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Question 11

SBI Clerk 2025• 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.

Once upon a time, in the bustling coastal village of Luminara, the sea was the lifeblood of the community. Fishermen set sail each dawn on the azure waters, returning with bountiful catches that sustained their families. Children built sandcastles on the shore, while tourists from far and wide marvelled at the pristine beauty of the beaches. But beneath the shimmering surface, trouble brewed deep in the heart of the ocean, as the menace of marine pollution grew day by day. In recent years, the problem of sea pollution had garnered global attention. Streams of polythene and other waste materials had begun to infiltrate the serene waters, causing distress among the marine life and tarnishing the once-immaculate shores of Luminara. The villagers watched in ________ as dead fish and turtles, their stomachs filled with plastic, washed ashore. The impact on their livelihood and the natural beauty of their home was profound, as they feared for the future of their beloved sea. Realising the urgency of the situation, world leaders, activists, and businessmen gathered for an imperative meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The International Summit on Marine Pollution drew big people from all corners of the globe, united by a common objective: to combat the escalating crisis of sea pollution. The atmosphere was charged with a blend of anxiety and hope as delegates from over sixty countries convened to share their perspectives and formulate a global strategy. Amelia, a renowned marine biologist and environmental activist from Australia, took to the podium first. Her deep knowledge of marine ecosystems painted a grim picture of the current scenario, detailing how polythene and other pollutants were causing irrevocable damage to marine life. She called for a drastic reduction in plastic production and stronger regulatory frameworks to manage waste disposal.

Following Amelia, Richard Kane, an influential businessman from the United States, shared an innovative approach his company had undertaken to tackle the problem. They had developed biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics and were investing in recycling technologies that showed promising results. Richard emphasised the necessity of public-private collaborations to drive meaningful change, urging his fellow businessmen to contribute to sustainable solutions. Representatives from different countries then provided updates on their national initiatives. India highlighted their recent ban on certain single-use plastics and the aggressive cleanup drives conducted along its extensive coastline. Norway spoke about their success in implementing stringent waste management policies and investing in marine research. Kenya showcased community-led programmes that educated citizens about the dangers of plastic pollution and how to reduce their consumption. The summit concluded with a strong sense of unity and determination. A comprehensive action plan was put forward, emphasising the roles of policy changes, technological advancements, and global cooperation. The representatives pledged to return to their countries with renewed vigour, ready to implement the strategies discussed. Back in Luminara, the villagers felt a glimmer of hope as news of the summit reached them. They understood that change would take time, but knowing that the world was now committed to protecting their precious sea gave them the strength to persevere. With the world finally coming together, there was a deep sense of optimism that the tide of marine pollution could, indeed, be reversed.

The villagers watched in ________ as dead fish and turtles, their stomachs filled with plastic, washed ashore.

  1. AOption (a)

    curiosity

  2. BOption (b)

    apathy

  3. COption (c)

    amazement

  4. DOption (d)

    dismay

  5. EOption (e)

    indifference

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

dismay

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'dismay'.

 

Key Points

  • The word "dismay" means a feeling of unhappiness and disappointment (निराशा).
  • The villagers felt sad and disappointed when they saw marine life polluted and dead because of plastic.
  • The other options: "curiosity," "apathy," "amazement," and "indifference" do not fit the emotional context appropriately.

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

Complete Sentence: The villagers watched in dismay as dead fish and turtles, their stomachs filled with plastic, washed ashore.

Additional Information

  • Curiosity (जिज्ञासा): means a strong desire to know or learn something.
  • Apathy (उदासीनता): means lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
  • Amazement (आश्चर्य): means a feeling of great surprise or wonder.
  • Indifference (असंगति): means lack of interest, concern, or sympathy.

Question 12

SBI Clerk 2025• 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.

Once upon a time, in the bustling coastal village of Luminara, the sea was the lifeblood of the community. Fishermen set sail each dawn on the azure waters, returning with bountiful catches that sustained their families. Children built sandcastles on the shore, while tourists from far and wide marvelled at the pristine beauty of the beaches. But beneath the shimmering surface, trouble brewed deep in the heart of the ocean, as the menace of marine pollution grew day by day. In recent years, the problem of sea pollution had garnered global attention. Streams of polythene and other waste materials had begun to infiltrate the serene waters, causing distress among the marine life and tarnishing the once-immaculate shores of Luminara. The villagers watched in ________ as dead fish and turtles, their stomachs filled with plastic, washed ashore. The impact on their livelihood and the natural beauty of their home was profound, as they feared for the future of their beloved sea. Realising the urgency of the situation, world leaders, activists, and businessmen gathered for an imperative meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The International Summit on Marine Pollution drew big people from all corners of the globe, united by a common objective: to combat the escalating crisis of sea pollution. The atmosphere was charged with a blend of anxiety and hope as delegates from over sixty countries convened to share their perspectives and formulate a global strategy. Amelia, a renowned marine biologist and environmental activist from Australia, took to the podium first. Her deep knowledge of marine ecosystems painted a grim picture of the current scenario, detailing how polythene and other pollutants were causing irrevocable damage to marine life. She called for a drastic reduction in plastic production and stronger regulatory frameworks to manage waste disposal.

Following Amelia, Richard Kane, an influential businessman from the United States, shared an innovative approach his company had undertaken to tackle the problem. They had developed biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics and were investing in recycling technologies that showed promising results. Richard emphasised the necessity of public-private collaborations to drive meaningful change, urging his fellow businessmen to contribute to sustainable solutions. Representatives from different countries then provided updates on their national initiatives. India highlighted their recent ban on certain single-use plastics and the aggressive cleanup drives conducted along its extensive coastline. Norway spoke about their success in implementing stringent waste management policies and investing in marine research. Kenya showcased community-led programmes that educated citizens about the dangers of plastic pollution and how to reduce their consumption. The summit concluded with a strong sense of unity and determination. A comprehensive action plan was put forward, emphasising the roles of policy changes, technological advancements, and global cooperation. The representatives pledged to return to their countries with renewed vigour, ready to implement the strategies discussed. Back in Luminara, the villagers felt a glimmer of hope as news of the summit reached them. They understood that change would take time, but knowing that the world was now committed to protecting their precious sea gave them the strength to persevere. With the world finally coming together, there was a deep sense of optimism that the tide of marine pollution could, indeed, be reversed.

Which of the following words is similar in meaning to "approach" as used in the passage?

  1. AOption (a)

    Retreat

  2. BOption (b)

    Method

  3. COption (c)

    Avoidance

  4. DOption (d)

    Refusal

  5. EOption (e)

    Deter

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Method

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Option 2' i.e., 'Method'.

Key Points

  • The word "approach" means a way or means of dealing with something. (दृष्टिकोण)
  • Example: His approach to solving difficult problems is always methodical and well-reasoned.
  • "Method" refers to a particular procedure or way of doing something, often systematic. (विधि)
  • Example: The scientific method involves a series of steps including observation, hypothesis, and experiments.
  • Therefore, the word 'method' is similar in meaning to the word 'approach'.

Therefore, the correct answer is 'Method'.

Additional Information

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

  • Retreat (पीछे हटना): Move back or withdraw, typically to a place of safety or seclusion.
  • Example: The army's retreat was orderly and planned.
  • Avoidance (परिहार): The action of keeping away from or not doing something.
  • Example: His avoidance of the issue only made things worse.
  • Refusal (अस्वीकृति): The act of rejecting something.
  • Example: Her refusal to cooperate made the project difficult.
  • Deter (रोकना): To discourage someone from doing something by instilling doubt or fear of the consequences.
  • Example: High prices are likely to deter many from buying the property.

Question 13

SBI Clerk 2025• 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.

Once upon a time, in the bustling coastal village of Luminara, the sea was the lifeblood of the community. Fishermen set sail each dawn on the azure waters, returning with bountiful catches that sustained their families. Children built sandcastles on the shore, while tourists from far and wide marvelled at the pristine beauty of the beaches. But beneath the shimmering surface, trouble brewed deep in the heart of the ocean, as the menace of marine pollution grew day by day. In recent years, the problem of sea pollution had garnered global attention. Streams of polythene and other waste materials had begun to infiltrate the serene waters, causing distress among the marine life and tarnishing the once-immaculate shores of Luminara. The villagers watched in ________ as dead fish and turtles, their stomachs filled with plastic, washed ashore. The impact on their livelihood and the natural beauty of their home was profound, as they feared for the future of their beloved sea. Realising the urgency of the situation, world leaders, activists, and businessmen gathered for an imperative meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The International Summit on Marine Pollution drew big people from all corners of the globe, united by a common objective: to combat the escalating crisis of sea pollution. The atmosphere was charged with a blend of anxiety and hope as delegates from over sixty countries convened to share their perspectives and formulate a global strategy. Amelia, a renowned marine biologist and environmental activist from Australia, took to the podium first. Her deep knowledge of marine ecosystems painted a grim picture of the current scenario, detailing how polythene and other pollutants were causing irrevocable damage to marine life. She called for a drastic reduction in plastic production and stronger regulatory frameworks to manage waste disposal.

Following Amelia, Richard Kane, an influential businessman from the United States, shared an innovative approach his company had undertaken to tackle the problem. They had developed biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics and were investing in recycling technologies that showed promising results. Richard emphasised the necessity of public-private collaborations to drive meaningful change, urging his fellow businessmen to contribute to sustainable solutions. Representatives from different countries then provided updates on their national initiatives. India highlighted their recent ban on certain single-use plastics and the aggressive cleanup drives conducted along its extensive coastline. Norway spoke about their success in implementing stringent waste management policies and investing in marine research. Kenya showcased community-led programmes that educated citizens about the dangers of plastic pollution and how to reduce their consumption. The summit concluded with a strong sense of unity and determination. A comprehensive action plan was put forward, emphasising the roles of policy changes, technological advancements, and global cooperation. The representatives pledged to return to their countries with renewed vigour, ready to implement the strategies discussed. Back in Luminara, the villagers felt a glimmer of hope as news of the summit reached them. They understood that change would take time, but knowing that the world was now committed to protecting their precious sea gave them the strength to persevere. With the world finally coming together, there was a deep sense of optimism that the tide of marine pollution could, indeed, be reversed.

Which of the following words is the opposite in meaning to "deep" as used in the passage?

  1. AOption (a)

    Shallow

  2. BOption (b)

    Vast

  3. COption (c)

    Murky

  4. DOption (d)

    Profound

  5. EOption (e)

    Complex

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Shallow

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Option 1' i.e., 'Shallow'.

Key Points

  • The word "deep" in the passage refers to something that is extending far down from the surface. (गहरा)
  • Example: The diver explored the deep waters of the ocean.
  • "Shallow" means having little depth or being close to the surface. (उथला)
  • Example: The children played in the shallow end of the pool.
  • Therefore, the opposite of 'deep' is 'shallow'.

Therefore, the correct answer is 'Shallow'.

Additional Information

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

  • Vast (विशाल): Very great in size, quantity, or extent.
  • Example: The desert extends over a vast area.
  • Murky (धुंधला): Dark and gloomy, especially due to thick mist or dirt.
  • Example: The water in the pond was murky and unclear.
  • Profound (गहरा): Very intense or deeply felt; often used metaphorically.
  • Example: His speech had a profound impact on all who heard it.
  • Complex (जटिल): Not simple; involved and complicated.
  • Example: The solution to the problem was complex and required several steps.

Question 14

SBI Clerk 2025• 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.

Sow

A. In the spring, farmers sow seeds in the fields to grow crops.

B. He decided to sow his wild oats before settling down.

C. She wanted to sew a new dress for the party.

  1. AOption (a)

    Only A

  2. BOption (b)

    Both A & B

  3. COption (c)

    Only C

  4. DOption (d)

    All A, B & C

  5. EOption (e)

    None of these

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Both A & B

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is option 2.

Key Points

  • To answer this question, let's first understand the meaning of the word given in the question:
  • Sow: to plant seeds in the ground; to introduce or spread an idea or feeling. (बोना, विचार फैलाना)
  • Now, let's examine the given sentences:
  • Sentence A: In the spring, farmers sow seeds in the fields to grow crops.
  • This sentence correctly uses the word "sow" to describe the act of planting seeds.
  • Sentence B: He decided to sow his wild oats before settling down.
  • This sentence also correctly uses the word "sow" metaphorically to describe indulging in youthful indiscretions before becoming more responsible.
  • Sentence C: She wanted to sew a new dress for the party.
  • This sentence uses the word "sew", which is different from "sow". "Sew" means to stitch fabric together.
  • So, both sentences A and B correctly use the word "sow" to illustrate its meaning, whereas sentence C does not.

Therefore, the correct answer is option 2.

Question 15

SBI Clerk 2025• English Language

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.

If the drought(A) doesn’t end soon, it will depend(B) the lives of people who harm(C) upon agriculture as their livelihood(D).

  1. AOption (a)

    B-C

  2. BOption (b)

    B-D

  3. COption (c)

    A-C

  4. DOption (d)

    A-B

  5. EOption (e)

    No change required

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

B-C

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'B-C.'

Key Points

  • The given sentence says that if it doesn't rain soon, it will harm the lives of people who depend upon agriculture as their means of support or living.
  • Let us explore the meaning of the highlighted words:
  • Drought - A long period without rain. (लम्बी अवधि तक वर्षा न होना, सूखा, अनावृष्टि)
  • Depend - To rely on something. (निर्भर करना)
  • Harm - To cause damage; hurt. (क्षति पहुँचाना; नुक़सान करना)
  • Livelihood - A means of securing the necessities of life. (धन अर्जित करने का ढंग; आजीविका, रोज़ी)
  • Thus, (B) and (C) must be interchanged.

Hence, the correct answer is option 1.

Correct Sentence: If the drought doesn’t end soon, it will harm the lives of people who depend upon agriculture as their livelihood.

Question 16

SBI Clerk 2025• English Language

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.

Even though computers can calculate(A) profits and losses very quickly, bastion(B) accountants tend to stick(C) with the veteran(D) of the accounting world, ledgers, and pencils.

  1. AOption (a)

    A-B

  2. BOption (b)

    B-C

  3. COption (c)

    C-D

  4. DOption (d)

    D-B

  5. EOption (e)

    No change required

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

D-B

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'D-B.'

Key Points

  • The given sentence talks about veteran accountants who tend to stay with the stronghold of the accounting world, ledgers, and pencils even though computers can calculate profits and losses very quickly.
  • Let us explore the meaning of the highlighted words:
  • Calculate - To find something out by using mathematics; to work something out. (गणना करना, हिसाब लगाना, परिकलन करना)
  • Bastion - Something that protects a way of life or a belief that is in danger of disappearing. (मत या जीवनशैली का संरक्षक; समर्थक)
  • Stick - To stay in a difficult or unpleasant situation. (कठिन या अप्रिय परिस्थिति में बने रहना, प्रतिकूल परिस्थिति को बरदाश्‍त करना)
  • Veteran - A person who has very long experience of a particular job or activity. (कार्य-विशेष में दक्ष व्‍यक्ति उसमें लंबा अनुभव होने के कारण, पुराना आदमी)
  • Thus, (D) and (B) must be interchanged.

Hence, the correct answer is option 4.

Correct Sentence: Even though computers can calculate profits and losses very quickly, veteran accountants tend to stick with the bastion of the accounting world, ledgers, and pencils.

Question 17

SBI Clerk 2025• English Language

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.

After the plane crashed(A), each of the survivors(B) received free airfare for life as a suffering(C) for their consolation(D).

  1. AOption (a)

    A-B

  2. BOption (b)

    C-D

  3. COption (c)

    B-D

  4. DOption (d)

    C-B

  5. EOption (e)

    No change required

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

C-D

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'C-D.'

Key Points

  • The given sentence talks about the survivors of a plane crash who received free airfare for life as a consolation for their state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship.
  • Let us explore the meaning of the highlighted words:
  • Crashed - To collide violently with an obstacle or another vehicle. (टकराना; गाड़ी को किसी जगह पर मार देना)
  • Survivors - People who survive, especially people remaining alive after an event in which others have died. (दुर्घटना में बच जाने वाला व्‍यक्ति)
  • Suffering - The state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship. (पीड़ा, कष्‍ट या वेदना)
  • Consolation - The comfort received by a person after a loss or disappointment. (दिलासा देने या धैर्य बँधाने वाली वस्‍तु या व्‍यक्ति; सांत्‍वना)
  • Thus, (C) and (D) must be interchanged.

Hence, the correct answer is option 2.

Correct Sentence: After the plane crashed, each of the survivors received free airfare for life as a consolation for their suffering.

Question 18

SBI Clerk 2025• English Language

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 exhausted(A) mother asked experienced(B) friends and family to deal(C) ways to recommend(D) with a colicky baby.

  1. AOption (a)

    A-D

  2. BOption (b)

    B-C

  3. COption (c)

    D-C

  4. DOption (d)

    A-B

  5. EOption (e)

    No change required

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

D-C

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'D-C.'

Key Points

  • The given sentence talks about a very tired mother who asked experienced friends and family to suggest ways to deal with a baby who cries from the pain and discomfort of indigestion.
  • Let us explore the meaning of the highlighted words:
  • Exhausted - Very tired. (बहुत थका हुआ; चकनाचूर)
  • Experienced - Having the knowledge or skill that is necessary for something. (कुछ करने के लिए पर्याप्त ज्ञान अथवा कौशल प्राप्त व्यक्ति, अनुभवी, तजुरबेकार)
  • Deal - To cope with or control a difficult person or situation. (किसी कठिन व्यक्ति या स्थिति से निपटना या उसे नियंत्रित करना)
  • Recommend - To tell somebody what you strongly believe he or she should do. (किसी को कोई विशेष काम करने की सलाह देना)
  • Thus, (D) and (C) must be interchanged.

Hence, the correct answer is option 3.

Correct Sentence: The exhausted mother asked experienced friends and family to recommend ways to deal with a colicky baby.

Question 19

SBI Clerk 2025• English Language

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.

Without innovation(A), humanity would never gain prosper**(B)** to new technologies to help(C) us advance and access**(D)**.

  1. AOption (a)

    A-B

  2. BOption (b)

    B-C

  3. COption (c)

    C-A

  4. DOption (d)

    D-B

  5. EOption (e)

    No change required

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

D-B

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'D-B.'

Key Points

  • The given sentence says that without new ideas humanity would never obtain an approach to new technologies to help humanity to develop in a successful way.
  • Let us explore the meaning of the highlighted words:
  • Innovation - A new idea, method, or device. (नवप्रवर्तन, नवपरिवर्तन)
  • Prosper - To develop in a successful way; to be successful. (सफलतापूर्वक विकसित होना, फलना-फूलना; समृद्घ होना)
  • Help - To make something better or easier. (हालात को बेहतर या अधिक आसान बना देना)
  • Access - The chance or right to use or have something. (किसी वस्‍तु को प्रयोग में लाने या प्राप्‍त करने का अवसर या अधिकार)
  • Thus, (D) and (B) must be interchanged.

Hence, the correct answer is option 4.

Correct Sentence: Without innovation, humanity would never gain access to new technologies to help us advance and prosper.

Question 20

SBI Clerk 2025• English Language

Directions

Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank.

A peace negotiation has been in _______ for the last 25 years, and the hope is that this would culminate in a lasting settlement.

  1. AOption (a)

    Progress

  2. BOption (b)

    Congress

  3. COption (c)

    Distress

  4. DOption (d)

    Regress

  5. EOption (e)

    Suppress

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Progress

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Progress.'

Key Points

  • The given sentence is talking about a peace negotiation that has been in advancement or progression for the last 25 years.
  • Therefore, the most appropriate word to be filled in the blank is 'Progress'.
  • Also, the use of the word ''negotiation'' in the sentence indicates the use of the word 'progress' in the blank.
  • The word 'Progress' means Development towards an improved or more advanced condition.
  • Example: We have made great progress in controlling inflation.

Hence, the correct answer is option 1.

Complete Sentence: A peace negotiation has been in progress for the last 25 years, and the hope is that this would culminate in a lasting settlement.

Additional Information

  • Let us explore  the other options:
  • Congress means The action of coming together.
  • Distress means Extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain.
  • Regress means The action of returning to a former or less developed state.
  • Suppress means To stop something by using force.