English Comprehension PYQs

The correct answer is: Its ability to spread both truth and misinformation. This is correct because social media serves as a tool for sharing information, but it also risks propagating falsehoods, making it a double-edged sword in democratic societies.

The correct answer is: Viral reach and grassroots mobilization.

This option is correct because the paragraph highlights how social media amplifies marginalized voices by enabling widespread sharing and grassroots efforts, bypassing traditional gatekeeping institutions.

The correct answer is: Algorithmic transparency and media literacy. The author emphasizes the importance of educating users and ensuring transparency in social media algorithms to mitigate misuse and safeguard democratic processes effectively.

The correct answer is: Societal intent and ethical usage.

This is correct because the author emphasizes that the impact of social media on democracy depends on how society uses it ethically and with responsible intent.

The correct answer is '1' i.e. than the train departed .

Key Points

• The phrase "No sooner" is always followed by "than", not "when" or "then."
• The structure is: No sooner + auxiliary verb + subject + verb + than + rest of the sentence.
• In the given sentence, the correct structure should be: No sooner had I reached the station than the train departed.

Correct sentence: No sooner had I reached the station than the train departed.

Additional Information

• Common Usage: The phrase "No sooner...than" is typically used to talk about two actions that happen in quick succession, with the first action causing or leading to the second.
• Example: No sooner had the meeting started than the fire alarm went off.
• Incorrect Usage: Using "when" or "then" instead of "than" with "No sooner" is grammatically incorrect.

The correct answer is '3' i.e. asked the clerk to submit the report.

Key Points

• The highlighted part of the sentence contains an incorrect usage of the preposition "to."
• The correct structure of the sentence requires the verb "asked" to be directly followed by the object ("the clerk") and the infinitive verb ("to submit").
• Therefore, the correct replacement is "asked the clerk to submit the report."

Correct sentence: The manager asked the clerk to submit the report.

Additional Information

• Option 1: "asked the clerk that submit the report" is grammatically incorrect because "that" cannot be used in this context.
• Option 2: "requested the clerk to submit report" is incorrect as "report" should have a definite article ("the report").
• Option 4: "told to the clerk submit report" is incorrect because of improper sentence structure and missing articles.

The correct answer is '1' i.e. She said she had seen him the previous night.

Key Points

• The given sentence is in direct speech, and the goal is to convert it into indirect speech.
• When converting from direct to indirect speech, the tense often changes, especially when the reporting verb (e.g., "she said") is in the past tense.
• In this case:
• The direct speech, "I saw him last night," uses the past simple tense ("saw").
• In indirect speech, the past simple tense changes to the past perfect tense ("had seen").
• The phrase "last night" changes to "the previous night" to reflect the change in perspective.
• Thus, the correct answer is: She said she had seen him the previous night.

Correct sentence: She said she had seen him the previous night.

Additional Information

• Changes in tense for indirect speech:
• Present simple → Past simple
• Present continuous → Past continuous
• Past simple → Past perfect
• Changes in time expressions:
• Now → Then
• Today → That day
• Last night → The previous night

The correct answer is '3' i.e. "Maintain silence in the library," said the librarian. .

Key Points

• The given sentence in indirect speech mentions that the librarian said that silence must be maintained in the library.
• To convert this into direct speech, the verb "said" in indirect speech aligns with a command or instruction in direct speech.
• The most accurate representation of this command is: "Maintain silence in the library," said the librarian.

Correct sentence: "Maintain silence in the library," said the librarian.

Additional Information

• In direct speech, a command or instruction is often conveyed using the imperative form of the verb (e.g., "Maintain silence").
• Option 1 ("Silence should be maintained in the library") is incorrect as it uses a modal verb ("should") that doesn't precisely convey a command.
• Option 2 ("You will maintain silence in the library") is incorrect as it implies a future commitment rather than a present command.
• Option 4 ("Must you maintain silence in the library?") is incorrect as it changes the sentence into a question, which alters its meaning.

The correct answer is '4' i.e. 3, 4, 2, 1 .

Key Points

• The question asks to rearrange the sentences into a coherent paragraph.
• The first sentence (3) introduces the concept of communication, making it the logical start of the paragraph.
• The second sentence (4) introduces the subtle signals that indicate how a message is truly being received or intended.
• The third sentence (2) elaborates on non-verbal cues, explaining that these signals convey more meaning than the verbal message itself.
• The fourth sentence (1) serves as the conclusion, beginning with the transition 'Consequently'.

Correct sequence: 3, 4, 2, 1.

Additional Information

• This type of question tests your ability to logically organize sentences to create a meaningful paragraph.
• Always identify the introductory sentence first, followed by supporting details, and then the concluding statement.

The correct answer is '1' i.e. 2, 1, 3, 4 .

Key Points

• The given sentences need to be arranged in a sequence that forms a coherent paragraph. The correct sequence is 2, 1, 3, 4.
• Sentence 2 introduces the main idea of reducing reliance on carbon-intensive energy production to combat climate change.
• Sentence 1 explains a key strategy for achieving this goal: transitioning to renewable energy sources.
• Sentence 3 elaborates on the benefits of this transition, such as decreased greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality, and economic opportunities.
• Sentence 4 concludes by highlighting additional policy measures to lower energy consumption through energy efficiency.

Correct paragraph: To mitigate the worst effects of climate change, the global community must drastically reduce its reliance on carbon-intensive energy production. A key strategy is to diversify energy sources, transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable alternatives like solar, wind, and geothermal power. This shift not only decreases greenhouse gas emissions but also improves air quality and creates new economic opportunities. Additionally, policies that promote energy efficiency in buildings and transportation can further lower overall energy consumption..

Additional Information

• When arranging sentences to form a coherent paragraph, it is important to identify the introductory sentence, supporting details, and the concluding statement.
• Pay attention to logical progression and connect ideas using keywords or phrases.

The correct answer is: Vague.

Key Points

• The word "nebulous" refers to something that is unclear, vague, or ill-defined. (अस्पष्ट)
• Example: Her plans for the future remain nebulous and lack a clear direction.
• "Vague" means not clearly expressed, defined, or understood; it is similar in meaning to "nebulous." (अनिश्चित)
• Example: He gave a vague answer when asked about his goals.
• Hence, we can conclude that the synonym of 'nebulous' is 'vague'.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Vague.

Additional Information

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

• Precise (सटीक): Clearly defined or accurate; not ambiguous or vague.
• Example: The instructions were precise and easy to follow.
• Obvious (स्पष्ट): Easily understood or clear; not difficult to see or understand.
• Example: It was obvious from his expression that he was upset.
• Clear (साफ): Easily perceived or understood; free from ambiguity or doubt.
• Example: The teacher gave a clear explanation of the topic.

The correct answer is: Uninformed.

Key Points

• The word "Erudite" means having or showing great knowledge or learning; highly educated and scholarly. (विद्वान)
• Example: The professor's erudite lectures were admired by all the students.
• "Uninformed" refers to someone lacking knowledge or awareness in general or about a particular subject. (अज्ञानी)
• Example: The uninformed audience failed to grasp the depth of the topic being discussed.
• Hence, the most appropriate antonym of 'erudite' is 'uninformed'.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Uninformed.

Additional Information

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

• Scholarly (विद्वत्तापूर्ण): Pertaining to serious academic study or learning.
• Example: She presented a scholarly paper at the international conference.
• Learned (पंडित): Having profound knowledge acquired by study.
• Example: The learned scientist gave an insightful speech on climate change.
• Intellectual (बौद्धिक): Relating to the intellect or mental capacity to think and understand ideas at a high level.
• Example: The book club attracted many intellectual individuals who enjoyed deep discussions.

The correct answer is: Option 3 i.e. "To become suddenly angry".

Key Points

• The idiom "Fly off the handle" refers to someone losing their temper or becoming suddenly angry without warning. (अचानक गुस्सा होना)
• Example: He flew off the handle when he realized someone had scratched his car.
• The correct meaning of the idiom is "to become suddenly angry" and is commonly used in situations where someone reacts emotionally or angrily to a situation. (अचानक गुस्से में प्रतिक्रिया देना)
• Example: She tends to fly off the handle whenever someone criticizes her work.
• Therefore, the correct answer is: Option 3.

Additional Information

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

• Option 1: To escape quietly (चुपचाप भाग जाना): Refers to sneaking away or leaving a place without attracting attention.
• Example: He managed to escape quietly before the guards noticed him.
• Option 2: To disappear quickly (जल्दी से गायब हो जाना): Refers to vanishing or going out of sight within a short period.
• Example: The magician made the coin disappear quickly during his performance.
• Option 4: To handle a situation smartly (स्मार्ट तरीके से स्थिति को संभालना): Refers to dealing with or managing a situation efficiently and wisely.
• Example: She handled the crisis smartly and calmed everyone down.

The correct answer is: Castigation.

Key Points

• The word "Encomium" refers to a speech or piece of writing that warmly praises someone or something. (प्रशंसा)
• Example: He delivered a heartfelt encomium at his mentor's retirement party.
• "Castigation" means severe criticism or punishment, often as a corrective measure. (फटकार)
• Example: The manager's castigation of the team was a wake-up call for everyone to improve their performance.
• Hence, we can infer that the opposite of 'Encomium' is 'Castigation'.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Castigation.

Additional Information

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

• Panegyric (प्रशंसा स्तुति): A public speech or published text in praise of someone or something.
• Example: The author wrote a panegyric to celebrate the scientist's groundbreaking discoveries.
• Praise (प्रशंसा): Expression of approval or admiration.
• Example: The teacher praised the student for her excellent performance in the exam.
• Tribute (श्रद्धांजलि): An act, statement, or gift that is intended to show gratitude, respect, or admiration.
• Example: The event was a tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the nation.

The correct answer is option 3.

Key Points

The correct spelling is 'Trisomy'.

• Trisomy refers to a chromosomal condition in which there are three copies of a specific chromosome instead of the normal two.
• The term is commonly associated with genetic disorders such as Down syndrome (Trisomy 21).
• For example - Trisomy 18 (Edwards syndrome) and Trisomy 13 (Patau syndrome).

Therefore, the correct spelling is 'Trisomy'.

Additional Information

Let's understand the meanings of the other incorrect options - 

• Trisomie - This is incorrect spelling derived from French, though not used in English.
• Trissomy - This is an incorrect spelling and does not exist as a biological term.
• Trissomie - This is an incorrect spelling and does not exist as a biological term.

The correct answer is: Option 4 (Desuetude).

Key Points

• The word "Desuetude" means a state of disuse or inactivity. (अप्रचलन या निष्क्रियता)
• Example: The old factory fell into desuetude after the company relocated to another city.
• "Desuetude" is the correct word to describe something that is no longer in use or has become inactive. (अप्रचलन)
• Example: This law has fallen into desuetude as society has moved on to more progressive policies.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Option 4 (Desuetude).

Additional Information

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

• Hiatus (अंतराल): A pause or gap in a sequence, series, or process.
• Example: The show went on hiatus for the summer but resumed in the fall.
• Oblivion (भूलने की अवस्था): The state of being unaware or unconscious of what is happening around one; or being forgotten.
• Example: His groundbreaking work fell into oblivion after his death.
• Interregnum (अंतराल): A period when normal government is suspended, especially between successive reigns or regimes.
• Example: There was an interregnum of two years before the new king was crowned.

The correct answer is 'were'.

Key Points

• The word "were" correctly agrees with "negotiations" which is plural and sets the sentence in the past tense.
• The structure "So delicate were" introduces the sentence in an emphatic way.
• Options 1, 3, and 4 are not suitable for this context with "negotiations" happening in the past.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 2.

Complete Sentence: "So delicate were the negotiations yesterday that a single leak could derail them."

Additional Information

• Option 1: "are" is incorrect as it suggests present tense, while the sentence sets the scenario in the past.
• Option 3: "is" is incorrect since the subject "negotiations" is plural and also it suggests present tense.
• Option 4: "was" is incorrect as it fails to agree with the plural subject "negotiations."

The correct answer is 'more'.

Key Points

• The sentence suggests a positive comparison. The word "more" fits appropriately to indicate that the interpretation was insightful to a greater extent.
• The use of "more" aligns with the context of the sentence, which emphasizes the revelatory nature of the interpretation.
• Options 1, 3, and 4 do not maintain the logical flow of the sentence or fit grammatically in the given context.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 2.

Complete Sentence: "Her interpretation was more than insightful; it bordered on the revelatory."

Additional Information

• Option 1: "less" is incorrect as it conveys a negative comparison, which contradicts the context.
• Option 3: "other" is incorrect as it does not fit the comparative structure of the sentence.
• Option 4: "rather" is incorrect because it does not complete the comparison in the sentence logically.

The correct answer is 'quell'.

Key Points

• The verb "quell" means to suppress or subdue something, especially by force.
• The sentence context indicates that the reforms were designed to suppress (or "quell") dissent.
• Options 2, 3, and 4 do not fit the sentence context:
• Option 2 (swell): "Swell" means to increase in size or number, which is the opposite of suppression.
• Option 3 (rebut): "Rebut" means to argue or refute something, which does not fit the meaning of suppressing dissent.
• Option 4 (impugn): "Impugn" means to challenge or question something, which is unrelated to the act of suppression.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 1.

Complete Sentence: "The reforms, while ostensibly motivated by economic exigencies, were in effect a veiled attempt to quell dissent under the guise of austerity."

Additional Information

• Option 2 (swell): Does not match the context, as it implies growth or increase, which is contradictory to the intended meaning.
• Option 3 (rebut): Incorrect because rebut refers to arguing against something, not suppressing it.
• Option 4 (impugn): Incorrect because impugn refers to questioning or challenging something, not quelling dissent.

The correct answer is 'Option (4):refraining from premature disclosure'.

Key Points

• The error lies in the final part of the sentence due to a lack of parallel structure.
• In the list "discretion, decorum, and refraining from premature disclosure," the first two items ("discretion" and "decorum") are abstract nouns.
• The third item, "refraining from premature disclosure," is a gerund phrase, which breaks the parallel rhythm. To maintain parallelism, it should be changed to a noun like "reticence" or "secrecy."
• Options 1, 2, and 3 are grammatically correct and follow the "The more... the more..." comparative structure.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 4.

Complete Sentence: "The more senior the position was, the more urgent became the need for discretion, decorum, and reticence from premature disclosure*."*

Additional Information

• Option 1: "The more senior..." correctly initiates the double comparative structure.
• Option 2: "...the more urgent became..." is a correct inversion used for emphasis in formal English.
• Option 3: "discretion, decorum, and" properly lists the first two nouns required for the parallel series.