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Question 341

DSSSB Assistant Superintendent 2026• Test of English Language and Comprehension1

What does the proverb 'all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy' mean?

  1. AOption (a)

    Jack is a boring person because he doesn't play.

  2. BOption (b)

    Work is more important than play.

  3. COption (c)

    Boys should play more to remain healthy and active.

  4. DOption (d)

    It's important to have a balance between work and leisure.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

It's important to have a balance between work and leisure.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: It's important to have a balance between work and leisure.

Key Points

  • The proverb 'all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy' means that without time off from work, a person becomes both bored and boring. (बिना मनोरंजन के केवल काम करने से व्यक्ति नीरस हो जाता है)
  • Example: You have been studying for ten hours straight; you should go out for a walk because all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.
  • 'Balance between work and leisure' refers to the practice of giving equal importance to one's professional responsibilities and personal relaxation or hobbies. (कार्य और मनोरंजन के बीच संतुलन)
  • Example: A successful life requires a healthy balance between work and leisure to avoid burnout.
  • Hence, the proverb emphasizes that productivity is hindered if one does not take time for recreation.

Therefore, the correct answer is: It's important to have a balance between work and leisure.

Additional Information

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

  • Jack is a boring person because he doesn't play (जैक एक उबाऊ व्यक्ति है क्योंकि वह खेलता नहीं है): This is a literal and narrow interpretation of the proverb, which uses 'Jack' as a generic name for anyone.
  • Example: The statement that Jack is a boring person because he doesn't play misses the figurative warning of the proverb.
  • Work is more important than play (काम खेल से अधिक महत्वपूर्ण है): This contradicts the essence of the proverb, which advocates for the necessity of play.
  • Example: Thinking that work is more important than play can lead to physical and mental exhaustion.
  • Boys should play more to remain healthy and active (लड़कों को स्वस्थ और सक्रिय रहने के लिए अधिक खेलना चाहिए): This is a partial truth related to physical health but ignores the mental stagnation mentioned in the proverb.
  • Example: While boys should play more to remain healthy, the proverb applies to everyone regardless of gender or age.

Question 342

DSSSB Assistant Superintendent 2026• Test of English Language and Comprehension1

A word segment has been underlined in the given sentence. Select the option that shows the most appropriate one-word substitute for the underlined segment.

The magician kept the audience captivatingly absorbed and interested with his masterly tricks and friendly banter.

  1. AOption (a)

    enthralled

  2. BOption (b)

    inundated

  3. COption (c)

    befogged

  4. DOption (d)

    stalled

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

enthralled

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Enthralled.

Key Points

  • The phrase 'captivatingly absorbed and interested' refers to the state of being completely fascinated, charmed, or held spellbound by something engaging. (मंत्रमुग्ध और पूरी तरह से लीन)
  • Example: The students were captivatingly absorbed and interested in the scientist's explanation of black holes.
  • 'Enthralled' is a one-word substitute that means to capture the fascinated attention of someone; to fill someone with intense interest or delight. (मंत्रमुग्ध करना)
  • Example: The audience was enthralled by the magician's ability to make a car disappear on stage.
  • Hence, we can infer that 'enthralled' is the most appropriate word to replace the underlined segment.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Enthralled.

Additional Information

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

  • Inundated (अभिभूत/बाढ़ आ जाना): Overwhelmed with things or people to be dealt with; flooded.
  • Example: After the news broke, the helpline was inundated with thousands of calls.
  • Befogged (भ्रमित/अस्पष्ट करना): To make someone confused or muddled; to obscure the vision or mind.
  • Example: The politician's vague answers only befogged the main issue of the debate.
  • Stalled (रुकावट/ठप्प होना): Stopped or caused to stop making progress; often used when an engine stops running.
  • Example: The peace negotiations stalled when both parties refused to sign the treaty.

Question 343

DSSSB Assistant Superintendent 2026• Test of English Language and Comprehension1

Choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the proverb ‘blood is thicker than water’.

  1. AOption (a)

    Blood is more important than water for physical health

  2. BOption (b)

    The loyalty towards family is greater than the loyalty to anyone else

  3. COption (c)

    Blood’s composition makes it thicker than water

  4. DOption (d)

    You can leave your friends for your relatives

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

The loyalty towards family is greater than the loyalty to anyone else

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: The loyalty towards family is greater than the loyalty to anyone else.

Key Points

  • The proverb 'blood is thicker than water' is an idiomatic expression which suggests that family bonds and familial relationships are always stronger and more important than any other types of relationships, such as those with friends or colleagues. (परिवार के प्रति वफादारी सबसे ऊपर होती है)
  • Example: Even after years of not speaking, he helped his brother pay off his debts because, in the end, blood is thicker than water.
  • 'The loyalty towards family is greater than the loyalty to anyone else' accurately captures the essence of the proverb, emphasizing that a person is likely to prioritize their kin over outsiders when faced with a choice. (परिवार के प्रति निष्ठा किसी भी अन्य व्यक्ति के प्रति निष्ठा से अधिक होती है)
  • Example: The CEO faced criticism for hiring his nephew, but he believed that the loyalty towards family is greater than the loyalty to anyone else.
  • Hence, we can infer that the meaning of the proverb is that family ties are the most significant.

Therefore, the correct answer is: The loyalty towards family is greater than the loyalty to anyone else.

Additional Information

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

  • Blood is more important than water for physical health (शारीरिक स्वास्थ्य के लिए रक्त पानी से अधिक महत्वपूर्ण है): This is a literal interpretation of the words 'blood' and 'water' in a biological context, which is incorrect for an idiom.
  • Example: In a medical emergency, doctors know that blood is more important than water for maintaining blood pressure.
  • Blood’s composition makes it thicker than water (रक्त की संरचना इसे पानी से गाढ़ा बनाती है): This refers to the physical properties and viscosity of blood compared to water, which is a scientific fact but not the proverb's meaning.
  • Example: A laboratory test confirmed that blood's composition makes it thicker than water due to the presence of cells and proteins.
  • You can leave your friends for your relatives (आप अपने रिश्तेदारों के लिए अपने दोस्तों को छोड़ सकते हैं): This is a specific action that might result from the proverb's meaning, but it is not the definition of the proverb itself.
  • Example: While some believe you can leave your friends for your relatives, others think friendship is equally vital.

Question 344

DSSSB Assistant Superintendent 2026• Test of English Language and Comprehension1

Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.

Redolent

  1. AOption (a)

    Tasteless

  2. BOption (b)

    Bland

  3. COption (c)

    Scented

  4. DOption (d)

    Dull

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Scented

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option (3) i.e. Scented.

Key Points

  • The word 'Redolent' refers to something that has a strong, pleasant smell or is strongly suggestive or reminiscent of something else. (सुगंधित / याद दिलाने वाला)
  • Example: The air in the old library was redolent of parchment and leather.
  • 'Scented' means having a pleasant or distinctive smell; it is used to describe something that naturally has or has been given a fragrance. (खुशबूदार)
  • Example: She prefers using scented soap because it makes her feel refreshed.
  • Hence, we can infer that the most appropriate synonym for 'Redolent' is 'Scented'.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Scented.

Additional Information

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

  • Tasteless (बेस्वाद): Lacking flavor or being socially inappropriate or offensive.
  • Example: The vegetables were overcooked and completely tasteless.
  • Bland (नरम / स्वादरहित): Lacking strong features or characteristics and therefore uninteresting or mild in flavor.
  • Example: The patient was put on a bland diet to avoid irritating his stomach.
  • Dull (सुस्त / फीका): Lacking interest, excitement, or brightness.
  • Example: It was a dull, grey morning with no sign of the sun.

Question 345

DSSSB Assistant Superintendent 2026• Test of English Language and Comprehension1

Which of the following words is the closest synonym of "Diligent"?

  1. AOption (a)

    Negligent

  2. BOption (b)

    Lazy

  3. COption (c)

    Indifferent

  4. DOption (d)

    Careful

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Careful

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Careful.

Key Points

  • The word 'Diligent' refers to someone who shows great care, attention, and persistence in their work or duties. (परिश्रमी)
  • Example: She is a diligent worker who never leaves a task unfinished.
  • 'Careful' means giving a lot of attention to what you are doing so that you do not make a mistake or cause damage; it is the closest synonym to being diligent. (सावधान)
  • Example: You must be careful when handling these fragile glass items.
  • Hence, we can infer that the closest synonym of 'Diligent' is 'Careful'.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Careful.

Additional Information

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

  • Negligent (लापरवाह): Failing to take proper care over something.
  • Example: The negligent attitude of the staff led to several complaints from the customers.
  • Lazy (आलसी): Unwilling to work or use energy.
  • Example: He is too lazy to cook for himself, so he usually orders fast food.
  • Indifferent (उदासीन): Having no particular interest or sympathy; unconcerned.
  • Example: Most people are indifferent to the political debates happening in the city.

Question 346

DSSSB Assistant Superintendent 2026• Test of English Language and Comprehension1

From the given options choose the one that has no misspelled words.

  1. AOption (a)

    His commendable proffessionalism never wavered, even amidst the slugishness of the project's progress.

  2. BOption (b)

    His commendable professionalism never wavered, even amidst the sluggishness of the project's progress.

  3. COption (c)

    His comendable professionalism never wavered, even amidst the sluggishness of the project's progress.

  4. DOption (d)

    His commendable profesionalism never wavered, even amidst the sluggishness of the project's progress.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

His commendable professionalism never wavered, even amidst the sluggishness of the project's progress.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option (2) i.e. 'His commendable professionalism never wavered, even amidst the sluggishness of the project's progress.'

Key Points

  • The word 'Professionalism' refers to the competence or skill expected of a professional; it involves practicing the highest standards of conduct. (व्यवसायिकता)
  • Example: Her professionalism and dedication were recognized by the management during the annual review.
  • The word 'Commendable' refers to something that is deserving of praise or admiration. (सराहनीय)
  • Example: The team made a commendable effort to complete the project before the deadline.
  • The word 'Sluggishness' refers to a state of being slow-moving, inactive, or lacking in energy. (सुस्ती/मंदी)
  • Example: The heavy meal caused a certain sluggishness that lasted for the rest of the afternoon.
  • Therefore, the correct answer is- His commendable professionalism never wavered, even amidst the sluggishness of the project's progress.

Additional Information

Here are the misspelled words from the other options explained:

  • Proffessionalism / Profesionalism (व्यवसायिकता - गलत वर्तनी): These are incorrect spellings. The correct spelling is 'Professionalism', which contains a single 'f' and a double 's'.
  • Comendable (सराहनीय - गलत वर्तनी): This is an incorrect spelling. The correct spelling is 'Commendable', which requires a double 'm'.
  • Slugishness (सुस्ती - गलत वर्तनी): This is an incorrect spelling. The correct spelling is 'Sluggishness', which requires a double 'g'.
  • Wavered (डिगना/डगमगाना): This word is spelled correctly in all options. It means to become unsteady or unreliable.

Question 347

DSSSB Assistant Superintendent 2026• Test of English Language and Comprehension1

Choose the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined words in the given sentence.

After a school trip to the planetarium, the children developed a strong interest in the study of stars, planets, and the universe.

  1. AOption (a)

    astrology

  2. BOption (b)

    geology

  3. COption (c)

    astronomy

  4. DOption (d)

    geography

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

astronomy

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Option (3) i.e. astronomy.

Key Points

  • The phrase 'the study of stars, planets, and the universe' refers to the scientific branch that observes celestial bodies and the physical cosmos. (सितारों, ग्रहों और ब्रह्मांड का अध्ययन)
  • Example: Ever since he was a child, he spent his nights engaged in the study of stars, planets, and the universe using his small telescope.
  • 'Astronomy' is the branch of science that deals with celestial objects, space, and the physical universe as a whole. (खगोल विज्ञान)
  • Example: Astronomy has revealed the existence of billions of galaxies beyond our own Milky Way.
  • Hence, it is clear that 'astronomy' is the most appropriate substitute for the given phrase.

Therefore, the correct answer is- astronomy.

Additional Information

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

  • Astrology (ज्योतिष शास्त्र): The study of the movements and relative positions of celestial bodies interpreted as having an influence on human affairs and the natural world.
  • Example: Many people consult astrology to determine their compatibility with others based on their zodiac signs.
  • Geology (भूविज्ञान): The science that deals with the Earth's physical structure and substance, its history, and the processes that act on it.
  • Example: A degree in geology allows you to study rock formations and the movement of tectonic plates.
  • Geography (भूगोल): The study of the physical features of the Earth and its atmosphere, and of human activity as it affects and is affected by these.
  • Example: In our geography class, we learned about the different climate zones and mountain ranges across the globe.

Question 348

DSSSB Assistant Superintendent 2026• Test of English Language and Comprehension1

A statement divided into different segments is given. The first segment (O) is fixed; rearrange the remaining segments to form a coherent statement.

O. Galileo was the first

A. secondary light appears on the

B. following a new moon, a mysterious

C. directly from the sun

D. to notice that in the initial days

E. moon that does not come

  1. AOption (a)

    OBEACD

  2. BOption (b)

    ODBAEC

  3. COption (c)

    OEDCBA

  4. DOption (d)

    OEACDB

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

ODBAEC

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is ODBAEC.

Key Points

  • The fixed segment O (Galileo was the first) establishes the subject and needs an infinitive phrase (to + verb) or a noun to complete the predicate; segment D (to notice that in the initial days) provides this necessary grammatical bridge. Hence, statement D is correct in this position.
  • Segment D ends with a time-related phrase that requires further clarification; segment B (following a new moon, a mysterious) provides the specific astronomical timeframe required for the observation. Hence, statement B is correct in this position.
  • The adjective mysterious at the end of segment B must modify a noun; segment A (secondary light appears on the) introduces the subject of the observation, which is the light itself. Hence, statement A is correct in this position.
  • Segment A concludes with a preposition (on the) that requires an object; segment E (moon that does not come) identifies the celestial body being discussed and initiates a relative clause. Hence, statement E is correct in this position.
  • The final segment C (directly from the sun) completes the logical thought by explaining the origin of the light, satisfying the verb phrase does not come from the previous segment. Hence, statement C is correct in this position.

 Additional Information

  • The sentence describes the scientific phenomenon of Earthshine:
  • Earthshine, also known as the Da Vinci Glow, occurs when sunlight reflects off Earth's surface, hits the Moon, and reflects back to our eyes.
  • This phenomenon is most visible during the Crescent phase, typically a few days following a new moon or before a new moon.
  • Galileo Galilei, in his 1610 work Sidereus Nuncius, correctly explained that this 'mysterious' light was not inherent to the moon but was reflected light from the Earth.
  • This discovery was crucial in supporting the Heliocentric model, as it proved that the Earth, like other planets, was a source of reflected light.

Question 349

DSSSB Assistant Superintendent 2026• Test of English Language and Comprehension1

Select the option that best explains the meaning of the given proverb.

Little strokes fell great oaks.

  1. AOption (a)

    Small, consistent efforts can accomplish even the biggest tasks.

  2. BOption (b)

    A mighty oak tree can be cut down with one strike.

  3. COption (c)

    Great trees fall easily and quickly in strong storms and winds.

  4. DOption (d)

    Only strong tools can fell the largest and tallest trees.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Small, consistent efforts can accomplish even the biggest tasks.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Small, consistent efforts can accomplish even the biggest tasks.

Key Points

  • The proverb 'Little strokes fell great oaks' suggests that even the most difficult and massive tasks can be completed if one works at them steadily and persistently with small steps. (निरंतर छोटे प्रयासों से बड़े कार्य सिद्ध होते हैं)
  • Example: Saving just a few dollars every day allowed him to buy a house after many years, proving that little strokes fell great oaks.
  • 'Small, consistent efforts can accomplish even the biggest tasks' is the direct interpretation of the proverb, emphasizing perseverance and regularity over brute force or speed. (छोटे, निरंतर प्रयास सबसे बड़े कार्यों को भी पूरा कर सकते हैं)
  • Example: She finished her 500-page thesis by writing only two paragraphs every morning, showing that small, consistent efforts can accomplish even the biggest tasks.
  • Hence, we can infer that the meaning of the proverb is best explained by the first option.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Small, consistent efforts can accomplish even the biggest tasks.

Additional Information

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

  • A mighty oak tree can be cut down with one strike (एक शक्तिशाली ओक के पेड़ को एक ही प्रहार में काटा जा सकता है): This suggests an instant result, which contradicts the proverb's focus on gradual effort.
  • Example: Believing that a mighty oak tree can be cut down with one strike is a recipe for disappointment when facing complex problems.
  • Great trees fall easily and quickly in strong storms and winds (तेज आंधी और हवाओं में बड़े पेड़ आसानी से और जल्दी गिर जाते हैं): This refers to natural disasters or external pressure rather than human persistence.
  • Example: The forest looked devastated because great trees fall easily and quickly in strong storms and winds.
  • Only strong tools can fell the largest and tallest trees (केवल शक्तिशाली उपकरण ही सबसे बड़े और सबसे ऊंचे पेड़ों को काट सकते हैं): This focuses on the quality of equipment or resources rather than the consistency of the worker.
  • Example: The workers realized that only strong tools can fell the largest and tallest trees in the dense jungle.

Question 350

DSSSB Assistant Superintendent 2026• Test of English Language and Comprehension1

Read the following proverb carefully and choose the option that best describes the meaning of the proverb.

What will be shall be.

  1. AOption (a)

    It's not written on stone.

  2. BOption (b)

    Hard work leads to success.

  3. COption (c)

    Fate cannot be avoided.

  4. DOption (d)

    The future is uncertain.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Fate cannot be avoided.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Fate cannot be avoided.

Key Points

  • The proverb 'What will be shall be' refers to the philosophical idea of fatalism, suggesting that events are predetermined and will happen regardless of human actions or interventions. (जो होना है वह होकर रहेगा)
  • Example: After preparing as much as possible for the exam, he decided to relax, knowing that what will be shall be.
  • 'Fate cannot be avoided' means that a person's destiny is inevitable and cannot be escaped or changed by any means. (भाग्य को टाला नहीं जा सकता)
  • Example: In many ancient tragedies, the hero discovers that his fate cannot be avoided no matter how far he runs.
  • Hence, we can infer that the meaning of the proverb 'What will be shall be' is 'Fate cannot be avoided'.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Fate cannot be avoided.

Additional Information

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

  • It is not written on stone (यह पत्थर की लकीर नहीं है): This phrase is used to indicate that a decision or plan is flexible and can be modified in the future.
  • Example: The initial agreement is not written on stone; we can negotiate the terms later.
  • Hard work leads to success (कड़ी मेहनत सफलता की ओर ले जाती है): This implies that diligence and persistence are the primary keys to achieving one's goals.
  • Example: He spent years perfecting his craft, proving once again that hard work leads to success.
  • The future is uncertain (भविष्य अनिश्चित है): This means that nobody can know for sure what will happen in time to come.
  • Example: Since the future is uncertain, it is always wise to have a backup plan.