, protecting what we eat requires both digital vigilance at the supermarket shelves and strict backend enforcement across global logistics.

Which of the following words is opposite in meaning to "telling" in the context of the passage?

  1. AOption (a)

    significant

  2. BOption (b)

    irrelevant

  3. COption (c)

    revealing

  4. DOption (d)

    compelling

  5. EOption (e)

    articulate

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

irrelevant

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 2 i.e., Irrelevant.

Key Points

  • The word "telling", when used as an adjective, means having a striking or revealing effect; it refers to something that is significant or carries great weight in conveying a message. (प्रभावशाली/महत्वपूर्ण)
  • Example: The most telling evidence in the trial was the security footage that placed the suspect at the scene.
  • "Irrelevant" refers to something that is not connected with or relevant to the matter at hand; it lacks significance or importance in a particular context, making it the opposite of something that is telling. (अप्रासंगिक)
  • Example: The lawyer's questions were deemed irrelevant to the case and were dismissed by the judge.
  • Hence, we can infer that the opposite of 'telling' is 'irrelevant'.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Irrelevant.

Additional Information

Here are the other options explained along with their Hindi meanings and example sentences:

  • Significant (महत्वपूर्ण): Sufficiently great or important to be worthy of attention; noteworthy.
  • Example: The discovery of the new vaccine is a significant breakthrough in medical history.
  • Revealing (प्रकट करने वाला): Making interesting or significant information known, especially about someone's character.
  • Example: The documentary provided a revealing look at the private life of the famous actor.
  • Compelling (सम्मोहक/बाध्यकारी): Evoking interest, attention, or admiration in a powerfully irresistible way.
  • Example: The witness gave a compelling account of the events that convinced the entire jury.
  • Articulate (सुस्पष्ट): Having or showing the ability to speak fluently and coherently.
  • Example: She is an articulate speaker who can explain complex ideas very clearly.

How should I prepare for English Comprehension in IBPS Probationary Officer (PO)?

Solving previous year questions by topic helps identify recurring concepts, question patterns, and frequently asked sub-topics. Attempt each question, review the step-by-step explanation, and note down key formulas or facts for quick revision before the exam.