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English Comprehension PYQs

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

1250 Total Questions38 Official PapersYears: 2018–2025Search in English Comprehension
Showing questions 1001–1020 of 1250Page 51 of 63
SBI Clerk Mains Memory Based Paper (Held On: 1 Oct 2021 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General English
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Question 1001

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Direction: Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Certain words are printed in bold to help you locate them while answering some of these.

The latest GDP growth data released by the Central Statistics Office show that India's economy expanded by 7.9 per cent in the three months ended March, a sharp acceleration from the marginally downsized 7.2 per cent achieved in the preceding quarter. Significantly, that this growth has been achieved despite a prolonged and widespread drought, which would certainly have dampened rural demand, is noteworthy. Even if it is assumed that this provisional figure is likely to be revised downward by about 10 basis points, in line with the revisions for recent quarters, the number would still end up keeping India at the top of the heap among the world's fastest-growing major economies. The result of the strong fiscal fourth-quarter performance is that growth for the full year was lifted to 7.6 per cent, from 7.2 per cent in 2014-15. And the wind in the sails was clearly the robust private consumption expenditure, which increased 7.4 per cent last fiscal compared to 6.2 per cent the year earlier. But then, different statistics offer different perspectives and some of the other data released by the CSO paint a more modest picture of the economy. Gross Value Added at basic prices provisionally grew 7.2 per cent for the full year, barely nudging up from the 7.1 per cent pace posted in 2014-15, and slower than the Reserve Bank of India's projection for 7.4 per cent growth. The GVA figure is significant because it strips the impact that taxes and subsidies have on the overall GDP number. Thus a substantial 5.6 per cent contraction in the amount the government spent on subsidies helped inflate GDP and helped in extending the pace of growth.

The outlook for the current quarter and the rest of this year may then hinge a lot on this year's monsoon: firstly, in terms of the volume of rainfall, and then critically in its geographical and seasonal distribution. Heavy rains in areas that faced flooding last year or with crops standing in the fields ready for harvest can do more damage to the rural economy than help provide the widely expected demand fillip. And with the CSO data revealing private sector investment having slowed and showing barely any signs of revival, the onus of providing some investment stimulus may rest squarely with the government – through increased public expenditure outlays. RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan also has his task cut out as he is to present the bi-monthly monetary policy statement on June 7. Given the growth data, the forecast for a normal monsoon, and the global uncertainties, he would be justified if he opts to hold interest rates and wait and watch instead.

Which of the following statements can be inferred as TRUE according to the passage given above?

  1. AOption (a)

    RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan also has his task cut out as he is to present the bi-monthly monetary policy statement in June end

  2. BOption (b)

    Heavy rains in areas that faced flooding last year or with crops standing in the fields ready for harvest can do more damage to the rural economy than help provide the widely expected demand fillip

  3. COption (c)

    Different statistics offer different perspectives, and some of the other data released by the CSO paint a more modest picture of the economy

  4. DOption (d)

    Both (2) and (3)

  5. EOption (e)

    Both (1) and (2)

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Both (2) and (3)

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Both (2) and (3).

Key Points

The given statements can be inferred from the passage:

  • Option 2- Heavy rains in areas that faced flooding last year or with crops standing in the fields ready for harvest can do more damage to the rural economy than help provide the widely expected demand fillip​: 
  • ' Heavy rains in areas that faced flooding last year or with crops standing in the fields ready for harvest can do more damage to the rural economy than help provide the widely expected demand fillip'.
  • Option 3- Different statistics offer different perspectives, and some of the other data released by the CSO paint a more modest picture of the economy:
  • ​ ' But then, different statistics offer different perspectives, and some of the other data released by the CSO paint a more modest picture of the economy'.

Important Points

  • Option 1​: RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan also has his task cut out as he is to present the bi-monthly monetary policy statement on June end
  • In the line, there is a different date than that mentioned in the passage- ​RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan also has his task cut out as he is to present the bi-monthly monetary policy statement on June 7 (which is clearly not the June end, rather it is June starting.)

Additional Information

  • Modest: unassuming in the estimation of one's abilities or achievements
  • He's very modest about his achievements.
  • Fillip: something that causes a sudden improvement
  • The news gave the stock market a big fillip.
SBI Clerk Mains Memory Based Paper (Held On: 1 Oct 2021 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General English
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Question 1002

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Direction: Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Certain words are printed in bold to help you locate them while answering some of these.

The latest GDP growth data released by the Central Statistics Office show that India's economy expanded by 7.9 per cent in the three months ended March, a sharp acceleration from the marginally downsized 7.2 per cent achieved in the preceding quarter. Significantly, that this growth has been achieved despite a prolonged and widespread drought, which would certainly have dampened rural demand, is noteworthy. Even if it is assumed that this provisional figure is likely to be revised downward by about 10 basis points, in line with the revisions for recent quarters, the number would still end up keeping India at the top of the heap among the world's fastest-growing major economies. The result of the strong fiscal fourth-quarter performance is that growth for the full year was lifted to 7.6 per cent, from 7.2 per cent in 2014-15. And the wind in the sails was clearly the robust private consumption expenditure, which increased 7.4 per cent last fiscal compared to 6.2 per cent the year earlier. But then, different statistics offer different perspectives and some of the other data released by the CSO paint a more modest picture of the economy. Gross Value Added at basic prices provisionally grew 7.2 per cent for the full year, barely nudging up from the 7.1 per cent pace posted in 2014-15, and slower than the Reserve Bank of India's projection for 7.4 per cent growth. The GVA figure is significant because it strips the impact that taxes and subsidies have on the overall GDP number. Thus a substantial 5.6 per cent contraction in the amount the government spent on subsidies helped inflate GDP and helped in extending the pace of growth.

The outlook for the current quarter and the rest of this year may then hinge a lot on this year's monsoon: firstly, in terms of the volume of rainfall, and then critically in its geographical and seasonal distribution. Heavy rains in areas that faced flooding last year or with crops standing in the fields ready for harvest can do more damage to the rural economy than help provide the widely expected demand fillip. And with the CSO data revealing private sector investment having slowed and showing barely any signs of revival, the onus of providing some investment stimulus may rest squarely with the government – through increased public expenditure outlays. RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan also has his task cut out as he is to present the bi-monthly monetary policy statement on June 7. Given the growth data, the forecast for a normal monsoon, and the global uncertainties, he would be justified if he opts to hold interest rates and wait and watch instead.

What was the result of the strong fiscal fourth-quarter performance?

  1. AOption (a)

    India's economy expanded by 7.5 per cent in the three months

  2. BOption (b)

    The government spent on subsidies helped inflate GDP, and by extension the pace of growth

  3. COption (c)

    Growth for the full year was lifted to 7.6 per cent, from 7.2 per cent in 2014-15

  4. DOption (d)

    India's economy expanded by 7.9 per cent in the three months

  5. EOption (e)

    None of these

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Growth for the full year was lifted to 7.6 per cent, from 7.2 per cent in 2014-15

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Growth for the full year was lifted to 7.6 per cent, from 7.2 per cent in 2014-15.

Key Points

  • The given statements can be inferred from this line given in the passage- 'The result of the strong fiscal fourth-quarter performance is that growth for the full year was lifted to 7.6 per cent, from 7.2 per cent in 2014-15.'

Thus, it can be concluded that as a result of strong fiscal fourth-quarter performance, growth was lifted t**o 7.6 per cent, from 7.2 per cent in 2014-15.

Additional Information

  • Inflate: to increase the value or price of something, or to become more valuable or expensive
  • People who bought homes years ago have seen the values inflate and property taxes rise with the inflation.​
  • Pace: the speed at which someone or something moves, or with which something happens or changes
  • I don't like the pace of modern life.
SBI Clerk Mains Memory Based Paper (Held On: 1 Oct 2021 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General English
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Question 1003

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Direction: Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Certain words are printed in bold to help you locate them while answering some of these.

The latest GDP growth data released by the Central Statistics Office show that India's economy expanded by 7.9 per cent in the three months ended March, a sharp acceleration from the marginally downsized 7.2 per cent achieved in the preceding quarter. Significantly, that this growth has been achieved despite a prolonged and widespread drought, which would certainly have dampened rural demand, is noteworthy. Even if it is assumed that this provisional figure is likely to be revised downward by about 10 basis points, in line with the revisions for recent quarters, the number would still end up keeping India at the top of the heap among the world's fastest-growing major economies. The result of the strong fiscal fourth-quarter performance is that growth for the full year was lifted to 7.6 per cent, from 7.2 per cent in 2014-15. And the wind in the sails was clearly the robust private consumption expenditure, which increased 7.4 per cent last fiscal compared to 6.2 per cent the year earlier. But then, different statistics offer different perspectives and some of the other data released by the CSO paint a more modest picture of the economy. Gross Value Added at basic prices provisionally grew 7.2 per cent for the full year, barely nudging up from the 7.1 per cent pace posted in 2014-15, and slower than the Reserve Bank of India's projection for 7.4 per cent growth. The GVA figure is significant because it strips the impact that taxes and subsidies have on the overall GDP number. Thus a substantial 5.6 per cent contraction in the amount the government spent on subsidies helped inflate GDP and helped in extending the pace of growth.

The outlook for the current quarter and the rest of this year may then hinge a lot on this year's monsoon: firstly, in terms of the volume of rainfall, and then critically in its geographical and seasonal distribution. Heavy rains in areas that faced flooding last year or with crops standing in the fields ready for harvest can do more damage to the rural economy than help provide the widely expected demand fillip. And with the CSO data revealing private sector investment having slowed and showing barely any signs of revival, the onus of providing some investment stimulus may rest squarely with the government – through increased public expenditure outlays. RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan also has his task cut out as he is to present the bi-monthly monetary policy statement on June 7. Given the growth data, the forecast for a normal monsoon, and the global uncertainties, he would be justified if he opts to hold interest rates and wait and watch instead.

According to the author, why the GVA figure is significant?

  1. AOption (a)

    Because with the CSO data revealing private sector investment having slowed and showing barely any signs of revival

  2. BOption (b)

    Because the wind in the sails was clearly the robust private consumption expenditure, which increased 7.4 per cent last fiscal compared with 6.2 per cent the year earlier

  3. COption (c)

    As given the growth data, the forecast for a normal monsoon, and the global uncertainties, he would be justified if he opts to hold interest rates and wait and watch instead

  4. DOption (d)

    Because it strips the impact that taxes and subsidies have on the overall GDP number

  5. EOption (e)

    None of these

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Because it strips the impact that taxes and subsidies have on the overall GDP number

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Because it strips the impact that taxes and subsidies have on the overall GDP number.

Key Points

  • The given statements can be inferred from the last lines of the first paragraph- ' The GVA figure is significant because it strips the impact that taxes and subsidies have on the overall GDP number.'

Important Points

All the other options are stated in the passage but they do not tell us about the significance of GVA.

Additional Information

  • Barely: by the smallest amount; only just
  • There was barely enough room for the two of them.
  • Strip: to remove, pull, or tear the covering or outer layer from something
  • We need to strip the wallpaper off the walls first.
SBI Clerk Mains Memory Based Paper (Held On: 1 Oct 2021 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General English
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Question 1004

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Direction: Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Certain words are printed in bold to help you locate them while answering some of these.

The latest GDP growth data released by the Central Statistics Office show that India's economy expanded by 7.9 per cent in the three months ended March, a sharp acceleration from the marginally downsized 7.2 per cent achieved in the preceding quarter. Significantly, that this growth has been achieved despite a prolonged and widespread drought, which would certainly have dampened rural demand, is noteworthy. Even if it is assumed that this provisional figure is likely to be revised downward by about 10 basis points, in line with the revisions for recent quarters, the number would still end up keeping India at the top of the heap among the world's fastest-growing major economies. The result of the strong fiscal fourth-quarter performance is that growth for the full year was lifted to 7.6 per cent, from 7.2 per cent in 2014-15. And the wind in the sails was clearly the robust private consumption expenditure, which increased 7.4 per cent last fiscal compared to 6.2 per cent the year earlier. But then, different statistics offer different perspectives and some of the other data released by the CSO paint a more modest picture of the economy. Gross Value Added at basic prices provisionally grew 7.2 per cent for the full year, barely nudging up from the 7.1 per cent pace posted in 2014-15, and slower than the Reserve Bank of India's projection for 7.4 per cent growth. The GVA figure is significant because it strips the impact that taxes and subsidies have on the overall GDP number. Thus a substantial 5.6 per cent contraction in the amount the government spent on subsidies helped inflate GDP and helped in extending the pace of growth.

The outlook for the current quarter and the rest of this year may then hinge a lot on this year's monsoon: firstly, in terms of the volume of rainfall, and then critically in its geographical and seasonal distribution. Heavy rains in areas that faced flooding last year or with crops standing in the fields ready for harvest can do more damage to the rural economy than help provide the widely expected demand fillip. And with the CSO data revealing private sector investment having slowed and showing barely any signs of revival, the onus of providing some investment stimulus may rest squarely with the government – through increased public expenditure outlays. RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan also has his task cut out as he is to present the bi-monthly monetary policy statement on June 7. Given the growth data, the forecast for a normal monsoon, and the global uncertainties, he would be justified if he opts to hold interest rates and wait and watch instead.

Which of the following statement(s) can not be inferred as TRUE according to the passage?

  1. AOption (a)

    The GVA figure is significant because it strips the impact that taxes and subsidies have on the overall GDP number

  2. BOption (b)

    A substantial 5.6 percent contraction in the amount the government spent on subsidies helped inflate GDP and by extension the pace of growth

  3. COption (c)

    In line with the revisions for recent quarters, the number would still end up keeping India at the top of the heap among the world's fastest-growing major economies

  4. DOption (d)

    That this growth has been achieved despite a prolonged and widespread drought, which would not certainly have dampened rural demand, is noteworthy

  5. EOption (e)

    All of the above

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

That this growth has been achieved despite a prolonged and widespread drought, which would not certainly have dampened rural demand, is noteworthy

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is That this growth has been achieved despite a prolonged and widespread drought, which would not certainly have dampened rural demand, is noteworthy.

Key Points

  • The given statement cannot be inferred from anywhere in the passage and is in contrast with the discussion in the beginning of the first paragraph.
  • Thus, it fits best as the answer.

Important Points

All the other options are stated in the passage.

Additional Information

  • Dampened: make less strong or intense
  • The dampened mood was still in her voice.
  • Noteworthy: worth paying attention to; interesting or significant
  • ​The town-house is also a noteworthy building and contains large and important archives.
SBI Clerk Mains Memory Based Paper (Held On: 1 Oct 2021 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General English
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Question 1005

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Direction: Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Certain words are printed in bold to help you locate them while answering some of these.

The latest GDP growth data released by the Central Statistics Office show that India's economy expanded by 7.9 per cent in the three months ended March, a sharp acceleration from the marginally downsized 7.2 per cent achieved in the preceding quarter. Significantly, that this growth has been achieved despite a prolonged and widespread drought, which would certainly have dampened rural demand, is noteworthy. Even if it is assumed that this provisional figure is likely to be revised downward by about 10 basis points, in line with the revisions for recent quarters, the number would still end up keeping India at the top of the heap among the world's fastest-growing major economies. The result of the strong fiscal fourth-quarter performance is that growth for the full year was lifted to 7.6 per cent, from 7.2 per cent in 2014-15. And the wind in the sails was clearly the robust private consumption expenditure, which increased 7.4 per cent last fiscal compared to 6.2 per cent the year earlier. But then, different statistics offer different perspectives and some of the other data released by the CSO paint a more modest picture of the economy. Gross Value Added at basic prices provisionally grew 7.2 per cent for the full year, barely nudging up from the 7.1 per cent pace posted in 2014-15, and slower than the Reserve Bank of India's projection for 7.4 per cent growth. The GVA figure is significant because it strips the impact that taxes and subsidies have on the overall GDP number. Thus a substantial 5.6 per cent contraction in the amount the government spent on subsidies helped inflate GDP and helped in extending the pace of growth.

The outlook for the current quarter and the rest of this year may then hinge a lot on this year's monsoon: firstly, in terms of the volume of rainfall, and then critically in its geographical and seasonal distribution. Heavy rains in areas that faced flooding last year or with crops standing in the fields ready for harvest can do more damage to the rural economy than help provide the widely expected demand fillip. And with the CSO data revealing private sector investment having slowed and showing barely any signs of revival, the onus of providing some investment stimulus may rest squarely with the government – through increased public expenditure outlays. RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan also has his task cut out as he is to present the bi-monthly monetary policy statement on June 7. Given the growth data, the forecast for a normal monsoon, and the global uncertainties, he would be justified if he opts to hold interest rates and wait and watch instead.

Choose the word which is most nearly the OPPOSITE in meaning to the word 'prolonged' as highlighted in the passage.

  1. AOption (a)

    Lengthy

  2. BOption (b)

    Timid

  3. COption (c)

    Prominent

  4. DOption (d)

    Moderate

  5. EOption (e)

    Brief

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (e)E.

Brief

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Brief.

Key Points

  • Let us see the meaning of "Prolonged".
  • Prolonged: continuing for a long time or longer than usual; lengthy
  • Let us see the meaning of "Brief".
  • Brief: marked by the use of few words to convey much information or meaning
  • Hence, the antonym for "Prolonged" is **"**Brief".
  • Let’s see the meaning of other given options.
WordsMeanings
Lengthycontinuing for a long time
Timidshy and nervous; without much confidence
Prominentvery well known and important
Moderateaverage in amount, intensity, quality, or degree

Additional Information

  • The words lengthy, overlong, protracted and everlasting are synonyms or near- synonyms of the word ‘Prolonged’.
  • Example of ‘Lengthy’ in a sentence:
  • ​Many airline passengers face lengthy delays because of the strike.
  • ​Example of ‘Overlong’ in a sentence:​​
  • The last song on the album is brilliantly performed but overlong.
  • ​Example of ‘Protracted’ in a sentence:​​
  • ​Their protracted legal battle may soon be resolved.
  • ​Example of ‘Everlasting’ in a sentence:​​​
  • Their contributions to science have earned them an everlasting place in history.
SBI Clerk Mains Memory Based Paper (Held On: 1 Oct 2021 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General English
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Question 1006

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Direction: Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Certain words are printed in bold to help you locate them while answering some of these.

The latest GDP growth data released by the Central Statistics Office show that India's economy expanded by 7.9 per cent in the three months ended March, a sharp acceleration from the marginally downsized 7.2 per cent achieved in the preceding quarter. Significantly, that this growth has been achieved despite a prolonged and widespread drought, which would certainly have dampened rural demand, is noteworthy. Even if it is assumed that this provisional figure is likely to be revised downward by about 10 basis points, in line with the revisions for recent quarters, the number would still end up keeping India at the top of the heap among the world's fastest-growing major economies. The result of the strong fiscal fourth-quarter performance is that growth for the full year was lifted to 7.6 per cent, from 7.2 per cent in 2014-15. And the wind in the sails was clearly the robust private consumption expenditure, which increased 7.4 per cent last fiscal compared to 6.2 per cent the year earlier. But then, different statistics offer different perspectives and some of the other data released by the CSO paint a more modest picture of the economy. Gross Value Added at basic prices provisionally grew 7.2 per cent for the full year, barely nudging up from the 7.1 per cent pace posted in 2014-15, and slower than the Reserve Bank of India's projection for 7.4 per cent growth. The GVA figure is significant because it strips the impact that taxes and subsidies have on the overall GDP number. Thus a substantial 5.6 per cent contraction in the amount the government spent on subsidies helped inflate GDP and helped in extending the pace of growth.

The outlook for the current quarter and the rest of this year may then hinge a lot on this year's monsoon: firstly, in terms of the volume of rainfall, and then critically in its geographical and seasonal distribution. Heavy rains in areas that faced flooding last year or with crops standing in the fields ready for harvest can do more damage to the rural economy than help provide the widely expected demand fillip. And with the CSO data revealing private sector investment having slowed and showing barely any signs of revival, the onus of providing some investment stimulus may rest squarely with the government – through increased public expenditure outlays. RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan also has his task cut out as he is to present the bi-monthly monetary policy statement on June 7. Given the growth data, the forecast for a normal monsoon, and the global uncertainties, he would be justified if he opts to hold interest rates and wait and watch instead.

Choose the word which is most nearly the SIMILAR in meaning to the word 'robust' as highlighted in the passage.

  1. AOption (a)

    Quick

  2. BOption (b)

    Sleek

  3. COption (c)

    Vigorous

  4. DOption (d)

    Nasty

  5. EOption (e)

    Offensive

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Vigorous

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Vigorous.

Key Points

  • Let us see the meaning of "Robust".
  • Robust: strong and healthy
  • Let us see the meaning of "Vigorous".
  • Vigorous: strong, healthy, and full of energy
  • Hence, the synonym for "Robust" is **"**Vigorous".
  • Let’s see the meaning of other given options.
WordsMeanings
Quickhappening or done with great speed, or lasting only a           short time
Sleeksmooth, usually curved and shiny, and therefore looking         healthy and attractive
Nastybad or very unpleasant
Offensivecausing someone to feel resentful, upset, or annoyed

Additional Information

  • The words Weak and Frail are antonyms or near- antonyms of the word ‘Robust’.
  • Example of ‘Weak’ in a sentence:
  • ​It's not surprising you feel weak if you haven't eaten properly for days.
  • ​Example of ‘Frail’ in a sentence:​​
  • He’s always in frail health.
SBI Clerk Mains Memory Based Paper (Held On: 1 Oct 2021 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General English
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Question 1007

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Directions

Identify the correct pair of synonyms or antonyms from the given table.

A. ToilD. Industrial
B. MalignE. Sloth
C. KingletF.Vulnerable
  1. AOption (a)

    B-F

  2. BOption (b)

    C-E

  3. COption (c)

    A-F

  4. DOption (d)

    A-E

  5. EOption (e)

    A-D

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

A-E

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is A-E

Key Points

  • Let's see the meanings of the given words-
  • Toil→ is a verb that means 'work extremely hard or incessantly or move slowly and with difficulty'
  • Malign→ is an adjective that means 'evil in nature or effect.'
  • Kinglet→ is a noun that means a minor king'
  • Industrial→ is an adjective that means 'of, used in, or characterized by industry'
  • Sloth→ is a noun that means 'reluctance to work or make an effort; laziness.'
  • Vulnerable→ is an adjective that means 'exposed to the risk of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally.'
  • So according to the meaning of the given words, we can say that 'A-E' is the antonym pair.
  • So the correct answer is 'Option 4.'
SBI Clerk Mains Memory Based Paper (Held On: 1 Oct 2021 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General English
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Question 1008

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Directions

Identify the correct pair of synonyms or antonyms from the given table.

A. SolitudeD. Repel
B. ObstreperousE. Noisy
C. WhimF. Desire
  1. AOption (a)

    C-D

  2. BOption (b)

    A-F

  3. COption (c)

    B-E

  4. DOption (d)

    A-E

  5. EOption (e)

    B-D

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

B-E

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is B-E.

Key Points

  • Let's see the meaning of the given words-
  • Solitude→ is a noun that means 'the state of being alone'
  • Obstreperous→ is an adjective that means 'noisy and difficult to control'
  • Whim→ is a noun that means a sudden desire or change of mind.'
  • Repel→ is a verb that means 'drive or force back or away.'
  • Noisy→ is an that means 'full of or making a lot of noise.'
  • Desire→ is a noun that means a strong feeling of wanting to have something or wishing for something to happen.'
  • According to the meaning of the given words, B-E is the synonyms.
  • So the correct answer is 'B-E'
SBI Clerk Mains Memory Based Paper (Held On: 1 Oct 2021 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General English
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Question 1009

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Directions

Identify the correct pair of synonyms or antonyms from the given table.

A. CiteD. Disagreement
B. DistinctionE. Excited
C. AssentF. Quote
  1. AOption (a)

    A-F

  2. BOption (b)

    C-E

  3. COption (c)

    B-F

  4. DOption (d)

    C-F

  5. EOption (e)

    A-E

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

A-F

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is A-F.

Key Points

  • Let's see the meaning of the given words-
  • Cite→ is a verb that means 'quote as evidence for an argument'
  • Distinction→ a marked difference or contrast.
  • Assent→ is a noun that means 'the expression of approval or agreement.'
  • Disagreement→ is a noun that means 'have a different opinion'
  • Excited→ is a noun that means 'cause to feel very enthusiastic and eager.'
  • Quote→ is a verb that means 'repeat or copy out (a passage from text or speech by another).'
  • According to the meaning of the given words, it is clear that A-F is the synonyms.
  • So the correct answer is 'Option 1'
SBI Clerk Mains Memory Based Paper (Held On: 1 Oct 2021 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·General English
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Question 1010

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Directions

In the following question, a sentence is given with four words marked as (A), (B), (C), and (D). These words may or may not be placed in the correct order. Four options with different arrangements of these words have been provided. Mark the option with the correct arrangement as the answer. If no rearrangement is required, mark option (5) as your answer.

The U.S. has a rich history of shaping or toppling(A) foreign governments and seeking(B) to influence forces made abroad(C) that had an impact(D) on American shores.

  1. AOption (a)

    A-B

  2. BOption (b)

    B-C

  3. COption (c)

    C-D

  4. DOption (d)

    A-D

  5. EOption (e)

    No change required

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (e)E.

No change required

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'No change required.'

Key Points

  • ​ Let's see the meaning of the marked words:-
  • 'Toppling' means to cause a leader of a country, etc. to lose his or her position of power or authority.
  • 'Seeking' means to try to find or get something.
  • 'Abroad' means in or to another country or countries.
  • 'Impact' means an effect or impression.
  • All the marked words are used correctly.

Hence, the correct answer is option 5.

Correct Sentence: The U.S. has a rich history of shaping or toppling foreign governments and seeking to influence forces made abroad that had an impact on American shores.

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Question 1011

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

In the given question, four words are printed in bold and are numbered A, B, C, and D. Of these, the positions of two of these words may be incorrect and need to be exchanged to make the sentence correct. Find the two words which need to be exchanged. In case the given sentence is correct, your answer is (E), i.e., 'No correction required.'

Chelsea's Eden Hazard has revealed his appreciation (A) for Manchester United manager (B) Jose Mourinho and said (C) the Portuguese is the one coach he would like to work (D) with again.

  1. AOption (a)

    Both A-B and C-D

  2. BOption (b)

    Both A-C and B-D

  3. COption (c)

    Both A-D and B-C

  4. DOption (d)

    Only C-D

  5. EOption (e)

    No correction required

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (e)E.

No correction required

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 5) i.e. No correction required.

Key Points

  • The sentence is correct in its present form and there is no requirement of any replacement to be carried out in this statement.

All the bold words are in the right place and no interchanging of the words is required.

  • Appreciation (noun) means to be happy for some or to show recognition and enjoyment of the good qualities of someone or something.
  • Example: I smiled in appreciation.
  • In the given sentence, 'appreciation' has been used correctly with the subject 'Chelsea's Eden Hazard'.
  • The appreciation or recognition is directed at Jose Mourinho, who is the 'manager' of manchester United. So 'manager' has been used correctly.
  • The other words 'said' and 'work' is used correctly in order to depict the subject's desire to work with Manchester United.
  • 'Said' here denotes that the original speech has been repeated or retold by another person.
  • Hence Option 5 is correct.✔️

Correct Sentence: Chelsea's Eden Hazard has revealed his appreciation for Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho and said the Portuguese is the one coach he would like to work with again.✔️

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Question 1012

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

In the given question, four words are printed in bold and are numbered A, B, C, and D. Of these, the positions of two of these words may be incorrect and need to be exchanged to make the sentence correct. Find the two words which need to be exchanged. In case the given sentence is correct, your answer is (E), i.e., 'No correction required.

There is a view among the public that the across (A) of the rupee has been the appreciation (B) of a general result (C) of the dollar depreciation (D) all currencies.

  1. AOption (a)

    Only A-D

  2. BOption (b)

    Both B-C and A-D

  3. COption (c)

    Only B-D

  4. DOption (d)

    Both A-B and C-D

  5. EOption (e)

    The sentence is correct

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Both B-C and A-D

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 2)i.e. Both B-C and A-D.

Key Points

  • The statement is not correct in its present form and it is clear from the first bold word. Therefore, option E can be ruled out easily.❌
  • Appreciation (noun) means an increase in the value of an asset over time. Currency appreciation refers to the increase in the value of one currency relative to another in the foreign exchange markets.
  • Example: Appreciating assets can be real estate, stocks, bonds, and currency.
  • Depreciation (noun) means a reduction in the value of an asset over time, due in particular to wear and tear, a decrease in the value of a currency relative to other currencies.
  • Example: Depreciation leads to losses for non-dollar-based investors.
  • Now, coming to the given options, if we carry out the interchanging of the pair A-D, this will imply something but the statement will not completely make sense with this.
  • But we are certain that our choice should contain the pair A-D. We have to find out another option with this pair and that option is B. And if we also interchange B-C, we shall find the correct sentence, along with interchanging A-D.✔️
  • So, there is no requirement to check the remaining options.
  • This makes option B the correct choice among the given options.✔️

Correct sentence: There is a view among the public that the depreciation of the rupee has been the result of a general appreciation of the dollar across all currencies.✔️

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Question 1013

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

In the following question, a sentence is given with certain words in bold. Choose the pair/s of such words which need to be interchanged so as to make the sentence grammatically correct and meaningful. 

With the virus running (A**) riot** across the Americas and (B) forecasts in Africa the downside risks (C) outweigh the others, the treasury (D) surging (E) eschew the traditional approach of (F) charting a middle path through upside and downside risks.

  1. AOption (a)

    A-C, D-E

  2. BOption (b)

    A-F

  3. COption (c)

    C-E

  4. DOption (d)

    B-D

  5. EOption (e)

    C-F

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

B-D

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is option 4 i.e. B-D.

'Forecasts' is the incorrect form of verb because the sentence starts by 'with running' which means we need to use the continuous form of the verb. Also, 'surging' is contextually incorrect. We need to interchange both these words to make the sentence grammatically correct and meaningful.

All the other words are correctly placed.

Thus, the answer is B-D.

Correct sentence-

With the virus running riot across the Americas and surging in Africa the downside risks outweigh the others. The treasury forecasts eschew the traditional approach of charting a middle path through upside and downside risks.

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Question 1014

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

In the following question, a sentence is given with four words marked as (A), (B), (C) and (D). These words may or may not be placed in the correct order. Four options with different arrangements of these words have been provided. Mark the option with the correct arrangement as the answer. If no rearrangement is required, mark option (5) as your answer.

During the hanging(A), the rope had been strangled(B) on the neck of the supposed(C) “witch” and she was placed(D) to death.

  1. AOption (a)

    C - D

  2. BOption (b)

    B - D

  3. COption (c)

    A - B

  4. DOption (d)

    B - C

  5. EOption (e)

    No arrangements

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

B - D

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is B - D. 

Key Points

Let us look at the given sentence in the following manner: 

  • During the ______(A), the rope had been ______(B) on the neck of the ______(C) “witch” and she was  ______(D) to death.
  • From the below-given table, we get to know the meanings of the words in bold.
  • In (B) strangled on the neck and in (D) placed to death both are incorrect phrases.
  • The sentence tells us the hanging rope constricted the supposed witch's neck and she died.
  • So, B and D should be interchanged to make the sentence correct. 

Therefore the correct sentence is, ***During the hanging, the rope had been placed on the neck of the supposed “witch” and she was strangled to death.***​

Additional Information

To understand which word belongs to which blank we need to know its meaning as enlisted below:

WordsMeanings
hangingto suspend or be suspended from above with the lower part dangling free
placedput in a particular position
supposedgenerally assumed or believed to be the case, but not necessarily so
strangledto squeeze or constrict the neck of (a person or animal), especially so as to cause death
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Question 1015

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

In the following question a part of the sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives to the underlined part, which may improve the sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case no improvement is needed ,choose the option that indicates ‘No improvement’.

Virat Kohli described his 137- run stand with Rohit Sharma in the third ODI as “probably one of the most calculated partnerships, he further said that if dew factor had come into play it will become impossible for the visitors to win the game from there.

  1. AOption (a)

    would  become impossible for the visitors.

  2. BOption (b)

    would have become impossible for the visitors.

  3. COption (c)

    will have been impossible for the visitors.

  4. DOption (d)

    could become impossible for the visitors.

  5. EOption (e)

    No improvement

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

would have become impossible for the visitors.

Why this answer is correct

Correct option: 2) would have become impossible for the visitors, is the most suitable option.

The if-clause uses the past perfect tense then the main clause uses would, could, or might + have + the past participle of a main verb.

                     If + past perfect, Subject + would + have + V3

Let's see the examples given below:

  • We could have had a longer holiday, if we hadn’t spent so much money on the house.
  • If I had known about the exam, I would have paid more attention in class.

 

Hence, the correct sentence will be- Virat Kohli described his 137- run stand with Rohit Sharma in the third ODI as “probably one of the most calculated partnerships, he further said that if dew factor had come into play it would have become impossible for the visitors to win the game from there.

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Question 1016

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Direction: Which of the phrases given below the sentence should replace the word/phrase given in bold in the sentence to make it grammatically correct? If the sentence is correct as it is given and no correction is required, select 'No correction required' as your answer.

This is not the first time the minister's name has came up in this controversial deal.

  1. AOption (a)

    have come up

  2. BOption (b)

    has come up

  3. COption (c)

    have upcoming

  4. DOption (d)

    No correction required

  5. EOption (e)

    None of the above

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

has come up

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'has come up'.

Key Points

  • Present Perfect Tense is used to represent an action or situation that started in the past and continues in the present.
  • The structure of Present Perfect Tense is 'subject + have/has + V3 form of the verb + object'.
  • Examples, 
  • Alex has completed the book thoroughly.
  • She has forgotten her folder.
  • In the given sentence, the use of 'has' is correct as the subject is singular (minister's name).
  • The third form of the verb 'come' is 'come' itself.
  • 'Came' is the second form of the verb 'come'.
  • In the present perfect tense, the third form of the verb needs to be used.
  • According to the given explanation, 'has come up' is the correct usage.
  • Therefore, option 2 is the correct answer.

 

  • In the given sentence, the use of 'has' is correct as the subject is singular (minister's name).
  • 'Come up' is a phrase that means '(of an issue, situation, or problem) occur or present itself, especially unexpectedly.'
  • Eg. "The subject has not yet come up".

Hinglish

  • प्रेजेंट परफेक्ट टेंस का उपयोग किसी क्रिया या स्थिति का प्रतिनिधित्व करने के लिए किया जाता है जो अतीत में शुरू हुई और वर्तमान में जारी है।
  • Present Perfect Tense की संरचना 'subject + have/has + V3 form of verb + object' है।
  • उदाहरण,
  • Alex has completed the book thoroughly.
  • She has forgotten her folder.
  • दिए गए वाक्य में 'has' का प्रयोग सही है क्योंकि विषय एकवचन (minister's name) है।
  • 'Come' क्रिया का तीसरा रूप 'come' ही है।
  • 'Came' क्रिया का दूसरा रूप है।
  • वर्तमान पूर्ण काल ​​(present perfect tense) में, क्रिया के तीसरे रूप का उपयोग करने की आवश्यकता होती है।
  • दी गई व्याख्या के अनुसार, 'has come up' सही प्रयोग है।
  • अतः विकल्प 2 सही उत्तर है।

 

  • दिए गए वाक्य में 'has' का प्रयोग सही है क्योंकि विषय एकवचन (minister's name) है।
  • 'Come up' एक मुहावरा है जिसका अर्थ है '(किसी मुद्दे, स्थिति, या समस्या का) घटित होना या स्वयं उपस्थित होना, विशेष रूप से अप्रत्याशित रूप से।'
  • उदा. "The subject has not yet come up".
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Question 1017

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Direction: A sentence is given below with four words highlighted in bold​. One of these highlighted words may be either wrongly spelt or incorrect in the context of the sentence. Find the word which is wrongly spelt or inappropriate, if any. That word is your answer. If all words are correctly spelt and also appropriate in the context of the sentence, mark 'All correct' as your answer.

Tears roared from my eyes and a piercing pain crept up my throat like a spider.

  1. AOption (a)

    roared

  2. BOption (b)

    piercing

  3. COption (c)

    pain

  4. DOption (d)

    crept

  5. EOption (e)

    All correct

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

roared

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'roared'.

Key Points

  • The given sentence is describing a person's extreme pain, which causes tears to flow from his eyes.
  • The use of the word 'roared' that means '(of a person or crowd) utter a loud, deep, prolonged sound' is wrong in the given sentence as tears cannot make a loud sound.
  • 'roared' should be replaced by the word 'gushed' which means '(of a liquid) flow out of something in a rapid and plentiful stream'.
  • Eg. water gushed out of the washing machine​.
  • Thus, the given sentence means that tears came from the person's eyes and a piercing pain reached up to his throat like a spider.
  • Therefore, option 1 is the correct answer.

Correct Sentence: Tears gushed from my eyes and a piercing pain crept up my throat like a spider.

 

Additional Information

  • Let's learn the meanings of the important words in the given sentence:
  • piercing: (of a feeling) intense, typically in a distressing way.
  • crept: (of a thing) move very slowly and inexorably.
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Question 1018

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Direction: In the given question a sentence is divided into five parts out of which the last part is correct. Out of the remaining four, there are errors in three parts. Choose the part that doesn't have an error. If all the four parts are correct, mark E i.e. All are correct as the answer.

In modern time, they were made fashionable (A) from Hillary Clinton, who displayed a (B) penchant for having wearing them with (C) panache to everything from special  (D) occasions to low-key affairs.

  1. AOption (a)

    In modern time, they were made fashionable

  2. BOption (b)

    from Hillary Clinton, who displayed a

  3. COption (c)

    penchant for having wearing them with

  4. DOption (d)

    panache to everything from special

  5. EOption (e)

    All are correct

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

panache to everything from special

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is panache to everything from special.

Key Points

The part ‘panache to everything from special’ Is grammatically correct.

The corrected form of the other given parts are:

A: In part A ''In modern time, they were made fashionable'' is grammatically incorrect. Here the word time should be replaced with times to rectify the agreement mistake. Thus, the correct part will be "In modern times, they were made fashionable''.

B: In part B ''from Hillary Clinton, who displayed a'' is grammatically incorrect. Here the preposition ''by'' should be used instead of ''from''.Thus, the correct part will be "by Hillary Clinton, who displayed a''.

C: In part C ''penchant for having wearing them with'' is grammatically incorrect. Here 'having' should be removed to make the sentence grammatically correct. Thus, the correct part will be "penchant for wearing them with''.

Therefore, option 4) is the correct answer.

Thus, the correct sentence is: In modern times, they were made fashionable by Hillary Clinton, who displayed a penchant for wearing them with panache to everything from special occasions to low-key affairs.

Additional Information

WordMeaning
penchanta strong or habitual liking for something or tendency to do something
panacheflamboyant confidence of style or manner
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Question 1019

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Select the phrase/connector from the given three options which can be used to form a single sentence from the two sentences given below, implying the same as expressed in the statement sentence. 

The weather forecast predicted heavy snowfall. The whole day was rather sunny and hot.

  1. Consequently
  2. However
  3. Moreover
  1. AOption (a)

    Only 2

  2. BOption (b)

    Only 3

  3. COption (c)

    Only 1

  4. DOption (d)

    1 and 2

  5. EOption (e)

    2 and 3

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Only 2

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Only 2

Key Points

  • A connector is a thing that connects 2 parts of a sentence.
  • In the given sentences, a weather forecast predicts heavy snowfall whereas the day ends up being sunny and warm.
  • So, the connector which can connect these 2 will be 'however' which is used to introduce a statement that is in contrast to the previous statement.
  • The first sentence sets us up to think that the weather will be damp and gloomy while the second sentence contradicts this expectation.
  • So, the correct answer is 'however'.

Thus, the correct sentence will be: 'The weather forecast predicted heavy snowfall however, the whole day was rather sunny and hot'. 

Additional Information

  • The different types of connectors in English are: coordinating, correlative, subordinating, causative, conjunctive adverbs and prepositional phrases, etc.
  • 'However' is a conjunctive connector.
  • 'Consequently' is a causative connector. 
  • Example: The food was spoilt due to the lack of electricity, consequently it had to be thrown away.
  • 'Moreover' is an additive connector. 
  • Example: The house was in the right locality, moreover the price was in Ashley's budget.
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Question 1020

SBI Clerk 2021• General English• General English

Directions

Choose the combination that completes the sentence.**

A. I didn't tell her that he was latei. yetE. a cat
B. I will be going to the marketii. becauseF. Not now, I still have time.
C. I have two goldfishiii. forG. I didn't want to cause her any alarm.
  1. AOption (a)

    B-iii-G

  2. BOption (b)

    C-i-G

  3. COption (c)

    A-ii-G

  4. DOption (d)

    C-iii-E

  5. EOption (e)

    A-iii-G

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

A-ii-G

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'A-ii-G.'

Key Points

  • Let's see the usages of the given connectors-
  • Yet→ used with negative verbs or in questions for talking about something that has not happened but that you expect to happen.
  • Example-
  • He is my worst enemy, and yet, I admire him as the wisest man in the world.
  • Because→ for the reason that.
  • Example-
  • The journey was quite quick because the road was clear.
  • For→ as a conjunction is used to connect two clauses.
  • Example-
  • I told her to leave, for I was very tired.
  • ​​So the correct sentence is→ "I didn't tell her that he was late because I didn't want to cause her any alarm."

How should I prepare for English Comprehension in SBI Clerk?

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.