SSC GD Constable · Topic Collection

English Comprehension PYQs

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

6845 Total Questions320 Official PapersYears: 2019–2026Search in English Comprehension
Showing questions 521–540 of 6845Page 27 of 100
SSC GD Constable 2026 Official Paper (Held On 09 May, 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English
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Question 521

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

From the alternatives given below, select the correct meaning of the idiom.

Blue code of silence.

  1. AOption (a)

    A silence that unnerves one

  2. BOption (b)

    An absence of speech or sound that creates or communicates an especially effective or poignant message

  3. COption (c)

    An unspoken policy or concealment by police regarding the wrongdoing or illicit activity of other officers.

  4. DOption (d)

    A very tense, awkward, or uncomfortable atmosphere among a group of people

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

An unspoken policy or concealment by police regarding the wrongdoing or illicit activity of other officers.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'Option (3)' i.e. 'An unspoken policy or concealment by police regarding the wrongdoing or illicit activity of other officers.'.

Key Points

  • The idiom 'Blue code of silence' refers to a custom or unwritten rule among police officers where they refuse to report or testify against their colleagues for any misconduct or criminal activity. (पुलिस अधिकारियों के बीच अपने सहयोगियों के गलत कामों की रिपोर्ट न करने की एक अघोषित नीति)
  • Example: The internal investigation was hampered by the blue code of silence, as no officer was willing to speak against their partner.
  • 'An unspoken policy or concealment by police regarding the wrongdoing or illicit activity of other officers' describes the systemic culture of protecting fellow law enforcement members from legal or disciplinary consequences. (पुलिस द्वारा अन्य अधिकारियों की गलत या अवैध गतिविधियों के संबंध में एक अघोषित नीति या उसे छिपाने का कृत्य)
  • Example: Many reforms aim to dismantle the blue code of silence to ensure greater accountability within the police department.
  • Hence, we can infer that the idiom 'Blue code of silence' represents the concealment of illicit activities within the police force.

Therefore, the correct answer is- An unspoken policy or concealment by police regarding the wrongdoing or illicit activity of other officers.

Additional Information

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

  • A silence that unnerves one (एक ऐसी चुप्पी जो किसी को घबरा दे): This refers to a quiet environment or situation that makes a person feel anxious, scared, or uneasy.
  • Example: After the strange noise in the basement, there was a silence that unnerves one, making my heart race.
  • An absence of speech or sound that creates or communicates an especially effective or poignant message (मौन की स्थिति जो एक विशेष रूप से प्रभावशाली या मर्मस्पर्शी संदेश देती है): Also known as eloquent silence, it is used to convey deep meaning without words.
  • Example: When the memorial began, the absence of speech among the thousands of people communicated a powerful sense of shared grief.
  • A very tense, awkward, or uncomfortable atmosphere among a group of people (लोगों के बीच एक बहुत ही तनावपूर्ण या असहज वातावरण): This describes a social situation filled with friction or embarrassment where no one knows what to say.
  • Example: After the harsh criticism of the manager, there was a very tense and uncomfortable atmosphere in the meeting room.
SSC GD Constable 2026 Official Paper (Held On 09 May, 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English
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Question 522

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

From the alternatives given below, select the correct meaning of the idiom.

Stay within the lines.

  1. AOption (a)

    Stay present during some event or timeframe

  2. BOption (b)

    Be in a place as near as possible

  3. COption (c)

    A strict and inflexible view of or position on something

  4. DOption (d)

    To think or act in accordance with set rules

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

To think or act in accordance with set rules

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: To think or act in accordance with set rules.

Key Points

  • The idiom 'Stay within the lines' means to behave in a way that is consistent with the established rules, norms, or expectations without deviating from them. (नियमों या मर्यादाओं के भीतर रहना)
  • Example: In a highly regulated industry like banking, it is crucial for employees to stay within the lines to avoid legal issues.
  • 'To think or act in accordance with set rules' refers to the process of making decisions or performing actions that strictly follow a predefined framework or set of guidelines. (निर्धारित नियमों के अनुसार सोचना या कार्य करना)
  • Example: The project manager ensured that everyone was thinking and acting in accordance with set rules to maintain safety standards.
  • Hence, we can infer that the meaning of the idiom 'stay within the lines' is 'to think or act in accordance with set rules'.

Therefore, the correct answer is: To think or act in accordance with set rules.

Additional Information

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

  • Stay present during some event or timeframe (किसी घटना या समय सीमा के दौरान उपस्थित रहना): This refers to physical or mental presence during a specific period.
  • Example: It is mandatory for all students to stay present during the annual guest lecture.
  • Be in a place as near as possible (जितना संभव हो उतना निकट स्थान पर होना): This describes being in close physical proximity to a person, object, or location.
  • Example: For the best view of the parade, you should try to be in a place as near as possible to the main gate.
  • A strict and inflexible view of or position on something (किसी चीज़ पर सख्त और अडिग दृष्टिकोण या स्थिति): This refers to a rigid mindset or an uncompromising stance on a particular issue.
  • Example: The chairman has a strict and inflexible view of the company's dress code policy.
SSC GD Constable 2026 Official Paper (Held On 09 May, 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English
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Question 523

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Which of the following words is correctly spelt?

  1. AOption (a)

    Cryptic

  2. BOption (b)

    cajoule

  3. COption (c)

    Capitalate

  4. DOption (d)

    Charletan

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

Cryptic

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Cryptic.

Key Points

  • The word 'Cryptic' refers to something that is mysterious, obscure, or having a hidden meaning that is difficult to understand. (रहस्यमय)
  • Example: The detective found a cryptic message at the crime scene that required a code to break.
  • 'Cryptic' is the correctly spelled word among the choices, used to describe enigmatic or puzzling statements. (गुढ़)
  • Example: His cryptic smile made me wonder if he knew more about the secret than he was letting on.
  • Hence, we can infer that 'Cryptic' is the only word correctly spelled in the given list.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Cryptic.

Additional Information

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

  • Cajole (फुसलाना): To persuade someone to do something by sustained coaxing or flattery. (The spelling 'cajoule' is incorrect).
  • Example: He managed to cajole his friend into loaning him the money for the tickets.
  • Capitulate (आत्मसमर्पण करना): To cease to resist an opponent or an unwelcome demand; to surrender. (The spelling 'Capitalate' is incorrect).
  • Example: The rebel forces were finally forced to capitulate after months of conflict.
  • Charlatan (पाखंडी): A person falsely claiming to have a special knowledge or skill; a fraud. (The spelling 'Charletan' is incorrect).
  • Example: The self-proclaimed expert turned out to be a charlatan who had no formal training.
SSC GD Constable 2026 Official Paper (Held On 09 May, 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English
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Question 524

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Choose the correct synonym for the word "withdraw".

  1. AOption (a)

    Advance

  2. BOption (b)

    Retreat

  3. COption (c)

    offer

  4. DOption (d)

    Attack

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Retreat

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Option(2) i.e. Retreat.

Key Points

  • The word 'withdraw' means to pull back, remove, or move away from a particular place or situation. (वापस लेना / पीछे हटना)
  • Example: The government decided to withdraw the troops from the conflict zone after the peace treaty was signed.
  • 'Retreat' refers to the act of moving back or withdrawing from a position or situation, often because it is dangerous, difficult, or as a tactical move in battle. (पीछे हटना)
  • Example: The army had to retreat to a safer location when the enemy launched a surprise offensive.
  • Hence, we can infer that the synonym of 'withdraw' is 'retreat'.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Retreat.

Additional Information

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

  • Advance (आगे बढ़ना): To move forward in a purposeful way or to make progress.
  • Example: The technology continues to advance at a rapid pace every year.
  • Offer (प्रस्ताव देना): To present or proffer something for someone to accept or reject.
  • Example: The company decided to offer him a higher salary to keep him from leaving.
  • Attack (आक्रमण करना): To take aggressive action against a person or place with weapons or force.
  • Example: The enemy was planning to attack the city under the cover of darkness.
SSC GD Constable 2026 Official Paper (Held On 09 May, 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English
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Question 525

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Choose the misspelt word from the given options.

  1. AOption (a)

    Cemetery

  2. BOption (b)

    Punctuate

  3. COption (c)

    Ludicrious

  4. DOption (d)

    Indolence

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Ludicrious

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Ludicrious.

Key Points

  • The word 'Ludicrious' is misspelt as it contains an extra 'i'; there is no such word in standard English. (अशुद्ध शब्द)
  • Example: The editor highlighted 'ludicrious' as a spelling mistake in the manuscript.
  • 'Ludicrous' is the correct spelling, which refers to something that is so foolish, unreasonable, or out of place as to be amusing; ridiculous. (हास्यास्पद)
  • Example: It is ludicrous to suggest that he could have completed the entire marathon in ten minutes.
  • Hence, we can infer that the misspelt word among the options is 'Ludicrious'.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Ludicrious.

Additional Information

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

  • Cemetery (कब्रिस्तान): A large burial ground, especially one not associated with a church.
  • Example: They laid fresh flowers on the grave at the local cemetery.
  • Punctuate (विराम-चिह्न लगाना): To insert punctuation marks in a text to make its meaning clear.
  • Example: You must punctuate your sentences properly so that they are easy to read.
  • Indolence (आलस्य): Avoidance of activity or exertion; laziness.
  • Example: His failure in the project was a direct result of his sheer indolence.
SSC GD Constable 2026 Official Paper (Held On 09 May, 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English
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Question 526

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Choose the word that is the antonym of Elevated.

  1. AOption (a)

    Raised

  2. BOption (b)

    Lowered

  3. COption (c)

    Upright

  4. DOption (d)

    LIFTED

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Lowered

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Lowered.

Key Points

  • The word 'Elevated' refers to something that is situated or placed higher than the surrounding area, or it can describe something that is at a high level or position. (उच्च या ऊपर उठा हुआ)
  • Example: The patient was advised to keep her elevated leg on a pillow to reduce swelling.
  • 'Lowered' means to move something to a lower position or to reduce the height or level of something; it is the direct opposite of raising or elevating. (नीचा किया हुआ या घटाया हुआ)
  • Example: He lowered the volume of the radio so he could hear the phone ringing.
  • Hence, we can infer that the opposite of 'Elevated' is 'Lowered'.

Therefore, the correct answer is: Lowered.

Additional Information

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

  • Raised (उठाया हुआ): Something that has been moved to a higher position or level.
  • Example: She raised her hand to ask a question during the lecture.
  • Upright (सीधा): Sitting or standing with the back straight; in a vertical position.
  • Example: Please keep the box in an upright position to prevent the contents from leaking.
  • Lifted (ऊपर उठाया गया): To be picked up or moved to a different, higher position.
  • Example: The heavy boxes were lifted onto the truck by the workers.
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Question 527

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Choose the most suitable one-word substitution for the following.

One who takes part in an activity for pleasure and not professionally.

  1. AOption (a)

    Novice

  2. BOption (b)

    Apprentice

  3. COption (c)

    Amateur

  4. DOption (d)

    Veteran

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Amateur

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is: Amateur.

Key Points

  • The phrase 'One who takes part in an activity for pleasure and not professionally' refers to a person who pursues an interest or a hobby primarily for enjoyment rather than for financial gain or as a full-time career. (एक व्यक्ति जो किसी गतिविधि में आनंद के लिए भाग लेता है न कि पेशेवर रूप से)
  • Example: Even as an amateur, his skill in playing the violin was remarkable.
  • 'Amateur' is a person who engages in a pursuit, especially a sport or an art, on an unpaid rather than a professional basis. (गैर-पेशेवर या शौकिया)
  • Example: The photo contest is only open to amateur photographers.
  • Hence, we can infer that the most suitable one-word substitution for the given phrase is 'Amateur'.

Therefore, the correct answer is- Amateur.

Additional Information

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

  • Novice (नौसिखिया): A person who is new to and inexperienced in a job or situation.
  • Example: This computer course is designed for the complete novice.
  • Apprentice (प्रशिक्षु): A person who is learning a trade from a skilled employer, having agreed to work for a fixed period at low wages.
  • Example: He worked as an apprentice to a master carpenter to learn the craft.
  • Veteran (अनुभवी/दिग्गज): A person who has had long experience in a particular field or someone who has served in the military.
  • Example: As a veteran of many political campaigns, she knew exactly how to handle the media.
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Question 528

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Which of the following options is the most suitable conversion of the following sentence into Passive Voice?

He will have renovated the bungalow by next month.

  1. AOption (a)

    The bungalow will have renovate by him by next month.

  2. BOption (b)

    The bungalow will renovated by him by next month.

  3. COption (c)

    The bungalow will have been renovated by him by next month.

  4. DOption (d)

    The bungalow has been renovated by him by next month.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

The bungalow will have been renovated by him by next month.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is The bungalow will have been renovated by him by next month..

Key Points

  • The original sentence is in the Future Perfect Tense, which follows the active structure: Subject + will + have + V3 (Past Participle) + Object.
  • To transform this into the Passive Voice, the grammatical rule dictates the following structure: Object + will + have + been + V3 (Past Participle) + by + Subject.
  • The active subject He is replaced by the active object The bungalow, which becomes the grammatical subject in the passive construction.
  • The pronoun He must be converted into its objective form, him, when placed after the preposition by as the agent of the action.
  • The auxiliary phrase will have been is essential in the passive form to maintain the perfective aspect and the future timeline of the completion of the renovation.
  • The main verb renovated is already in its Past Participle (V3) form and remains unchanged in the passive voice, paired with the auxiliary been.

 Additional Information

  • Future Perfect Passive Construction
  • The use of will have been is mandatory for all subjects (singular or plural) in the Future Perfect Passive to indicate that an action will be completed relative to a future point.
  • The word been serves as the critical marker that distinguishes the passive state from the Active Future Perfect, which would simply be will have.
  • Functional Use of Prepositions
  • In the passive sentence, the preposition by is used twice: first to identify the agent (the person performing the action, him) and second to denote the time constraint or deadline (next month).
  • Maintaining the time phrase (by next month) at the end of the sentence ensures the context of the Future Perfect Tense is preserved accurately.
  • Pronoun Case Transformation
  • In English syntax, personal pronouns must change from the nominative case (He, She, I, They) to the accusative/objective case (him, her, me, them) when they shift from the subject position to the object/agent position in the passive voice.
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Question 529

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Which of the following options is the most suitable conversion of the following sentence into Passive Voice?

Were the musicians playing classical music at the concert?

  1. AOption (a)

    Was classical music played at the concert by the musicians?

  2. BOption (b)

    Was classical music being played at the concert by the musicians?

  3. COption (c)

    Has classical music been played at the concert by the musicians?

  4. DOption (d)

    Is classical music being played at the concert by the musicians?

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Was classical music being played at the concert by the musicians?

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Was classical music being played at the concert by the musicians?.

Key Points

  • The original sentence Were the musicians playing classical music at the concert? is an interrogative sentence in the Past Continuous Tense.
  • In the Active Voice, the structure for this tense is: Was/Were + Subject + Verb-ing + Object?
  • When converting to Passive Voice, the object of the active sentence classical music becomes the new subject. Since classical music is an uncountable and singular noun, the auxiliary verb Was is used.
  • The specific rule for converting Past Continuous interrogative sentences into passive voice is: Was/Were + Subject + being + Past Participle (V3) + by + Agent?
  • Following this rule, the verb playing is transformed into being played to maintain the continuous aspect of the action.
  • The phrase by the musicians serves as the agent at the end of the sentence, completing the logical conversion while preserving the original meaning and tense.

 Additional Information

  • Understanding Tense Variations in Passive Voice:
  • Simple Past Tense: Uses the structure Was/Were + Subject + V3. Option 1 follows this but fails to capture the continuous nature of the original verb.
  • Present Perfect Tense: Uses Has/Have + Subject + been + V3. Option 3 is incorrect because it changes the tense from past to present perfect.
  • Present Continuous Tense: Uses Is/Am/Are + Subject + being + V3. Option 4 is incorrect because it changes the timeline of the event from the past to the present.
  • Continuous Aspect: In any continuous tense (present, past, or future), the addition of the word being is mandatory in the passive form to reflect that the action was ongoing.
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Question 530

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

In the given question, a sentence is divided into four parts and given in the alternatives (A), (B), (C), and (D). There is an error in one part. Choose the alternative containing that part of the sentence that has the error. Choosing the alternative with the error will be the answer.

The only disadvantage with teaching is repeating the same curriculum again and again.

  1. AOption (a)

    The only

  2. BOption (b)

    disadvantage with teaching

  3. COption (c)

    is repeating the same

  4. DOption (d)

    curriculum again and again.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

disadvantage with teaching

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is disadvantage with teaching.

Key Points

  • The segment The only acts as a specific determiner phrase that correctly limits the subject to a single negative aspect. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
  • The phrase disadvantage with teaching contains a prepositional error; in English grammar, the noun disadvantage is typically followed by the preposition of when referring to an inherent quality or feature of an activity. Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.
  • The part is repeating the same is grammatically sound, using the linking verb followed by a gerund (repeating) which serves as the subject complement to describe the disadvantage. Hence, statement 3 is correct.
  • The concluding segment curriculum again and again correctly uses the object of the gerund and an idiomatic adverbial phrase to emphasize the repetitive nature of the task. Hence, statement 4 is correct.

 Additional Information

  • Prepositional Collocations:
  • Definition: A collocation is a group of words that are frequently used together by native speakers.
  • Usage: The noun disadvantage specifically pairs with of (e.g., the disadvantage of technology) or to (e.g., a disadvantage to the students). Using with in this context is non-standard.
  • Gerunds as Complements:
  • A gerund is a verb form ending in -ing that functions as a noun.
  • In this sentence, repeating functions as a predicate nominative, providing more information about the subject (the disadvantage).
  • Emphasis in English:
  • Phrases like again and again or time and again are common rhetorical devices used to highlight the frequency or monotony of an action.
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Question 531

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Select the correct alternative to fill in the blank with the correct preposition in the following sentence.

The police could not collect sufficient evidence ________ him to prove him guilty.

  1. AOption (a)

    for

  2. BOption (b)

    about

  3. COption (c)

    of

  4. DOption (d)

    against

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

of

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is 'against'.

 

Key Points

  • The preposition 'against' is used to indicate opposition, disagreement, or in legal contexts, to indicate that someone is being accused of something.
  • The phrase 'evidence against someone' is a standard expression used to describe facts or information that suggest a person is guilty of a crime or wrongdoing.
  • The sentence implies that the police were looking for proof of the person's guilt, making 'against' the most appropriate fit.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 4.

 

Complete Sentence: "The police could not collect sufficient evidence against him to prove him guilty."

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: 'for' is incorrect because evidence 'for' someone would typically mean supportive evidence or evidence in their favor, which contradicts the goal of proving them guilty.
  • Option 2: 'about' is incorrect because it is too vague; while we can have information about someone, evidence specifically linking them to a crime is usually 'against' them.
  • Option 3: 'of' is incorrect because we usually say 'evidence of a crime' (e.g., evidence of theft), but not typically 'evidence of a person' in this context.
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Question 532

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

A part of the following sentence is underlined. Choose the option which can replace the underlined part to improve the sentence. In case Options A, B and C are not found suitable, choose Option D: "No Improvement Required."

The review panel concluded that the policy was replete in inconsistencies and therefore required immediate revision.

  1. AOption (a)

    replete with inconsistencies and therefore required

  2. BOption (b)

    replete of inconsistencies and therefore requiring

  3. COption (c)

    replete by inconsistencies and therefore requires

  4. DOption (d)

    No improvement required

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

replete with inconsistencies and therefore required

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is replete with inconsistencies and therefore required.

Key Points

  • The adjective replete is part of a specific prepositional collocation where it is almost exclusively followed by the preposition with to mean filled or well-supplied. Using in, of, or by in this context is grammatically incorrect.
  • The sentence follows a past tense narrative structure, established by the main reporting verb concluded and the subsequent linking verb was.
  • To maintain tense consistency and parallelism within the subordinate clause, the second action (governed by the same subject policy) must also be in the simple past tense. Therefore, required is the correct form to match was.
  • Option 1 correctly combines the idiomatic preposition with and the past tense verb required, ensuring the sentence is both grammatically sound and logically consistent.

 Additional Information

  • Understanding Prepositional Collocations:
  • Replete with: Formal term used for abundance or being full (e.g., a book replete with illustrations).
  • Full of: A more common alternative, but specifically requires the preposition of.
  • Fraught with: Typically used when something is filled with negative elements like danger, difficulties, or risks.
  • Abounding in/with: Used to indicate that something exists in large numbers or amounts.
  • Tense Sequencing Rules:
  • When the Principal Clause is in the Past Tense, the Subordinate Clause must also be in the Past Tense, unless it expresses a universal truth or a habitual action.
  • In this sentence, the need for revision is a specific past consequence of the panel's finding, necessitating the use of required over requires or requiring.
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Question 533

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Given below are six sentences taken from a paragraph. The first and the last sentences are numbered S1 and S2 and are placed in the first and last positions respectively and are fixed in their positions. The other four sentences between the first and last sentences are jumbled up and are numbered A, B, C, and D. Rearrange the jumbled sentences in a logical sequence keeping the unity and coherence of the paragraph intact. Choose the correct alternative that best describes the sequence.

S1. I remember once out at St. Cloud.

A. This Kzar is a great big yellow horse that looks like just nothing but run.

B. I never saw such a horse.

C. It was a big two hundred thousand franc race with seven entries and Kzar a big favourite.

D. I went around to the paddock to see the horses with my old man and you never saw such horses.

S2. He was being led around the paddocks with his head down and when he went by me I felt all hollow inside he was so beautiful.

  1. AOption (a)

    DABC

  2. BOption (b)

    ADBC

  3. COption (c)

    CDAB

  4. DOption (d)

    BADC

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

CDAB

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 3.

Key Points

  • The paragraph describes a specific memory of a horse race and the narrator’s reaction to a particular horse.
  • S1 is fixed as the opening sentence:
  • 'I remember once out at St. Cloud.' - This sets the setting for the narrative.
  • Sentence C follows S1 because it provides the context for what was happening at St. Cloud:
  • 'It was a big two hundred thousand franc race with seven entries and Kzar a big favourite.' - It defines the event and introduces the central subject, the horse named Kzar.
  • Sentence D is the next sentence as it transitions from the race details to the narrator's direct experience:
  • 'I went around to the paddock to see the horses with my old man and you never saw such horses.' - This establishes the physical location (paddock) and the act of observing the animals.
  • Sentence A follows D as it focuses on the specific horse that was the favorite:
  • 'This Kzar is a great big yellow horse that looks like just nothing but run.' - This gives a physical description of the horse mentioned in sentence C.
  • Sentence B follows A to emphasize the narrator's awe:
  • 'I never saw such a horse.' - This provides a personal emotive reaction to the physical description just given.
  • S2 is fixed as the concluding sentence:
  • 'He was being led around the paddocks with his head down and when he went by me I felt all hollow inside he was so beautiful.' - This perfectly complements the sequence by describing the horse's movement and the narrator's profound admiration.
  • The correct sequence is CDAB.

Coherent paragraph after rearrangement:

'I remember once out at St. Cloud. It was a big two hundred thousand franc race with seven entries and Kzar a big favourite. I went around to the paddock to see the horses with my old man and you never saw such horses. This Kzar is a great big yellow horse that looks like just nothing but run. I never saw such a horse. He was being led around the paddocks with his head down and when he went by me I felt all hollow inside he was so beautiful.'

SSC GD Constable 2026 Official Paper (Held On 09 May, 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English
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Question 534

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Given below are six sentences taken from a paragraph. The first and the last sentences are numbered S1 and S2 and are placed in the first and last positions respectively and are fixed in their positions. The other four sentences between the first and last sentences are jumbled up and are numbered A, B, C, and D. Rearrange the jumbled sentences in a logical sequence keeping the unity and coherence of the paragraph intact. Choose the correct alternative that best describes the sequence.

S1. In the dream I would be the age I really was, living the life I was really living, and I would discover that my mother was still alive.

A. She might be walking through a handsome hotel lobby, or lining up in an airport.

B. Sometimes I would find myself in our old kitchen, where my mother would be rolling out pie crust on the table, or washing the dishes in the battered cream-colored dishpan with the red rim.

C. But other times I would run into her on the street, in places where I would never have expected to see her.

D. (The fact is, she died when I was in my early twenties and she in her early fifties.)

S2. She would be looking quite well - not exactly youthful, not entirely untouched by the paralyzing disease that held her in its grip for a decade or more before her death, but so much better than I remembered that I would be astonished.

  1. AOption (a)

    DBCA

  2. BOption (b)

    CBDA

  3. COption (c)

    ADBC

  4. DOption (d)

    BDAC

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

DBCA

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 1.

Key Points

  • The paragraph describes a recurring dream about the narrator's late mother and the emotional and visual details of these encounters.
  • Sentence D follows S1 because it provides the necessary real-life context to the dream described in the opening sentence. While S1 mentions discovering the mother is still alive in a dream, Sentence D clarifies the reality: 'The fact is, she died when I was in my early twenties...'
  • Sentence B is the second sentence as it begins describing the specific scenarios of these dreams using the word 'Sometimes'. it depicts a familiar, domestic setting like the 'old kitchen'.
  • Sentence C follows B to provide a contrast to the familiar kitchen setting. The phrase 'But other times' directly links to the 'Sometimes' in sentence B, moving the setting to the 'street' and unexpected places.
  • Sentence A is the fourth sentence because it provides specific examples of the unexpected places mentioned in Sentence C, such as a 'hotel lobby' or an 'airport'.
  • S2 concludes the paragraph by describing the mother's physical appearance in these dream sequences, noting that she looked 'quite well' despite the 'paralyzing disease' she had in real life.
  • The logical sequence is DBCA.

Coherent paragraph after rearrangement:

'In the dream I would be the age I really was, living the life I was really living, and I would discover that my mother was still alive. (The fact is, she died when I was in my early twenties and she in her early fifties.) Sometimes I would find myself in our old kitchen, where my mother would be rolling out pie crust on the table, or washing the dishes in the battered cream-colored dishpan with the red rim. But other times I would run into her on the street, in places where I would never have expected to see her. She might be walking through a handsome hotel lobby, or lining up in an airport. She would be looking quite well - not exactly youthful, not entirely untouched by the paralyzing disease that held her in its grip for a decade or more before her death, but so much better than I remembered that I would be astonished.'

SSC GD Constable 2026 Official Paper (Held On 09 May, 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English
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Question 535

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

A part of the following sentence is underlined. Choose the option that can replace the underlined part to improve the sentence. If you feel Options A, B, or C do not improve the sentence, then choose Option D: "No improvement required."

They have decided to for hire a cruise ship for their anniversary celebration.

  1. AOption (a)

    decided for hiring a cruise ship

  2. BOption (b)

    decided to hire a cruise ship

  3. COption (c)

    decided for a cruise ship

  4. DOption (d)

    No improvement required

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

decided to hire a cruise ship

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is decided to hire a cruise ship.

Key Points

  • The original sentence contains a syntactic error in the phrase 'to for hire'. In English grammar, an infinitive marker 'to' should be followed directly by the base form of the verb. The inclusion of the preposition 'for' between the infinitive marker and the verb creates a redundancy and violates standard word order rules.
  • The verb decide is a transitive verb that typically requires a to-infinitive (to + verb) when it is used to express a choice or a resolution to perform a specific action. The structure decided to hire correctly follows this linguistic pattern, where 'to hire' serves as the infinitive phrase acting as the object of the decision.
  • In this context, the term hire functions as a verb meaning to obtain the use of something for a fee. By removing the unnecessary preposition 'for', the sentence achieves grammatical clarity and logical flow, making 'decided to hire a cruise ship' the only syntactically sound replacement.

 Additional Information

  • Infinitive vs. Gerund Collocations:
  • Specific verbs in English are followed by either an infinitive or a gerund (verb + -ing). Verbs like decide, plan, agree, and hope are strictly followed by infinitives.
  • Option 1 ('decided for hiring') is incorrect because it uses a prepositional gerund phrase where a to-infinitive is required. The verb decide does not collocate with the preposition 'for' when followed by an action.
  • Prepositional Usage of For:
  • The preposition for is generally used to indicate reason, purpose, or duration. While one can 'decide for' a specific noun (e.g., 'decided for the blue car'), it is not used to introduce a verbal action in the same way an infinitive does.
  • Option 3 ('decided for a cruise ship') removes the verb hire entirely, which changes the intended meaning of the sentence from the act of renting a vessel to simply choosing the vessel itself.
SSC GD Constable 2026 Official Paper (Held On 09 May, 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English
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Question 536

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on the passage:

The Pacific Salmon represent a keystone species found on the western shores of North America from California to southern Alaska. They are an iconic species known for their astonishingly complex life cycles and migratory nature - from their natal freshwater rivers, they travel to the sea, and when the time comes, return to the river they were born in to spawn and die. Following their death, the Pacific salmon contribute nutrients back into the streams they reside in, thereby playing a large role in the functioning of the food web and ecological systems. Additionally, Pacific salmon have spiritual and dietary importance to many Native American and First Nation communities, as well as economic importance to both commercial and recreational salmon fisheries.

Today, numerous sources threaten the survival of Pacific salmon populations. These threats to Pacific Salmon populations include over-fishing, habitat degradation, and climate change.

To mitigate the negative impact of these threats, there are a number of current conservation efforts to enhance and protect salmon habitats by increasing fish passage and improving water quality in rivers and streams. Therefore, in order to establish a solid foundation for effective conservation measures and to maintain healthy coastal ecosystems, there is a need to fully understand the complicated life cycle and ecological roles of the Pacific Salmon.

Where are Pacific Salmon primarily found?

  1. AOption (a)

    Gulf of Mexico

  2. BOption (b)

    Northern Atlantic Ocean

  3. COption (c)

    Eastern shores of North America

  4. DOption (d)

    Western shores of North America

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

Western shores of North America

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 4.

 

Key Points

  • According to the passage, Pacific Salmon are a keystone species found primarily on the western shores of North America.
  • The text explicitly states their geographical range extends from California in the south to southern Alaska in the north.
  • This region serves as the starting and ending point of their migratory life cycle, where they transition between freshwater rivers and the sea.
  • Thus, based on the specific details provided in the text, the correct location is the western shores.

Therefore, the correct answer is Western shores of North America.

 

Additional Information

  • Gulf of Mexico: This region is not mentioned in the passage and is located to the southeast of North America, whereas Pacific Salmon are native to the Pacific Ocean basin.
  • Northern Atlantic Ocean: While Atlantic Salmon exist, the passage specifically discusses Pacific Salmon and their role in the western coastal ecosystems.
  • Eastern shores of North America: The passage focuses on the western coast (California to Alaska), making this option geographically incorrect based on the provided text.
  • The location is critical because it supports the cultural and economic significance for Native American and First Nation communities residing in those specific areas.
SSC GD Constable 2026 Official Paper (Held On 09 May, 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English
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Question 537

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on the passage:

The Pacific Salmon represent a keystone species found on the western shores of North America from California to southern Alaska. They are an iconic species known for their astonishingly complex life cycles and migratory nature - from their natal freshwater rivers, they travel to the sea, and when the time comes, return to the river they were born in to spawn and die. Following their death, the Pacific salmon contribute nutrients back into the streams they reside in, thereby playing a large role in the functioning of the food web and ecological systems. Additionally, Pacific salmon have spiritual and dietary importance to many Native American and First Nation communities, as well as economic importance to both commercial and recreational salmon fisheries.

Today, numerous sources threaten the survival of Pacific salmon populations. These threats to Pacific Salmon populations include over-fishing, habitat degradation, and climate change.

To mitigate the negative impact of these threats, there are a number of current conservation efforts to enhance and protect salmon habitats by increasing fish passage and improving water quality in rivers and streams. Therefore, in order to establish a solid foundation for effective conservation measures and to maintain healthy coastal ecosystems, there is a need to fully understand the complicated life cycle and ecological roles of the Pacific Salmon.

What is the defining characteristic of Pacific Salmon's life cycle?

  1. AOption (a)

    They migrate from rivers to the sea and return to spawn.

  2. BOption (b)

    They spend their entire lives in freshwater environments.

  3. COption (c)

    They reproduce exclusively in marine environments.

  4. DOption (d)

    They do not return to their place of origin.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (a)A.

They migrate from rivers to the sea and return to spawn.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 1.

 

Key Points

  • The passage explicitly describes the Pacific Salmon as an iconic species known for its astonishingly complex life cycle and migratory nature.
  • The text details that they travel from their natal freshwater rivers to the sea.
  • A defining part of this cycle is their return to the exact river where they were born in order to spawn and die.
  • This specific migratory pattern—moving from freshwater to saltwater and back to the origin for reproduction—is the primary characteristic of their life cycle.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 1.

 

Supporting Quote: '...from their natal freshwater rivers, they travel to the sea, and when the time comes, return to the river they were born in to spawn and die.'

 

Additional Information

  • Option 2: This is incorrect because the text states they travel to the sea, meaning they do not stay in freshwater for their entire lives.
  • Option 3: This is incorrect because, while they live in the sea, they must return to freshwater rivers to spawn.
  • Option 4: This is incorrect as the hallmark of their behavior is specifically returning to their place of origin (natal rivers) to complete their life cycle.
SSC GD Constable 2026 Official Paper (Held On 09 May, 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English
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Question 538

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on the passage:

The Pacific Salmon represent a keystone species found on the western shores of North America from California to southern Alaska. They are an iconic species known for their astonishingly complex life cycles and migratory nature - from their natal freshwater rivers, they travel to the sea, and when the time comes, return to the river they were born in to spawn and die. Following their death, the Pacific salmon contribute nutrients back into the streams they reside in, thereby playing a large role in the functioning of the food web and ecological systems. Additionally, Pacific salmon have spiritual and dietary importance to many Native American and First Nation communities, as well as economic importance to both commercial and recreational salmon fisheries.

Today, numerous sources threaten the survival of Pacific salmon populations. These threats to Pacific Salmon populations include over-fishing, habitat degradation, and climate change.

To mitigate the negative impact of these threats, there are a number of current conservation efforts to enhance and protect salmon habitats by increasing fish passage and improving water quality in rivers and streams. Therefore, in order to establish a solid foundation for effective conservation measures and to maintain healthy coastal ecosystems, there is a need to fully understand the complicated life cycle and ecological roles of the Pacific Salmon.

Why are Pacific Salmon considered a keystone species?

  1. AOption (a)

    Pacific Salmon support biodiversity through their role as a food source for many animals (e.g., bears and birds).

  2. BOption (b)

    Pacific Salmon influence food-web structures and processes within freshwater and marine ecosystems.

  3. COption (c)

    Nutrient cycling from Pacific Salmon contributes significantly to the health of river systems and enhances habitat quality.

  4. DOption (d)

    The death of Pacific Salmon provides nutrients to the ecosystem, which plays a key role in maintaining ecological balance.

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (d)D.

The death of Pacific Salmon provides nutrients to the ecosystem, which plays a key role in maintaining ecological balance.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is The death of Pacific Salmon provides nutrients to the ecosystem, which plays a key role in maintaining ecological balance.

 

Key Points

  • The passage identifies Pacific Salmon as a keystone species found on the western shores of North America.
  • A defining part of their life cycle is returning to their natal rivers to spawn and die.
  • The text explicitly states that following their death, these salmon contribute nutrients back into the streams, which supports the food web and ecological systems.
  • This nutrient cycling is essential for maintaining ecological balance, as it transfers vital marine-derived minerals to freshwater and terrestrial environments.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 4.

 

Additional Information

  • A keystone species is an organism that helps define an entire ecosystem; its removal would cause a significant shift or collapse in the environmental structure.
  • The migratory nature of salmon (moving from freshwater to sea and back) makes them a unique link between marine and terrestrial ecosystems.
  • While salmon also serve as a food source for predators (like bears and birds), the provided answer specifically focuses on the nutrient contribution post-death as highlighted in the passage.
  • Conservation efforts today focus on protecting these habitats from over-fishing, habitat degradation, and climate change to preserve this ecological role.
SSC GD Constable 2026 Official Paper (Held On 09 May, 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English
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Question 539

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on the passage:

The Pacific Salmon represent a keystone species found on the western shores of North America from California to southern Alaska. They are an iconic species known for their astonishingly complex life cycles and migratory nature - from their natal freshwater rivers, they travel to the sea, and when the time comes, return to the river they were born in to spawn and die. Following their death, the Pacific salmon contribute nutrients back into the streams they reside in, thereby playing a large role in the functioning of the food web and ecological systems. Additionally, Pacific salmon have spiritual and dietary importance to many Native American and First Nation communities, as well as economic importance to both commercial and recreational salmon fisheries.

Today, numerous sources threaten the survival of Pacific salmon populations. These threats to Pacific Salmon populations include over-fishing, habitat degradation, and climate change.

To mitigate the negative impact of these threats, there are a number of current conservation efforts to enhance and protect salmon habitats by increasing fish passage and improving water quality in rivers and streams. Therefore, in order to establish a solid foundation for effective conservation measures and to maintain healthy coastal ecosystems, there is a need to fully understand the complicated life cycle and ecological roles of the Pacific Salmon.

What are the major threats to Pacific Salmon populations today?

  1. AOption (a)

    Pollution from industrial waste and urban runoff

  2. BOption (b)

    Over-fishing, habitat degradation, and climate change

  3. COption (c)

    Increased predation by marine mammals and birds

  4. DOption (d)

    Loss of genetic diversity due to hatchery practices

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (b)B.

Over-fishing, habitat degradation, and climate change

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 2.

 

Key Points

  • According to the second paragraph of the passage, the survival of Pacific salmon populations is currently threatened by multiple sources.
  • The text explicitly identifies these threats as over-fishing, habitat degradation, and climate change.
  • The passage mentions these specific factors as the primary drivers necessitating conservation efforts to protect salmon habitats and maintain healthy coastal ecosystems.
  • Therefore, based on the provided text, Option 2 is the most accurate description of the major threats.

Therefore, the correct answer is Over-fishing, habitat degradation, and climate change.

 

Additional Information

  • Over-fishing: This involves harvesting salmon at a rate faster than they can replenish their numbers through spawning.
  • Habitat degradation: This refers to the physical and chemical decline of the rivers and streams where salmon spawn, often addressed by improving water quality and fish passage.
  • Climate change: Shifts in global temperatures and weather patterns can disrupt the complex migratory nature and lifecycle of the salmon from freshwater to the sea and back.
  • Options involving pollution, predation, or genetic diversity are not mentioned in this specific text as the primary threats to the populations.
SSC GD Constable 2026 Official Paper (Held On 09 May, 2026 Shift 2) (Previous Year Paper)·English
View full paper

Question 540

SSC GD Constable 2026• English• English

Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions based on the passage:

The Pacific Salmon represent a keystone species found on the western shores of North America from California to southern Alaska. They are an iconic species known for their astonishingly complex life cycles and migratory nature - from their natal freshwater rivers, they travel to the sea, and when the time comes, return to the river they were born in to spawn and die. Following their death, the Pacific salmon contribute nutrients back into the streams they reside in, thereby playing a large role in the functioning of the food web and ecological systems. Additionally, Pacific salmon have spiritual and dietary importance to many Native American and First Nation communities, as well as economic importance to both commercial and recreational salmon fisheries.

Today, numerous sources threaten the survival of Pacific salmon populations. These threats to Pacific Salmon populations include over-fishing, habitat degradation, and climate change.

To mitigate the negative impact of these threats, there are a number of current conservation efforts to enhance and protect salmon habitats by increasing fish passage and improving water quality in rivers and streams. Therefore, in order to establish a solid foundation for effective conservation measures and to maintain healthy coastal ecosystems, there is a need to fully understand the complicated life cycle and ecological roles of the Pacific Salmon.

Discuss the cultural and economic significance of Pacific Salmon, which includes:

  1. AOption (a)

    Pacific Salmon, during their migration, create a safe pathway for fishermen

  2. BOption (b)

    Pacific Salmon does not have any cultural or economic significance

  3. COption (c)

    Pacific Salmon have spiritual and dietary importance for Native American and First Nation communities.

  4. DOption (d)

    Pacific salmon symbolizes laziness and procrastination, and the natives follow that symbolism to the core

View answer & explanation

Correct answer

Answer: (c)C.

Pacific Salmon have spiritual and dietary importance for Native American and First Nation communities.

Why this answer is correct

The correct answer is Option 3.

 

Key Points

  • According to the passage, Pacific Salmon hold immense cultural significance, specifically mentioned as having spiritual and dietary importance.
  • The communities that specifically value them in this way are Native American and First Nation communities.
  • Beyond cultural ties, the passage also highlights their economic importance to both commercial and recreational salmon fisheries.
  • Therefore, the statement in Option 3 accurately reflects the cultural and dietary roles described in the text.

Therefore, the correct answer is Option 3.

 

Additional Information

  • Option 1: The passage describes the salmon's migration as a biological process for spawning, not as a means to create safe pathways for fishermen.
  • Option 2: This is factually incorrect based on the text, which explicitly outlines the spiritual, dietary, and economic roles of the species.
  • Option 4: This option introduces negative symbolism such as laziness, which is not mentioned in the passage; instead, the species is described as iconic with astonishingly complex life cycles.

How should I prepare for English Comprehension in SSC GD Constable?

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.