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 CONTENTS

SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-1-48

1. Synonyms 1-13

2. Antonyms 14-27

3. Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 28-56

4. Spotting Errors 57-78

5. Sentence Improvement 79-100

6. One Word Substitution 101-114

7. Spelling Test 115-123

8. Parajumbles 124-133

9. Idioms/Phrases 134-150

10. Speeches/Voices 151-167

11. Reading Comprehension 168-200

12. Essential English Grammar 201–216

 SSC ENGLISH TOPIC-WISE
Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

Synonyms 9. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.

Jubilant (SSC Sten. 2022)
1. Select the most appropriate synonym to substitute the
(a) Overjoyed (b) Terrified
bracketed word in the given sentence.
(c) Journeyed (d) Stunted
In the twentieth century, many (radical) intellectuals
10. Select the most appropriate synonym of the bracketed word
embraced the mass media. (SSC MTS 2022)
in the following sentence to fill in the blank.
(a) sabbatical (b) egotistical
The athlete’s perseverance and mental toughness _____
(c) sceptical (d) fanatical
(facilitate) her to overcome adversity and achieve her goals.
2. Select the appropriate synonym for the underlined word.
(SSC MTS 2023)
Make sure that you always challenge yourself.
(a) restricted (b) enabled
(SSC MTS 2022) (c) limited (d) hindered
(a) Carry (b) Approve 11. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
(c) Question (d) Place Repulsive (SSC MTS 2023)
3. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. (a) Attractive (b) Reliable
Flout (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II) (c) Disgusting (d) Uniform
(a) Rude (b) Poke (c) Rash (d) Defy 12. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
4. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. Resentment (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I)
Faithful (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II) (a) Calmness (b) Happiness
(a) Wavering (b) Devoted (c) Anger (d) Relaxation
(c) Untrustworthy (d) Fickle 13. Select the most appropriate synonym for the underlined
5. Read the given sentence carefully and fill in the blank by word in the following sentence.
selecting the correct synonym of the word given in the (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I)
brackets. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) The politician's pompous rhetoric during the campaign
The authority refused to pay any heed to the _________ failed to garner much support from the public.
demands made by the workers. (Trivial) (a) Conciliatory
(a) majestic (b) conceited (b) Benign
(c) insignificant (d) idiotic (c) Supercilious
6. Select the most appropriate synonym of the underlined word (d) Diplomatic
in the following sentence. 14. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
The artist skilfully captured the intricate contours of the Humble (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
mountain range. (SSC Sten. 2022) (a) Beautiful (b) Keen
(a) Complex (b) Systematic (c) Amusing (d) Modest
(c) Fantastic (d) Reasonable 15. Select the most appropriate synonyms of the given word.
7. Select the most appropriate synonym of the bracketed word Haphazard (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
in the following sentence to fill in the blank. (a) Random (b) Sociable
The Government is planning to irrigate the ____ desert (c) Aggressive (d) Confident
land by using water from the nearby river. (parched) 16. You are preparing a speech for the upcoming function,
(SSC Sten. 2022) Select a synonym for the highlighted word to make it better.
(a) and (b) rustic
Despite the advancement in technology many rural areas
(c) lush (d) only in developing countries still lack access to basic necessities.
8. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
Lavish (SSC Sten. 2022)
(a) Unique (b) Stylish (a) Desist (b) Disguise
(c) Meagre (d) Luxurious (c) Avenue (d) Apathy
N-2 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

17. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. 2. Select the appropriate antonym for the underlined word.
Justifiable (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) The arms and legs lay in a careless way.
(a) Indefensible (b) Neutral (SSC MTS 2022)
(c) Maintainable (c) Reasonable (a) Vigilant (b) Unsafe
(c) Forgetful (d) Neglectful
18. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
3. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the underlined
Dreadful (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) word. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
(a) Feeble (b) Terrible The young girl is very audacious in every activity.
(c) Auspicious (d) Propitious (a) Ferocious (b) Timid
19. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. (c) Bold (d) Bright
4. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
Site (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
Sanitise (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
(a) Lap (b) Location (a) Pollute (b) Sacrifice
(c) Globe (d) Pull (c) Devote (d) Purify
20. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. 5. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
Abandon (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) Absolve (SSC Sten. 2022)
(a) Perish (b) Desert (a) Resolve (b) Pardon
(c) Prolong (d) Retain (c) Condemn (d) Gratify
6. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
21. Select the most appropriate synonym of the underlined
(SSC Sten. 2022)
word. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I)
(a) Opaque Intelligible (b) Transient
From the outset of the pandemic, the United Nations system
mobilised early and comprehensively. It led on the global (c) Volatile (d) Conventional
health response, provided life-saving humanitarian 7. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
assistance to the most vulnerable, established instruments Reluctantly (SSC Sten. 2022)
for rapid responses to the socio-economic impact and laid (a) Smartly (b) Unwillingly
out a broad policy agenda for action on all fronts. (c) Zealously (d) Fairly
(a) arrogant (b) poor 8. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
(c) adaptable (d) at risk Collapse (SSC Sten. 2022)
22. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. (a) Collaborate (b) Flourish
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I) (c) Flounder (d) Slip
Immerse 9. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
(a) Emerge (b) Involve Compatible (SSC Sten. 2022)
(c) Distant (d) Uncover (a) Energetic (b) Inconsistent
23. Select the most appropriate synonym of the word given in (c) Immaculate (d) Helpful
brackets to fill in the blank. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) 10. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
The doctor has __________ (advised) medicine for the Ruthless (SSC Sten. 2022)
treatment of the disease (a) Resolute (b) Hostile
(a) prevented (b) proscribed (c) A fluent (d) Lenient
(c) presented (d) prescribed 11. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
24. Identify the pair of synonyms from the underlined words in General (SSC Sten. 2022)
the given sentence. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) (a) MIxture (b) Specific
It was a fairly . foul day , as omens could be seen in (c) Common (d) Composite
abundance from the threshold of his border town ever since
12. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
the dawn struck.
Feud (SSC MTS 2023)
(a) fairly, abundance (b) foul, omens
(a) Gross (b) Peril
(c) day, border (d) threshold, drawn
(c) Harmony (d) Vigour
Antonyms 13. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
Meagre (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I)
1. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word. (a) Regional
Viscous (SSC MTS 2022) (b) Racial
(a) Grim (b) Brutal (c) Stupid
(c) Watery (d) Thick (d) Generous
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-3

14. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the underlined 24. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the underlined
word. (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I) word. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I)
Wealthier countries are obligated to fulfil a commitment made It was evident from his gestures that he was feeling guilty.
in the Paris Agreement to provide $100 billion a year in (a) Correct (b) Hidden
international climate finance. (c) Profuse (d) Visible
(a) feeble (b) drape 25. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the underlined
(c) breach (d) hale word. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
15. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. The reputed officer was removed from his post as he was
Fundamental (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I) having a clandestine affair.
(a) Impact (b) Neutral (a) Surreptitious (b) Overt
(c) Least (d) Link (c) Amorous (d) Casual
16. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. 26. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the underlined
Sharp (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II) word. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
(a) Blunt (b) Kindled The placid conversation between the two cricketers on a
(c) Magnetic (d) Handy TV show aroused much controversy.
17. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the word (a) Sardonic (b) Inappropriate
'moving' in the given sentence and choose the correct (c) Informal (d) Angry
option. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test
The old grandfather clock chimed loudly, marking the
passage of time with its steady tick - tock. 1. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(a) Steady (b) Marking Police used _____ evidence to convict a victim who was
innocent. (SSC MTS 2022)
(c) Chimed (d) Passage
(a) stunted (b) fabricated
18. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. (c) hateful (d) authentic
Catastrophic (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) 2. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(a) Calamity (b) Fortuitous Wheat is widely _____ but the output is not large.
(c) Fiasco (d) Sabotage (SSC MTS 2022)
(a) gross (b) grilled
19. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM for the highlighted
(c) grown (d) groan
word. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
3. A sentence has been given with a blank to be filled with an
The negligent attitude of the cops was criticised. appropriate option. Choose the correct alternative.
(a) attentive (b) reluctant The person driving the car _____ control over the wheels
(c) amplify (d) bored and knocked her down. (SSC MTS 2022)
20. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. (a) lose (b) lost
(c) losing (d) loose
Damp (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
4. Fill in the blank with the most appropriate choice.
(a) Misty (b) Arid His intent was to become sole lord and to _____ his tiny
(c) Tropical (d) Soaked principality. (SSC MTS 2022)
21. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. (a) subsidize (b) aggrandize
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I) (c) jeopardize (d) methodize
Meticulous
DIRECTIONS Qs. (5-9): In the following passage, some words
(a) Untidy (b) Heedful
have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the
(c) Careful (d) Careless
alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each
22. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
number. (SSC MTS 2022)
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I)
Hinder Salvador Dali (1) ________ a prominent Spanish surrealist painter
(a) Aid (b) Force (2) ________ in Figueres, Catalonia, on 11 May 1904. Dali's father
(c) Domesticate (d) Monitor was strict in the education of his children unlike (3) _______
23. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. mother. Dali had a brother named Salvador (4) _______ was born
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I) nine months before him and died of gastroenteritis. When he
Nervous was five. Dali was taken to his brother's grave and was told that
(a) Courageous he was his brother's (5) ______.
(b) Casual 5. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank no. 1.
(c) Shaky (a) was (b) were
(d) Hesitant (c) has (d) is
N-4 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

6. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank no. 2. 14. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 1.
(a) rooted (b) bought (a) spotted (b) spot
(c) brought (d) born (c) spotting (d) spots
7. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank no. 3. 15. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 4.
(a) their (b) him (a) that (b) those
(c) her (d) his (c) this (d) these
8. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank no. 4. 16. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 2.
(a) whose (b) who (a) sanction (b) confirm
(c) whom (d) that (c) consent (d) settle
9. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank no. 5. 17. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(a) ordination (b) detonation Robin watched as the smoke _________ steadily from the
(c) reincarnation (d) stagnation chimney. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
(a) left (b) rose
10. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blanks.
(c) went (d) hung
Fingernails and toenails helped our _________ to climb
18. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
trees, peel fruits and use simple tools. While their colour
By this time tomorrow, I _______ the work assigned to me.
and condition offer clues about your ________health. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
Nail polish turns them into fashion accessories. (a) will do (b) will have done
(a) ancestors; overall (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II) (c) will be done (d) will have did
(b) predecessor; universal 19. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(c) forefather; all in all You use an ________ to steer a boat.
(d) general; altogether (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
11. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blanks. (a) are (b) oar
Reptiles _________ from amphibians. For a long period of (c) or (d) ore
160 million years in earth’s history, reptiles were the 20. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
dominant form of life on the planet and _________ in an The girl was ________ as she was drenched in the rain.
enormous variety of shapes and sizes. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
(SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II) (a) bolt (b) tight
(a) developed; continued (b) came; exhausted (c) cold (d) gold
(c) evolved; existed (d) involved; lived DIRECTIONS (Qs. 21-24): In the following passage, some words
12. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the
Quarrels result in_________ confrontations and bring all most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
conversations to a complete standstill.
(SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II) (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
The ongoing fight for social justice and equality continues to be
(a) cold (b) hot
a significant global 1. _____________. Movements advocating
(c) heated (d) disputed
for racial, gender and LGBTQ+ equality, as well as addressing
DIRECTIONS Qs. (13-16): In the following passage, some words systemic discrimination and injustice, have 2.
have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the __________momentum in recent years. People are increasingly
most appropriate option to fill in each blank. recognising the importance of dismantling structures that 3.
____________ inequality and fostering inclusivity in all aspects
(SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
of society. Calls for justice, representation and equal opportunities
Astronomers have discovered 62 new moons orbiting the ringed
have sparked conversations and initiatives aimed at creating a
planet Saturn. Though some of the moons had been (1)________ more equitable world. It is crucial to 4. __________ in meaningful
as early as 2019, it takes more than sighting an object close to a dialogue, challenge biases and actively promote diversity and to
planet to (2) ________ it is a moon and not an asteroid making a build a society where everyone has equal rights and opportunities.
brief close passage to that planet.Performing a painstaking 21. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 1.
(3) ________ of matching objects detected on different nights (a) drift (b) focus
over the course of 24 months, the team tracked 63 objects that (c) dispersion (d) divergence
they ended up confirming as moons. One of (4) ________ satellites 22. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 2.
was revealed back in 2021, with the remaining 62 moons gradually (a) provided (b) gained
announced over the past few weeks. (c) scattered (d) invoked
13. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 3. 23. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 3.
(a) progress (b) practice (a) refract (b) cease
(c) process (d) product (c) perpetuate (d) terminate
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-5

24. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 4. 34. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(a) evolve (b) engage The hiring manager has already offered you the job; now,
(c) manifest (d) coincide ___________ to accept or decline the offer.
25. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. (a) a penny for your thoughts (SSC MTS 2023)
To avoid _____ on the roads, proper signs and signals (b) the ball is in your court
should be put up. (SSC Sten. 2022) (c) pull your leg
(d) get your act together
(a) congestion (b) sleeping
35. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(c) stuffing (d) chuffing Oberon doesn’t like the way Demetrius ________ to
26. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. Helena. (Credit: A Midsummer Night’s Dream)
Hitler's concentration camps ______ the bodies of the dead (SSC MTS 2023)
captives subsequently. (SSC Sten. 2022) (a) talked (b) talks
(a) conspired (b) exaggerated (c) talking (d) to talk
(c) resounded (d) mutilated
DIRECTIONS Qs. (36-40): In the following passage, some words
27. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the
The fire damaged the utensils so much that it was alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each
impossible to _____ them. (SSC Sten. 2022) blank. (SSC MTS 2023)
(a) retreat (b) retrieve
That evening we sat in the courtyard of the hotel once more,
(c) retract (d) retrace (1) ____________ the sun sink below the western isles. I told
28. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. Alexi what had happened that day. I (2) ____________ I could
Panna in Madhya Pradesh is the diamond mining capital of glimpse the grey stone wall of Lismore House (3)___________
India, and fortune-seekers have been ____ the territory for its island hilltop, the red light of the setting sun glinting from the
years in pursuit of the precious stones. windows, and from there the wasted frame of Jonathan Blake
(SSC Sten. 2022) gazing out across the sea, on nothing, his boy waiting for him to
(a) neglecting (b) scouring die. But it was my (4)____________, simply the image on my
(c) ignoring (d) abandoning mind, like the image burned on to your eyes when you have
29. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. (5) ____________ too long at the sun, the passing footprint of
There was utter ____ after the explosion. (SSC Sten. 2022) a creature long gone.
(a) pacifism (b) belting 36. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 1.
(c) mayhem (d) force (a) watching (b) wallowing
30. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. (c) risking (d) practising
I could sense the ____ between husband and wife. 37. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 2.
(a) fancied (b) groped
(SSC Sten. 2022)
(c) imbibed (d) translated
(a) jangling (b) raucous 38. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 3.
(c) disharmony (d) tunelessness (a) off (b) on
31. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. (c) aside (d) for
Asanas, or yoga postures, primarily serve as a lubrication 39. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 4.
practice for the body's joints, muscles, ligaments, and other (a) dribble (b) straw
parts, ____ circulation and flexibility. (c) fantasy (d) habitat
(SSC Sten. 2022) 40. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 5.
(a) boosting (b) abating (a) resumed (b) rusted
(c) retrenching (d) dwindling (c) blocked (d) stared
32. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. 41. Choose the appropriate option to make the following
Th e amount of sleep you require changes greatly sentence grammatically correct.
throughout your life, ____ on your age, activity level, (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
overall health, and lifestyle patterns. (SSC Sten. 2022) Neither of the biscuits you gave me ____ chocolate chips.
(a) correlating (b) suspecting (a) contains (b) are contained
(c) contain (d) is contain
(c) depending (d) distrusting
42. Select the correct spelling from the given options to fill in
33. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank.
the blank. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
Hardik Pandya hit four ________ fours and scored 72 runs
He was _____ going abroad for his further studies.
in the match. (SSC MTS 2023)
(a) contemplating (b) cuntempltaing
(a) continuous (b) consecutive
(c) cuntemplating (d) contempltaing
(c) ongoing (d) constant
N-6 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

43. Select the most appropriate tense form to fill in the blank. providing crucial ecosystem services such as carbon
Mohnish and Ravi _____ to Canada next month. sequestration and climate regulation. It is also home to
(SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II) (5) __________ communities that have thrived within its rich
(a) are moving (b) has moving confines for centuries, preserving their traditions and deep
(c) is moving (d) has move connection to the land.
44. Select the most appropriate homonym to fill in the blanks 50. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1.
of the given sentences. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II) (a) reaches (b) lenghts
A. I use a ____ to weigh my ingredients while cooking. (c) amounts (d) spans
B. The mountaineer is going to ____ the rocky hills. 51. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2.
(a) climb (b) scale (a) gauged (b) rated
(c) horn (d) crawl
(c) estimated (d) evaluated
45. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
52. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3.
(SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
Stanley _________ to play the violin now, with an amateur (a) great (b) acclaimed
instructor. (c) renowned (d) pre - eminent
(a) had learnt (b) will learn 53. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.
(c) is learning (d) was learning (a) vigour (b) spirited
Directions Qs. (46-49): In the following passage, some words (c) vibrant (d) lavish
have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the 54. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.
most appropriate option to fill in each blank. (a) late (b) ancient
(SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II) (c) indigenous (d) organic
Girls have been the 1. ____ of many crimes in India for years. The 55. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
most fearful crime was female foeticide, in which girls were killed (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I)
in the 2. ____ of the mother after sex determination through The young one of a lion is called a ________.
ultrasound. 'Save the Girl Child' 3. ____ has been launched by (a) chick (b) colt
the government to end gender-selective abortions of female (c) cub (d) calf
foetuses as well as other crimes 4. ____ the girl child. 56. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
46. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I)
(a) scapegoats (b) victims Eshwar Chandra Vidyasagar fought hard against_________
(c) victors (d) sites practices which affected Indian society of his time.
47. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2. (a) All evil (b) many evil
(a) liver (b) intestine (c) most evil (d) more evil
(c) kidney (d) womb DIRECTIONS Qs. (57-61): In the following passage, some words
48. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3. have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the
(a) campaign (b) enterprise most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
(c) campfire (d) undertaking (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I)
49. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4. Fountains are used today to decorate city parks and squares; to
(a) across (b) through honour individuals or events; for recreation (1)________ for
(c) against (d) for entertainment. A splash pad or spray pool allows city residents
to enter, get wet and cool off in summer. The musical fountain
Direction (Question no. 50 - 54): In the following passage some
(2)________ moving jets of water, coloured lights and recorded
words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select
music, controlled by a computer, for dramatic effects. Fountains
the most appropriate option for each blank. can (3)________ also be musical in struments played
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) (4)________ obstruction of one or more of their water jets.
The Amazon rainforest is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that Drinking fountains provide fresh (5)________ in public buildings,
(1) __________ across several South American countries, parks and public spaces.
including Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador. Covering an 57. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 1.
(2) ________ area of 5.5 million square kilometers, it is the largest (a) nor (b) because
tropical rainforest on Earth. The Amazon jungle is (3) __________ (c) and (d) yet
for its remarkable biodiversity, harbouring an astonishing array
58. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 2.
of plant and animal species that are still being discovered and
(a) combines (b) combined
studied. The dense vegetation of the jungle creates a (4) ______
and complex ecosystem, supporting countless species and (c) be combined (d) combine
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-7

59. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 3. 67. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank
(a) themselves (b) himself number 2.
(c) itself (d) herself (a) disinfected (b) soiled
60. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 4. (c) moulded (d) recycled
(a) with (b) on 68. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3.
(c) by (d) off (a) through (b) out
61. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 5. (c) down (d) even
69. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.
(a) positive thought (b) drinking water
(a) accumulating
(c) flow of money (d) melodious music
(b) inhibiting
62. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(c) demanding
Many students do not _____________ attention in botany
(d) converting
class. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
(a) exhibit (b) drive Spotting Errors
(c) pay (d) trace
1. Find the part of the given sentence that has an error in it. If
63. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
there is no error, choose 'No error'. (SSC MTS 2022)
Tia wanted a dog that was __________ than Larry’s dog.
Restoring soil health would help at mitigate the effects of
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
climate change.
(a) smarty and strong (b) smartest and strongest
(a) help at mitigate the
(c) smarter and stronger (d) smart and strong
(b) effects of climate change.
64. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(c) Restoring soil health would
The management wants to ______________ restrictions
(d) No error
at the workplace. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
2. Find the part of the given sentence that has an error in it. If
(a) break (b) impose there is no error, choose 'No error'.
(c) settle (d) encourage Adding aloe vera gel will prevent the hand sanitizer of
65. Select the correct homonym from the given options to fill in drying out your skin. (SSC MTS 2022)
the blank. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) (a) No error
The wind________ so powerfully that the door closed. (b) drying out your skin
(a) below (b) blew (c) will prevent the hand sanitizer of
(c) blues (d) blue (d) Adding aloe vera gel
DIRECTIONS Qs. (66 - 69): In the following passage, some 3. Find the part of the given sentence that has an error in it. If
words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select there is no error, choose 'No error'. (SSC MTS 2022)
the most appropriate option to fill in each blank. In my opinion, you should went for higher studies in
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) London.
The effects of plastic bags on the environment are really (1)______ (a) No error
(b) In my opinion,
devastating because there is no disposal method that will really
(c) you should went for
help eliminate the problem. The biggest problem with them is that
(d) higher studies in London
once they have been (2)______, they end up In the trash, which
4. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
then ends up in the landfill or is burned. The indefinite period of
Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
time that it takes for the average plastic bag to break (3)______
The police could not / hold on the people / for long as they
can be literally hundreds of years. Throughout the world, plastic
/ gathered in large numbers
bags are responsible for suffocation and deaths of woodland
(a) for long as they (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
animals as well as (4)______ soil nutrients. The land litter that is
(b) hold on the people
made up of plastic bags has the potential to kill over and over
(c) The police could not
again. It has been estimated that one bag has the potential to
(d) gathered in large numbers
inadvertently kill one animal per every three months due to
5. Parts of the following sentence have been given as options.
unintentional digestion or inhalation. There are always Select the option that contains an error.
alternatives to plastic bags and the search for more alternatives The students were able to get better from college early so
continues. they went to the movies. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
66. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank (a) to get better from
number 1. (b) went to the movies
(a) vaguely (b) randomly (c) The students were able
(c) quite (d) soldom (d) college early so they
N-8 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

6. Parts of the following sentence have been given as options. 14. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One
Select the option that contains an error. of them may contain an error. Select the part that contains
Everyone should respect those parents, teachers, and the error from the given options. If you don't find any error,
elders. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) mark 'No error' as your answer.
(a) and elders. (b) respect those Thirty miles/are/a long way to walk. (SSC Sten. 2022)
(c) Everyone should (d) parents, teachers (a) No error (b) Thirty miles
7. Parts of the following sentence have been given as options.
(c) a long way to walk (d) are
Select the option that contains an error.
(SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) 15. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
This is the book whom I wanted to buy. Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
(a) This is (b) the book Ramya, Soumya's sister, / always tells / Kiran that / she will
(c) whom I (d) wanted to buy helped him. (SSC Sten. 2022)
8. The following sentence has been divided into four parts. (a) always tells (b) kiran that
One of them contains an error. Select the part that contains (c) Ramya, Soumya's sister, (d) she will helped him
the error from the given options. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) 16. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One
They were / married happily / before she / quit her job. of them may contain an error. Select the part that contains
A B C D the error from the given options. If you don't find any error,
(a) D (b) A mark 'No error' as your answer.
(c) B (d) C (1) Ravi walked / (2) up to a Principal's cabin / (3) but could
9. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of not meet him. / (4) No error (SSC Sten. 2022)
them may contain an error. Select the part that contains the
(a) 4 (b) 3
error from the given options. If you don’t find any error,
mark ‘No error’ as your answer. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) (c) 1 (d) 2
They want to live in first floor of this building. 17. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
(a) of this building (b) live in first floor Identify the segment that contains an error.
(c) No error (d) They want to Naira promise me/ to show me how to / fish for salmon, /
10. The given sentence has an error. Choose the option that but he never had the time. (SSC Sten. 2022)
corrects the error (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) (a) Naira promise me (b) to show me how to
Throw a rounder stone to create ripples in the water. (c) but he never had the time (d) fish for salmon
(a) Throw the roundest stone to create ripples in the water. 18. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
(b) Throw a more rounder stone to create ripples in the Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
water. Nothing hinders the cat / from reaching its master /
(c) Throw a more round stone to create ripples in the water. whenever it listening / to his voice. (SSC Sten. 2022)
(d) Throw a round stone to create ripples in the water. (a) from reaching its master
11. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
(b) Nothing hinders the cat
Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
We / has seen / that movie / before. (c) whenever it listening
(SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) (d) to his voice
(a) We (b) that movie 19. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
(c) before (d) has seen Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
12. Parts of the following sentence have been given as options. You can have accused / me of being lazy, / but I will not
Select the option that contains an error. finish / the project right now. (SSC Sten. 2022)
(SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) (a) the project right now (b) me of being lazy,
The speaker’s emphasiss is on the present-day problems (c) You can have accused (d) but I will not finish
that are being faced by ordinary men of India. 20. One of the following parts of the given sentence may
(a) The speaker’s emphasiss is contain an error. Select the part that contains the error from
(b) that are being faced the given options. If you don't find any error, mark 'No
(c) on the present-day problems error' as your answer.
(d) by ordinary men of India
Jaya takes classes for two months to pass the National
13. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
Eligibility test. (SSC Sten. 2022)
Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
(a) To pass the National Eligibility test
Communicating what/you felt/wasn't always/easy in Rita.
(b) No error
(SSC Sten. 2022)
(c) For two months
(a) Communicating what (b) you felt
(d) Takes classes
(c) wasn't always (d) easy in Rita
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-9

21. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One 27. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
of them may contain an error. Select the part that contains Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
the error from the given options. If you don't find any error, Babbal is/a oldest member/in our/ Black Ice Club.
mark 'No Error' as your answer. (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I)
Stella usually manages / the waste materials and / disposed (a) in our (b) Black Ice Club
them meticulously. (SSC Sten. 2022) (c) Babbal is (d) a oldest member
(a) Stella usually manages 28. Parts of the given sentence have been underlined. One of
(b) disposed them meticulously the parts may contain an error. Select the option that rectifies
the error. If you don't find any error, mark 'No error' as your
(c) No error
answer. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
(d) the waste materials and Those players who chose not to play in the league were
22. Parts of the following sentence have been given as options. banned from playing in an World Cup.
Select the option that contains an error. (a) No error (b) play in a league
All these things happen/ because she do not / pay heed to (c) play in league (d) the World Cup
my words. (SSC MTS 2023) 29. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One
(a) pay heed to my words of them may contain an errror. Select the part that contains
(b) All these things happen the error from the given options. If you don't find any error,
(c) No error mark 'No error' as your answer. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
(d) because she do not Sincere students / like you and he should study / regularly
23. The following sentence has been split into four segments. to pass the examination.
Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error. (a) Sincere students
Throughout my career as a journalist, / I covered many (b) like you and he should study
important stories and / interviewed numerous individuals,
(c) regularly to pass the examination.
which allow me / to share important information and insights
(d) No error
with my readers. (SSC MTS 2023)
30. There is an error in the given sentence. From the options
(a) to share important information and insights with my
given, identify the sentence that corrects the error to make
readers
it a grammatically accurate sentence.
(b) I covered many important stories and
This lesser known heritage building is so beautiful as the
(c) Throughout my career as a journalist,
Red Fort. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
(d) interviewed numerous individuals, which allow me
(a) This lesser known heritage building is very much
24. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
beautiful as the Red Fort.
Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
(b) This lesser known heritage building is much beautiful
Harish says / that his sister / loves to play / harmonium.
as the Red Fort.
(SSC MTS 2023)
(c) This heritage building is an beautiful as the Red Fort.
(a) harmonium (b) loves to play
(d) This less known heritage building is much beautiful
(c) Harish says (d) that his sister
than the Red Fort.
25. The given sentence contains an error. Select the option
31. Parts of the given sentence have been underlined. One of
that correctly rectifies the error.
the parts may contain an error. Select the option that rectifies
The boy told his mother that he saw the most tall giraffe at
the error. If you don't find any error, mark 'No error' as your
the zoo. (SSC MTS 2023)
answer.
(a) The boy told his mother that he saw the tallest giraffe
It was the home minister of the country who took the
at the zoo.
decision to change a laws pertaining to migration of people
(b) The boy told his mother that he saw the most taller
from one state to another. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
giraffe at the zoo.
(a) No error (b) the laws pertaining
(c) The boy told his mother that he saw the most tallest
(c) the migration (d) an home minister
giraffe at the zoo.
32. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
(d) The boy told his mother that he saw the more taller
Identify the segment that contains an error.
giraffe at the zoo.
(SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
26. Parts of the following sentence have been given as
The committee requested / the Chief Investigator / to
options. Select the option that contains an error.
personally / look after the matter.
(SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I)
(a) the Chief Investigator
You need to acknowledge the itinary and accommodation
(b) The committee requested
details of your journey as per the given calendar.
(c) to personally
(a) calender (b) accommodation
(c) acknowledge (d) itinary (d) look after the matter
N-10 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

33. Parts of the given sentence have been underlined. One of (a) rather than depending (b) the problem ourselves
them contains an error. The underlined parts are given as (c) We should sorted out (d) on the third party
options with some changes. Select the option that correctly 40. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One
rectifies the error. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II) of them may contain an error.
The film received critical acclaim for being a more innovative (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
movie of the year. Select the part that contains the error from the given options.
(a) Film receives (b) In the year If you don’t find any error, mark ‘No error’ as your answer.
(c) Acclaim at (d) An innovative Dan needed help / to get the / tight coat of him.
(a) No error (b) Dan needed help
34. Parts of the following sentence have been given as options. (c) to get the (d) tight coat of him
Select the option that contains an error.
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) Sentence Improvement
The dancers swayed dainty on the stage last night. 1. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
(a) last night (b) on the stage bracketed segment in the given sentence. If there is no
(c) The dancers (d) swayed dainty need to substitute it, select no substitution required'.
35. Parts of the following sentence have been given as options. The unit twitched like a bird (preening it's plumage and
One of them may contain an error. Select the part that becomes motionless). (SSC MTS 2022)
contains the error from the given options. If you don't find (a) preening its plumage and became motionless
any error, mark 'No error' as your answer. (b) No substitution required
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) (c) preening it's plumage while becoming motionless
(d) to preen it's plumage and becomes motionless
We feed the horse oats for a week because it had eaten all
2. Improve the underlined part of the sentence. Choose 'No
the hay.
improvement' as an answer if the sentence is grammatically
(a) No error (b) it had eaten all the hay correct. (SSC MTS 2022)
(c) We feed the horse oats (d) for a week because That movie is so sad; the ending always makes me bawling.
36. The following sentence has been split into four segments. (a) makes me bawled (b) No improvement
Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error. (c) makes me bawl (d) made me bawl
They will not attend / the event/ as they're going / away at 3. Improve the underlined part of the sentence. Choose 'No
end of April. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) Improvement' as an answer if the sentence is grammatically
(a) away at end of April (b) as they're going correct. (SSC MTS 2022)
It is the most effective means of mass communication.
(c) the event (d) They will not attend
(a) a most effecting
37. The following sentence has been split into four segments. (b) a most effectives
Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
(c) the most effectively
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) (d) No improvement
She will have participate / in the dance competition / by the 4. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the
time her father / returns from the tour. underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
(a) In the dance competition need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
(b) She will have participate An ultralight airplane is very different from a conventional
(c) by the time her father airplane. It is looking like a lawn chair with wings.
(SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
(d) returns from the tour
(a) No substitution required
38. Parts of the following sentence have been underlined and
(b) look like
given as options. Select the option that contains an error.
(c) looked like
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I) (d) looks like
I had gone to Siliguri before I go to Raiganj. 5. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the
(a) gone (b) go underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
(c) had (d) before need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
39. The following sentence has been split into four segments. Raju did very well in the exam, he must study well.
Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error. (a) he may study well (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
We should sorted out / the problem ourselves / rather than (b) he should have studied well
depending / on the third party. (c) he must have studied well
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) (d) No substitution required
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-11

6. Select the option that rectifies the underlined part of the (a) call around
given sentence. In case no correction is needed, select ‘No (b) No substitution required
correction required’. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) (c) call off
Cinema provides the most universal entertainment (d) call on
(a) an universal (b) No correction required 15. Select the option that will improve the given sentence by
(c) a universal (d) more universal using the most appropriate Pronoun.
7. Select the option that will improve the underlined part of the (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
following sentence. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
Pradeep, whom is a teacher, also works as a content writer.
He is taller and most handsome than his friend.
(a) Pradeep, which is a teacher, also works as a content
(a) the more (b) very more
(c) more (d) the most writer.
8. Select the most appropriate option in the superlative degree (b) Pradeep, whose is a teacher, also works as a content
that can substitute the underlined segment in the given writer.
sentence. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) (c) Pradeep, who is a teacher, also works as a content
This is the challenge task I have ever encountered writer.
(a) much challenging (b) more challenging (d) Pradeep, that is a teacher, also works as a content
(c) challenging (d) most challenging writer.
9. Select the option that rectifies the underlined part of the 16. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the
given sentence. In case no correction is needed, select ‘No underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
correction required’. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) need to substitute it, select 'No substitution required'. Her
Ashoka was not only a great warrior but also a very wiser paintings are way better then her sketches.
ruler. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
(a) wise (b) more wise (a) off
(c) No correction required (d) wisest (b) than
10. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the (c) more
underlined segment in the given sentence.
(d) No substitution required
Professor said that I will be late for the lecture.
17. Select the option that can substitute the bracketed word
(a) he shall be late for the lecture (SSC MTS 2023)
segment correctly and complete the following sentence
(b) he is late for the lecture
(c) he would be late for the lecture meaningfully. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
(d) he may be late for the lecture Lots of kids (was visualised) crossing the road when the
11. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the bus arrived.
underlined segment in the given sentence. (a) were seen (b) have been seen
Andrew will playing basketball at the college tournament. (c) are seen (d) was seen
(SSC MTS 2023) 18. Select the option that will improve the underlined part of
(a) are play the (b) are play the given sentence. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
(c) is playing (d) is played The use of chemicals, insecticides and pesticides began
12. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the after the Green Revolution.
underlined segment in the following sentence. (a) A practice of chemicals, insecticides and pesticides
Selling, purchasing, and using an illegally copied product
(b) The custom of chemicals, insecticides and pesticides
is a criminal offence. (SSC MTS 2023)
(c) Consumption of chemicals, insecticides and pesticides
(a) an obsolete (b) a pirated
(c) an outlawed (d) a crooked (d) The usage of chemicals, insecticides and pesticides
13. Select the option that will improve the underlined part of the 19. Select the most appropriate option to replace the underlined
given sentence. Adyasha would have been looked gorgeous word in the given sentence.
in ethnic apparel. (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I) Hritik is slow than Heer. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
(a) was looked (a) slowliest (b) much slow
(b) would have looked (c) slower (d) slowest
(c) had looking
(d) would be looked
One Word Substitution
14. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the 1. Choose the word that can substitute the given group of
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no words. (SSC MTS 2022)
need to substitute it, select 'No substitute required.' I decided The young of a frog
to call out to various bookstores in the area to see if any of (a) Kitten (b) Pup
them had the book I needed. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II) (c) Tadpole (d) Antelope
N-12 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

2. Select the most appropriate word for the given group of 11. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute
words. (SSC MTS 2022) for the given group of words. (SSC MTS 2023)
Tending to associate with others of one's kind A cage made for birds.
(a) Pedantic (b) Pungent OR
(c) Gregarious (d) Venial A place for keeping the birds in a confined space.
3. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute (a) Aquarium (b) Apiary
for the given group of words. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II) (c) Aviary (d) Arena
Giving cause for legal action 12. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute
(a) Lawful (b) Actionable for the given group of words. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
(c) Legalizing (d) Objectionable The inability to obtain adequate sleep
4. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute (a) Pyromania (b) Insomnia
for the given group of words. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II) (c) Andromania (d) Mythomania
An official appointed to resolve a dispute 13. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute
(a) Confidante (b) Arbitrator for the given phrase. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
(c) Soothsayer (d) Advocate One who believes in fate
5. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute (a) Fatalist (b) Flirt
for the underlined part of the given sentence. (c) Superstitious (d) Fatal
(SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) 14. Select the most appropriate one - word substitution of the
There is a place for grains in the backyard of this house. given group of words. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
(a) dormitory (b) apiary
A notice of the death of a person, often with a biographical
(c) granary (d) archive
sketch, as in a newspaper.
6. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute
for the underlined phrase in the following sentence. (a) Obituary (b) Oblivion
She was known for her ability to communicate effectively (c) Elegy (d) Advertisement
and express herself clearly in writing and speaking. 15. Select the option that can be used as a one - word substitute
(SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) for the underlined group of words.
(a) incoherence (b) rambling (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
(c) articulation (d) mumbling How did you become interest in learning the art of
7. Select the option that can substitute the underlined word producing beautiful handwriting?
segment with the most appropriate idiom.
(a) Lexicography (b) Demography
(SSC Sten. 2022)
26 January 1950 is a memorable day for the countrymen. (c) Calligraphy (d) Graphology
(a) green thumb (b) out of the blue 16. Select the option that can be used as a one - word substitute
(c) red letter (d) black and white for the underlined group of words.
8. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
underlined segment in the given sentence. Ms. Scarlet was indifferent to pain and pleasure, she never
I visted my friend for night. (SSC Sten. 2022) complained.
(a) in (b) from
(a) Hypocrite (b) Stoic
(c) with (d) at
9. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute (c) Versatile (d) Amateur
for the underlined words. Whatever topic I discussed with 17. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute
the sage, it seemed that he knew everything, for the given group of words. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
(SSC Sten. 2022) Fear of water
(a) was omniscient (b) was excellent (a) Hydrophobia (b) Bibliophobia
(c) was abnormal (d) was a psychologist (c) Microphobia (d) Botanophobia
10. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One 18. Select the word which means the same as the group of
of them may contain an error. (SSC Sten. 2022) words underlined in the given sentence.
Select the part that contains the error from the given options. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
If you don't find any error, mark 'No error' as your answer. The pandemic deeply affected small business owners, as
(i) It is raining / (2) when they played / (3) the cricket match they have no means of livelihood left.
last night. / (4) No error (a) Pauper (b) Worker
(a) 4 (b) 1 (c) 2 (d) 3
(c) Unemployed (d) Mason
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-13

19. Select the most appropriate one - word substitution of the 5. The given sentence has an error which has been underlined.
given group of words. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) The underlined word is given as options with some changes.
A person engaged in or trained for spaceflight. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
(a) Astute (b) Astronomer Select the option that rectifies the error.
She vaccillates a lot while making any decision.
(c) Astronaut (d) Atrocious
(a) vacillates (b) vacillattes
20. Select the option that can be used as a one - word substitute (c) vacilates (d) vasillates
for the given group of words. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) 6. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word. (SSC MTS 2023)
Working or operating quickly and effectively in an organised (a) Separate (b) Accommodate
way (c) Definitely (d) Embarass
(a) Efficient (b) Extensive 7. Select the sentence that has NO spelling errors.
(c) Excellent (d) Effusive (SSC MTS 2023)
(a) The doctor presribed some medicine to alleviate my
21. Select the word which means the same as the group of
parsistent cough, which has been boathering me for days.
words underlined in the given sentence.
(b) The doctor precribed some medicine to aleviate my
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I)
persistent cough, which has been bothering me for
By killing a large number of people, they thought they would
days.
get more benefits of the schemes.
(c) The doctor prescribed some medicine to aleviate my
(a) Homicide (b) Suicide
parsistent cough, which has been boathering me for
(c) Genocide (d) Feticide
days.
22. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute
(d) The doctor prescribed some medicine to alleviate my
for the given group of words.
persistent cough, which has been bothering me for
A person who kills somebody, especially for political days.
reasons (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I) 8. Select the option that rectifies the spelling of the underlined
(a) Hangman (b) Monster word in the given sentence.
(c) Criminal (d) Assassin The sergent brought in a lot of changes as soon as he was
23. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute given charge. (SSC MTS 2023)
for the given group of words. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) (a) seargeant (b) sergeannt
Photographers who follow celebrities to get their pictures (c) sergant (d) sergeant
to sell them 9. Select the option with the correct spelling that can replace
(a) Paparazzi (b) Reporter the underlined word in the given sentence.
(c) Editor (d) Interviewer (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I)
24. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute Kasturi acts as a liason between patients and staff.
for the given group of words. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) (a) liaision (b) laision
Someone who is reserved and shy. (c) liaison (d) liaisan
(a) Introvert (b) Extrovert 10. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word.
(c) Chauffeur (d) Talkative (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
(a) Inconspicuous
Spelling Test
(b) Susceptibility
1. Choose the sentence with no spelling error. (c) Superindednt
(a) Protest is also a saffety valve. (SSC MTS 2022) (d) Extemporise
(b) Protest is also a safety valvve. 11. Select the sentence that has the correct use of words and
(c) Protast is also a safety valve. spellings. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
(d) Protest is also a safety valve. (a) The novel, with its intricate plot and multifaceted
2. Choose the incorrectly spelt word. (SSC MTS 2022) characters, captivated readers and left them pondering
(a) Tihgt (b) Locker its deeper themes long after they finished reading.
(c) Rift (d) Stock (b) The novel, with its intricate plot and multifacted
3. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word. characters, captivated readers and left them paundering
(SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II) its deeper themes long after they finished reading.
(a) Subpoena (b) Noticeable (c) The novel, with its intricete plot and multifacted
(c) Caucus (d) Milennium characters, captivated readers and left them pondering
4. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word. its deeper themes long after they finished reading.
(SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II) (d) The novel, with its intrcate plot and multifaceted
(a) Accomodate (b) Affection characters, captivated readers and left them pondering
(c) Appearance (d) Accompanied its deeper themes long after they finished reading.
N-14 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

12. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word. Parajumbles

(SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
1. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order.
(a) Interrogate (b) Alienate Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a
(c) Deserve (d) Assasinate meaningful and coherent paragraph.
13. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word from the underlined (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
words in the following sentence. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) A. It is almost a definition of a gentleman to say he is one
This was a blatent disregard to the advisory. by the host who never inflicts pain
against it and in violation of norms of the meeting. B. He is mainly occupied in merely removing the obstacles
(a) advisory (b) blatent which hinder the free and unembarrassed action of
(c) disregard (d) violation those about him, and he concurs with their movements
rather than takes the initiative himself.
14. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word.
C. The true gentleman in like manner carefully avoids
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
whatever may cause a jar or a jolt in the minds of those
(a) Adjacent (b) Accomplish with whom he is cast; all clashing of opinion, or
(c) Agregate (d) Allure collision of feeling, all restraint, or suspicion, or gloom,
15. The following sentence has been split into four segments. or resentment; his great concern being to make
Identify the segment that contains a spelling error. everyone at their ease and at home.
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) D. His benefits may be considered as parallel to what are
He wrote his dairy/ in code / so that nobody / could called comforts or conveniences in arrangements of a
understand it. personal nature: like an easy chair or a good fire, which
do their part in dispelling cold and fatigue, though
(a) so that nobody (b) could understand it
nature provides both means of rest and animal heat
(c) in code (d) He wrote his dairy
without them
16. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word. (a) BACD (b) ABCD
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) (c) DCBA (d) DBAC
(a) Serene (b) Triumph 2. Some sentences are given below. While the first and the
(c) Comparsion (d) Unveil last sentences (1 and 2) are in the correct order, the sentences
17. Select the correct spelling of the incorrectly spelt word. in between are jumbled up. Arrange the sentences in the
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I) correct order to form a meaningful and coherent paragraph.
Labradors are gentle, docil dogs. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
(a) Labradaurs (b) gentil 1. “Do you still recognise me?” I asked.
(c) Labradoors (d) docile A. The woman looked at me searchingly.
18. Identify and correct the INCORRECTLY spelt word in the B. “I am Mrs. S’s daughter”.
given sentence. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I) C. I came closer and stood on the step.
D. She opened the door a little.
India needs to do better on rights and freedoms, welfare
2. She kept staring at me in silence.
and justice, growth and development, and in building a
(a) BDAC (b) BACD (c) BCAD (d) BADC
more egalitaerian society.
3. Some sentences are given below. While the first and the
(a) egalitarian (b) developement
last sentences (1 and 2) are in the correct order, the sentences
(c) freedams (d) justise
in between are jumbled up. Arrange the sentences in the
19. Select the sentence that contains no spelling errors. correct order to form a meaningful and coherent paragraph.
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
(a) The granduor of the ancient Roman Empire is visible
1. Ranga is the accountant’s son.
in many monuments in Italy and Greece.
A. He returned to his village after his studies were over.
(b) The grandour of the ancient Roman Empire is visible
B. He is one rare breed of village folk who loved studies.
in many monumants in Italy and Greece.
C. On his return the villagers milled around his house to
(c) The grandeur of the ancient Roman Empire is visible
see whether he has changed or not.
in many monuments in Italy and Greece.
D. He had gone to Bangalore to pursue his studies.
(d) The granduer of the ancient Roman Empire is visible
2. His idea about marriage are now quite different.
in many monuments in Italy and Greece.
(a) BDAC (b) BCAD (c) BCDA (d) BDCA
20. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word.
4. Parts of a sentence are given below in jumbled order.
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
(a) Greave (b) Groan Arrange the parts in the correct order to form a meaningful
(c) Guarantee (d) Gravely sentence. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-15

The ashrams / used / were / the centres / of / knowledge D. You may not only glance at things in this, but you can
and learning / as also feel and mark you presence in augmented reality.
(a) The ashrams were used as the centres of knowledge (a) BCDA (b) CDAB
and learning. (c) BADC (d) ABCD
(b) As The ashrams of knowledge and learning were used 9. Given below are four jumbled sentences select the option
the centres. that gives their correct logical sequence
(c) Knowledge and learning were used as the centres of A. One common mistake that many people have made is
the ashrams. this; they have thought that it would be a very good thing
(d) The centres of the ashrams were used as knowledge if everybody had exactly the same amount of money, no
and learning. matter whether they worked hard or lived quite idly.
5. Parts of a sentence are given below in jumbled order. B. Now that is a very great mistake, because there simply is
Arrange the parts in the correct order to form a meaningful not enough money to make everybody rich.
sentence. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II) C. And they have imagined that if all the money in the
An elaborate network / is / the plot of /schemes and tricks country were equally divided everybody would be rich
/ of Much Ado About Nothing D. They forget that very few people would work at all if it
(a) The plot is of schemes and tricks an elaborate network were not for the money their work brings them, and that
of Much Ado About Nothing. without work there would be no money (SSC Sten. 2022)
(b) An elaborate network of Much Ado About Nothing is (a) ADBC (b) ABDC
the plot of schemes and tricks. (c) ABCD (d) ADCB
(c) The plot of Much Ado About Nothing is an elaborate 10. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order.
network of schemes and tricks. Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a
(d) The plot of schemes and tricks is an elaborate network meaningful and coherent paragraph. (SSC Sten. 2022)
of Much Ado About Nothing A. His original contributions to natural science include
6. Select the option that arranges the given words to form a the accurate assessment of the elephant gestation
grammatically correct and meaningful sentence. period and the disclosure of the Sarus Crane pairing
(SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) information.
The students eagerly their awaited results. B. His Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri contains a record of his
(a) The awaited eagerly results their students. observations (memoirs of Jahangir).
(b) Eagerly awaited the students their results. C. Jahangir, the emperor of the Mughal Empire, was a
(c) The students eagerly awaited their results. devoted naturalist.
(d) The students their eagerly awaited results.
D. Jahangir is known for his in-depth descriptions of
7. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order.
several animals and birds, including the monkey and
Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a
the hawk-cuckoo.
meaningful and coherent paragraph. (SSC Sten. 2022)
(a) DACB (b) BDCA
A. United nations maintains peace and security in the
world. (c) CBDA (d) ABCD
B. It also takes care of developing friendly relations 11. Parts of a sentence are given below in jumbled order. Arrange
between nations. the parts in the correct order to form a meaningful sentence.
C. United Nations also strives to implement the principles (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I)
of equality. A. fell before me B. a carcass of an animal
D. It also act as a centre through which countries C. when suddenly D. my heart skipped a beat
coordinate their actions and activities for global peace. (a) BACD (b) CDBA
(a) BCDA (b) ABCD (c) ABCD (d) DCBA
12. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order.
(c) CDAB (d) DCAB
Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a
8. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order.
meaningful and coherent paragraph.
Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a
(SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I)
meaningful and coherent paragraph. (SSC Sten. 2022)
A. So then why are not Silicon Valley entrepreneurs
A. This digital universe is not restricted to technology clamouring to decode the ancient wisdom?
gadgets such as searching for information on the B. The failure rate in finding a new drug is as high as 95%.
internet. C. Because these once-thriving cultures are now reduced
B. A digital realm is created through metaverse to an endangered tribe.
technology. D. According to industry data, it takes $2.6 billion and, on
C. The human presence will be marked by the existence average, fourteen years to develop a new drug.
of avatars, which will be free to interact with one (a) BADC (b) DCBA
another in 3-D virtual spaces. (c) DBAC (d) ACDB
N-16 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

13. Parts of a sentence are given below in jumbled order. Select (a) ABDC (b) CDAB
the option that arranges the parts in the correct order to (c) CADB (d) BADC
form a meaningful sentence. (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I) 17. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order.
A. In accordance with hierarchical status Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a
B. Of the services rendered meaningful and coherent paragraph.
C. Rewards are given (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
D. And are not related to the economic value A. She shot the movie on the widest canvas possible
(a) A, B, D, C (b) A, D, B, C using the same kind of equipment that captured Star
(c) C, A, D, B (d) C, B, A, D Wars landscapes, and applied a muted colour grading
14. Parts of a sentence are given below in jumbled order, except to every frame.
the first part. Arrange the parts in the correct order to form a B. She said last year that she wanted the ensemble film
meaningful sentence. (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I) to look like “a faded postcard”.
A. not only in the Anglo-American academia C. Polley lends the central conversation a visual gravitas
B. on the literature of the Third World. normally reserved for epics.
C. however, are a common feature of the literary theory D. Women Talking, adapted by the writer-director Sarah
practiced Polley from Miriam Toews’s 2018 novel, is vibrant cinema.
D. but also in the Third-World countries (a) DABC (b) DBCA
(a) ABCD (b) ADCB (c) CABD (d) DCAB
(c) BCAD (d) CABD 18. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order.
15. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order. Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a
Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a meaningful and coherent paragraph.
meaningful and coherent paragraph. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I) A. On the afternoon of that eventful day, I stood on the
A. Due to tight deadlines for delivery and increased focus porch, dumb, expectant and guessed vaguely from my
on performance outcomes, many employees are unable mother's signs and from the hurrying to and fro in the
to enjoy a proper work life. house that something unusual was about to happen,
B. Stress could emanate out of various situations such so I went to the door and waited on the steps.
as lifestyle, health or relationship issues, lack of B. I did not know what the future held of marvel or
support system at home and competitive focus on surprise for me and anger and bitterness had preyed
acquiring material symbols of success and career upon me continually for weeks and a deep languor
advancement. had succeeded this passionate struggle.
C. In today’s fast-moving world, many young C. The most important day I remember in all my life is the
professionals are vulnerable to stress. one on which my teacher, Anne Mansfield Sullivan,
D. To add to this, the current economy has impacted many came to me and I am filled with wonder when I consider
companies’ revenues and profits which, in effect, have the immeasurable contrasts between the two lives
put many jobs at risk resulting in the frequency of which it connects and it was the third of March, 1887,
counselling support and guidance goin g up three months before I was seven years old.
significantly. D. The afternoon sun penetrated the mass of honeysuckle
(a) DCBA (b) ABCD that covered the porch, and fell on my upturned face and
(c) DABC (d) CBAD my fingers lingered almost unconsciously on the familiar
16. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order. leaves and blossoms which had just come forth to greet
Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a the sweet southern spring.
meaningful and coherent paragraph. (a) DABC (b) CBAD
(c) CADB (d) CDAB
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I)
19. Given below are four jumbled sentences. Select the option
A. It centres on the sinking of the RMS Titanic.
that gives their correct logical sequence.
B. The film proved immensely popular, holding the all- (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
time box-office gross record for more than a decade A. When faced with uncertainty, humans look out for the
after its release. action of others and become a victim of ineffective
C. Titanic is an American romantic adventure film released rational thinking during compelling, confusing
in 1997. situations.
D. Most of the film’s story is then told in flashbacks as B. According to him, in an emergency, we tend to forget
the protagonist recounts the Titanic’s fateful 1912 that everybody else observing the event is also likely
voyage. to be looking out for social evidence.
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-17

C. Robert B. Cialdini explains this reaction with a 2. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
psychological phenomenon called 'pluralistic ignorance'. Get down to brass tacks (SSC MTS 2022)
D. Since we all prefer to appear poised and unflustered (a) To become serious about something
among others, we are likely to search for answers (b) Get fired from the job
placidly, with brief, camouflaged glances at those (c) Compromise, cooperation between people
around us. (d) To be ready
(a) ACBD (b) BCDA 3. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
(c) ABCD (d) ABDC The officer asked his subordinates to keep him posted of
20. Identify the option that arranges the given parts in the
the workplace developments. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
correct order to form a meaningful paragraph.
(a) maintain secrecy
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
(b) send letters by post
A. Then a nurse and a doctor came
B. After the terrible accident (c) keep sharing the latest information
C. A car took Raman to the hospital (d) not disturb him in matters
D. The two men carried him to a bed and put him in it 4. Choose the correct meaning of the underlined idiom in the
carefully given sentence. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
(a) DCBA (b) ABCD There is no point developing bad blood with your
(c) BCDA (d) ACDB neighbours.
21. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order. (a) Enmity (b) Business relations
Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a (c) Friendship (d) Family relations
meaningful and coherent paragraph. 5. Select the most appropriate idiom to fill in the blank.
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) Despite their differences, the two politicians decided to
A. The temperature of the world has increased, resulting ________ and work together for the greater good.
in global warming. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
B. The melting of the ice caps will increase the sea level, (a) bury the hatchet (b) bark up the wrong tree
thereby drowning many islands and coastal regions. (c) blow off steam (d) burn the midnight oil
C. The increased amount of carbon emission is 6. Select the sentence which gives the most appropriate
considered as the reason behind globalwarming. meaning of the given idiom. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
D. The increase in the global temperature is melting the Bite the bullet
polar ice caps.
(a) Jack and Jill went up the hill to fetch a pail of water.
(a) ABCD (b) ACBD
(b) Despite the pain, Sarah decided to go ahead with the
(c) ACDB (d) BADC surgery.
22. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order. (c) The chef prepared a delicious meal for the guests.
Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a (d) The children played in the park on a sunny day.
meaningful and coherent paragraph. 7. Select the most appropriate phrasal verb to fill in the blank.
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) _________ that thought. It will be a great idea someday.
A. Road accidents have become very common in India. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
B. Condition of roads in India is pathetic. (a) Hold on (b) Hold to
C. Increasing number of vehicles leave little space on (c) Hold against (d) Hold onto
roads. 8. Select the most appropriate idiom to substitute the
D. Roads are narrow and remain congested most of the underlined segment in the given sentence.
time. I was undecided for a long time to select the right course of
(a) ACBD (b) BDCA
study after my senior secondary exam.
(c) BCDA (d) CDBA
(a) beating around the bush (SSC Sten. 2022)
Idioms/Phrases (b) sitting on the fence
(c) knocking around
1. In the following question, out of the given four alternatives,
select the alternative which best expresses the meaning of (d) on fool's errand
the Idiom/Phrase. 9. Select the most appropriate idiom that can substitute the
A blind spot (SSC MTS 2022) underlined segment in the given sentence.
(a) A person who is blind "I don't feel like hanging out today. I'm feeling a bit unwell."
(b) A person with no emotional feelings (SSC Sten. 2022)
(c) A situation where no progress is made (a) under the coat (b) under the weather
(d) An area in your range of vision that you cannot see (c) over the moon (d) near the horizon
properly
N-18 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

10. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom A phrase or words written in memory of a person who has
in the following sentence. died
Qualifying for JEE Advanced has given Abhikriti a shot in (a) Epigram (b) Tombstone
the arm. (SSC Sten. 2022) (c) Epitaph (d) Calligraphy
(a) A trivial annoyance (b) A dose of medication 18. Select the most appropriate idiom that best explains the
(c) Put in trouble (d) A boost or stimulant given sentence. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
11. Choose the most suitable idiom for the given situation. I was unable to solve the geometry question myself. So, I
They don't talk to him anymore as he brought disgrace to have asked my teacher to help me out.
the family by robbing the bank. They have ousted him and (a) Two wrongs don't make a right.
consider him as insult to the family name. He is _____. (b) You can't always get what you want.
(SSC Sten. 2022) (c) When the going gets tough, the tough gets going.
(a) a crying wolf (b) a black sheep (d) Two heads are better than one.
(c) a dark horse (d) a fish out of water 19. Select the sentence that gives the most appropriate meaning
12 . Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. of the idiom 'In hot water'. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
To be in hot water (SSC Sten. 2022) (a) The company faced challenges due to the economic
(a) To get into a difficult situation in which you are in downturn but managed to overcome them.
danger of being choked to death (b) The chef added spices to the dish to enhance its
(b) To get into a difficult situation in which you are in flavour and make it more delicious.
danger of being drowned (c) After accidentaily breaking the valuable vase, Sarah
(c) To get into a difficult situation in which you are in found herself in trouble with her parents.
danger of being burnt (d) The children enjoyed playing in the pool on a hot
(d) To get into a difficult situation in which you are in summer day.
danger of being criticised or punished 20. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
13. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. Bend over backwards (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
Sell like hot cakes (SSC MTS 2023) (a) Working hard to try to impress.
(a) Quick sell out (b) Selling cakes
(b) Working slowly and lazily
(c) Being ignored (d) Eating hot cake
14. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. (c) Going backward
Let sleeping dogs lie (SSC MTS 2023) (d) Using wrongful means
(a) To let somebody sleep 21. Select the most appropriate idiomatic expression that can
(b) To fall sick intentionally substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence.
(c) Leave an existing situation as it is (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
(d) To care for the pet
Both Nitin and Uday are of the same interests.
15. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
Call the shots (SSC MTS 2023) (a) under the weather
(a) To be a follower that makes less important decision (b) birds of the same feather
(b) To be in a position to make decisions that influences a (c) blowing smoke without fire
situation (d) different kettles of fish
(c) To be in a powerless position that follows orders
22. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom
(d) To be in a neutral position
in the given sentence. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
16. Select the most appropriate Idiom that best explains the
given sentence. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II) I hate to get off on the wrong foot.
Rajat irritated the street dog so much that it was about to (a) To start something with positive factors
bite him. (b) To start something with neutral factors
(a) If you can't beat 'em, join' em. (c) To start a relationship or activity badly
(b) If it ain't broke, don't fix it. (d) To start something with an injury on the wrong foot
(c) If you want something done right, you have to do it 23. Select the most appropriate phrasal verb to fill in the blank.
yourself.
Arunima _________ a lot during her vacation time.
(d) If you play with fire, you'll get burned.
17. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
for the given group of words/phrase. (a) gets on (b) gets after
(SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II) (c) gets about (d) gets along
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-19

24. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. (a) put ice on it (b) called it a day
The best of both worlds (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) (c) ran around in circles (d) gave it a whirl
(a) Good things come after bad things 32. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the
underlined segment in the given sentence.
(b) An ideal situation
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I)
(c) Better to show than tell Brian remained silent during the board meeting, though
(d) Make people comfortable Rahul was unaware that he had an ace up his sheath the
25. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom. entire time.
Students often burn the midnight oil to qualify for (a) an ace up his teeth (b) an ace up his sleeve
competitive examinations. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) (c) an ace up his head (d) an ace up his fortune
(a) put the things on fire at night. 33. Select the most appropriate meaning of the highlighted
idiom. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
(b) want to be at a place full of light
The team members seem to be running around in circles.
(c) work until late at night (a) To be extremely successful
(d) sleep well (b) Hardly any time to breathe
26. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom. (c) To be very active but with few results
More people in Turkey are on the breadline now than thirty (d) Very dynamic and hardworking
years ago. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) 34. Select the most appropriate meaning of the highlighted
(a) Be very poor (b) Are well expensive idiom. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
(c) Be very expensive (d) Earn a lot of money It was a Catch 22 situation for the manager.
(a) Worthy successor to the throne
27. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
(b) A difficult situation in which the solution to a problem
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) is impossible
Left out in the cold (c) Hailed as the ultimate champion
(a) To serve stale and cold food (d) A positive outcome in a tough situation
(b) To leave in hurry
Speeches/Voices
(c) To bear extreme weather condition
(d) To be ignored 1. Select the correct direct narration of the given sentence.
28. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom. Madhav applauded her, saying that she had done well.
We dodged a bullet when we didn't fall for the agents' words. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
(a) Madhav say, “Bravo! You have done well”.
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2023)
(b) Madhav said, “Bravo! You have done well”.
(a) To give something a try (c) Madhav said, “Bravo! You been done well”.
(b) To narrowly avoid situation (d) Madhav say, “Bravo! You have be done well”.
(c) To be out of your comfort zone 2. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
(d) To start performing better passive voice. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
29. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. Simran was plucking the flowers.
An arm and a leg (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) (a) The flowers are plucked by Simran.
(b) The flowers will be plucked by Simran.
(a) To ask for too much
(c) The flowers have been plucked by Simran.
(b) A large amount of money (d) The flowers were being plucked by Simran.
(c) Everything is ready 3. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
(d) To be lost and bewildered indirect speech. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
30. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. The lawyer told the father of the accused, “There is a rumour
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) that he has some connection in that crime.”
A leopard can't change his spots (a) The lawyer told the father of the accused that there
had been a rumour that he had some connection in
(a) Someone who is cherished above all others.
that crime.
(b) A visual presentation is far more descriptive than words (b) The lawyer told the father of the accused that there
(c) Something good that isn't recognised at first was a rumour that he was having some connection in
(d) You cannot change who you are that crime.
31. Select the most appropriate idiom to substitute the (c) The lawyer told the father of the accused that there was
underlined segment in the given sentence. a rumour that he had some connection in that crime.
The peasants worked the whole day in the fields and (d) The lawyer told the father of the accused that there
stopped working in the evening and went to their homes. was a rumour that he has had some connection in that
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I) crime.
N-20 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

4. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in (c) The principal said to I, “You are in-charge of the
passive voice. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II) admission cell.”
I gifted a soft toy to my daughter. (d) The principal said to me, “You are in-charge of the
(a) A soft toy is gifted to my daughter by me. admission cell.
(b) To my daughter was gifted a soft toy by me. 11. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
(c) A soft toy was gifted to my daughter by me. indirect speech. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
(d) A soft toy was being gifted to my daughter by me. He said, “Two and two make four.”
5. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in direct (a) He says that two and two make four.
speech. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II) (b) He said that two and two make four.
My son exclaimed with joy that it was an attractive site. (c) He says that two and two made four.
(a) My son said, “It is an attractive site.” (d) He said that two and two made four”
(b) My son said, “What an attractive site it is!” 12. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
(c) My son said, “What an attractive site it was!” indirect speech. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
He said, “I bought this book for my brother.”
(d) My son said, “It was an attractive site.”
(a) He said that he has bought this book for his brother.
6. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
(b) He said that he buy this book for his brother
passive voice. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
(c) He said that he had bought that book for his brother
The seller shall dispatch the parcel soon to Chennai.
(d) He said that he bought this book for his brother.
(a) The parcel will be dispatched soon to Chennai by the
13. Select the option that expresses the following sentence in
seller. reported (or indirect) speech. (SSC Sten. 2022)
(b) The parcel may be dispatched by the seller to Chennai The postmaster said to her, "You can purchase only two
soon. stamps at a time."
(c) The parcel might be dispatched by the seller to Chennai (a) The postmaster told her that she can purchase only
soon. two stamps at a time.
(d) The parcel can be dispatched by the seller to Chennai (b) The postmaster asked her that she could purchase
soon. only two stamps at a time.
7. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in (c) The postmaster instructed her that she should
passive voice. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) purchase only two stamps at a time.
Access denied. (d) The postmaster told her that she could purchase only
(a) Let the access be denied. two stamps at a time.
(b) Access is being denied. 14. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in active
(c) Let it be known that access will be denied. voice. (SSC Sten. 2022)
(d) Access has been denied. It is said that this is the oldest temple in the region.
8. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in active (a) This is said to be the oldest temple in the region.
voice. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) (b) This is told to be the oldest temple.
The award was presented to her by the director. (c) This temple is said in the region to be.
(a) The director presented the award to her. (d) This oldest temple is said to be in the region.
(b) She presented the award to the director. 15. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
(c) The award presented to her by the director. indirect speech. She said, "I am going to the library to return
(d) She was presenting the award to the director. the book". (SSC Sten. 2022)
9. Select the option that expresses the following sentence in (a) She said that she was going to the library to return the
active voice. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) book.
By whom were you taught English grammar and (b) She said that she had gone to the library to return the
composition? book.
(a) Who taught you English grammar and composition? (c) She said that she is going to the library to return the book.
(b) Who had taught you English grammar and (d) She said that she will go to the library to return the
composition? book.
(c) Whom taught you English grammar and composition? 16. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
(d) Who has taught you English grammar and composition? indirect speech. (SSC Sten. 2022)
10. Select the most appropriate option in direct speech. "We must be vigilant. Our teacher never accepts the
(SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II) assignment if any one of us is late in submission", Ramesh
(a) The principal say me, “You are in-charge of the admission said to his friend.
cell.” (a) Ramesh told his friend that they must be vigilant as
(b) The principal said me, You are in-charge of the admission their teacher never accepted the assignment if any
cell. one of them was late in submission.
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-21

(b) Ramesh said his friend that they must be vigilant as 22. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in active
our teacher never accepted the assignment if any one voice. (SSC Sten. 2022)
of them was late in submission. The monkey was not chased up the tree by the lion.
(c) Ramesh said to his friend that they must be vigilant as (a) Up the tree the monkey was not chased by the lion.
their teacher never accepted the assignment if any (b) The monkey was not chasing up the tree to the lion.
one of them was late in submission. (c) The lion did not chase the monkey up the tree.
(d) Ramesh told his friend that we must be vigilant as
(d) The lion was not chasing the monkey up the tree.
their teacher never accepted the assignment if any
23. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
one of them was late in submission.
reported speech. (SSC Sten. 2022)
17. Select the option that expresses the following sentence in
Shyla said to me, "What a skulful tailor she is!"
active voice. The pizza was ordered by Nikita at 5 p.m.
(a) Shyla said that she was a very skilful tailor.
(SSC Sten. 2022)
(b) Shyla exclaimed to me if she was a very skilful tailor.
(a) Nikita has being ordered the pizza at 5 p.m.
(c) Shyla exclaimed that she was a very skilful tailor.
(b) Nikita has been ordered the pizza at 5 p.m.
(d) Shyla exclaimed that she is a very skilful tailor.
(c) Nikita had ordered the pizza at 5 p.m.
24. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
(d) Nikita ordered the pizza at 5 p.m. passive voice. (SSC Sten. 2022)
18. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in active They are constructing a new building in the city centre.
voice. (SSC Sten. 2022) (a) A new building is being constructed by them in the
A new laptop was bought by me yesterday. city centre.
(a) I bought a new laptop yesterday. (b) They will construct a new building in the city centre.
(b) I was bought a new laptop yesterday. (c) The construction of a new building in the city centre
(c) I have buy a new laptop yesterday. by them is ongoing
(d) I have been buying a laptop yesterday. (d) They constructed a new building in the city centre.
19. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in 25. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in active
passive voice. (SSC Sten. 2022) voice. (SSC Sten. 2022)
A window will have been opened by her.
The government is implementing new policies to reduce
(a) She will open a window.
pollution in the city.
(b) She will be opened a window.
(a) New policies are being implemented by the government (c) She will have opened a window.
to reduce pollution in the city. (d) She will have been opened a window.
(b) The government implemented new policies to reduce 26. Select the option that expresses the following sentence in
pollution in the city. active voice. (SSC Sten. 2022)
(c) The implementation of new policies to reduce pollution A delicious meal was prepared by the chef.
in the city is by the government. (a) The chef had prepared a delicious meal.
(d) The government will implement new policies to reduce (b) The chef has been preparing a delicious meal.
pollution in the city. (c) The chef has prepared a delicious meal.
20. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in (d) The chef prepared a delicious meal.
indirect speech. (SSC Sten. 2022) 27. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in direct
speech. (SSC Sten. 2022)
"I have been to Hyderabad", Vishnu told me.
Parvathy explained that she was playing the violin.
(a) Vishnu told me that he has being to Hyderabad.
(a) "I playing the violin," Parvathy explained.
(b) Vishnu told me that he had been to Hyderabad.
(b) "I am playing the violin," Parvathy explained.
(c) Vishnu told me that he have be to Hyderabad. (c) "I playing the violin," Parvathy explain.
(d) Vishnu tell me that he has been to Hyderabad. (d) "I played the violin," Parvathy explaning.
21. Select the option that expresses the following sentence in 28. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in direct
direct speech. (SSC Sten. 2022) speech. (SSC Sten. 2022)
Lata told me to give her a glass of water. Minal said that they were boarding the train then.
(a) Lata said, "Give her a glass of water." (a) Minal said, "We have been boarding the train now."
(b) Lata said to me, "Give me a glass of water." (b) Minal said, "We are boarding the train now."
(c) Lata said, "can you give her a glass of water." (c) Minal asked, "Are we boarding the train now?"
(d) Lata asked me, "Give me a glass of water." (d) Minal told, "We would be boarding the train by then."
N-22 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

29. Select the option that expresses the following sentence in 36. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
indirect speech. (SSC Sten. 2022) indirect speech. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
Rahul says, "I go to the gym daily." Rakesh said, "Wow! What a beautiful house".
(a) Rahul said that he goes to the gym every day. (a) Rakesh told that it had been a beautiful house
(b) Rahul explained that I go to the gym daily. (b) Rakesh exclaimed with sorrow that it was a beautiful
(c) Rahul says that he goes to the gym daily. house.
(d) Rahul told that he went to the gym daily. (c) Rakesh exclaimed with surprise that it was must be
30. Select the option that expresses the following sentence in beautiful house.
active voice. (SSC Sten. 2022) (d) Rakesh exclaimed that it was a beautiful house.
A batch of cookies was baked for the party by her. 37. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
(a) She baked a batch of cookies for the party. reported speech. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
(b) For the party she has baked a batch of cookies. The captain said to the soldiers, "Follow the enemy."
(c) She has been baking a batch of cookies for the party. (a) The captain said his soldiers to follow the enemy.
(d) A batch of cookies for the party she baked. (b) The captain commanded his soldiers to follow the
31. Select the option that correctly expresses the following enemy.
sentence in passive voice. (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I) (c) The captain charged his soldiers to followed the
The child will recite the poem. enemy.
(a) By child poem will be recited. (d) The captain requested his soldiers to follow the enemy.
(b) The poem will be recited by the child. 38. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
(c) The poem is recited by the child.
passive voice. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
(d) The poem will recite by the child
The rescue team could have completed the task if there had
32. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
positive degree of comparison. been uninterrupted power supply.
(SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I) (a) The task could have been completed by the rescue
She is the dullest child in the class. team if there had been uninterrupted power supply.
(a) She is very duller in the class. (b) The task could be completed by the rescue team if
(b) Dullest child in the class is she. there was uninterrupted power supply.
(c) No other child in the class is as dull as she. (c) The task could have to be completed by the rescue
(d) In the class of all she is dull. team if there was uninterrupted power supply.
33. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in active (d) The task can have completed by the rescue team if
voice. (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I) there was uninterrupted power supply.
French is taught to us by Miss Glenn. 39. Identify how you will (Voice) ask everyone if the sweets
(a) Miss Glenn taught us French will be delivered by Jack today in active voice.
(b) Miss Glenn teach us French
(SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I)
(c) Miss Glenn teaches us French
(d) Miss Glenn is teaching us French (a) Are the sweets to be delivered by Jack today?
34. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in (b) Will Jack deliver the sweets today?
passive voice. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II) (c) Will Jack be delivering the sweets today?
He is eating an apple. (d) Jack will deliver the sweets today.
(a) He has been eating an apple. 40. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in active
(b) A apple is being eaten by him. voice. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I)
(c) An apple was eaten by him. Has the custard not been cooked by her?
(d) He was eating an apple. (a) Does she not cook the custard?
35. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
(b) Has she cooked the custard?
passive voice. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
The team won the tournament after weeks of hard work and (c) Have she cooked the custard?
commitment. (d) Has she not cooked the custard?
(a) The tournament has been won by the team after weeks 41. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
of hard work and commitment. passive voice. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
(b) The tournament was winning by the team after weeks The mistress appointed him monitor.
of hard work and commitment. (a) Monitor had been appointed as mistress.
(c) The tournament was being won by the team after weeks (b) He had been appointed as monitor.
of hard work and commitment. (c) He was appointed monitor by the mistress.
(d) The tournament was won by the team after weeks of (d) He appointed mistress as monitor.
hard work and commitment.
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-23

42. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in active China’s population fell in 2022 to 1.411 billion, down some 850,000
voice. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) people from the previous year, according to China’s National
The canons are being fired continuously by them. Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The birth rate also fell to a record low
(a) They fired canons continuously. of 6.77 births per 1,000 people, down from 7.52 a year earlier and
(b) They are firing the canons continuously. the lowest level since the founding of Communist China in 1949.
(c) They have fired the canons continuously. Along with the flagging population data, China also reported
(d) The canons fire continuously. one of its worst economic growth numbers in nearly half a century
43. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in last year, underscoring the steep challenges the country faces as
passive voice. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) its labor force shrinks and the ranks of the retired swell.
Marvel Comics created Superman. India’s working-age population stands at more than 900 million,
(a) Superman was created by Marvel Comics. according to 2021 data from the Organization for Economic
(b) Superman was created. Cooperation and Development. This number is expected to hit
(c) Superman is created by Marvel Comics. more than 1 billion over the next decade, according to the Indian
(d) Marvel Comics is creating Superman. government. But these numbers could become a liability if
44. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in policymakers do not create enough jobs, experts warned.
indirect speech. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) 1. The main theme of the given passage is:
“So help me heaven!”, the man cried, “I shall never lie (a) China’s worsening economic growth
again.” (b) slow population growth in India and China
(a) The man cries out to heaven to help him not to lie (c) India’s working-age population
again ever. (d) China’s declining population
(b) The man called upon heaven to witness his resolve
2. What is the estimated world population by the middle of
that he would never lie again.
this year?
(c) The man requested heaven to help him and see that he
(a) 1.256 billion (b) 900 million
lie again.
(c) 1.411 billion (d) 8.045 billion
(d) The man called heaven and ordered to help him and
3. Identify whether the given statements are true or false.
see to it that she never lies again.
A. India’s working-age population was 900 million in 2021.
45. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in direct
B. In the next ten years, India’s working-age population
speech. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
Hira inquired how I was doing being all alone in my house. will be more than 1 billion.
(a) Hira said to me, “Are you doing fine being all alone in (a) A is false and B is true. (b) A is true and B is false.
your house.” (c) Neither A nor B is true. (d) Both A and B are true.
(b) Hira said to me, “How are you doing being all alone in 4. ‘Along with the flagging population data.’ Here, ‘flagging’
my house.” means all of the following
(c) Hira said to me, “How are you doing being all alone in EXCEPT:
your house?” (a) ascending (b) waning
(d) Hira said to me, “How you are doing being all alone in (c) dwindling (d) contracting
your house?” DIRECTIONS Qs. (5-8): Read the given passage and answer
46. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in the questions that follow. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
reported speech. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
Joey said to the girl, “How are you doing?” King Sagara, an ancestor of King Bhagiratha, once conducted an
(a) Joey asked the girl if she was doing fine. ashwamedha yagna to extend his dominion. When the horse
(b) Joey asked the girl how was she doing. went astray, the king sent his 60,000 sons to find the horse.
(c) Joey asked the girl that how was she doing. Unfortunately, in the course of the quest, they ended up
(d) Joey asked the girl how she was doing. disrupting the intense meditation of sage Kapila, at whose abode
they found the horse. Kapila burnt them all to ashes, sending
Reading Comprehension them all to the netherworld—an act he instantly regretted when
he realised what had happened. After breaking the news to King
DIRECTIONS Qs. (1-4): Read the given passage and answer
Sagara, he mentioned that the souls of King Sagara’s sons could
the questions that follow. (SSC CHSL 2022, Tier-II)
attain salvation only if the heavenly Ganga could be persuaded
China and India together will account for more than a third of the to flow over their ashes.
estimated global population, which is expected to hit 8.045 billion It was Bhagiratha, whose austere penance and devotion pleased
by mid-year, according to the United Nations Population Fund’s Lord Shiva so much so that he persuaded Ganga to descend to
(UNFPA) ‘State of World Population Report’ for 2023. But, the earth. Ganga consented, but the problem arose that the earth
contrary to public perception, population growth has been slowing would probably be unable to bear the intensity of Ganga’s flow
in both countries – particularly in China, which recorded a and even be shattered in the process. Thus, a solution was
population decline for the first time in six decades last year. devised: Ganga would first land on Shiva’s head and the locks of
N-24 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

his hair would minimise the impact. Still, the force of Ganga’s 10. Based on your reading of the passage, select the most
landing was such that it split into seven tributaries, three of appropriate word which best describes ‘luscious’.
which flowed east and three of them west. The seventh stream (a) Smooth (b) Juicy
followed King Bhagiratha to the place where his ancestor’s ashes (c) Large (d) Soft
lay. The river’s waters instantly purified them. This is also the 11. What does the fermentation process do?
origin of the belief that the Ganga’s waters can purify mortal (a) Turns grapes into raisins
souls of all their sins. (b) Makes grapes larger
5. Identify the option that arranges the given events in the (c) Turns grapes into wine
correct sequence of their occurence. (d) Crushes the grapes
A. King Sagara’s sons were burnt by sage Kapila. 12. Select the most appropriate title for the passage.
B. King Bhagiratha persuaded Ganga to flow to the earth. (a) Grapes and its uses (b) Wine making
C. King Sagara performed an ashwamedha yagna. (c) Grapes and world (d) Varieties of grapes
D. The souls of the dead sons would not get salvation DIRECTIONS (Qs. 13-16): Read the given passage and answer
until Ganga flowed over their ashes. the question that follows. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
E. However, the flow had to be restrained by Shiva by
holding it in his locks. Steel is tough, and it can easily be shaped, cut or made into wire.
(a) CAEDB (b) CADBE Special alloys of steel can be made by adding small amounts of
(c) ACEBD (d) ADCBE other metals such as aluminium, nickel and copper. Alloys give
6. This story is a: steel unusual hardness, toughness or ability to resist rust. Steel is
often called the backbone of modern industry. Almost everything
(a) true story
we use is either made of iron or steel or has been made with tools
(b) historical story
and machinery of these metals. Ships, trains, trucks and autos are
(c) fable
made largely of steel. Even the safety pins and the needles you
(d) mythological story
use are made from steel. Oil wells are drilled with steel machinery.
7. The above story is mainly about: Steel pipelines transport oil. Minerals are mined with steel
(a) Lord Shiva holding the Ganga in his locks equipment. Farm machines are mostly steel. Large buildings have
(b) the ashwamedha yagna by King Sagara steel framework.
(c) the coming of the river Ganga to the earth 13. Why is steel often called the backbone of modern industry?
(d) the sage Kapila’s anger for King Sagara’s sons (a) Steel is tough.
8. ‘It was Bhagiratha, whose austere penance….’ The word (b) Steel is used in almost every tool and machinery.
‘austere’ here means: (c) It is easy to make steel alloys.
(a) severe (b) rustic (d) Steel can be added with any material.
(c) bare (d) subdued 14. What is the tone of the passage?
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 9-12): Read the given passage and answer (a) Critical (b) Ironical
(c) Informative (d) Judgemental
the question that follows. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
15. Identify the structure of the passage.
On woody plants known as vines, luscious, smooth-skinned (a) Descriptive (b) Cause and effect
berries called grapes grow in dense clusters. In particular, grapes (c) Sequential (d) Classification
are grown in France, Italy, Spain, Australia, Chile, Romania, 16. Select an appropriate title for the passage from the given
Georgia, South Africa and California, all of which have warm options.
summers and moderate winters. Table grapes are larger and sweeter (a) Mineral ores (b) Manufacturing
grapes that are intended for fresh consumption. To create wine, (c) Steel Industry (d) Resources of Steel
80% of the grapes are crushed. The fermentation process turns
grapes into wine. To make raisins, grapes must also be dried. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 17-20): Read the given passage carefully
Grapes ripen in the area of California in August. They are cut from and answer the question that follows. (SSC CGL 2022, Tier-II)
the vines and left on trays to dry for two to three weeks. So, to The discovery of a new bird species has sparked excitement among
transform them into raisins, they are further cooked and steeped ornithologists and bird enthusiasts worldwide. The bird, named
in particular treatments. According to studies, one acre of grapes the Sapphire-winged Warbler, discovered in a remote tropical
can make roughly 15,000 glasses of wine on average. Grapes of island's rainforests, is a unique bird with vibrant blue feathers and
the Thompson, Flame, Ruby, Perlette and Tokay varieties are a distinctive melodic song. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts
popular. have been flocking to the island in hopes of catching a glimpse of
9. In which region do grapes ripen in August? this elusive and captivating creature. The discovery of the
(a) Chile (b) Australia Sapphire-winged Warbler highlights the importance of preserving
(c) France (d) California and protecting habitats. Amidst the excitement surrounding the
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-25

discovery of the Sapphire-winged Warbler, researchers have 21. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1.
embarked on a mission to uncover the bird's migratory patterns. (a) difference (b) delay
Equipped with satellite tracking devices, they aim to trace the (c) action (d) apathy
remarkable journey of this species across vast distances. By
22. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2.
unravelling its migratory routes and stopover locations, scientists
(a) simple (b) honest
hope to gain insight into the challenges the Sapphire-winged
Warbler faces during its arduous travels. The local community on (c) profound (d) hard
the tropical island has embraced the newfound avian resident 23. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3.
with great enthusiasm. Efforts are underway to raise awareness (a) short-sighted (b) clean
about the importance of conservation and to create protected (c) far-reaching (d) inadequate
areas that ensure the continued existence of this exquisite species. 24. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.
17. Based on the given passage, which of the following (a) solutions (b) results
inferences can be made?
(c) effects (d) consequences
(a) The Sapphire-winged Warbler is an aggressive and
territorial bird species. 25. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.
(b) Conservation efforts are solely focused on protecting (a) instances (b) efforts
the Sapphire-winged Warbler. (c) direction (d) cases
(c) The discovery of the Sapphire-winged Warbler has DIRECTIONS (Qs. 26-30): In the following passage, some words
sparked global interest in birdwatching. have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the
(d) The scientific community has lost interest in studying most appropriate option to fill in each blank. (SSC Sten. 2022)
avian species.
18. Which statement best reflects a fact mentioned in the given KIPS, with its vast (1) ____ in School Computer Education, (2)
passage? ____ the computer Series- Cyber Beans. This is the (3) ____
(a) The Sapphire-winged Warbler is the only bird species comprehensive computer series, (4) ____ is free from role learning.
on the tropical island. While designing this series, a lot of effort has been put in to give
(b) Schools on the island organise annual bird-watching each (5) ____ a practical shape.
competitions. 26. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 1.
(c) Researchers are using satellite tracking devices to study (a) share (b) experience
the bird's migratory patterns. (c) belief (d) membership
(d) The Sapphire-winged Warbler is the largest bird species 27. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 2.
in the avian kingdom. (a) has designed (b) is designing
19. Select the most appropriate title for the given passage. (c) designed (d) will design
(a) The Unique Features of the Sapphire-winged Warbler 28. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 3.
(b) The Migratory Journey of the Sapphire-winged Warbler
(a) more (b) least
(c) Conservation Efforts in Tropical Rainforests
(c) great (d) most
(d) The Curious Behaviour of Birds in Remote Islands
29. Select the most appropriate otpion to fill in blank 4.
20. Identify the most appropriate ANTONYM of the word ‘stare’
(a) which (b) whose
from the passage.
(c) who (d) that
(a) Vibrancy (b) Excitement
30. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 5.
(c) Glimpse (d) Arduousness
(a) views (b) process
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 21-25): In the following passage, some words
(c) concept (d) aspect
have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the
most appropriate option to fill in each blank. (SSC Sten. 2022) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 31-35): In the following passage, some words
have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the
Climate change is a pressing global issue that demands immediate most appropriate option to fill in each blank. (SSC Sten. 2022)
(1) ____. The Earth's climate is undergoing (2) ____ changes
Exploitation in the marketplace happens in various (1) ____. For
primarily due to human activities, Such as burning fossil fuels
and deforestation. The consequences of climate change are (3) example, sometimes traders indulge in (2) ____ trade practices
____ and include rising global temperatures, extreme weather such as when shopkeepers weigh less than what they should or
events, and biodiversity loss. To mitigate these effects, it is crucial when traders add charges that were not mentioned before, or
to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy when (3) ____ goods are sold. Markets do not work in a fair
sources, and adopt sustainable (4) ____. Additionally, raising manner when producers are few and powerful whereas consumers
awareness and educating the public about the importance of purchase in small amounts and are (4) ____. This happens
conservation and environmentally friendly practices are essential. especially when large companies are producing these goods.
Cooperation and international (5) ____ are needed to address These companies with huge wealth, power and reach can (5)
climate change collectively. ____ the market in various ways.
N-26 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

31. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1. important events or people that have had a major impact on human
(a) ways (b) means history. For example, the Great Wall of China is recognised as a
(c) status (d) paths World Heritage Site because of its historical and cultural
32. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2. importance to China and the world. The wall was constructed
(a) ethical (b) partial over a period of centuries to protect China from invasion and has
(c) unfair (d) decent become a symbol of China's strength and determination.
33. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3. Another important aspect of World Heritage Sites is their natural
(a) adulterated (b) diseased beauty. These sites are often recognised for their unique
(c) liquid (d) purified geological formations, breath-taking landscapes and diverse
34. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4. ecosystems. The Great Barrier Reef in Australia, for example, is a
(a) organised (b) disorderly World Heritage Site because of its unparalleled biodiversity and
(c) scattered (d) concentrated natural beauty. The reef is home to thousands of species of marine
35. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5. life and provides an important habitat for many endangered
(a) employ (b) manipulate species. Preserving World Heritage Sites is crucial for maintaining
(c) exercise (d) surrender their cultural and natural significance. Many sites are under threat
from a variety of factors, including climate change, natural
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 36-40): In the following passage, some words disasters and human activities such as tourism and development.
have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the For this reason, UNESCO works with governments and local
most appropriate option to fill in each blank. (SSC Sten. 2022) communities around the world to develop strategies for protecting
A stone that is constantly rolling cannot gather moss, while a and preserving these important landmarks.
stone that remains lying in one (1) ____ will gather it after a time. Despite these efforts, many World Heritage Sites continue to
In the same way, a man who is a rolling stone, who is constantly face threats. For example, the ancient city of Palmyra in Syria,
(2) ____ his occupations and pursuits, and does not settle which was recognised as a World Heritage Site in 1980, was
(3) ____ long for any particular work, achieves little or no extensively damaged by ISIS militants in 2015. The destruction
(4) ____ in life. One who is constantly chopping and changing of this important cultural site was a devastating loss for the people
will never become wealthy and get success in life. He will merely of Syria and the world.
be dissipating his energies, and will get nowhere. As the proverb In conclusion, World Heritage Sites are of great importance to
says, 'He who hunts two hares, loses (5) ____. humanity, and their preservation is crucial for maintaining our
36. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 1. cultural and natural heritage. The recognition of these sites by
(a) locality (b) place UNESCO is an important step towards their protection and
(c) size (d) society preservation for future generations.
37. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 2. 41. How does UNESCO work to protect World Heritage Sites?
(a) agile (b) active (a) By conducting regular inspections and assessments
(c) moving (d) changing to identify potential threats and risks
38. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 3. (b) By limiting access to the sites to reduce the impact of
(a) upon (b) below tourism and development
(c) after (d) down (c) By enforcing strict laws and regulations to prevent
39. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 4. any damage or destruction
(a) seniority (b) success (d) By working with governments and local communities
(c) majority (d) priority to develop strategies for their preservation
40. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 5. 42. Find the ANTONYM of the word 'unparalleled'
(a) nothing (b) everything (a) Devastation (b) Barrier
(c) both (d) equal (c) Strategies (d) Frequent
43. Identify the structure of the passage.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 41-45): Read the given passage and answer
(a) Cause and effect (b) Chronological
the questions that follow. (SSC Sten. 2022)
(c) Problem and solution (d) Compare and contrast
World heritage refers to cultural or natural landmarks that have 44. What are some of the factors that threaten World Heritage
been recognised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific Sites?
and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for their outstanding value (a) Climate change, natural disasters and human activities
to humanity. These landmarks are considered to be of great such as tourism and development
importance to human history and culture and are therefore (b) Political unrest, wars and terrorism
protected by international treaties to ensure their preservation (c) A decline in public interest and appreciation for
for future generations. cultural demands
One of the most important aspects of World Heritage Sites is (d) Lack of funding and government support through many
their cultural significance. These sites are often associated with institutions
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-27

45. Which of the following would be the most suitable title for between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw, which leads to
this passage? betrayal and revenge. Heathcliff's thirst for vengeance drives the
(a) World Heritage Sites- a natural beauty to explore plot, inflicting suffering upon those who wronged him, particularly
(b) The threats facing World Heritage Sites due to humans Edgar Linton and Isabella. The novel explores themes of love,
(c) The role of UNESCO in protecting World Heritage Sites revenge, social class, and the destructive power of unchecked
(d) The importance of World Heritage Sites to human passion. Wuthering Heights presents complex characters, most
history and culture notably Heathcliff, who challenges conventional notions of
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 46-50): Read the given passage carefully heroism and romance. Against the backdrop of the wild moors,
and answer the questions that follows. (SSC Sten. 2022) Bronte weaves a dark and haunting tale that continues to
captivate readers.
Where there is a will, there is a way, that is, if we are really 51. How does Heathcliff challenge conventional notions of
determined to do a thing, however difficult it may be, however heroism?
great obstacles in our path, we shall at last find a way of doing it.
(a) By being extremely passionate
All difficulties, all hardships, all obstacles, however
insurmounlable they may appear, melt before a determined will. A (b) By showing extreme emotions of obsession, exacting
fierce desire, a strong determination, an iron will, will overcome revenge and inflicting pain on others.
all obstacles and triumph over all difficulties. A strong will is like (c) By failing in love with Catherine
a rushing torrent that sweeps away rocks and stones and trees in (d) By living in the Wuthering Heights manor
the path. Men who have 'towered high above their fellows' have 52. Select the most appropriate synonym of the word
been remarkable for their undaunted will. 'conventional'.
46. Identify the main theme of the passage. (a) Customary (b) Contemporary
(a) The main theme of the passage is trusting oneself. (c) Unusual (d) Abnormal
(b) The main theme of the passage is to have an ambition 53. Identify the central theme of the passage.
and a desire in life. (a) Life of Emily Bronte
(c) The main theme of the passage is strong will. A person (b) Summary of Wuthering Heights
having strong will can achieve anything in life. (c) Heathcliff's thirst for revenge
(d) The main theme of the passage is to have a goal in life. (d) The affair between Heathcliff and Catherine
47. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM for the given word. 54. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the word
Undaunted 'vengeance'.
(a) Indomitable (b) Impetuous (a) Custom (b) Requital
(c) Feisty (d) Cowardly (c) Forgiveness (d) Compensation
48. Identify the tone of the passage. 55. Who is entranced by the neighbouring farmhouse named
(a) Worried (b) Informal Wuthering Heights?
(c) Humorous (d) Encouraging (a) Mr. Lockwood (b) Catherine Ernshaw
49. Identify the structure of the passage. (c) Edgar Linton (d) Isabella
(a) Problem and solution (b) Chronological
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 56-60): In the following passage, some words
(c) Process (d) Description have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the
50. Select a suitable title for the passage. most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
(a) Where There's A Will, There's A Way (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I)
(b) Birds of a Feather Flock Together
Unemployment arises from a variety of ____ (a). One which is
(c) A Rolling Stone Gathers no Moss
always recurring and the effects of which we have had a recent
(d) Make a Mountain of a Molehill example, is the disorganisation of industry resulting from a long
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 51-55) Read the given passage and answer war; this is a serious ____ (b) admitting of no easy _____ (c) at
the questions that follow. (SSC Sten. 2022) the best of times, Again there is the unemployment which followed
a marked diminution in the _____ (d) of any raw product, such as
Wuthering Heights, penned by Emily Bronte, is a captivating
cotton; fewer hands are required in the mills and the factories. We
novel set on the desolate moors of Yorkshire. The story revolves
may call this cause of bad harvests. Similar, but more serious is
around the intense relationships and obsessions of its characters.
the effect of changes in industry due to the invention of machinery
The narrative begins with Mr. Lockwood, who rents Thrushcross
Grange from the enigmatic Heathcliff. Intrigued by the which does more work and require ______ (e) hands. Yet another
cause is strike or lockout and this is more to be deplored because
neighbouring farmhouse, Wuthering Heights, Lockwood delves
such a stoppage is due to a very trivial matter, perhaps the men
into the complex history of the Earnshaw and Linton families.
are working half an hour longer than what their Union permits.
The heart of the story focuses on the passionate love affair
N-28 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

56. Select the most aprropriate option to fill in blank (a). (b) There were distinct regions in the cortex of healthy
(a) causes (b) thoughts students in comparison to participants having early
(c) things (d) types behavioural issues.
57. Select the most aprropriate option to fill in blank (b). (c) Distinct regions of the cortex were thicker in the
(a) difference (b) discussion teenagers having early-onset behavioural issues in
(c) nature (d) problem comparison to the healthy participants.
58. Select the most aprropriate option to fill in blank (c). (d) There were participants having early behavioural
(a) key (b) clue issues in comparison to healthy students who had
(c) answer (d) solution distinct regions in their cortex.
59. Select the most aprropriate option to fill in blank (d). 63. Which of the following is NOT impacted by the cortex?
(a) material (b) quality (a) Attention and disobedience
(c) quantity (d) cloth (b) Memory and attention
60. Select the most aprropriate option to fill in blank (e). (c) Language and awareness
(a) fewer (b) more (d) Memory and perception
(c) many (d) a lot of 64. Which of the following was measured in scanned images?
(a) Psychiatric condition (b) Brain's outer layer
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 61-64): Read the given passage and answer
(c) Cortex disparities (d) Behavioural issues
the questions that follow. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 65-68): Read the given passage and answer
Environmental or genetic influences antisocial conduct of a human the questions that follow. (SSC CHSL 2023, Tier-II)
being, which has an impact on behaviours, such as conduct
disorder. In a recent study conducted, young people with conduct Taekwondo is a form of empty hand martial arts combat that
disorders had their brains examined, along with controls that requires the athlete to use all parts of the body in competition.
were healthy and did not have the disease. The thickness of Taekwondo is a self-defence discipline; the name is derived from
various regions of the cortex and the brain's outer layer was the Korean words 'tae', meaning kick, 'kwon', a punch or other
measured using the scanned images. It was demonstrated in the blow with the hand or fist, and 'do', which is a way or method of
study that conduct disorder is a psychiatric condition rather operation. Among the general public, taekwondo is distinguished
than adolescent disobedience. Awareness, perception, attention, from other martial arts by its high speed, Sweeping kicks and
memory and language are all impacted by the cortex. emphatic punches. As with judo, taekwondo was developed as a
sport that is also representative of a moral code, where principles
The findings of the study were unexpected. They demonstrated
of loyalty, faithfulness, respect, and the preservation of an
distinct disparities between adolescents whose behavioural
indomitable spirit form a significant part of taekwondo training.
issues began in adolescence and those whose issues began earlier
Beginning in 1945, shortly after the end of World War II and
in life. Although both groups were different from healthy controls,
Japanese Occupation, new martial arts schools called kwans
it was discovered that distinct regions of the cortex in the
opened in Seoul. These schools were established by Korean
teenagers who had experienced early-onset behavioural issues
martial artists with backgrounds in Japanese and Chinese martial
were thicker in comparison to the healthy participants. arts. At the time, indigenous disciplines (such as Taekkyeon)
61. Select the most appropriate summary of the sentence given were being forgotten, due to years of decline and repression by
below. the Japnese colonial government. The umbrella term traditional
It was demonstrated in the study that conduct disorder is a Taekwondo typically refers to the martial arts practiced by the
psychiatric condition rather than adolescent disobedience. kwans during the 1940s and 1950s, though in reality the term
(a) conduct disorder is a mental condition rather than teen 'Taekwondo' had not yet been coined at that time, and indeed
defiance. each kwan (school) was practicing its own unique style of the
(b) conduct disorder is teen defiance and not a mental Korean art.
condition. 65. Which of the following is NOT a principle of Taekwondo?
(c) Conduct disorder is neither a mental condition nor (a) Faithfulness
teen defiance. (b) Indomitable spirit
(d) Conduct disorder is less of a mental condition and (c) Loyalty
more of teen defiance. (d) Disrespect
62. Based on your reading of the passage, select the most 66. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
appropriate option that describes the conclusion of the (a) Aberrant (b) Unusual
study. (c) Theoretical (d) Typical
(a) There were no distinct regions in the cortex of 67. What is Taekwondo a form of?
participants having early behavioural issues in (a) Visual arts (b) Conceptual arts
comparison to healthy students. (c) Martial arts (d) Performing arts
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-29

68. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 74 - 77) Read the following passage and
Indomitable answer the questions given after it. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
(a) Invincible
Amidst a maze of rocks tucked in the Aravalli mountain ranges of
(b) Submissive
Haryana, a team of archaeologists discovered cave paintings
(c) Unstoppable
they believe belong to the Upper Palaeolithic age. The cave
(d) Strong
paintings have been discovered just outside the national capital
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 69-73): Read the given passage and answer and a stone’s throw away from a holy grove called Mangar Bani-
the question that follows. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2023) the region’s only surviving patch of primary forest. While the
We started our research into organisational and personal residents of the villages have been familiar with the paintings for
excellence by studying a slightly different topic. We figured that ages, the Haryana government’s museum and archaeology
if we could learn why certain people were more effective than department took note of them just recently. A fact-finding team
others, then we could learn exactly what they did, clone it and was sent to the area in the last week of June. The team came
pass it on to others. We asked people to identify who they thought across cave paintings comprising images of human figurines,
were their most effective colleagues. In fact, over the past twenty animals, foliage, and geometric drawings. While some have paled
- five years, we have asked over twenty thousand people to over time, others are still very visible. They also discovered rock
identify the individuals in their organisations who could really art and open-air ceremonial sites. Banani Bhattacharyya, deputy
get things done. We wanted to find those who were not just director of the department of archaeology and museums informed,
influential but who were far more influential than the rest. “So far, cave paintings in Delhi-NCR have only been found here.
69. Which real life situation can be the most appropriate to be The paintings are yet to be dated but at least some of them
inferred from the passage? belong to the Upper Palaeolithic period in all likelihood. We are
(a) Inflation has direct influence on the morals and ethics viewing the paintings in continuation with the Soanian culture
of an individual. which has been found in Shivalik hills, Narmada and Aravallis.”
(b) If we do something wrong to decent people, the same Most of the cave paintings found were in ochre colour, but some
comes to haunt us even after many years. were in white. As per experts, cave paintings in white are usually
(c) People nowadays do not have patience and want quick from a later stage (early contemporary era), while Stone Age
success and does not matter what path they choose paintings are more often than not in ochre. “Stone age paintings
to obtain their targets. generally use red and ochre colours. Stones of these colour used
(d) Jassie is an efficient employee whose work ethics can to be available locally and inhabitants crushed the stones for
be a case study to learn more about organisational preparing the colour for paintings,” added Bhattacharyya. The
and personal excellence. Upper Paleolithic Age began around 40,000 years ago and lasted
70. Select the most suitable structure for the above passage. till around 10,000 years ago. While yet to be established through
(a) Chronological (b) Cause and Effect.
archaeological dating, Bhattacharyya says the Mangar cave art
(c) Pragmatic (d) Compare and Contrast
is 20,000-40,000 years old. Bhattacharyya claimed that the
71. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
discovery is extremely significant. “Starting from the Lower
Effective
Palaeolithic to Middle Palaeolithic then Upper Palaeolithic, we
(a) Deniable (b) Harmonious
see the evolution here. We have found significant remains from
(c) Fruitless (d) Courteous
72. Select the most appropriate title to the given passage. Lower Palaeolithic till Middle and Upper Palaeolithic period too,”
(a) Research Grants in Organisaitions she explained. “Though tools from the Palaeolithic Age have
(b) Learn, Clone and Pass been identified earlier in parts of the Aravallis, it is for the first
(c) Most Effective Colleagues time that cave paintings and rock art of a large magnitude have
(d) Different Topics been found in Haryana,” she added.
73. Select the statement that most appropriately sums up the 74. The cave paintings found in Aravalli hills are significant
passage given. mainly because
(a) Some people cannot be identified due to their most (a) they are the only prehistoric cave paintings found in
effective ways in 25 years. Aravalli Hills.
(b) Research grants in an organisation should be increased (b) they are found in such a large magnitude for the first
for personal excellence. time.
(c) It takes 25 year for research to make people more (c) they have been discovered just outside the national
effective and influential. capital, Delhi
(d) Some people are more effective and more influential (d) they depict the evolution from Lower to Upper
than others to get things done. Paleolithic period.
N-30 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

75. Most of the cave paintings found in Mangar forest area in 78. Match the following crops with the area.
Haryana are in which colour? Crop area in 2022-23
(a) black (b) white a. millets 1. 98.02 lakh hectares
(c) red (d) ochre b. pulses 2. 53.49 lakh hectares
76. Which of the following statement is NOT correct according c. mustard 3. 167.86 lakh hectares
to the passage? (a) a - 1, b - 3, c - 2
(a) The cave men crushed the locally available stones for (b) a - 3, b - 1, c - 2
preparing the colour for paintings. (c) a - 2, b -1, c - 3
(b) The paintings comprise images of human figurines, (d) a - 2, b - 3, c - 1
animals, foliage, and geometric drawings. 79. On which of the following crops, is the Indian Government
(c) The Mangar cave art is 20,000-40,000 years old. specially focussing this year?
(d) The paintings in red belong to early contemporary era (a) rice (b) oilseeds
77. The archaeological findings in the Mangar Forest consist (c) pulses (d) millets
of all the following except 80. The main theme of the passage is
(a) tools (b) ceremonial sites (a) increase in the area of Rabi crops in 2022-23
(c) cave paintings (d) rock art (b) area under rabi crop in last five years
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 78-81): Read the following passage and (c) increase in the production of pulses
answer the questions given after it. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II) (d) increase in the area of oilseeds like mustard
81. Which state recorded the maximum increase in sown area
Total area sown under Rabi crops has increased by 3.25% from of the rice crop?
697.98 lakh hectares in 2021-22 to 720.68 lakh hectares in 2022-23. (a) Chhattisgarh (b) Telangana
This is 22.71 lakh hectares more this year compared to (c) Rajasthan (d) Madhya Pradesh
corresponding period of 2021-22. Comparing with normal sown DIRECTIONS (Qs. 82 - 85) Read the given passage and answer
area(average of the last five years), the increase is to the tune of the questions that follow. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-II)
13.71% from 633.80 to 720.68 lakh hectares. The increase in area
is across all crops, - highest being in rice. Out of 22.71 lakh My grandmother, like everybody's grandmother, was an old
hectares increase in all Rabi crops, increase in rice area is 11.20 woman. She had been old and wrinkled for the twenty years that
lakh hectares from 35.05 lakh hectares in 2021-22 to 46.25 lakh I had known her. People said that she once had been young and
hectares in 2022-23. However, this is lower than normal sown pretty and had even had a husband, but that was hard to believe.
area of 47.71 lakh hectares. Maximum increase in area under rice My grandfather's portrait hung above the mantelpiece in the
is in states of Telangana and West Bengal. Area under oilseeds drawing room. He wore a big turban and loose fitting clothes. His
increased by 7.31% from 102.36 lakh hectares during 2021-22 to long, white beard covered the best part of his chest and he looked
109.84 lakh hectares this year. The increase in area under oilseeds at least a hundred years old. He did not look the sort of person
at the rate of 7.31% is more than double the rate of increase of who would have a wife or children. He looked as if he could only
3.25% in all crops together. Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and have lots and lots of grandchildren. As my grandmother being
Chhattisgarh accounted for major expansion in area of oilseeds. young and pretty, the thought was almost revolting. She often
Rapeseed & Mustard contributed maximum in increasing oilseeds told us of the games she used to play as a child. That seemed
area during this Rabi season. Mustard area increased by 6.77 quite absurd and undignified on her part and we treated it like the
lakh hectares from 91.25 lakh hectares in 2021-22 to 98.02 lakh fables of the Prophets she used to tell us.
hectares in 2022-23. Thus, out of 7.49 lakh hectares increase in 82. Select the most appropriate fact from the given options.
area under oilseeds, rapeseed & mustard alone accounted for (a) The author and grandma lived for twenty years.
6.44 lakh hectares. Pulse production is being focused to make (b) Grandma was twenty years old.
country self-sufficient in these commodities. Area under pulses (c) The author was twenty when grandma died.
increased by 0.56 lakh hectares from 167.31 to 167.86 lakh hectares. (d) The author was twenty years old when he wrote the
Mung bean and lentil accounted for increase in area under pulses. story.
The United Nations General Assembly has declared the year 83. Select an appropriate title for the given passage.
2023 as the International Year of Millets and India is at the forefront (a) The Grandchildren
in celebrating the event in a big way. In order to create awareness (b) My Grandfather
about the benefits of millets as superfood and to meet its growing (c) Grandmothers
demand around the world, the Government is promoting millet (d) My Grandmother
production through the NFSM-Nutri Cereals component of 84. Selecting the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given
National Food Security Mission programme in 212 districts of 14 word.
states. Coarse cum Nutri-cereals saw an increase of 2.08 lakh Revolting
hectares in area under cultivation from 51.42 lakh hectares in (a) Attractive (b) Unpleasant
2021-22 to 53.49 lakh hectares in 2022-23. (c) Rebel (d) Peace
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-31

85. Select the most appropriate inference drawn from the (a) street food such as (b) street food that
passage. (c) street food which as (d) street food like as
(a) The author looked upon his grandmother as an old 6. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the
woman like every grandmother. underlined segment in the given sentence.
(b) People said that the grandmother was pretty. Many Cubans in circumstances similar to what I had become
(c) Grandmother had a husband. American citizens at the first opportunity.
(d) Grandmother loved to talk of her childhood (SSC Sten. 2022)
Essential English Grammar (a) like those of mine (b) similar to mine
(c) like that of mine (d) similar to what I have
1. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the 7. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
underlined segment in the given sentence. underlined segment in the following sentence.
All the guests I have invited to the movie screening have (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I)
shown unwilling due to their busy schedules. With the harsh words of the boss, Srujan felt sad, but his
(a) had shown unwilling (SSC Sten. 2022) colleague's words created insult to injury.
(b) are unwillingness (a) attached insult to injury
(c) are being unwilling (b) provoked insult to injury
(d) have shown unwillingness (c) added injury to insult
2. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the (d) added insult to injury
underlined segment in the given sentence. 8. Choose the correct meaning of the underlined word in the
Don't see into my phone. (SSC Sten. 2022) given sentence. (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I)
(a) watch into (b) watch through When I was in Class 5, I won the first prize in extempore at
(c) see through (d) look at my school
3. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the (a) A short piece of writing on a subject.
underlined segment in the given sentence. (b) A sports event
The fluffy cat used to make a feeble cry by the others only (c) A speech delivered without prior preparation or
which food was supplied by Leepika. rehearsal
(d) A dramatic performance on stage
(a) Over the others when food (SSC Sten. 2022)
9. Select the most appropriate homophone to fill in the blank.
(b) about the others while food Even animals find it difficult to ____ the loss of their loved ones.
(c) among the others what food (SSC CHSL 2023, Shift-I)
(d) above the others where food (a) bear
4. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the (b) wear
underlined segment in the given sentence. (c) where
We are discussing for the same matter. (SSC Sten. 2022) (d) bare
(a) discussing of (b) discussing upon 10. Identify the sentence that correctly uses the indefinite
(c) discussing about (d) discussing article. (SSC CGL 2023, Tier-I)
5. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the (a) I have never seen a UFO in a English movie.
(b) I have never seen an UFO in a English movie.
underlined segment in the given sentence.
(c) I have never seen a UFO in an English movie.
She likes street food such that golgappe, tikka and chaat.
(d) I have never seen an UFO in an English movie.
(SSC Sten. 2022)
N-32 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

HINTS & EXPLANATIONS

Synonyms 9. (a) The most appropriate synonym for 'jubilant' is
overjoyed. Jubilant means to feel extreme happiness,
1. (d) Following are the meanings of the words on the list- especially because of success. Overjoyed also means
• Sabbatical-a period of paid leave granted to a university
to be happy. The meanings of the other three words are
teacher or other worker for study or travel
given below:
• Egotistical- having an inflated sense of one’s own
Terrified: very afraid
importance
Journeyed: to travel somewhere (it is past tense of
• Sceptical- having or expressing doubt about something
journey)
• Fanatical- motivated or characterized by an extreme,
Stunted: to stop someone from growing or developing
uncritical enthusiasm
properly (it is past tense of stunt).
The word ‘radical’ has the similar meaning to
10. (b) The remaining three words, restricted, limited and
‘fanatical’ as they both imply a person wanting great
hindered are negative in nature when used in the
social and political change.
sentence since it describes positive virtues such as
2. (c) The word that has the same contextual meaning as
perseverance and mental toughness in overcoming
‘challenge’ is ‘question’. The idea conveyed here is to
adversities and achieving goals.
keep pushing oneself ahead and not get complacent
11. (c) The meaning of the word, ‘repulsive’ is something that
on the way.
causes a strong feeling of disgust. Hence, the synonym
3. (d) The correct synonym of Flout would be defy.
of repulsive is ‘disgusting’.
Word Synonyms
12. (c) The meaning of the word 'resentment' is 'a feeling of
Rude Cheeky, impolite, insolent etc
anger that arises one is forced to accept something that
Poke Sting, jab, nudge etc
one doesn't like'. The synonym of the word is 'anger' for
Rash Reckless, hasty, impulsive etc
4. (b) From the given options the correct synonym of Faithful it has similar meaning.
is devoted. 13. (c) The word 'pompous' means 'having or showing an
Word Synonyms attitude of being very serious and formal'. The word
Wavering Falter, wobble , tremble etc. that has similar meaning is 'supercilious'. Other words
Untrustworthy Dishonest, deceitful, unfaithful etc. on the list have the following meanings-
Fickle Variable, unstable, fitful etc. Conciliatory- intended to gain favour or goodwill, or to
5. (c) The synonym of the word 'trivial' from the given list of reduce hostility Benign- kind or gentle Diplomatic-
options is 'insignificant'. The meanings of the other connected with diplomacy.
words are as follows- 14. (d) The word ‘humble’ refers to not thinking that you are
· Majestic- causing great admiration and respect better or more important than other people. Hence,
· Conceited- to be too proud of one's abilities and ‘modest’ is a synonym to humble, which is similar in
achievements meaning, which is, not talking too much about your
· Idiotic- stupid or silly own abilities or good qualities. The meanings of the
6. (a) The most appropriate synonym for 'intricate' will be remaining words are:
'complex'. 'Intricate' means complicated or detailed, and Beautiful: very pretty or attractive
'complex' means consisting of many different and Keen: showing a quick responsiveness
connected parts. The remaining words are described Amusing: causing one to laugh or smile
with their meanings- 15. (a) The term ‘random’ means ‘lacking order or purpose’.
Systematic: doing an activity according to a fixed plan, Like ‘haphazard’, it suggests something disorganized,
in a methodical way. unplanned, and unpredictable.
Fantastic: extraordinarily good or attractive 16. (c) The word that has similar meaning to ‘access’ is
Reasonable: fair and sensible ‘avenue’, meaning ‘a way of doing or getting
7. (a) The synonym for 'parched' is 'arid'. The sentence will be
something’.
read as- "The Government is planning to irrigate the
arid desert land by using water from the nearby river." 17. (d) The correct synonym of ‘justifiable’ is ‘reasonable’.
8. (d) The most appropriate synonym for lavish is 'luxurious'. Other words on the list have the following meanings-
Lavish means to spend or bestow p r ofu s e l y. While · Indefensible- completely wrong
luxurious m eans to be cha racteri sed by rich · Neutral- not supporting or belonging to either side in
abundance. an argument
· Maintainable- capable of being maintained
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-33

18. (b) The words on the list have the following meanings- 6. (a) The word 'opaque' refers to 'not able to be seen through'.
· Feeble- Weak The antonym for opaque will be intelligible, which means
· Terrible- Very unpleasant the ability to be understood or comprehensible. The
· Auspicious- that seems likely to be successful in the other words with their meanings are:
future Transient: lasting only for a short time
· Propitious- favourable Volatile: liable to change rapidly and unpredictably
The word closest in meaning with ‘dreadful’ is ‘terrible’, Conventional: based on or in accordance with what is
meaning unpleasant. generally done or believed
19. (b) The word ‘site’ has the same meaning as ‘location’. 7. (c) The most appropriate antonym of the word, 'reluctantly'
20. (b) Both ‘abandon’ and ‘desert’ mean ‘to leave somebody is zealously. Reluctant means unwilling and hesitant.
or something that you are responsible for’. Thus, option And zealously means with great energy or enthusiasm.
(b) is the right answer. The meanings of the remaining words are:
21. (d) Smartly: in a manner showing quick-witted intelligence
Word Synonyms or skill.
Unwillingly: against one's wishes
Arrogant Haughty, conceited, egoistic etc.
Fairly: with justice
Poor Needy, impecunious, beggarly etc. 8. (b) The most appropriate antonym for 'collapse' is 'flourish'.
Adaptable Flexible, plaint, resilient etc. The word flourish means growing or developing in a
healthy way, primarily due to a congenial environment.
At risk Vulnerable, jeopardy, menace etc.
9. (b) The most appropriate antonym for 'compatible' is
inconsistent. Compatible refers to a suitability to be
22. (b) Word Synonyms
used together or humans living together. On the other
Involve Immerse hand, inconsistent refers to something that does not
Emerge Appear. match or is the same as something else.
Distant Far off 10. (d) The most appropriate antonym for 'ruthless' is lenient.
Uncover Bare, expose Ruthless means hard and cruel or determined to get
what you want and showing no pity to others. Whereas,
23. (d) In the context of consultation with doctor, we use the lenient means not as strict as expected.
word ‘prescribed’ and not ‘advised’ even though both
11. (b) The most appropriate antonym for 'general' is specific.
the words have the same meaning.
The word 'specific' means detailed or exact. While
24. (d) From the given list of options, option (d) has the correct 'general' refers to a description of a main part of
pair of synonyms. ‘Threshold’ can be described as the something, and not the details.
point of entering or beginning. ‘Dawn’, like ‘threshold’ 12. (c) The antonym for the word ‘feud’ is harmony. Feud
refers to a beginning or a starting point. means an angry and serious argument between two
people or groups that continues over a long period of
Antonyms time. Whereas harmony is defined as a state of
1. (c) The term ‘viscous’ means ‘thick and sticky’. Other words agreement or of peaceful existence together.
on the list have following meanings- 13. (d) The meaning of the word 'meagre' is 'too small in
• Grim- very serious amount'. The opposite of the word is 'generous', meaning
• Brutal- cruel or violent 'giving away things more than is expected'.
• Watery- containing or filled with water 14. (c) The word 'commitment' means 'a promise or agreement
• Thick- more in width to do something'. The opposite of the word is 'breach',
Clearly, the word opposite in meaning to viscous is meaning infraction or violation of law. Thus, they are
‘watery’. Thus, option (c) is the correct answer. opposites.
2. (a) The word ‘careless’ means ‘not thinking enough about 15. (c) The word 'fundamental' means 'basic and important'.
what you are doing’. The opposite of the word from the The word that is opposite in meaning to the given word
given list of options is ‘vigilant’, meaning ‘careful’. is 'least'.
3. (b) Audacious is an adjective which means willing to take
16. (a) The word ‘sharp’ in this context refers to ‘having a thin
risks or do something shocking. The correct antonym
keen edge or fine point’. Its antonym will be blunt,
to audacious is timid, meaning someone who is easily
meaning ‘having an edge or point that is not sharp’.
frightened or nervous. Not willing to take risks.
The meanings of the remaining words are:
4. (a) Sanitise means to clean, the antonym that is the opposite
Kindled: to start a fire or to make something start to
of Sanitise from the given options is to pollute which
means to make dirty or filthy. burn
5. (c) The most appropriate antonym of absolve is 'condemn'. Magnetic: able to be attracted by a magnet
The meaning of absolve is to declare someone free from Handy: within easy reach
guilt, obligation or punishment. The opposite word for 17. (a) The opposite of the word ‘moving’ is ‘steady’, meaning
absolve will be condemn which means to sentence to stop something from moving, shaking or falling; to
(someone) to a particular punishment, especially death. stop moving, shaking or falling.
N-34 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

18. (b) The words on the list have the following meaning- Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test
• Calamity- a terrible event that causes a lot of damage or
harm 1. (b) The words on the list have following meanings-
• Fortuitous- happening by chance rather than intention • Stunted- to stop something from growing or developing
• Fabricated- to invent something false in order to deceive
• Fiasco- an event that does not succeed, often in a way people
that causes embarrassment • Hateful- detestable
• Sabotage- damage that is done on purpose and secretly • Authentic-genuine
in order to prevent an enemy or a competitor being It is clear from the above list that ‘fabricated’ fits
successful appropriately in the given context, giving the meaning
It follows from the above list that, ‘catastrophic’ which that the police tweaked the evidence to convict a person
means causing sudden and very great harm or who was innocent.
destruction, is opposite to option (b) fortuitous. 2. (c) The correct word in the given context is ‘grown’. Other
19. (a) The meaning of the word ‘negligent’ is ‘failing to take words on the list have following meanings-
proper or normal care’. The word opposite in meaning • gross- very great or serious
to ‘negligent’ is ‘attentive’. • grilled- to question somebody for a long time
• groan- to make a deep sad sound because you are in
20. (b) The word ‘damp’ means ‘a little wet’. The opposite of
pain
‘damp’ is ‘arid’, meaning ‘very dry’.
3. (b) In the given context, V2 form of the verb will be used as
21. (d)
the dominant tense of the sentence is past tense
(‘knocked her down’). Thus, the complete sentence is
Word Meaning Antonym ‘The person driving the car lost control over the wheels
Careless not thinking enough about what you are Meticulous
and knocked her down.’
doing so that you make mistakes
4. (b) The words on the list have the following meanings-
Careful thinking about what you are doing so that Extravagant
• Subsidize- to give money in order to keep the cost of a
you do not have an accident or make
mistakes, etc service low
• Aggrandize- to increase the power, rank or wealth of a
Heedful Aware and attentive to Inattentive
person or country
Untidy Unclean Orderly • Jeopardize- to do something that may damage
something or put it at risk
22. (a) • Methodize- to arrange in an orderly manner
In case of the given context, ‘aggrandize’ is the correct
Word Meaning Antonym word referring to the intent of the lord to become wealthy
Aid To help Hinder and powerful.
Force Power or influence Passivity 5. (a) Salvador Dali was a 20th century Spanish painter. Thus,
Domesticate Accustom or familiarise Abandon simple past tense will be used in the first blank.
Monitor to leave completely and restraint
6. (d) Contextually, option (d) ‘born’ is the right answer.
finally; forsake utterly 7. (d) The correct possessive pronoun is ‘his’ as Salvador
Dali is a name of a man. Thus, option (d) is the correct
answer.
Word Antonym 8. (b) The relative pronoun ‘who’ will be used to refer to Dali’s
Courageous Nervous nine-year old brother.
Casual Serious 9. (c) The word ‘reincarnation’ refers to the belief that people who
23. (a) Shaky Intact have died can live again in a different body. Thus, it fits
Hesitant Certain appropriately in the given context and is the correct answer.
10. (a) In the given blanks, according to context the suitable
option for the first blank can be either ancestors or
24. (b) Word Synonyms
forefather. However, in the second blank overall is the
Correct Wrong more appropriate option. Hence, by elimination;
Hidden Evident “ancestor, overall” is the correct option.
Profuse Sparse 11. (c) Reptiles evolved from amphibians. For a long period of
Visible Invisible 160 million years in Earth’s history, reptiles were the
dominant form of life on the planet and existed in an
25. (b) ‘Clandestine’ means hidden or secretive. The opposite enormous variety of shapes and sizes.
of ‘clandestine’ is ‘overt’, which means ‘unhidden’ or 12. (c) Here, the action of confrontation is best conveyed with
‘openly’. the adjective Heated. Moreover, the usage of the word
26. (d) ‘Placid’ means ‘calm’ and ‘serene’. The most appropriate quarrel leads to the adjective which indicates angry
antonym of ‘serene’ is ‘angry’. conversation or confrontation.
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-35

13. (c) The most appropriate verb in the following context years in pursuit of the precious stones." Scouring, in
would be process. this context, means to search a place very carefully since
14. (a) According to the context of the statement, spotted is one may be looking for something.
the most appropriate word in the following blank. 29. (c) The sentence would read as- "There was utter mayhem
15. (d) According to the context and syntax of the sentence, after the explosion." The meaning of mayhem is wilful
the most appropriate pronoun here would be ‘these’. damage or violence. In this context, mayhem would refer
16. (b) The most appropriate verb in the following context to the damage caused after an explosion. The meanings
would be ‘confirm’. of the other three words that would not fit appropriately
17. (b) Smoke is the grey, white or black gas that is released are:
when something is burnt. Like all gaseous elements, Pacifism: an attitude or policy of non-resistance
the verb ‘rises’ is used for smoke. Thus, the correct Force: in terms of violence or compulsion exerted upon
answer is option (b) ‘rose’, past tense of ‘rise’. a person
18. (b) Given the context, future perfect tense should be used Belting: to run or go somewhere very fast
in the sentence. The phrase, 'by this time tomorrow' 30. (c) The sentence would read as- "I could sense the
indicates the idea of completion before a specific time disharmony between husband and wife." The word,
in the future. Thus, option (b) 'will have done' is the 'disharmony' refers to a situation in which there is
correct answer. disagreement and unpleasant feeling between people.
19. (b) The correct homonym in the given context is 'oar', The remaining three words will be inappropriate to fit in
meaning 'a long, wooden pole with a broad blade at one the sentence given, however their meanings are given
end that is used to propel and steer a boat'. below:
20. (c) It is evident in case of the following sentence ('drenched Jangling: to make noise like metal hitting against metal
in the rain') that 'cold' is the right option. Raucous: loud and unpleasant
Sol. (21-24) Tuneless: not pleasant to listen to
The ongoing fight for social justice and equality continues to be 31. (a) The sentence would read as- "Asanas, or yoga
a significant global 1. (b) focus. Movements advocating for racial, postures, primarily serve as a lubrication practice for
gender and LGBTQ+ equality, as well as addressing systemic the body's joints, ligaments, and other parts, boosting
discrimination and injustice, have 2. (b) gained momentum in recent circulation and flexibility."
years. People are increasingly recognising the importance of The meanings of the remaining words that were
dismantling structures that 3. (c) perpetuate inequality and inappropriate to fit in the blank are as follows:
fostering inclusivity in all aspects of society. Calls for justice, Abating: to make something less strong
representation an d equal opportunities have sparked Retrenching: to reduce costs or spending
conversations and initiatives aimed at creating a more equitable Dwindling: to become smaller or weaker
world. It is crucial to 4. (b) engage in meaningful dialogue, challenge 32. (c) The sentence would read as- "The amount of sleep you
biases and actively promote diversity and to build a society where require changes greatly throughout your life, depending
everyone has equal rights and opportunities. on your age, activity level, overall health, and lifestyle
21. (b) 22. (b) 23. (c) 24. (b) patterns.
25. (a) The word 'congestion' is the appropriate term to be filled 33. (b) In this sentence, the word ‘consecutive’ will be used
in the blank here as it is used in the context of traffic on which means happening one after the other. In the game
the roads. It refers to a situation in which a place is too of cricket, when a player hits ‘fours’ or ‘sixes’ one after
blocked or crowded, causing difficulties. the other, the term ‘consecutive’ is used in this context.
26. (d) The sentence will read as- "Hitler's concentration camps 34. (b) The idiom, ‘the ball is in your court’ is the appropriate
mutilated the bodies of the dead captives option to be used in the sentence here. It means that
subsequently." The word, 'mutilate' means to inflict a the initiative for taking action lies with somebody.
violent and disfiguring injury. The remaining three words 35. (b) Since the sentence is in present continuous tense, the
do not fit in the blank appropriately. proper form of talk that is ‘talks’ will fit appropriately in
27. (b) The sentence would complete as- "The fire damaged the blank.
the utensils so much that it was impossible to retrieve 36. (a) Since the sentence talks about being located at a place
them." The remaining three words will not be appropriate from where one can watch the sun, the word ‘watching’
to fit in the blank. Though their meanings are given will fit appropriately in this context.
below: 37. (a) Since the sentence talks about a desire or liking for
Retreat: an act of moving back or withdrawing something, the word ‘fancied’ will fit appropriately here.
Retract: to draw back 38. (b) The preposition, ‘on’ will fill the blank here since the
Retrace: to go back over (the same route that one has grey stone wall of Lismore House is situated on the
just taken) island’s hilltop. ‘On’ indicates that something is already
28. (b) The word, 'scouring' will fit appropriately in the blank. in the position.
The sentence would now read as- "Panna in Madhya 39. (c) The word ‘fantasy’ means the activity of imagining
Pradesh is the diamond mining capital of India, and impossible or improbable things. It fits appropriately in
fortune-seekers have been scouring the territory for the sentence here.
N-36 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

40. (d) The word, ‘stared’ will be appropriate in the blank here 64. (b) Restrictions are ‘imposed’ upon someone. Thus, option
as it means to look or gaze at something for a long time, (b) is the correct option.
with eyes wide open. The other three words, resumed, 65. (b) The dominant tense in the sentence is past tense (‘door
rusted and blocked are incorrect to fill this blank. closed’). Therefore, option (b) ‘blew’ is the correct
41. (c) The sentence will be read as- “Neither of the biscuits option.
you gave me contain chocolate chips.” 66. (c) The word ‘quite’ fits well in the blank because it adds
42. (a) “He was contemplating going abroad for his further emphasis and gives the same meaning as ‘very’ in the
studies.” The word, ‘contemplating’ refers to thinking sentence, making it contextually meaningful.
carefully about something or the possibility of doing 67. (b) The blank should be filled with a word which means
something. ‘used’. ‘Soiled’ means ‘used’ or ‘dirty’.
43. (a) “Mohnish and Ravi are moving to Canada next month.”
68. (c) ‘Breakdown’ means to disintegrate or decompose into
Since it is future tense, ‘are moving’ will appropriately smaller parts.
fit in the sentence. The remaining options refer to only
69. (b) Along with causing death of the woodland animals,
one subject being mentioned through the verbs used.
plastic prevents the growth of plant and its nutrients.
44. (b) The complete sentences are as follows: ‘Inhibits’, gives the same meaning as ‘prevents’. Thus,
A. I use a scale to weigh my ingredients while cooking.
option (b) is correct response.
B. The mountaineer is going to scale the rocky hills.
45. (c) Since the first part of the sentence has ‘now’ which Spotting Errors
specifies present tense, hence, the option, ‘is learning’
will fit appropriately in the sentence. “Stanley is learning 1. (a) There is a preposition error in the phrase ‘help at
to play the violin now, with an amateur instructor.” mitigate’. The correct phrase will be ‘help in mitigating’
46. (b) “Girls have been the victims of many crimes in India for or ‘help to mitigate’. Thus, option (a) is the right answer.
years.” 2. (c) The preposition has been used incorrectly. Instead of
47. (d) “The most fearful crime was female foeticide, in which ‘of’, ‘from’ should be used to make the sentence
girls were killed in the womb of the mother after sex grammatically correct. The appropriate sentence will be
determination through ultrasound.” ‘Adding aloe vera gel will prevent the hand sanitizer
48. (a) “Save the Girl Child campaign has been launched by from drying out your skin.’
the government to end gender-selective abortions of 3. (c) There is an error in the usage of tense in the given
female fetuses as well as other crimes…” sentence. Instead of ‘went’ (simple past tense), ‘go’
(simple present tense) should be used. Thus, option (c)
49. (c) “…as well as other crimes against the girl child.” is the right answer.
Sol. 50-54 4. (b) The correct expression here is ‘Hold on to’ rather than
The Amazon rainforest is an awe-inspiring natural wonder that Hold on
1(d) spans across several South American countries, including 5. (a) ‘to get better’ contains an error according to the context
Brazil, Peru, Colombia, and Ecuador. Covering an 2 (c) estimated of the given sentence. The correct sentence can be ,
area of 5.5 million square kilometres, it is the largest tropical The students were able to get off from college early so
rainforest on Earth. The Amazon jungle is 3 (c) renowned for its they went to the movies.
remarkable biodiversity, harbouring an astonishing array of plant 6. (b) In the sentence 'Everyone should respect those parents,
and animal species that are still being discovered and studied. teachers and elders', the determiner 'those' is incorrectly
The dense vegetation of the jungle creates a 4 (c) vibrant and used. 'Their' is more appropriate in the given context.
complex ecosystem, supporting countless species and providing Thus, the error lies in option (b) and it is the right answer.
crucial ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration and 7. (c) Note that we use the pronoun 'whom' in case of a person
climate regulation. It is also home to 5 (c) indigenous communities and 'which' in case of a thing. Here, with the noun 'book',
that have thrived within its rich confines for centuries, preserving the pronoun 'which' should be used. Thus, option (c) is
their traditions and deep connection to the land. the right answer.
50. (d) 51. (c) 52. (c) 53. (c) 54. (c) 8. (c) The correct phrase to be used is 'happily married'. Thus,
55. (c) The young one of a lion is called a Cub. While, a calf is the error lies in (B) part of the sentence and so option
young one of Cow, Chick is young one of hen and a colt (c) is the right answer.
is the young one of Horse. 9. (b) The error is in the incorrect use of preposition. Here,
56. (b) Here, the quantity is undetermined and subjective; instead of 'in', 'on' should be used to indicate the floor
hence, 'many evil' is used. of the building.
57. (c) 58. (a) 59. (a) 60. (c) 61. (b) 10. (d) There is no need to use the word 'rounder' in this case.
62. (c) The appropriate word with ‘attention’ is ‘pay’. Thus, The term 'round' itself conveys the meaning. Thus,
the correct answer is option (3). option (d) is the right answer.
11. (d) As per subject-verb concord rules, a plural subject is
63. (c) A comparison is being made in the sentence; hence conjugated with a plural verb. With 'we', 'have' is used.
comparative degree of adjectives should be used. Thus, Thus, there is an error in the fourth part of the sentence.
option (c) is the right answer.
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-37

12. (a) There is a spelling error in the given sentence. The word 26. (d) The correct spelling of the word is ITINERARY.
is correctly spelt as 'emphasis'. The correct answer of 27. (d) There is an error in the use of article. We use the definite
the question is option (a). article 'the' with superlative degree. The correct phrase
13. (d) The grammatically correct way of forming the sentence is 'the oldest member'.
is - "Communicating what you felt wasn't always easy 28. (d) This is an example of spotting an error. In the sentence
for Rita." We use 'in' for something inside or enclosed here, it can be corrected as:
by something else. “Those players who chose not to play in the league
14. (d) Though a mile is a quantitative term, it is referred to as were banned from playing in the World Cup.” Since this
a singular form. Therefore, the grammatically correct is a known event in the game of cricket, ‘the’ will be
sentence would be- "Thirty miles is a long way to walk." used before it.
15. (d) The grammatically correct sentence will be- 'Ramya,
29. (d) The sentence is grammatically correct as formed.
Soumya's sister, always tells Kiran that she will help
30. (b) This lesser known heritage building is as beautiful as
him.' This is an example of simple present tense.
16. (d) Sentence 2 - up to a Principal's cabin the Red Fort.
This is an example of spotting the error in a given In the sentence given, the preposition ‘so’ is used
sentence. The sentence should be correctly written as- incorrectly in the context of the sentence and is
"Ravi walked up to the Principal's cabin but could not grammatically wrong. Since a comparison is being made,
meet him." ‘as’ will be used here.
17. (a) The improved sentence would be read as- "Naira 31. (b) This is an example of spotting an error. In the sentence
promised to show me how to fish for salmon, but he here, it can be corrected as:
never had the time." Since the sentence is an example of “It was the home minister of the country who took the
past tense, the word 'promise' will change to 'promised'. decision to change the laws pertaining to migration of
Also, 'me' is used twice, therefore, the first time that it is people from one state to another.”
used is redundant in the sentence. 32. (d) This is an example of spotting the error. The correct
18. (c) This is an example of error spotting. The error lies in the sentence would be read as- “The committee requested
third part of the sentence. The improved sentence would the Chief Investigator to personally look into the
read as- "Nothing hinders the cat from reaching its matter.”
master whenever it listens to his voice."
19. (c) This is an example of error spotting. The error lies in the 33. (d) The improved sentence would be- “The film received
first part of the sentence. The improved sentence would critical acclaim for being an innovative movie of the
read as- "You can accuse me of being lazy, but I will not year.”
finish the project right away." 34. (d) The error lies in the phrase ‘swayed dainty’. While
20. (d) This is an example of error spotting. Since the time span ‘swayed’ is a verb and ‘dainty’ is an adjective, using
is provided in the sentence, and an examination was them together in this way is incorrect. ‘Dainty’ should
cleared, hence the sentence is in past tense. The be used as an adverb to describe how they swayed, not
improved sentence would be read as- "Jaya took classes as an adjective modifying the verb itself. The correct
for two months to pass the National Eligibility Test." way to right the sentence is ‘The dancers swayed
21. (b) This is an example of error spotting. Since the sentence daintily on the stage last night’.
starts in present continuous tense, it will end in the 35. (c) The latter part of the sentence employs past tense.
same tense. The improved sentence would be- "Stella Contextually, the tense in the first clause of the sentence
usually manages the waste materials and disposes them should be changed to past tense.
meticulously." 36. (a) The segment that contains a grammatical error is ‘away
22. (d) The sentence when formed in a grammatically correct at end of April’. The article ‘the’ is missing here. The
way will be – “All these things happen because she correct phrase is ‘away at the end of April’.
does not pay heed to my words.” This is an example of 37. (b) The error lies in the verb form. The word “participate” is
subject-verb agreement wherein the subject and verb in the base form, but in this context, it requires the past
should both be either plural or singular. In this sentence, participle form “participated” to convey the future perfect
the subject and verb are in disagreement, hence it is tense correctly. The future perfect tense indicates an
incorrect. action that will be completed before a certain point in the
23. (d) Since the sentence begins in past tense, the word future, which in this case is the time her father returns.
‘allowed’ should be used in the sentence here. This is Therefore, the correct structure is “will have participated”
an example of ‘spotting the error’. to indicate that she will complete participating in the dance
24. (a) In the sentence, the preposition ‘the’ will be placed competition before her father returns.
before harmonium.
38. (b) The error is in last underlined word 'go', here according
25. (a) The boy told his mother that he saw the tallest giraffe at
to rules; IInd form of verb must be used.
the zoo.
In the above sentence, ‘most tall giraffe’ is grammatically 39. (c) Correct sentence: We should sort (or ‘have sorted’) out
wrong in this context. Here the superlative form of the the problems ourselves rather than depending on the
adjective, ‘tall’ i.e., ‘tallest’ will be used. third party.
N-38 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

To make the sentence grammatically correct with modal 13. (b) Note, 'would have' is used in conditionals to talk about
verb ‘should’, we will use simple present tense or present something that did not happen in the past. In the given
perfect tense. context, option (b) is the right answer.
40. (d) The error is in the last part of the sentence. Instead of 14. (b) The sentence is grammatically correct. “I decided to
the preposition ‘of’, ‘off’ will be used. ‘Off’ means to call out to various bookstores in the area to see if any of
put away something. It gives a sense of disassociation. them had the book I needed.” Hence, no substitution is
So, ‘Dan needed help to get the tight coat off him’, is required in this sentence.
the right answer. 15. (c) Pradeep, who is a teacher, also works as a content writer.
The pronoun ‘who’ has been replaced by ‘whom’, thus
Sentence Improvement making the sentence grammatically correct.
1. (a) The dominant tense of the sentence is past tense as 16. (b) ‘Than’ is a conjunction that is used when two things
can be seen in the usage of the word ‘twitched’. are compared. ‘Then’, on the other hand is an adverb
Therefore, instead of ‘becomes’, ‘became’ should be which means ‘next’. In the given sentence, a comparison
used to make the sentence grammatically correct. has been made. Thus, ‘than’ should be used.
2. (c) The verb form is used incorrectly. Instead of ‘bawling’ 17. (a) ‘Lots of kids’ is a plural subject, thus as per subject-
(present participle form), ‘bawl’ (simple present form) verb concord, plural verb will be used with it. Instead of
should be used to ensure grammatical accuracy. Thus, ‘was’, ‘were’ should be used.
option (c) is the correct answer. 18. (d) We use the word ‘usage’ when talking about the
3. (d) The given sentence is grammatically and syntactically customary manner of doing something. Thus, ‘usage’
correct. There is no error in it. is more appropriate than ‘use’ in this case as insecticides,
4. (d) From the first sentence, it can be understood that the pesticides etc. began to be used after Green Revolution.
verb is in Present Simple tense, hence the following 19. (c) A comparison is being made in the sentence; hence
sentence will also follow the same tense. Hence, the comparative degree of the adjective should be used.
underlined sentence will change to ‘looks like’, instead Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.
of present continuous tense.
5. (c) The first part of the sentence is in past tense, hence the One Word Substitution
second half must be in past tense as well. Given the
context of the sentence the action is taking place in 1. (c) The young one of a frog is called tadpole. Kitten, pup
past perfect tense. So, the correct sentence is “He must and antelope are the young ones of cat and dog
have studied well”. respectively. An antelope is an African animal with horns
6. (c) Ideally, the given form of the sentence is not incorrect. and long, thin legs that can run very fast. Thus, option
However, 'Cinema provides a universal entertainment' (c) is the correct option.
is also correct. Thus, option (c) is the most appropriate 2. (c) The words on the list have the following meanings-
answer. • Pedantic- someone who annoys others by correcting
7. (c) The line presents a comparison; therefore the small errors
comparative form 'more' should be used instead of • Pungent- very strong
superlative form 'most'. • Gregarious- liking to be with other people
8. (d) Given the context of the sentence wherein 'I have ever • Venial- not very serious or able to be forgiven
encountered' is used, 'most challenging' is the correct Option (c), ‘gregarious’ has the same meaning contained
option. in the phrase ‘tending to associate with others of one’s
9. (a) The sentence does not present any comparison. Thus, kind’.
comparative degree of adjective will not be used. The 3. (b) One word substitution for giving cause for legal action
correct sentence should be 'Ashoka was not only a is actionable. In legal terms, Actionable means giving
great warrior but also a very wise ruler.' sufficient reason to take legal action.
10. (c) The sentence when formed in a grammatically correct 4. (b) An official who is appointed to resolve a dispute is
way will be – “Professor said that he would be late for called an arbitrator. Moreover, a professional who
the lecture.” This is an example of indirect speech. In
defends one in court of law is an advocate.
direct speech, the statement would be written as-
5. (c) A place where grains are stored is called granary. Other
Professor said, “I will be late for the lecture.”
11. (c) Since the verb ‘playing’ is used in present tense, the words on the list have the following meanings-
sentence when formed in a grammatically correct way · Dormitory- a large bedroom with a number of beds in it,
will be – “Andrew is playing basketball at the college especially in a school, etc.
tournament.” · Apiary- a place where bees are kept
12. (b) Piracy is an act of illegally reproducing or disseminating · Archive- a collection of historical documents or records
material that already has a copyright. Hence, the word providing information about a place, institution, or
‘pirated’ can be substituted here by ‘illegally copied’. group of people.
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-39

6. (c) The ability to communicate effectively and express 15. (c) The words on the list have the following meanings-
clearly in writing and speaking is called articulation. · Lexicography- the study and practice of compiling
The meanings of the rest of the words is as follows- dictionaries and the meanings of words
· incoherence- the state of being expressed in a way that · Demography- the study of human populations, their
is not clear, characteristics, and changes
· rambling- very long and confused
· Calligraphy- the art of beautiful writing
· mumbling- a way of speaking that is quiet and unclear
7. (c) The idiom, 'red-letter day' refers to a special, happy and · Graphology- focuses on analyzing people’s handwriting
important day that one always remembers. In the to infer their personality traits
sentence here, 26th January 1950 is a day to be It follows from the above list that option (c) ‘Calligraphy’
remembered as on this day, the Constitution of India is the correct answer.
came into effect. 16. (b) The words on the list have the following meanings-
8. (d) The correct and appropriate preposition to be used in · Hypocrite- a person who pretends to have virtues, moral
this sentence is 'at'. The sentence would read as- "I or religious beliefs, principles, etc., that they do not
visited my friend at night." actually possess; someone who feigns a false
9. (a) The sentence would now become- "Whatever topic I appearance of virtue or goodness.
discussed with the sage, it seemed that he was
· Stoic- someone who can endure pain or hardship
omniscient." It means to know everything.
without showing their feelings or complaining
10. (b) Since the sentence is ending in past tense, it will begin
the same way as in past tense. It will be improved as- "It · Versatile- having many talents or abilities
was raining when they played the cricket match last · Amateur- someone who is not a professional or expert
night." in a given field
11. (c) An aviary is a large enclosure that confines birds. These So, someone who is indifferent to pain and pleasure is
allow birds a larger living space where they can fly. called stoic.
Therefore, they are also known as ‘flight cages’ 17. (a) The term used for ‘fear of water’ is called ‘hydrophobia’.
sometimes. Other words on the list have the following meaning-
12. (b) The ability to obtain adequate sleep is a condition · Bibliophobia- intense fear of books or reading
termed as insomnia. It is a common sleep disorder which · Microphobia- an intense fear of small things, such as
may happen even if one has the time and right germs and insects
environment to sleep well. · Botanophobia- an intense fear of plants
The remaining words with their meanings are given 18. (a) The people who have no means of livelihood left are
below:
called pauper or poor.
Pyromania: an impulse control disorder in which
19. (c) A person engaged in or trained for spaceflight is called
individuals repeatedly fail to resist impulses to
astronaut. Other words on the list have following
deliberately start fires, to relieve some tension or for
instant gratification. meanings-
Andromania: a kind of human sexual behaviour and Astute- very clever
desire towards males in females Astronomer- a person who studies astronomy
Mythomania: an abnormal or pathological tendency to Atrocious- extremely bad or unpleasant
exaggerate or tell lies 20. (a) It is the word ‘efficient’ which means ‘working or
13. (a) A fatalist is someone who feels that no matter what he/ operating quickly and effectively in an organised way’.
she does, the outcome will be the same because it’s 21. (c) Genocide: Killing a large number of people
predetermined. Homicide: the illegal killing of one person by another;
The meanings of the other words are as follows: murder
Flirt: to behave in a way that suggests you find Suicide: the act of killing oneself
somebody attractive though you are not serious about Feticide: Destruction or abortion of a foetus.
a relationship
22. (d) An Assassin is a person who kills somebody, especially
Superstitious: a person believing in things that are not
for political reasons. A criminal is person who conducts
real or possible, for example, magic
Fatal: causing or ending in death crimes
14. (a) A notice of the death of a person, often with a A Monster is a creature that is large, ugly and
biographical sketch, as in a newspaper is called Obituary. frightening
Other words on the list have the following meanings- A hangman is a person whose job is to kill criminals as
· Oblivion- he state of being completely forgotten by the a form of punishment by hanging them with a rope
public 23. (a) Photographers who follow celebrities to get their
· Elegy- a poem or song that expresses sadness, pictures to sell them are termed as Paparazzi.
especially for somebody who has died 24. (a) A person who prefers their own company and is reserved
· Advertisement- a form of public communication that and shy is called an introvert.
promotes a product, service, brand, or event
N-40 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

Spelling Test 19. (c) All words are correctly spelt in option (c). In option (a)
and (d), ‘grandeur’ is misspelt and in option (b) both
1. (d) Note that except option (d), there is a spelling error in all ‘grandeur’ and ‘monuments’ are misspelt.
the other sentences. Following is the error and its 20. (c) Option (c) is incorrectly spelt. The correct spelling of
correction- the word is ‘Guarantee’.
a) saffety- safety
b) valvve-valve Parajumbles
c) protast- protest
2. (a) The word on the list which is incorrectly spelt is option 1. (b) Reading the sentences carefully, we understand that
(a). The correct spelling of the word is ‘TIGHT’. the main topic of the passage revolves around the
definition of gentleman. So, statement A is the first line
3. (d) Millennium is the correct spelling.
of the passage, according to syntax, Pronoun driven
4. (a) The incorrectly spelt word is accomodate, the correct sentence must be the second sentence of the passage,
spelling is “accommodate”. statement B is the second statement. Sentence C must
5. (a) The correct spelling of the underlined word is be the third sentence contextually, which makes
'vacillates', meaning 'to keep changing ideas and sentence D as the last sentence to the correct jumbled
opinions in a way that it becomes annoying'. passage.
6. (d) The correct spelling is embarrass. It means to make 2. (d) 1. “Do you still remember me?” I asked , followed by /B
somebody feel uncomfortable or shy. as the speaker would usually complete the whole
7. (d) The doctor prescribed some medicine to alleviate my sentence according the given context. “I am Mrs. S’s
persistent cough, which has been bothering me for days. daughter”.The woman looked at me searchingly, the
In the first three sentences, the words prescribed, sentence D marks the response to the sentence of the
alleviate, persistent and bothering have been mis-spelt. speaker hence it is the third sentence. She opened the
Only sentence 4 has no spelling errors. door a little; I came closer and stood on the step.
8. (d) The correct spelling is ‘sergeant’. It is a rank in use by 3. (a) The given passage deals with the Son of an accountant,
the armed forces of many countries. who loved to study. The correct order of the sentences
9. (c) The correct spelling of the word is LIASION, meaning are B, as the son was a rare breed, the following sentence
'a person who initiates and maintains a contact or a will explain why the son was rare as he went to Bangalore
connection'. to study as he loved studying. The correct order is
10. (c) The correct spelling is Superintendent. He/she is a BDAC
police officer with a high post. 4. (a) The correct order of the sentence is : The ashrams were
11. (a) The novel, with its intricate plot and multifaceted used as the centres of knowledge and learning.
characters, captivated readers and left them pondering 5. (c) In the following jumbled up sentence, one must find the
its deeper themes long after they finished reading. subject first for the formation of the sentence, then read
the words and try to find the Noun. In this sentence a
The remaining sentences have spelling errors in each
verb is not involved. However, there is the use of
of them.
adjective.
12. (d) From the given list of words, option (d) is spelt
The plot – subject, Much Ado About - Noun
incorrectly. The correct spelling of the word is
The correct sentence is : The plot of much ado about
ASSASSINATE, meaning ‘to murder a famous or an
nothing is an elaborate network of schemes and tricks.
important person’.
6. (c) The correct arrangement of words to create a meaningful
13. (b) From the four underlined words, option (d) is spelt sentence is as follows- 'The students eagerly awaited
incorrectly. The correct spelling of the word is their results.'
BLATANT, meaning ‘obvious, conspicuous, or 7. (b) The correct sequence starts with sentence A which
obtrusive, especially in a crass or offensive manner’. begins by talking about the main function of the United
14. (c) All the words on the list except option (c) are spelt Nations. The rest of the sentences, B, C and D also
correctly. Its correct spelling is AGGREGATE, meaning delineate its basic functions. This is an example of
‘to collect or gather into a mass or whole’. sentence jumble. Since the sentences were already in a
15. (d) There is a spelling error in the first part of the sentence. correct sequence, hence the sequence will be ABCD.
The correct word to be used in the given context is 8. (c) The correct sequence of the jumbled sentences is as
‘diary’ and not ‘dairy’. Thus, option (d) is the correct follows:
response. A digital realm is created through metaverse technology.
16. (c) The correct spelling of the word is COMPARISON. This digital universe is not restricted to technology
17. (d) Docil is the mis-spelt word. gadgets such as searching for information on the
The correct spelling is Docile. internet. You may not only glance at things in this, but
18. (a) egalitaerian is the mis-spelt word, the correct spelling you can also feel and mark your presence in augmented
is; Egalitarian: (Adj.) (used about a person, system, reality. The human presence will be marked by the
society, etc.) following the principle that everyone existence of avatars, which will be free to interact with
should have equal rights one another in 3-D virtual spaces.
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-41

9. (d) 17. (d) The sentences should be put in a meaningful order. The
A. One common mistake that many people have made is first sentence should be like an introductory statement.
this; they have thought that is would be a very good Statement D provides the introduction here. Before
thing if everybody had exactly the same amount of introducing a pronoun, the noun for which the pronoun
money, no matter whether they worked hard or lived is used should be made clear. Hence, Statement C comes
quite idly. before Statement A and B. The pronoun ‘She’ in
D. They forget that very few people would work at all if it Statements A and B replaces ‘Polly’ in Statement C.
were not for the money their work brings them, and that Statement B is a comment based on Statement A, thus it
without work there would be no money. comes after A. The correct sequence is D-C-A-B.
C. And they have imagined that if all the money in the 18. (c) Statement C sets the context and Statement A further
country were equally divided everybody would be rich. talks about the ‘eventful day’ mentioned in Statement
B. Now that is a very great mistake, because there simply C. Statement D follows A as it mentions the person’s
is not enough money to make everybody rich. observations while he waits on the steps. Statement B
10. (c) shows that the person is introspecting about the future
C. Jahangir, the emperor of the Mughal Empire, was a and the underlying uncertainties. Thus, the correct
devoted naturalist. sequence is C-A-D-B.
B. His Tuzuk-i-Jahangiri contains a record of his 19. (a) Statement A states the psychological reaction which is
observations (memoirs of Jahangir). explained by Robert B. Cialdini in Statement C. Statement
D. Jahangir is known for his in-depth descriptions of several B further explains Cialdini’s views and is followed by a
animals and birds, including the monkey and the hawk- commentary on it. Thus, the correct order is A-C-B-D.
cuckoo.
20. (c) B-C-D-A sequence has all the events in the correct order.
A. His original contributions to natural science include the
It begins with mentioning about Raman’s accident
accurate assessment of the elephant gestation period
followed by the events at the hospital.
and the disclosure of the Sarus Crane pairing
information. 21. (c) Here, Statement A is the introductory statement on global
11. (d) A meaningful sentence can be formed if the phrases are warming. Statement C comes next because it states the
put in D-C-B-A order. The complete sentence therefore reason behind global warming. Statement C provides
is 'My heart skipped a beat when suddenly a carcass of additional information related to global warming and
an animal fell in front of me.' Statement B substantiates that information. Thus, the
12. (c) To make a coherent and meaningful paragraph, the right sequence is A-C-D-B.
sentences should be put in the following order: 22. (b) Statement B sets the context. Sentence D explains why
D-B-A-C the condition of roads is pathetic, thus it comes next.
13. (c) The phrases when put in the order C-A-D-B make a Statement C states what happens due to narrow roads.
coherent sentence. Thus, option (c) is the right option. Statement A is the consequence of Statement C, so it
14. (c) In order to form a coherent and meaningful sentence, comes after it. The correct sequence is B-D-C-A.
the phrases should be put in B-C-A-D order.
Idioms/Phrases
15. (d) In today's fast-moving world, many young professionals
are vulnerable to stress. Stress could emanate out of 1. (d) The idiom ‘a blind spot’ refers to ‘an area in one’s range
various situations such as lifestyle, health or relationship of vision which one cannot see properly’. Thus, option
issues, lack of support system at home and competitive (d) is the right answer.
focus on acquiring material symbols of success and 2. (a) The idiom ‘gets down to brass tacks’ means ‘to become
career advancement. Due to tight deadlines for delivery serious about something’. Thus, option (a) is the right
and increased focus on performance outcomes, many answer.
employees are unable to enjoy a proper work life. To 3. (c) Keeping Posted means keep sharing the latest
add to this, the current economy has impacted many information or updates. The correct idiom for keeping a
companies' revenues and profits which, in effect, have secret would be sealed lips
put many jobs at risk resulting in the frequency of 4. (a) Bad blood is an idiom which means enmity or ill feeling.
counselling support and guidance goin g up The synonyms of Bad Blood are hostility, anger,
significantly offence, resentment etc.
16. (c) Titanic is an American romantic adventure film released 5. (a) The meanings of all the idioms on the list are as follows-
in 1997. It centres on the sinking of the RMS Titanic. a. Bury the hatchet- end a quarrel and become friendly
Most of the film's story is then told in flashbacks as the again
protagonist recounts the Titanic's fateful 1912 voyage. b. Bark up the wrong tree- to pursue the wrong course of
The film proved immensely popular, holding the all-time action or to make the wrong choice
box-office gross record for more than a decade after its c. Blow off steam- to express strong feelings or release
release. pent-up emotions
N-42 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

d. Burn the midnight oil- read or work late into the night The idiom, ‘call the shots’ refers to being in the position
As per the given context wherein the two politicians where one is able to make the decisions that would
ignore the differences between them to work together influence a situation.
for greater good, option (a) is the most suitable answer. 16. (d) The idiom, ‘if you play with fire, you’ll get burned’ refers
6. (b) The idiom 'bite the bullet' means to endure a painful or to a warning that dangerous or risky actions often lead
difficult situation with courage and resilience. It implies to pain and injury. In this sentence, the subject (Rajat) is
facing a challenging or unpleasant circumstance head- indulging in a risky action, i.e. irritating the street dog,
on, often with a sense of determination and fortitude. leading to trouble, i.e. the possibility of being bitten by it.
The meaning of the phrase best fits in the context of 17. (c) It exactly refers to words that are written or said about a
option (b) 'Despite the pain, Sarah decided to go ahead dead person, especially words written on a stone where
with the surgery.' he/she is buried.
7. (d) The meanings of the phrasal verbs on the list are as The remaining words with their meanings are given
follows- below:
· hold on- To persevere or endure Epigram: a short poem or phrase that expresses an idea
· hold to- to adhere to or maintain in a clever or amusing way
· hold against- To have a negative opinion or judgment Tombstone: a large flat stone that lies on or stands at
about someone or something one end of a grave and shows the name, dates, etc. of
· hold onto- To keep or retain the dead person
Given the context of the sentence and the meanings of Calligraphy: the art of writing beautifully with a special
the phrasal verbs, 'hold onto' fits in appropriately. Thus,
pen or brush
option (d) is the right answer.
18. (d) Two heads are better than one.
8. (b) The most appropriate idiom to substitute the phrase,
It refers to having the advice or opinion of a second
'undecided for a long time' is 'sitting on the fence'. The
meaning of 'sitting on the fence' is to avoid making a person.
decision or choice. 19. (c) After accidently breaking the valuable vase, Sarah found
9. (b) The sentence would read as- "I don't feel like hanging herself in trouble with her parents.
out today. I am feeling a bit under the weather." The The idiom, ‘in hot water’ refers to ‘being in or getting
meaning of the idiom, 'under the weather' is to feel slightly into a difficult situation in which one feels the danger of
ill. The other phrases with their meanings are given being criticized or punished’. Though the sentence did
below: not use the idiom in its formation, but its meaning is
Over the moon: to be pleased about something similar to what the above sentence means.
10. (d) The idiom, 'a shot in the arm' means something that has 20. (a) The idiom ‘bends over backwards’ means ‘to go to great
a sudden and positive effect on something, providing lengths or put in a lot of effort to do something’. The
encouragement and new activity. Therefore, 'a boost or option that comes closest in meaning to the given
stimulant' is the most appropriate meaning for the idiom meaning is ‘working hard to try to impress’.
used in the sentence. 21. (b) That two people have the same interests can be
Near the horizon: coming in the near future idiomatically put as ‘birds of the same feather’. Thus,
11. (b) The idiom, 'a black sheep' refers to a person who has option (b) is the right answer.
done something bad that brings embarrassment or shame 22. (c) The idiom ‘to get off on the wrong foot’ means ‘to start
to his or her family. something on a bad note’. Thus, option (c) is the right
The sentence would read as- "They don't talk to him answer.
anymore as he brought disgrace to the family by robbing 23. (c) The given phrasal verbs have the following meanings-
the bank. They have ousted him and consider him an · gets on: it emphasizes progress or success
insult to the family name. He is a black sheep. · gets after: to be persistent or demanding
12. (d) The idiom, 'to be in hot water' means to be in or get into · gets about: to travel to different places or go to various
a difficult situation in which you are in danger of being events
criticized or punished. This idiom can be explained using
· gets along: to have good relationships with others
a sentence, "Harry had to work overtime to bring all his
From the above list of meanings, option (c) ‘gets about’
accounts up to date before he got into hot water with
is the correct choice for the given context.
his boss."
24. (b) The idiom ‘the best of both worlds’ signifies getting the
13. (a) The idiom, ‘sell like hot cakes’ means ‘be sold quickly
advantages of two different options without any of their
and in large quantities’. For example, the tickets are
drawbacks. ‘An ideal situation’, comes closest to the
selling like hot cakes.
14. (c) The idiom, ‘let sleeping dogs lie’ is a phrase that warns stated meaning.
someone not to talk about a bad situation that most 25. (c) The idiom to ‘burn the midnight oil’ means ‘to work
people have forgotten. until late at night’.
15. (b) To be in a position to make decisions that influences a 26. (a) If someone is on the breadline, it means that they are
situation. very poor. Thus, option (a) is the correct response.
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-43

27. (d) The meaning of the idiom ‘left out in the cold’ is used According to the rule, the correct sentence is : My son
when a person is ignored by others rather than being said, “What an attractive site it is”
invited to take part in some activity with them. Thus, 6. (a) In passive voice, the subject of the sentence receives
option (d) is the right answer. the action rather than performing it. The basic grammar
28. (b) ‘To dodge a bullet’ means to be narrowly saved from rule for constructing a passive voice sentence is as
danger. follows:
29. (b) The idiom ‘an arm and a leg’ means ‘very expensive’. Passive Voice Construction:
Thus, the option on the list that has the same meaning Su bj ec t ( R ec ei v er o f t h e a c t i o n ) + A u x i l i a r y
is ‘a large amount of money’. verb (usually ”be”) + Past participle of the main verb+
30. (d) The idiom ‘a leopard can’t change its spots’ conveys (optional) Agent (doer of the action)
the meaning that one cannot change one’s intrinsic The correct sentence is: The parcel will be dispatched
nature.
soon to Chennai by the seller.
31. (b) put ice on it: to postpone something, to preserve
something until you need it. 7. (a) In case of imperative sentences, rules to convert active
Called it a day: to decide to stop doing something. voice into passive voice are as follows- Begin the
sentence with “Let”, use the object as the subject,
Ran around in circles: to keep doing or talking about
employ the past participle, include ‘be’ if needed and
the same thing without achieving anything
add 'by' followed by the agent. In accordance with the
Gave it a whirl : give something a try.
above rules, option (a) 'let the access be denied' is the
32. (b) The correct idiom for the underlined statement is : correct answer.
an ace up his sleeve : a plan or piece of information kept 8. (a) To convert passive voice into active voice, firstly
secret until it becomes necessary to use it identify the subject, verb and object and then move the
33. (c) The idiom ‘to run around in circles’ means to do one doer of the action to the subject position. Thereafter,
thing over and over again, without achieving effective choose the appropriate active voice verb and adjust
results. Thus, option (c) is the right answer. the object if necessary. As per these rules, the correct
34. (b) ‘Catch 22’ refers to a difficult situation from which there active voice for 'The award was presented to her by the
is no escape. Option (b) is the correct response. director' is ‘The director presented the award to her’.
9. (a) To convert passive voice into active voice, following
Speeches/Voices steps are used- identify the subject, verb, and object,
move the object to the subject position, use the
1. (b) In direct speech, usually said is used and not say, so we appropriate passive verb and include the doer if needed.
can easily eliminate options a and d, now on checking As per these rules, the correct active voice of 'By whom
the latter part of the speech we understand that had has
were you taught English grammar and composition?' is
been used so the correct answer is (b) : Madhav said,
'Who taught you English grammar and composition?'
“Bravo! You have done well”.
10. (d) The correct form of the direct speech is mentioned in
2. (d) When a sentence is converted from active voice to
passive voice the subject and object exchange places option (d). The verb, pronoun and punctuation have
and third form verb is used. The correct expression is: been appropriately used therein.
“The flowers were being plucked by Simran”. 11. (b) In order to change speech, we need to change pronouns,
3. (c) In Indirect Speech, the first person pronoun is changed verb tenses, reporting verb, time and place expressions
based on the subject of reporting speech. The second and remove quotation marks. The correct conversion
person pronoun is changed based on the object of for the given sentence is- He said that two and two
reporting speech and the third person pronoun remains make four.
unchanged in indirect speech. The correct sentence is : 12. (c) While converting direct speech into indirect, simple past
“The lawyer told the father of the accused that there tense changes to past perfect (had+ past participle).
was a rumour that he had some connection in that Thus, from the given list of options, option (c) is the
crime”. correct response.
4. (c) To convert active to passive voice: Interchange the 13. (d) The postmaster told her that she could purchase only
object and subject with each other, i.e. object of the two stamps at a time.
active sentence become the subject of the passive Indirect speech is a way of reporting something that
sentence. was said or written rather than the exact words which
The correct sentence would be: A soft toy was gifted to were said or written. In this sentence, the postmaster is
my daughter by me. telling the girl/lady that she can purchase only two
5. (b) In order to change a speech to direct speech, the stamps at one time.
following rule is applied. 14. (a) This is said to be the oldest temple in the region.
Convert pronouns, verb forms, and time expressions; The sentence in active voice will be- 'This is said to be
replace reporting verbs; use quotation marks; and adjust
the oldest temple in the region.'
punctuation.
N-44 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

15. (a) She said that she was going to the library to return the 27. (b) Direct speech is a word-to-word repetition of what the
book. speaker or writer has conveyed. The spoken words are
Indirect speech is a way of reporting something that always placed within inverted commas.
was said or written rather than the exact words which 28. (b) Minal said, "We are boarding the train now."
were said or written. In the sentence, a clause is reported Direct speech is a word-to-word repetition of what the
using 'that'. speaker or writer has conveyed. The spoken words are
16. (a) Ramesh told his friend that they must be vigilant as always placed within inverted commas. In this sentence,
their teacher never accepted the assignment if any one when written in direct speech, the word 'now' will be
of them was late in submission. used, whereas, in indirect speech, the word 'then' will
Indirect speech is a way of reporting something that be used.
was said or written rather than the exact words which 29. (c) Indirect speech is a way of reporting something that
were said or written. was said or written rather than the exact words which
17. (d) Active voice is a form of a verb in which the subject is were said or written. In the sentence here, the words
typically the person or thing performing the action and spoken by Rahul are written without inverted commas.
which can take a direct object. In this sentence here, the 30. (a) Active voice is a form of verb in which the subject
verb is 'ordering' and the subject is 'pizza'. performs an action and which can take a direct object.
18. (a) Active voice is a form of a verb in which the subject is Here in this sentence, the lady (subject) baked (action)
typically the person or thing performing the action and for the party.
which can take a direct object. In this sentence here, the 31. (b) The correct passive voice of the sentence is- 'The poem
subject (I) performed an action (of buying a laptop). will be recited by the child'. Note that the basic structures
19. (a) New policies are being implemented by the government of sentences written in the two voices are as follows-
to reduce pollution in the city. Active: Subject + Verb + Object
The sentence expressed in passive voice would be as Passive: Object + Verb (past participle) + by + Subject
above. The remaining sentences are examples of active 32. (c) The most explicit indicator of degree of comparison is
voice. 'than'. Thus, it is easy to identify that option (c) is the
20. (b) Vishnu told me that he had been to Hyderabad. correct response.
Indirect speech is a way of reporting something that 33. (c) The basic structure of Active and Passive sentences is
was said or written rather than the exact words which as follows-
were said or written. In the sentence here, the words Active: Subject + Verb + Object
spoken by Vishnu were - "I have been to Hyderabad." Passive: Object + Verb (past participle) + by + Subject
21. (b) Direct speech reports the exact words spoken. When As per the above, option (c) is the correct answer.
direct speech is used in writing, the spoken words are 34. (b) Passive voice is a form of verb in which the subject
placed between quotation marks (" ") with no change in undergoes the action of the verb. In this sentence, he
those words. From indirect speech, the sentence has (subject) is eating (verb) an apple (object).
been changed into direct speech with the exact spoken 35. (d) The tournament was won by the team after weeks of
words inside quotation marks. hard work and commitment.
22. (c) Active voice is a form of verb in which the subject A verb is in the passive voice when the subject of the
performs an action and which can take a direct object. sentence is acted on by the verb. In this sentence, the
Here in this sentence, lion is the subject and monkey is tournament (the subject) receives the action of the verb
the object.
(was won).
23. (c) Reported speech refers to when we tell someone what
36. (d) Indirect speech conveys something that was said or
another person said. In this situation, we can use both
written rather than the exact words that were spoken or
direct and indirect speech. Here in this sentence, Shyla
written. In this sentence, ‘what a beautiful house’ as
is telling someone about another lady who is a skilful
said by Rakesh in direct speech has been transformed
tailor.
into indirect speech.
24. (a) Passive voice is a form of a verb in which the subject 37. (b) The captain commanded his soldiers to follow the enemy.
undergoes the action of the verb. Here in this sentence, Reported speech is when we tell someone what someone
the subject is the building and verb is that it is being else said.
constructed. 38. (a) The task could have been completed by the rescue team
25. (c) Active voice is a form of verb in which the subject if there had been uninterrupted power supply.
performs an action and which can take a direct object. Passive voice is a form of verb in which the subject
Here in this sentence, she is the subject who has undergoes the action of the verb. In this sentence,
performed an action, i.e., opening a window. rescue team (subject) completed the task (verb) with
26. (d) Active voice is a form of verb in which the subject the help of uninterrupted supply of power (object).
performs an action and which can take a direct object.
39. (b) Will Jack deliver the sweets today? is the correct way
Here in this sentence, the chef is the subject who is
to ask everyone 'if the sweets will be delivered by jack
performing an action, i.e., preparing a delicious meal.
today ' in active voice.
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-45

40. (d) 'Has she not cooked the custard?' is correct active voice. Reading Comprehension
Active Voice: Subject + Is/Are/Am/Was/Were/Has/
Have/Had + To + Verb (Ist form) + Object 1. (d) The last line of the first paragraph of the passage
41. (c) The core meaning of the sentence should not change explains the main theme of the given passage. China’s
when converting it from active to passive voice or vice- declining population is the main theme of the passage.
versa. To convert a sentence from active to passive 2. (d) The second line of the passage defines the estimated
form, we have to first identify the subject, verb and world population by the middle of this year to be 8.045
object in the sentence and interchange the position of billion.
the subject and the object. The root form of the verb 3. (d) One can infer the passage to understand that both the
changes into the past participle form and appropriate statements are true; from first and last paragraph
respectively.
changes are made to the pronouns. The passive form
4. (a) In the context of the passage the word flagging meant
should also have a suitable helping verb and the
waning or contracting. Under no condition did the word
preposition ‘by’ in it. Option (c) adheres to all the rules.
would mean ascending.
42. (b) The central meaning of the sentence should not change 5. (b) After inferring the passage, one can mark the sequence
when converting from passive to active voice or vice- of the sentences in the correct order : CADBE
versa. The conversion is made by inter-changing the King Sagara performed ashwamedha yagnaà His sons
positions of the object and subject in the sentence. The were burnt alive à the souls of the dead sons will not
verb is found in its root form in active voice and the get salvation until ganga flows through their ashes à
helping verb and the preposition ‘by’ are not used. The the flow has to be restrained by Shiva by holding it in
pronouns are changed in accordance with the voice. his locks.
Option (2) follows all the rules. 6. (d) The iven passage is an excerpt of a mythological story.
43. (a) The core meaning of the sentence should not change This simply means that it lacks factual basis or historical
when converting it from active to passive voice or vice- validity: mythical, fabulous. mythological.
versa. To convert a sentence from active to passive 7. (c) One can read the story and infer that the story is about
form, we have to first identify the subject, verb and the coming of Ganga to the earth.
object in the sentence and interchange the position of 8. (a) In the following context the word austere means severe.
the subject and the object. The root form of the verb As an adjective, the term means severe in manner or
changes into the past participle form and appropriate appearance; uncompromising; strict; forbidding.
changes are made to the pronouns. The passive form 9. (d) It is clearly mentioned in the passage that 'Grapes ripen
should also have a suitable helping verb and the in the area of California in August'. Thus, option (d) is
preposition ‘by’ in it. Option (a) follows all rules of the correct response.
conversion. 10. (b) The synonym of the word 'luscious' is 'juicy'. Option (b)
is the right answer.
44. (b) In direct speech, quotation marks are removed. Option 11. (c) It is clearly mentioned in the passage that 'the
(b) correctly states that the man is calling out to heaven fermentation process turns grapes into wine' Thus,
for help and he resolves not to repeat his mistake. Note option (c) is the right answer.
that the first person pronouns change into third person 12. (a) As per the details in the passage, the most appropriate
pronouns and ‘shall’ changes to ‘would’ in reported title is 'Grapes and its uses'.
speech. 13. (b) The passage clearly mentions that 'Almost everything
45. (c) To change the given sentence from indirect speech to we use is either made of iron or steel or has been made
direct speech, we need to add the quotation marks with tools and machinery of these metals'. Therefore,
(double inverted commas) and frame a dialogue. The steel is regarded as the backbone of modern industry.
connector ‘that’ is removed; pronouns are changed; 14. (c) The given passage has an informative tone. It talks
the position of subject-verb interchange and about steel, its nature and uses.
punctuation marks like question mark or exclamation 15. (a) The passage is written in descriptive form. It provides
are introduced. Here, option (c) is the correct response. details about steel industry by describing various uses
46. (d) Reported or indirect speech does not have commas and of the beneficial alloy.
quotation marks. Punctuation marks such as question 16. (c) Since the passage discusses about steel in general, the
mark and exclamation mark are also removed in reported best title for it is 'Steel Industry'.
speech. However, their meaning is retained by modifying 17. (c) The first line of the passage explicitly mentions that
the verb that follows the subject. In this case, we remove 'The discovery of a new bird species has sparked
excitement among ornithologists and bird enthusiasts
the question mark and use the word ‘asked’. Also, note
worldwide'. Thus, option (c) directly follows from the
that the present continuous changes into past
passage.
continuous tense and helping verb is used after the
18. (c) It is mentioned in the passage as a fact that the
subject in indirect speech. Option (d) is the correct
researchers use satellite tracking devices 'to trace the
response. remarkable journey of this species across vast distances'.
N-46 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

Other options do not factually correspond with the 28. (d) The word 'most' will fit in the sentence appropriately.
passage. Thus, option (c) is the correct response. The sentence would be read as- "This is the most
19. (b) Based on the information given in the passage, the most comprehensive computer series,…"
suitable title for the passage is 'The Migratory Journey 29. (a) The pronoun, 'which' will fit here in this sentence. It is
of the Sapphire-winged Warbler'. used when referring to something previously mentioned
20. (c) Note that the word 'stare' means to look at somebody or when introducing a clause giving further information.
something for a long time because you are surprised, The sentence would be read as- "which is free from rote
shocked, etc. learning."
The words on the list have the following meanings- 30. (c) The word, 'concept' will be an appropriate fit in this
· Vibrancy- the state of being full of energy and life sentence. It would be read as- "While designing this
· Excitement- a feeling or situation full of activity, joy, series, a lot of effort has been put in to give each
exhilaration, or upheaval. concept a practical shape."
· Glimpse- a very quick and not complete view of 31. (a) The word, 'ways' will complete the sentence. It would
somebody/something be read as- "Exploitation in the marketplace happens in
· Arduousness- the quality of being difficult and so various ways."
needing a lot of effort and energy to do 32. (c) The word, 'unfair' will fit appropriately in the sentence
It follows from above that the opposite of the word here. It would be read as- "For example, sometimes
'stare' is 'glimpse'. traders indulge in unfair trade practices such as when
21. (c) The word, 'action' is the most appropriate word to fit in shopkeepers weigh less than what they should…"
the blank. The sentence would be read as- "Climate 33. (a) The word, 'adulterated' will fill the blank to complete the
change is a pressing global issue that demands sentence. It would be read as- "…or when adulterated
immediate action." The remaining words are goods are sold."
inappropriate for the sentence. 34. (c) The word, 'scattered' would fit appropriately in the blank
22. (c) The word, 'profound' is the most appropriate word to fit in this sentence. It would be read as- "Markets do not
in the blank. The sentence would be read as- "The Earth's work in a fair manner when producers are few and
climate is undergoing profound changes primarily due powerful whereas consumers purchase in small amounts
to human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and and are scattered."
deforestation." The meaning of 'profound' is very great.
35. (b) The word, 'manipulate' will complete the blank in this
The remaining words, simple, honest and hard will be
sentence. It would be read as- "This happens especially
inappropriate to fit in the sentence here.
when large companies are producing these goods. These
23. (c) The words, 'far-reaching' will appropriately fit in the
companies with huge wealth, power and reach can
blank. The sentence would be read as- "The
manipulate the market in various ways."
consequences of climate change are far-reaching and
include rising global temperatures, extreme weather 36. (b) The word, 'place' will be added to complete the sentence.
events, and biodiversity loss." Far-reaching means It would be read as- "A stone that is constantly rolling
having a great influence on a lot of other things. The cannot gather moss, while a stone that remains lying in
remaining words, short-sighted, clean and inadequate one place will gather it after a time."
will be inappropriate to fit in the sentence here. 37. (d) The word, 'changing' will complete the sentence. It
24. (a) The word, 'solutions' will appropriately fit in the blank. would be read as- "In the same way, a man who is a
The sentence would be read as- "To mitigate these rolling stone, who is constantly changing his
effects, it is crucial to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, occupations and pursuits…"
promote renewable energy sources, an d adopt 38. (d) The sentence would be read as- "…and does not settle
sustainable solutions." The word refers to 'a way of down long for any particular work…"
solving a problem'. 39. (b) The sentence would complete as- "…achieves little or
25. (b) The word, 'efforts' will fit in the blank in this sentence. It no success in life."
would be read as- "Additionally, raising awareness and 40. (c) The sentence would complete as- "As the proverb says,
educating the public about the importance of 'He who hunts two hares, loses both'."
conservation and environmentally friendly practices are 41. (d) By working with governments and local communities
essential. Cooperation and international efforts are to develop strategies for their preservation.
needed to address climate change collectively."
In the third paragraph of the passage, it says, "For this
26. (b) The most appropriate option that will fit in this blank is
reason, UNESCO works with governments and local
'experience'. The sentence would be read as- "KIPS,
communities around the world to develop strategies for
with its vast experience in School Education,…"
protecting and preserving these important landmarks."
27. (a) The most appropriate option that will fit in the blank is
'has designed'. It will be used in past tense as the activity 42. (d) The antonym for 'unparalleled' will be 'frequent'. The
has been completed. The sentence would be read as- word, unparalleled means bigger, better or outstanding.
"…has designed the computer Series- Cyber Beans." While 'frequent' means something that happens often.
SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023) N-47

43. (c) The structure of the passage is defined as delineating a 55. (a) The farmhouse, Wuthering Heights was an intriguing
problem and chalking out a solution for the same. one that entranced Mr. Lockwood as soon as he saw it.
44. (a) In the third paragraph, it says, "Many sites are under The word in the sentence, 'entranced' means to fill
threat from a variety of factors, including climate change, (someone) with wonder and delight, holding their entire
natural disasters and human activities such as tourism attention.
and development. For this reason, UNESCO works with Sol. (56-60)
governments and local communities around the world 56. (a) 57. (d) 58. (d) 59. (c) 60. (a)
to develop strategies for protecting and preserving these 61. (a) Conduct disorder is a mental condition rather than teen
important landmarks." defiance.
45. (c) The last paragraph defines the title, "World Heritage It is clear from these lines in the passage, “The findings
Sites are of great importance to humanity, and their of the study were unexpected. They demonstrated
preservation is crucial for maintaining our cultural and distinct disparities between adolescents whose
natural heritage. The recognition of these sites by behavioural issues began in adolescence and those
UNESCO is an important step towards their protection whose issues began earlier in life.”
and preservation for future generations."
62. (c) Distinct regions of the cortex were thicker in the
46. (c) The main theme of the passage is strong will. A person teenagers having early onset behavioural issues in
having strong will can achieve anything in life. comparison to the healthy participants.
47. (d) The most appropriate antonym for 'undaunted' is The last paragraph of the passage says. “The findings
cowardly. The word, undaunted refers to having of the study were unexpected. They demonstrated
enthusiasm and determination despite difficulties, distinct disparities between adolescents whose
dangers and disappointments. While the antonym, behavioural issues began in adolescence and those
'cowardly' refers to a person who is not at all brave and
whose issues began earlier in life. Although both groups
too eager to avoid danger, difficulty or pain.
were different from healthy controls, it was discovered
48. (d) The passage has an encouraging tone wherein it talks that distinct regions of the cortex in the teenagers who
about one's will to overcome obstacles and accomplish had experienced early-onset behavioural issues were
goals. thicker in comparison to the healthy participants.”
49. (d) The passage speaks about how one finds the 63. (a) The last line of the first paragraph of the passage does
determination to find solutions to one's problems. not mention ‘attention’ and ‘disobedience’. It is evident
50. (a) Since the passage talks about determination in
from this line, “Awareness, perception, attention,
overcoming problems, the title, 'Where There's A Will,
memory and language are all impacted by the cortex.”
There's A Way' will be suitable.
64. (b) This line defines what was measured in scanned images-
51. (b) By showing extreme emotions of obsession, exacting
“The thickness of various regions of the cortex and the
revenge and inflicting pain on others.
brain’s outer layer was measured using the scanned
This is explained in the given lines from the passage-
images.”
"The novel explores themes of love, revenge, social
class, and the destructive power of unchecked passion." 65. (d) It is defined through this line- “As with judo, taekwondo
52. (a) The most appropriate synonym for conventional is was developed as a sport that is also representative of
'customary'. The word, conventional refers to things a moral code, where principles of loyalty, faithfulness,
that are normal, ordinary and following the accepted respect, and the preservation of an indomitable spirit
way. While, customary means usual, according to form a significant part of taekwondo training.”
custom. Therefore, conventional and customary have 66. (d) The most appropriate synonym for the word
similar meanings, and thus are synonyms. ‘representative’ is ‘typical’. Representative refers to
53. (b) The central theme of the passage revolves around the someone or something typically belonging to a larger
events that take place in the farmhouse, Wuthering group. Whereas, typical means having or showing the
Heights. It is a story of love, betrayal and revenge, usual qualities of a particular person, thing or type.
inflicting suffering upon those who have hurt or done 67. (c) “Taekwondo is a form of empty hand martial arts combat
wrong to others. that requires the athlete to use all parts of the body in
54. (c) The most appropriate antonym for vengeance is competition.”
'forgiveness'. The word, vengeance refers to the act of
punishing or harming somebody in return for something 68. (b) The most appropriate antonym for ‘indomitable’ is
bad he/she has done to someone, their friends or even submissive. Indomitable means an impossibility to
their family. Whereas, forgiveness is an antonym defeat or frighten, even in a difficult situation. While
meaning to take an intentional decision of letting go of submissive means an inclination or readiness to submit
resentment and anger. to the authority of another.
N-48 SSC English Topic-wise Previous Year Solved Paper (2022-2023)

69. (d) The focus of the passage is on the idea of efficiency in last five years but simply uses it as a reference point
and work ethics, thus option (d) can correctly inferred for a comparison.
from the given passage. 81. (b) As is mentioned, maximum increase in area under rice is
70. (c) The most suitable structure for the passage is in states of Telangana and West Bengal.
‘pragmatic’, meaning ‘relating to matters of fact or 82. (c) The passage states that the author had known her
practical affairs’. Since, the passage deals with the grandmother for twenty years. In other words, the
subject of efficiency at workplace, option (c) are the author was twenty years of age when his grandmother
right response. died. Thus option (c) is the correct answer.
71. (c) The word ‘effective’ means ‘the ability of something or
83. (d) The given excerpt is from Khushwant Singh’s short
someone to produce a desired or intended result’. Its
story The Portrait of a Lady in which he presents a
opposite is ‘fruitless’, meaning ‘producing poor or no
verbal portrait of his grandmother. Thus, an appropriate
results’. Thus, option (c) is the right answer.
title for the given passage is ‘My Grandmother’.
72. (c) The most suitable title for the passage will be ‘
Most Effective Colleagues’ as it deals with the idea of 84. (a) The word ‘revolting’ means ‘offensive’ or ‘unattractive’.
effective workers. The opposite of ‘revolting’ is ‘attractive’.
73. (d) The last line of the passage provides a good hint as to 85. (a) It is difficult for the author to believe that his
what the summary of the passage should be. It says, grandmother was ever young or pretty because he has
‘we wanted to find those who were not just influential always seen her as an old woman like every
but who were far more influential than the rest’ grandmother.
suggesting that ‘Some people are more effective and
more influential than others to get things done’. Essential English Grammar
74. (d) It is clearly stated in the passage that: Bhattacharyya 1. (d) The correct way of framing the sentence will be- "All
claimed that the discovery is extremely significant. the guests I have invited to the movie screening have
“Starting from the Lower Palaeolithic to Middle shown unwillingness due to their busy schedules."
Palaeolithic then Upper Palaeolithic, we see the evolution 2. (d) The correct sentence will be - "Don't look at my phone."
here.” 3. (a) The sentence would read as- "The fluffy cat used to
75. (d) It is stated in the passage that ‘Most of the cave make a feeble cry over the others when food was
paintings found were in ochre colour’. supplied by Leepika."
76. (d) Option (d) is incorrect because the cave paintings in 4. (c) The correct way of framing this sentence is- "We are
white belonged to the early contemporary era. discussing about the same matter."
77. (a) It is mentioned in the second paragraph of the passage 5. (a) The improved sentence will be- "She likes street food
that rock art, cave paintings and open-air ceremonial such as golgappe, tikka and chaat."
sites were found in Mangar Bani forest. There is no 6. (b) The improved sentence will be- "Many Cubans in
mention of ‘tools’ here. circumstances similar to mine become American citizens
at the first opportunity."
78. (d) As per the data stated in the passage, the increase in
7. (d) The idiom 'created insult to injury' means ' to make a
the crop area in the year 2022-23 correctly corresponds
bad situation worse'.
to option (d).
8. (c) The term 'extempore' refers to the act of something been
79. (d) The text states that the Government is promoting millet
spoken, done, or written without any prior preparation
production as the year 2023 has been declared as the
or thought.
International Year of Millets by United Nations General
Assembly (UNGA). 9. (a)
10. (c) I have never seen a UFO in an English movie.'
80. (a) The first line of the given passage states the main theme
of the text which is about the increase in the total area Indefinite articles
sown under Rabi crops. Option (b) is incorrect because a : (before a singular noun beginning with a consonant
the passage does not discuss the area under rabi crop sound)
an: (before a singular noun beginning with a vowel sound)
 Chapter
1 Synonyms

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 1-5) : In the following questions, out of the 12. Vindictive
four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the (a) Imaginative (b) Accusative
meaning of the given word. (c) Spiteful (d) Aggressive
13. Inclement
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2010) (a) Selfish (b) Active
1. Luxuriant (c) Unfavourable (d) Inactive
(a) Luxury loving (b) Lovely 14. Genial
(c) Rich (d) Abundant (a) Cordial (b) Unselfish
2. Cantankerous (c) Careful (d) Specific
(a) Cancerous (b) Ferocious 15. Accrue
(c) Quarrelsome (d) Fissiparous (a) Accumulate (b) Accommodate
3. Onus (c) Grow (d) Suffice
(a) Sadness (b) Happiness
(c) Responsibility (d) Criticism DIRECTIONS (Qs. 16-20) : In the following questions, out of the
4. Derision four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the
(a) Humiliation (b) Embarrassment meaning of the given word.
(c) Ridicule (d) Condemnation
5. Trite (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2011)
(a) Commonplace (b) Clever 16. Barren
(c) Brief (d) Impudent (a) Good (b) Wholesome
(c) Unproductive (d) Profitable
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 6–10) : In the following questions, out of the
four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the 17. Infamy
meaning of the given word. (a) Notoriety (b) Glory
(c) Integrity (d) Familiarity
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2010) 18. Intrepid
6. Debacle (a) Hesitant (b) Fearless
(a) Decline (b) Downfall (c) Extrovert (d) Rash
(c) Discomfiture (d) Degeneration 19. Prodigal
7. Ostracise (a) Exclusive (b) Productive
(a) Banish (b) Belittle (c) Lavish (d) Carefree
(c) Beguile (d) Besiege 20. Perspicuous
8. Prophylactic (a) Relevant (b) Precise
(a) Antagonistic (b) Toxic (c) Brief (d) Clear
(c) Preventive (d) Purgative
9. Coddle DIRECTIONS (Qs. 21-25) : In the following questions, out of the
(a) Huddle (b) Satisfy four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the
(c) Protect (d) Cheat meaning of the given word as your answer.
10. Flimsy
(a) Funny (b) Irrational (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012)
(c) Weak (d) Partisan 21. Nexus
(a) Connection (b) Distance
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 11–15) : In the following questions, out of (c) Deficit (d) Difference
the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the 22. Mammoth
meaning of the given word. (a) Straight (b) Huge
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2011) (c) Wild (d) Greedy
11. Loquacious 23. Hyperbole
(a) Talkative (b) Slow (a) Expansion (b) Imitation
(c) Content (d) Unclear (c) Decoration (d) Exaggeration
 2 Synonyms

24. Eulogy 38. Trivial

(a) Apology (b) Address (a) Crucial (b) Significant
(c) Speech (d) Praise (c) Vital (d) Ordinary
25. Menacingly 39. Impudent
(a) Dangerously (b) Threateningly (a) Vigilant (b) Astute
(c) Harmfully (d) Hideously (c) Insolent (d) Arrogant
40. Pompous
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 26-30) : In the following questions, out of the (a) Pretentious (b) Supportive
four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the meaning (c) Demanding (d) Flashy
of the given word.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 41-45) : In the following questions, out of
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012) the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the
26. Annexure meaning of the given word.
(a) Retirement (b) Commencement
(c) Attachment (d) Development (SSC SI 2012)
27. Errand 41. Indiscriminate
(a) Energy (b) Task (a) Undifferentiated (b) Instant
(c) Mistake (d) Blunder (c) Sensible (d) Discreet
28. Bequeath 42. Literal
(a) Give (b) Disclose (a) Verbatim (b) Formal
(c) Scold (d) Surround (c) Idealistic (d) Outdated
29. Nonchalant 43. Intricate
(a) Imaginary (b) Casual (a) Puzzling (b) Illusive
(c) Neutral (d) Formal (c) Complicated (d) Assertive
30. Forbearance 44. Expeditiously
(a) Deliverance (b) Patience (a) Rudely (b) Gently
(c) Extravagance (d) Relevance (c) Meekly (d) Quickly
45. Idiosyncrasies
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 31-35): In the following questions, out of
(a) Demands (b) Needs
the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the
(c) Ideologies (d) Eccentricities
meaning of the given word as your answer.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 46 - 48) : In the following questions, out of
31. Gaol the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the
(a) Destination (b) Garden meaning of the given word.
(c) Jail (d) Bird (SSC CHSL 2012)
32. Loathing 46. Apprise
(a) Warmth (b) Affectation (a) Praise (b) Inform
(c) Hatred (d) Affection (c) Conceal (d) Assess
33. Pragmatic 47. Periodic
(a) Intelligent (b) Wise (a) Infrequent (b) Continuous
(c) Religious (d) Practical (c) Occasional (d) Regular
34. Notion 48. Gruesome
(a) Thought (b) Fact (a) Sullen (b) Hideous
(c) Truth (d) Hypothesis (c) Exhausting (d) Insulting
35. Vivacious DIRECTIONS (Qs. 49-53) : In the following questions, out
(a) Poisonous (b) Energetic of the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses
(c) Tricky (d) Slow the meaning of the given word.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 36 - 40) : In the following questions out of (SSC Sub. Ins. 2013)
the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the 49. Abnormal
meaning of the given word. (a) Unnatural (b) Aggressive
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012) (c) Unique (d) Informal
36. Vociferous 50. Venal
(a) Violent (b) Loud (a) Corrupt (b) Comprehensible
(c) Secret (d) True (c) Legible (d) Forgivable
37. Fictional 51. Conjurer
(a) Genuine (b) Authentic (a) Magician (b) Jester
(c) Fanciful (d) Real (c) Performer (d) Trickster
Synonyms 3

52. Invoice 64. Aberration

(a) Word (b) Sound (a) Justification (b) Intensification
(c) Statement (d) Language (c) Deviation (d) Rationality
53. Ameliorate
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 65-67) : In the following questions, out of
(a) Improve (b) Degrade
the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the
(c) Motivate (d) Agree
meaning of the given word.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 54-55) : In the following questions, out of the (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the 65. Condone
meaning of the given word. (a) Forgive (b) Support
(SSC CHSL 2013) (c) Forget (d) Defend
54. Wily 66. Analogy
(a) Angry (b) Wise (a) Difference (b) Comparison
(c) Stupid (d) Cunning (c) Addition (d) Deletion
55. Temerity 67. Allure
(a) Paucity (b) Verity (a) Extol (b) Excite
(c) Audacity (d) Simplicity (c) Entice (d) Elicit
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 68–70): In the following questions, out of
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 56-58) : In the following questions, out of the
the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the
four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the
meaning of the given .
meaning of the given.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) 68. Parsimony
56. Advocate (a) Expenditure (b) Bankruptcy
(a) Predict (b) Pronounce
(c) Bribery (d) Miserliness
(c) Support (d) Determine
69. Tribulation
57. Preamble
(a) Palpitation (b) Suffering
(a) Definition (b) Mediation
(c) Conclusion (d) Introduction (c) Weakness (d) Stimulation
58. Students are asked to collate for an important programme by 70. The Prime Minister goes on the ramparts of the Red Fort to
the principal. hoist the National Flag.
(a) Assemble (b) Describe (a) Rompway (b) Staircase
(c) Narrate (d) Prescribe (c) Parapet (d) Scaffold
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 71-73) : In the following questions below,
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 59-61) : In the following questions below,
out of the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses out of the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses
the meaning of the given word. the meaning of the given word.

(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2013) (SSC Multitasking 2013)

59. Garrulous 71. Barbaric
(a) Talkative (b) Sedative (a) Thorny (b) Uncivilized
(c) Cocative (d) Positive (c) Premeditated (d) Barber’s
60. Tinsel 72. Hurdle
(a) Tinkle (b) Decoration (a) Suspicion (b) Throw
(c) Tin (d) Colourful (c) Opposition (d) Obstacle
61. Labyrinth 73. Deter
(a) Meandering (b) Rotating (a) To hinder (b) To neglect
(c) Pacing (d) Wriggling (c) To disapprove (d) To differ
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 62-64): In these questions, out of the four DIRECTIONS (Qs. 74-76): In the following questions, out of the
alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the meaning four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the
of the given word. meaning of the given word.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) (SSC Multitasking 2014)
62. Citadel 74. Disgrace
(a) Metropolis (b) Mansion (a) Disrespect (b) Jealousy
(c) Fortress (d) Palace (c) Disregard (d) Shame
63. Stern 75. Striking
(a) Lenient (b) Young (a) Attractive (b) Violent
(c) Stem (d) Strict (c) Funny (d) Hateful
 4 Synonyms

76. Fiasco DIRECTIONS (Qs. 90-92): In the following three questions, out
(a) Festival (b) Failure of the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the
(c) Fortune (d) Feast meaning of the given word.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 77-79): In the following questions, out of the (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015)
four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the 90. Devout
meaning of the given word. (a) Solemn (b) Loyal
(SSC CGL 2014) (c) Dedicated (d) Pious
77. Persist 91. Predilection
(a) Resist (b) Leave (a) Favour (b) Whim
(c) Prejudice (d) Preference
(c) Quit (d) Insist
92. Effigy
78. Eventually
(a) Dummy (b) Imagery
(a) Previously (b) Briefly (c) Reflection (d) Organ
(c) Finally (d) Successfully
79. Impeccable DIRECTIONS (Qs. 93-97) : In the following questions below,
(a) Remarkable (b) Unbelievable out of the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses
(c) Flawless (d) Displeasing the meaning of the given word.

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 80-84) : In the following questions below, (SSC Sub. Ins. 2015)
out of the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses 93. Annihilate
the meaning of the given word. (a) Initiate (b) Destroy
(c) Solve (d) Deduce
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2014)
80. Scorn 94. Quarry
(a) Concise (b) Despise (a) Quest (b) Denounce
(c) Bias (d) Fierce (c) Inlern (d) Quake
81. Catastrophe 95. Interference
(a) Tragedy (b) Anger (a) Honour (b) Deference
(c) Violence (d) Hatred (c) Obstruction (d) Fearful
82. Abjure
96. Verisimilitude
(a) Renounce (b) Announce
(c) Pronounce (d) Denounce (a) Festive (b) Fantastic
83. Assess (c) Grotesque (d) Authenticity
(a) Overload (b) Measure 97. Conjecture
(c) Permit (d) Enter (a) Knowledge (b) Guess
84. Elastic (c) Truth (d) Bias
(a) Free (b) Liberal
(c) Flexible (d) Broad DIRECTONS (Qs. 98-101) : In the following questions below,
out of the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 85-89) : In the following questions below,
the meaning of the given word.
out of the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses
the meaning of the given word. (SSC CHSL 2015)
(SSC CHSL 2014) 98. Pawn
85. Persevere (a) Scrounge (b) Hire
(a) Fickle (b) Persist (c) Pledge (d) Sponge
(c) Constant (d) Polite 99. Maestro
86. Petition (a) Admirer (b) Employee
(a) Rotation (b) Administration (c) Novice (d) Genius
(c) Appeal (d) Vocation 100. Feeble
87. Proposition (a) Playful (b) Pretty
(a) Intimation (b) Protestation (c) Small (d) Weak
(c) Proposal (d) Invitation 101. Chastise
88. Vivacious (a) Upbraid (b) Monitor
(a) Imaginary (b) Lively (c) Chase (d) Praise
(c) Perceptible (d) Languid
89. Sporadic DIRECTIONS (Qs. 102-105) : In the following questions, out of
(a) Timely (b) Scattered the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the
(c) Frequent (d) Irrelevant meaning of the given word.
(SSC CHSL 2015)
Synonyms 5

102. Vocation 116. Eternal

(a) Virtue (b) Holiday (a) Time being (b) Forever
(c) Break up (d) Occupation (c) Temporary (d) Short term
103. Limpid 117. Adversity
(a) Ruffled (b) Crippled (a) Familiarity (b) Misery
(c) Lopsided (d) Clear (c) Seniority (d) Spirituality
104. Merge 118. Revel
(a) Blend (b) Meet (a) Reveal (b) Revert
(c) Mixture (d) Contact (c) Make Merry (d) Glory
105. Gourmet
(a) Fussy (b) Constant DIRECTIONS (Qs. 119-120) : In the following questions, out of
(c) Gastronome (d) Praise the four alternatives, select the word similar in meaning to the
word given.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 106-109): In the following questions, out of
the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the (SSC CGL 2017 set-1)
meaning of the given word. 119. Opulent
(a) Fake (b) Gloomy
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015) (c) Rich (d) Selfish
106. Board 120. Morose
(a) Frame (b) Lodging (a) Flatter (b) Gloomy
(c) Food (d) Furniture (c) Friendly (d) Savvy
107. Peruse
(a) Follow (b) Argue DIRECTIONS (Qs. 121-122) : In the following questions, out of
(c) Reduce (d) Read the four alternatives, select the word similar in meaning to the
108. Spume word given.
(a) Foam (b) Lava
(SSC CGL 2017 set-2)
(c) Poison (d) Spit
121. Frivolous
109. Conscript (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
(a) Draftee (b) Draw (a) Captious (b) Wise
(c) Encircle (d) Subscribe (c) Puerile (d) Spiritual
122. Petrify
DIRECTONS : (Qs. 110-111) : In the following questions, out of (a) Adorn (b) Calm
the four alternatives, choose the word which best expresses the (c) Curious (d) Harden
meaning of the given word.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 123-124) : In the following questions, out of
110. Profligate (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) the four alternatives, select the word similar in meaning to the
(a) Talkative (b) Intelligent word given.
(c) Unconventional (d) Wasteful
(SSC CGL 2017 set-3)
111. Forswear (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
123. Mellifluous
(a) Swear (b) Oath
(a) Shiver (b) Frank
(c) Abuse (d) Forsake
(c) Immoral (d) Dulcet
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 112-113) : In the following questions, out 124. Dodge
of the four alternatives, choose the word which best expresses (a) Soften (b) Order
the meaning of the given word. (c) Avoid (d) Chaotic
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 125-128) : In the following questions, out of
112. Credulous the four alternatives, select the word similar in meaning to the
(a) Funny (b) Silly word given.
(c) Innoccent (d) Gullible
(SSC CGL 2017 set-4)
113. Reassure
(a) Comfort (b) Console 125. Eloquent
(c) Inspire (d) Discourage (a) Fluent (b) Ignorant
(c) Rude (d) Significant
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 114-118) : In the following five questions, 126. Nefarious
out of the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses (a) Iniquitous (b) Purposeful
the meaning of the given word. (c) Suspicious (d) Virtuous
(SSC Stenographer 2016) 127. To subsume (SSC CHSL 2017)
114. Brutal (a) To bate (b) To obviate
(a) Sympathetic (b) Compassionate (c) To preclude (d) To incorporate
(c) Humane (d) Savage 128. To lash (SSC CHSL 2017)
115. Stroll
(a) To endear (b) To fondle
(a) Walk (b) Jog
(c) Trat (d) Gallop (c) To chastise (d) To snuggle
 6 Synonyms

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 129 – 133) : In the following questions, out 143. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
of the four alternatives, select the word similar in meaning to INSULT (SSC CGL 2018)
the word given. (a) remove (b) apply
(c) offer (d) offend
(SSC Sub. Insp. 2017) 144. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
129. Amateur HOSTILITY (SSC CGL 2018)
(a) Timid (b) Beginner (a) enmity (b) sympathy
(c) Weary (d) Dispirited (c) goodwill (d) friendship
130. Gumption 145. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
(a) Acumen (b) Starry ABUNDANT (SSC Steno 2018)
(c) Futile (d) Fallow (a) plentiful (b) available
131. Laconic (c) necessary (d) latest
(a) Shrewd (b) Whim 146. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
(c) Climax (d) Concise DECEIVE (SSC Steno 2018)
132. Valedictory (a) cheat (b) withdraw
(a) Hesitant (b) Terminal (c) provide (d) guide
(c) Ridicule (d) Deception 147. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
133. Denouement VANQUISH (SSC Steno 2018)
(a) Climax (b) Systematic (a) defeat (b) attack
(c) Improper (d) Glorious (c) victory (d) loss
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 134 – 138) : In the following questions, out 148. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
of the four given alternatives, select the one which best expreses EMPHASIZE (SSC Steno 2018)
the meaning of the given word. (a) repeat (b) draw
(c) stress (d) show
(SSC Steno. 2017) 149. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
134. Distinct MASSIVE (SSC Steno 2018)
(a) Obscure (b) Similar (a) honour (b) majority
(c) Clear (d) Vague (c) muscular (d) huge
135. Condemn 150. Select the synonym of the given word.
(a) Approve (b) Laud FEIGN (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
(c) Belittle (d) Commend (a) pretend (b) prefer
136. Dingy (c) prepare (d) pester
(a) Pure (b) Sterile 151. Select the synonym of the given word.
(c) Immaculate (d) Drab AFFLUENT (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
137. Clever (a) strong (b) wealthy
(a) Clear (b) Cunning (c) clever (d) joyous
(c) Foolish (d) Intelligent 152. Select the synonym of the given word.
138. Constant DAME (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
(a) Changing (b) Flowing (a) girl (b) man
(c) Moving (d) Fixed (c) female (d) lady
153. Select the synonym of the given word.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 139 - 140): In the following questions, out of
ECSTASY (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the
(a) grief (b) danger
meaning of the given word.
(c) happiness (d) fear
(SSC MTS 2017) 154. Select the synonym of the given word.
139. Exactly COMMENDABLE (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
(a) Different (b) Precisely (a) satisfying (b) grateful
(c) Similar (d) Same (c) praiseworthy (d) courteous
140. Answer 155. Select the synonym of the given word.
(a) Response (b) Speak Awkward (SSC MTS 2018)
(a) Likable (b) Clumsy
(c) Question (d) React (c) Worthy (d) Scared
141. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. 156. Select the synonym of the given word.
WARY (SSC CHSL 2018) Dedicate (SSC MTS 2018)
(a) rash (b) inattentive (a) Decide (b) Design
(c) lax (d) alert (c) Denounce (d) Devote
142. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. 157. Select the correct synonym of the given word.
RECEDE (SSC CHSL 2018) Obligatory (SSC CGL 2019-20)
(a) increase (b) intensify (a) Reckless (b) Useless
(c) waver (d) wane (c) Mandatory (d) Aggressive
Synonyms 7

158. Select the correct synonym of the given word. 171. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
Scintillating (SSC CGL 2019-20) TRANQUIL (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(a) Glittering (b) Boring (a) lll-tempered (b) nervous
(c) Stinging (d) Flattering (c) worried (d) sober
159. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word. 172. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
Acute (SSC MTS 2019-20) TIMID (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(a) Dark (b) Clever (a) courageous (b) bold
(c) Grave (d) Blunt (c) confident (d) humble
160. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. 173. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
Deepen (SSC MTS 2019-20) HOSPITABLE (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(a) Soothe (b) Neutralize (a) hostile (b) stingy
(c) Relieve (d) Intensify (c) unsocial (d) congenial
161. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. 174. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
Courage (SSC MTS 2019-20) STATIONARY (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(a) Meekness (b) Valour (a) Fixed (b) Paper
(c) Humility (d) Timidity (c) Movable (d) Portable
162. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given 175. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
word.AGILE (SSC CHSL 2019-20) FOUNDATION (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(a) Visible (b) Guile (a) top (b) building
(c) Nimble (d) Docile (c) base (d) structure
163. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given 176. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
word.FURTIVE (SSC CHSL 2019-20) FICTION (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(a) Adhesive (b) Positive
(a) literature (b) fact
(c) Secretive (d) Abortive
(c) fantasy (d) truth
164. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
Yield (n) (SSC CGL 2020-21) 177. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
(a) Plantation (b) Garden ACCURATE (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(c) Orchard (d) Harvest (a) sincere (b) correct
165. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. (c) complete (d) appropriate
Iota (SSC CGL-2020-21) 178. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
(a) Lot (b) Bag IMITATION (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(c) Bit (d) Box (a) genuine (b) fake
(c) real (d) original
166. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
179. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
Ban (SSC CHSL 2020-21) JUST (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(a) Prohibit (b) Ascertain (a) courtly (b) fair
(c) Abandon (d) Band (c) favouring (d) partial
167. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. 180. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
Random (SSC MTS 2021-22)
REPULSIVE (SSC CHSL 2020-21)
(a) Definite (b) Continuous
(a) respectable (b) agreeable (c) Systematic (d) Chance
(c) attractive (d) disgusting 181. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
168. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. Modest (SSC MTS 2021-22)
STRENUOUS (SSC MTS 2020-21) (a) Bold (b) Humble
(a) Easy (b) Feeble (c) Dismal (d) Grave
182. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
(c) Difficult (d) Light (SSC CGL 2021-22)
169. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. ostentatious
PROACTIVE (SSC MTS 2020-21) (a) showy (b) tasteful
(a) Short-sighted (b) Enthusiastic (c) sudden (d) quick
(c) Reactive (d) Heedless 183. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
170. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. (SSC CGL 2021-22)
DEFICIENT (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) Retaliate
(a) Lacking (b) Difficult (a) Clap (b) React
(c) Challenging (d) Bold (c) Facilitate (d) Rotate
 8 Synonyms

184. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. The soldiers showed fortitude and resilience while facing
(SSC CGL 2021-22) the opponents. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
Avert (a) Ingenuity (b) Bravery
(a) Permit (b) Confront (c) Atrocity (d) Conscientiousness
(c) Face (d) Prevent 191. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
185. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. Lucky (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(SSC CGL 2022) (a) Outrageous (b) Jealous
Confusion (c) Auspicious (d) Ominous
(a) Intrepidity (b) Stagnation 192. Select the most appropriate synonym to replace the italicised
(c) Perusal (d) Commotion word. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
The smoke was bothering me, and I didn't want to ruin the
186. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
party for all of you, so I simply walked home.
Camouflage (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(a) despoil (b) fix
(a) Disguise (b) Cover (c) revamp (d) recover
(c) Transform (d) Apparel 193. Select the most appropriate synonym to replace the italicised
187. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. word. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
Vice (SSC Stenographer 2022) Colossal granite obelisks were erected by only a few kings.
(a) Wrong (b) Immorality (a) Gigantic (b) Lilliputian
(c) Looseness (d) Villainy (c) Minute (d) Minuscule
188. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. 194. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
Bafflement (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
Cumbersome (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(a) Confusion (b) Pleasure
(a) Fatigue (b) Clumsy (c) Clarity (d) Cleanliness
(c) Easy (d) Light 195. Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word.
189. Select the most appropriate synonym of the underlined word. Confront (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
(SSC Stenographer 2022) (a) Mingle (b) Conceal
Ritika was deprived of her father’s property as she married a (c) Challenge (d) Scheme
knave. 196. Select the word that is closest in meaning (SYNONYM) to
(a) Gallant (b) Novice the word given below. VAULT (SSC CHSL 2023)
(c) Rogue (d) Chauffeur (a) Ration (b) Crypt
190. Select the most appropriate synonym of the underlined word. (c) Raisins (d) Monarch
(SSC Stenographer 2022)
Synonyms 9

HINTS & EXPLANATIONS

1. (d) The word Luxuriant (Adjective) means : growing 13. (c) The word Inclement (Adjective) means : not pleasant;
thickly and strongly; rich in something that is pleasant unfavourable; cold, wet, etc.
or beautiful; abundant. 14. (a) The word Genial (Adjective) means : friendly and
2. (c) The word Cantankerous (Adjective) means : bad cheerful; affable; cordial.
tempered and always complaining. 15. (c) The word Accrue (Verb) means : to increase over a
Hence, the words cantankerous and quarrelsome are period of time; to allow a sum of money or debts to
synonymous. grow over a period of time. Therefore, grow in the correct
3. (c) The word Onus (Noun) means : the responsibility for nearest word.
something. 16. (c) The word Barren (Adjective) means: not good enough
4. (c) The word Derision (Noun) means : ridicule; mockery; for plants to grow on it; infertile unproductive.
a strong feeling that somebody/something is ridiculous 17. (a) The word Infamy (Noun) means: the state of being well-
and not worth considering seriously. known for something bad or an evil act; notoriety.
5. (a) The word Trite (Adjective) means : dull and boring 18. (b) The word Intrepid (Adjective) means : very brave; not
because it has been expressed so many times before; afraid of danger or difficulties; fearless.
not original; banal; very ordinary and containing 19. (c) The word Prodigal (Adjective) means : too willing to
nothing that is interesting or important. spend money or waste time, energy or materials;
Hence, the words trite and commonplace are extravagant; lavish.
synonymous. 20. (b) The word Perspicuous (Adjective) means: precise clear
6. (b) The word Debacle (Noun) means : an event or a situation and accurate.
that is a sudden or complete failure. 21. (a) The word Nexus (Noun) means : a complicated series
Hence, the words debacle and downfall are of connections between different things; connection.
synonymous. 22. (b) The word Mammoth (Adjective) means : extremely large;
7. (a) The word Ostracise (Verb) means : to refuse to let huge.
somebody a member of a social group; shun. 23. (d) The word Hyperbole (Noun) means : a way of speaking
Hence, the wor ds banish and ostracise are or writing that makes something sound better, more
synonymous. exciting than it really is; exaggeration.
8. (c) The word Prophylactic (Adjective) means : course of 24. (d) The word Eulogy (Noun) means : speech or piece of
action used to prevent a disease. writing praising somebody/something very much; praise.
Hence, the words prophylactic and preventive are 25. (b) The word Menacingly (Adverb) means : seeming likely
synonymous. to cause you harm or danger; threateningly.
9. (b) The word Coddle (Verb) means: to treat somebody with 26. (c) The word Annexure (Noun) means : attachment;
too much care and attention, pamper, cosset. appendix
Hence, the words coddle and satisfy are synonymous. 27. (b) The word Errand (Noun) means : a job that you do for
10. (c) The word Flimsy (Ajective) means : badly made and somebody; task
not strong enough: thin and easily torn. 28. (a) The word Bequeath (Verb) means : pass something on
Hence, the words flimsy and weak are synonymous. to someone else; give
11. (a) The word Loquacious (Adjective) means : talking a lot; 29. (b) The word Nonchalant (Adjective) means : careless;
talkative. Option (a) is the right synonym while others indifferent; behaving in a calm and relaxed way; casual.
have different meanings. 30. (b) The word Forbearance (Noun) means : patience; the
12. (c) The word Vindictive (Adjective) means : trying to harm quality of being patient and sympathetic towards other
or upset somebody or showing that you want to, people.
because you think that they have harmed you; spiteful; 31. (c) The word Gaol (Noun) means : a place for the
revengeful. Option (c) spiteful is the correct synonym confinement of accused person; put someone in jail.
as it means-having or showing a desire to harm, anger 32. (c) The word Loathing (Noun) means : a strong feeling of
or defeat someone. hatred.
 10 Synonyms

33. (d) The word Pragmatic (Adjective) means : practical, 51. (a) The word Conjurer (Noun) means: a person who
busy; realistic; solving problems in a practical and performs magic tricks ; magician.
sensible way rather than by having fixed ideas or 52. (c) The word Invoice (Noun) means: list of goods that have
theories. been sold ; bill ; statement.
34. (a) The word Notion (Noun) means : belief; desire; 53. (a) The word Ameliorate (Verb) means: to make something
intention; thought. better; improve.
35. (b) The word Vivacious (Adjective) means : having a lively, 54. (d) Wily (Adjective) means cunning which also means
attractive personality; energetic. skillful or clever.
36. (b) The meaning of word Vociferous (Adjective) is : 55. (c) Temerity (Noun) best expresses the meaning of
outspoken, blunt. Its synonym should be : Loud. audacity
37. (c) The meaning of word Fictional (Adjective) is : imaginary, 56. (c) Advocate (Verb) means to argue for or support a cause.
unreal, fabricated, mythical 57. (d) Preamble (Noun) is a statement made at the beginning
Its synonym should be : Fanciful of something.
38. (d) The meaning of word Trivial (Adjective) is : not 58. (a) Collate (Verb) refers to, arranging in the correct order.
important. Option (a) assemble is the correct synonym.
Its synonym should be : Ordinary. 59. (a) The word Garrulous (Adjective) means : talkative;
39. (c) The meaning of word Impudent (Adjective) is : not talking a lot.
showing due respect for another person. 60. (b) The word Tinsel (Noun/Adjective) means : strips of
Insolent is the correct synonym which means–to show shiny material like metal used as decorations.
a rude and arrogant attitude. 61. (a) The word Labyrinth (Noun) means : a place that has
40. (a) The meaning of word Pompous (Adjective) is : self many confusing path's or passage. The correct
important. synonym meandering means: to have a lot of curves
It’s synonym should be : Pretentious. on a path.
41. (a) The meaning of Indiscriminate (Adj.) : random, chaotic 62. (c) The word Citadel (Noun) means : a castle on high
“Undifferentiated” best expresses the meaning of the ground where people could go when the city was being
given word. attacked; fortress.
42. (a) The meaning of Literal (Adj.): exact, real. “Verbatim” 63. (d) The word Stern (Adjective) means : strict; harsh serious
means exactly the same. and difficult.
43. (c) The meaning of Intricate (Adj.): complicated, elaborate. 64. (c) The word Aberration (Noun) means : deviation;
“Complicated” best expresses the meaning of given unusual action.
word. 65. (a) Condone and forgive are similar in meaning.
44. (d) The meaning of Expeditiously (Adverb) : actively, 66. (b) Analogy denotes comparison.
intently. Quickly best expresses the meaning of given 67. (c) Allure and entice both denote provoking someone to
word. do something through (often false or exaggerated)
45. (d) The meaning of Idiosyncrasies (Noun) : oddity, way of promises or persuasion.
doing something in an unusual way. Eccentricities best 68. (d) Parsimony means extreme unwillingness to spend
expresses the meaning of the given word. money. Option (d) expresses the correct meaning.
46. (b) Apprise means to inform someone. 69. (b) Tribulation means, unhapiness, pain or suffering.
47. (d) Periodic means happening regularly over a period of 70. (c) Ramparts and Parapet are synonymous which mean: a
time. low wall at the edge of a platform.
48. (b) Gruesome means disgusting and therefore option (b) 71. (b) Barbaric means uncivilized.
is correct as hideous means very ugly or disgusting. 72. (d) Hurdle means obstacle.
49. (a) The word Abnormal (Adjective) means: unusual, 73. (a) Deter means to hinder.
irregular ; unnatural ; different from what is usual. 74. (d) Disgrace means a state of shame.
Look at the sentence : 75. (a) Striking means extraordinary, attractive.
They thought his behaviour was abnormal. 76. (b) Fiasco means a complete failure.
50. (a) The word Venal (Adjective) means : corrupt; prepared 77. (d) Persist means to insist.
to do dishonest or immoral thing for money. 78. (c) Eventually means finally.
Look at the sentence : 79. (c) Impeccable means flawless.
Venal leaders should be denied vote. 80. (b) Scorn means contempt towards something.
Synonyms 11

81. (a) Catastrophe means an event causing great and usually 105. (c) Gourmet means a connoisseur of good food. Whereas,
sudden damage or suffering. Gastronome means a lover of good food. Therefore,
82. (a) Abjure means solemnly renounce. Gastronome is the synonym of Gourmet.
83. (b) Assess means to get measure of. 106. (b) Lodging is the answer. Board (verb) regular meals in a
84. (c) Elastic means able to encompass much variety and house in retyrn for payment.
change; flexible and adaptable. 107. (d) Peruse means examine or consider with attention and
85. (b) Persevere means continue in a course of action even in detail. Example: "Please peruse this report at your
in the face of difficulty or with little or no indication of leisure."
success. Persist means continue in an opinion or 108. (a) Spume means bubbles that form on ocean waves. Lava,
course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition. poison and spit do not correspond to the given word.
86. (c) Petition means a formal written request, typically one 109. (a) Conscription, or drafting is the compulsory enlistment
signed by many people, appealing to authority in of people in a national service.
respect of a particular cause. 110. (d) Profligate means wasting money and material foolishly.
87. (c) Proposition means a plan or scheme proposed. 111. (d) Forswear means to give up something. Hence option (d)
88. (b) Vivacious means attractively lively and animated. forsake is correct.
89. (b) Sporadic means occurring at irregular intervals or only 112. (d) Credulous means having or showing too great a
in a few places; scattered or isolated. readiness to believe things.
90. (d) Devout means deeply religious or pious. Gullible means easily persuaded to believe something.
91. (d) Predilection means a predisposition in favour of 113. (a) Reassure means to make someone feel less afraid or
something; A strong liking; preference. doubtful
92. (a) Effigy means a representation of a person (especially Comfort means the easing or alleviation of a person's
in the form of sculpture); hence, dummy. feelings of grief or distress.
93. (b) Annihilate means to destroy utterly. 114. (d) Brutal means cruel and savage too means the same.
94. (a) Quarry means a quest or pursuit for an object. 115. (a) Stroll means a lazy walk.
95. (c) Interference means act of interfering or obstructing. 116. (b) Eternal means endless, without pause, timeless etc.
96. (d) Verisimilitude means the state of being similar. Hence, forever is the correct synonym.
Therefore, authenticity is the correct meaning of 117. (b) Adversity means bad luck on misfortune, therefore,
verisimilitude. misery is the correct synonym.
97. (b) Conjecture means an opinion or guess formed on the 118. (c) Revel means celebration and festivity, etc., hence,
basis of incomplete information. Make merry is the correct synonym.
98. (c) Pawn as a noun means something given as security 119. (c) Opulent means wealthy and rich.
for loan; a pledge or gaurantee. Therefore, Pledge is 120. (b) Morose means gloomily or sullenly ill- humoured.
the synonym of Pawn. 121. (c) Frivolous means not having serious purpose or value.
99. (d) Maestro means a person who is an expert in a 122. (d) Petrify means to make someone so frightened that they
particular sphere. Genius refers to an intelligent are unable to move ; change into a stony substance.
person who possesses exceptional skill in a particular 123. (d) Mellifluous means pleasingly smooth and musical to
area. Therefore, genius is the synonym of maestro. hear.
100. (d) Feeble means lacking physical strength. Therefore, 124. (c) Dodge means a sudden quick movement to avoid
weak is the correct synony in of feeble. something.
101. (a) Chastise means to rebuke or scold severely. Upbraid 125. (a) Eloquent means fluent or persuasive in speaking or
means to find fault with someone or scold. Therefore, writing.
upbraid is the synonym of chastise. 126. (a) Nefarious means morally bad in principles or practice.
102. (d) Vocation means the work in which a person is employed 127. (d) Subsume means to include something in a particular
or occupation. Therefore, occupation is the synonym group. The word incorporate also has similar meaning.
of vocation. So, option (d) is the correct answer.
103. (d) Limpid means perfectly clear. Therefore, clear is the 128. (c) To lash means to hit something with great force. The
correct synonym of Limpid. word chastise refers to punishing somebody physically.
104. (a) Merge means to blend or combine to form a single So, option (c) is the right answer.
entity. Therefore, blend is the correct synonym of 129. (b) Amateur means a person who is unqualified or
Merge. insufficiently skillful, i.e., a starter or a beginner.
 12 Synonyms

130. (a) Gumption means the ability to decide what is the best 152. (d) Dame means 'an elderly or matured woman'.
thing to do in a particular situation. Acumen means 153. (c) Ecstasy refers to extreme happiness.
skill in making correct decisions and judgments in a 154. (c) Commendable means deserving of laurels.
particular subject. 155. (b) The word 'awkward' means ‘difficult to deal with’ the
131. (d) Laconic means using very few words. Concise means words 'likable' and worthy' are opposite in meaning
giving a lot of information clearly and in a few words. 'Scared' means 'fearful' which is not related. Hence
132. (b) Valedictory means serving as a farewell (end). Terminal 'clumsy' is the correct answer.
means forming or situated at the end or extremity of 156. (a) The word 'dedicate' means 'devote'.
something. Hence, the option no. (d) is the right option.
133. (a) Denouement means the outcome of a situation, when 157. (c) Mandatory
something is decided or made clear. Climax means the Obligatory means required by a legal, moral, or other
most intense, exciting, or important point of something; rule; mandatory. Hence, option (c) is the right answer.
the culmination. 158. (a) Scintillating means sparkling or shining brightly;
134. (c) Distinct means recognizably different in nature from glittering. Hence, option (a) is the right option.
something else of a similar type. Its synonym is clear 159. (d) Blunt means less sharp. Acute means sharp. Thus, the
meaning easy to perceive, understand, or interpret. opposite of acute is blunt.
160. (d) Deep means intense. Thus, deepen means intensify.
135. (c) Condemn means to say in a strong and definite way
161. (b) Courage means valour.
that someone or something is bad or wrong. Belittle
162. (c) Agile and nimble both mean -quick.
means to make a person or an action seem as if he, she 163. (c) Furtive means secretive.
or it is not important. 164. (d) Yield means to produce or provide (a natural, agricultural
136. (d) Dingy means gloomy and drab. or industrial product). Harvest is the process of
137. (d) Clever means quick to understand, learn, and devise gathering in crops. Therefore, Option (d)- harvest is the
or apply ideas; intelligent. synonym of yield.
138. (d) Constant means a situation that does not change. The 165. (c) Iota – means extremely small amount, so the answer is
word similar to meaning of constant is fixed. bit.
139. (d) Same and exactly have the same meaning. 166. (a) The closest word to ban is to prohibit.
140. (a) Answer and response are synonyms and similar in mean- 167. (d) The most appropriate synonym for repulsive is
ing. disgusting. Respectable-regarded good by society.
141. (d) ‘Wary’ means ‘feeling or showing caution about possible Agreeable- pleasant. Attractive-pleasing or appealing.
dangers or problems’. ‘Alert’ means the same; thus, it 168. (c) Strenuous means using great effort or exertion. The
will be the correct synonym of ‘wary’. closest word that comes to it is difficult.
142. (d) ‘Recede’ means ‘to go or move back or further away 169. (b) Proactive means creating or controlling a situation rather
from a previous position’. None of the options is the than just responding to it. This implies being
exact synonym of ‘recede’, however, ‘wane’ which enthusiastic.
170. (a) Deficient means lacking.
means ‘(of a state or feeling) decrease in vigour or extent’
171. (d) Tranquil means calm and the closest word to it of all
appears to be close in meaning to the word ‘recede’. the given options is sober.
143. (d) Insult means speak to or treat with disrespect or 172. (d) Timid means lack of courage and so its opposite is
scornful abuse; offend means cause to feel upset, humble.
annoyed, or resentful. 173. (d) Hostile means unfriendly, stingy means ungenerous,
unsocial is not social. Congenial is pleasing, which
144. (a) The most appropriate synonym of the word 'hostility'
makes it closer to hospitable.
is 'enmity'. All other options are not relevant. 174. (a) The synonym of stationary is fixed.
145. (a) Abundant means plentiful. 175. (c) Foundation means base.
146. (a) To deceive is to cheat. 176. (c) Literature can be fiction or factual. Therefore, the closest
147. (a) Vanish means 'defeat thoroughly'. word to fiction is fantasy. Because, fantasy is the realm
of imagination and so fiction. For e.g.: Harry Potter
148. (c) Emphasize means to lay stress upon something. 177. (b) The closest word to accurate is correct. Sincere means
149. (d) Massive means humongous or huge. true, appropriate means suitable and complete means
150. (a) Feign means pretension or hypocresy. finished or whole.
151. (b) Affluent means '(especially of a group or area) having a 178. (b) When you imitate something, it no longer is original/
great deal of money; wealthy'. genuine/real and thus becomes fake.
179. (b) Just means fair.
Synonyms 13

180. (d) Synonyms of Random are: chance, arbitrary and 189. (c) Gallant means brave, novice means new or
unsystematic. inexperienced and chauffeur means driver. It is the word
181. (b) Modest means: humble and self depreciating. ‘rogue’ that means ‘cheat’ or ‘dishonest’, which is also
182. (a) “showy” is the closest in meaning to the given word; the meaning of the word ‘knave’.
Ostentatious- characterized by pretentious or showy 190. (b) The meaning of the word ‘fortitude’ is courage or
display; designed to impress. bravery. Thus, option (b) is the right answer.
183 (b) “react” is the closest in meaning to the given word; 191. (c) The most appropriate synonym of the word ‘lucky’ is
Retaliate- make an attack in return for a similar attack. ‘auspicious’. Others words on the list have a negative
184 (d) “prevent” is the closest in meaning to the given word; meaning.
Avert- prevent or ward off (an undesirable occurrence). 192. (a) Ruin means to destroy. Despoil has a similar meaning
185. (d) The synonym of ‘Confusion’ is ‘Commotion’. to the word ‘ruin’, which is ‘to rob, steal or finish
186. (a) ‘Disguise’ is the correct synonym of the word something’. In the sentence, the person does not want
‘Camouflage’ because both words have similar to spoil the party or the mood of his friends by
meanings, which is ‘to hide’. Rest of the words do not mentioning his discomfort. Thus, the words ‘ruin’,
give the same meaning as ‘Camouflage’. ‘despoil’ and ‘spoil’ are synonymous to each other.
187. (b) ‘Vice’ means a certain wrongdoing. The term which is
193. (a) The word ‘colossal’, like the word ‘gigantic’ means
the closest synonym of the word ‘vice’ is ‘immorality’.
‘Villainy’ and ‘looseness’ are different kinds of vice. ‘great or large’. Other words on the list mean ‘small’.
Option (b) is the most appropriate option. 194. (a) Synonyms of Bafflement are Confusion, perplex, puzzle
188. (b) ‘Cumbersome’ means something that is complicated mystify etc.
and inefficient. The term that comes closest to its 195. (c) Synonyms of Confront is : Challenge, square up to
meaning is ‘clumsy’. Hence, option (b) is the correct and resist.
response. 196. (b) The synonyms of the word Vault are tomb, repository
and crypt.
 Chapter
2 Antonyms

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 1-5) : In the following questions, choose the 13. Feasible
word opposite in meaning to the given word. (a) Useful (b) Impractical
(c) Uneven (d) Important
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2010)
14. Meticulous
1. Florid
(a) Forgetful (b) Destructive
(a) Weak (b) Pale
(c) Monotonous (d) Ugly (c) Careless (d) Flagrant
2. Verity 15. Synthetic
(a) Sanctity (b) Reverence (a) Natural (b) Plastic
(c) Falsehood (d) Rarity (c) Cosmetic (d) Apathetic
3. Perspicuity DIRECTIONS (Qs. 16-20) : In the following questions, choose
(a) Vagueness (b) Dullness the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
(c) Unfairness (d) Unwillingness (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2011)
4. Fervent 16. Liberty
(a) Inexcitable (b) Enduring (a) Serenity (b) Slavery
(c) Dispassionate (d) Subdued (c) Serfdom (d) Subordination
5. Meandering 17. Disorderly
(a) Sliding (b) Slopping (a) Chaotic (b) Organized
(c) Strained (d) Straight (c) Adjusted (d) Arranged
18. Elevation
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 6-10) : In the following questions, choose
the word opposite in meaning to the given word. (a) Reduction (b) Humiliation
(c) Depression (d) Debasement
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2010) 19. Glossy
6. Jettison (a) Dull (b) Shining
(a) Accept (b) Reward (c) Weary (d) Tired
(c) Preserve (d) Consent
20. Appropriate
7. Ameliorate
(a) Improve (b) Depend (a) Dissimilar (b) Incomparable
(c) Soften (d) Worsen (c) Unsuitable (d) Disparate
8. Grotesque DIRECTIONS (Qs. 21-25) : In the following questions, choose
(a) Natural (b) Odd the word opposite in meaning to the given word as your answer.
(c) Whimsical (d) Sinful (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012)
9. Devious 21. Impeccable
(a) Straight (b) Obvious
(a) Faulty (b) Tedious
(c) Simple (d) Superficial
10. Evanescent (c) Flashy (d) Boring
(a) Imminent (b) Permanent 22. Amalgamate
(c) Pervasive (d) Immanent (a) Separate (b) Combine
(c) Assimilate (d) Integrate
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 11-15) : In the following questions, out of the 23. Zenith
four alternatives, choose the word opposite in meaning to the (a) Climax (b) Crisis
given word. (c) Acme (d) Nadir
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2011) 24. Influx
11. Accord (a) Reflex (b) Deflection
(a) Disagreement (b) Welcome (c) Effluent (d) Exodus
(c) Disrespect (d) Conformity 25. Orderly
12. Infirmity (a) Semitic (b) Colic
(a) Employment (b) Indisposition (c) Democratic (d) Chaotic
(c) Strength (d) Weakness
Antonyms 15

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 26-30) : In the following questions, choose DIRECTIONS (Qs. 41-45) : In the following questions, choose
the word opposite in meaning to the given word. the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012) (SSC Sub Inc. 2012)
26. Amenable 41. Resourcefulness
(a) Acquiescent (b) Distrustful (a) Scarcity (b) Stupidity
(c) Inattentive (d) Unwilling (c) Incompetence (d) Bankruptcy
27. Conspicuous 42. Evolve
(a) Blatant (b) Definite (a) Withdraw (b) Withhold
(c) Obvious (d) Obscure (c) Suspend (d) Stop
28. Reproof 43. Antiquated
(a) Approbation (b) Apposition (a) Renewed (b) Unique
(c) Condemnation (d) Appropriation (c) Modern (d) Renovated
29. Niggard 44. Pathetic
(a) Avaricious (b) Extravagant (a) Comic (b) Ridiculous
(c) Generous (d) Miserly (c) Dramatic (d) Trivial
30. Exotic 45. Fastidious
(a) Conventional (b) Poor (a) Ugly(b) Shabby
(c) Inexpensive (d) Indigenous (c) Shallow (d) Discourteous
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 31-35): In the following questions, choose DIRECTIONS (Qs. 46-48) : In the following questions, choose
the word opposite in meaning to the given word as your answer. the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012) (SSC CHSL 2012)
31. Hasten 46. Knack
(a) Dash (b) Dawdle (a) Talent (b) Dullness
(c) Hurry (d) Scurry (c) Dexterity (d) Balance
32. Spirited 47. Pernicious
(a) Animated (b) Excited (a) Prolonged (b) Ruinous
(c) Lively (d) Dull (c) Ruthless (d) Beneficial
33. Forthright 48. Opulence
(a) Blunt (b) Tricky (a) Luxury (b) Transparency
(c) Candid (d) Plainspoken (c) Weath (d) Poverty
34. Antagonism DIRECTIONS (Qs. 49-51) : In the following questions, choose
(a) Cordiality (b) Animosity the work opposite in meaning to the given word.
(c) Hostility (d) Enmity (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
35. Vanity 49. Ambiguous
(a) Humanity (b) Humility (a) Easy (b) Plain
(c) Pretension (d) Arrogance (c) Clear (d) Simple
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 36-40) : In the following questions, choose 50. Accolade
the word opposite in meaning to the given word. (a) Permeate (b) Blame
(c) Reticent (d) Decorate
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012)
51. Wary
36. Cultivated
(a) Rash (b) Conscientious
(a) Crude (b) Genteel
(c) Daring (d) Thrifty
(c) Suave (d) Refined
37. Impertinent DIRECTIONS (Qs. 52-54) : In the following questions, choose
(a) Insolent (b) Impudent the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
(c) Cheeky (d) Courteous (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2013)
38. Divulge 52. Cordial
(a) Disseminate (b) Dissemble (a) Fast (b) Heartfelt
(c) Publicize (d) Transmit (c) Friendly (d) Hostile
39. Appreciation 53. Instinctive
(a) Aspersions (b) Admiration (a) Innate (b) Rational
(c) Commendation (d) Compliment (c) Inherent (d) Inborn
40. Supple 54. Venial
(a) Pliant (b) Pliable (a) Minor (b) Pardonable
(c) Rigid (d) Flexible (c) Unpardonable (d) Clean
 16 Antonyms

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 55-57) : In these questions, choose the word 68. Adulteration
opposite in meaning to the given word and mark it. (a) Purification (b) Normalization
(c) Rejuvenation (d) Consternation
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
55. Dwindle DIRECTIONS (Qs. 69-70) : In the following questions, choose
(a) Decrease (b) Diminish the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
(c) Shrink (d) Increase
(SSC CHSL 2013)
56. Dormant
69. Insipid
(a) Active (b) Inactive
(a) Tasty (b) Colourful
(c) Dorsal (d) Domestic (c) Colourless (d) Dull
57. Tranquility 70. Relinquish
(a) Disturbance (b) Quiet (a) Relish (b) Continue
(c) Serenity (d) Peace (c) Vanish (d) Quench
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 58-60) : In the following questions, choose DIRECTIONS (Qs. 71-73) : In the following questions, choose
the word opposite in meaning to the given word. the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) (SSC Multitasking 2013)
58. Fabricate 71. Indolent
(a) Unearth (b) Construct (a) Solvent (b) Diligent
(c) Demolish (d) Renovate (c) Malovolent (d) Brilliant
59. Gregarious 72. Coherent
(a) Sociable (b) Societal (a) Distorted (b) Disorganized
(c) Unsociable (d) Solitary (c) Inept (d) Carefree
60. Pragmatic 73. Brutal
(a) Indefinite (b) Vague (a) Adamant (b) Humane
(c) Optimistic (d) Idealistic (c) Fearless (d) Criminal

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 61–63): In the following questions, choose DIRECTIONS (Qs. 74-76): In the following questions, choose
the word opposite in meaning to the given word. the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) (SSC CGL 2014)
61. Lunacy 74. Predilection
(a) Sanity (b) Stupidity (a) Predicament (b) Afterthought
(c) Aversion (d) Postponement
(c) Sensibility (d) Insanity
75. Pompous
62. Obtuse
(a) Uppish (b) Humble
(a) Sharp-witted (b) Transparent
(c) Meek (d) Grandiose
(c) Timid (d) Blunt 76. Serene
63. Inadvertently (a) Calm(b) Angry
(a) Secretly (b) Accidentally (c) Ruffled (d) Bitter
(c) Completely (d) Deliberately
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 77-81) : In the following questions below,
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 64-68) : In the following questions, choose choose the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
(SSC Sub Inc. 2014)
(SSC SI 2013) 77. Safe
64. Debacle (a) Rash (b) Insecure
(a) Success (b) Response (c) Beneficial (d) Harsh
(c) Acceptance (d) Agreement 78. Redundant
65. Abusive (a) Repentant (b) Surplus
(a) Laudatory (b) Profuse (c) Singular (d) Required
(c) Effusive (d) Noble 79. Fair
66. Amorphous (a) Untrue (b) Unjust
(c) Coarse (d) Harsh
(a) Amoral (b) Definite
80. Boisterous
(c) Perfect (d) Irregular
(a) Serenity (b) Calm
67. Unitary (c) Cheerful (d) Courageous
(a) Single (b) Triple 81. Substantial
(c) Multiple (d) Double (a) Flimsy (b) Hefty
(c) Actual (d) Excess
Antonyms 17

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 82-86) : In the following questions, choose DIRECTIONS (Qs. 96-100) : In the following questions below,
the word opposite in meaning to the given word. choose the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
(SSC CHSL 2014) (SSC Sub Inc. 2015)
82. Equilibrium 96. Unscrupulous
(a) Work out (b) Disturb (a) Single - minded (b) Superfluous
(c) Imbalance (d) Unevenness (c) Dedicated (d) Conscientious
83. Immortal 97. Tranquil
(a) Eternal (b) Permanent (a) Perpetual (b) Temporal
(c) Deathly (d) Temporary (c) Unruffled (d) Disturbed
84. Focus 98. Enlarge
(a) Disappear (b) Disperse (a) Amplify (b) Glorify
(c) Link (d) Layer (c) Condense (d) Augment
85. Veteran 99. Obsequious
(a) Activist (b) Enthusiast (a) Domineering (b) Clever
(c) Novice (d) Master (c) Opaque (d) Careful
86. Superfluous 100. Vacillate
(a) Essential (b) Excess (a) Injure (b) Relieve
(c) Unwanted (d) Necessary (c) Decide (d) Repel
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 87-89) : In the following questions, choose DIRECTONS (Qs. 101-104) : In the following questions, choose
the word opposite in meaning to the given word. the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
(SSC Multitasking 2014) (SSC CHSL 2015)
87. Gloomy 101. Bizarre
(a) Heavy (b) Gay (a) Ridiculous (b) Ordinary
(c) Sad (d) Forlorn (c) Comical (d) Droll
88. Start 102. Guilty
(a) Continue (b) Break (a) Honest (b) Innocent
(c) Begin (d) Resume (c) Sorry (d) Dubious
89. Elation 103. Accusation
(a) Animation (b) Bliss (a) Complaint (b) Felicitation
(c) Depression (d) Pride (c) Exculpation (d) Encouragement
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 90-92): In the following three Questions, 104. Appoint
choose the word opposite in meaning to the given word. (a) Reward (b) Yield
(c) Disunite (d) Dismiss
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015)
90. Tremulous DIRECTIONS (Qs. 105-109): In the following questions, choose
(a) Steady (b) Obese the word opposite in meaning to the given word.
(c) Young (d) Healthy (SSC CHSL 2015)
91. Fake 105. Illicit
(a) Fanciful (b) Real (a) Legal (b) Correct
(c) Ideal (d) Wrong (c) Approved (d) Noble
92. Disconsolate 106. Demand
(a) Joyous (b) Thankful (a) Supply (b) Claim
(c) Unprejudiced (d) Prominent (c) Request (d) Petition
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 93-95): In the following questions, choose 107. Descent
the word opposite in meaning to the given word. (a) Discern (b) Ascent
(c) Dissent (d) Assent
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015) 108. Notorious
93. Vacillation (a) Prominent (b) Infamous
(a) Inoculation (b) Relief (c) Honourable (d) Reputed
(c) Steadfastness (d) Remorse 109. Captivity (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
94. Placid (a) Slavery (b) Permission
(a) Dull (b) Stormy
(c) Freedom (d) Limitation
(c) Urgent (d) Moving
95. Effeminacy DIRECTONS (Qs. 110-111) : In the following questions, out of
(a) Manliness (b) Boorishness the four alternatives, choose the word which is opposite in
(c) Aggressiveness (d) Attractiveness meaning to the given word.
 18 Antonyms

110. Contemplative (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) 125. Uniform

(a) Wistful (b) Unreflective (a) Variable (b) Common
(c) Numbed (d) Aroused (c) Unfamiliar (d) A measure
111. Inclement 126. Obscure
(a) Radical (b) Mild (a) Hidden (b) Obvious
(c) Harsh (d) Tyrannical (c) Concealed (d) Zealous
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 112-116): In the following questions, choose DIRECTIONS (Qs. 127-128) : In the following questions, out of
the word opposite in meaning to the given word. the four alternatives, select the word opposite in meaning to the
word given.
(SSC Sub. Inc. 2016)
112. Ostracize (SSC CGL 2017)
(a) Patronize (b) Shun 127. Irk
(c) Crucify (d) Discard (a) Attract (b) Discourage
113. Unapproachable (c) Irritate (d) Please
(a) Withdrawn (b) Unclear 128. Grotesque
(c) Accessible (d) Casual (a) Free (b) Odd
114. Abstain (c) Plain (d) Queer
(a) Repel (b) Disgrace DIRECTIONS (Qs. 129-130) : In the following questions, out of
(c) Indulge (d) Dismiss the four alternatives, select the word opposite in meaning to the
115. Misanthropist word given.
(a) Zealot (b) Pedant
(SSC CGL 2017)
(c) Pragmatist (d) Philanthropist
129. Gregarious
116. Fortify
(a) Affable (b) Genial
(a) Support (b) Intensify
(c) Introvert (d) Urbane
(c) Undermine (d) Strengthen 130. Tremulous
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 117-121) : In the following questions, choose (a) Feeble (b) Frugal
the word opposite in meaning to the given word. (c) Stable (d) Vital
(SSC Steno. 2013) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 131-132) :In the following questions, out of
117. Formal the four alternatives, select the word opposite in meaning to the
(a) Heedful (b) Plain word given.
(c) Pitiable (d) Informal (SSC CGL 2017)
118. Thorough 131. Meretricious
(a) Intensive (b) Utter (a) Brazen (b) Natural
(c) Cursory (d) Detailed (c) Exemplary (d) Gaudy
119. Nasty
132. Nebulous
(a) Unpleasant (b) Beautiful
(a) Definite (b) Inchoate
(c) Ugly (d) Pleasant
(c) Dismal (d) Sullen
120. Exaggerate
(a) Abundance (b) Excerpt DIRECTIONS (Qs. 133-134) : In the following questions, out of
(c) Extravagant (d) understate the four alternatives, select the word opposite in meaning to the
121. Abrupt word given.
(a) Spongy (b) Smooth (SSC CGL 2017)
(c) Sudden (d) Crisp 133. Ensconce
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 122-126) : In the following questions, choose (a) Establish (b) Impudence
the word opposite in meaning to the given word. (c) Request (d) Unveil
134. Lugubrious
(SSC Steno. 2016) (a) Clumsy (b) Lucid
122. Inflammable (c) Optimistic (d) Sinister
(a) Combustible (b) Non-flammable 135. Amenable (SSC CHSL 2017)
(c) Flammable (d) Excitable
(a) Responsive (b) Pliable
123. Hasty
(c) Docile (d) Unsusceptible
(a) Harsh (b) Unhurried
136. To muster (SSC CHSL 2017)
(c) Rapid (d) Cautious
(a) To convocate (b) To rally
124. Attachment
(c) To estrange (d) To aggregate
(a) Attraction (b) Rejection
(c) Detachment (d) Aversion
Antonyms 19

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 137 – 141) : In the following questions, out (a) collect (b) horde
of four alternatives, select the word opposite in meaning to the (c) heap (d) distribute
word given. 151. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word.
POROUS (SSC CHSL-2018)
137. Bucolic (SSC Sub. Insp. 2017) (a) spongy (b) permeable
(a) Rustic (b) Dull (c) impermeable (d) absorbent
(c) Tranquil (d) Fierce 152. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word.
138. Compendium PROGRESSIVE (SSC CGL-2018)
(a) Expansion (b) Reference (a) conservative (b) repeated
(c) Precis (d) Outline (c) aristocratic (d) moving
139. Chastise 153. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word.
(a) Praise (b) Resist PUBLIC (SSC CGL-2018)
(c) Prefer (d) Repel (a) common (b) ready
140. Daunt (c) private (d) resticted
(a) Rejoice (b) Encourage 154. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word.
(c) Decrease (d) Discard STRANGE (SSC Steno-2018)
141. Oblivious (a) durable (b) delicate
(a) Hideous (b) Victorious (c) unknown (d) familiar
(c) Conscious (d) Advantageous 155. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 142 – 146) : In the following question, out SHALLOW (SSC Steno-2018)
of the four given alternatives, select the word opposite in (a) dry (b) deep
meaning to the word given. (c) close (d) clean
(SSC Steno. 2017) 156. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word.
142. Confine TRANSPARENT (SSC Steno-2018)
(a) Permit (b) Restrain (a) thick (b) weary
(c) Restrict (d) Imprison (c) glassy (d) opaque
143. Defeat 157. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word.
(a) Beat (b) Attainment VACATE (SSC Steno-2018)
(c) Collapse (d) Loss (a) holiday (b) occupy
144. Fervent (c) discharge (d) abandon
(a) Passionate (b) Cold 158. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word.
(c) Zealous (d) Blazing AMBIGUOUS (SSC Steno-2018)
145. Imitation (a) ambitious (b) rare
(a) Copy (b) Echo (c) vague (d) clear
(c) Genuine (d) Follow 159. Select the antonym of the given word.
146. Immense HOSTILE (SSC Sub. Ins.-2018)
(a) Big (b) Tiny (a) aggressive (b) rebel
(c) Huge (d) Grand (c) forceful (d) friendly
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 147-149): In the following questions, out of 160. Select the antonym of the given word.
ASSEMBLE (SSC Sub. Ins.-2018)
the four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the
(a) disperse (b) gather
meaning opposite to the given word.
(c) resemble (d) create
147. Scatter (SSC MTS 2017) 161. Select the antonym of the given word.
(a) Store (b) Pile MOROSE (SSC Sub. Ins.-2018)
(c) Hoard (d) Collect (a) cheerful (b) gloomy
148. Peak (c) sick (d) tasteless
(a) Inferior (b) Deep 162. Select the antonym of the given word.
(c) Mount (d) Bottom EXTRAVAGANT (SSC Sub. Ins.-2018)
149. despair (a) resentful (b) wasteful
(a) Hope (b) Sorrow (c) thrifty (d) deficient
(d) Repair (d) Empty 163. Select the antonym of the given word.
150. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word. BONDAGE (SSC Sub. Ins.-2018)
AMASS (SSC CHSL-2018) (a) slavery (b) liberty
(c) wealth (d) affection
 20 Antonyms

164. Select the antonym of the given word. 177. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
PERSUADE (SSC MTS 2018) HARMONY (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(a) Convince (b) Endorse (a) creativity (b) friendship
(c) Dissuade (d) Fume (c) understanding (d) discord
165. Select the antonym of the given word. 178. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
FRAGILE (SSC MTS 2018) Jubiliant (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(a) Novel (b) Tiny (a) Happy (b) Delighted
(c) Tough (d) Gross (c) Depressed (d) Young
166. Select the correct antonym of the given word. 179. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
EXODUS (SSC CGL 2019-20) PREVAIL (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(a) Exit (b) Departure (a) succeed (b) prove
(c) Refund (d) Arrival (c) control (d) surrender
167. Select the correct antonym of the given word. 180. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
QUIESCENT (SSC CGL 2019-20) FEEBLE (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(a) Peaceful (b) Active (a) Strong (b) Frail
(c) Dejected (d) Indifferent (c) Weak (d) Soft
168. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word. 181. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
FERTILE (SSC MTS 2019-20) APPRISE (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(a) Barren (b) Civilized (a) notify (b) hide
(c) Sane (d) Tough (c) enlighten (d) inform
169. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. 182. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
RESERVED (SSC CHSL 2019-20) WARM (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(a) Cowardly (b) Friendly (a) cool (b) springy
(c) Forgiving (d) Reticent (c) spongy (d) hot
170. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. 183. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
ENIGMA (SSC CHSL 2019-20) FLAW (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(a) Make-believe (b) Clarity (a) perfection (b) defect
(c) Mystery (d) Charade (c) feature (d) weakness
171. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. 184. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
POMPOUS (SSC CGL 2020-21) FERTILE (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(a) Humble (b) Flaunting (a) fruitful (b) barren
(c) Boastful (d) Showy (c) strong (d) productive
172. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. 185. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
WIDESPREAD (SSC CGL 2020-21) FEEBLE (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(a) Limited (b) General (a) weak (b) fault
(c) Overall (d) Famous (c) strong (d) foible
173. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. 186. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
BUOYANT (SSC CHSL 2020-21) ALIVE (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(a) bouncy (b) lively (a) active (b) living
(c) weighted (d) enthusiastic (c) dead (d) life
174. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. 187. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the underlined
TRADITIONAL (SSC CHSL 2020-21) word.
(a) Earthly (b) Modern Their reverence reaches its zenith here at the birthplace of
(c) Customary (d) Conventional the country’s founder. (SSC MTS 2021-22)
(a) crest (b) Nadir
175. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word
STATIONARY (SSC MTS 2020-21) (c) horizon (d) pinnacle
(a) Moving (b) Square 188. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
(c) Still (d) Watch Refute (SSC MTS 2021-22)
176. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word (a) Endorse
SUFFICIENT (SSC MTS 2020-21) (b) Acknowledge
(a) Enough (b) Inadequate (c) Deny
(c) Precise (d) Intense (d) Dispute
Antonyms 21

189. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. 199. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
(SSC CGL 2021-22) PERCEIVE (SSC Stenographer 2022)
Modest (a) observe (b) neglect
(a) Glum (b) Sullen (c) realise (d) feel
(c) Unhappy (d) Conceited 200. Select the word that is OPPOSITE in meaning to the under-
190. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. lined word in the given sentence. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(SSC CGL 2021-22) People with generous hearts can see the intrinsic value in
Raze something which looks worthless to others.
(a) Build (b) Ease (a) Impertinent (b) Genuine
(c) Comfort (d) Ruin (c) Unrelated (d) Extraneous
191. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the word ‘SINKS’ 201. Select the word that is OPPOSITE in meaning to the
from the given sentence. underlined word in the given sentence.
Groups work together to create Christmas parade themes, She was reluctant to say anything to the members of the
which are then carried out in floats, musical groups, and board. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
strolling figures. (SSC CGL 2022) (a) Impatient (b) Hesitant
(a) Floats (b) Create (c) Eager (d) Annoyed
(c) Parade (d) Strolling 202. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
Emulate (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
192. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
(a) Respect (b) Neglect
(SSC CGL 2022) (c) Spoilt (d) Bash
Rebellion 203. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the underlined
(a) Uprising (b) Loyalty word in the given sentence. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
(c) Sedition (d) Allotment China expects to welcome back Indian students to resume
their studies in the country.
193. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
(a) cease (b) usher
(SSC CGL 2022) (c) presume (d) announce
Hospitality 204. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
(a) Complaint (b) Cordiality (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
(c) Coldness (d) Wrathful Dull
194. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. (a) Coloured (b) Bright
Renegade (SSC Stenographer 2022) (c) Clever (d) Youthful
(a) Follower (b) Leader 205. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the underlined
(c) Fugitive (d) Criminal word. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
195. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the underlined Spurious medicine can be fatal to the patient.
word. (SSC Stenographer 2022) (a) Genuine (b) Inferior
The heads turned to the back, where Dr. Pfizer, surrounded (c) Contemptuous (d) Virtuous
by the female troupe of dancers, beamed with exhilaration in 206. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the underlined
a dazzling ocean-green dress paired with stunning jewellery. word. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
The entire environment was very hostile towards us.
(a) pristine (b) lackluster
(a) Antagonistic (b) Favourable
(c) gingerly (d) luminous
(c) Accurate (d) Handy
196. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
207. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
Adipose (SSC Stenographer 2022)
Scanty (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
(a) Glutinous (b) Fat
(a) Expedient (b) Paltry
(c) Tissue (d) Stringy
(c) Nasty (d) Abundant
197. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM to replace the
208. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
italicised word. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
Asperity (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
Actions done with malice have no good intention.
(a) Virility (b) Civility
(a) animosity (b) enmity
(c) Acridity (d) Curiosity
(c) good will (d) rancour
209. Identify the correct antonym for the following word.
198. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
Rabble (SSC Stenographer 2022)
With her spry and athletic build, she won the race easily.
(a) Rubbish (b) Havoc (a) Agile (b) Lethargic
(c) Noise (d) Elite (c) Sleuth (d) Workaholic
 22 Antonyms

210. Read the given sentence and select the most appropriate 214. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
ANTONYM of the word ‘Deplete’ from the following Dwarf (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
options. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022) (a) Measurable (b) Medium
Depletion of old things has become a fancy business as it (c) Tiny (d) Giant
brings back old memories but at a high cost. 215. Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the given
(a) restore (b) old word. Elucidate (SSC CHSL 2023)
(c) high (d) fancy (a) Obfuscate (b) Dilate
211. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the underlined (c) Magnify (d) Outdate
word. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022) 216. Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word.
His explanation is always concise. TIMID (SSC CHSL 2023)
(a) Frank (b) Precise (a) SMELLY (b) COURAGEOUS
(c) Lengthy (d) Intelligent (c) LUCID (d) CAREFUL
212. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
217. Select the word that is opposite in meaning (ANTONYM)
Praise (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
to the word given below Timorous (SSC CHSL 2023)
(a) celebrate (b) Condemn
(c) hail (d) Secure (a) Brazen
213. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. (b) Scared
Detrimental (SSC CHSL 2021-22) (c) Gutless
(a) Baseless (b) Harmless (d) Reserved
(c) Senseless (d) Meaningless

HINTS & EXPLANATIONS

1. (b) The word Florid (Adjective) means : rosy; gaudy; 8. (a)The word Grotesque (Adjective) means : strange in a
ornated; red; having too much decoration or detail. way that is unpleasant: extremely ugly, unusual.
The word Pale (Adjective) means : light in colour; not Hence, the words grotesque and natural are antonyms.
strong or bright; having skin that is almost white 9. (a) The word Devious (Adjective) means : behaving in a
because of illness. dishonest way: a route that is not straight.
Hence, the words florid and pale are antonymous. Hence, the words devious and straight are antonymous.
2. (c) The word Verity (Noun) means : a belief or principle
10. (b) The word Evanescent (Adjective) means: disappearing
about life that is accepted as true; truth.
quickly from sight or memory.
Hence, the words verity and falsehood are antonymous.
3. (a) The word Perspicuity (Noun) means : clarity. Hence, the words evanescent and permanent are
The word Vagueness (Noun) means : no clarity in a antonymous.
person’s mind. 11. (a) The word Accord (Noun) means : a formal agreement
Hence, the words perspicuity and vagueness are between two organisations, countries, etc.
antonymous. Its antonym should be disagreement.
4. (c) The word Fervent (Adjective) means : having or 12. (c) The word Infirmity (Noun) means : weakness or illness
showing very strong and sincere feelings about over a long period.
something; ardent. Its antonym should be strength (Noun) which means :
The word Dispassionate (Adjective) means : not the quality of being physically strong, brave.
influenced by emotion; impartial. 13. (b) The word Feasible (Adjective) means : that is possible
Hence, the words fervent and dispassionate are and likely to be achieved; practicable.
antonymous. Its antonym should be impractical.
5. (d) The word Meandering (Adjective) means : not straight ; 14. (c) The word Meticulous (Adjective) means : paying careful
curved ; a course that does not follow a straight path. attention to every detail; fastidious; thorough.
Hence, the words meandering and straight are Careless in option (c) is the correct antonym.
antonymous. 15. (a) The word Synthetic (Adjective) means : artificial; man-
6. (a) The word Jettison (Verb) means : to throw something; made.
abandon; to reject an idea. Its antonym should be natural.
Hence, the words jettison and accept are antonymous.
16. (b) The word Liberty (Noun) means : freedom to live as
7. (d) The word Ameliorate (Verb) means : to make something
you choose without too many restrictions from
better.
government or authority.
Hence, the words ameliorate and worsen are antonyms.
Antonyms 23

The word Slavery (Noun) means : state of being a slave; The word Indigenous (Adjective) means : native;
a system of legally owning another person and forcing belonging to a particular place rather than coming to it
to work for them. from somewhere else.
17. (d) The word Disorderly (Adjective) means : showing lack 31. (b) The word Hasten (Verb) means : hurry; to say or do
of control; untidy; deranged. Its antonym should be something without delay. The word Dawdle (Verb)
arranged. means : to take a long time to do something or go
18. (c) The word Elevation (Noun) means to increase in the somewhere.
level of something. 32. (d) The word Spirited (Adjective) means : lively;
The word Depression (Noun) means : the state of feeling vigorous; enthusiastic.
very sad and without hope; part of a surface that is The word Dull (Adjective) means : sluggish;
lower than the parts around it.
depressed; tedious.
19. (a) The word Glossy (Adjective) means shining, smooth
33. (b) The word Forthright (Adjective) means : frank; direct
and shiny.
and honest in manner and speech; candid.
Its antonym should be dull.
The word Tricky (Adjective) means : clever but likely
20. (c) The word Appropriate (Adjective) means : suitable;
to trick you, deceive you, deceitful.
acceptable or correct for the particular circumstances.
34. (a) The word Antagonism (Noun) means : hostility;
Its antonym should be unsuitable.
21. (a) The word Impeccable (Adjective) means : without feelings of hatred and opposition; animosity; enmity.
mistakes or fault; perfect. The word Cordiality (Noun) means : in a pleasant and
Hence, its antonym should be faulty. friendly manner.
22. (a) The word Amalgamate (Verb) means : merge; to put 35. (b) The word Vanity (Noun) means : too much pride in
two or more things together so that they form one; your own appearance, abilities or achievements;
assimilate. arrogance. The word Humility (Noun) means : the
Its antonym should be separate which means : to divide quality of being humble.
into different parts or groups; to move apart. 36. (a) The word cultivated (Adjective) means: Educated.
23. (d) The word Zenith (Noun) means : the highest point; It’s antonym should be : Crude.
peak; the time when something is strongest and most 37. (d) The meaning of word Impertinent (Adjective) is : Ill
successful. mannered, disrespectful. It’s antonym should be :
The word Nadir (Noun) means : the worst moment of a courteous.
particular situation. 38. (b) The meaning of word Divulge (Verb) is : Reveal, make
24. (d) The word Influx (Noun) means : an arrival or entry off known. Its antonym should be : Dissemble. e.g., disguise
large number of people or things. or conceal
The word Exodus (Noun) means : a situation in which 39. (a) The meaning of word Appreciation (Noun) is :
many people leave a place at the same time. Thankfullness. It’s antonym should be : Aspersions,
25. (d) The word Orderly (Adjective) means : arranged or e.g, to criticise harshly.
organised in a neat, careful and logical way; tidy; 40. (c) The meaning of word Supple (Adjective) is : Flexible.
behaving well. It’s Antonym should be : Rigid.
The word Chaotic (Adjective) means : in a state of 41. (c) The meaning of Resourcefulness (Adj.) : ability to cope
complete confusion and lack of order. with difficult situation. The meaning of Incompetence
26. (d) The word Amenable (Adjective) means : responsible; (noun) : Lack of ability. “Incompetence” is opposite to
responsive; easy to control; willing. Its antonym given word.
should be unwilling. 42. (d) The meaning of Evolve (verb) : adj. develop, progress. The
27. (d) The word Conspicuous (Adjective) means : eminent, meaning of stop (noun) : end, halt. “Stop”is opposite
easy to see or notice; obvious. to given word.
The word Obscure (Adjective) means : difficult to 43. (c) The meaning of Antiquated (adj.) : obsolete, ancient.
understand; not well known; unknown. The meaning of Modern (adj.) new, up to date.
28. (a) The word Reproof (Noun) means : condemnation; “Modern” is opposite to given word.
blame, rebuke; disapproval. 44. (a) The meaning of Pathetic (adj.) : Sad, affecting. The
The word Approbation (Noun) means : approval or meaning of comic (noun) : funny. “Comic” is opposite
agreement. to given word.
45. (d) Fastidious (adj.) refers to give too much attention to
29. (c) The word Niggard (Adjective) means : mean; miserly; small details and wanting everything to be correct.
unwilling to be generous with money. Discourteous is rude and not considering other people's
The word Generous (Adiective) means : giving on feelings.
willing to give freely; lavish. 46. (b) Knack (Noun) means a clever way of doing something.
30. (d) The word Exotic (Adjective) means : from or in another 47. (d) Pernicious (adj.) means highly injurious or destructive.
country. 48. (d) Opulence (Noun) means wealthy.
 24 Antonyms

49. (c) Ambiguous means - not expressed or understood clearly. 74. (c) Predilection refers to-like a lot and. Aversion is the
Therefore the correct antonym is option (c), e.g., clear. correct antonym.
50. (b) Accolade (Noun) means, an expression of praise, 75. (b) The opposite of 'pompous' is 'humble'.
therefore the correct antonym is blame. 76. (c) The opposite of 'serene' is 'ruffled'.
51. (a) Wary (adj.) means, showing caution about possible 77. (b) Safe means free from harm. Its opposite is insecure.
dangers or problems. Rash is the correct antonym that 78. (d) Redundant means needless. Its opposite is required.
means, careless, impulsive. 79. (b) Fair means impartial. Its opposite is unjust.
52. (d) The word Cordial (Adjective) means : pleasant and 80. (b) Boisterous means noisy and mischievous. Its opposite
friendly. The word Hostile (Adjective) means : very is calm.
unfriendly or aggressive. 81. (a) Flimsy means insubstantial and easily damaged.
53. (b) The word Instinctive (Adjective) means : natural : based 82. (c) Equilibrium means balance. Its opposite is imbalance.
on instinct not thought or training. The word Rational 83. (d) Immortal means death-defying or endless. Its opposite
(Adjective) means : reasonable. is temporary.
54. (c) The word Venial (Adjective) : means pardonable; minor; 84. (b) Focus means the main or central point. Its opposite is
not very serious and hence to be forgiven. disperse that means spread across.
55. (d) The word Dwindle (Verb) means : to become gradually 85. (c) Veteran means experienced. Whereas, Novice means a
less or smaller; decrease; diminish. Option (d) 'increase' person just learning something.
is the correct antonym. 86. (d) Superfluous means unnecessary. Its opposite is necessary.
56. (a) The word Dormant (Adjective) means inactive. 87. (b) Gloomy means sad and dark. Whereas it's opposite is
Therefore, option (a) active is the right antonym. gay which means happy.
57. (a) The word Tranquility (Noun) means : peace, serenity. 88. (b) Start means to begin. Whereas it's opposite is break.
Disturbance = a situation in which people behave 89. (c) Elation means extreme happiness. Whereas its opposite
violently in a public place. is depression.
58. (c) Fabricate (verb) means construct something artificial 90. (a) Tremulous means unsteady; hence, steady is the opposite.
or untrue while demolish means destroy completely 91. (b) The opposite of fake is real.
which is just opposite to fabricate. 92. (a) Disconsolate means sad beyond comforting; incapable
59. (c) Gregarious (verb) denotes tending to associate with of being consoled; hence, Joyous is the opposite.
others of the same species and unsociable is the 93. (c) Vacillation means indecision in speech or action while
opposite. steadfastness means fixed or unchanging.
60. (d) Pragmatic (adj.) means concerned with practical matters 94. (b) Placid means calm and peaceful, with little movement
while 'idealistic' means that very good things can be or activity while stormy means characterized by violent
achieved, often when this does not seem likely to others. emotions or behaviour.
61. (a) Lunacy (Noun) refers to stupid behaviour while 'sanity' 95. (a) Effeminacy means the traits in a human boy or man that
is the state of having a healthy mind are more often associated with feminine nature,
62. (a) Obtuse means stupid or slow to understand behaviour, mannerisms, style or gender roles which are
63. (d) Inadverent (Adj.) refers to - not intentional; deliberately opposite to manliness.
is intentional. 96. (d) Unscrupulous means having or showing no moral
64. (a) The word Debacle (Noun) means : a situation that is a principles whereas conscientious means wishing to do
complete failure and causes embarrassment. one's work or duty well. Therefore, Conscientious is
65. (a) The word Abusive (Adjective) means: Using rude and the antonym of Unscrupulous .
offensive words. The word Laudatory (Adjective) 97. (d) Tranquil means free from disturbance. Therefore,
means : expressing praise or admiration. tranquil is the antonym of disturbed.
66. (b) The word Amorphous (Adjective) means : shapeless ; 98. (c) Enlarge means to make something larger or more
irregular, having no definite shape. extensive whereas condense means to make something
67. (c) The word Unitary (Adjective) means : single : forming more dense or compact. Therefore, enlarge is the
one unit. Multiple = many in number antonym of condense.
68. (a) The word Adulteration (Noun) means : making impure 99. (a) Obsequious means obedient or attentive to an excessive
by mixing; contamination. The word Purification or servile degree whereas domineering means trying to
(Noun) means : making something pure by removing control the behaviour of others.
substances that are dirty. harmful. 100. (c) Vacillate means to be indecisive whereas decide means
come or bring to a resolution. Therefore, Vacillate is the
69. (b) The opposite of 'insipid' is 'colourful'. The word
antonym of decide.
'insipid' means dull, boring or colourless.
101. (b) ‘Bizarre’ means something very strange or unusual.
70. (b) The opposite of 'relinquish' is 'continue'. Relinquish Whereas ‘Ordinary’ refers to things with distinctive
means to 'give up'. features. Therefore, Ordinary is the antonym of ‘Bizarre’.
71. (b) Indolent means lazy. 102. (b) ‘Guilty’ means responsible for a specified wrong doing.
72. (b) Disorganised means muddled, jumbled, confused while Whereas, ‘innocent’ means not guilty of a crime or
coherent means clear. offence. Therefore, ‘innocent’ is the antonym of ‘guilty’.
73. (b) Humane means gentle, benevolent, civilised; brutal is 103. (c) ‘Accusation’ means a charge or claim that someone
cruel and violent. has done something wrong. Whereas, ‘Exculpation’
Antonyms 25

means to clear of guilt or blame. Therefore, 131. (b) Meretricious means superficial, hence, natural will be
‘Exculpation’ is the antonym of ‘Accusation’. its antonyms.
104. (d) ‘Appoint’ means to assign a job or role to some one. 132. (a) Nebulous means indefinite, hence, its opposite will be
Whereas, ‘Dismiss’ means to end the employment or definite.
service of someone or something. Therefore, ‘Dismiss’ 133. (d) 'Ensconce' means to conceal, hence unveil is the correct
is the antonym of ‘Appoint’. opposite word.
105. (a) Illicit means something which is forbidden by law. 134. (c) 'Lugubrious' means looking sad and dismal, while
Whereas legal means relating to the law. Therefore optimistic means cheerful and positive hence, it is the
legal is the antonym of a Illicit. correct antonym.
106. (a) ‘Demand’ means a strong need for something. Whereas 135. (d) ‘Amenable’ means ‘easy to control’ or some one who
‘Supply’ means to make something needed available to can be easily influenced. Options (a), (b) and (c) are
someone. Therefore ‘supply’ is the correct antonym of synonyms of the word, hence are incorrect. Option (d)
‘demand’. means opposite of the word ‘amenable’, hence, it is
107. (b) ‘Descent’ means an act of moving downwards. the right answer.
Whereas ‘ascent’ means the act of climbing or moving 136. (c) ‘To muster’ means to gather or aggregate things
upwards. Therefore, ‘ascent’ is the antonym of whereas ‘to estrange’ means to isolate or alienate.
‘descent’. 137. (d) Bucolic means relating to the pleasant aspects of the
108. (c) ‘Notorious’ means someone known for some bad countryside and country life while fierce means having
quality. ‘Honourable’ means someone honest and fair, or displaying a violent or ferocious aggressiveness.
or deserving praise and respect. Therefore, 138. (a) Compendium means a collection of concise but detailed
‘Honourable’ is the antonym of ‘notorious’. information about a particular subject while expansion
109. (c) Captivity refers to imprisoned therefore ‘freedom’ is means the action of becoming larger or more extensive.
right antonym. 139. (a) Chastise means to criticize someone severely while
110. (b) Contemplative means thoughtful and reflective etc. praise means express warm approval or admiration of.
111. (b) Inclement means bitter, nasty and harsh etc. whereas, 140. (b) Daunt means to make someone feel slightly frightened
mild means not severe harsh. or worried about their ability to achieve while encourage
112. (a) Ostracize means boycott, exile etc, whereas, patronize means to give support.
means condescend. 141. (c) Oblivious means not aware of or concerned about what
113. (c) ‘Unapproachable’ means inaccessible. is happening around one while conscious means aware
114. (c) ‘Abstain’ means to hold back from doing or refrain on of and responding to one's surroundings.
the otherhand, ‘indulge’ means to allow. 142. (a) Confine means keep or restrict someone or something
115. (d) ‘Misanthropist’ means a person who dislikes within certain limits. Thus, its opposite is permit. which
humankind and avoids human society, whereas means officially allow (someone) to do something.
‘philanthropist’ is the one who helps others and 143. (b) Defeat means to win against someone in a fight, war, or
promote others, especially by donation of money. competition. The opposite is attainment which means
116. (c) Fortify means to support, whereas undermine is erode to accomplish something.
or do not support. 144. (b) Fervent means having or displaying a passionate
117. (d) The opposite of formal is informal. intensity. Cold is its opposite meaning lacking affection
118. (c) ‘Thorough’ means detailed whereas cursory means in or warmth of feeling; unemotional.
a casual or hasty manner. 145. (c) Imitation means a thing intended to simulate or copy
119. (d) ‘Nasty’ means awful and unpleasant. something else. Its opposite is genuine.
120. (d) Exaggerate means to overstate or emphasize so, 146. (b) Immense means extremely large or great. Its opposite
understate which means minimize or undervalue is the is tiny.
correct antonym. 147. (d) Scatter means to disperse hence, collect is its antonym.
121. (b) Abrupt means rude or rough in manner. 148. (d) Peak means the point of highest activity, quality, or
122. (b) The opposite of inflammable is non-flammable. achievement. Its opposite is bottom.
123. (d) Hasty means without much thought whereas, cautious 149. (a) Despair means the complete loss or absence of hope.
means careful, watchful. Its opposite is hope.
124. (c) The opposite of attachment is detachment. 150. (d) ‘Amass’ means ‘to gather together or accumulate (a large
125. (a) Uniform means consistent which is the opposite of variable. amount or number of material or thing) over a period of
126. (b) Obscure means unclear, dulbious whereas obvious time’. So, ‘distribute’ will be its correct antonym.
means clear, evident. 151. (c) Porous means ‘(of a rock or other material) having minute
interstices through which liquid or air may pass’.
127. (d) 'Irk' means to irritate some one, hence, its opposite
Therefore, ‘impermeable’ which means ‘not allowing fluid
will be to please.
to pass through’ will be the correct antonym of ‘porous’.
128. (c) Grotesque means distorted and unnatural in shape or 152. (a) The antonym of the adjective 'progressive' means
size, hence, its antonym will be 'plain'. 'favouring or promoting progress' while 'conservative'
129. (c) 'Gregarious means' sociable, while 'introvert' means solitary. means 'resistant to change'.
130. (c) 'Tremulous' means shaking or quivering slightly while 153. (c) The most appropriate antonym of the word 'public' is
'stable' means firmly fixed. 'private'. Other words are not relevant.
 26 Antonyms

154. (d) 180. (a) The opposite of feeble is strong. As feeble means
155. (b) Shallow means closer the surface. So, deep is its lacking physical strength.
opposite. 181. (b) Apprise means to inform or tell and so its opposite is hide.
156. (d) 182. (a) The opposite of warm is cool.
157. (b) Vacate means to impty vacate means to empty 183. (a) The opposite of flaw is perfection.
something. Its opposite ‘occupy’. 184. (b) The opposite of fertile is barren.
158. (d) The word ambiguous means 'not clear or decided'. 185. (c) feeble means to lack physical strength and its opposite
159. (d) Hostile means ' showing or feeling opposition or dislike; is strong.
unfriendly'. 186. (c) The opposite of alive is dead.
160. (a) ‘Assemble’ means to fall in; ‘Disperse’ means to scatter
187. (b) Zenith means: Top, pinnacle and apogee.
or distribute’.
Nadir means: the lowest point, Rock-bottom etc.
161. (a) Morose means sullen and ill-tempered.
188. (a) Refute means: Demolish and debunk.
162. (c) Extravagent means lacking restraint in spending money
Endorse means: validate.
or using resources. Thrifty means using money or other
resources carefully and not wastefully. 189. (d) “conceited” is the appropriate antonym of the given
163. (b) Prondage means slavery. Its opposite is liberty. word; it means- excessively proud of oneself; vain
164. (c) Here, the words 'convince' and 'endorse' are similar to Glum- looking or feeling dejected; morose.
'persuade' (fume - amount of vapour/smoke) is not Sullen- bad-tempered and sulky.
related so, 'dissuade' is the correct option. Modest- unassuming in the estimation of one’s abilities
165. (c) The word 'Fragile' means 'that which breaks easily get or achievements.
damaged. 190 (a) “build” is opposite in meaning to the given word.
So, the word (Tough means 'hard or difficult') is the Ease- absence of difficulty or effort.
correct option. Ruin- the physical destruction or disintegration of something
166. (d) Arrival or the state of disintegrating or being destroyed.
Exodus means a mass departure of people; leaving a Raze- to destroy to the ground.
place. Option (a) and (b) are nearly similar to the given 191. (a) The opposite of ‘Sinks’ is ‘Floats’.
word. Option (c) is irrelevant here. Hence, option (d) is 192 (b) Antonym of ‘Rebellion’ is ‘Loyalty’.
the right antonym. Rebellion means – opposition to one in authority or
167. (b) Quiescent means in a state or period of inactivity or dominance.
dormancy; passivity. 193. (c) Antonym of ‘Hospitality’ is ‘Coldness’.
Hence, option (b) is the right antonym. Hospitality means –friendly behaviour
168. (a) The opposite of fertile is barren. 194. (a) Antonym means opposite. The word ‘renegade’ refers
169. (b) The opposite of reserved is friendly. to a person who betrays trust or refuses to follow the
170. (b) Enigma means difficult to understand and its opposite rules and ideologies set by the organization. So, the
is clarity.
opposite of ‘renegade’ will be ‘follower’.
171. (a) The word pompous means self importance. It is
195. (b) Antonym of a word is the opposite of that word.
characterized by showing that you think you are better
‘Dazzling’means shining, bright, luminous or lustrous.
or more important than other people. The word humble
So, the opposite of dazzling is ‘lacklustre’ i.e. something
means having or showing a modest or low estimate of
one's importance. And therefore option number one - that lacks shine.
humble becomes the opposite of pompous. Humble 196. (d) ‘Adipose’ refers to the storage of fat, like the adipose
172. (a) Widespread means spread all over, far-reaching etc. and tissue in our body whose function is to store fat. The
its opposite thus is limited-whichis few/little in quantity. opposite of such a word will be ‘stringy’, a word that
173. (c) Buoyant means (of a liquid or gas) able to keep relates to thinness and fibrous nature of an element.
something afloat. For example: buoyant water. The 197. (c) Malice means a bad intention. The opposite of malice
opposite of this is weighted. is good will. Note, all other words in the list have
174. (b) The opposite of traditional is modern. negative meaning like malice. Thus, option (c) is the
175. (a) Stationary means fixed so the opposite of it is moving. correct answer.
176. (b) Sufficient means adequate and its opposite is inadequate. 198. (d) The term ‘rabble’ refers to a crowd that is noisy and
177. (d) The opposite of harmony is discord which means lack disorderly. From the given list of options, the
of harmony or disagreement. appropriate antonym for rabble is ‘elite’.
178. (c) Jubilant means great happiness so its opposite is 199. (b) The word ‘perceive’ means ‘to see’. The appropriate
depressed. antonym of perceive is ‘neglect’ because other words
179. (d) 'prevail'-prove more powerful or superior, so its on the list have similar meaning to ‘perceive’.
opposite is surrender.
Antonyms 27

200. (d) The meaning of the word ‘intrinsic’ means something 209. (b) ‘Spry’ means ‘lively or active’. The antonym of ‘spry’
that is inherent or within. The correct opposite of the is ‘lethargic’ which means ‘lacking energy and
word is ‘extraneous’ which means something that is enthusiasm’.
external or on the exterior.
210. (a) The word ‘depletion’ in the given context means
201. (c) The term ‘reluctant’ means ‘unwilling’. From the given
list of options, the correct opposite of the word ‘exhaustion’. Thus, its opposite will be ‘to restore or
‘reluctant’ is ‘eager’ which implies willingness and regain’.
curiosity. 211. (c) The word ‘concise’ means short and precise. The
202. (b) The word ‘emulate’ means ‘to imitate by paying opposite of ‘concise’ is ‘lengthy’.
attention’. It also means ‘to excel’ by focussing well. 212. (b) Antonyms of praise are: Criticize and condemn.
The opposite of ‘emulate’, therefore is ‘neglect’. 213. (b) Detrimental means: harmful. Its antonym will be:
203. (a) The word ‘resume’ means ‘to start again’. The antonym harmless, benign and beneficial.
of ‘resume’ is ‘cease’ which means ‘to stop’. 214. (d) Dwarf means: miniature, small-scale etc. Its antonyms:
204. (b) The opposite of the word ‘dull’ is ‘bright’. Colossal, mammoth, giant and jumbo.
205. (a) The word ‘spurious’ means ‘fake or false’. The correct 215. (a) Elucidate implies explain, illuminate and clarify its
antonym will be obfuscate, jumble and befog.
opposite of the word is ‘genuine’.
216. (b) The antonyms of timid will be courageous, bold and
206. (b) ‘Hostile’ means ‘unkind’ or ‘unfavourable’. The brave.
opposite of ‘hostile’ is ‘favourable’. 217. (a) Timorous means fearful and apprehensive. Its
207. (d) ‘Scanty’ means less. The opposite of the word ‘scanty’ antonyms will be bold, brazen and forthcoming.
is ‘abundant’.
208. (b) The word ‘asperity’ means ‘harshness of tone or
manners’. The opposite of ‘asperity’ is ‘civility’ which
means implies politeness and good conduct.
 28 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

Fill in the Blanks

Chapter
3 & Cloze Test
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 1-5) : In the following questions, sentences 11. The housewife _______ the cakes burning, and ran to switch
are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s). off the oven.
Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the (a) smell (b) smells
correct alternative out of the four. (c) smelt (d) smelling
12. _______ an old legend, King Shirham lived in India.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2010) (a) In the event of (b) Due to
1. The hotel was not too expensive,_______ (c) According to (d) In reference to
(a) was it ? (b) wasn't it ? 13. _______ you leave now, you will be late.
(c) is it ? (d) isn't it ?
(a) Until (b) Till
2. Like humans, zoo animals must have a dentist _____ their
teeth. (c) Unless (d) Although
(a) fill (b) filled 14. The _______ were arrested for illegally hunting the bears.
(c) filling (d) to be filled (a) poachers (b) rangers
3. It was very kind of you to do the washing-up, but you (c) soldiers (d) villagers
______ it. 15. If you had followed the rules, you _______ disqualified.
(a) didn't have to do (b) hadn't to do (a) will not be
(c) mightn't have done (d) mustn't have done (b) would not be
4. He went _____ sea alone. (c) will not have been
(a) in (b) to (c) into (d) on (d) would not have been
5. The _____ of our civilization from an agricultural society to
today's complex industrial world was accompanied by war. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 16-20) : In the following questions, sentences
(a) adjustment (b) migration are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s).
(c) route (d) metamorphosis Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 6-10) : In the following questions, sentences correct alternative out of the four.
are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s).
Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2011)
correct alternative out of the four. 16. The company let me _______ time off work.
(a) take
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2010)
6. The court ________ cognizance of the criminal's words. (b) taking
(a) took (b) made (c) to take
(c) gave (d) allowed (d) took
7. ________ wins this civil war there will be little rejoicing at 17. I assume _______ with me.
the victory. (a) every one agreeing
(a) Whichever (b) Whoever (b) that every one agrees
(c) Whatever (d) Wherever (c) every one to agree
8. As he got older his belief in these principles did not (d) that every one to agree
________. 18. _______ the rain forests is very important, if we do not want
(a) wither (b) shake the flora and fauna found there to become extinct.
(c) waver (d) dither (a) Reserving
9. Everyone in this world is accountable to God ___ his actions.
(b) Destroying
(a) about (b) for
(c) to (d) over (c) Preserving
10. Your father used to be the principal of this college______? (d) Maintaining
(a) did he ? (b) does he ? 19. If I had helped him, he _______.
(c) didn't he ? (d) doesn't he ? (a) will not be drowned
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 11-15) : In the following questions, sentences (b) would not be drowned
are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word. (c) will not have drowned
Our alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the (d) would not have drowned
correct alternative out of the four. 20. When will you head _______ your assignment?
(a) in (b) back
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2011) (c) down (d) into
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 29

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 21–30) : In the following questions, some of 35. (a) solution (b) novel
the words have been left out. First read the passage over and try (c) book (d) answer
to understand what it is about. Then fill in the blanks with the 36. (a) read (b) think
(c) open (d) guess
help of the alternatives given.
37. (a) now (b) time
Passage (Q no. 21–30) (c) then (d) ago
Almost every full moon night, the officials in Andaman and Nicobar 38. (a) Moon (b) time
Islands take part in a cautious ritual. The tribesmen watch from a (c) Earth (d) Mars
safe distance as the officials 21 the island in a boat 22 gifts for 39. (a) part (b) division
them. The islanders come 23 hesitantly only after the officials (c) opening (d) centre
24 dumbed the coconuts brought 25 them onto the beach and 40. (a) end (b) begin
begin 26 away from their small island. On some nights the (c) think (d) work
tribals even 27 up enough courage to swim upto a few feet 28
from the boat. The officials maintain that they do 29 want to DIRECTIONS (Qs. 41- 45) : In the following questions, sentences
interfere with the way of life of the tribals. The island 30 heavily are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s).
on the mainland for most goods. (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2011) Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the
21. (a) approach (b) depart correct alternative out of the four as your answer.
(c) present (d) absent (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012)
22. (a) coming (b) leaving 41. The Union Budget is likely to be presented on February 26,
(c) carrying (d) relieving two days ahead of the ___________ date.
23. (a) forward (b) backward (a) critical (b) conventional
(c) sides (d) upward (c) suitable (d) convenient
24. (a) has (b) have 42. I am sorry ___________ the mistake.
(c) had (d) be (a) from (b) with
25. (a) by (b) to (c) for (d) at
(c) in (d) for 43. He ___________ her that she would pass.
26. (a) watching (b) seeing (a) insured (b) ensured
(c) sailing (d) stopping (c) assumed (d) assured
27. (a) leave (b) muster 44. Your father ___________ worry. I'm a very careful driver.
(c) come (d) present (a) needn't (b) none
28. (a) correctly (b) distantly (c) can't (d) doesn't
(c) near (d) away 45. The ___________ chosen for construction of the building
29. (a) no (b) neither is in the heart of the city.
(c) not (d) nor (a) cite (b) slight
30. (a) spy (b) rely (c) sight (d) site
(c) occupy (d) reply
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 46-50) : In the following questions, sentences
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 31-40) : In the following passage, some of are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s).
the words have been left out. First, read the passage over and try Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the
to understand what it is about. Then fill in the blanks with the correct alternative.
help of the alternatives given.
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012)
PASSAGE (Q.Nos. 31–40) 46. The ladies black purse, which is on sale has a beautiful
The Solar System has been a complicated wonder for the ________ carved on it.
astronomers. This is a (31) to which we may never have the exact (a) motif (b) patch
answer. Man has wondered (32) the age of the Earth (33) ancient (c) layout (d) schematic
times. There were all kinds of (34) that seemed to have the (35). 47. Who is the person you ________ at the cinema last night?
But man could not begin to (36) about the question scientifically (a) were recognising (b) recognised
until about 400 years (37). When it was proved that the (38) (c) have recognised (d) had recognised
revolved round the Sun and the Earth was a (39) of our Solar 48. As you sow ________ shall you reap.
System, then scientists knew where to (40). (a) when (b) as
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2011) (c) like (d) s o
31. (a) problem (b) question 49. He complimented her ________ new dress.
(c) matter (d) query (a) for (b) of
32. (a) around (b) out (c) on (d) about
(c) about (d) on 50. It took him a long time ________ the candidate’s application.
33. (a) since (b) during (a) to considering
(c) around (d) from (b) to consider and weigh
34. (a) ideas (b) opinions (c) considering weighing
(c) stories (d) matters (d) to consider and to weigh
 30 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 51-55) : In the following questions, sentences 63. He is a popular teacher. He seems to be ______ for that
are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s). profession.
Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the (a) cut down (b) cut off
correct alternative out of the four as your answer. (c) cut in (d) cut out
64. He was ______ pertaining his innocence.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012) (a) stridently (b) harshly
51. I _________ lunch one hour ago. (c) confidently (d) quickly
(a) have had (b) had had 65. If you were found guilty of exceeding the speed limit, you
(c) have (d) had ______ to pay a fine.
52. He thought that my car _________ for sale. (a) would have (b) would had
(a) is (b) was (c) will have (d) have
(c) has been (d) will be
53. He tried to prevent me_______doing my duty. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 66-70) : In the following questions, sentences
(a) against (b) at are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s).
(c) with (d) from Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the correct
54. To the dismay of the student body, the class president was alternative out of the four:
____________ berated by the principal at the school (SSC CHSL 2012)
assembly. 66. Let us quickly __________.
(a) ignominiously (b) privately
(a) muddle (b) huddle
(c) magnanimously (d) fortuitously
55. I would apologize if I ________ you. (c) hurdle (d) puddle
(a) am (b) was 67. Rajesh’s car wasn’t __________ Ramesh’s, so we were too
(c) have been (d) were exhausted by the time we reached home.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 56-60) : In the following questions, sentences (a) such comfortable (b) as comfortable as
are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s). (c) comfortable enough (d) so comfortable that
Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the correct 68. I don’t suppose that Pramod will be elected __________
alternative out of the four. how hard he struggles as he is not completely supported by
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012) the committee.
56. ______________ pollution control measures are expensive, (a) although (b) seeing as
many industries hesitate to adopt them.
(c) no matter (d) however
(a) Although (b) However
(c) Because (d) Despite 69. Regular exercise is conducive__________ heath.
57. It is not ______________ for a man to be confined to the (a) in (b) to
pursuit of wealth. (c) for (d) of
(a) healthy (b) easy 70. Can you please __________ my website just before I
(c) possible (d) common publish it ?
58. ______________ his being innocent of the crime, the judge (a) find out (b) go through
sentenced him to one year imprisonment.
(a) In spite of (b) In case of (c) set out (d) look up
(c) On account of (d) In the event of DIRECTIONS (Qs. 71-80) : In the following passage, some of
59. It is a story of two men and a batch of _____ armoured cars. the words have been left out. First, read the passage over and try
(a) deceased (b) diseased to understand what it is about. Then fill in the blanks with the
(c) decrepit (d) defeated help of the alternatives given.
60. Although there is _________ gunfire, there is no stiff
resistance to the revolutionary army. Growing urbanization and literacy, especially female education,
(a) bitter (b) meagre will no doubt change the plight of women in India. But the 71
(c) continuous (d) sporadic will be slow and painful. Are we 72 to wait until this happens
while more and more girls meet their 73 end? Not if we lay
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 61-65) : In the following questions, sentences claim to an India that is 74 and aspires to attain superpower
are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word (s). status. there is only one quick 75 , which is not to wait for
Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the correct 76 to change, but to compel the police force to 77 their
alternative out of the four. attitude. The attitude of the police force will become 78 if
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2012) there is a big stick poised to hit them. They will be more 79
61. He will dispense ______ your services. to women victims and keener to catch the 80 if they knew
(a) of (b) off that they themselves will be punished or sacked. In an insensible
(c) on (d) with society, fear is the only key. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2012)
62. I have given her ______ .
(a) a work (b) some works 71. (a) method (b) manner
(c) a piece of work (d) many works (c) process (d) section
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 31
72. (a) keen (b) prepared PASSAGE - II
(c) made (d) asked Auctions are public 91 of goods, conducted by an
73. (a) tragic (b) lethal . 92 auctioneer. He encourages buyers to 93 higher
(c) systematic (d) methodical prices and finally names the 94 bidder as the buyer of the
74. (a) growing (b) shining goods. This is called ‘knocking down’ the goods, for when the
(c) competing (d) plodding bidding ends the auctioneer 95 a small hammer on a table
75. (a) decision (b) thought in front of him.
(c) idea (d) solution 91. (a) sale (b) marketing
76. (a) attitudes (b) nature (c) promotion (d) viewing
(c) behaviour (d) opinions 92. (a) authoritative (b) allowed
77. (a) alter (b) reverse (c) authentic (d) approved
(c) change (d) cleanse
93. (a) bid (b) buy
78. (a) democratic (b) lenient
(c) liberal (d) easy (c) get (d) bargain
79. (a) affectionate (b) considerate 94. (a) smartest (b) highest
(c) attentive (d) concerned (c) biggest (d) strongest
80. (a) culprits (b) rowdies 95. (a) bangs (b) thrashes
(c) hooligans (d) law-breakers (c) smashes (d) hits
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 81-95) : You have following two brief passages DIRECTIONS (Qs. 96-100) : In the following questions, sentences
with 10 questions in Passage-I and 5 questions in passage-II. are given with blanks to be filled with an appropriate word(s).
Read the passages carefully and fill up the blanks with suitable
words out of the four alternatives given. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
96. He was assured by his friends _________ every type of
PASSAGE - I help in an emergency.
Parents tend to spoil their own children either by overindulgence (a) about (b) by
or by deprivation. Childhood should be the time for 81 from (c) of (d) with
primary selfishness to sharing, for learning to 82 with deprivation 97. He was not a man _________ intelligence.
and disappointment and learning to 83 failure, since breaking (a) empty of (b) lacking of
a toy and forgetting a homework assignment (c) devoid of (d) absent of
are 84 serious than breaking a marriage or forgetting to 98. The work _________, he left his office.
prepare for career advancement. But 85 deprivation, as is
(a) having been over
common in 86 families, leaves many children 87 the
(b) having completed
stage of personal gratification. They lack resources for developing
(c) having been completed
a sense of 88 . towards others and a wish to care for
them. And children 89 be poor to be underprivileged. (d) on being finished
The 90 are also deprived, cheated out of learning how to 99. Our monthly expenditure _________ by five hundred
face life. (SSC CHSL 2012) rupees when we decided to buy milk from the milkman.
81. (a) changing (b) turning (a) grew up (b) shot up
(c) shifting (d) removing (c) got up (d) lifted up
82. (a) cope up (b) adjust 100. _________ to people looked well enough, but when one
(c) fight (d) cope looked more closely one saw that their faces were filled with
83. (a) overcome (b) eliminate despair.
(c) remove (d) forget (a) At first sight
84. (a) far better (b) far less (b) At first looking
(c) far worse (d) far more (c) At first observation
85. (a) much (b) exhaustive (d) On first sight
(c) excessive (d) every DIRECTIONS (Qs. 101-105) : In the following questions, sentences
86. (a) undernourished (b) uncoordinated are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s).
(c) uncooperative (d) underprivileged Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the correct
87. (a) stuck in (b) stuck on alternative out of the four.
(c) stuck about (d) stick in
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2013)
88. (a) gratitude (b) responsibility
101. Google is one of the most popular search engines, it is
(c) concern (d) friendship ________ by the internet users.
89. (a) would not (b) should not (a) utilized
(c) need not (d) had not (b) effected
90. (a) over-confident (d) over-cautious (c) examined
(c) over-enthusiastic (d) over-indulged (d) flabbergasted
 32 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

102. Raj was tired of Puja’s ________ approach, so he asked her 114. Satyajitray’s films ________ all barriers of caste, creed and
to make her final decision by that evening. religion. They are universal.
(a) silly-willy (b) dilly-dally (a) transcend (b) transcends
(c) wasting (d) dilly-nally (c) trancend (d) transend
103. Ria is ________ at speaking languages. It is difficult to 115. I could hardly recognize him ________ I saw him.
_______ only one puppy for animal shelter. (a) after (b) but
(a) adept, adapt (b) adapt, adapt (c) and (d) when
(c) adept, adopt (d) adapt, adopt DIRECTIONS (Qs. 116–120): In the following questions, sentences
104. School days are considered to be the best years of your life. are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate and suitable
When my ________ year in school began, I began to think word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose
of those past enjoyable days and of my future also. the correct alternative out of the four.
(a) penultimate (b) absolute
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
(c) integral (d) termination
116. Student-parking should be __________; students should
105. Being ________, the judge gave a favourable verdict. not be charged to buy parking stickers.
(a) sagacious (b) pugnacious (a) fined (b) free
(c) malicious (d) tenacious (c) costly (d) cheap
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 106-110) : In these questions, sentences are 117. If you have roses growing in your garden, you can make a
given with blanks to be filled with an appropriate word(s). Four lovely __________ of flowers at home.
alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the correct (a) bouqutte (b) bucquete
alternative out of the four. (c) bouquete (d) bouquet
118. The __________ of the middle school is a woman of
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) __________.
106. All is not well _______ the automobile sector. (a) Principles, Principal
(a) of (b) down (b) Principals, Principal
(c) in (d) to (c) Principal, Principle
107. Many premier educational institutions come forward to have (d) Principle, Principals
a _______ with flourshing industries. 119. With the changing times, most of the students have become
(a) tie-down (b) tie-up business-like they are __________ and want to take only
those courses which they find rewarding.
(c) tie-in (d) tie-on
(a) idealistic (b) pragmatic
108. He slipped _______ his old ways and started drinking again. (c) enthusiastic (d) partial
(a) into (b) off 120. 1. John's at __________ institute studying French.
(c) by (d) in 2. They're building __________ school at the end of our
109. They reached the railway station before the train street.
__________ . 3. Do they live in __________ United Kingdom or
(a) had left (b) had been left somewhere else?
(c) left (d) was leaving (a) a, the, an (b) the, a, an
110. The Information and Communication Technology has _____ (c) an, a, the (d) the, an, a
age and employes very highly paid technocrats.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 121-125) : In the following questions,
(a) come of (b) come upon sentences are given with blanks to be filled with an appropriate
(c) come out of (d) come through word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 111-115) : In the following questions, Choose the correct alternative out of the four as your answer.
sentences are given with blanks to be filled with an appropriate (SSC Sub. Ins. 2013)
word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. 121. There are not solitary, free-living creatures ; every form of
Choose the correct alternative out of the four and indicate it. life is ______ other forms.
(a) dependent on
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
(b) parallel to
111. Mr. Murugan has been in this college ________ 2010.
(c) overshadowed by
(a) for (b) since
(d) segregated from
(c) after (d) before
122. I'll take ______now as I have another appointment some
112. We attended a ________ discourse. where else.
(a) spiritual (b) spirituous (a) departure (b) your leave
(c) spirituality (d) spiritually (c) permission (d) leave from work
113. The valley is known for its ________ growth of vegetation. 123. A garden knife is ______used for right pruning.
(a) luxurious (b) luxury (a) generally (b) compulsorily
(c) luxuriant (d) luxuriously (c) systematically (d) daily
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 33

124. Serious threat to our ecology and environment can be 137. Sheila gained an advantage __________ me.
______ with organic cultivation. (a) upon (b) from
(a) hastened (b) impeded (c) on (d) over
(c) aggravated (d) combated 138. Take this medicine regularly and you will get rid __________
125. 'My India' by Corbett deals ______ the author's familiarity this disease.
with and love of India. (a) at (b) from
(a) in (b) of (c) of (d) over
(c) at (d) with 139. Statistics __________ always my worst subject.
(a) are (b) were
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 126-130) : In the following questions, sentences (c) is (d) have
are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s). 140. When she retired, she handed __________ the charge to
Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the correct the Vice-President.
alternative out of the four. (a) over (b) out
(SSC CHSL 2013) (c) across (d) off
126. The human mind seems to have built-in ________against
original thought. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 141-145) : In the following passage, some of
(a) prejudices (b) ideas the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and
(c) interests (d) safeguards choose the correct answer to each question out of the four
127. A child is the future of a family _________ nation. alternatives and fill in the blanks.
(a) just as (b) as a One fine morning, a 141 man knocked at the doors of the home for
(c) like a (d) as well as of a the aged run by nuns. He told the nun in charge that as he was
128. If strict security measures were taken, the tragedy might 142 to Delhi, he wanted to leave his servant-maid to the 143 of the
have been ________ nuns. He assured the nun of sending some money every month
(a) restrained (b) averted 144 she was an orphan. The nun 145 her saying that she had got
(c) removed (d) controlled an excellen master. (SSC CHSL 2013)
129. The deceased left _______ children. 141. (a) gentle (b) bad
(a) behind (b) for (c) nice (d) good
(c) with (d) by 142. (a) moved (b) shifted
130. The statue _________ a global symbol of freedom (c) changed (d) transferred
(a) stands against (b) stands to 143. (a) care (b) home
(c) stands for (d) stands as (c) custody (d) protection
144. (a) because (b) and
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 131-140) : In the following questions, (c) though (d) if
sentences are given with blanks to be filled with an appropriate 145. (a) loved (b) praised
word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. (c) consoled (d) condoled
Choose the correct alternative out of the four.
(SSC Multitasking 2013) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 146-150): In the following questions, sentences
131. The new government took __________ last year. are given with blanks to be field in with an appropriate word(s).
(a) out (b) after Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the correct
(c) over (d) upon alternative out of the four.
132. Mohan’s career has taken some __________ twists and (SSC CGL 2014)
turns. 146. The student was punished for his _____.
(a) incentive (b) interesting (a) impudence (b) prudence
(c) interactive (d) intuitive (c) modesty (d) elemency
133. The bus __________ fifty passengers fell __________ the 147. My father was too _____ to push the heavy door.
river. (a) faint (b) feeble
(a) with; into (b) for; upon (c) fragile (d) faltering
(c) over; on (d) of; at 148. The flood damaged the books so much that it was impossible
134. It is raining __________ . Do not go out. to _____ them.
(a) heavily (b) fast (a) retrieve (b) retrace
(c) soundly (d) strongly (c) retract (d) retreat
135. She tries to adjust __________ her relations. 149. His bungalow went through a make _____.
(a) for (b) at (a) up (b) out
(c) s o (d) with (c) over (d) for
136. She was remarkably __________ in singing and dancing. 150. This auspicious beginning _____ well for a successful
(a) accomplished completion of our project.
(b) conducive (a) attunes (b) argues
(c) fluctuating (c) augurs (d) answers
(d) cooperative
 34 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 151-155) : In the following questions below, 163. Besides being reputed, he is famous for his ____________.
sentences are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate (a) humanities (b) hostility
word (s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose (c) humility (d) humiliation
164. There was a queue of people in the rain, patiently waiting to
the correct alternative out of the four.
get _____________ the coach.
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2014) (a) at (b) on
151. China is a big country, in area it is bigger than any other (c) onto (d) in
country _________ Russia. 165. I _____________ a terrible dream last night.
(a) accept (b) except (a) had (b) got
(c) expect (d) access (c) saw (d) have
152. The masks worn by the men helped them _______their 166. Mr. Ahamad went _____________ a very tough time, when
identity. he incurred a loss in his business.
(a) conceal (b) congeal (a) about (b) off
(c) masquerade (d) cheat (c) through (d) over
153. On the ______ occasion of Laxmi Puja, the Mathurs bought 167. The lawyer advised the convict not to _____________
a new car. anything.
(a) officious (b) auspicious (a) hold up (b) hold over
(c) fortuitous (d) prosperous (c) hold back (d) hold in
154. Precautions are to be taken with any one who seems ______. 168. Hospital services across the capital _____________ for
(a) contagious (b) infectious three hours due to the strike.
(c) diseased (d) defiled (a) were disrupted (b) had been disrupted
155. The treasure was hidden ______ a big shore. (c) are disrupted (d) have disrupted
(a) on (b) underneath 169. The School Annual Sports Day is postponed and it would
(c) toward (d) off now _____________ on the 14th of next month.
(a) to be held (b) been held
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 156-160) : In the following questions, some (c) being held (d) be held
parts of the sentences given with blanks to be filled in with an 170. The coach leaves at 5.20, so get to the station ___________
appropriate word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each that.
question. Choose the correct alternative out of the four. (a) before (b) after
(c) until (d) from
(SSC CHSL 2014)
156. Is not learning superior ____ wealth ? DIRECTIONS (Qs. 171-180) : In the following passage, some of
(a) than (b) from the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and
(c) by (d) to choose the correct answer to each question out of the four
157. A group of agitators ____ the mob to break down the Vice- alternatives and fill in the blanks.
Chancellor's door. Delhi 171 the capital of India. People from all parts of the country
(a) wished (b) excited and the world 172 to Delhi. There 173 many historical buildings.
(c) threatened (d) incited People 174 the Rajghat, Shantivan and Vijayghat. We visited
158. Turn the lights ______ before you go to bed. Delhi last year 175 our cousins. There 176 many other historical
(a) on (b) off cities. Agra 177 one of them. We 178 visit Agra and Jaipur next
(c) out (d) down time. The Red Fort of Delhi and the Hawa Mahal of Jaipur were
159. There is no ______ evidence to support your assertion. 179 famous for their Mughal 180 Rajasthani architecture
(a) facile (b) fictitious respectively. (SSC CHSL 2014)
(c) facetious (d) factual 171. (a) was (b) are
160. Throw a stone ______ the fierce dog. (c) is (d) were
(a) at (b) upon 172. (a) came (b) comes
(c) on (d) above (c) come (d) coming
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 161-170) : In the following questions, sentences 173. (a) has (b) were
are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s). (c) is (d) are
Four alternatives are suggested for each questions. Choose the 174. (a) visit (b) visited
correct alternative out of the four. (c) visiting (d) visits
175. (a) for (b) on
(SSC Multitasking 2014) (c) of (d) with
161. It is cool today, _____________? 176. (a) is (b) are
(a) aren't it (b) didn't it (c) were (d) was
(c) wasn't it (d) isn't it 177. (a) are (b) was
162. The book ultimately reached the person _____________ (c) is (d) were
it belonged. 178. (a) will (b) would
(a) who (b) where (c) could (d) can
(c) to whom (d) to who
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 35
179. (a) much (b) very 192. The little boy ran _______ fast that he was _______ for
(c) too (d) more breath.
180. (a) either (b) because (a) so - gasping
(c) or (d) and (b) too - fighting
(c) so - inhaling
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 181-185): In the following Five Questions,
sentences are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate (d) very - struggling
word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. 193. He was so _______ at his job that he was asked to give a
Choose the correct alternative out of the four. _______ to the visitors.
(a) adept - demonstration
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015) (b) able - disclosure
181. You must ______ your career with all seriousness. (c) agile - demolition
(a) follow (b) complete (d) accurate - display
(c) direct (d) pursue 194. She was so _______ that she was _______ by all.
182. Making pies and cakes _____ Mrs. Reddy's speciality. (a) proud : respected (b) excellent : warned
(a) are (b) were (c) is (d) has (c) talented : praised (d) stupid : admired
183. The deserted garden was infested ________ weeds. 195. The _______ of the ‘chief’ was _______ upon him.
(a) for (b) into (c) on (d) with (a) title, bestowed (b) name, dismissed
184. He went there _______ .
(c) title, imposed (d) appointment, thrown
(a) walking on foot (b) by foot
(c) with foot (d) on foot DIRECTONS (Qs. 196-199) : In the following questions, sentences
185. After your long illness _________, I am happy to see you. are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s).
(a) up and about (b) by and by Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the
(c) up and down (d) up and round correct alternative out of the four.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 186-190): In Question given below are (SSC CHSL 2015)
sentences given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate 196. All orders must ___________ the rules.
word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. (a) conform to (b) conforms to
Choose the correct alternative out of the four. (c) conforming with (d) conforms with
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015) 197. She failed to ___________ to her name.
186. When the morning ______________the murder was (a) line up (b) shine up
discovered. (c) keep up (d) rise up
(a) came (b) happened 198. As the doctor ___________ into the room, the nurse handed
(c) arrived (d) occurred him the temperature chart of the patient.
187. The smell of the Sea called ___________ memories of her (a) came (b) was coming
childhood. (c) comes (d) is coming
(a) on (b) back (c) up (d) for 199. The economic ___________ has affected our sales
188. He has the full facts ___ but is deliberately hiding them. tremendously.
(a) under his sleeves (b) upon his sleeves (a) showdown (b) slowdown
(c) up his sleeve (d) in his sleeves (c) crackdown (d) touchdown
189. The appearance of the city _______ day by day.
(a) could change (b) changed DIRECTIONS (Qs. 200-203) : In the following questions, sentences
(c) had changed (d) is changing are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s).
190. The police fired on the mob when it ________ . Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the
(a) turned noisy (b) turned violent correct alternative out of the four.
(c) became abusive (d) fizzled out (SSC CHSL 2015)
200. This house _________ ten rooms
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 191-195) : In questions below, sentences are
(a) consisted with (b) consist of
given with blanks are to be filled in with an appropriate word
(c) consists of (d) consists by
(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose 201. Have you even _____ the wolf cry ?
the correct alternative out of the four and indicate it by (a) heard (b) heard of
blackening the appropriate circle [·] in the Answer Sheet. (c) hear out (d) hear
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2015) 202. Afreen _______ that the weather was very pleasant that
191. There were so many _______ points in his speech that the day.
audience _______ to get the message. (a) suggested (b) argued
(a) superficial - listened (c) announced (d) remarked
(b) relevant - hastened 203. Mrs. Hall was prepared to excuse the scientist's strange
(c) interesting - tried habits and _______ temper.
(d) irrelevant - failed (a) irritate (b) irate
(c) irritable (d) irritation
 36 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 204-208) : In the following passage, some of DIRECTIONS (Qs. 219-228) : In the following passage, some of
the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and
choose the correct answer to each question out of the four choose the correct answer to each question out of the four
alternatives and fill in the blanks. alternative and fill in the blanks.
A team of Indian engineers 204 shown that digital photographs of Although we can 219 the 220 bodies of our solar system 221
the hand may 205 cholesterol levels in the body and serve as an a telescope, it is only 222 who can 223 the depth of outer
early warning signal 206 poor lipid health without a standard blood space. It is reported that they have seen 224 galaxies, stars
test. Researchers believe the programme may be 207 in the future taking 225 and 226 , and 'black holes'. They say that the
and 208 into mobile phones to enable it to analyze digital images deeper they look 227 the universe, the more they know 228
of the hand captured in the camera on a mobile phone. the universe originated. (SSC CHSL 2015)
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2015) 219. (a) reach (b) observe
204. (a) has been (b) are (c) look (d) find
(c) have (d) has 220. (a) heaver (b) heavy
(c) heavier (d) heavenly
205. (a) conceal (b) conjecture
221. (a) by (b) through
(c) reveal (d) conduct
(c) with (d) at
206. (a) of (b) before
222. (a) astronomers (b) astronomy
(c) at (d) by (c) Stunned (d) astrologers
207. (a) resolved (b) refined 223. (a) viewed (b) views
(c) retracted (d) recorded (c) overview (d) view
208. (a) formulated (b) featured 224. (a) shine (b) stunning
(c) loaded (d) fixed (c) stunned (d) stun
225. (a) born (b) borne
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 209-218) : In the following passage, some of
the words have been left out, Read the passage carefully and (c) birth (d) berth
choose the correct answer to each question out of the four 226. (a) die (b) died
alternative and fill in the blanks. (c) dyeing (d) dying
227. (a) into (b) at
In civilised life is a rule 209 violence, against taking 210 into
(c) through (d) on
our hands. It is a rule which 211 of us observe so often, indeed,
that a great 212 of people go through life 213 orderliness and 228. (a) why (b) where
non-violence as part of the scheme of nature. But when 214 (c) how (d) what
comes into their midst 215 refuses to observe the current rules,
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 229-230): In the following questions, sentences
and 216 the simple rule that might is right, the law abiding
are given with blanks are to be filled with an appropriate word(s).
members 217 society do not know what to do, and look on in
Four alternatives are suggested for each question. For each
218 bewildered confusion. (SSC CHSL 2015)
question, choose the correct alternative.
209. (a) after (b) at
(c) against (d) upon (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
229. The starving man _____ able to walk.
210. (a) police (b) people
(a) can barely (b) were barely
(c) rule (d) law (c) are barely (d) was barely
211. (a) most (b) none 230. The new railway counter at Dwarka should _____ all
(c) many (d) every travellers.
212. (a) amount (b) number (a) benefit (b) reward
(c) reserve (d) provide
(c) capacity (d) sum
213. (a) not expecting (b) expecting DIRECTONS (Qs. 231-233) : In the following questions, sentences
(c) not accepting (d) accepting are given with blanks are to be filled with an appropriate word(s).
214. (a) no one (b) any one Four alternatives are suggested for each question. For each question,
(c) none (d) everyone choose the correct alternative.
215. (a) who (b) how (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
(c) where (d) whom 231. The director congratulated Mr. Varma _____ his success.
216. (a) following (b) followed (a) on (b) for
(c) follows (d) follow (c) at (d) about
217. (a) of (b) at 232. The boys were _____ to hear that we were going to build a
(c) in (d) on bridge.
218. (a) helping (b) helped (a) delight (b) delights
(c) helpless (d) helpful (c) delighted (d) delighting
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 37

233. The revolting players and the game’s administrators held as hard to __249__ with our classmates. It was definitely not worth
_____ discussions to resolve the payment dispute. the 'holiday'. (SSC Stenographer 2016)
(a) unnecessary (b) obligatory 240. (a) be remember (b) remembering
(c) preliminary (d) silent (c) remember (d) remembered
241. (a) caught (b) catching
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 234-236) : In the following questions, sentences (c) catch (d) will catch
are given with blanks are to be filled with an appropriate word(s). 242. (a) going (b) go
Four alternatives are suggested for each question. For each (c) went (d) gone
question, choose the correct alternative. 243. (a) removed (b) recovering
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) (c) recover (d) revealed
234. Since last year, his condition has been _____. 244. (a) complaining (b) explained
(a) deteriorate (c) complained (d) complain
(b) deteriorating 245. (a) expose (b) exposable
(c) severely deteriorated (c) exposed (d) exposing
(d) deterioratingly 246. (a) is advised (b) advising
235. Most children remain _____ school between the ages of (c) advise (d) advised
seven and ten. 247. (a) listen (b) listened
(a) in (b) under (c) at (d) inside (c) listening (d) looking
236. The quake also _____ mudslides on the outskirts of the city. 248. (a) return (b) returned
(a) tempered (b) tampered (c) returns (d) is returned
(c) erupted (d) triggered 249. (a) catch up (b) catch
(c) caught up (d) catching up
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 237-239) : In the following questions, sentences DIRECTIONS (Qs. 250-259) : In the following passage, some of
are given with blanks are to be filled with an appropriate word(s). the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and
Four alternatives are suggested for each question. For each question, choose the correct answer to each question out of the four
choose the correct alternative. alternatives and fill in the blanks :
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) The Red Indians __250__ for the arrival of the bison. The beasts,
237. It is __________ university of excellence. which come only once a year, are a good source of meat and hide.
(a) a (b) an (c) also (d) one The Red Indians __251__ to survive the cold, bitter winter.
238. They have not had much time for social activities and I have Tikki. the young boy, __252__ to look out for the herd's
not __________ .
arrival. Everyday, he 253 top of the hill to see if he could spot them
(a) done so (b) either
on the vast horizon.
(c) also (d) gone
One night, while he __254__ , the ground shook
239. Food was packed, and they__________, a merry, delighted
__255__ and his bag of arrows fell off from its hook on the
party.
wall. Tikki __256__ of his wigwam and felt a strong gust of
(a) went off (b) start off
wind and dust gush past him. Shouting excitedly, he ran to the
(c) cut off (d) set off
other wigwams and woke everyone up. A big fire __257__ built
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 240-249) : In the following passage some of and the Red Indians danced around it, giving praises to their
the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and God who had, at last, __258__ their food and clothing of
choose the correct answer to each question out of the four animal hide. The next morning, all to hunt down the beasts to
alternatives and fill in the blanks : the the warriors __259__ to hunt down the beasts which were
grazing near the river.
I will always __240__ the trip I made to the zoo in 1988. It was then
(SSC Stenographer 2016)
that I __241__ measles from one of my friends. Peter, who had
__242__ along too. Before he met us at the zoo, he had gone to 250. (a) were waited (b) are waited
visit his cousin who was __243__ from measles. The next day, (c) were waiting (d) is waiting
Peter was __244__ of a sore throat, a bad cold and high fever. 251. (a) needed their (b) needing this
When he was diagnosed by a doctor as having measles, his (c) needing these (d) needed these
parents rang me up to warn me that I had been __245__ to measles 252. (a) was chose (b) was chosen
too. By the next day. I was also showing / having the same (c) was choose (d) is choose
symptoms. My doctor __246__ me to stay at home for the next 253. (a) would run (b) will be running
two weeks. (c) would running (d) will running
I was quite pleased with the doctor's instruction. I spent the 254. (a) was asleep (b) were slept
time reading story-books, __247__to music and watching television. (c) is sleep (d) was sleeping
When I get bored, I would call up Peter who also had to spend two 255. (a) violent (b) violet
weeks at borne, for a chat. Unfortunately, the two weeks passed (c) violently (d) violence
toothy quickly. When we __248__ to school, we had to work twice 256. (a) rushed out (b) rushed in
(c) rushing out (d) rust out
 38 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

257. (a) were immediate (b) was immediately DIRECTIONS (Qs. 270 -279) : In the following question, you have
(c) were immediately (d) was immediate the following two passage in in which some of the words have been
258. (a) sent their (b) send their left out. First read the passage over and try to understand what it is
(c) send them (d) sent them about. Then fill in the blanks with the help of the alternatives.
259. (a) were assigned (b) were assigning
(SSC Stenographer 2016)
(c) is assigned (d) was assigning
PASSAGE - I
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 260-264) : In the following Five Questions, The Indian Ocean earthquake of 2004, also 270 as the Sumatra-
sentences are given with blanks to be filled in with the most Andaman earthquake, was an undersea earthquake that 271 on
appropriate word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each the morning of 26 December 2004. It had a 272 of 9.15 on the
question. Choose the most correct alternative out of the four. Richter scale, which makes it one of the most 273 earthquakes
(SSC Stenographer 2016) even recorded. The only earthquake of 274 magnitude was the
Great Earthquake of Chile (magnitude 9.5) in 1969. The Indian
260. We all have __________ the widowed girl. Ocean earthquake 275 more than, 100 people, making it one of the
(a) sympathy with deadlist 276 in modern history. It lasted 277 to ten minutes, when
(b) sympathy of most earthquakes last no more than a few seconds. It caused the
(c) sympathy at 278 planet to move off its course by at least a few centimeters and
(d) sympathy for 279 earthquakes elsewhere, as far away as Alaska.
261. They organized an event last month in __________ with
270. (a) known (b) called
another company.
(c) recognized (b) referred
(a) connection
(b) regulation 271. (a) happened (b) arose
(c) competition (c) occurred (d) began
(d) collaboration 272. (a) dimension (b) magnitude
262. He _______ to help me and called me a fool. (c) height (d) reference
(a) offered (b) thought 273. (a) great (b) beautiful
(c) refused (d) denied (c) wonderful (d) powerful
263. One who tries may fail but one who does not try never 274. (a) different (b) distinct
__________ (c) comparable (d) likewise
(a) prosper (b) sain 275. (a) destructed (b) murdered
(c) saved (d) killed
(c) succeeds (d) success
276. (a) blows (b) disasters
264. The lady __________ to be a close relative of ours. (c) failures (d) breakdowns
(a) turned up (b) turned about 277. (a) close (b) near
(c) turned out (d) turned in (c) open (d) nearby
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 265-269) : In the following questions, sentences 278. (a) full (b) entire
are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s). (c) complete (d) total
Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the correct 279. (a) prompted (b) elicited
alternative out of the four and indicate it by blackenging the (c) triggered (d) invited
appropriate aval in the Answer Sheet.
PASSAGE - II (Q. Nos. 280 to 289)
(SSC Stenographer 2016) Socrates who was a great thinker and 280 never liked to write 281.
265. Raju willingly____________my request for financial He wanted to make people 282 well. Plato was the most 283 pupil
assistance. of Socrates. With boundless love and 284 for his 285, Plato wrote
(a) complied to (b) complied with all the teachings of Socrates. Years 286 when printing was invented,
(c) complied on (d) complied for Plato's books were also 287. They have been 288 into many 289.
(SSC Stenographer 2016)
266. My friend____________at seven this morning.
280. (a) teacher (b) preacher
(a) took away (b) got up (c) speaker (d) announced
(c) left up (d) kept up 281. (a) letters (b) essays
267. A lady___________I know helped me. (c) books (d) poems
(a) who (b) whom 282. (a) speak (b) think
(c) which (d) that (c) act (d) play
268. The government has identified food processing as the 283. (a) known (b) loving
key________rapid industrialization in Bihar. (c) obedient (d) famous
(a) for (b) to 284. (a) kindness (b) respect
(c) of (d) in (c) anger (d) hatred
285. (a) pupil (b) guardian
269. Rajan was so tired___________he could not walk.
(c) master (d) servant
(a) as (b) than 286. (a) later (b) after
(c) that (d) still (c) before (d) over
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 39
287. (a) published (b) released 299. (a) adds (b) fits
(c) sold (d) printed (c) gets (d) lets
288. (a) changed (b) translated 300. (a) continuously (b) often
(c) written (d) published (c) randomly (d) seldom
289. (a) waya (b) varieties 301. (a) authority (b) capacity
(c) languages (d) sizes
(c) comfortability (d) reasonability
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 290-294): In the following five Questions,
sentences are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate DIRECTIONS (Qs. 302 – 303) : In the following questions, the
words(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. sentence are given with blank to be filled in with an appropriate
Choose the correct alternatives out of the four and indicate it by word. Select the correct alternative out of the four and indicate
blackening the appropriate. it by selecting the appropriate option.
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2016) (SSC CGL 2017)
290. His profession is teaching but his –––––––– is photography. 302. Fourteen kilometres _______ not a short distance, to reach
(a) vocative (b) vacation to my office daily.
(c) vocation (d) avocation (a) are (b) has
291. He quarrelled with his boss, –––––––– of the consequences. (c) have (d) is
(a) confident (b) heedless 303. Good reading _________ the sense of liberal educated mind.
(c) weary (d) devoid (a) beliefs (b) leads
292. As the driver swerved violently at the turning, the wheel (c) reflects (d) starts
came off, as it was already –––––––– ,
(a) loss (b) lose DIRECTIONS (Qs. 304 - 308) : In the following passage, some
(c) lost (d) loose of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and
293. Some verbs need a –––––––– to convey the full meaning. select the correct answer for the given blank out of the four
(a) compliment (b) complimentary alternatives.
(c) complement (d) component Job performace is 304 by a number of factors. Motivation
294. The demonstration passed off without ––––––––
alone does not lead to increased performance. Ability and
(a) coincidence (b) incidence
technology moderates the relationship between motivation and
(c) incident (d) accident
performance. The higher the levels of ability and motivation the
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 295 – 296) : In the following questions, the 305 the level of performance will be. However, increasing
sentences are given with blank to be filled in with an appropriate motivation beyond an 306 level tends to 307 a
word. Select the correct alternative out of the four and indicate dysfunctional result because it is 308 by an increased level of
it by selecting the appropriate option. anxiety. (SSC CGL 2017)
(SSC CGL 2017) 304. (a) affected (b) effected
295. The higher you climb, the more difficult it _________ to (c) influenced (d) measured
breathe. 305. (a) higher (b) larger
(a) became (b) becomes (c) lower (d) smaller
(c) has become (d) is becoming 306. (a) certain (b) desired
296. Neha has been crying _______ morning. (c) increased (d) optimal
(a) from (b) of 307. (a) deduce (b) introduce
(c) since (d) till (c) produce (d) reduce
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 297 – 301) : In the following questions, the 308. (a) abandoned (b) accompanied
sentence given with blank to be filled in with an appropriate (c) affilated (d) amalgamated
word. Select the correct alternative out of the four and indicate DIRECTIONS (Qs. 309 – 310) : In the following questions, the
it by selecting the appropriate option. sentence given with blank to be filled in with an approperiate
The 297 of lectures could be enhanced by introducing the word. Select the correct alternative out of the four and indicate
lecture with a brief review of the work 298 it should also be it by selecting the appropriate option.
indicated how the day's lecture 299 into the course pattern. (SSC CGL 2017)
A lecture should 300 be presented in one unbroken
309. Don't toilet _________ the corridor.
discourse. Unless exceptionally interesting, a long lecture
(a) around (b) off
strains the 301 of a concentrated listening, causing
(c) of (d) at
intermittent wandering of attention and loss of continuity in
310. I will scold him when ____________.
thought. (SSC CGL 2017)
(a) he will come
297. (a) condition (b) effectiveness
(b) he comes
(c) efficiency (d) interest
(c) he would come
298. (a) ascending (b) preceding
(d) he had come
(c) reciting (d) succeeding
 40 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 311 – 315) : In the following passage, some 323. In the following question, the sentence given with blank is
of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and to be filled in with an appropriate word. Select the correct
select the correct answer for the given blank out of the four alternative out of the four and indicate it by selecting the
alternatives. appropriate option.
Arun's financial ____________ has helped him earn a
Democracy should __311__ dignity of the individual. It should fortune on the stock market. (SSC CHSL 2017)
also aim at the __312__ good of the greatest __313__. The (a) dexterity (b) readiness
opposition party should __314__ the wrong plans, policies and (c) expertise (d) knack
decisions of the government in power. The government should 324. In the following question, sentence given with blank is to
cater to the __315__ needs of the people to make its position be filled in with an appropriate word. Select the correct
solid. (SSC CGL 2017) alternative out of the four and indicate it by selecting the
311. (a) built (b) ensure appropriate option.
(c) keep (d) support Fuel suppliers will ____________ the national oil shortage
312. (a) greatest (b) smallest by raising prices to increase their bottom lines.
(c) largest (d) heaviest (SSC CHSL 2017)
313. (a) people (b) digit (a) use (b) misuse
(c) number (d) individual (c) ventuse (d) exploit
314. (a) rely on (b) against
(c) support (d) oppose DIRECTIONS (Qs. 325 – 329): In the following passage, some
315. (a) genuine (b) mere of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and
(c) emotional (d) luxurious select the correct answer for the given blank out of the four
alternatives.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 316 – 317) : In the following questions, the
sentence given with blank to be filled in with an appropriate The scenario ____325____ dramatically today. We have the
word. Select the correct alternative out of the four and indicate ___326______ of powerful Internet monopolies that are much
it by selecting the appropriate option. bigger ____327_____ the telcos. Not surprisingly, these
companies now see the _____328_____ of monopoly. They would
(SSC CGL 2017) like to combine with telcos to create monopolies for their platforms,
316. Keith has _________ with a failure in English examination ensuring that they control the future of the Internet and freeze
thrice. their competition ____329______. (SSC CHSL 2017)
(a) caught (b) gone 325. (a) change (b) had changed
(c) got (d) met (c) has changed (d) changing
317. The manager was _________ an explanation of his conduct. 326. (a) emerging (b) emerge
(a) called for (b) called off (c) emergence (d) emergency
(c) called to (d) called up
327. (a) then (b) than
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 318 – 322) : In the following question, the (c) to (d) of
sentence given with blank to be filled in with an appropriate 328. (a) virtues (b) respectability
word. Select the correct alternative out of the four and indicate (c) trust (d) innocence
it by selecting the appropriate option. 329. (a) off (b) about
Corruption is a __318__ which has been spread in the mind of (c) in (d) out
wrong people of the society, community and __319__. It is the DIRECTIONS (Qs. 330 –334): In the following question, the
mistreatment of public resources just for getting some __320__ sentence given with blank to be filled in with an appropriate
advantage to fulfil little wish. It is concerned with the unnecessary word. Select the correct alternative out of the four and indicate
and wrong use of both power and __321__ by anyone whether
it by selecting the appropriate option.
the government or non government organisation. It affects the
growth and development organisation. If affects the growth and (SSC Sub. Insp. 2017)
development of the nation in all aspects like socially, __322__ 330. Suman has _______for the final round of the competition.
and politically. (SSC CGL 2017) (a) Superior (b) decided
318. (a) havoc (b) poison (c) declared (d) qualified
(c) pollutant (d) grassroot 331. Her supporters began to ______and she was left alone.
319. (a) country (b) world (a) fall over (b) fall away
(c) universe (d) company (c) fall off (d) fall on
320. (a) fruitful (b) wishful 332. No______than fifteen boys failed in a class of forty.
(c) favourite (d) unfair (a) little (b) less
321. (a) position (b) growth (c) few (d) fewer
(c) status (d) symbol 333. Sania was compensated ______the loss of her belongings
322. (a) emotionally (b) scientifically at the airport.
(c) manually (d) economically (a) for (b) of
(c) against (d) over
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 41
334. Suraj is acquainted ______Kapil. 344. Creative idea can feel_______.
(a) of (b) with (a) impossible (b) lazy
(c) from (d) to (c) cold (d) hot
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 335 – 339) : In the following passage some 345. A_______that has to be learned and honed.
of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and (a) talent (b) hobby
select the correct answer for the given blank out of the four (c) skill (d) sense
alternatives. 346. ______you're a marketer
Youth is the __335__gift of the god, says an old "upanishad". (a) and (b) but
Let us __336__in it. It is the great formative __337__of our life, (c) still (d) Whether
brief but powerful. We are then able to __338__the world with 347. Creative thinking is a valuable skill to ___________.
feelings pure and with __339_unworldly. (SSC Sub. Insp. 2017) (a) possess (b) have
335. Youth is the _______gift of th e god, says an old (c) should (d) get
"unpanishad'. 348. It can help us find________.
(a) inexpensive (b) best (a) senseless (b) unique
(c) useless (d) small (c) ugly (d) worst
336. Let us ______in it. It is the great formative. 349. Create memorable and effective ________.
(a) rejoice (b) live (a) memories (b) communications
(c) dance (d) sleep (c) borders (d) relations
337. _______of our life, brief but powerful.
(a) lesson (b) resource DIRECTIONS (Qs. 350 – 359) : In the following passage some
of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and
(c) period (d) idea
select the correct answer for the given blank out of the four
338. We are then able to ______the world with feelings pure alternatives.
(a) challenge (b) roam
(SSC Steno. 2017)
(c) target (d) face
Art movement is described as a ____350____or way of doing art
339. and with _______unwordly.
of art that spans over a ___351_____of time that is subtly or
(a) ambitions (b) Passively ___352____different than another movement of art. The style or
(c) religiously (d) resources method "moves" or changes to a different way if you will. These
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 340 – 349) :In the following passage some styles are used to ___353____art practiced by a group of
of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and ___354___within the same time period and/or region. Some
select the correct answer for the given blank out of the four art____355____that have been influenced by another art
altirnatives. movement show obvious____356____while others seem to defy
You can spend hours looking for__340___, days waiting their cousins because of ___357____. It is interesting to study
for that Eureka___341_____, moving things around on screen, the differences between art ___358___and also to study the
starting at blank pieces of paper,___342___down half-formed different ____359_____of art.
ideas, all to___343____no avail. Sometimes coming up with just 350. Art movement is described as a _______.
one creative idea can feel___344____. You feel this way because (a) type (b) style
creativity is a process, a___345____that has to be learned and (c) like (d) practice
honed.____346____you're a marketer, designer, entrepreneur or 351. Art that spans over a ________of time.
any thing in between, creative thinking is a valuable skill to (a) tide (b) wait
__347___. It can help us find__348____, tailored solutions to
problems and create memorable and effective___349___. (c) period (d) during
(SSC Steno. 2017) 352. _________different than another movement of art.
340. You can spend hours looking for________. (a) distinctly (b) easy
(a) dedication (b) inspiration (c) newly (d) otherwise
(c) solutions (d) ideas 353. These styles are used to ______art practiced.
341. Days waiting for that Eureka_______. (a) visualise (b) describe
(a) moment (b) movement (c) imgine (d) ignore
(c) type (d) day 354. Group of _______within the same period and/or region.
342. _______down half-formed ideas (a) businessmen (b) actors
(a) idea (b) pencil (c) ventors (d) artists
(c) jotted (d) writes 355. Some art _______that have been influenced.
343. ________no avail. (a) movements (b) pictures
(a) absolutely (b) silence (c) books (d) scenes
(c) full (d) rightly
 42 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

356. Art movement show obvious ________while others. 368. He was so filled with contempt for the prisoner that he gave
(a) alike (b) same him a _______look.
(c) eagerness (d) similarities (a) humiliated (b) derisive
(c) pitying (d) hurtful
357. Defy their cousins because of ________. 369. Next summer we're going ________ a trip to Canada.
(a) limitations (b) benefits (a) to (b) for
(c) distance (d) time (c) on (d) over
358. Study the differences between art _________. 370. Romeo and Juliet's ________affairs is probably the most
(a) movements (b) flow loved of all times.
(a) secret (b) covert
(c) revolution (d) adequate
(c) candid (d) clandestine
359. Study the different _________of art. 371. The _______towards the school was very steep.
(a) length (b) timezone (a) ascend (b) ascent
(c) periods (d) duration (c) assent (d) accent
372. Some interesting matters _______in our discussion
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 360 – 364) : In the following question, the
yesterday.
sentence given with blank to be filled in with an appropriate
(a) came up (b) got up
word. Select the correct alternative out of the four and indicate (c) came in (d) came about
it by selecting the appropriate option. 373. He loaded the _________of cotton on the truck.
(SSC Steno. 2017) (a) baskets (b) bales
360. Each item was sold ________a pound (c) bunches (d) bundles
(a) at (b) for 374. Anything is _________ which is not against the nature of
things.
(c) in (d) of
(a) practicable (b) parable
361. Be just _________fear nothing. (c) probable (d) possible
(a) but (b) while 375. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(c) and (d) until The employees of our company are not ______ of their
362. He came two hours _______us. freedom. (SSC CHSL 2018)
(a) before (b) ago (a) deployed (b) denied
(c) above (d) ahead (c) dissipated (d) deprived
363. Sunaina said,"She is sick _______the whole business." DIRECTIONS (Qs. 376-380): In the following passage some
(a) by (b) of words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of
(c) for (d) with the alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for
364. He was quite __________when he heard what had each blank.
happened. The two men bowed to one (1) ______ and parted. D’Artagnan
(a) laughing (b) amused found himself in a difficult (2) ______ . He was going to have
(c) lovable (d) beautiful to (3) ______ three duels in a (4) ______ of three hours. He
thought, “If they kill me, (5) ______ I shall be killed by a
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 365 – 374): Sentence given with blank to be
Musketeer.
filled in with appropiate word(s). Four alternatives are
suggested for each question. Choose the most appropriate 376. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no. 1
alternative out of the four and indicate it by blackening the (SSC CHSL 2018)
corresponding circle in the Answer sheet. (a) each (b) other
(SSC MTS 2017) (c) self (d) another
365. As soon as this workshop is over, I am going to ________ 377. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no. 2
every duty and go on a holiday. (SSC CHSL 2018)
(a) sidetrack (b) abandon (a) location (b) relation
(c) overthrow (d) close down (c) situation (d) station
366. She ______ great pleasure and satisfaction from cooking. 378. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no. 3
(a) wants (b) has (SSC CHSL 2018)
(c) draws (d) derives (a) figure out (b) think out
367. Poetry is a ________ form of expression in which the (c) fight (d) fix
particularity of the word and the image to evoke feeling, 379. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no. 4
assumes great importance. (SSC CHSL 2018)
(a) suppressed (b) patronized (a) place (b) matter
(c) compressed (d) digressed (c) gap (d) time
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 43

380. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no. 5 DIRECTIONS (Qs. 389-398) : Choose the most appropriate
(SSC CHSL 2018) option to fill in the blanks in the given passage.
(a) maximum (b) at least
The Earth’s temperature is rising (1) _____ Scientists say that the
(c) least (d) even though
rise in the average temperature ranges from 1.8° C to 4°C. This (2)
381. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
_____ in temperature is called global warming or climate change.
The Prime Minister was __ a ceremonial welcome.
Although it is a natural phenomenon, human action is the (3)
(SSC CHSL 2018)
________ cause of global warming. The burning of fossil fuels
(a) initiated (b) extended
such as petroleum and coal (4) _____ a lot of greenhouse gases
(c) expected (d) invited
into the Earth’s atmosphere. Carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous
382. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. oxide are the main greenhouse gases (5) _____ for global warming.
I am quite satisfied that I have not been _______ in doing Besides greenhouse gases, deforestation is (6) _____ major cause
whatever was needful for building up their character. of this problem. Global warming has led to changes in temperature
(SSC CGL 2018) and rainfall patterns which have severely (7) _____ agriculture. No
(a) negligent (b) devoted one can (8) _____ that this is the most serious environmental
(c) caring (d) affectionate challenge that mankind is facing today. While it is not possible to
383. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. reverse the process, the rate of global warming can be checked if all
Today, _______ society is literally poisoning the earth with the countries (9) _____ some measures. (10)) _____ of the
acid rain. (SSC CGL 2018) measures is the recycling and reusing articles like paper, glass,
(a) cosmopolitan aluminum and plastic.
(b) developing 389. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 1.
(c) growing (SSC Steno 2018)
(d) industrialised (a) strongly (b) steadily (c) stability (d) simply
390. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 2.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 384-388) : In the following questions, select
(SSC Steno 2018)
the related word pair from the given alternatives.
(a) high (b) increase (c) incline (d) raise
In the following passage some words have been deleted. Fill in 391. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 3.
the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. Select the most (SSC Steno 2018)
appropriate option for each blank. (a) major (b) slowest (c) rapid (d) mutual
Marine Conservation Society is hosting the Anjarle Turtle festival 392. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 4.
2019, aiming to make more people aware about Olive Ridley turtles. (SSC Steno 2018)
The sea (1) ____ get their names from their olive- coloured (2) (a) realizes (b) releases (c) revives (d) Leads
____ They grow to about two feet in (3) ____ and reportedly 393. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 5.
mate at around 1000 kilometers from the Anjarle (4) ____ These (SSC Steno 2018)
turtles come to the beach to lay (5) ____. (a) responsible (b) dependent
384. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No.(1) (c) account (d) available
(SSC CGL 2018) 394. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 6.
(a) snakes (b) fish (SSC Steno 2018)
(c) animal (d) turtles (a) another (b) together (c) other (d) further
385. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No.(2) 395. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 7.
(SSC CGL 2018) (SSC Steno 2018)
(a) wings (b) shells (a) renewed (b) reduced (c) affected (d) effected
(c) feathers (d) beaks 396. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 8.
386. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No.(3) (SSC Steno 2018)
(SSC CGL 2018) (a) deny (b) accept (c) mean (d) regret
(a) length (b) growth 397. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 9.
(SSC Steno 2018)
(c) weight (d) depth
(a) check (b) watch (c) adapt (d) adopt
387. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No.(4)
398. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 10.
(SSC CGL 2018)
(SSC Steno 2018)
(a) festival (b) beach
(a) one (b) none (c) all (d) few
(c) sea (d) sand
399 Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
388. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No.(5)
These medicines will be ______ only if they are taken
(SSC CGL 2018) regularly. (SSC Steno 2018)
(a) young ones (b) eggs (a) useful (b) efficient
(c) pebbles‘ (d) shells (c) affective (d) effective
 44 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 400 -409) : Choose the most appropriate (a) borrowed (b) kept
option to fill in the blanks in the given passage. (c) selected (d) lent
412. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
It is essential to prepare for an interview. Interviewers like to see We can meet tomorrow to __________ the chief guest’s
(1) ________ who are prepared to ask questions. (2) ________ programme. (SSC Steno 2018)
good interviewer is going to be looking for candidates (3)
(a) reveal (b) call
________ demonstrate that they will (4) ________ something
(c) confirm (d) declare
new to the company. Think of the things you (5) ________
contribute to the organization. Looking good is also very 413. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
important. (6) ________ many companies now allow (7) The truck was __________ the traffic and the policeman
________ formal clothes in the workplace, this does not mean it asked the driver to move off. (SSC Steno 2018)
is no (8) ________ essential to wear neat and formal dress for an (a) obstructing (b) hiding
interview. The most important thing is to be yourself. (9) (c) closing (d) holding
________ you must never do is (10) ________ to be something 414. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank.
you are not, in order to get the job. Mr. Sharma may be late but I am sure Mr. Kapoor
400. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 1. __________ be. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
(SSC Steno 2018) (a) would (b) can’t
(a) individuals (b) people (c) should (d) won’t
(c) candidates (d) men
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 415-419): In the following passage some
401. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 2.
words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the
(SSC Steno 2018)
alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each
(a) all (b) any (c) some (d) that
number.
402. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 3.
(SSC Steno 2018) Lord Baden Powell, the founder of Scouting was himself an
(a) whose (b) whom (c) which (d) who army scout. During ______ (1) war in South Africa, when
403. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 4. soldiers ______ (2) not easily available, he selected a few boys
(SSC Steno 2018) ______ (3) worked as messengers and did a wonderful ______
(a) carry (b) fetch (c) take (d) bring
(4) as little scouts. Since then, the Scout Movement has
404. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 5.
(SSC Steno 2018) ______(5) throughout the world.
(a) need (b) could (c) know (d) ought 415. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No.l.
405. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 6. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
(SSC Steno 2018) (a) an (b) one
(a) despite (b) but (c) although (d) still (c) any (d) a
406. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 7. 416. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No.2.
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
(SSC Steno 2018)
(a) were (b) are
(a) low (b) little (c) less (d) least
(c) had (d) have
407. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 8.
417. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No. 3,
(SSC Steno 2018)
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
(a) longer (b) need (c) more (d) further
(a) whose (b) whom
408. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 9. (c) which (d) who
(SSC Steno 2018) 418. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No.4.
(a) How (b) What (c) Why (d) That (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
409. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank no 10. (a) work (b) thing
(SSC Steno 2018) (c) job (d) post
(a) like (b) have (c) try (d) want 419. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No. 5.
410. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
You must __________ your goals with all seriousness if (a) spread (b) extended
you want to succeed in your life. (SSC Steno 2018) (c) stretched (d) scattered
(a) realize (b) pursue 420. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank.
(c) chase (d) direct His new job is connected __________ developing software
411. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. for teaching. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
The library expects you to return each and every book that (a) from (b) with
you have __________. (SSC Steno 2018) (c) by (d) about
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 45

421. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank. 430. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No. 3.
The plant will die __________ you look after it. (SSC MTS 2018)
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2018) (a) at (b) in
(a) if (b) unless (c) to (d) on
(c) otherwise (d) until 431. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No. 4.
422. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank. (SSC MTS 2018)
Next week I __________ visiting my friend and staying (a) readily (b) barely
with him for a day. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018) (c) rarely (d) steadily
(a) intending (b) intend 432. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No. 5.
(c) intended (d) intends (SSC MTS 2018)
423. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank. (a) about (b) along
The children had made a mess on the floor, so I asked Sana (c) across (d) through
to clean __________ up. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018) Directions (Qs. 433-437) : In the following passage some words
(a) it (b) they have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the
(c) them (d) its alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each
424. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank. blank. (SSC CGL 2019-20)
________ they are twins, they are worlds apart in their
attitude to life. (SSC MTS 2018) Communication plays a (1) ______ role in the overall development
(a) Although (b) Despite of man. It can be learnt by our (2) ______ efforts. Today, success
(c) Whereas (d) However in our professional life depends on our (3) _____ to read, write
425. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank and and speak well which results in effective communication. Barriers
make a meaningful sentence. (4) _____ communication hinder the communication proccess. It
He ________ me up on his way to work. is very important to (5) ______ these barriers so that the
(SSC MTS 2018) transmission of the message can be smooth.
(a) picked (b) raised 433. Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 1
(c) lifted (d) dropped (a) better (b) total
426. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank. (c) vital (d) lifeless
The company ________ its first all electric car in the Indian 434. Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 2
market soon. (SSC MTS 2018) (a) unclear (b) conscious
(a) is launching (b) launched (c) contradictory (d) important
(c) launch (d) has launched 435. Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 3
427. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank and (a) variety (b) agility
make a meaningful sentence. (SSC MTS 2018) (c) facility (d) ability
Conservative parents usually do not give their ________ 436. Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 4
for uncommon career choices of their children. (a) against (b) by
(a) consent (b) agreement (c) to (d) from
(c) allowance (d) dissent 437. Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 5
(a) strengthen (b) overcome
DIRECTIONS: (428-432): In the following passage some words (c) create (d) succeed
have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the alterna- 438. Fill in the blank with the most appropriate word.
tives given. Select the most appropriate option for each blank. Handle this glass table with care because it is ______.
Bengaluru is becoming an exciting destination for higher education (SSC CGL 2019-20)
for students (12) ______ all over the world. International students (a) volatile (b) ductile
(13) ______ close to 20% of the student population (14) ______ (c) fragile (d) frugal
the city and this number is (15) ______ increasing. The city has 439. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
almost 900 colleges-the maximum in any city (16) ______ the Her parents always ______ her in her studies.
country. (SSC MTS 2019-20)
428. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No. 1. (a) encouraged (b) interested
(SSC MTS 2018) (c) impressed (d) expected
(a) in (b) for 440. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(c) from (d) by The entry gates were closed _____ we could enter in.
429. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank No. 2. (SSC MTS 2019-20)
(SSC MTS 2018)
(a) till (b) before
(a) constitute (b) consist
(c) after (d) until
(c) construct (d) collect
 46 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

441. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. 451. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
_____ you like some water? (SSC MTS 2019-20) The advanced nations face no population problem since they
(a) Do (b) Would were already settling down to zero growth ____ in
(c) Shall (d) Can population.
(SSC CGL 2020-21)
442. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(a) scale (b) degree
We must start now ______ it will be too late. (c) rate (d) frequency
(SSC MTS 2019-20) 452. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(a) until (b) unless Scientists all over the world are engaged in ______ how to
(c) or (d) but find a vaccine for COVID-19. (SSC CHSL 2020-21)
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 443-447): In the following passage some (a) Scrutinizing (b) Researching
words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the (c) Investigating (d) Inspecting
alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each 453. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank.
blank. The marketing of answer papers is ______ out by the course
The choices we make in life determine who we are. One’s life is teacher. (SSC CHSL 2020-21)
(1)______ marked by the exemplary choices one has made (2) (a) crossed (b) checked
______ one’s journey. The mega icon Ratan Tata has described (c) done (d) carried
his journey (3)______ being a seven-year-old boy who played 454. Select the most appropriate workd to fill in the blank.
his (4) ______ the freedom struggle to being moved by the plight Watching one’s pet cat is therapeutic and can make one
of a family on a two-wheeler which became the genesis of the quite _____ to the real world outside.
world’s most (5)______ car the Tata Nano. (SSC MTS 2020-21)
(SSC CHSL 2019-20) (a) obvious (b) envious
443. Select the most appropriate option for blank number 1. (c) studious (d) oblivious
(a) rarely (b) often 455. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank.
(c) seldom (d) never Did you visit ______ Nehru Planetarium in Delhi during the
444. Select the most appropriate option for blank number 2. eclipse? (SSC MTS 2020-21)
(a) toward (b) into (a) a (b) the
(c) along (d) upon (c) any (d) an
445. Select the most appropriate option for blank number 3. 456. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank.
(a) above (b) for ______ you please help me with my computer?
(c) though (d) from (SSC MTS 2020-21)
446. Select the most appropriate option for blank number 4. (a) May (b) Dare
(a) part in (b) part of
(c) Shall (d) Could
(c) part from (d) part with
457. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank.
447. Select the most appropriate option for blank number 5.
I like to go on a trip with Rahul as he is cheerful and _______.
(a) economical (b) economize
(SSC MTS 2020-21)
(c) economic (d) economist
(a) easy-going (b) closed
448. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank in the
(c) uncaring (d) tense
given sentence.
458. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
Those earning less than ‘10,000 are ______ from paying The evidence in the murder case ______ presented before
income tax. (SSC CHSL 2019-20) the jury. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(a) adjusted (b) exempted (a) had (b) has (c) were (d) was
(c) collected (d) accepted 459. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
449. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank in the He fell ______ the swing in the garden.
given sentence. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
The teacher ______ the student for cheating. (a) off (b) away (c) below (d) along
(SSC CHSL 2019-20) 460. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(a) refused (b) invoked There ______ considerable room for improvement in your
(c) praised (d) rebuked drawing. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(a) is (b) be (c) are (d) were
450. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
461. Fill in the blank with the most appropriate word.
The door ______ in the strong wind. The mid-day meal ensures ______ each child studying in a
(SSC CGL 2020-21) government school has at least one nutritiious meal a day.
(a) Slammed (b) Hooted (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(c) sizzled (d) slapped (a) those (b) that (c) this (d) these
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 47
462. Fill in the blank with the most appropriate word. 471. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank
She is eagerly waiting for the day when she _____ to her number 2.
fiance. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) (a) regularly (b) habitually
(a) will marries (b) has married (c) terminally (d) rarely
(c) gets married (d) got marry 472. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank
463. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank. number 3.
Let us know ________ you change your mind. (a) confess (b) tackle
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21) (c) conduct (d) deal
(a) however (b) although 473. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank
(c) suppose (d) in case number 4.
464. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank. (a) curb (b) lure
I’m sure I _______ them at the party last night. (c) incite (d) promote
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21) 474. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank
(a) was seeing (c) saw number 5.
(b) am seeing (d) have seen (a) acknowledgements (b) powers
465. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank. (c) efforts (d) struggles
We respect you but we don’t agree _____ your ideas. 475. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21) The increasing concerns about climate change point to the
(a) for (b) to (c) by (d) with need for enhanced efforts towards ______ sustained growth.
466. Select the most appropriate words to fill in the blanks. (SSC CGL 2021-22)
Today computer viruses spread _____ a dizzying speed (a) achieving (b) to achieve
_____ way of file downloads. (c) achieved (d) achieve
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21) 476. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(a) by; by (b) at; from (c) at; by (d) in; from The angles are equal, consequently the sides are _______.
467. Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank. (SSC CGL 2022)
I ______ something burning now. (a) equal (b) unequal
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21) (c) larger (d) smaller
(a) smelt (b) have been smelling
477. Select the most appropriate collocating word to fill in the
(c) smell (d) have smelt
blank.
468. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
Ram was praised for his ________ leadership.
The boys were tired, but not too tired to examine the little
(SSC CGL 2022)
hut __________ . (a) imaginary (b) visionary
The boys were tired, but not too tired to examine the little (c) magical (d) broad
hut ______. (SSC MTS 2021-22) 478. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(a) weirdly (b) weakly The tribesmen cautiously came _______ to collect the items
(c) thoroughly (d) sluggishly left by the officials. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
469. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. (a) forward (b) after
It is better to be prompt and organised than to be ______. (c) afar (d) ahead
(SSC MTS 2021-22) 479. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blanks.
(a) provident (b) meaningless The blue whale is the largest animal that ever lived. The
(c) efficient (d) reckless largest ________ grow to the length of a basketball court.
DIRECTION : In the following passage, some words have been A blue whale’s heart is as big as a compact car. Its tails
deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most flukes are as wide as a soccer goal. These animals were
appropriate option to fill in each blank. (SSC MTS 2021-22) hunted nearly to their ________. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
The Government is taking seriously the (1) ______ of road safety (a) modal; elimination (b) sample; removal
and is committed to reducing the number of people killed in (c) pattern; eradication (d) specimens; extinction
accidents. Forums are being conducted (2) ______ to bring law- 480. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
makers, law enforcement officers and road users together to He pushed her on ___________.
discuss ways to (3) ______ the rise in road accidents. Everyone (SSC Stenographer 2022)
agrees that more needs to be done on road safety in its (a) focus (b) deliberate
determination to (4) ______ the rate of road accidents in the (c) purpose (d) surplus
country. The Government, with the cooperation of relevant 481. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
agencies, is making serious (5) ______ to instil proper road culture The easiest ________ to get started is to use your imagina-
in children, young adults and the public in general. tion and maturity. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
470. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank (a) stretch
number 1. (b) approach
(a) release (b) residue (c) work
(c) issue (d) site (d) thinking
 48 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

482. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. 491. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.
Our forefathers loved trees and forests so much that they
_____ deified and worshipped them as abodes of (a) mentions (b) prepares
Vrikshadevata and Vanadevata. (SSC Stenographer 2022) (c) exercising (d) follows
(a) even (b) heartily 492. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.
(c) downright (d) chiefly (a) reacts (b) receives
In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the (c) recreates (d) envisions
passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the
each blank. (SSC Stenographer 2022) passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in
National Educational Policy of India 2020 is built on the founda- each blank. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
tional (1) _______ of Equity, Access, Quality and Affordability. Individuals might not always do just what we (1)________like
The policy is a (2) ____________ framework of India’s education them to do. No matter how justified or marginal our requirements
system from elementary to higher education. It also discusses the (2)________ we will occasionally be disheartened. Instinctually,
(3) __________ and scope of vocational training. The objective when our expectations are not fulfilled, we become hurt and up-
is to (4) __________ India in a vibrant knowledge society and set. Altercations terrify us since they are uncomfortable and have
make the country a global knowledge superpower by providing a the potential to destroy relationships. However, avoiding con-
more (5) __________, flexible and multidisciplinary education to frontation does not (3)________the dispute, as unanswered ques-
its youth. tions also have a detrimental (4)________on relationships. In-
483. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1. deed, the true source of (5)________ is our confrontational style,
(a) pillars (b) aims not the problem itself.
(c) column (d) post 493. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1.
484. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2. (a) will (b) can
(a) inclusive (b) comprehensive (c) could (d) would
(c) absolute (d) exclusionary 494. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2.
485. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3. (a) has been (b) was
(a) figure (b) profile (c) were (d) are
(c) shape (d) outline 495. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3.
486. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4. (a) revise (b) fix
(a) renovate (b) transgress (c) modify (d) stop
(c) transform (d) redo 496. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.
487. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5. (a) side (b) influence
(a) atomistic (b) dated (c) affect (d) effect
(c) holistic (d) total 497. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.
In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the (a) issues (b) failure
passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in (c) quarrel (d) contestation
each blank. (SSC Stenographer 2022) In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the
Sportsmanship can be thought of as a sustaining and reasonably passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in
stable attribute or possession that (1)________ individuals on each blank. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
the basis of how they are expected to behave in sporting circum- Due to the fact that Shakespeare didn’t produce an autobiogra-
stances. Overall, sportsmanship makes reference to (2)________at- phy, (1)______ is known about many parts of his life and some of
tributes such as fair play, self-control, fortitude and persever- it remains a (2)______! Sometime before 1590, Shakespeare left
ance, and (3)________ been associated with personal and social Stratford. But where did he go? Again, it is not clear why, al-
concepts such as treating others equitably and receiving fair and though one story suggests it is because he had been forced to
equal treatment, (4)________self-control when interacting with run away from home after poaching deer! Little is known about
others, and showing respect for both, authority and opposition what he did but eventually he travelled to London, which was the
groups. Additionally, sportsmanship is defined as the way an biggest city in England, though much (3)______ than it is today.
individual (5)________ to athletics and all the sports. London provided opportunities unavailable anywhere else in the
488. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1. country and many poor people went hoping to make their for-
(a) identifies (b) defines tunes. Importantly for Shakespeare, London had theatres! The
(c) modifies (d) distinguishes first of these was opened in 1576 and by 1590 there were several
489. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2. ‘playhouses’ including the Rose, the Theatre and the Curtain.
(4)______, Shakespeare became an actor. However, he was soon
(a) average (b) total writing plays too and by 1592, Shakespeare’s work was being spo-
(c) negative (d) positive ken about. One (5)______ writer – Robert Greene – wrote rude
490. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3. things about this newcomer and referred to him as an ‘upstart
crow’. Disaster struck in 1593 when a terrible disease called the
(a) had (b) have plague hit London. Thousands of people became unwell and died
(c) has (d) have had and this caused the theatres to shut. Rather than giving up,
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 49

Shakespeare turned to writing poems rather than plays and soon Comprehension:
the theatres were reopened. In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read
498. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 1 the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to
(a) little (b) insufficient fill in each blank. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
(c) miniscule (d) ample A broad definition of wetlands (1)_______ ecosystems such as
499. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 2 lakes and rivers, underground aquifers, swamps, coral reefs, and
(a) secret (b) history many others; but also, human-made artificial sites (2)_______
(c) exotic (d) mystery fishponds or reservoirs. Though they cover only around 6 per
500. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 3 cent of the Earth’s land surface, 40 per cent of all plant and animal
(a) smaller (b) bigger species live or breed in them. Wetlands are also vital for human
(c) younger (d) larger wellbeing and security. More than a billion people across the
501. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 4 world depend on them for their livelihoods, about one in eight
(a) Primitively (b) Initially people on Earth. According to the UN Environment Programme
(c) Firstly (d) First of all (UNEP), these ecosystems are also the unsung heroes of the
502. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 5. climate crisis. In fact, they (3)_______ more carbon than any
(a) inferior (b) jealous other ecosystem, with peatlands alone storing twice (4)_______
(c) bad (d) rude all the world fs forests. And inland wetland ecosystems absorb
503. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. excess water and help prevent floods and drought, something
Some people are in the habit of sharing________ and bull critical to help communities adapt to a changing climate.
story on unsuitable occasions.(SSC Sub-Inspector 2022) In the words of Leticia Carvalho, Principal Coordinator for Marine
(a) fox (b) wolf and Freshwater at UNEP, healthy wetlands epunch above their
(c) cock (d) rooster weight in terms of benefits’. The theme for the very first World
Comprehension: Day is ”Wetlands Action for People and Nature”. It serves as an
Read the passage carefully and answer the following question. urgent call to act and to invest financial, human, and political
Reservation is a part of 1________ action, which seeks to bring capital, to save the world’s wetlands from disappearing altogether
equality. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022) - and to restore those areas already lost. Wetlands are disappearing
The Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty Fourth Amendment) three times (5)_______ forests and are Earth’s most threatened
Bill, 2019, seeks to provide for the advancement of eeconomically ecosystem. In just 50 years -since 1970 - 35 per cent of the world’s
weaker sections’s of citizens. Article 15 of the Constitution wetlands have evaporated.
2________ discrimination against any citizen on the grounds of 509. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank 1.
race, religion, caste, sex or place of birth. However, the government (a) leave out (b) omit
may make special provisions for the 3________ of socially and (c) excludes (d) includes
educationally backward classes or for Scheduled Castes or 510. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank 2.
Scheduled Tribes. The Bill seeks to amend Article 15 to additionally (a) more as (b) as much as
permit the government to provide for the advancement of (c) such as (d) much as
eeconomically weaker sections’s. Further, up to 10% of the seats 511. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank 3.
may be 4________ for such sections for admission in educational (a) have (b) has
institutions. Such reservation will not apply to minority educational (c) store (d) stored
institutions. 512. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank 4.
504. Identify a suitable title for the passage above. (a) as long as (b) as much as
(a) Prohibition of discrimination (c) as such as (d) as more as
(b) Article 15
513. Select the most appropriate option to fill blank 5.
(c) Constitution (124th Amendment) Bill 2019
(a) faster than (b) fastest than
(d) Reservation for Equality
505. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 1. (c) much than (d) more than
(a) effective (b) ineffective 514. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(c) directive (d) corrective My grandfather was a farmer and he ___________three
506. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 2. acres of land. (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
(a) exhibits (b) prohibits (a) cultivated (b) advanced
(c) establishes (d) inhibits (c) grown (d) cultured
507. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 3. 515. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
(a) containment (b) postponement The writer declares that __________ children of their
(c) advancement (d) enhancement childhood is a criminal act. (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
508. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 4. (a) robbing (b) robbed
(a) preserved (c) rob (d) to rob
(b) reserved 516. In the following passage, some words have been deleted.
(c) deserved Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate
(d) conserved option to fill in each blank. (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
 50 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

When we believe that our mind is thinking ______ thoughts word pektos meaning solid or clotted. The ancient
at the same time, what actually is happening is that (3)._______covered their bread with oils, herbs and cheese. The
__________ thoughts are __________ in such quick first major(4)._______that led to flat bread pizza was the use of
___________ so as to seem simultaneous tomato as a topping. It was common for the poor of the area
(a) homogenous, measurable, unchanging, velocity around Naples to add (5)._______ to their yeast-based flat
(b) challenging, limited, fixed, interruption bread, and so the pizza began. (SSC CHSL 2023)
(c) multiple, myriad, alternating, succession 520. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank No.1.
(d) uniform, countable, altering, ramification (a) pervaded (b) arcaded
517. Fill in the blank with the most suitable word. (c) assumed (d) invented
A haze of panic blurred my vision; something terrible was 521. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank No.2.
close to_________. (SSC CHSL 2023) (a) align (b) origin
(a) happened (b) happening (c) villain (d) bulletin
(c) happens (d) has happened 522. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank No.3.
518. Fill in the blank with an appropriate option. (a) Indians
AWS offers various storage services that can____data for (b) Greeks
your website. (SSC CHSL 2023)
(c) Romans
(a) store (b) stack
(c) pour (d) barge (d) Spaniards
519. Fill in the blank with an appropriate option. 523. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank No.4.
No matter how many times I try, I always end up in the (a) observation (b) aggravation
same__________. (SSC CHSL 2023) (c) innovation (d) cultivation
(a) sauce (b) meal 524. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank No.5.
(c) pickle (d) account (a) potato
Directions : In the following passage, some words have been (b) onion
deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. (c) herb
Select the most appropriate option for each blank. (d) tomato
The modern pizza was originally (1)._______in Naples, Italy but
the word pizza is Greek in (2)._______, derived from the Greek

HINTS & EXPLANATIONS

1. (a) was it ? – is the correct question tag 15. (d) Correct use of type 3 conditional.
2. (c) Must have a dentist filling is the correct use of tense. 16. (a) correct use of zero infinitive
3. (d) Correct use of tense in the given context 17. (b) I assume that every one agrees is correct use.
4. (c) 'into' expresses a movement as a result of which 18. (c) Preserving is the right option in the given context.
something gets surrounded by something else. 19. (d) Correct use of conditional
5. (d) It means a striking alteration in appearance, character 20. (a) Head in the phrasal verb here means to begin.
etc. 21. (a) 22. (c) 23. (a) 24. (b) 25. (d)
6 (a) Idiom take cognizance of something means: to 26. (c) 27. (b) 28. (d) 29. (c) 30. (b)
understand or consider something to take notice of 31. (b) 32. (c) 33. (a) 34. (c) 35. (d)
something. 36. (b) 37. (d) 38. (c) 39. (a) 40. (b)
7. (b) Whoever wins is the correct use 41. (b) Two days ahead of conventional date is correct use as
8. (a) The word wither means : to become less or weaker. the fixed date february 26 is given.
9. (b) Accountable to God for his actions is the correct use. 42. (c) Sorry for the correct prepositional use
10. (c) Didn’t he? – is the correct question tag. 43. (d) ‘He assured’ means ‘He made sure’ thus, he assured is
11. (c) Correct use of past tense the correct use.
12. (c) Correct use for saying where information or ideas have 44. (a) Needn't worry is correct
come from. 45. (d) Site which means location is the correct use.
13. (c) Unless the conjunction is correctly used here for saying 46. (a) Motif means a pattern or design.
that if something does not happen, something else will 47. (d) had recognised is the correct tense
happen. 48. (d) so shall you reap is correct.
14. (a) Poachers are those people who catch and kill animals 49. (c) On is the correct use of preposition
illegally and thus, it is the right option in the given 50. (b) correct use of to infinitive
context.
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 51

51. (d) 52. (b) 53. (d) 54. (a) 55. (d) 125. (d) Deal with = to be about something.
56. (c) Because Example: Her poems often deal with the subject of
57. (a) Healthy death.
58. (a) Inspite of 126. (a) The word 'prejudice' will fill in the blank because here,
59. (c) Decrepit it means something or opinion which is not based on
60. (d) Sporadic reason or experience and hence, it seems to get
61. (d) dispense with is the correct phrasal verb conflicted with original thoughts
62. (c) 63. (d) 64. (a) 127. (d) The phrase 'as well as of a' will fill in the blank as
65. (a) correct use of tense children are considered to shape the future of a nation
66. (b) Huddle : come close in a group along with carrying the goodwill of a family.
67. (b) Right use of as - as comparison 128. (b) The word 'averted' will fill in the blank. It is also the
68. (c) No matter is used to say that the truth of a statement synonym for the word 'avoid' and hence it can be
is not changed or affected by the way a situation is understood that if strict measures were taken then the
thought about or described. tragedy would have been avoided.
69. (b) Conducive to is the correct prepositional use. 129. (a) The word 'behind' will fill in the blank. The sentence
70. (b) 71. (c) 72. (b) 73. (a) 74. (b) means that the deceased (the person who recently
75. (d) 76. (a) 77. (c) 78. (c) 79. (b) died), left behind him children.
80. (a) 81. (c) 82. (d) 83. (a) 84. (b) 130. (d) The phrase 'stands as' will fill in the blank because it
85. (c) 86. (d) 87. (a) 88. (b) 89. (c) means to signify.
90. (d) 91. (a) 92. (d) 93. (a) 94. (b) 131. (c) ‘Take over’, here, means came into force or effect
95. (a) 96. (c) 97. (c) 98. (b) 99. (b) 132. (b) interesting, exciting or fortunate
100. (a) 133. (a) with; into, here, it means consisting of and plunged
101. (a) Utilize means to use something, especially for a practical 134. (a) heavily or massively
purpose 135. (d) with is the right preposition
102. (b) Dilly–dally means to take too long to do something, 136. (a) accomplished, proficient or skilful
go somewhere or make a decision. 137. (d) Over; Advantage over means to have an edge.
103. (c) Adept means good at doing something: skilful. 138. (c) of, here it means cured of, get rid of to be free
Adopt means to take some-body's child into your family. 139. (c) is, as it is a singular word
104. (a) Penultimate means before the last one. 140. (a) Hand over or give the responsibility to other person
105. (a) Pugnacious = having a strong desire to fight with other 141. (a) 142. (d) 143. (c) 144. (a) 145. (c)
people 146. (a) The correct word that will fit the blank is 'impudence'.
Malicious = having or showing hatred and a desire to 'Impudence' means 'not to show the proper respect'.
harm somebody Hence, the word suits the meaning of the sentence.
Sagacious = showing good judgement 147. (b) The correct word that will fit the blank is 'feeble'. 'Feeble'
Tenacious = persistent; continuing to exist means 'weak'. Hence, the word suits the meaning of the
106. (c) All is not well in is the correct use. sentence.
107. (b) Tie-up = an agreement between two companies to join 148. (a) The correct word that will fit the blank is 'retrieve'. 'Re-
together. trieve' means to 'get or bring back'. Hence, the word
108. (a) Slip into = to go in earlier situation. aptly suits the meaning of the sentence.
109. (c) Here, Simple Past should be used. 149. (c) The correct word that will fit the blank is 'over'. As it is
110. (a) Come of = to be the result of something. given in the sentence, 'make over' means to 'renew or
111. (b) Since is usually followed by a time expression ('last renovate something'. Hence, the preposition 'over' will
year', 'this morning', '4 o'clock' etc) or by a clause in the suit the meaning of the sentence.
simple past tense. Use the present perfect or the past 150. (c) The correct word that will fit the blank is 'augurs'. 'Au-
perfect in the other clause. gurs' means 'something that will proceed well'. Hence,
112. (a) spiritual discourse the word suits the meaning of the sentence.
113. (c) 114. (a) 115. (d) 116. (b) 117. (d) 151. (b) China is a big country. In area it is bigger than any
118. (c) 119. (b) 120. (c) other country except Russia. [except means other than,
121. (a) Dependent on = needing somebody / something in order accept means consent, expect means to anticipate and
to survive or be successful; affected or decided by access means entrance].
something. 152. (a) The masks worn by the men helped them conceal their
122. (b) Take your leave = to say good bye. identity. Conceal means hide.
123. (c) 153. (b) On the auspicious occasion of Laxmi puja, the Mathurs
124. (d) Combat = to stop something unpleasant or harmful bought a new car.
from happening.
 52 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

154. (b) Precautions are to be taken with anyone who seems 181. (d) Pursue means carry out or participate in an activity; be
infectious. [ infectious means likely to transmit or spread involved in or go in search of or hunt for something.
in a rapid manner. Contagious and diseased is not used Ex: She pursued many activities.
in this context because they refers to already having 182. (c) Making is in singular; hence, 'is' the correct helping
infection]. verb.
155. (d) The treasure was hidden off the shore. When 183. (d) Infested with is the correct prepositional phrase in the
something is hidden "off the shore," it just means that given context.
it's hidden somewhere near it. 184. (d) On foot means running or walking using the feet.
156. (d) Is not learning superior to wealth? Example–My car won't work so I have to travel on foot.
157. (d) A group of agitators incited the mob to break down We go everywhere around the campus on foot. He
the Vice- Chancellor's door. (Incited means encourage went there on foot.
or stir up (violent or unlawful behaviour). 185. (a) Up and about means no longer in bed (after sleep or an
158. (b) Turn the lights off before you go to bed. illness).
159. (d) There is no factual evidence to support your assertion. 186. (a) Arrive means to reach a destination by movement or
160. (a) Throw a stone at the fierce dog. To throw a stone to progress; happen denotes an event coming to pass (in
someone is so that they catch it, though if they do not time, so that it is real and actual at some time); occur
you might unintentionally hit them with the stone also means (of an event) coming to pass (in time, so
instead. But, to throw a Stone at someone is that it is real and actual at some time); come means
intentionally to hit them with the stone. happen or arrive, example: Dawn comes early in June.
161. (d) It is cool today, isn't it? is the right question tag 187. (c) The phrase call up here denotes having and bringing
162. (c) The book ultimately reached the person to whom it to mind a memory of something; bringing back
belonged. knowledge from memory.
163. (c) Besides being reputed, he is famous for his humility. 188. (c) Up (one's) sleeve means hidden but ready to be used:
He still has a few tricks up his sleeve.
164. (c) There was a queue of people in the rain, patiently waiting
189. (d) The phrase day by day means gradually and
to get onto the coach. Onto has the word to in it, which
progressively; "his health is weakening day by day."
reminds us that its meaning includes the sense of
190. (b) The police could only fire the mob when it turned
movement towards something. The preposition on
violent.
does not have this sense of movement, and it tells you
191. (b) 192. (a) 193. (a) 194. (c) 195. (a)
only about location.
196. (a) The phrase means to reach the necessary stated
165. (a) I had a terrible dream last night.
standard
166. (c) Mr. Ahamad went through a very tough time, when he
197. (c) ‘Keep up’ means move or progress at the same rate.
incurred a loss in his business.
198. (a) ‘Came’ is the correct use of tense
167. (c) The lawyer advised the convict not to hold back 199. (b) ‘Slowdown’ means a decline or a reduction.
anything. 200. (c) Consists of means comprises of
168. (a) Hospital services across the capital were disrupted for 201. (a) Have you heard is correct use.
three hours due to the strike. 202. (d) Here ‘remarked’ refers to giving your opinion about
169. (d) The school Annual Sports Day is postponed and it something or stating a fact.
would now be held on the 14th of next month. The 203. (c) Since ‘irritable’ means showing a tendency to be easily
sentence is in passive form of past participle. annoyed, it is the correct option.
170. (a) The coach leaves at 5:20, so get to the station before 204. (d) 205. (c) 206. (a) 207. (b) 208. (c)
that. 209. (c) 210. (d) 211. (c) 212. (b) 213. (b)
171. (c) Delhi is the capital of India. (The sentence is in present 214. (b) 215. (a) 216. (c) 217. (a) 218. (c)
tense). 219. (b) Since ‘observe’ means to watch something carefully,
172. (c) People from all parts of the country come to Delhi. it is correct option
173. (d) There are many historical buildings. 220. (d) Since ‘heavenly’ means belonging to the heavens or
174. (a) People visit the Rajghat, Shantivan and Vijaygath. sky, it is the correct option in the given context.
175. (d) We visited Delhi last year with our cousins. 221. (c) ‘With’ is the right preposition.
176. (b) There are many other historical cities. 222. (a) Since ‘astronomers’ are the experts who study the stars
177. (c) Agra is one of them. and planets using scientific equipments such as
178. (a) We will visit Agra and Jaipur next time. telescopes, it is the correct option in the given context.
179. (b) The Red Fort of Delhi and Hawa Mahal of Jaipur were 223. (d) 224. (b) 225. (c) 226. (d) 227. (a)
very famous. 228. (c) 229. (d) 230. (a)
180. (d) for their Mughal and Rajasthani architecture 231. (a) ‘On’ is the correct prepositional use
respectively. 232. (c) delighted is the correct use of tense
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 53

233. (c) ‘Preliminary discussions’ means 'initial discussions' 337. (c) 'period' is the most appropriate word.
234. (b) has been deteriorating is the correct tense. 338. (d) 'face' is the most appropriate word.
235. (c) at is the correct preposition 339. (a) 'ambitions' is the most appropriate word.
236. (d) Mudslides do not erupt, they trigger. 340. (b) 'inspiration' is the most appropriate option.
237. (a) ‘A’ university is the correct use of article. We can’t 341. (a) 'moment' is the most appropriate option.
use ‘An’ before university because despite the 342. (c) 'jotted' is the most appropriate option.
presence of ‘U’ in the word (which is a vowel), it does 343. (a) 'absolutely' is the most appropriate option.
not have a vowel pronounciation. 344. (a) 'impossible' is the most appropriate option.
238. (b) I have no either is the correct option in the given 345. (c) 'skill' is the most appropriate option.
context. 346. (d) 'whether' is the most appropriate option.
239. (d) 240. (c) 241. (a) 242. (d) 243. (b) 347. (a) 'possess' is the most appropriate option.
244. (c) 245. (c) 246. (d) 247. (c) 248. (b) 348. (b) 'unique' is the most appropriate option.
249. (a) 250. (c) 251. (c) 252. (b) 253. (a) 349. (b) 'communications' is the most appropriate option.
254. (a) 255. (c) 256. (a) 257. (b) 258. (d) 350. (b) 'style' is the most appropriate option.
259. (a) 260. (d) 261. (d) 262. (c) 263. (c) 351. (c) 'period' is the most appropriate option.
264. (c) 265. (b ) 266. (b) 267. (b) 268. (a) 352. (a) 'distinctly' is the most appropriate option.
269. (c) 270. (a) 271. (c) 272. (b) 273. (d) 353. (b) 'describe' is the most appropriate option.
274. (d) 275. (d) 276. (b) 277. (a) 278. (b) 354. (d) 'artists' is the most appropriate option.
279. (c) 280. (c) 281. (c) 282. (b) 283. (c) 355. (a) 'movements' is the most appropriate option.
284. (b) 285. (c) 286. (a) 287. (a) 288. (b) 356. (d) 'similarities' is the most appropriate option.
289. (c) 290. (d) 291. (b) 292. (d) 293. (c) 357. (a) 'limitations' is the most appropriate option.
294. (d) 295. (b) 296. (c) 297. (b) 298. (b) 358. (a) 'movements' is the most appropriate option.
299. (b) 300. (d) 301. (b) 302. (d) 303. (c) 359. (c) 'periods' is the most appropriate option.
304. (a) 305. (a) 306. (d) 307. (c) 308. (b) 360. (b) 'for' is the most appropriate word.
309. (a) 310. (b) 311. (b) 312. (a) 313. (c) 361. (c) 'and' is the most appropriate word.
314. (d) 315. (a) 316. (d) 317. (a) 318. (b) 362. (a) 'before' is the most appropriate word.
319. (a) 320. (d) 321. (a) 322. (d) 363. (b) 'of' is the most appropriate word.
323. (c) ‘Expertise’ refers to expert knowledge or skill in a 364. (b) 'amused' is the most appropriate word.
particular subject or activity. ‘Financial expertise’ is 365. (b) As soon as this workshop is over, I am going to
the correct usage in the given context. abandon every duty and go on a holiday.
324. (d) ‘Exploit’ means to treat someone unfairly to get benefit 366. (c) She draws great pleasure and satisfaction from
for yourself. In the given context, it is the most cooking.
appropriate usage of the word. 367. (c) Poetry is a compressed form of expression in which the
325. (c) Since, the sentence refers to something that has particularity of the word and the image to evoke
happened in present tense. So, the its verb form should feeling, assumes great importance.
be in present perfect tense. Only option (c) is in the 368. (a) He was so filled with contempt for the prisoner that he
appropriate tense. gave him a humiliated look.
326. (c) The ‘of’ after the blank indicates that there should be 369. (c) Next summer, we are going on a trip to Canada.
a noun in the blank. In the given context ‘emergence 370. (b) Romeo and Juliet’s covert affair is probably the most
of powerful internet monopolies’ makes the most loved of all times.
appropriate sense. 371. (b) The ascent towards the school was very steep.
327. (b) There is comparative form ‘bigger’ before the blank. It [Ascend means go up or climb.]
should be followed by ‘than’ to make the sentence 372. (a) Some interesting matters came up in our discussion
correct. yesterday.
328. (a) In the given context, ‘Virtues of monopoly’ is the 373. (b) He loaded the bales of cotton on the truck. [Bales mean
correct usage. large quantity of something tied together tightly]
329. (d) The phrase ‘freeze out’ means to prevent someone 374. (d) Anything is possible which is not against the nature
from taking part in something. In the given context, its of things.
use is appropriate. 375. (d) The use of ‘deprived’ makes the sentence meaningful.
330. (d) 'qualified' is the most appropriate word. Rest of the options are contextually incorrect.
331. (b) 'fall away' is the most appropriate option. 376. (d) ‘One another’ means each other.
332. (d) 'fewer' is the most appropriate word. 377. (c) ‘Situation’ is the most appropriate word to be used
333. (a) 'for' is the most appropriate word. here.
334. (b) 'with' is the most appropriate option. 378. (c) From the later part of the passage, it can be ascertained
335. (b) 'best' is the most appropriate word. that ‘fight’ will be the correct word to fill the blank.
336. (a) 'rejoice' is the most appropriate word.
 54 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

379. (b) ‘Matter’ is the most appropriate word to be used here. 'Consist' means be composed or made up of
380. (b) Use of ‘at least’ makes the sentence meaningful and 'Collect' means 'to gather something'
contextually correct. 430. (b) 'In' is the correct preposition before the place name
381. (b) Extended (city)
382. (a) Negligent means failing to take proper care over 431. (d) The word 'steadily' means 'in a regular way,
something. Devoted means very loving or loyal; caring continuously' is the correct option.
means displaying kindness and concern for others 432. (c) Preposition 'across' is the correct option.
and affectionate means readily feeling or showing 433. (c) Vital
fondness or tenderness. The word ‘vital’ means important, significant is the
383. (d) The most appropriate word is the adjective right option. Other options are not correct contextually.
'industrialised' which means 'Develop industries in (a 434. (b) Options (a) and (c) are get eliminated being irrelevant
country or region) on a wide scale, 'the industrialized here. The word ‘conscious’ is the more suitable word
nations'. Other options do not fit into the context. than ‘important’. Hence, option (b) is the right option.
384. (d) The word 'turtles' has already been mentioned in the 435. (d) Ability
paragraph, hence the correct option (a). If someone is able to read, write and speak then his
385. (b) Turtles are reptiles which have shells. Other options chances of success get higher.Hence, option (d) is the
are related to 'birds'. right answer.
386. (a) The sentence talks of the turtles being grown which 436. (c) Preposition ‘to’ is the right option in the given context
must be in length, hence, option (a). grammatically.
387. (b) Since the paragraph talks of the mating place of turtles, 437. (b) Overcome means defeat or conquer (passivity, evil,
it must be on the beach. barriers). Hence, option (b) is the right answer.
388. (b) Most of reptiles including turtles lay eggs. 438. (c) Fragile
389. (b) 390. (b) 391. (a) 392. (b) 393. (a) 394. (a) Fragile means easily broken; damaged.
395. (c) 396. (a) 397. (d) 398. (a) 399. (d) 400. (c) Frugal means personswho live frugal lives do not eat
401. (b) 402. (d) 403. (d) 404. (b) 405. (c) 406. (c) much or spend much.
407. (a) 408. (b) 409. (c) Volatility and ductility are not the properties of glass.
410. (b) 'pursue' is the most suitable word to make the sentence Hence, option (c) is the right option.
contextually correct. 439. (a) Encouraged which is option a is the correct response
411. (a) as the rest of the options don't make much sense.
412. (c) 'Confirm' is the most appropriate word to use in this 440. (b) The hint is- doors were closed. Thus, the response is
sentence. before we could enter it.
413. (a) 'obstructing' is the correct word to fill the blank 441. (b) 'Would' you like some water? Would is used to express
correctly. Obstruct means to block or get in the way. an intention or plan after a verb in a past tense.
414. (d) The use of 'won¢t' makes the sentence contextually 442. (c) We must start now 'or' it will be too late. Two alternatives
correct. are stated here one says we must leave now and the
415. (d) 416. (a) 417. (d) 418. (c) 419. (a) 420. (b) other says it will be too late. The word or links these
421. (b) 422. (b) alternatives.
423. (a) 'Clean it up' is a phrasal verb which means to make a 443. (b) The tone of the sentence is a general one so we use
place clean and tidy. 'often'.
424. (a) Here two contrasting situations are mentioned so 444. (c) Along means moving a constant direction.
conjunction 'although' is corect choice. 445. (d) From here indicates a starting point and the mention
425. (b) 'picked' is the correct option as 'raised' and 'lifted' are when he was a seven year old is a starting point.
used to improve level of someting, 'lifted' to take 446. (a) part in-indicates to be involved in.
something up by hand and 'dropped up' is not possible. 447. (a) Economical-means giving good value.
426. (a) launched and 'has launched' are used when the action 448. (b) Exempted means to be free from a liability imposed on
has taken place and 'launch' shows regularty but the others. 'Less than' indicates low salary thus an
action is going to happen so ‘is launching’ is the correct exemption from paying tax.
answer other options do not fit correct. 449. (d)
427. (a) 'Consent' is the correct option 'agreement' and
'allowance' (informer) are used formally and dissent 450. (a) Slammed means shut forcefully or loudly. 'Strong wind'
does not make proper sense. in the sentence is a hint which suggests that the door
428. (c) 'From' is the correct answer other 'prepositions' do not shut loudly due to it.
fit correct. 451. (c) Option (c) is the correct response. 'Growth rate' goes
429. (a) 'Constituted' means 'to be one of the parts that form well together and thus is a collocation. Collocations are
something' is the correct option. words which go together like-sir down and stand up
'Construct' means 'to build or make something' etc.
Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test 55

452. (c) Because the question states that scientists are engaged 474. (c) Efforts is the right answer as it refers to the attempts
in finding out a vaccine for Covid, the word for it is made by the government along with other agencies to
reduce road accidents in the country.
investigating and not researching. As verbs the
475. (a) “achieving” fits the blank appropriately making the
difference between investigate and research is that sentence grammatically correct and contextually
investigate is to inquire into or study, while research is meaningful.
to search or examine. Therefore, the answer is option c- 476. (a) As sentence is in positive degree, ‘larger’ and ‘smaller’
investigating. can not be used here. It is geometrical rule that four
453. (d) Carried out: to put into execution. equal angles has the four equal sides.
477. (b) visionary means – having great plans for the future
454. (d) Oblivious means to not be aware of the real world
Ram was praised for his visionary leadership.
outside. Option (d) -oblivious is the correct response
478. (a) The correct answer is ‘forward’ because the tribesmen
as other options don't fit in.
carefully volunteered to collect the items that were left
455. (b) Nehru Planetarium is not common noun that article 'a'
behind by the officials. To ‘come forward’ is a phrasal
will be employed. It does not begin with vowels -AEIOU, verb which means to do a task willingly.
that article 'an' should be employed. Its only one singular
479. (d) Since the passage refers to an animal (blue whale), words
entity, so any cannot be used. Therefore, 'The' is used
like ‘specimens’ and ‘extinction’ should be used.
here as it's a proper noun.
‘Specimen’ means an example of a certain species.
456. (d) 'Could you please help me with my computer?' is the
‘Extinction’ refers to the vanishing of a species. Thus,
appropriate words to fill in the blank as the rest of the both the words suit the given context.
options are not grammatically correct.
480. (c) ‘On purpose’ means to do something deliberately. Note,
457. (a) Someone who is cheerful is often easy-going as well.
while ‘on purpose’ is grammatically correct, the phrase
458. (d) 'Was' is a past simple of 'be'. When something is to
‘on deliberate’ does not exist.
take place we use 'be' and when it has taken place we
use 'was'. 481. (b) Note that the sentence requires us to fill a word that
459. (a) Off as a preposition means moving away and often gives a meaning similar to the following sentence, ‘The
down from. easiest way to get started is to use your imagination
460. (a) 'Is' is the third person singular of the present tense of and maturity.’ The word that comes closest to the word
be. ‘way’ is ‘approach’. Thus, ‘approach’ is the correct
461. (b) That is sometimes used to state an idea. answer.
462. (c) Because of the preposition 'to' it will be simple past 482. (a) The word ‘even’ provides the emphasis that the
tense 'gets married'. sentence requires. Other words on the list fail to do so.
463. (d) In case- as a provision against something happening
483. (a) ‘The foundational pillars’ refers to a base on which
or being true. However and although are used to negate
an alr eady stated statement. And suppose is something is built. The NEP has for its base, the
hypothetical/ to think of something as true or probable. principles of Equity, Access, Quality and Affordability.
Therefore, in case is the correct response. 484. (b) Notice the article ‘a’ in the passage. ‘A’ precedes a
464. (b) 'last night' serves as a hint that its in the past tense so consonant. Thus option (b) is the right answer.
we use simple past tense here-saw. 485. (d) Consider ‘Vocational training’ like a course in the
465. (d) Preposition 'with' means someone or something's sentence. A course has an ‘outline’. Thus, option (d) is
possessions, qualities. For example in the given the correct response.
sentence its stated that 'I don't agree 'with' your ideas.
486. (c) The objective of the NEP is to bring about a change in
These ideas belong to someone and therefore the usage
the country. Thus, the term ‘transform’ is the most
of with.
466. (c) At is used to describe the object's location. Whereas, appropriate option on the list.
'by' is used to indicate the means of achieving 487. (c) The aim of the NEP is to ‘make the country a global
something. knowledge superpower’ by creating a complete and an
467. (c) The sentence is in simple present tense and thus 'smell'. all-encompassing vibrant education system i.e. by
468. (c) We examine something thoroughly in order to study providing a ‘holistic’ education to its youth.
something carefully and in great detail. 488. (a) Sportsmanship is a quality that determines how one
469. (d) As per the context of the sentence, option (d) is correct. behaves in sporting circumstances. An individual is
Reckless means: careless. identified on the basis of his behaviour in a challenging
470. (c) As per the context, issue is correct. scenario. In other words, sportsmanship as an attribute,
471. (a) Regularly is the apt answer, as the issue of road safety is
‘identifies’ individuals on the basis of how they are
being taken seriously by the government on regular basis.
472. (b) Tackle is the most appropriate option as it means: block expected to behave in the sporting circumstance.
and stop. 489. (d) Fair play, self-control, fortitude and perseverance are
473. (a) Curb is apt option as it means: control and suppress. all positive qualities. Thus, option (d) is the correct
answer.
 56 Fill in the Blanks & Cloze Test

490. (c) As per subject-verb agreement, sportsmanship which 505. (d) Since India is a country where discrimination on the
is a singular subject takes the singular form of the verb basis of caste and creed is a real problem, reservation
‘has’. is a part of ‘corrective’ action.
491. (c) The blank will take an ‘–ing’ ending word, in league 506. (b) ‘To prohibit’ means ‘to strictly forbid’. Thus, the Indian
with the words before it like ‘treating’ and ‘receiving’. Constitution ‘prohibits’ discrimination.
So, option (c) is the correct response. 507. (c) ‘Advancement’ is a better option than ‘Enhancement’
492. (a) If read carefully, the word in blank should be a synonym because it fits well in the given context. Advancement
of the word ‘responds’. Thus, ‘reacts’ is the correct means progression and it indicates a gradual and
choice for this question. substantial development of the state of being of an
493. (d) One of the ways ‘would’ is used is in form of a modal individual or a group.
verb. It helps in conveying hope, belief or expectation. 508. (b) ‘Reserved’ aligns with the word ‘reservation’.
Hence, option (d) is the correct choice. 509. (d) Lakes, rivers, underground aquifers etc. are all part of
494. (d) Note that the tense of the passage has been set in the the wetlands. Therefore, these ecosystems are
first line with the verb ‘do’, which is in the present ‘included’ in the definition of wetlands.
tense. Therefore, ‘are’ is the correct answer as per tense 510. (c) Fishponds and reservoirs are examples of human-made
and subject-verb agreement rules. artificial sites. Therefore, option (3) ‘such as’ is the
495. (b) ‘Fix’ the dispute gives the sense of ‘resolve’ the dispute. correct answer.
To fix something means to make a correction or 511. (c) A fact is being stated here; hence we will use simple
improvement in a situation. present tense. So, option (3) ‘store’ is the correct
496. (d) The word ‘effect’ is a noun which means ‘impact’ response.
whereas ‘affect’ is a verb which means ‘to impact 512. (b) We use ‘as much as’ to indicate that two things are
something or have an effect on something’. Here, we equal in amount and degree. Here, the sentence means
need a noun after the adjective ‘detrimental’. Thus, that peat lands store two times more carbon than all
option (d) is the right answer. the forests in the world.
497. (d) The confrontational style is the source of argument or 513. (a) A comparison is being made in the given line, thus
debate. The synonym of ‘argument’ is ‘contestation’. comparative degree of the adjective should be used.
498. (a) ‘Little’ is used as an adverb here, suggesting ‘very ‘Faster than’ is the correct option.
less’ and is the right response. Rest of the words on 514. (a) Land is cultivated for the production of crops. Correct
the list of options are adjectives which would need statement: My grandfather was a farmer and he
corresponding nouns in this case. For example, with’ cultivated three acres of land.
insufficient’ we need a noun like ‘information’, 515. (a) Here, Robbing is a Gerund (Verbal noun with ing from)
otherwise the sentence would be incomplete. and it has been referred to a criminal act.
499. (d) Some of the information related to Shakespeare is 516. (c) As per the context of the passage, option (c) is correct.
unclear. Thus, it remains a ‘mystery’. Also, note the Myriad means: uncountable. Succession means:
exclamation at the end of the sentence. It suggests sequence.
suspense which is best conveyed through option (d). 517. (b) The phrase Close to happening means approaching,
500. (a) Earlier, Shakespearean England was bigger than the forthcoming and looming. Thus, option (d) is correct
England as it exists today. England was a unification of answer.
several kingdoms and territories. It is now ‘smaller’. 518. (a) As the sentence talks about storage devices then store
501. (b) Shakespeare started off as an actor i.e. at first, he was (verb) will be the right answer.
an actor. ‘At first’ gives the same meaning as ‘initially’. 519. (c) The Idiom In the same pickle means in a difficult
Thus, option (b) is the correct answer. situation. Thus, (c) is the correct answer.
502. (b) Factually, Robert Greene was envious of Shakespeare. 520. (d) Invent means to think of or make something for the
Hence, ‘jealous’ is the right option. first time.
503. (c) The idiom ‘cock and bull story’ means a superfluous 521. (b) Origin means the point from which something starts.
tale which is meant to deceive someone. 522. (b) As per the context of the passage, Greeks is the correct
answer.
504. (d) ‘Reservation for Equality’ is the most suitable title
523. (c) According to the context, Innovation is the apt word
because the passage is about reservation and equality.
that should be filled in the blank.
Article 15 and 124th Amendment Bill, are mentioned 524. (d) It is given in the earlier lines that the use of tomato as
to explain the legal practise of reservation in our a topping had already started.
country. The central idea is that of reservation itself.
Spotting Errors 57

4
4
Chapter
Spotting Errors

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 1-5) : In the following questions, some of the 15. The company has ordered (a) / some (b) / new equipments.
sentences have errors and some have none. Find out which part (c) / No error. (d)
of a sentence has an error. The number of that part is your answer. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 16-20) : In the following questions, some of
If there is no error, Your answer is (d) i.e., No error. the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out which
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2010) part of a sentence has an error and mark the appropriate letter (a,
1. He is a university professor (a)/ but of his three sons (b)/ b, c). If a sentence is free from errors, mark (d).
neither has any merit. (c)/ No error (d) (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2011)
2. After knowing truth, (a)/ they took the right decision (b)/ in
the matter. (c)/ No error (d) A great many student havebeen declared successful
16. / / /
3. It is time for you (a)/ decide on your next (b)/ course of (a) (b) (c)
action. (c)/ No error (d) Noerror
4. He who has suffered most (a)/ for the cause, (b)/ let him (d)
speak. (c)/ No error (d)
5. A cup of coffee (a)/ is an excellent complement (b)/ to smoked We are going to launch this three crores project/
17. /
salmon. (c)/ No error (d) (a) (b)
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 6-10) : In the following questions, some of the within the next few months Noerror
/
sentences have errors and some have none. Find out which part of (c) (d)
a sentence has an error. The number of that part is your answer. If
there is no error, your answer is (d). i.e. no error. I hope to go to shopping this weekend
18. /
(a) (b)
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2010)
6. Judge in him (a)/ prevailed upon the father (b)/ and he if the weather permits Noerror
sentenced his son to death. (c)/ No error (d). /
(c) (d)
7. Nine tenths (a)/ of the pillar (b)/ have rotted away. (c)/ No
error (d). The lawyer asked if it was worth to take
19. / /
8. One major reason (a)/ for the popularity of television is (b)/ (a) (b)
that most people like to stay at home. (c)/ No error (d). the matter to court No error
9. Our efforts are (a)/ aimed to bring about (b)/ a reconciliation. /
(c) (d)
(c)/ No error (d).
10. Three conditions (a)/ critical for growing (b)/ plants are soil, After a carefully investigation
20. /
temperature, chemical balance or amount of moisture (c)/ No (a)
error (d).
we discovered
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 11–15) : In the following questions, some of /
(B)
the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out which
part of a sentence has an error. The number of that part is the that the house was infested with termites
/
answer. If there is no error, your answer is (d) i.e. No error. (c)
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2011) Noerror
11. The future of food companies (a) / seems quite secure (b) / (d)
owed to ever–growing demand. (c) / No error. (d)
12. The vaccine (a)/ when hit the Indian market (b) / is dogged DIRECTIONS (Qs. 21-25) : In the following questions, some
by controversy. (c) / No error. (d) parts of the sentences have errors and some have none. Find out
13. His son (a) / is working (b) / very hardly. (c) / No error. (d) which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is free from
14. Do you know that it was I (a) / who has done (b) / this piece error, then your answer is (d), i.e., no error.
of beautiful work? (c) / No error. (d) (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012)
58 Spotting Errors

21. You do not / look as / your brother/ No error 34. Some categorically suspected (a) / having seen the (b)/ guard
(a) (b) (c) (d) and thief together. (c) No error (d)
22. My elder brother / is six / foot high. / No error 35. He was (a)/ not in a position to state (b)/ the speed the ship
(a) (b) (c) (d) travelled. (c)/ No error (d)
23. Without no proof of your guilt / the only course open to me /
(a) (b) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 36-40) : In the following questions, some
/ is to dismiss the case. / No error parts of the sentences have errors and some have none. Find out
(c) (d) which part of a sentence has an error. If there is no error, more
24. As we see it, / she appears to be unreasonable / (d) as your answer.
(a) (b) (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012)
anxious about pleasing her husband. / No error Air pollution, together with littering ,
(c) (d) 36.
(a )
25. The scissor is / lying on / the table. / No error
(a) (b) (c) (d) are causing many problems in our cities.
(b) (c)
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 26-30): In the following questions, some
parts of the sentences have errors and some have none. Find out No error.
which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is free from (d)
error, mark (d) as your answer. The accused refused to answer to the policeman
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012) 37.
(a) (b)
26. World is producing enough /
on duty. No error.
(a)
for every citizen but still there is hunger and malnutrition (c) (d)
(b) What is the use of me attending the session? No error.
and it is continuing year after year. / No error. 38. (d)
(a) (b) (c)
(c) (d)
27. The N.C.C. commandant along with his cadets / We met our prospective employer,
39. (a)
(a)
are going to Delhi / for a briefing session in the Taj Hotel. No error.
(b) (b) (c) (d)
to participate in the Republic Day Parade. / No error.
(c) (d) 40. Because of the severe snow storm and the road blocks,
28. He did not succeed / to get the job (a)
(a) (b) the air force dropped food and
though he tried his level best / No error.
(b)
(c) (d)
29. Many of the famous / advertising offices / medical supplies close to the city. No error.
(a) (b) (c) (d)
are located at Madison Avenue. / No error.
(c) (d) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 41-45) : In the following questions, some
30. Nature has denied us / the power of closing our ears/ parts of the sentences have errors and some have none. Find out
(a) (b) which part of a sentence has an error. If there is no error, your
which she gave in respect of our eyes. / No error. answer is (d). i.e. No error.
(c) (d) (SSC Sub. Ins. 2012)
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 31-35) : In the following questions, some 41. Having lived / in Kerala for ten years, /
parts of the sentences have errors and some have none. Find out (a) (b)
which part of a sentence has an error. The number of that part is my friend is used to speak Malayalam with his friends. /
the answer. If there is no error, then your answer is (d) i.e. No (c)
error. No Error
(d)
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012)
31. Instead of being (a)/ helpful he was (b)/ being hindrance. (c) 42. Much water / has flown / under this bridge / No error
/ No error (d) (a) (b) (c) (d)
32. Where (a)/ have I (b)/ to deposit fees ? (c)/ No error (d) 43. The law should specifically / provide a clause /
33. By the time she had finished her work (a)/ I had nearly given (a) (b)
up (b)/ all hope of arriving at the party in time. (c)/ to protect animals from poachers / No error
No error (d) (c) (d)
Spotting Errors 59

44. What kind / of a man / are you? / No error. The teacher, as well as the students
(a) (b) (c) (d) 53. /
(a)
45. The lady approached me timidly / and trembling slightly /
(a) (b) have gone on an excursion
she sat down besides me. / No error /
(b)
(c) (d)
to Ooty during their summer vacation No Error.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 46-51) : In the following questions, some /
(c) (d)
parts of the sentences have errors and some have none. Find out
which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is free from The US don ' t want Indian in theSecurity Council
error, then mark answer (d). i.e. No error. 54. / / /
(a) (b) (c)
(SSC CHSL 2012)
No Error
46. It was he who / came running in the house /
(d)
( a) ( b)
with the news about the earthquake. / No Error. The cruel lady made her step - daughter to do
55. / /
( c) ( d) (a) (b)

47. Her mother does not approve of / her to go to the party / all the household chores. No Error
/
(a) ( b) (c) (d)

without dressing formally. / No Error. My sister asked me that how long

56. / /
( c) ( d) (a) (b)
48. Riding across the battle field / the famous Bhishm / I would stay there. No Error
/
(a) ( b) (c) (d)
saw a large number of dead warriors. / No Error.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 57-61) : In the following questions, some
( c) ( d) parts of the sentences have errors and some have none. Find out
My Aunt / was first / to get a degree / No Error. which part of a sentence has an error corresponding to the
49.
appropriate letter (a, b, c). If a sentence is free from error, mark
(a) ( b) ( c) ( d) (d) as your answer.
50. Padmini had not rarely missed / (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2013)
(a) 57. I whistled thrice with full might and raise my arms
(a) (b)
a dance performance or festival since /
towards the sky. No error.
( b) (c) (d)
she was eight years old. / No Error. 58. Science and religion
( c) ( d) (a)
are both necessary for man and for their
51. Krupa and Kavya studied / in the Delhi Public School / (b)
(a) ( b) outer and inner self respectively. No error.
(c) (d)
and so does Kamya. / No Error.
59. At certain seasons, some areas on Mars
( c) ( d) (a) (b)
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 52-56) : In the following questions, some is subject to strong winds. No error.
parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out (c) (d)
which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is free form 60. As an artist Raju is as good
error, blacken the oval corresponding to (d) in the answer. (a) (b)
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) if not better than Ramesh. No error.
(c) (d)
You can eat as much as you like/ 61. The scientists could not hardly
52. /
(a) (b) (a) (b)
complete all the experiments. No error.
at the newly launch bar No Error
/ (c) (d)
(c) (d)
60 Spotting Errors

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 62-66) : In these questions, some parts of In India

the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out which 72.
(a)
part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is free from error,
your answer is (d). i.e. No error. working woman lead a life of dual responsibilities
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) (b)
62. If I was he (a)/ I wouldn't accept (b)/ this project. (c)/ No
if they are married and have a family No error
error (d)
63. The teacher advised to (a)/ the student to borrow (b)/ a (c) (d)
book from the library within three days. (c)/ No error (d) Greatly to our surprise we found the ringleader
64. I insisted (a)/ on his going (b)/ there immediately. (c)/ No 73. ,
(a) (b)
error (d)
65. Neither of the teams (a)/ are sensible enough (b)/ to do this was lame No error
task. (c)/ No error (d) (c) (d)
66. We have been knowing (a)/ each other (b)/ since we were
children. (c)/ No error (d) They have played a game last week
74.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 67-71) : In the following questions, some (a) (b) (c)
parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out
No error
which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is free from
error, your answer is (d) i.e. No error. (d)

(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) The teacher made the boys to do the sum
75.
Mohans' eyes reflect a hope (a) (b)
67. /
(a) (b) all over again No error
for a better future in Microsoft. No error. (c) (d)
/ / (d)
(c) Many overseas students attend colleges
76.
He went to Mumbai with a view to secure a job. (a) (b)
68. / / /
(a) (b) (c)
in the Great Britain No error
No error. (c) (d)
(d)
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 77-81) : In the following questions, some
The Headmaster with all his senior teachers parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out
69.
(a) which part of a sentence has an error. The number of that part is
the answer. If a sentence is free from error, then your answer is
have come to attend the meeting. No error.
/ / / (d). i.e., No error.
(b) (c) (d)
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2013)
The teacher said that 77. When one hears of the incident (a)/ about the plane crash
70. (a) /
(b)/ he feels very sorry. (c)/ No error (d)
78. I went there (a)/ with a view to survey (b)/ the entire procedure.
the building adjacent with his house
(c)/ No error (d)
(b) 79. It had laid (a)/ in the closet (b)/ for a week before we found it.
needed repairs. No error. (c)/ No error (d)
/ / (d) 80. He was present (a)/ in the court (b)/ to give witness. (c)/ No
(c)
error (d)
Grapes cannot gathered from thistles. No error. 81. He laughed (a)/ her (b)/ as she fell off the tree. (c) / No error (d)
71. (a) / / / (d)
(b) (c)
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 82-86) : In the following questions, some
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 72-76) : In the following questions, some parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out
parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is free from
which part of a sentence has an error corresponding to the error, mark (d) as your answer.
appropriate letter (a, b, c). If a sentence is free from error, mark (SSC CHSL 2013)
(d) as your answer. 82. Hasan plays (a) / both – Cricket and Billiards (b) /at the
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) national level. (c) / No error. (d)
Spotting Errors 61

83. My father gave me (a) / a pair of binocular (b) / on my 101. Vijay is / very cleverer / than Ram. / No error.
birthday. (c) / No error. (d) (a) (b) (c) (d)
84. Kalidas is (a) / a Shakespeare (b) /of India. (c) / No error. (d) 102. No sooner did / the police arrive /the robbers ran
85. The teacher as well as his students, (a) / all left (b) / for the (a) (b) (c)
trip. (c) / No error. (d) away. / No error
86. More you (a) / think of it, (b) / the worse it becomes.(c) / No (d)
error. (d) 103. I know / a doctor / you are referring to. No error.
(a) (b) (c) (d)
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 87-96) : In the following questions, some 104. Smoke from diesel engines / become visible / as the carbon
parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out (a) (b) (c)
which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is free from content increases./ No error.
error, mark (d) as your answer. (d)
(SSC Multitasking 2013) 105. The moon / is shining / brightly tonight, is it? / No error.
(a) (b) (c) (d)
87. I and him / are / very good friends. / No error.
106. There was great excitement / on planet of Mars this week, /
(a) (b) (c) (d)
(a) (b)
88. One should / look after / their parents. / No error.
wasn't there ? / No error.
(a) (b) (c) (d)
(c) (d)
89. She placed / the offering / to God in the altar. / No error.
(a) (b) (c) (d) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 107-111): In the following questions, some
90. Teachers were instructed / to follow an uniform method / of parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out
(a) (b) which part of a sentence has an error corresponding to the
evaluation. / No error. appropriate letter (a, b, c). If a sentence is free from error, mark
(c) (d) (d).
91. The newspapers they admit that / advertising sometimes /
(a) (b) (SSC CGL 2014)
influences their editorial policy. / No error. If I would have realised
(c) (d) 107. /
(a)
92. No sooner did I finish / my speech, I was subjected / to a
(a) (b) what a bad shape our library is in
barrage of questions. / No error. /
(b)
(c) (d)
93. I saw him / coming out of the hotel / on 10 o’clock. / No error. I would have done something, to arrest the deterioration.
(a) (b) (c) (d) /
(c)
94. One of my friend / is returning / to India from the U.S.A. /
(a) (b) (c) No error
No error. (d)
(d)
95. He knows / that your muscles / are not same as his. / He has been enhanced in position
(a) (b) (c) 108. / /
(a) (b)
No error.
(d) as a result of his diligence and integrity. / No error
96. We shall wait / till you / will finish your lunch. / No error. (c) (d)
(a) (b) (c) (d)
It is I who is responsible for the delay. No error
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 97-106) : In the following questions, some 109. / / / (d)
parts of the sentences have errors and none. Find out which part (a) (b) (c)
of a sentences has an error. If there is no error mark (d) . There is only one cure to the evils which newly
(SSC Stenographer 2013) 110. (a)
/ (b)
/
97. I met/him/few weeks before./No error.
(a) (b) (c) (d) acquired freedom produces
98. I shall wait for you/till you will/finish your lunch./No error. No error
and that cure is freedom. /
(a) (b) (c) (d) (d)
(c)
99. The price of car/have been reduced/recently./No error.
(a) (b) (c) (d) He flew over extensively the Pacific last winter.
100. The teacher has / not yet entered / into the classroom./ 111. / / /
(a) (b) (c)
(a) (b) (c)
No error. No error
(d) (d)
62 Spotting Errors

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 112-116) : In the following questions below, Shakespeare has written many plays
some parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. 118. /
(a) (b)
Find out which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is
free from error, blacken the oval corresponding to (d) as your as well as some poetries No error
answer. /
(c) (d)
(SSC SI 2014)
In 1906, a earthquake destroyed much Neither of the girls were willing to
112. 119. /
(a) (b) (a) (b)

of San Francisco. No error. accept the proposal. No error

(c) /
(c) (d) (d)

His parents does not approve of A interesting book 'A Tale of two
113. 120. /
(a) (b) (a) (b)

his business No error.

cities' was written by Alexander Dumas No error
(c) (d) / /
(c) (d)
The college library is
114. In India there are many poors No error
(a) 121. , / /
(a) (b) (c) (d)
not only equipped with
(b) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 122-131) : In the following questions, some
parts of the sentence have errors and some are correct. Find out
very good books but also with the latest journals. which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is free from
(c) error, mark (d) as your answer.
(SSC Multitasking 2014)
No error.
When the weather is pleasant it is nice
(d) 122. ,/ /
(a) (b)
The lovers walked besides each other
115. to go for a picnic. No error.
(a) (b) /
(c) (d)
in silence. No error.
Many passer-bys stopped at the place of accident.
(c) (d) 123. / / /
(a) (b) (c)
Men are wanted for the army, No error.
116.
(a) (b) (d)
and the navy, and the air force No error. The batsman completed his century
(c) (d) 124. (a)
/ (b)
/

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 117-121) : In the following questions, some on minimum number of balls. No error.
parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out (c)
/ (d)
which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is free from
errors, mark (d). The accident was fatal
125. (a)
/
(SSC CHSL 2014)
I worked as medical representative for eight months as the truck had a head-on collision against a van
117. / / / /
(a) (b) (c) (b) (c)

No error No error.
(d) (d)
Spotting Errors 63

135. By May next year, I have been working in this college for
A real brave person is not he who does not feel afraid
126. / / twenty years.
(a) (b) (a) By May next year
(b) I have been working in this college
and one who conquers that fear. No error.
/ (d) (c) for twenty years.
(c) (d) No error
136. Everyone of us should realize that any act of negligence will
It's not proper to talk loudly over the telephone
127. / / / cause a great harm to our country's security.
(a) (b) (c) (a) Everyone of us should realize that
(b) any act of negligence will cause
No error.
(c) a great harm to our country's security
(d) (d) No error
I have known her since three years now. No error. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 137-141) : In the following questions, some
128. / / (c) / (d) parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out
(a) (b)
which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is free from error,
I am happy because I had paid off my bank loan. mark "No error" as your answer.
129. (a)
/ (b)
/ (c)
/
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015)
137. A bird in the tree is worth two in the bush.
No error.
(a) No error (b) two in the bush
(d) (c) is worth (d) A bird in the tree
138. It is not advisable to take heavy luggages while on a journey.
They blamed their teachers of their poor performance
130. / / (a) while on a journey (b) to take heavy luggages
(a) (b) (c) It is not advisable (d) No error
139. Just outside my house are a playground for school boys
in the Board examination. No error. and girls
/ (d)
(c) (a) for school boys and girls
(b) are a playground
Read the instructions with care lest you may (c) No error
131. (a)
/
(b)
/
(d) Just outside my house
140. He can be a basketball player since he is tall like a mule.
misunderstand the questions. No error. (a) No error
/ (d)
(c) (b) He can be
(c) He is tall like a mule
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 132-136) : In the following Five Questions, (d) A basketball player since
some parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. 141. Who do you think I met?
Find out which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is (a) Who (b) I met ?
free from error, mark option (d) i.e. 'No error' as your answer. (c) No error (d) Do you think
(SSC CGL 2015) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 142-146) : In the following questions below,
132. I shall look forward to being with you sometime next month. some part of the sentences have errors and some are correct.
(a) I shall look forward Find out which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentance is
(b) to being with you free from error, mark (d).
(c) sometime next month
(d) No error (SSC Sub. Ins. 2015)
133. I really do regret not to learn to play the violin when I had so
many opportunities to learn the practice in school. 142. The team was / on the field and /
(a) I really do regret not to learn to play the violin. (a) (b)
(b) when I had so many opportunities about to take their place. / No error
(c) to learn and practice in school. (c) (d)
(d) No error
134. The government granted relief payments of `5,000 each to 143. Everyone were happy / to hear /
those who were injured in the fire accident. (a) (b)
(a) The government granted about his success. / No error
(b) relief payments of `5,000 each (c) (d)
(c) to those who were injured in the fire accident.
(d) No error The lions / kill the animals / and eat his meat. / No error
144.
(a) (b) (c) (d)
64 Spotting Errors

Hearing these strange noises above, / 153. What delicious flavour these mangoes have!
145. (a) have! (b) What delicious
(a)
(c) flavour these mangoes (d) No Error
the thought at once occured to me / 154. They had to put of the garden party because of the heavy
(b) rain.
(a) because of the heavy rain
that thieves had entered the house. / No error (b) No Error
(c) (d) (c) They had to
(d) put of the garden party
Our beloved Prime-Minister / is known to /
146. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 155-157): In the following questions, one
(a) (b)
part of the sentence may have an error. Find out which part of
the prominent figures all over the world. / No error the sentence has an error. If the sentence is free from error,
(c) (d) mark(d) i.e. “No error” as option.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 147-150) : In the following questions, some (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out 155. The job for drawing water (a)/ from the village well is usually
which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is free from (b) / carried out by the women and young girls. (c) / No Error
error, blacken the circle corresponding to (d). (D).
(a) a (b) b
(SSC CHSL 2015) (c) c (d) d
They came here in the evening and begin making/ 156. I remember him as (a) / someone who was a lot nicer (b) /
147. /
(a) (b) than circumstances warranted. (c) / No Error (d)
(a) a (b) b
further arrangements No error
/ (c) c (d) d
(c) (d) 157. Several days passed before (a) / Jeff worked over enough
148. One must / obey one's / teachers / No error (b) / courage to return to the house. (c) / No Error (d)
(a) (b) (c) (d) (a) a (b) b
(c) c (d) d
149. She always fed / her childrens /
(a) (b) DIRECTONS (Qs. 158-160) : In the following questions, one
part of the sentence may have a n error. Find out which part of
before she fed her dog No error the sentence has an error. If the sentence is free from error, mark
/
(c) (d) (d) “No error as” option.

150. Make what you write / and say more / (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
(a) (b) 158. One (a) / should keep (b) / his word. (c) / No Error (d)
(a) a (b) b (c) c (d) d
absorbed and engrossing No error 159. If you turn the corner, (a) / you will found a house (b) / built
/
(c) (d) of stone. (c) / No Error (d)
(a) a (b) b (c) c (d) d
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 151-154): In the following questions, some 160. His appearance bears (a) / a striking resemblance (b) / to
parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out your cousin. (c) / No Error (d)
which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is free from (a) a (b) b (c) c (d) d
error, mark "No error" as your option.
DIRECTION (Qs. 161-163) : In the following questions, one
(SSC CHSL 2015) part of the sentence may have an error. Find out which part of
151. Scientist now hope that cloning can successfully be the sentence has an error. If the sentence is free from error, mark
conducted in human beings in the near future. (d) "No error" as option.
(a) human beings in the near future.
(b) can successfully be conducted in (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
(c) Scientists now hope that cloning 161. The doctor says that (a)/the patient will recover (b)/in few
(d) No Error days (c)/No Error (d)
152. When one takes great risks they must be prepared for great (a) a (b) b (c) c (d) d
losses. 162. I do not think that (a)/I can cope up (b)/with this problem (c)/
(a) When one takes great risks No Error (d)
(b) No Error (a) a (b) b (c) c (d) d
(c) they must be prepared 163. The mother (a)/yearns for (b)/her only child (c)/No Error (d)
(d) for great losses. (a) a (b) b (c) c (d) d
Spotting Errors 65

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 164-166) : In the following questions, one (c) You will not
part of the sentence may have an error. Find out which part of (d) succeed unless you
the sentence has an error. If the sentence is free from error, mark 176. He stated that he prefers tea than coffee.
(d) i.e. "No error" as option. (a) tea than coffee (b) No error
(c) He stated that (d) he prefers
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
164. Too great a (a)/ variety of studies (b)/ distract the mind (c)/ DIRECTIONS (Qs. 177-181) : In the following Five Questions,
No Error (d) some parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct.
(a) a (b) b (c) c (d) d Find out which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is
165. The severe cyclonic storm (a)/ has left behind (b)/ a trial free from error, mark. 'No Error' as your answer.
of misery (c)/ No Error (d) (SSC Sub. Ins. 2016)
(a) a (b) b (c) c (d) d 177. Three years have elapsed since I had gone to visit my aunt
166. My sister has been (a)/ interested in medicine (b)/ ever in the city.
since she was a child (c)/ No Error (d) (a) Visit my aunt in the city
(a) a (b) b (c) c (d) d
(b) No error
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 167-176) : In the following Ten Questions, (c) since I had gone to
some parts of the sentence shave errors and some are correct. (d) Three years have elapsed
Find out which part of a sentence has an error. If a sentence is 178. He needs not have shouted at me that way.
free from error, "No error" as your answer. (a) No error (b) at me that way
(SSC Stenographer 2016) (c) not have shouted (d) He needs
167. She has been complaining about headache from morning. 179. I reached two hours before he had came.
(a) from morning (b) No error (a) No error (b) he had came
(c) She has been (d) complaining about headache (c) I reached (d) two hours before
168. The children left the playground one after one. 180. The car that he is using these days is belonging to his
(a) one after one (b) No error employer.
(c) The children left (d) the playground (a) to his employer (b) these days is belonging
169. I knew the town well so I was able to advice him where to go. (c) The car that he is using (d) No error
(a) to advice him where to go. 181. He assured me that he will return in an hour.
(b) No error (a) He assured me (b) No error
(c) I knew the town well (c) in an hour (d) that he will return
(d) sol was able
170. He runs more faster than I. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 182 – 183) : In the following questions,
(a) than I (b) No error some part of the sentence may have errors. Find out which part
(c) He runs (d) more faster of the sentence has an error and select the appropriate option.
171. The fight for liberation brings out the best and a noblest If a sentence is free from error, select 'No Error'.
quality in mankind. (SSC CGL 2017, Set-1)
(a) a noblest quality in mankind 182. The two men were (1) / quarrelling with one another (2)/
(b) No error claiming the same watch as their own. (3)/ No Error (4).
(c) The fight for liberation (a) 1 (b) 2
(d) brings out the best and (c) 3 (d) 4
172. The baby was clinging with her mother in fear. 183. Everybody knows (1)/ that Bhutan is the most peaceful (2)/
(a) mother in fear (b) No error of all other countries of the world. (3) / No Error (4).
(c) The baby was (d) clinging with her (a) 1 (b) 2
173. Not much people realize his sincerity. (c) 3 (d) 4
(a) his sincerity (b) No error DIRECTIONS (Qs. 184 – 185) : In the following questions,
(c) Not much (d) people realize some part of the sentence may have errors. Find out which parts
174. The government must provide facilities for the upbringing of the sentence has an error and select the appropriate option.
of women. If a sentence is free from error, select 'No Error'.
(a) upbringing of women
(SSC CGL 2017, Set-2)
(b) No error
184. No sooner did I come out of my home to go to market (1)/
(c) The government
when it started raining heavily (2)/ which drenched me
(d) must provide facilities for the
completely. (3)/ No Error (4)
175. You will not succeed unless you don't work hard.
(a) 1 (b) 2
(a) don't work hard
(c) 3 (d) 4
(b) No error
66 Spotting Errors

185. Unless you don't obey (1)/ your elders you (2)/ will not (a) 1 (b) 2
suceed in your life. (3)/ No error (4). (c) 3 (d) 4
(a) 1 (b) 2 194. During India's struggle for (1)/ freedom many brilliant
(c) 3 (d) 4 students (2)/ gave up their studies by Bhagat singh's call.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 186 – 187) : In the following questions, (3)/ No Error (4)
some part of the sentence may have errors. Find out which part (a) 1 (b) 2
of the sentence has an error and select the appropriate option. (c) 3 (d) 4
If a sentence is free from error, select 'No error'.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 195 – 204) : In the following questions,
(SSC CGL 2017, Set-3) some part of the sentence may have errors. Find out which part
186. If you had (1)/ told me earlier (2)/ I will help you. (3) / No of the sentence has an error and select the appropriate option.
Error (4) If a sentence is free from error, select 'No Error'.
(a) 1 (b) 2 (SSC Stenographer 2017)
(c) 3 (d) 4 195. Hema doesn't has (1)/ to give (2)/ the dissertation to me (3)/
187. Her mother is (1)/ angry and (2) / indifferent to me. (3) / No No Error (4)
Error (d) (a) 1 (b) 2
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 4
(c) 3 (d) 4 196. My mother (1)/ is having (2)/ grey hairs (3)/ No Error (4)
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 188 – 189) : In the following questions, (a) 1 (b) 2
some part of the sentence may have errors. Find out which part (c) 3 (d) 4
of the sentence has an error and select the appropriate option. 197. Oh dear, (1)/ do have some relief (2)/ on my nerves (3)/ No
If a sentence is free from error, select 'No Error'. Errors (4)
(SSC CGL 2017, Set-4) (a) 1 (b) 2
188. Little knowledge of playing volleyball (1)/that she (c) 3 (d) 4
possessed proved to be (2) / helpful at the time of inaugural 198. Once you graduate (1)/ get a job (2)/ would be easier (3)/ No
match. (3)/ No Error (4) Errors (4)
(a) 1 (b) 2 (a) 1 (b) 2
(c) 3 (d) 4 (c) 3 (d) 4
189. I had not completed my English homework (1) / so I thought
199. He has been (1)/ working here (2)/ for quite some time (3)/
I was done with when the (2) / teacher asked me to hand it
No Error (4)
in. (3) / No Error (4)
(a) 1 (b) 2
(a) 1 (b) 2
(c) 3 (d) 4 (c) 3 (d) 4
200. I decided (1)/ to climbed to the (2)/ top of the hill (3)/ No
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 190–194) : In the following question, some
Error (4)
part of the sentence may have errors. Find out which part of the
sentence has an error and select the appropriate option. If a (a) 1 (b) 2
sentence is free from error, select 'No Error'. (c) 3 (d) 4
(SSC Sub. Insp. 2017) 201. Reading (1)/ provides nutrition (2)/ with the mind (3)/ No
190. Several visitors are (1)/ expected to visit the (2)/ trade fair Error (4)
this weekend. (3)/ No Error (4) (a) 1 (b) 2
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 4
(c) 3 (d) 4 202. Despite of minimal use of technology (1)/ they are able to
191. Our professor taught us that (1)/ one should respect the (2)/ manage (2)/ everything in a simple manner (3)/ No error (4)
religions of others as much as his own. (3)/ No Error (4) (a) 1 (b) 2
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 4
(c) 3 (d) 4 203. Sri Lanka is an island country (1)/ into the Indian Ocean (2)/
192. No sooner had she arrive that her (1)/ friends arranged a , south of India. (3)/ No error (4)
reception in her (2)/ honour in the best resort in the town. (a) 1 (b) 2
(3)/ No Error (4) (c) 3 (d) 4
204. I'm content with what I make (1)/ and I am found simple joys
(a) 1 (b) 2
in seeing a smile on customer's face (2)/ when they smell the
(c) 3 (d) 4 jasmine flowers. (3)/ No error (4)
193. Tell me (1)/ what all you know about it (2)/ before I take a (a) 1 (b) 2
decision in the matter. (3)/ No Error (4) (c) 3 (d) 4
Spotting Errors 67

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 205 – 214) : Some part of the sentences have (a) A (b) B
errors and some are correct. Find out which part of a sentence (c) C (d) D
has an error and blacken the circle corresponding to the 216. You must not (A)/look down into (B)/ parents' advice. (C)/
appropriate correct option. If a sentence is free from error, No error(D) (SSC CHSL 2017)
blacken the circle corresponding to "No Error". (a) A (b) B
(SSC MTS 2017) (c) C (d) D
205. Could you please maintain silence for a while? 217. Identify the segment in the sentence, which contains the
(a) please maintain silence (b) for a while? grammatical error.
(c) Could you (d) No error My grandmother has been lives in Shimla since her
childhood days. (SSC CHSL 2018)
206. She hopes to become an engineer after she will complete
(a) has been living (b) her childhood days
her education. (c) My grandmother (d) in Shimla since
(a) an engineer after she 218. Identify the segment in the sentence, which contains the
(b) will complete her education. grammatical error. Very little metals are as precious as gold.
(c) She hopes to become (SSC CHSL 2018)
(d) No error (a) as precious (b) metals are
207. Kindly please direct the tourists to the museum. (c) as gold (d) Very little
(a) Kindly please (b) direct the tourists 219. In the sentence identify the segment which contains the
(c) to the museum (d) No error grammatical error.
208. If you stand with me in hour of need, I will never forget you. Although there are more than a hundred known elements,
(a) No error (b) I will never forget you. they rarely occur at a pure state. (SSC CGL 2018)
(c) If you stand (d) with me in hour of need, (a) more than a hundred (b) Although there are
209. At last, he married with a poor girl. (c) at a pure state (d) they rarely occur
(a) At last (b) he married 220. In the sentence identify the segment which contains the
(c) No error (d) with a poor girl. grammatical error.
210. Our team played a football match. You may left the class when you have completed the test.
(a) played (b) Our team (SSC CGL 2018)
(c) a football match. (d) No error (a) the class (b) when you have
211. It is better to stay at home than go to market when it is (c) completed the test (d) You may left
raining. 221. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains the
(a) when it is raining grammatical error.
(b) No error Neither Nita nor her sisters has applied for this job
(c) It is better to stay at home (SSC Steno 2018)
(d) than go to market (a) nor her (b) has applied
212. All the girls students are advised to attend the meeting (c) Neither Nita (d) for this job
positively. 222. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains the
(a) attend the meeting positively grammatical error.
(b) No error Despite of working hard he failed the test.
(c) All the girls students (SSC Steno 2018)
(a) the test (b) he failed
(d) are advised to (c) Despite of (d) working hard
213. The thief had hardly put the cash in his pocket then the 223. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains the
owner woke up. grammatical error.
(a) No error The cheetah can run more faster than any other animal.
(b) The thief had hardly (SSC Steno 2018)
(c) then the owner woke up. (a) any other animal (b) more faster
(d) put the cash in his pocket (c) than (d) can run
214. Bengal tigers are now almost extincted. 224. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains the
grammatical error.
(a) Bengal tigers (b) Are now A Earth moves round the Sun. (SSC Steno 2018)
(c) Almost extincted (d) No error (a) moves (b) the Sun
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 215 – 216) : In the following question, (c) A Earth (d) round
225. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains the
some part of the sentence may have errors. Find out which part grammatical error.
of the sentence has an error and select the appropriate option. If Very few countries in the world is as big as India.
a sentence is free from error, select 'No Error'. (SSC Steno 2018)
(a) is (b) Very few countries
215. Soon as he (A)/saw the policeman, (B)/he ran away, (C)/No
(c) as big as (d) in the world
error (D). (SSC CHSL 2017)
68 Spotting Errors

226. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains the 236. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains the
grammatical error. (SSC Steno 2018) grammatical error from the given options.
This beautiful ring is made from gold. The city of Banaras is widely known from its ghats and
(a) from gold (b) This temples. (SSC MTS 2018)
(c) beautiful ring (d) is made (a) ghats and temples (b) the city of Banaras
227. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains the (c) from its (d) is widely known
grammatical error. 237. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains the
The furnitures in this shop is very costly. (SSC Steno 2018) grammatical error from the given options.
(a) in this shop (b) The furnitures (SSC MTS 2018)
(c) is (d) very costly He started life as a teacher before turn to journalism.
228. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains the (a) He started life (b) as a teacher
grammatical error. (c) to journalism (d) before turn
My sister and myself are pleased to accept your invitation 238. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains the
to dinner. (SSC Steno 2018) grammatical error from the given options.
(a) My sister and myself (b) are pleased Jaipur, which is renown for its architecture, was founded
(c) to accept (d) your invitation to dinner about 300 years ago. (SSC MTS 2018)
229. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains the (a) about 300 years ago
grammatical error. (SSC Steno 2018) (b) was founded
The children play on the park every evening. (c) for its architecture
(a) on the park (b) The children (d) Jaipur, which is renown
(c) every evening (d) play 239. Find the part of the given sentence that has an error in it. If
230. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains the there is no error, choose ‘No error’.
grammatical error. (SSC Steno 2018)
I told the tailor/to made a new/dress for me./No error.
I have been living in Delhi since many years.
(a) since (b) have been living (SSC MTS 2019-20)
(c) in Delhi (d) many years (a) dress for me (b) I told the tailor
231. Identify the segment in the sentence, which contains the (c) No errror (d) to made a new
grammatical error. (SSC Sub- Ins. 2018) 240. Find the part of the given sentence that has an error in it. If
He spends good deal of money on eating out. there is no error, choose ‘No error’.
(a) good deal (b) of money The lady / standing in the / corner is fat. / No error.
(c) He spends (d) on eating out. (SSC MTS 2019-20)
232. Identify the segment in the sentence, which contains the
(a) corner is fat (b) No error
grammatical error.
(c) standing in the (d) The lady
Neither Mohit nor Rohit were there at the shop when I went
there. (SSC Sub- Ins. 2018) 241. Find the part of the given sentence that has an error in it. If
(a) Neither Mohit nor Rohit there is no error, choose ‘No error’.
(b) at the shop It was not possible / for we / to understand her. / No error.
(c) when (SSC MTS2019-20)
(d) were there (a) for we (b) to understand her
233. Identify the segment in the sentence, which contains the (c) it was not possible (d) No error
grammatical error. (SSC Sub- Ins. 2018) 242. In the given sentence identify the segment which contains
The landlady made me changing the design of the kitchen the grammatical error.
three times.
Freedom of expression meaning the right to express one’s
(a) the design (b) changing
own convictions and beliefs. (SSC CHSL 2019-20)
(c) of the kitchen (d) made me
(a) Freedom of expression
234. Identify the segment in the sentence, which contains the
(b) meaning the right
grammatical error. (SSC Sub- Ins. 2018)
(c) to express one’s own
If the car hadn’t broken down we will be at the office now.
(d) convictions and beliefs
(a) hadn’t broken down (b) we will be
243. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
(c) If the car (d) at the office
235. Identify the segment in the sentence, which contains the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
grammatical error. (SSC Sub- Ins. 2018) need to substitute it, select ‘No improvement’.
He was surprised at me refusing his offer. The rising prices of essential food items have placed an
(a) He was (b) at me refusing WEIGHTY burden on the poor. (SSC CHSL 2019-20)
(c) surprised (d) his offer. (a) No improvement (b) trivial
(c) enormous (d) lightest
Spotting Errors 69

244. In the given sentence identify the segment which contains 250. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains a
the grammatical error. grammatical error. (SSC MTS 2020-21)
My hotel in Goa had a wonderful view of the sea in the Are these library books their?
window. (SSC CHSL 2019-20) (a) library (b) their
(a) had a wonderful view (c) Are these (d) books
(b) in the window 251. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains a
(c) My hotel in Goa grammatical error.
(d) of the sea This is one of the best books that has been published this
year. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
245. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of (a) one of the best books
them contains an error. Select the part that contains the (b) that has been published
error from the given options. (c) this year
Lack of required / vitamins and minerals / lead against /several (d) this is
complications / in the numan body? (SSC CGL-2020-21) 252. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
(a) lead against Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
After a long trek/through the forest, / we arrived to the
(b) lack of required camp / around 8 p.m. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(c) in the human body (a) After a long trek (b) around 8 p.m.
(d) several complicaitions (c) through the forest (d) we arrived to the camp
246. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of 253. In the given sentence, identify the segment which contains
them contains an error. a grammatical error. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
Select the part contains the error from the given options. I would like you do to listen careful to what I am saying.
(a) to what (b) would like
The Dussehra celebrations / in Mysore/ this
(c) am saying (d) to listen careful
year / are grandest than / in any other part / of the state. 254. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
(SSC CGL-2020-21) Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
(a) any other part (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(b) are grandest than I think your watch / goes ten minutes behind; / mine shows
(c) The Dussehra celebrations / the correct time.
(a) mine shows
(d) in Mysore
(b) I think your watch
247. The following sentence has been split into four segments. (c) goes ten minutes behind
Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error. (d) the correct time
It would be / more better if / she sang / with ain orchestra. 255. In the given sentence, identify the segment that contains a
(SSC CHSL 2020-21) grammatical error. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
Discuss how will your surroundings clear and hygenic.
(a) more better if (b) It would be
(a) will you keep
(c) with an orchestra (d) she sang (b) your surroundings
248. In the given sentence, identify the segment which contains (c) clean and hygienic
the grammatical error. (d) Discuss how
Cyclone Amphan roared into West Bengal on Wednesday 256. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains a
grammatical error. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
leave behind a trail of devastation across a large area of the Neither the reporters nor the editor were satisfied by the
State (SSC CHSL 2020-21) attitudes of the publishers of the newspaper.
(a) Across a large area (a) of the publishers
(b) leave behind (b) Neither the reporters
(c) by the attitudes
(c) a trail of devastation (d) were satisfied
(d) roared into West Bengal 257. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains a
249. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains a grammatical error. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
grammatical error. (SSC MTS 2020-21) The house when I was born is in ruine.
(a) when I (b) was born
Mohan was very hungry so he had missed breakfast that
(c) The house (d) is in ruins
morning. 258. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains a
(a) Mohan was grammatical error. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(b) breakfast that morning The officer made me to type the letter again.
(c) so he had missed (a) to type (b) made me
(d) a very hungry (c) The officer (d) the letter again
70 Spotting Errors

259. In the sentence identify the segment that contains a contains the error from the given options. If you don’t find
grammatical error. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) any error, mark ‘No error’ as your answer.
Have you decided which university you want to join after The telecom growth story is a important component of the
you finished school? broader story of India. (SSC MTS 2021-22)
(a) after you finished (b) Have you decided (a) No error
(c) which university (d) you want to join (b) The telecom growth story is
260. The following sentence has been split into four setments. (c) the broader story of India.
Identify the segment that contains a grammatical errro. (d) a important component of
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21) 267. Select the option that will improve the underlined part of
Many of my friends / spoke highly / of a film / which I have the given sentence. In case no improvement is needed,
seen it yesterday. select ‘No improvement required’. (SSC MTS 2021-22)
(a) which I have seen it yesterday His mouth left open as he realise the truth.
(b) spoke highly (a) fell open as he perceived
(c) Many of my friends (b) felt opened as he perceive
(d) of a film (c) was felt opened as he realise
261. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains a (d) No improvement required
grammatical error. If there is no error, then select the option 268. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One
‘No error’. of them may contain an error.
When he goes on a business trip, he is usually taking his wife. Select the part that contains the error from the given options.
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21) If you don’t find any error, mark ‘No error’ as your answer.
(a) No error Solar storms can / impact Earth-dwellers / in significantly
(b) he is usually taking his wife ways. (SSC MTS 2021-22)
(c) on a business trip (a) Solar storms can
(d) When he goes (b) impact Earth-dwellers
262. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains a (c) No error
grammatical error. If there is no error, then select the option (d) in significantly ways
‘No error’. 269. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
The sun rises at 6.35 yesterday morning. Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21) Most of the / freshwater lake in India / are in the / Himalayan
(a) The sun (b) rises at 6.35 region. (SSC MTS 2021-22)
(c) No error (d) yesterday morning (a) Himalayan region (b) Most of the
263. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains a (c) are in the (d) fresh water lake in India
grammatical error. If there is no error, then select the option 270. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
‘No error’. Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
I am hearing a strange noise now. (SSC CGL 2021-22)
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21) Every / curious child / want to / rip open a toy.
(a) a strange (b) No error (a) curious child (b) rip open a toy
(c) I am hearing (d) noise now (c) Every (d) want to
264. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains a 271. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of
grammatical error. If there is no error, then select the option them may contain an error.
‘No error’. Select the part that contains the error from the given options.
All of us were a little nervous when we came into this room If you don’t find any error, mark ‘No error’ as your answer.
today. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21) It was / the very well-directed film / and we enjoyed it.
(a) when we came into this room today (SSC CGL 2021-22)
(b) a little nervous when (a) the very well-directed film
(c) All of us were (b) No error
(d) No error (c) and we enjoyed it
265. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains a (d) It was
grammatical error. If there is no error, then select the option 272. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of
‘No error’. them may contain a grammatical error. Select the part that
Sh! Someone listens to our conversation. contains the error from the given options. If you don’t find
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21) any error, mark ‘No error’ as your answer.
(a) listens to (b) No error If the economy fails / this year it reflect badly / on the
(c) Sh! Someone (d) our conversation government. (SSC CGL 2021-22)
266. Parts of the following sentence have been given as options. (a) this year it reflect badly
One of them may contain an error. Select the part that (b) No error
Spotting Errors 71

(c) on the government (a) I could hardly find something

(d) If the economy fails (b) worthy of admiration
273. The following sentence has been split into segments. One (c) No error
of them may contain an error. Identify the segment that (d) In his character
contains a grammatical error. If you don’t find any error, 280. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in fu-
mark ‘No error’ as your answer. (SSC CGL 2021-22) ture tense form. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
No one were / present when I / entered the hall. The mass protests, sometimes, change the decisions of (En-
(a) No one were (b) present when I glish Supplement) or the rulers in democratic countries.
(c) No error (d) entered the hall (a) The mass protests, sometimes, had been changed the
274. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the decisions of the rulers in democratic countries.
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no (b) The mass protests, sometimes, could change the deci-
need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution’. sions of the rulers in democratic countries.
After finishing high school, I plan to pursuing law. (c) The mass protests, sometimes, are changing the deci-
(SSC CGL 2022) sions of the rulers in democratic countries.
(a) No substitution (b) plan to pursue (d) The mass protests, sometimes, has changed the deci-
(c) plan in pursue (d) plan to pursuing sions of the rulers in democratic countries.
275. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the 281. The given sentence is divided into three segments. Select
underlined segment in the given sentence. the option that has the segment with a grammatical error. If
Our guests arrived; they are sitting in the garden. there is no error, select 'no error' as your answer.
(SSC CGL 2022) (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(a) shall arrive (b) have arrived By next year, / they will have / build their new tower.
(c) are arriving (d) might arrive (a) No error (b) build their new tower
276. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of (c) they will have (d) By next year
them may contain an error. (SSC Stenographer 2022) 282. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of
Select the part that contains the error from the given them may contain an error. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
options. If you don’t find any error, mark ‘No error’ as your Select the part that contains the error from the given
answer. options. If you don’t find any error, mark ‘No error’ as your
She will already return home / when her parents get back / answer.
from their offices. Neither of my sisters / are interested to come / on a vacation
(a) when her parents get back with me.
(b) No error (a) No error (b) on a vacation with me
(c) She will already return home (c) are interested to come (d) Neither of my sisters
(d) from their offices 283. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of
277. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the them may contain an error. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no Select the part that contains the error from the given
need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution’. options. If you don’t find any error, mark ‘No error’ as your
One must brush up on entire course before the day of exam- answer.
ination. (SSC Stenographer 2022) Can you not / knock so louder / in the morning?
(a) brush about (b) brushing on (a) No error (b) knock so louder
(c) No substitution (d) brushing off (c) in the morning (d) Can you not
278. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of 284. The given sentence is divided into three segments. Select
them may contain an error. (SSC Stenographer 2022) the option that has the segment with a grammatical error. If
Select the part that contains the error from the given op- there is no error, select 'no error' as your answer.
tions. If you don’t find any error, mark ‘No error’ as your Ajay will have been / writing his homework all day / by the
answer. time his mom returns. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
Riya arrived at / the train station / lately. (a) writing his homework all day
(a) the train station (b) No error (b) Ajay will have been
(c) lately (d) Riya arrived at (c) No error
279. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of (d) by the time his mom returns
them may contain an error. (SSC Stenographer 2022) 285. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of
Select the part that contains the error from the given them may contain an error. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
options. If you don’t find any error, mark ‘No error’ as your Select the part that contains the error from the given
answer. (SSC Stenographer 2022) options. If you don’t find any error, mark ‘No error’ as your
In his character, / I could hardly find something / worthy of answer. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
admiration. If I was the President of India, / I would work / to ensure
communal harmony.
72 Spotting Errors

(a) No error (c) No error

(b) to ensure communal harmony (d) The investors were
(c) I would work 292. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of
(d) If I was the President of India them may contain an error. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
286. Identify the option that rectifies the error in the given sen- Select the part that contains the error from the given options.
tence. (SSC Stenographer 2022) If you don’t find any error, mark ‘No error’ as your answer.
In the future, people are not going to physical stores as Psychology has been / defined the scientific study of / human
much as they do now. psyche and behaviour.
(a) In the future, people were not going to physical stores (a) defined the scientific study of
as much as they do now. (b) Psychology has been
(b) In the future, people are not gone to physical stores as (c) human psyche and behaviour
much as they do now. (d) No error
(c) In the future, people should not go to physical stores 293. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
as much as they do now. Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
(d) In the future, people will not go to physical stores as It is nothing else than / sheer foolishness that / you have
much as they do now. decided / to resign. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
287. The following sentence has been divided into four seg- (a) It is nothing else than
ments. Identify the segment that contains a grammatical (b) sheer foolishness that
error. (SSC Stenographer 2022) (c) to resign
Radha told her friends that / she will discuss the project / (d) you have decided
with her mentor when / she would meet him tomorrow. 294. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
(a) she would meet him tomorrow. Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
(b) Radha told her friends that Rahul sings / very sweet / when he is / in a good mood.
(c) with her mentor when (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
(d) she will discuss the project (a) very sweet (b) when he is
288. Identify the sentence that correctly uses the indefinite arti- (c) in a good mood (d) Rahul sings
cle. (SSC Stenographer 2022) 295. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
(a) He has a keen eye for business and every year his firm Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
makes a great profit. She had resign / from the / post before / he apologised.
(b) He has a keen eye for business and every year his firm (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
makes great a profit. (a) She had resign (b) he apologised
(c) He has keen eye for business and every year his firm (c) post before (d) from the
makes great profit. 296. The following sentence has been split into four segments.
(d) He has a keen eye for business and every year his firm Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error.
makes great profit. After / a long and fun-filled day, / the children / slept
289. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of themselves peacefully. (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
them may contain an error. (SSC Stenographer 2022) (a) a long and fun-filled day
Select the part that contains the error from the given (b) slept themselves peacefully
options. If you don’t find any error, mark ‘No error’ as your (c) the children
answer. (d) After
I is angry with myself / for making / so many mistakes. 297. From among the words given in bold, select the
(a) No error (b) I is angry with myself INCORRECTLY spelt word in the following sentence.
(c) for making (d) so many mistakes Small drops trickled down the red and yellow tassels of
290. The following sentence has been split into four segments. cannopies and dampened the heads of little boys.
Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error. (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
The / God / is / omniscient. (SSC Stenographer 2022) (a) cannopies (b) tassels
(a) is (b) The (c) dampened (d) trickled
(c) God (d) omniscient 298. Find the part of the given sentence that has an error in it. If
291. The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of there is no error, choose 'No error'. (SSC CHSL 2023)
them may contain an error. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022) A key institution is the judiciary,/especially the Supreme
Select the part that contains the error from the given options. Court, with/a widely remit and a wise legacy.
If you don ft find any error, mark ‘No error’ as your answer. (a) a widely remit and a wise legacy.
The investors were / put off by the dirty / visage of the (b) especially the Supreme Court, with
workshop. (c) A key institution is the judiciary,
(a) visage of the workshop (d) No error
(b) put off by the dirty
Spotting Errors 73

HINTS & EXPLANATIONS

1. (c) ‘Neither’ is used for two things. For more than two 28. (b) Here, in getting (gerund) the job should be used.
things, ‘none’ should be used. 29. (c) Here, are located at the Madison Avenue should be
2. (a) After knowing the truth will be the correct usage. used.
3. (b) It is time/It is high time is followed by the clause in 30. (c) Here, which she has given in respect of our eyes should
simple past that shows present time. Hence, to decide be used.
on your next should be used. 31. (c) Here, ‘a hindrance ……………’ should be used.
4. (c) Replace let him speak by should be allowed to speak. 32. (b) Here, ‘I have ………’ should be used.
5. (d) No error 33. (a) Here, ‘By the time she finished her work (Simple Past)’
6. (a) Sometimes, ‘Common Nouns’ are used as ‘Abstract should be used.
Nouns’ as they express qualities. In this situation, we 34. (a) Here, ‘Some were surprised/ Some categorically
will use ‘the’ before them. Hence. The Judge in him denied’ should be used.
should be used. 35. (c) Here, ‘the speed the ship sailed/travelled at’ should
7. (c) Since the subject is singular, has rotted away should be used. be used.
8. (c) Here, replace most people by most of the people. 36. (b) ‘are’ should be replaced with ‘is’
9. (b) The word ‘aim’ takes preposition ‘at’. Hence, at 37. (b) Remove ‘to’ before ‘the policeman’
bringing about should be used. 38. (b) ‘me’ should be replaced by ‘myself’
10. (c) ‘Chemical balance and amount of moisture should be
39. (c) ‘in’ should be replaced with ‘at’
used.
40. (d) No error
11. (c) Owing to (preposition) means : because of.
41. (c) Speak in Malayalam.
Hence, ‘owing to ever-growing demand’... should be
42. (b) ‘flowed’ should be used instead of ‘has flown’
used here.
43. (d)
12. (c) Here simple past (Passive) i.e. was dogged by
44. (d) No error
controversy should be used.
45. (c) ‘beside’ should be used instead of ‘besides’ because
13. (c) Here, ‘very hard’ should be used. The word hardly
‘besides’ means in addition to and ‘beside’ means next
(Adverb) means : almost not; almost none.
to or at the side of.
The word hard means : putting a lot of effort or energy
46. (b) Running ‘towards’ should be used instead of ‘in’
into an activity.
because the preposition ‘in’ is wrong in the context of
14. (b) Here, the antecedent of Relative Pronoun ‘who’ is ‘I’
the sentence.
and hence, ‘who have done' should be used as 'I' agrees
47. (b) ‘Going to the party’, not ‘to go to the party’.
with ‘have’.
48. (d) No error
15. (c) The word equipment (Uncountable Noun) means : the
49. (b) ‘the’ should be added before ‘first’ because the sentence
things that are needed for a particular purpose or
is expressing a quality and some times, common nouns
activity. Its plural is not equipments. Hence, new
are used as abstract nouns to express qualities.
‘equipment' should be used here.
50. (a) ‘Padmini had rarely missed’ makes the correct sense of
16. (a) Here, A great many students should be used.
the sentence.
17. (b) In hyphenated terms, singular noun i.e., this three-
51. (c) ‘so did kamya’ should be used.
crore project should be used.
52. (c) Here, ‘newly launched’ should be used.
18. (a) Here, I hope to go shopping should be used.
53. (b) When we use ‘as well as’, along with ‘and with’ etc.,
19. (b) Here, Gerund i.e. If it was worth taking should be used.
the verb agrees according to the first subject. Hence,
20. (a) Here, Adjective i.e. After a careful investigation should
‘has gone’ should be used.
be used.
54. (b) ‘doesn’t’ should be used because ‘doesn’t’ is used
21. (b) Here, look like should be used. 'Like' is an Adjective
with Singular Noun and US which is a country is a
which is used as Preposition.
Singular Noun. ‘Don’t’ is used with plural noun as
22. (c) Here foot tall should be used.
second person.
23. (a) Here, ‘with no proof of your guilt/ without any proof of
55. (b) Remove ‘to’ before ‘do’.
your guilt’ should be used.
56. (c) ‘would I stay there’ should be used.
24. (b) Here, ‘she appears to be unreasonably’ should be used.
57. (b) The sentence is in simple past. Hence, ‘with full might
25. (a) Here, ‘The scissors are’ should be used.
and raised my arms’ should be used.
26. (a) ‘The’ will be used before ‘word’ because it is a proper
58. (b) ‘Use both are’
noun.
59. (c) Here, subject (some areas) is in plural number. Hence,
27. (b) When we use along with, together and with, the verb plural verb i.e. ‘are subject to strong winds’ should be
agrees according to first subject. Hence, is going to used.
Delhi should be used.
74 Spotting Errors

60. (b) Here, ‘Raju is (so/very) good’ should be used. ‘As’ is 88. (c) When a sentence starts with 'one' then in accordance
superfluous here. with the singularity of the subject, it should be one's
61. (b) ‘Hardly’ means almost no: almost not. Hence, ‘could parents.
hardly’ should be used. Hardly conveys negative sense. 89. (c) 'God' is a universal noun so, it should be preceded by
62. (a) The sentence shows subjunctive mood of verb 'the'.
(desire). Thus, even a singular subject agrees with a 90. (b) According to the rules of the 'articles', the word
plural verb. Hence, If I were he should be used. 'uniform' should be preceded by 'a' because here, the
63. (a) It is not proper to use ‘to’ after advise (Verb). vowel sound of 'u' is different.
64. (d) No error 91. (a) Here, the use of 'they' is not needed as 'the newspaper'
65. (b) Neither of/Either of agrees with a singular verb. Hence, itself is the subject.
is sensible enough should be used. 92. (a) According to the rules of conjunctions, the word 'no
66. (a) ‘Know’ is generally not used in progressive Tenses. sooner...' should be followed by 'than...'
Hence, we know/we have known should be used here. 93. (c) The preposition 'on ' is used to indicate a date or place
67. (b) Here, Mohan's eyes reflect’means it is Mohan’s habit hence, ‘on’ should be replaced with ‘at’.
which is not the case. Hence, it should be as ‘Mohan’s 94. (a) Here, it means one among many so, it should be 'one of
eyes reflected... my friends...'
68. (c) With a view to (doing) something because you are planning 95. (c) Here, due to the sense of comparison it should be 'the
to do something in the future. Ex: We bought the house same...'
with a view to retiring there. ‘To securing’ is correct. 96. (c) Here, the word 'will' is not needed because 'shall' is
69. (b) 'has come' is the correct option because the verb will already used in the initial part of the sentence that
agree with the first subject. itself signifies the tense of the sentence.
70. (b) ‘adjacent’ always takes the preposition 'to'. 97. (c) I met him two weeks ago.
71. (b) Grapes cannot be the subject of the sentence; hence it 98. (b) Here, ‘will’ is not needed because ‘till’ itself signifies
should be 'Grapes cannot be gathered......' the tense of the sentence.
72. (b) ‘responsibilities’ should be replaced by ‘responsibility 99. (b) Remove ‘been’.
because ‘dual’ itself is plural. Hence, ‘responsibilities’ 100. (c) Replace ‘Into’ with ‘in’.
would be superfluous. 101. (b) ‘very’ is not required as ‘than Ram’ signifies the
73. (c) Remove ‘was’. inferiority of Ram to Vijay. So, the sentence should be
74. (a) Remove ‘have’ before ‘played’ because the sentence – Vijay is cleverer than Ram.
is in simple past, and not in present perfect tence. 102. (a) According to the rule of conjunctions, the word ‘no
75. (b) Remove ‘to’. sooner’ should be followed by ‘than’.
76. (c) Great Britain doesn't use the definite article "the". 103. (b) ‘doctor’ should be replaced with ‘the doctor’ because,
77. (b) Here, indefinite article i.e. about ‘a’ plane crash should the conversation is about a specific doctor.
be used. No particular incident is evident here. 104. (b) ‘become’ should be replaced with ‘becomes’ because
78. (b) ‘With a View to’ should be followed by gerund i.e. the subject is ‘Smoke’ which is singular noun.
surveying. 105. (c) ‘Isn’t it?’ should be used as it is the correct question
79. (a) Here, time period is given. Hence, Past Perfect tag.
Continuous i.e. ‘It had been lying’ should be used. 106. (b) Remove ‘of’ before Mars.
80. (c) Here, ‘to provide evidence/ as a witness’ should be 107. (a) It will be as 'If I had realized'. The Past perfect tense
used. suits here and it denotes the sentence to be in Active
81. (b) Here, it is a preposition related error. Hence, ‘at her’ voice.
should be used here. 108. (b) The word 'enhanced' given here is wrong. The correct
82. (d) No error word that will suit the statement is 'elevated'. Correct
83. (b) Delete 'pair of' before binocular because the word application of word enriches the meaning of the sen-
'binocular' itself suggests a pair. tence.
84. (b) 'a' should be replaced with 'the'. Here, Kalidas is not 109. (b) The correct form of sentence is 'It is I who am
Shakespeare but he is compared with Shakespeare. responsible for the delay'.
85. (b) Delete 'all' before 'left'. Here, the usage of 'all' is 110. (b) The preposition ‘for’ is missing in that part. Remove
superfluous as 'the teacher as well as his students' ‘to’ and add ‘for’ before the word ‘the evils’.
itself signifies everyone. 111. (b) It should be ‘extensively over’.
86. (a) Add 'the' before 'more'. Here, the sentence consists of 112. (a) Instead of 'a' before earthquake, article 'an' should be
two clauses- Principal and Subordinate, where the used because it is followed by a vowel letter.
Principal clause should be given more stress by adding 113. (a) His parents don't approve of his business. In English,
'the' before 'more'. don't is used when speaking in the first and second
87. (a) If pronouns of different persons are to be used together person plural and singular and the third person plural
in a sentence to provide good and normal sense, then ("I," "you," "we," and "they"). Doesn't, on the other
the serial order should be second, third and first so, hand, is used when speaking in the third person singular
here, it should be "He and I are very good friends." only ("he," "she," and "it").
Spotting Errors 75

114. (d) No error. 140. (c) A mule is not the right animal to be considered tall. The
115. (b) The lovers walked beside each other in silence. (the correct simile is ‘as tall as a giraffe’ Thus, the sentence
preposition besides means in addition to, whereas should be rephrased using ‘since, he is as tall as a giraffe’.
beside means next to). 141. (a) ‘Who’ should be replaced with 'whom' as it signifies
116. (c) Men are wanted for the army, the navy and the air the objective case of 'who.'
force. 142. (c) Replace ‘their’ with ‘its’.
117. (b) I worked as a medical representative for eight months. 143. (a) ‘Everyone was’ should be used.
118. (c) Shakespeare has written many plays as well as few 144. (c) ‘his’ should be replaced with ‘their’.
poetry. [Poetry is an Uncountable Noun or Mass Noun; 145. (a) ‘the strange noise’ should be used.
which means a noun that cannot be used freely with 146. (d) No error
numbers or the indefinite article, and which therefore 147. (b) Replace ‘begin’ with began’
takes no plural form.] 148. (d) No error
119. (b) Neither of the girls is willing to accept the proposal. 149. (b) Replace ‘childrens’ with ‘children’.
120. (a) The correct sentence should be- 'An interesting book 150. (c) ‘absorbing and engrossing’ should be used.
' A tale of two cities' was written by Alexander Dumas. 151. (b) can be successfully conducted in should be the correct.
Article 'a' in the first part should be replaced by 'an' 152. (c) ‘one must be prepared’ should be used.
because it is followed by a vowel sound. 153. (d) No error
121. (c) In India, there are many poor. [Poors is no word. Poor 154. (d) ‘put off the garden party’ should be used because ‘put
refer to all the poor people.] off’ means to abandon or cancel which is correct in the
122. (c) When the weather is pleasant, it is nice to go on a picnic. context of the sentence.
123. (a) Many passersby stopped at the place of accident. 155. (a) ‘job of’ should be used.
'passer-bys' is an incorrect word. 156. (d) No error
124. (c) ‘The batsman completed his century in minimum 157. (b) ‘worked over’ should be replaced with ‘gathered’.
number of balls’, should be the correct sentence. 158. (c) ‘one's words. should be used.
125. (c) The accident was fatal as the truck had a head on 159. (b) ‘will find’ should be used instead of ‘will found’.
collision with a van. ‘With’ is used to indicate ‘being 160. (d) No error
together or being involved’. 161. (c) ‘in a few days’ should be used because ‘a few’ has positive
126. (a) A real brave person is not one who does not feel afraid connotation which is correct in the context of the sentence.
and one who conquers that fear. As a pronoun, ‘one’ 162. (b) ‘cope with’ should be used.
can also function in an impersonal, objective manner, 163. (d) No error
standing for the writer or for all people who are like the 164. (c) ‘distracts’ should be used as ‘variety’ is singular and
writer or for the average person or for all people who distracts corresponds to variety.
belong to a class. 165. (c) Replace ‘trial’ with ‘trail’.
127. (d) No error. 166. (d) No error
128. (b) I have known her for three years now. 167. (a) Replace ‘from’ with ‘since’ as since refers to point of time
129. (b) I am happy because I have paid off my bank loan. The which is specific in nature. Here, use of ‘from’ is wrong.
sentence is present participle and thus have should be 168. (a) ‘one after another’ should be used.
used instead of had because the action is completed 169. (a) Use ‘advise’ instead of ‘advice’. Advice is a verb and
before 'now' the present. advice is a noun.
130. (b) They blamed their teachers for their poor performance 170. (d) Remove ‘more’ before ‘faster’ as it is superfluous. Faster
in the Board examination. ‘For’ is used to mean itself means more fast.
‘because of’. 171. (a) Replace ‘a’ with ‘the’.
131. (d) No error 172. (d) ‘chinging to her mother’ should be used.
132. (b) This part of the sentence should be 'to be with you.' 173. (c) Replace ‘much’ with ‘many’ as ‘people’ is countable noun.
133. (a) ‘I really do regret not having learnt to play the violin’ 174. (a) ‘Upbringing’ should be replaced by ‘empowerment’
should be the correct structure. because ‘upbringing’ means the treatment and
134. (b) It should be - ‘relief of `5000 each’. instruction received by a child from his parent/ guardian
135. (b) 'I shall have been working in this college' is the right hence, it’s use with ‘women’ is incorrect.
construction. ‘Empowerment’ means the authority or power given to
136. (a) “Each one of us should realize that each one refers to someone for his/her betterment hence, this word is
each and every person specifically. appropriate in the context of the sentence.
137. (d) ‘A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush’ is the 175. (a) Remove ‘don’t’ as ‘unless’ itself has negative commotation.
correct phrase. 176. (a) ‘prefers tea to coffee’ is the correct structure.
138. (b) Luggage means suitcases, trunks, etc, containing 177. (c) Replace ‘since’ with ‘that’.
personal belongings for a journey; baggage. It is never 178. (d) Replace ‘needs’ with ‘need’.
used in plural form. 179. (b) Remove ‘had’ before ‘come’ as the sentence is in simple past.
180. (b) ‘is belonging’ should be replaced with ‘belongs’.
139. (b) Just outside my house is a playground for school boys
181. (b) No error.
and girls. Playground is singular, hence, ‘is’ should be used.
76 Spotting Errors

182. (b) ‘one another’ should be replaced with ‘each other’. 216. (b) The correct phrase should be ‘look down on’ which
183. (c) Any other / all other should not be used with the means to undervalue or disregard something.
superlative degree as they are the part of comparative 217. (a) The correct phrase will be ‘has been living’.
degree. 218. (d) Use of ‘Very little’ is inappropriate. It should be replaced
The correct uses should be ‘of all countries’. with ‘very few’ to make the sentence correct.
184. (b) If the second event occurs immediately after the first, 219. (c) The part of the sentence 'at a pure state' is awkward
we can express that using the structure no sooner ...... and could be modified as 'in their pure state'.
than/hardly or scarcely ........ when./ As soon as. Here, 220. (d) 'You may left' is the wrong part of the sentence. The
‘when’ should be replaced with ‘than’. correct construction should be 'you may leave'. 'May'
185. (a) The correct use should be ‘Unless you obey’. is a modal verb which is used to ask or give permission
186. (c) Replace “will help you” by “would have helped you”. and takes V1.
187. (b) Every verb used in a sentence should be followed by 221. (b) Replace 'has applied' with 'have applied'.
separate prepositions. Word ‘angry’ is followed by 222. (c) Remove 'of'.
preposition ‘with’. 223. (b) Remove 'more' as it is superfluous.
188. (a) Use definite article 'the' with ‘little’. 224. (c) Replace 'a' with 'the'.
189. (b) Add ‘it’ before ‘when’. 225. (a) Replace 'is' with 'are'.
190. (d) No error 226. (a) Replace 'from' with 'of'.
191. (c) Replace ‘religions’ with ‘religion’. 227. (b) Replace 'The furnitures' with 'The furniture'.
192. (a) Replace ‘arrive’ with ‘arrived’. Note: The plural form of furniture is furniture and not
193. (b) Remove ‘what’. furnitures.
194. (c) Replace ‘by’ with ‘on’. 228. (a) Replace 'myself' with 'I'.
195. (a) Replace 'doesn't has' with 'doesn't have'. 229. (a) Replace the preposition 'on' with 'in'.
196. (c) Replace ‘hairs’ with ‘hair’. [Hair, as a noun, is generally 230. (a) Replace 'since' with 'for'.
a non-countable noun, and therefore has no plural.] 231. (a) 'good deal' should be replaced with 'great deal'.
197. (b) Remove ‘do’. 232. (d) Replace 'were' with 'was'. 'Neither' always take the
198. (b) Replace ‘get’ with 'getting'. singular verb.
199. (d) No error. 233. (b) Replace 'changing' with 'change'.
200. (b) Replace 'climbed' with 'climb'. 234. (b) Replace 'we will be' with 'we would have been' to make
201. (c) Replace 'with' with 'to'. the sentence grammatically correct.
202. (a) Replace 'despite of' with 'despite'. 235. (b) Replace 'me' with 'my'.
203. (b) Replace ' into' with 'in'. 236. (c) 'from its' should be replaced with 'for'
204. (b) Replace ‘am’ with ‘have’. 237. (d) 'Before turn' should be replaced with 'before turning'
205. (b) ‘Could you please maintain silence for a while?’ is not 238. (a) Jaipur, which is renown should be replaced with 'Jaipur,
a question, to which an answer is expected. A request which is renowned'
disguised as a question does not require a question 239. (d) To made a new is incorrect grammatically. It should be
mark. Such formulations can usually be reduced to the 'to make a'. Usage of the verb 'made' is past tense form
imperative. Replace the question mark with full stop. while the sentence is in present form, thus the usage of
206. (b) Replace ‘she will complete’ with ‘she has completed’. 'make' which is also present tense.
207. (a) Both the adverbs are used in polite requests, and one 240. (b) No error. The lady standing in the corner is fat.
of the meanings of kindly is please. Although, it is 241. (a) 'For we' is incorrect it should be 'for us'. 'We' is a subject
technically possible, one or the other is redundant, pronoun, which means it is used as the subject of
and no, they should not be used in proximity to each sentences. 'Us' is an object pronoun; it is used as an
other. Remove either of the two from the sentence to object in sentences.
make it correct grammatically. 242. (b) It should be 'means' and not 'meaning'.
208. (d) Replace ‘ with me in hour of need’ with ‘by me in hour 243. (c) Enormous is the substitute for weighty as there is article
of need’. 'an' placed before weighty.
209. (d) The correct sentence should be- At last he married a 244. (b) In the window means inside the window which makes
poor girl. no sense. It should be 'through' the window.
210. (d) No error. 245. (a) Lack of required vitamins and minerals lead to several
211. (d) Replace ‘ than go to market’ with ‘ than going to mar- complications in the human body is the correct sentence.
ket’. Therefore, 'lead against' is the part with error in it.
212. (c) Use ‘girl students’ instead of ‘girls student’. 246. (b) 'Than' is used in comparison in conjunction. And if
213. (c) Replace ‘then’ with ‘when’. 'Than' was to be used then 'grander' should have been
214. (c) Replace ‘almost extincted’ with ‘almost extinct’. used with it. "T he Dussehra celebrations in Mysore
[Extincted is grammatically wrong word.] this year are grandest in any other part of t he state".
215. (a) There is incorrect use of idiom ‘as soon as’ in this part. This is the correct sentence.
The sentence should begin with “As soon as he ...”. 247. (a) ‘More better’ is incorrect, because better is a
comparative adjective and cannot be used with ‘more’
Spotting Errors 77

which also signifies a comparative degree. If you want Conveys that the conversation can either be listened
to say something is better than good, you say its to, has been listened to, is being listened to.
‘‘better’’ but if you say it is more than better, you say 266. (d) Here, we need an article before important. Correct
that it is ‘‘best’’. sentence: The telecom growth story is an important
248. (b) Option (b) is the correct response-‘leave behind’. It component of the broader story of India.
should be leaving behind. 267. (a) Someone's mouth fell open means: someone was very
249. (c) 'So he had' has an error as the sentence is in simple surprised. Hence, option (a) is correct. Correct sentence:
past tense form. Therefore, 'so he missed breakfast that His mouth fell open as he perceived the truth.
morning 'is the correct answer. 268. (d) Significant is an adjective whereas significantly is an
250. (b) 'Their'- is wrong. ‘Their’ is a possessive pronoun. It Adverb and we need Adjective here to make the sentence
indicates possession. Something belongs to them. correct. Correct sentence: Solar storms can impact earth
Whereas, there means the opposite of here; "at that dwellers in significant ways.
place". In the question posed, 'Are the library books 269. (d) We use 'most + of the + plural noun' to talk about the
their?' it should either be 'theirs' or "Are these their majority of the people or things in a group. Correct
library books" to rephrase it-indicating someone's statement: Most of the freshwater lakes in India are in the
possession. 'There can also be used indicating a place. Himalayan region.
251. (b) 'has been' means that something happened in the past 270. (d) “want to” should be replaced by “wants to” to make
and continues in the present time. The book has the sentence grammatically correct.
already been published and won't continue to be 271. (a) “the very well-directed film” contains an error; “the”
published in the present moment. Therefore, instead in the sentence should be replaced by “a” to make the
of 'has been' we use 'to be'. sentence grammatically correct.
252. (d) We use to when moving in a direction and 'at' when 272. (a) “this year it reflect badly” contains the error; “will”
talking about a fixed location. The sentence states that needs to be added after “it” to make the sentence
they had reached the camp, thus we use 'at'. grammatically correct and contextually meaningful.
253. (d) Instead of 'careful' it should be carefully. 'Careful' is an 273. (a) “no one were” contains the error, as “no one” is singular,
adjective which modifies a noun. 'Carefully' is an adverb hence “was” should replace “were” to make the
which modifies a verb. Here, 'listen' is a verb and to
sentence grammatically correct.
modify it, it should be carefully and not careful.
274. (b) The given sentence follows the rule of ‘to + v1’. The
254. (c) 'Goes' is wrong usage it should be 'is'.
255. (a) 'Will you keep' poses a question. With the usage of correct sentence will be – After finishing high school, I
the word 'discuss' it becomes a statement, thus it plan to pursue law.
should instead be 'how you will'. 275. (b) As the guests are sitting in the garden that means they
256. (c) Preposition 'with' should come in place of 'by'. The have already arrived. The sentence will be in present
key difference between 'with and 'by' is that 'with' is a perfect tense. The correct sentence will be – Our guests
preposition while by is used as a preposition, an have arrived ; they are sitting in the garden.
adverb, an adjective and even a noun. In active voice 276. (c) The correct form of the sentence will be ‘She will have
sentences, with often follows a noun in a sentence already returned home when her parents get back from
while by often follows a verb. With always means their offices.’ The simple future tense (will/shall +
'accompanied by' something or someone. infinitive or root form of the verb) changes to future
257. (a) It should instead be 'in which'. perfect tense (will/shall + past participle form of the
258. (a) 'To' is incorrect usage. It should just be 'made me type'. verb) to make the sentence grammatically correct.
259. (a) It should be in present form' finish' as the whole 277. (c) No substitution is required. ‘Brush up’ is a phrasal verb
sentence too is in present form. which means to improve one’s skills by repetition and
260. (a) It should instead be 'which I watched yesterday' as we revision. Thus, it is correctly used.
use the term watch and not see for audio-visual
278. (c) ‘Lately’ and ‘late’ are not the same words. Lately means
domains.
recently. It cannot replace ‘late’ to give the same meaning.
261. (b) 'He is usually taking his wife' is incorrect as the verb
'taking' is present continuous tense and we need a 279. (a) The correct sentence will be ‘In his character, I could
simple present tense. So it should be 'he usually takes hardly find anything worthy of admiration. With
his wife.' ‘hardly’, we use the word ‘anything’ and not
262. (b) The sentence mentions 'yesterday' implying past tense ‘something’. The term ‘hardly’ is used to imply that
form of the verb. Therefore, it should be 'the sun rose' something is present in insignificant quantity. E.g. -
and not simple present tense 'the sun rises'. There’s hardly anything left in the box.
263. (c) The sentence is in simple present tense and so we use 280. (b) Option (b) is correct because of the phrase ‘could
'I hear' instead of continuous tense like 'I am hearing'. change’ in it. It means something will happen in the
264. (d) The sentence is grammatically correct and has no error. future. Other sentences either use the verb incorrectly,
265. (a) 'Listens to' is wrong. It should either be listened to or
as in option (a) or use the incorrect tense, as in option
can listen to or is listening to. The exclamation Sh!
(c) and (d)
78 Spotting Errors

281. (b) By next year, they will have built their new tower. The cannot miss it. Secondly, ‘great profit’ will be preceded
tense to be used here is future perfect, indicating that by the article ‘a’ to suggest that the profit is huge but
the task will be done or completed in the future. The no definite number is known.
correct structure for future perfect is will have +past 289. (b) Following is the correction – ‘I am angry with myself
participle form of the verb. for making so many mistakes.’ The correct form of the
282. (c) The correct sentence will be ‘Neither of my sisters is verb ‘be’ with the subject pronoun ‘I’ is ‘am’ and not
interested to come on a vacation with me.” ‘Neither ‘is’.
of...’ is treated as a singular subject. Thus, it will take 290. (b) ‘God is omniscient.’ Since we are referring to God as a
the singular form of verb with it. specific entity here, we will not use any article before it.
283. (b) The correct way to frame the question is ‘Can you not 291 (c) There is no error in the sentence.
knock so loud in the morning? With the word ‘so’, avoid 292. (a) There is an error in the second part of the sentence
using the comparative degree of the adjective. Thus,
because the conjunction ‘as’ is missing from there.
option (b) is the correct answer.
284. (c) There is no error in the given sentence. The complete sentence will then be ‘Psychology has
285. (d) The correct sentence will be ‘If I were the President of been defined as the scientific study of human psyche
India, I would work to ensure communal harmony.’ and behaviour.’
When the subject of the verb refers to an imaginary or 293. (a) In the sentence, instead of ‘than’, ‘but’ should be used
a hypothetical situation, we use ‘I were’ instead of ‘I
to give the appropriate meaning. ‘Nothing but’ gives
was’. For more clarity on the topic, refer to the concept
of subjunctive mood. the same meaning as ‘only’. Thus, the correct structure
286. (d) The term ‘will go’ indicates future tense. The given of the sentence is ‘It is nothing else but sheer
sentence begins with ‘In the future’ suggesting that foolishness that you have decided to resign’.
we need to use the future tense. Thus, option (d) is the 294. (a) Sings is a verb and it needs adverb to be qualified.
right answer. Correct sentence: Rahul sings very sweetly when he
287. (a) The correct sentence will be ‘Radha told her friends is in a good mood.
that she will discuss the project with her mentor when 295. (a) Had takes verb 3rd form with it hence, correct
she meets him tomorrow.’ The second clause in the statement: She had resigned from the post before he
sentence will be written in simple present tense because apologised.
the word ‘would’ is usually used as the past tense of 296. (b) There is no need of using reflexive pronoun
the word ‘will’ though in some cases ‘would’ also ‘themselves’.
indicates present tense. Here however, the tenses in 297. (a) Correct spelling: Canopies
the two clauses do not go together. 298. (a) Instead of widely (adverb), we need wide (adjective)
288. (a) The articles ‘a’ and ‘an’ are indefinite articles. The idiom that will qualify the remit (noun).
‘a keen eye for something’ has the article ‘a’ in it. We
 Sentence
5
5
Chapter
Improvement
NOTE : In your exam, you will find some questions which will require you to improve the given sentence by choosing appropriate/
correct response. These questions are usually from the following topics:-
• Noun • Verb • Subject-verb concord • Tense • Preposition • Conjunction • Adjective and adverb
• Question-tags • Idioms/Phrases • Sentence structure
Explanation of all these topics can be found in the Chapter ‘Essential English grammar’ of this book.

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 1-5) : In the following questions, a part of the (a) out (b) off
sentence is bold. Below are given alternatives to the bold part at (c) away (d) No improvement
(a), (b) and (c) which may improve the sentence. Choose the 10. A callous system generates nothing but a misanthrope.
correct alternative. In case no improvement is needed, your (a) develops (b) induces
answer is (d). (c) produces (d) No improvement
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2010) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 11-15) : In the following questions, a
1. Obviously he isn't cut up to be a good teacher. sentence or Bold part thereof is given which may need
(a) cut out (b) cut in improvement. Alternatives are given at (a), (b) and (c) below,
(c) cut for (d) No improvement which may be a better option. In case no improvement is needed,
2. Power got with money is the most craved for today. your answer is (d).
(a) sought after (b) wished for
(c) welcomed for (d) No improvement (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2011)
3. The brown shirt wants washing. 11. He has for good left India.
(a) has to wash (a) He has left for good India.
(b) is in need of a wash (b) He has left India for good.
(c) requries a wash (c) Good he has left India.
(d) No improvement (d) No improvement
4. You are asked to copy this letter word by word. 12. We are credibly informed that the murderer has given
(a) word for word (b) word with word himself up.
(c) word to word (d) No improvement (a) We are informed that the murderer has credibly given
5. The weak man is a slave to his sensuous pleasures. himself up.
(a) sensory (b) sensual (b) We are informed that the murderer has given credibly
(c) secondary (d) No improvement himself up.
(c) We are informed that credibly the murderer has given
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 6-10) : In the following questions, a part of up himself,
the sentence is printed in bold. Below are given alternatives to (d) No improvement
the bold part at (a), (b) and (c) which may improve the sentence. 13. We generally select one of the most intelligent student of
Choose the correct alternative. In case no improvement is needed, the school for this award.
your answer is (d). (a) one of the most intelligent students of the school
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2010) (b) one of the intelligent most students of the school
6. To get into the building, I'll disguise as a reporter. (c) one of the intelligent most student of the school
(a) disguise to be (b) disguise as one (d) No improvement
(c) disguise myself (d) No improvement 14. My friend lives in a nearby street whose name I have
7. He denied that he had not forged my signature forgotten.
(a) would not forge (b) had forged (a) the name of which (b) which name
(c) did not forge (d) No improvement (c) of which name (d) No improvement
8. If I had played well, I would have won the match. 15. He both won a medal and a scholarship.
(a) I played well (b) I play well (a) He won a medal and a scholarship both.
(c) I am playing well (d) No improvement (b) Both he won a medal and a scholarship.
9. Since the records are missing, the possibility of paying more (c) He won both a medal and a scholarship.
than one compensation for the same piece of land cannot be (d) No improvement
ruled aside.
 80 Sentence Improvement

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 16-20) : In the following questions, a sentence (a) then she began to take
is given, a part of which may need improvement. Alternatives are (b) than she began taking
given at (a), (b) and (c) below which may be a better option. In (c) when she began to take
case no improvement is needed, your answer is (d). (d) No improvement
25. A good scholar must be precise and possess originality.
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2011) (a) must be precise and original
16. What do you for go to school?
(b) must be possess precision and original
(a) For what do you go to school?
(b) What do you go for to school? (c) must be precision and possess originality
(c) What do you go to school for? (d) No improvement
(d) No improvement DIRECTIONS (Qs. 26-30) : In the following questions, a part of
17. He pleased the directors and this completed his report in the sentence is bold. Below are given alternatives to the bold
good time. part at (a), (b), (c) which may improve the sentence. Choose the
(a) He pleased the directors in good time and this completed correct alternative. In case no improvement is needed, your answer
his report.
is (d).
(b) He completed his report in good time and this pleased
the directors. (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012)
(c) He pleased the directors and completed his report and 26. It took her a long time to get past her failure in the medical
this in good time. examination.
(d) No improvement (a) through (b) over
18. The courtiers used to tell the King how efficient an (c) by (d) No improvement
administrator he was all day long. 27. The boy wanted to ask his father for money, but waited for
(a) The courtiers all day long used to tell the King how a propitious occasion.
efficient an administrator he was. (a) protective (b) prophetic
(b) The courtiers used all day long to tell the King how (c) prospective (d) No improvement
efficient an administrator he was. 28. I did not agree with him, he appeared to be so bigoted for me
(c) The courtiers used to tell the King all day long how to concur.
efficient an administrator he was.
(a) much (b) very
(d) No improvement
19. Every Saturday I go out for shopping. (c) too (d) No improvement
(a) for shops (b) to shopping 29. As soon as she noticed the workmen, she asked them what
(c) for shop (d) No improvement they have been doing.
20. We had a grand party and we enjoyed very much. (a) have done (b) had been doing
(a) We had a grand party and enjoyed very much. (d) are doing (d) No improvement
(b) We had a grand party to enjoy very much. 30. He was asleep before the mother tucked him off.
(c) We had a grand party and we enjoyed ourselves very (a) through (b) away
much. (c) in (d) No improvement
(d) No improvement.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 31-35) : In the following questions, a part of
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 21-25) : In the following questions, a part of the sentence is printed in bold. Below are given alternatives to
the sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives to the the bold part at (a), (b), (c) which may improve the sentence.
underliend part at (a), (b) and (c) which may improve the Choose the correct alternative. In case no improvement is needed,
sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case no improvement your answer is (d).
is needed, your answer is (d).
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012)
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012) 31. His life is hanging with a thread.
21. Sordid and sensational books tend to vitiate the public taste. (a) from (b) by
(a) divide (b) distract (c) to (d) No improvement
(c) distort (d) No improvement
32. After twenty years of exile, the prisoner was in the end of
22. By studying AIDS has engaged many researchers in the last
his tether.
decade.
(a) Important study (b) Now that the study (a) on (b) though
(c) The study of (d) No improvement (c) at (d) No improvement
23. His Master's thesis was highly estimated and is now being 33. Grandfather is often so tired that he drops in to his armchair.
prepared for publication. (a) slides away (b) falls out
(a) was highly discussed (c) slips in (d) No improvement
(b) was highly commended 34. The court was forced to respect the profundity of the learned
(c) is highly appraised judge’s knowledge.
(d) No improvement (a) probity (b) proximity
24. No sooner had she realized her blunder than she began to (c) prodigality (d) No improvement
take corrective measures.
Sentence Improvement 81

35. He has lost his nearly all many pets. (c) why had he not eaten
(a) all his nearly many pets (d) No improvement
(b) his many pets nearly all of them 45. He who will bid the highest will get the product.
(c) nearly all his many pets (a) who bids the highest
(d) No improvement (b) who the highest bids
(c) who would bid the highest
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 36-40) : In the following questions, a part of (d) No improvement
the sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives to the 46. John had told me that he hasn't done it yet.
underlined part at (a), (b) and (c) which may improve the (a) told (b) tells
sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case, no improvement (c) was telling (d) No improvement
is needed, your answer is (d). 47. The clients are waiting outside since morning and will
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012) continue to wait until you meet them.
36. You shall have attended if the court had instructed you to (a) have waited (b) have been waiting
do so. (c) were waiting (d) No improvement
(a) would have had to attend 48. He may have grown taller when i last saw him
(b) would attend (a) from when I last saw him
(c) would have to (b) since I last saw him
(d) No improvement (c) before I last saw him
37. The relics of Greece over which such a great deal of evidence (d) No improvement
has been collected should be preserved. 49. While crossing the highway, a five year old child was
(a) from which (b) on which knocked out by a passing car.
(c) ascent which (d) No improvement (a) away (b) up
38. When the beverage was ready, they drank possibly as much (c) down (d) No improvement
as they could. 50. During his long discourse, he did not touch that point.
(a) as much as they possibly could (a) touch upon (b) touch in
(b) as much as possibly they could (c) touch of (d) No improvement
(c) as much as they could possibly
(d) No improvement DIRECTIONS (Qs. 51-60) : In the following questions, a sentence/
39. A citizen is expected to give allegiance to his country of part of the sentence is printed in bold. Below are given alternatives
origin. to the sentence/part of the sentence at (a), (b) and (c) which may
(a) homage (b) loyalty improve the sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case, no
(c) obedience (d) No improvement improvement is needed, your answer is (d).
40. We were with daggers drawn despite attempts to understand
each other. (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2013)
(a) in (b) on 51. The disparity of the GDP between the rich and the poor has
(c) at (d) No improvement broadened in the last some decades.
(a) have widened in the last some decades
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 41-50) : In the following questions, a sentence/ (b) have widened in the last few decades.
part of the sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives to (c) have broadened in the last few decades.
the underlined sentence/part of the sentence at (a), (b) and (c) (d) No improvement
which may improve the sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In 52. How, is beyond my understanding, the boy could fall into
case, no improvement is needed, your answer is (d). the ditch.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) (a) How the boy could fall into the ditch is beyond my
41. If he had time he will call you understanding
(a) would have (b) would have had (b) Beyond my understanding is how the boy could fall
(c) has (d) No improvement into the ditch
42. The workers are hell bent at getting what is due to them. (c) How could the boy fall into the ditch is beyond my
(a) hell bent on getting understanding.
(b) hell bent for getting (d) No improvement
(c) hell bent upon getting 53. The pioneer spacecraft went beyond Pluto.
(d) No improvement (a) made its way past. (b) went across
43. We are looking forward to see you tomorrow: (c) went after (d) No improvement
(a) looking forward towards seeing 54. The firm buys frozen seafood in bulk, packs it into smaller
(b) looking forward for seeing pouches and then they sell them to the local grocery stores.
(c) looking forward to seeing (a) it sells them
(d) No improvement (b) sell them
44. They could not tell me why did he not eat his lunch. (c) they sell the pouches
(a) why not had he eaten (d) No improvement
(b) why he did not eat
 82 Sentence Improvement

55. The learners are intended to read the sources at home. (c) If I have had the money I would have bought the house
(a) are meant (b) are suggested (d) No improvement
(c) are expected (d) No improvement 65. Don't sit in the grass. It's wet.
56. Fuji’s invention of supercomputer will be enable to make (a) by the side of (b) on
Japan supercede America in computer technology. (c) beside (d) No improvement
(a) will make Japan (b) will enable Japan 66. The game is more important than the winning of the prize.
(c) can make Japan (d) No improvement (a) The gaming is more important than the winning of the
57. I could never repay the debt I owe to my place of study.
prize
(a) Alma Master (b) Motherland
(b) The game is more important than winning of the prize
(c) Place of worship (d) No improvement
58. She cries all the time. (c) Gaming is more important than winning of the prize
(a) mostly everytime (b) Day in and day out (d) No imporovement
(c) pretty frequently (d) No improvement 67. The actor is out of jail, and not exactly a free man, since he
59. For a week last month, the team’s 20 players were stranded will be under house arrest for an additional 90 days.
because the Government-issued passport is not up to (a) but not exactly a free man
international standards. (b) though exactly a free man
(a) Government-issued passports were not up to (c) if not exactly a free man
international standards. (d) No improvement
(b) Government-issued passports are not up to 68. Some players on the team suffer from chronic knee problems
international standards and will not play in the next playoff.
(c) The passports issued by the government were not up (a) Some player on the team suffered
to international standards (b) Some player on the team suffer
(d) No improvement (c) Some players on the team suffers
60. Since July 2008, our customers will be able to use the ATM (d) No improvement
network of BBY Bank, the bank that was acquired by us 69. Sushma has wisdom, charm and she has a good sense of
during that year. humour.
(a) have been able to use (a) Sushma had a good sense of humour
(b) were using (b) a good sense of humour
(c) will have been able to use. (c) has a good sense of humour
(d) No improvement (d) No improvement
70. They knocked down ten houses when they built the new
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 61-70) : In these questions, a sentence/ part road.
of the sentence is bold. Below are given alternatives to the bold (a) ruptured (b) removed
sentence/ part of the sentence at (a), (b) and (c) which may (c) pulled down (d) No improvement
improve the sentence. Choose the correct alternatives. In case,
no improvement is needed, your answer is (d). DIRECTIONS (Qs. 71-80) : In the following questions, a
sentence/part of the sentence is underlined. Below are given
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
alternatives to the underlined sentence/part of the sentence at
61. I wish I knew what is wrong with my car.
(a), (b) and (c) which may improve the sentence. Choose the
(a) I wish I had known what is wrong with my car
correct alternative. In case no improvement is needed, your
(b) I wish I know what is wrong with my car answer is (d).
(c) I wish I knew what was wrong with my car
(d) No improvement (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
62. Just before he died, Amar, who is a poet, wrote this poem. 71. The climate of Karnataka is cooler than Tamil Nadu.
(a) is cooler to
(a) Just before he died, Amar, who was a poet, wrote this
(b) is cooler than of
poem
(c) is cooler than that of
(b) Amar, who is a poet, wrote this poem just before he
(d) No improvement
died 72. The Tsunami victims suffered of cholera.
(c) Amar wrote this poem, who is poet, just before he died (a) suffered from (b) suffered under
(d) No improvement (c) suffered in (d) No improvement
63. The flag will be risen on the 15th of August. 73. I gave to Sana the keys.
(a) The flag will be roused on the 15th of August (a) I gave (b) I gave to the
(b) The flag will be rising on the 15th August (c) I gave the (d) No improvement
(c) The flag will be raised on the 15th of August 74. If he smokes less he might get rid of his cough.
(d) No improvement (a) If he smoked less he would get rid of his cough.
64. If I had the money I would have bought the house. (b) If he had smoked less he might get rid of his cough.
(a) If I had had the money I would have bought the house (c) If he smokes less he might have got rid of his cough.
(b) If I have the money I would have bought the house (d) No improvement.
Sentence Improvement 83
75. He compensated the loss to me. 85. If you are living near a market place you should be ready to
(a) He compensated the loss for me. bear the disturbances caused by traffic.
(b) He compensated me to the loss (a) to bear upon (b) to bear with
(c) He compensated me for the loss. (c) to bear away (d) No improvement
(d) No improvement. 86. The more they earn, more they spend on luxury items.
76. As employees, we are accountable for our stakeholders. (a) more they should spend
(a) accountable with (b) the more they spend
(b) accountable to (c) the more they ought to spend
(c) accountable against (d) No improvement
(d) No improvement 87. You have come here with a view to insult me.
77. Recently he had insured for a mediclaim policy. (a) to insulting me (b) of insulting me
(a) He had recently insured for (c) for insulting me (d) No improvement
(b) Recently he insured for 88. A little rail-road engine was employed by a station yard for
(c) He insured recently for doing small pieces of work.
(d) No improvement (a) was made by a station yard
78. Everyday, we usually had lunch at 1.30 p.m. (b) was used at the station yard
(a) we have had usually (c) was employed at the station yard
(b) we have usually (d) No improvement
(c) we usually have 89. From an aesthetic point of view, the painting did not appeal
(d) No improvement to me.
79. All nations must first become agricultural strong. (a) From the viewpoint of aesthetics, the painting did not
(a) become agriculturally strong appeal to me
(b) become strong agriculture (b) The painting had no aesthetic appeal to me
(c) become agriculture strong (c) From an aesthetic point of view, the painting had a little
(d) No improvement appeal to me
80. An orangutan’s intelligence is as superior to that of man. (d) No improvement
(a) is more superior to 90. The child tossed in bed burning with fever.
(b) is superior to (a) The child in bed, burning with fever tossed
(c) is superior than that of (b) The child burning with fever, tossed in bed
(d) No improvement (c) The child burning in bed tossed with fever
(d) No improvement
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 81-90) : In the following questions, a
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 91-100) : In the following questions, a
sentence/ part of the sentence is underlined. Below are given
sentence/a part of the sentence is underlined. Below are given
alternatives to the underlined sentence/part of the sentence at
alternatives to the underlined part at (a), (b), (c) which may
(a), (b) and (c) which may improve the sentence. Choose the
improve the sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case no
correct alternative. In case no improvement is needed, your
improvement is needed, your answer is (d). Mark your answer in
answer is (d).
the Answer Sheet.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
(SSC CGL 2014)
81. It became clear that the strangers were heading into a serious
91. Why should you be despaired of your success of your
disaster.
undertaking?
(a) along (b) towards
(a) you despair of the success of your undertaking
(c) on (d) No improvement
(b) you despair of success of undertaking
82. Twenty kms are not a great distance in these days of fast
(c) you be despaired of the success of your undertaking
moving vehicles.
(d) No improvement.
(a) is not a great distance
92. As Rees was going to town in the High Street a savage dog
(b) are not too great a distance
attacked him and bit him.
(c) aren't proving a great distance
(a) going to town a savage dog attacked him and bit him
(d) No improvement
in the High Street
83. I adapted a new method to solve the problem.
(b) in the High Street a savage dog attacked him and bit
(a) I have been adopted (b) I adopted
him in the town
(c) I was adapted (d) No improvement
(c) going to town in the High Street a savage dog bit him
84. Hoping not to be disturbed, I sat down in my easy chair to
and attacked him
read the book, I won as a prize.
(d) No improvement
(a) I had won as a prize
93. Something is pretty here that Vineeta can wear to the party.
(b) I have won as prize
(a) Something here is pretty
(c) I had to win as a prize
(b) Something is here pretty
(d) No improvement
(c) Here is something pretty
(d) No improvement
 84 Sentence Improvement

94. I have dreamt all my life to own a beautiful maroon coloured (c) passage of contaminated
car. (d) No improvement
(a) of owning (b) to owning 107. He lives far from the station.
(c) at owning (d) No improvement (a) away from the station
95. Sitting on the hill top, the sun went down watching before (b) a long way from the station
him. (c) off the station
(a) he watched the sun go down. (d) No improvement
(b) the sun went down with him watching 108. Mumbai is famous because of its textiles.
(c) the sun went down when he watched (a) at (b) in
(d) No improvement (c) for (d) No improvement
96. The office is soon to be close. 109. They spoke about the weather.
(a) just to (b) about to (a) said (b) talked
(c) immediately to (d) No improvement (c) expressed (d) No improvement
97. He has achieved nothing out of his way worth mentioning. 110. Mr. Mukherjee knows ten languages, isn't it'?
(a) out of the way (b) by the way (a) doesn't Mr. Mukherjee
(c) in a big way (d) No improvement (b) hasn't he
98. I prevailed on him to vote for you. (c) doesn't he
(a) to (b) at (d) No improvement
(c) upon (d) No improvement
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 111-120): In the following questions, a
99. Eager to pass his final exams, studying was the students
sentence/ a part of the sentence is underlined. Below are given
top priority.
alternatives to the underlined part which may improve the
(a) the student's top priority was studying. sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case, no improvement
(b) the student made studying his top priority. is needed, choose "No Improvement".
(c) the top priority of studying was made by the student.
(d) No improvement. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015)
100. Mr. Dev will not go to the wedding reception without being 111. He does not laugh, nor he smiles.
called. (a) nor he does smile (b) No improvement
(a) if he is not invited (b) till he is invited (c) neither he does smile (d) nor does he smile
(c) unless he is invited (d) No improvement 112. If I will get an opportunity, I shall attend the seminar.
(a) get (b) No improvement
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 101-110): In the following Ten Questions, a (c) shall get (d) got
sentence/a part of the sentence is underlined. Below are given 113. The others shook their heads and made vague noises of
alternatives to the underlined part which may improve the sentence. approval.
Choose the correct alternative. In case no improvement is needed, (a) nodded (b) No improvement
mark your answer as "No improvement". (c) turned around (d) hung
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015 ) 114. The world is being faced with a crisis.
101. It's high time that you go home. (a) No improvement (b) facing
(a) are going (b) went (c) confronted (d) in front of
(c) gone (d) No improvement 115. She insisted on she was innocent.
102. Drinking tea is an English habit. (a) No improvement (b) insisted on that
(a) tradition (b) convention (c) insisted that (d) insisted with
(c) custom (d) No improvement 116. She could not help but laugh.
103. He is wanting in a little common sense. (a) but laughing (b) No improvement
(a) lacks (b) is lacking in (c) laughter (d) laughing
(c) needs some (d) No improvement 117. I took my mother some grapes when she was in hospital.
104. The second pigeon flew just as the first pigeon had flown. (a) I took some grapes for my mother
(a) one had done (b) one had flown away (b) No improvement
(c) had done (d) No improvement (c) I took for my mother some grapes
105. The old man has acquired experience through age. (d) I brought my mother some grapes
(a) developed experience 118. We met yesterday, haven't we ?
(b) experienced (a) isn't it ? (b) No improvement
(c) got experience (c) didn't we ? (d) hadn't we ?
(d) No improvement 119. Both the teams played the game fairly.
106. Water and soil pollutants find their entry into the body (a) played fairly the game (b) No improvement
through ingestion of contaminated water or food. (c) fairly played the game (d) played a fair game
(a) digestion of contaminated 120. You must endure what you cannot cure.
(b) injection of contaminated (a) suffer (b) No improvement
(c) prevail (d) accept
Sentence Improvement 85

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 121-125): In the following questions, a sentence/ DIRECTIONS (131-135) : In the following questions, a sentence/
a part of the sentence is given in bold. Four alternatives are given a part of the sentence is given in bold. Four alternatives are given
to the underlined part which will improve the sentence. Choose to the underlined part which will improve the sentence. Choose
the correct alternative. In case, no improvement is needed, mark the correct alternative. In case no improvement is needed, "No
“No improvement” as your answer. improvement" is the answer.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
121. Sunita’s sister had ribbons on her hair. 131. The more they earn, more they spend.
(a) in (b) over (a) The more they earn, the more they spend
(c) through (d) No improvement (b) More they earn, the more they spend
122. She has an ability for Mathematics. (c) More they earn, more they spend
(a) attitude (b) aptitude (d) No improvement
(c) altitude (d) No improvement 132. The offerings were placed on the alter.
123. I was impressed of it. (a) on the altar (b) on the steps
(a) by (b) on (c) on the platform (d) No improvement
(c) for (d) No improvement 133. Really speaking, no man is perfect.
124. Only high officials have access with the President. (a) Strictly (b) Slightly
(a) to (b) for
(c) Vaguely (d) No improvement
(c) from (d) No improvement
134. Mankind does not know this.
125. No other snake is as poisonous as this one.
(a) do (b) had
(a) are as poisonous as this one
(c) is (d) No improvement
(b) is more poisonous as this one
(c) is poisonous than this one 135. Practically, every part of the coconut tree is used by man.
(d) No improvement (a) each (b) most
(c) any (d) No improvement
DIRECTONS (Qs. 126-130) : In the following questions, a
sentence/a part of the sentence is underlined. Four alternatives DIRECTIONS (Qs. 136-140) : In the following questions, a
are given to the underlined part which will improve the sentence. sentence/a part of the sentence is underlined. Four alternatives
Choose the correct alternative. In case no improvement is needed, are given to the underlined part which will improve the sentence.
“No improvement” is the answer. Choose the correct alternative. In case, no improvement is needed,
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) "No improvement" is the answer.
126. Any able-bodied man is eligible for the job. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
(a) Each able-bodied man is 136. They have had a real good time.
(b) Any able-bodied men have been (a) have had a
(c) Any able-bodied men are (b) have had really
(d) No improvement (c) have had a really
127. She found a wooden broken table in the room. (d) No improvement
(a) wooden and broken table 137. Electricity has modernized the march of modern events.
(b) broken wooden table (a) revolutionised (b) developed
(c) broken and wooden table (c) created (d) No improvement
(d) No improvement
138. The sales boy told the consumer not to touch the products
128. The truck rumbled to a halt and a man got out and ran.
on display.
(a) shrieked at
(a) buyer (b) shopper
(b) screeched to
(c) customer (d) No improvement
(c) screamed at
(d) No improvement 139. Please make it a point to send the letter at my address.
129. The Professor asked the intruder who was he and why was (a) on (b) to
he in his lecture. (c) in (d) No improvement
(a) who he was and why he was 140. Sunil and I helped to sell tickets.
(b) who he was and why was he (a) we (b) us
(c) who he had been and why he had been (c) me (d) No improvement
(d) No improvement DIRECTIONS (Qs. 141-145): In the following questions below,
130. My uncle goes to office on bicycle or by foot.
a part of the sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives
(a) by bicycle or by foot
to the underlined part at (a), (b), (c) which may improve the
(b) by bicycle or on foot
sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case, no improvement
(c) on bicycle or on foot
(d) No improvement is needed, your answer is (d).
(SSC Sub.Inspector 2015)
 86 Sentence Improvement

141. She is very eccentric woman. (c) even in small quantities

(a) unusual (b) impatient (d) No improvement
(c) generous (d) No improvement 154. If you were the Prime Minister of India what steps would you
142. The workers should have been more meticulous. have taken to end unemployment?
(a) precise (b) punctual (a) will you take (b) will you be taking
(c) committed (d) No improvement (c) would you take (d) No improvement
143. The chickens in his farm are fatted up nicely. 155. A high school student is not even understanding the basics
(a) are fattening (b) are fattying of Chemistry and Physics.
(c) are fattened (d) No improvement (a) does not understand even
144. I was angry at myself for making such a big mistake. (b) was not even understanding
(a) about (b) with (c) has even not understood
(c) on (d) No improvement (d) No improvement
145. Torture and trauma has made her a mental patient. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 156-160) : In the following questions, a part of
(a) mad (b) mania the sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives to the
(c) lunatic (d) No improvement underlined part at (a), (b) and (c) which may improve the sentence.
Choose the correct alternative. In case, no improvement is needed,
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 146-150) : In the following questions below, your answer is (d).
a part of the sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2012)
to the underlined part at (a), (b), (c) which may improve the sentence. 156. The ship ran over when it crashed into an iceberg.
Choose the correct alternative. In case, no improvement is (a) get over (b) gave up
needed, your answer is (d). (c) went down (d) No improvement
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2014) 157. His wife was contentious.
146. He will revise it when he is comes back. (a) contagious (b) quarrelsome
(a) when he come back (b) on coming back (c) content (d) No improvement
(c) when he came back (d) No improvement 158. Historians feel there is an earnest need for the review of
history text books every five years and a revision of the
147. The members of the student's union did not give the
same every ten years.
examination in protest.
(a) imperative (b) indispensable
(a) did not write (b) did not sit for
(c) urgent (d) No improvement
(c) did not show up for (d) No improvement
159. My car broke off on my way to the office.
148. She was kept from her assignment because of her loquacious
(a) out (b) in
room-mate.
(c) down (d) No improvement
(a) noisy (b) irritating
160. Freedom is a wonderful thing, for Jimmy was eager to
(c) talkative (d) No improvement
149. James epitomises everything that a leader should be. experience it.
(a) worships (b) loves (a) though (b) and
(c) adores (d) No improvement (c) but (d) No improvement
150. The businessman is respectively connected. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 161-167) : In the following questions, a part
(a) respectfully (b) respectably of the sentence is bolded. Below are given alternatives to the
(c) receptively (d) No improvement bolded part at (a), (b) and (c) which may improve the sentence.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 151-155) : In the following questions, a Choose the correct alternative. In casem no improvement is
sentence / part of the sentence is printed in bold. Below are needed, your answer is (d).
given alternatives to the bold sentence / part of the sentence at (SSC CHSL 2012)
(a), (b) and (c) which may improve the sentence. Choose the 161. The trek is difficult but it is worth well the endeavour.
correct alternative. In case, no improvement is needed, your (a) well worth the endeavour
answer is (d). (b) worth the endeavour well
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2013) (c) the endeavour well worth
151. The gentry of the town was invited. (d) No improvement
(a) is invited (b) has been invited 162. The manager was given a holiday and so he decided to go
(c) were invited (d) No improvement. to the hitch-hiking.
152. After the written exam, you will also have an oral exam. (a) for the hitch-hiking (b) for hitch-hiking
(a) practical (b) viva voice (c) hitch-hiking (d) No improvement
(c) vocal (d) No improvement 163. Goaded to frenzy, the bull charged its tormentors.
153. The regular use of alcohal, only in small quantities, tends to (a) the tormentors were charged by the bull
cause mischief in many ways to various organs of the body. (b) the tormentors were being charged by the bull
(a) though in small quantities (c) the bull charged on its tormentors
(d) No improvement
(b) even in a little quantity
Sentence Improvement 87
164. The war was a time of tribulations for all of us. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 175-178) : In the following questions, a part
(a) intimacy (b) placidity of the sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives to
(c) stupidity (d) No improvement
the underlined part at (a), (b), (c) which may improve the
165. The temptations that bestow young people today are ruining
sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case, no improvement
them.
(a) appeal (b) beset is needed your answer is (d).
(c) confront (d) No improvement (SSC CHSL 2015)
166. We kept all the old paintings in a place where they would 175. She had realized that she had seen him before.
remain safe from harm or danger. (a) had been realized (b) realized
(a) will remain safe (c) has realized (d) No improvement
(b) are safe
(c) may remain safe 176. Being ill, he came to work,
(d) No improvement (a) He came to work and fell ill
167. The tragedy is reflection of an episode that took place a (b) Despite coming to work, he was ill
decade ago. (c) Inspite of being ill, he came to work
(a) rendition
(d) No improvement
(b) reincarnation
(c) reminiscent 177. Hundreds of children are deaf born every year.
(d) No improvement (a) deaf are born every (b) every born are deaf
(c) are born deaf every (d) No improvement
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 168 - 169) : In the following questions, a
part of the sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives 178. She is willing to help you.
to the underlined part at (a), (b), (c) which may improve the (a) wilful (b) willingly
sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case no improvement (c) wilfully (d) No improvement
is needed, your answer is (d).
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 179-182) : In the following questions, a
(SSC CHSL 2013) sentence/ a part of the sentence is underlined. Below are given
168. The commoners joined the king’s army at crushing the alternatives to the underlined part which may improve the
rebels.
sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case, no improvement
(a) into (b) in
(c) without (d) No improvement is needed, choose "No improvement".
169. She is quite well now, except a slight cold. (SSC CHSL 2015)
(a) except have a slight cold 179. Rani has completed her graduation from a reputed university
(b) excepting a slight cold last year.
(c) except for a slight cold
(a) completed (b) No Improvement
(d) No improvement
(c) was completed (d) had been compelted
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 170-174) : In the following question, a part of the
180. The terrorist as well as his accomplices was killed in the
sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives to the underlined
part at (a), (b),(c) which may improve the sentence. Choose the correct encounter.
alternative. In case no improvement is needed your answer is (d). (a) was being killed (b) were killed
(SSC CHSL 2014) (c) No improvement (d) have been killed
170. Sohan is pleased at the news yesterday. 181. The Councillor behaves as if he is the Chief Minister.
(a) has been pleased (b) had been pleased (a) has been (b) were
(c) was pleased (d) No improvement (c) No improvement (d) was
171. She did not like the movie, nor I did. 182. Inspite of age he is my senior.
(a) nor did I. (b) nor I like it.
(a) He is my senior, in keeping with his age.
(c) nor did I like it. (d) No improvement
(b) He is my senior in regard of his age.
172. Old habits die hardly.
(c) No improvement
(a) hard (b) too hard
(c) much hardly (d) No improvement (d) In respect of age, he is my senior.
173. One cannot be indifferent to one's health, can't one DIRECTIONS (Qs. 183-187) : In the following questions, a part
(a) can't be ? (b) can one ? of the sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives to
(c) isn't it ? (d) No improvement the underlined part at (a), (b) and (c) which may improve the
174. The mother with her children were expected. sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case, no improvement
(a) was (b) will is needed, your answer is (d)
(c) have (d) No improvement (SSC Multitasking 2013)
 88 Sentence Improvement

183. On receiving his appointment letter, Ravi treated us with a DIRECTIONS (Qs. 193-197) : In the following Five Questions, a
sumptuous meal. sentence a part of the sentence is underlined. Below are given
(a) treated us to alternatives to the underlined part which may improve the
(b) treated us for sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case no improvement
(c) treated us by is required, choose '' No Improvement'' option.
(d) No improvement (SSC Sub. Ins. 2016)
184. She is scrutinising hard for the final examination. 193. Try to lower the amount of fat in your diet.
(a) recollecting (b) recapitulating (a) No improvement (b) Reduce
(c) revising (d) No improvement (c) Cut (d) Lose
185. Since she directing the play for quite some time, she knows 194. I contradicted against him.
the actors really well. (a) contradicted over (b) No improvement
(a) Since she has directed (c) contradicted (d) contradicted with
(b) Since she has been directing
195. No sooner than it stopped raining, the children went out.
(c) Since she was directing
(a) did it stop raining than
(d) No improvement
186. You can borrow my laptop as long as you promise not to (b) had it stopped raining than
misuse it. (c) No improvement
(a) only long as (b) too long as (d) did it stopped raining than
(c) so long as (d) No improvement 196. You must accustom yourself with new ideas.
187. This is the late edition of the Shakespearean play which was (a) get accustom to
originally published in 1603. (b) accustom yourself to
(a) later (b) latest (c) accustomed yourself with
(c) latter (d) No improvement (d) No improvement
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 188-192) : In the following questions, a part 197. You should cut off on the amount of cigarettes you smoke.
of the sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives to (a) cut up (b) cut down
the underlined part at (a), (b) and (c) which may improve the (c) No improvement (d) cut out
sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case, no improvement DIRECTIONS (Qs. 198-207) : In the following Ten Questions, a
is needed, your answer is (d). part of the sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives to
(SSC Multitasking 2014) the underlined part which may improve the sentence. Choose the
188. I knew that if the animal was at home in that moment it correct alternative. In case, no improvement is required, choose
would probably be sound asleep. "No Improvement" option. Mark your answer in the Answer Sheet.
(a) within that moment (SSC Steno 2013)
(b) about that moment 198. No sane person or government can tolerate terrorists of any
(c) at that moment degree or kind.
(d) No improvement (a) torture of any degree or kind
189. What would you have done if you are attacked by a bandit? (b) No Improvement
(a) if you have been attacked by a bandit (c) terrorism of any degree or kind
(b) if you would have been attacked by a bandit (d) terrorist of any degree or kind
(c) if you were attacked by a bandit 199. Saibal has got an extensive to finish writing his thesis.
(d) No improvement (a) an extension
190. She works so that she may not fail. (b) No Improvement
(a) or that she may not fail (c) an extended
(b) therefore she may fail (d) an extention
(c) lest she should fail 200. She stood by him under all conditions and undaunted by
(d) No improvement anything
191. Looking out of the window the little boy saw a kite entangled (a) through thick and thin
in the branches of the gulmohar tree. (b) No Improvement
(a) Looking at the window (c) without reserve
(b) Peeping in at the window
(d) without hesitation
(c) Gazing out into the window
201. Sheela was reprimanded by the school Marshall for coming
(d) No improvement
192. If you do not mend your behaviour, you will suffer. lately to school.
(a) bend (b) repair (a) to school later (b) No Improvement
(c) tend (d) No improvement (c) to school lately (d) late to school
Sentence Improvement 89

202. Kunal looked very manliness in his police uniform. 213. A person who wants to go out to work should be given the
(a) manly possibility to do so.
(b) No Improvement (a) chance (b) opportunity
(c) menliness (c) preference (d) No improvement
(d) man-like 214. Unless he does not leave this house, I will not say anything.
203. The school was very co-operation when we made a (a) has left (b) left
documentary film there. (c) leaves (d) No improvement
(a) very co-operated 215. The politician surprisingly confesed the responsibility for
the accident.
(b) No Improvement
(a) owned up (b) agreed
(c) very co-operator
(c) acknowledged (d) No improvement
(d) very co-operative
216. Indian democracy is a great attention for overseas investors.
204. "I would like to tell you about this my friend." said John.
(a) attraction (b) demand
(a) this friend (b) No Improvement (c) avocation (d) No improvement
(c) this friend of mine (d) the friend of mine 217. She abandoned the idea of marrying him.
205. The boat was drowned. (a) deserted (b) forsake
(a) sank (b) No Improvement (c) left (d) No improvement
(c) was sunk (d) was drown
206. Either Kiran or Mala is sure to be chosen for the school DIRECTIONS (Qs. 218 - 219) : Improve the bracketed part of
debate. the sentence.
(a) Either Kiran or Mala will (SSC CGL 2017)
(b) No Improvement 218. She did not like to have coffee (nor I did).
(c) Either Kiran or Mala are sure to (a) neither I liked it
(d) Either Kiran nor Mala are sure to (b) nor did I
207. Tom was standing besides the school house poster, towards (c) nor I like it
him. (d) No improvement
(a) stood beside the school-house poster 219. Taj Mahal is (a worth seeing monument) in Agra.
(b) No Improvement (a) a monument to see its worth
(c) standing beside the school-house poster (b) a monument worth seeing
(d) stand besides the school house poster (c) one of worth seeing monuments
(d) No improvement
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 208-217) : In the following questions, a part
of the sentence is underlined. Below are given alternatives to DIRECTIONS (Qs. 220 - 221) : Improve the bracketed part of
the underlined part at (a), (b) and (c) which may improve the the sentence.
sentence. Choose the correct alternative. In case, no improvement
(SSC CGL 2017)
is needed, your answer is (d).
220. I had (a few) eggs in the fridge, so we need to go to the
(SSC Steno 2016) market to buy them.
208. He never thought so sad as when he had made a blunder. (a) a little (b) few
(a) looked (b) cried (c) little (d) No improvment
(c) caused (d) No improvement 221. My brother is indifferent (about) whatever I say.
209. The man taken to the hospital by an ambulance.
(a) in (b) of
(a) was taken (b) took
(c) to (d) No improvement
(c) is taking (d) No improvement
210. I am looking forward to see you soon. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 222 - 223) : Improve the bracketed part of
(a) looking forward towards seeing the sentences.
(b) looking forward for seeing (SSC CGL 2017)
(c) looking forward to seeing 222. By rescuing the child from fire, the local resident (added
(d) No improvement another feather to his cap.)
211. English in India has acquired distinct identity as a regional (a) made a significant achievement
variety and is known as Indian English. (b) was gifted with precious thing
(a) an distinct (b) a distinct (c) was crowned and rewarded
(c) a special (d) No improvement (d) No improvement
212. It is said that Oscar Wilde was most sincere artistically when 223. The government plans to (take up) the construction project
he depicts insincere characters. soon.
(a) were (b) have been (a) Take on (b) Take off
(c) is (d) No improvement (c) Take in (d) No improvement
 90 Sentence Improvement

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 224 - 225) : Improve the bracketed part of 233. Two more employees (will be hiring) by the company.
the sentence. (a) be hiring (b) will be hired
(SSC CGL 2017) (c) will hire (d) No Improvement
224. He has painted that picture so often that he can do it with 234. This (modern furnitures will be sold) in the main market.
his (eyes closed). (a) modern furniture will be sold
(a) arms full (b) eyes opened (b) modern furnitures will be selling
(c) mind blank (d) No improvement (c) modern furniture will be selling
225. If you talk to her nicely, she will probably (allow you) her (d) No Improvement
notes. 235. My boss (have being given) me a lot of work.
(a) allow that you have (a) was being given (b) is being given
(b) let you have
(c) have been giving (d) No Improvement
(c) let you to have
(d) No improvement 236. I (wander about) the stars up in the sky.
(a) wander for (b) wonder about
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 226 – 230): Improve the bracketed part of
the sentence. (c) wander in (d) No improvement
237. Go to the right and (keep a sharp left turn) you will reach
(SSC Sub. Insp. 2017)
the place.
226. Neha was too clever to (see through Rohan's tricks).
(a) take a sharp left turn
(a) see at Rohan's tricks
(b) do a sharp left turn
(b) see into Rohan's tricks.
(c) make a sharp left turn
(c) see Rohan's tricks.
(d) No improvement (d) No Improvement
227. He has been working (off and on) for several years on this 238. Heena (keep a eye) on his son.
theory. (a) kept a eye (b) keep an eye
(a) regularly (b) on or off (c) keeps an eye (d) kept a eyes
(c) on and off (d) No improvement 239. (why is) your working going on?
228. I am definitely late, the bus (will have left) the bus stop by (a) How is (b) What is
the time I reach there. (c) When is (d) No Improvement
(a) would have left (b) will be leaving 240. (Pack your bags) and come with me.
(c) will leave (d) No improvement (a) keep your bag (b) Have your bag
229. (Having had) in the USA Ebassy for a long time, Mr. Gupta (c) unpack your bag (d) No Improvement
has met many prominent personalities.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 241 – 242): Improve the bracketed part of
(a) He has been (b) Having been
(c) Had he been (d) No improvement the sentence
230. The guest stood quietly for (few moments). 241. I perfer black coffee (over) cappuccino. (SSC CHSL 2017)
(a) a few moments (b) the few moments (a) rather than (b) to
(c) few time (d) No improvement (c) instead of (d) no improvement
242. The priest agreed (to answer on) questions on theology.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 231 – 240): In the following question, out of (a) to answer (b) for answering
the four alternatives, select the alternative which will improve (c) to answer for (d) no improvement
the bracketed part of the sentence. In case no improvement is 243. Select the alternative that will improve the underlined part
needed, select "no improvement". of the sentence in case there is no improvement select No
(SSC Stenographer 2017) improvement.
231. (The bundle of coins were the only source) of information The crowd wave feverishly when they saw their leader.
for them. (SSC CHSL 2018)
(a) The bundles of coins were the only source (a) waving hard (b) wave well
(b) The bundles of coins were the only sources (c) No improvement (d) waved frantically
(c) The bundle of coin was the only source 244. Select the alternative that will improve the underlined part
(d) No Improvement of the sentence in case there is no improvement select No
232. No sooner (do the phone ring) that he was out of home. improvement.
(a) did the phone rang I experienced excruciating pain when the hammer fell on my
(b) did the phone rings foot. (SSC CHSL 2018)
(a) exciting pain (b) affable paining
(c) did the phone ring
(c) strong pains (d) No improvement
(d) No improvement
Sentence Improvement 91

245. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the The manager could not able to understand the problem the
underlined segment in the given sentence. factory workers faced. (SSC Steno 2018)
If no substitution is required, select No improvement. (a) No improvement
How long you are living in this city? (SSC CHSL 2018) (b) could not to
(a) are you live (c) was not able to
(b) are you been living (d) never able to
(c) No improvement 252. Select the alternative that will improve the underlined part
of the sentence. In case there is no improvement select
(d) have you lived
“No improvement”.
246. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
Gita suggested that her daughter to open a savings bank
underlined segment in the given sentence.
account. (SSC Steno 2018)
If no substitution is required, select No improvement. (a) No improvement
The female ostrich guards the nest at night and the male (b) that her daughter open
guard it in the day. (SSC CGL 2018) (c) her daughter opening
(a) guard it during the day. (d) her daughter to start
(b) guarding it during day. 253. Select the alternative that will improve the underlined part
(c) guards it during the day. of the sentence. In case there is no improvement select
(d) No improvement “No improvement”. (SSC Steno 2018)
247. Select the alternative that will improve the underlined part Many of my friends come to school by bus.
of the sentence. In case there is no improvement select “No (a) Much of my friends
improvement”. (b) Many who are friends
No sooner did the bell rang than the children ran out of the (c) No improvement
class. (SSC Steno 2018) (d) Many of all my friends
(a) did the bell ring than 254. Select the alternative that will improve the underlined part
(b) the bell ring of the sentence. In case there is no improvement select
(c) No improvement “No improvement”. (SSC Steno 2018)
(d) when the bell rang “Let’s go for a movie this weekend, shall we?”
248. Select the alternative that will improve the underlined part (a) can’t we?
of the sentence. In case there is no improvement select “No (b) No improvement
improvement”. (c) shan’t we?
(d) would we?
Ravi tried to explained him the problem but he refused to
255. Select the alternative that will improve the underlined part
listen. (SSC Steno 2018)
of the sentence. In case there is no improvement select “No
(a) No improvement
improvement”. (SSC Steno 2018)
(b) explain the problem to him
Ail students has a dream to study in a good university.
(c) explaining him the problem
(a) have dream
(d) explain the problem
(b) No improvement
249. Select the alternative that will improve the underlined part (c) has dream
of the sentence. In case there is no improvement select “No (d) have a dream
improvement”. 256. Select the alternative that will improve the underlined part
Mohan is a good actor but his brother is better than him. of the sentence. In case there is no improvement select “No
(SSC Steno 2018) improvement”.
(a) more better My friend said, “Can you please suggest for me a good
(b) quite better school in the neighbourhood?” (SSC Steno 2018)
(c) No improvement (a) suggest to me
(d) very better (b) suggest
250. Select the alternative that will improve the underlined part (c) suggesting me
of the sentence. In case there is no improvement select “No (d) No improvement
improvement”. 257. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
Success and failure in life depends on how well a person underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
uses his time. (SSC Steno 2018) need to substitute it, select No improvement.
(a) depending upon He will pass the driving test if he tries hard enough.
(b) dependent on (SSC Sub-Ins. 2018)
(c) No improvement (a) if he is trying hard
(d) depend on (b) No improvement.
251. Select the alternative that will improve the underlined part (c) if he had tried hard
of the sentence. In case there is no improvement select “No
(d) if he tried hard
improvement”.
 92 Sentence Improvement

258. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the 264. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
need to substitute it, select No improvement. need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
Did you do what I telling you to do yesterday. The new product will be arrive on supermarket shelves early
(SSC Sub-Ins. 2018) next year. (SSC MTS 2018)
(a) what I have told you (a) No substitution required
(b) what I told you (b) will arrive on
(c) No improvement. (c) will arriving on
(d) that I am telling you (d) will arrived on
265. In the sentence identify the segment which contains the
259. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
grammatical error.
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
One of the boys from our school have been selected for
need to substitute it, select No improvement.
National Badminton Championship. (SSC CGL 2019-20)
It is not wise relying to anybody too much.
(a) have been selected
(SSC Sub-Ins. 2018)
(b) from our school
(a) to rely in anybody
(c) for National Badminton Championship
(b) relying at anybody
(d) One of the boys
(c) to rely on anybody 266. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
(d) No improvement. underlined segment in the given sentence. If no substitution
260. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the is required, select No improvement.
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no The Director will agree with the proposal if we do not exceed
need to substitute it, select No improvement. the budget. (SSC CGL 2019-20)
The man who seen the accident to occur telephoned the (a) No Improvement
police. (SSC Sub-Ins. 2018) (b) agree to the proposal
(a) saw the accident was occurring (c) agree on a proposal
(b) saw the accident occurred (d) agreed by the proposal
(c) had seen the accident occur 267. In the sentence identify the segment which contains the
(d) No improvement. grammatical error.
261. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the I can swim very fast when I was only five.
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no (SSC CGL 2019-20)
need to substitute it, select No improvement. (a) very fast (b) I can swim
You must go to Bhopal if you are liking it or not. (c) when I was (d) only five
(SSC Sub-Ins. 2018) 268. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
(a) whether you have liked it underlined segment in the given sentence. If no substitution
is requied, select No improvement.
(b) if you like it
The caption as well the players were responsible for winning
(c) No improvement. the trophy. (SSC CGL 2019-20)
(d) whether you like it (a) No improvement
262. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the (b) The captain as well as the players were
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no (c) As The captain with the players was
need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’. (d) The captain also the players were
They won’t commit themselves until they see which way 269. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
the wind is blowing. (SSC MTS 2018) underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
(a) their till need to substitute it, select No Improvement.
(b) No substitution required Please tell the story in a nutshell. (SSC MTS 2019-20)
(c) themself until (a) at a nutshell (b) in the nutshell
(d) them until.
(c) in nutshells (d) No improvement
263. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no 270. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’. underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
The government is set strict limits on public spending this need to substitute it, select No Improvement.
year. (SSC MTS 2018) He did not like the novel, nor I did.
(a) had been set (SSC MTS 2019-20)
(b) have set (a) nor did I (b) No Improvement
(c) No substitution required (c) nor I like it (d) nor did I likes it
(d) has set
Sentence Improvement 93

271. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the 278. Select the most appropriate option to substitution the
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
need to substitute it, select No Improvement. need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
The father with his children were expected to attend the He won’t come to the party unless you will invite him
function. (SSC MTS 2019-20) personally.
(a) are (b) have (a) No subsitution required
(c) No Improvement (d) was (b) would invite
272. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence. (c) invited
The Delhi Police has shot an educational video on Traffic (d) invite
Rules for school students. (SSC CHSL 2019-20) 279. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
(a) An educational video on Traffic Rules for school underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
students was being shot by the Delhi Police. need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
(b) An educational video on Traffic Rules for school Children need much of guidance in how to use the internet
students had been shot by the Delhi Police. wisely and efficiently. (SSC MTS 2020-21)
(c) An educational video on Traffic Rules for school (a) most
(b) No substitution required
students has been shot by the Delhi Police.
(c) a lot
(d) An educational video on Traffic Rules for school (d) many
students is being shot by the Delhi Police. 280. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
273. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
need to substitute it, select ‘No improvement’. You should live throughout your means.
India has lost a veteran actor with the DECEASED of (SSC MTS 2020-21)
Shriram Lagoo. (SSC CHSL 2019-20) (a) within
(a) No improvement (b) expired (b) among
(c) bereavement (d) demise (c) No substitution required
274. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence. (d) between
Sitab asked his mother, “Has it been snowing all night?” 281. Identify the segment in the sentence which contains a
(SSC CHSL 2019-20) grammatical error. (SSC MTS 2020-21)
Last week we thrown a party for Arun.
(a) Sitab asked his mother if it is snowing all night.
(a) for Arun (b) Last week
(b) Sitab asked his mother if it had been snowing all night. (c) a party (d) we thrown
(c) Sitab asked his mother if it was snowing all night. 282. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
(d) Sitab asked his mother if it has snowed all night. underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
275. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
underlined segment in the given sentence. If no substitution I am trying my best to give in junk food.
is required, select ‘No substitution’. (SSC MTS 2020-21)
Many of the apples was rotten. (a) No substitution required
(SSC CGL 2020-21) (b) give back
(a) No substitution (b) was being rotten (c) give up
(c) is rotten (d) were rotten (d) give out
276. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the under 283. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
lined sengment in the given sentence. If no substitution is underlined segment in the given sentence. If no subsitution
is required, select ‘no substitution’.
required, select ‘No substitute’.
Does this plant be kept indoors?
Although the children studied hard, but they could not (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
understand the topic without the help of the teacher. (a) No substitution (b) Can
(SSC CGL 2020-21) (c) Do (d) Did
(a) Although the children had study hard, but they 284. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
(b) No substitution underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
(c) Although the children studied hard, they need to substitute, it select ‘No substitution’.
(d) Although the children have studied hard, but they (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
277. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underline Her coach allowed she swimming in deep water.
segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to (a) she to swim (b) her to swim
substitute it, select ‘No substitution.’ (c) No substitution (d) her swimming
Mr. Sharma is kind as his father. (SSC CHSL 2020-21) 285. Select the most appropriate option to improve the underlined
segment in th given sentence. if there is no need to improve
(a) kinder as (b) the kindest as
it, select ‘No improvement required’.
(c) as kind as (d) No substitution
 94 Sentence Improvement

What might spot a tiger in the Sariska reserve if you would The secretary talks over the phone right now.
be lucky. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(a) it if was (a) talked
(b) No improvement required (b) was talking
(c) if you are (c) No substitution required
(d) then you are (d) is talking
286. Select the most appropriate option to improve the underlined 293. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to improve underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
it, select ‘No improvement required’. need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21) She is taking all kinds of medicine wherever she goes.
Whoever performs exceptionally will he will be promoted (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
immediately. (a) was taking
(a) No improvement required (b) took
(b) will be (c) No substitution required
(c) he would be (d) takes
(d) he should be 294. Select the option that will improve the underlined part of
287. There is an underlined segment in the given sentence. Select the sentence. In case no improvement is needed, select
the most appropriate option to subsitute the segment. If ‘No improvement required’. (SSC MTS 2021-22)
there is no need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution
Why doesn’t you try calling your family again?
required”. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
I like Rahane’s style of batting more than Kohli. (a) you don’t tries (b) doesn’t you tried
(a) more from Kohli (b) more from Kohli’s (c) don’t you try (d) No improvement required
(c) No substitute required (d) more than Kohli’s 295. Select the option that will improve the underlined part of
288. Select the most appropriate option to improve the underlined the given sentence. In case no improvement is needed,
segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to improve select ‘No improvement required’.
it, select ‘No improvement required’. I noticed some strawberries grown in which of the gardens.
Sonali as well as her brother is performing at the show (SSC MTS 2021-22)
tonight. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) (a) growing in which of
(a) No improvement required (b) grows upon one of
(b) were performing (c) No improvement required
(c) have performance (d) growing in one of
(d) are performing 296. Select the option that will improve the underlined part of
289. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the the sentence. In case no improvement is needed, select
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no ‘No improvement required’. (SSC MTS 2021-22)
need to substitute it, select, “No substitute”. He stood up from their chair to signal the end of the meeting.
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21) (a) up from his
By withhold the officer’s promotion, the department caused (b) upon of his
her a great deal of frustration. (c) No improvement required
(a) To with holding (b) in withhold (d) below in their
(c) No substitution (d) By withholding 297. Select the option that will improve the underlined part of
290. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the the given sentence. In case no improvement is needed,
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no select ‘No improvement required’.
need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’. Shubham and I were watching football match in our
Had I a rich person, I would share my wealth. bedroom. (SSC MTS 2021-22)
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21) (a) I were watched (b) I was watching
(a) No substitution required (c) me is watching (d) No improvement required
(b) I am 298. Select the option that will improve the underlined part of
(c) Had I been the given sentence. In case no improvement is needed,
(d) Were I select ‘No improvement required’.
291. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the Although the waters may have receded, the aftermath of
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no one of the world’s biggest natural disaster had only just
need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’. begun. (SSC MTS 2021-22)
When I left my house this morning, it was raining. (a) the aftermath of one of the world’s biggest natural
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21) disasters
(a) rained (b) is raining (b) No improvement required
(c) rains (d) No substitution required (c) the aftermath of one of the worlds’ biggest natural
292. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the disasters has
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no (d) the aftermath of one of the worlds’ biggest natural
need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’. disaster
Sentence Improvement 95

299. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the (a) pull together (b) pull up
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no (c) pull down (d) pull through
need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’. 307. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the
The authorities are assured the people that they will look underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
into the matter. (SSC CGL 2021-22) need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
(a) has assured (b) have assured The cashier admitted that he was make a mistake.
(c) have been assured (d) No substitution required (SSC Stenographer 2022)
300. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the (a) have make a mistake
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no (b) had made a mistake
need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required.’ (c) No substitution required
A tigress has given birth to a cub in the Ranthambore Tiger (d) will make a mistake
Reserve, taking the big cat population to 78. 308. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the
(SSC CGL 2021-22) underlined segment in the given sentence.
(a) is given births (b) was birthed (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
(c) has give birth (d) no substitution required Antonio Stradivari was an Italian who is being made
301. Select the sentence with the appropriate use of adverb of wonderful violins.
manner. (SSC CGL 2022) (a) who made wonderful
(a) He done his work regularly. (b) who have made wonderful
(b) He has just done his work. (c) who is made wonderful
(c) He does his work carefully. (d) who makes wonderful
(d) He has done his work on my table. 309. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the
302. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence.
underlined segment in the given sentence. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
(SSC Stenographer 2022) I enjoy to be laugh at my little brother.
The budding photographer used to climbed up the hill ev- (a) am enjoy to laughing at
(b) enjoy laughed at
ery morning to capture the beauty of the rising sun.
(c) enjoy laughing at
(a) climbing up (b) is climbs up
(d) have enjoy laughing at
(c) climbs up (d) climb up
310. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the
303. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the
underlined segment in the given sentence.
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
When the weather is hot, I will like to eat ice cream.
(SSC Stenographer 2022)
(a) I shall like to eat (b) I liked to eat
In spite of being seriously handicapped, Stephen Hawk-
(c) I like to eat (d) I should like to eat
ing’s is one of most eminent modern scientists. 311. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the
(a) is one of the most (b) was one among most underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
(c) been one of the (d) No substitution required need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
304. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the As Simon had already been to the park, he lead the way for
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no the other children. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’. (a) leading the way (b) lead away
You must employ additional hands in complete the project (c) led the way (d) No substitution required
in time. (SSC Stenographer 2022) 312. Select the word segment that substitutes (replaces) the
(a) in completing the project in time bracketed word segment correctly and completes the
(b) for completing the project of time sentence meaningfully. In case no improvement is needed,
(c) No substitution required select 'No improvement'. (SSC CHSL 2023)
(d) to complete the project on time (That's one of the strongest swear word) in Spanish.
305. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the (a) That is of the strongest swear words
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no (b) That's the strongly swear words
need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution’. (c) That's one of the strongest swear words
The movie Jumanji is base on a children’s book of the same (d) No improvement
title. (SSC Stenographer 2022) 313. Improve the underlined part of the sentence. Choose 'No
(a) No substitution (b) is based of improvement' as an answer if the sentence is grammatically
(c) is based upon (d) is being based by correct. (SSC CHSL 2023)
306. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the I try to travelling lightly, packing only the bare essentials.
underlined segment in the given sentence. (a) No improvement (b) travelled light
Unless we co-operate and work together, we cannot suc- (c) travels lightly (d) travel lightly
ceed. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
 96 Sentence Improvement

HINTS & EXPLANATIONS

1. (a) Phrase ‘cut out’ means : to have the qualities and 27. (d) Propitious means likely to result in success.
abilities needed for something. 28. (c) ‘too bigoted’ is the correct usage.
2. (d) No improvement 29. (b) ‘had been doing’ should be used because the tense
3. (c) ‘requires a wash’ should be used should be in past perfect continuous.
4. (a) ‘Word for word’ means : in exactly the same words or 30. (c) Tuck somebody in/up means : to make somebody feel
when translated, exactly equivalent words. comfortable in bed by pulling the covers up around
5. (b) The word Sensual (adjective) means: connected with them.
your physical feelings; giving pleasure to your 31. (b) Hang by a thread/hair means : to be in great danger.
physical senses; especially to sexual pleasures. 32. (c) Be at the end of your tether means : to feel that you
6. (c) ‘disguise myself’ should be used cannot deal with a difficult situation any more because
7. (b) ‘Not’ should be removed because the word ‘denied’ you are too tired and worried etc.
itself means no or not. Use of ‘not’ again in the later 33. (d) No improvement
part of the sentence will change the meaning of the 34. (d) No improvement
sentence. 35. (c) ‘nearly all his many pets’ is the correct usage
8. (d) No improvement 36. (a) Here, the second clause is in the past tense, to maintain
9. (a) ‘ruled out’ is the correct phrase the temporal sequence, the first clause should be in
10. (c) ‘Generates’ and ‘produces’ are same in meaning, future using the past form of ‘will’, however, the past
however, here, ‘produces’ should be used as it is the participle of the main verb after 'would have' is required
most appropriate in the context of the sentence. i.e ‘had’ which plays the role of the main verb.
11. (b) ‘He has left India for good’ is the correct structure. 37. (a) ‘from which’ is best suited because the sentence talks
12. (d) Give yourself up to somebody means : to offer yourself about evidences that are collected from a source.
to be captured. 38. (a) ‘as much as they possibly could’ is the correct
13. (a) Implies only one from many structure; here, adjective should be followed by a verb.
14. (a) ‘the name of which I have... .’ 39. (b) The correct word should be ‘loyalty’
15. (c) ‘both a medal and a scholarship’ is the correct structure. 40. (c) ‘At daggers drawn’ is an idiom which means an
16. (c) ‘What do you go to school for?’ is the correct structure argument between two people.
of an interogative sentence.
41. (c) ‘has’ is the correct usage.
17. (b) ‘He completed his report in good time and this pleased
42. (c) ‘Hell bent upon getting’ means fully committed to
the directors’ is the correct sentence.
achieving a goal.
18. (c) ‘The courtiers used to tell the King all day long how
43. (c) ‘looking forward to’ seeing is the correct usage.
efficient an administrator he was’ is the correct
44. (b) ‘why he did not eat’ is the correct form.
structure.
45. (a) ‘who bids the highest’ should be used.
19. (d) No improvement
46. (a) The sentence should be in simple past and not past
20. (c) ‘We had a grand party and we enjoyed ourselves very
perfect because of the presence of ‘hasn’t done it yet’.
much’ is the correct structure.
47. (b) ‘have been waiting’ should be used as the process of
21. (b) ‘Vitiate’ means to spoil; ‘Distort’ means to pull or twist
waiting is still in process, thus, present continuous
and ‘Distract’ means to prevent someone from
tense should be used.
concentracting on something. ‘Distract’ fulfils the
48. (b) The sentence talks about a point of time i.e. the last time
meaning of the sentence.
the person was seen hence, ‘since’ should be used.
22. (c) ‘The study of AIDS’ is the correct structure to start the
49. (c) ‘knocked down’ should be used as it means to cause
sentence.
something or somebody to fall to the ground by
23. (b) A thesis can’t be estimated i.e. calculated. ‘Commend’
striking or pushing.
means to praise formally or officially. ‘Commend’ suits
50. (a) ‘touch upon’ should be used as it is a phrasal verb.
the best as only after a formed appraisal, the thesis can
51. (d) No improvement
be forwarded for publication.
52. (a) Look for the correct arrangement of words
24. (d) No improvement
53. (a) ‘made its way past’ is the correct usage.
25. (a) ‘precise and original’ is the correct usage.
54. (a) For singular subject (the firm), ‘it’ should be used.
26. (b) ‘Get over something’ means to accept an unpleasant
55. (c) ‘are expected’ should be used.
fact or situation after dealing with it for a while.
56. (b) ‘will enable Japan’ should be used.
Sentence Improvement 97

57. (a) Alma mater = the school, college that somebody went to 92. (d) The statement requires no improvement.
58. (d) No improvement. 93. (c) The statement may be rectified as 'Here is something
59. (a) Past tense should follow as the first clause is in past pretty that Vinita can wear to the party'.
tense. 94. (a) The sentence may be rectified as 'of owning'. So, the
60. (a) Present Perfect Continuous should be used as the work sentence will be 'I have dreamt all my life of owning a
continued in the past and still continues. beautiful maroon coloured car'.
61. (c) Here, Simple Past should be used. 95. (a) The sentence may be rectified as 'he watched the sun
62. (b) There is an error related to positioning of words. go down'. So, the sentence will be 'Sitting on the top of
63. (c) Raise = to lift or move something to a higher level. the hill, he watched the sun go down'.
Rise = to move upward 96. (b) 'Soon to' may be replaced with ‘about to’.
64. (a) Have = had (Past) = had (Past Participle) 97. (a) The underlined part may be replaced with 'out of the
65. (b) ‘sit on’ is the correct usage. way'.
66. (d) No improvement 98. (c) 'On' may be replaced with 'upon'. So, the sentence will
67. (a) Here, contrast is evident so ‘but’ will be used. be 'I prevailed upon him to vote for you'.
68. (d) No improvement 99. (b) The underlined portion may be replaced with 'the stu-
69. (c) No need of double subjects. dent made studying his top priority'.
70. (c) Pull down = demolish; destroy a building completely. 100. (c) The underlined portion in the sentence may be replaced
71. (c) Here, we are comparing the climate of Karnataka with with 'unless he is invited'.
the climate of Tamil Nadu and not with Tamil Nadu 101. (b) If you say it's high time that something happened, you
itself; hence, we will use 'than that of'. mean that it should already have been done.
72. (a) If someone suffers from an unpleasant or difficult 102. (d) No improvement.
experience or situation, then we use 'suffer from.' Ex: 103. (a) 'He lacks common sense' is a meaningful sentence.
Shiela is suffering from ill health. Lately, factories are Others are not.
suffering from a desperate shortage of labourers. 104. (a) ‘one had done’. is the correct usage.
73. (a) The correct arrangement of sentence is - I gave Sana 105. (c) Experience may be gained, acquired or gathered; hence,
the keys. option (c) is correct.
74. (a) When you are using ‘if’ to talk about something that is 106. (d) Ingestion is the process of taking food into the body
unlikely to happen or is impossible, use the past tense through the mouth (as by eating).
in the if-clause, not present. Ex: If someone gave me 107. (d) No improvement.
(NOT gives or would give me) the money, I'd buy a car 108. (c) ‘Mumbai is famous for’ is the correct usage.
tomorrow. 109. (b) ‘They talked......’ is the correct usage.
75. (c) 'He compensated me for the loss,' is the correct answer. 110. (c) A tag question is one where a statement is made, but
76. (b) The preposition 'to' is complementary with the speaker wants a response from the listener. The
‘accountable’. given sentence is in simple present with third person,
77. (a) Look for the correct arrangement of words. so response will be 'doesn't he?'
78. (c) Present tense shows what exits or happening now. It 111. (d) Nor doesn't necessarily have to appear in a sentence
also denotes a habit which in this case is the timing of with the word "neither."
having lunch. 112. (a) ‘If I get’ is the correct usage.
79. (a) Here 'agriculturally' is the adverb that adds to the 113. (a) The second part of the sentence clears the ambiguity
meaning of the adjective 'strong'. with 'approval.' Hence, ‘nodded’ is the right usage.
80. (b) Superior always takes the preposition 'to'. Ex: Your 114. (b) ‘The world is facing a crisis’ is a meaningful sentence.
computer is far superior to mine. 115. (c) The verb ‘insist’ may be used as follows: She insisted
81. (b) ‘heading towards’ is the correct usage. on her being innocent or she insisted that she was
82. (a) Twenty kms is..., innocent.
83. (b) ‘I adopted’ a new method is the correct usage. 116. (b) No improvement.
84. (a) ‘I had won as a prize’ is the correct usage. 117. (a) ‘I took some grapes for my mother (subject 'I' + verb +
85. (b) ‘ready to bear with’ is the correct usage. immediate object grapes)’ is the correct usage.
86. (b) ‘the more they earn, the more they spend’ is the correct 118. (c) If the verb is in the simple past we use ‘did’. Ex: They
usage. went to the theatre, didn't they? She studied in New
87. (a) ‘with a view to insulting me’ is the correct usage. York, didn't she?
88. (b) ‘was used at.........’ is the correct usage. 119. (d) ‘Both the teams played a fair game’ is the correct
89. (c) Though the painting is not liked, however, ‘little’ word sentence.
has been added to show respect to the painting. 120. (b) No improvement.
90. (b) Look for the correct arrangement of words. 121. (a) ‘in’ would be the correct word to use.
91. (a) The underlined portion must be rectified to 'you de- 122. (b) ‘aptitude for mathematics’ is the correct usage.
spair of the success of your undertaking'.
 98 Sentence Improvement

123. (a) ‘impressed by’ is the correct usage. 166. (d) No improvement
124. (a) ‘access to’ is the correct usage. 167. (c) reminiscent
125. (d) No improvement. 168. (b) ‘in’ preposition should be used.
126. (d) No improvement. 169. (c) ‘except for a slight cold’is the correct usage.
127. (b) ‘broken wooden table’ is the correct usage. 170. (c) Sohan was pleased at the news yesterday. is the
128. (b) ‘screeched to’ is the correct usage. correct sentence.
129. (a) ‘who he was and why he was’ is the correct usage. 171. (a) ‘She did not like the movie, nor did I’ is the correct
130. (b) ‘by bicycle or on foot’ is the correct usage. sentence.
131. (a) ‘The more they earn, the more they spend’ is the correct 172. (a) ‘Old habits die hard’. is the correct sentence.
sentence. 173. (b) ‘One cannot be indifferent to one's health, can one?’
132. (a) Altar means a table or flat–topped block used as the is the correct sentence.
focus for a religious ritual, especially, for making 174. (a) ‘The mother with her children was expected’.is the
offerings or sacrifices. correct sentence.
133. (a) ‘Strictly speaking’ is the correct usage. 175. (b) ‘She realized’ is the correct usage.
134. (d) No improvement 176. (c) ‘Inspite of being ill’ is the correct usage.
135. (d) No improvement 177. (c) ‘are born deaf every’ is the correct usage.
136. (b) ‘have had really’ is the correct usage. 178. (d) No improvement
137. (a) ‘revolutionized’ is the correct usage. 179. (a) We will use ‘completed’ as it is simple past which is
138. (c) ‘Customer’ is one who buys a product and ‘consumer’ used to express the idea that an action started and
is one who uses or consumes a product. Hence, finished at a specific time in the past.
‘customer’ suits to the meaning of the sentence. 180. (c) No improvement
139. (b) ‘to’ should be used. 181. (b) We will replace ‘is’ with ‘were’ because in an unreal
140. (d) No improvement conditional sentence where the events are contrary to
141. (a) Eccentric = unusual, others have a different meaning the facts, we use ‘if ’ clauses with ‘were’ even if the
142. (c) ‘Committed’ should be used because it means willing pronoun is singular.
to work hard. 182. (d) In respect of age, he is my senior.
143. (a) ‘are fattening’ is the correct usage. 183. (a) ‘treated us to’ which also means ‘offered us’ should be
144. (b) ‘with’ should be used. used.
145. (c) ‘lunatic’ is the correct usage. 184. (c) ‘revising hard’ should be used.
146. (b) ‘He will revise it on coming back’. is the correct 185. (b) ‘Since she has been directing’ should be used.
sentence. 186. (c) ‘so long as’ will be the exact phrase.
147. (b) ‘The members of the student's union did not sit for the 187. (b) ‘latest’ will be the correct word here.
examination in protest’ is the correct sentence. 188. (c) I knew that if the animal was at home at that moment, it
148. (d) No improvement would probably be sound asleep. The preposition 'at'
149. (d) No improvement is used to signify the point in time.
150. (a) ‘The businessman is respectfully connected’. is the 189. (c) What would you have done if you were attacked by a
correct sentence. bandit? If, will, would and were are used in case of
151. (c) ‘Gentry’ is plural in number. So, ‘were’ should be used. condition and/or imagination.
152. (b) ‘Viva voice’ is the appropriate word to use. 190. (d) No improvement.
153. (b) Here, ‘even in a little quantity’ should be used. 191. (d) No improvement.
154. (c) Conditional sentence is in Past Simple. Hence, would 192. (d) The sentence is correct and doesn't need any
you take ... should be used. improvement. The idiom ' mend your behaviour' means
155. (a) Here, generality is evident. Hence, Simple Present to improve your behavior and stop doing things that
should be used. cause trouble.
156. (c) ‘went down’ should be used 193. (b) 194. (c) 195. (d) 196. (b) 197. (b)
157. (b) Contentious means causing or likely to cause an 198. (c) 199. (a)
argument. Best alternative is ‘quarrelsome’. 200. (a) ‘Through thick and thin’ is a phrase which means under
158. (c) ‘urgent’ is the best alternative. all circumstances, no matter how difficult the situation
159. (c) ‘down’ the best alternative to use with ‘broke’. is.
160. (b) ‘and’ is the correct usage. 201. (d) 202. (a) 203. (d) 204. (c) 205. (a)
161. (a) ‘well worth the endeavour’ is the correct usage. 206. (a) 207. (c) 208. (a) 209. (a) 210. (c)
162. (c) ‘go hitch-hiking’ is the correct usage. 211. (b) 212. (c) 213. (b) 214. (c) 215. (a)
163. (d) No improvement 216. (a) 217. (c) 218. (b) 219. (b) 220. (b)
164. (d) No improvement 221. (c) 222. (a) 223. (d) 224. (d) 225. (b)
165. (b) ‘beset’ is the correct usage. 226. (d) No improvement
Sentence Improvement 99

227. (c) Replace' off and on' by 'on and off'. 257. (b) No impovement
228. (a) Replace 'will have left' by 'would have left'. 258. (b)
229. (b) Replace 'Having had' by 'Having been'. 259. (c) 'to rely on anybody' is the correct phrase to use.
260. (c) The sentence requires three past perfect tense.
230. (a) Replace' few' by 'a few'.
261. (d) 'Whether you like it' is the correct phrase to use in the
231. (a) The bundles of coins were the only source of sentence.
information for them. [bundles should be plural] 262. (b) Here, 'thenselves' is the reflexive pronoun of 'they' other
232. (c) ‘No sooner did the phone ring that he was out of home’ options do not fit correct grammatically. Hence 'No
is the correct sentence. substitution is required'.
233. (b) Two more employees will be hired by the company. 263. (d) 'has set' is the correct option as 'the government' is
[The sentence is in passive voice, thus be +ed will be taken as singular noun 'had been set' and 'is set' are
used]. used in passive voice.
234. (a) This modern furniture will be sold in the main market. 264. (b) 'Will arrive on' is the correct answer as other options
[Furniture is always used in singular form.] (will be arrive on, will arriving on, will arrived on) are
235. (c) My boss have being giving me a lot of work. [The not grammatically correct.
sentence is in Present Perfect Progressive tense, and 265. (a) Have been selected should be replaced with has been
hence have been+ V+ing is used]. selected as the helping verb should be used according
236. (b) ‘I wonder about the stars up in the sky’. is the correct to the structure (one of + plural subject + singular
sentence. verb….).
237. (a) ‘Go to the right and take a sharp left turn, you will 266. (b) ‘Agree to’ is the right at the place of ‘agree with’ in the
reach the place’ is the correct sentence. given context.
Agree with means to have the same opinion as another
238. (c) ‘Heena keeps an eye on his son’ is the correct
person or to approve of something.
sentence.
Agree to means to commit to (a course of action, a
239. (a) How is your working going on? [A 'why' question tries proposal, etc.)
to find a reason & a 'how' question tries to find a 267. (b) The sentence discusses a past event hence ‘I can swim’
description.] should be replaced with ‘I could swim’.
240. (d) No Improvement. 268. (b) In the case of ‘as well as’ verb should be used according
241. (b) ‘I prefer black coffee to cappuccino’ is the correct usage to first subject (the captain) which is singular subject.
of preposition ‘to’ here. The only option (b) has the singular form of verb (was).
242. (a) The correct usage is ‘to answer’. Hence, it is the right option.
243. (d) Since the sentence is in past tense, the underlined part 269. (d) There is no improvement needed. The given sentence
should also be in past tense. Therefore, ‘waved is correct.' Ina nutshell' means in the fewest possible
frantically’ is the correct phrase to make the sentence words.
grammatically correct. 270. (a) Nor I did is grammatically incorrect and the correct way
244. (d) No improvement to put it is 'Nor did I'.
245. (d) The present perfect tense is used to describe 271. (d) 'Were' is incorrect as its used for plural noun and here
something that happened in the past, but the exact the noun is singular and thus we use 'was'.
time it happened is not important. It has a relationship 272. (c) The sentence has 'has shot' indicating a continuity;
with the present. therefore option c is correct as it has 'has been shot'
246. (c) Compound sentences (two sentences joined by a indicating a continuity.
clause) have a subject and verb in each clause. Hence, 273. (d) Demise means death. Also, we are looking for a noun
the subject of each clause should agree with the verb of here and not adjective.
each clause. 274. (b) 'has it been' indicates a present continuous tense, so
247. (a) Use of 'rang' after 'did' is incorrect because did always when converted into indirect speech it is to be 'had
takes the present tense. Therefore, 'rang' should be been'.
replaced with 'ring' to make the sentence grammatically 275. (d) 'Was' is used with a singular past tense and 'were' is
correct. used with a plural past tense. Many of the apples are a
248. (b) 'explain the problem to him' is the correct phrase to use plural form and thus the usage of 'were'.
in the sentence. 276. (c) Option (c) is the correct response as although and but
249. (c) should not comes in the same sentence. As both
250. (d)
'Success and failure' (plural) will take 'depend'. function to negate an already stated idea.
251. (c)
252. (b) 277. (c) Simili-is a figure of speech involving the comparison of
253. (c)
No improvement one thing with another thing. It is used to make a
254. (b)
No improvement description vivid. For example: you were as brave as a
255. (d)
Since 'students' are plural, it will take the plural verb
lion. Hence, ‘Mr. Sharma is as kind as his father’ is the
'have'.
256. (a) Remove 'to' as it is superfluous. correct response.
 100 Sentence Improvement

278. (d ) Option (d) is the correct response ‘invite’. This is 299. (b) “have assured” should replace the underlined part of the
because the sentence is in present tense form and takes sentence to make the sentence grammatically correct.
a present tense with it. 300. (d) No substitution required.
301. (c) Adverb of manner is ‘carefully’
279. (c) Of all the given options, option three 'a lot' fits best.
Adverb of frequency is ‘regularly’
Most/many/much are suitable with the verb guidance.
Adverb of place is ‘on my table’
280. (a) 'Live within one's means' is a phrase which means to
302. (d) The correct form of the word is ‘climb’ up. The phrase
spend money only on what one can afford.
‘used to’ is followed by the infinitive/root form of the
281. (d) Last week 'we threw / had thrown' a party for Arum
verb.
would be grammatically correct. 'We thrown' is
grammatically incorrect. 303. (a) The word ‘most’ is a superlative form which should
282. (c) Give in- means to surrender. And give up means to leave always be preceded by the word ‘the’. For example,
something. Therefore, the answer is give up. ‘This is the tallest building in the city.’, ‘She got the
283. (b) We often use 'can' to talk about ability to do something easiest of questions to do.’, ‘Today, I met the most
in the present or future. beautiful person on the earth.’ etc.
284. (b) The sentence is in simple present tense and will take a 304. (d) ‘You must employ additional hands to complete the
verb which is simple present tense form. Also, the project on time. ‘On time’ indicates that a task is
difference between she and her is that 'her' follows 'she' completed exactly when it should have i.e. without any
for the better structuring of a sentence. Because her delay. Thus, option (d) is the right choice for the given
has already been used it will follow. sentence.
285. (c) Would is used to refer to actions and events in the 305. (c) The correct sentence is ‘The movie Jumanji is based
past. The sentence is in present tense and referring to
upon the children’s book of the same title.’ The past
a future possibility and so we use present tense (are)
with 'if' indicating a future possibility. participle form of the verb ‘base’ should be used to
286. (b) Because the sentence says 'whoever' and does not give make the sentence grammatically correct. When
away the gender we must too avoid the gender 'he'. something is ‘based upon’ another thing, it derives its
287. (d) It should be Kohli's as the apostrophe s indicates his ideas or concepts from that thing.
style of batting as opposed to just kohli which means 306. (a) All the given phrasal verbs with ‘pull’ exist but only
kohli as a person. the first one gives the sentence its meaning.
288. (a) No improvement required. Idiomatically, ‘to pull together’ means to come together
289. (d) The sentence has to be in present continuous tense. to accomplish a certain task. Thus, option (a) is correct.
290. (d) If we were to employ 'had' then it would be ' Had I 307. (b) The structure of the past perfect tense is had + past
been a rich person then I would have shared my
participle form of the verb. Thus, ‘had made’ is the
wealth.'-all in past tense form. Therefore, since the
correct form of verb here.
sentence is in present tense form, we use 'were' instead.
291. (d) 'When I left my house this morning, it was raining.' 308. (a) The sentence should be written in simple past tense
Since the action being talked about is in the past we because Antonio Stradivari belongs to the past. Thus,
cannot choose present form of the verbs like rains or the correct sentence will be ‘Antonio Stradivari was
raining. We can neither go for simple past tense like an Italian who made wonderful violins.’
rained. Thus, we choose past continuous tense-it was 309. (c) The correct sentence will be ‘I enjoy laughing at my
raining. little brother’. It is not ‘to be laugh’ but ‘laugh at’
292. (d) 'Right now' conveys present continuous tense. Thus, someone in order to mock them.
'is talking'.
310. (c) The correct sentence is ‘When the weather is hot, I
293. (d) The sentence is in simple present tense and thus
'takes'. like to eat ice-cream’. Note that we use simple present
294. (c) As the subject of the sentence is you, it will take don't tense to talk about a habit or tendency.
with it as per the general grammar rules. Correct sentence: 311. (c) From the first clause itself it is clear that the tense
Why don't you try calling your family again? used is past perfect tense (had already been).
295. (d) Growing is a gerund that should be used here. Correct Therefore, to give the sentence apt meaning and make
sentence: I noticed some strawberries growing in one of it grammatically correct, ‘led the way’ should be used.
the gardens. 312. (c) One of the + superlative degree should conjugate with
296. (a) We need to show possession here, so we will use a plural noun because we are talking about one member
possessive pronoun 'his', as he was sitting on his chair.
of a group.
Correct sentence: He stood up from his chair to signal
the end of the meeting. 313. (d) Here, Infinitive i.e. to + V1 will be used. Correct
297. (d) The given sentence is an example of subjective case sentence: I try to travel lightly packing only the bare
pronoun. Hence, no improvement required. essentials.
298. (a) Option (a) is correct as the structure is: One of the +
plural nouns.
One Word Substitution 101

One Word
6
56
Chapter
Substitution
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 1-5): In the following questions, out of the 11. A post with little work but high salary
four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for (a) Director (b) Trustee
the given words/sentence. (c) Sinecure (d) Ombudsman
12. Something that causes death
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2010) (a) Dangerous (b) Fatal
1. An underhand device resorted to in order to justify (c) Brutal (d) Horrible
misconduct 13. A person who writes decoratively
(a) Subterfuge (b) Manoeuvre (a) Calligrapher (b) Collier
(c) Stratagem (d) Complicity (c) Choreographer (d) Cartographer
2. Impossible to describe 14. Pertaining to cattle
(a) Miraculous (b) Ineffable (a) Canine (b) Feline
(c) Stupendous (d) Appalling (c) Bovine (d) Verminous
3. One who criticises popular beliefs which he thinks is 15. To look at someone in an angry or threatening way
mistaken or unwise (a) Glower (b) Gnaw
(a) Philistine (b) Iconoclast (c) Gnash (d) Grind
(c) Imposter (d) Cannibal
4. Detaining and confining someone DIRECTIONS (Qs. 16-20) : In the following questions, out of the
(a) Interruption (b) Interrogation four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for
(c) Internment (d) Liberation the given words/sentence.
5. Science of the races of mankind (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2011)
(a) Genealogy (b) Epistemology 16. An inscription on a tomb
(c) Ethnology (d) Sociology (a) Espionage (b) Epilogue
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 6–10) : In the following questions, out of the (c) Epitaph (d) Elegy
four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for 17. Feeling inside you which tells you what is right and what is
the given words/ sentence. wrong :
(a) Cleaverness (b) Conscience
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2010) (c) Consciousness (d) Fear
6. One who hides away on a ship to obtain a free passage 18. Release of a prisoner from jail on certain terms and condition
(a) Compositor (b) Stoker (a) Parole (b) Parley
(c) Stowaway (d) Shipwright (c) Pardon (d) Acquittal
7. Clues available at a scene 19. Loss of memory
(a) Circumstantial (b) Derivative (a) Ambrosia (b) Amnesia
(c) Inferential (d) Suggestive (c) Insomnia (d) Forgetting
8. An unexpected piece of good fortune 20. To struggle helplessly
(a) Windfall (b) Philanthropy (a) Flounder (b) Founder
(c) Benevolence (d) Turnstile (c) Fumble (d) Finger
9. An emolument over and above fixed income or salary DIRECTIONS (Qs. 21-25) : In the following questions, out of the
(a) Honorarium (b) Sinecure four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for
(c) Perquisite (d) Prerogative the given words/ sentence.
10. The animals of a particular region.
(a) Flora (b) Museum (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012)
(c) Zoo (d) Fauna 21. One who loves books
(a) Bibliophile (b) Bibliophagist
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 11–15) : In the following questions, out of (c) Bibliophoebe (d) Bibliographer
the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted 22. Speaking without preparation
for the given words/sentence. (a) Deliberate (b) Fluent
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2011) (c) Loquacious (d) Extempore
 102 One Word Substitution

23. Special trial of the Head of State by Parliament DIRECTIONS (Qs. 36 - 40) : In the following questions, out of
(a) Impingement (b) Infringement the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted
(c) Impeachment (d) Impediment for the given words / sentence.
24. Someone able to use both hands with equal skill (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012)
(a) Ambivalent (b) Amphibious 36. A round or cylindrical container used for storing things
(c) Ambiguous (d) Ambidextrous such as food, chemicals or rolls of film
25. Cure for all diseases (a) Tankard (b) Canister
(c) Vessel (d) Casket
(a) Curable (b) Panacea
37. A place of permanent residence
(c) Incurable (d) Curative (a) Abode (b) Dormitory
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 26-30) : In the following questions, out of (c) Domicile (d) Apartment
the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted 38. That cannot be altered or withdrawn
for the given words/sentence. (a) Irrevocable (b) Irretrievable
(c) Irrefutable (d) Irresistible
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012) 39. Money paid to employees on retirement
26. A raised place on which offerings to a God are made. (a) Gratuity (b) Gift
(a) Rostrum (b) Church (c) Pension (d) Arrears
40. A place where clothes are kept
(c) Altar (d) Mound (a) Locker (b) Drawer
27. Something that cannot be explained (c) Wardrobe (d) Cupboard
(a) Unthinkable (b) Impregnable
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 41-47) : In the following questions, out of the
(c) Mysterious (d) Inexplicable
four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for
28. A written declaration made on oath in the presence of a the given words/sentence.
magistrate
(a) Affidavit (b) Dossier (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
(c) Voucher (d) Document 41. Detailed plan of a journey :
29. A person who thinks only about himself’ and not about (a) Travelogue (b) Tavel kit
others’ needs: (c) Schedule (d) Itinerary
42. One who cannot be corrected :
(a) Egomaniacal (b) Egoistic
(a) Incurable (b) Incorrigible
(c) Egotistic (d) Egocentric
(c) Hardened (d) Invulnerable
30. A guide-post pointing out the way for a place 43. A general pardon granted by the Government to political
(a) Finger-post (b) Lamp-post offenders.
(c) Checkpost (d) Lastpost (a) Pardon (b) Excuse
(c) Honesty (d) Amnesty
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 31-35): In the following questions, out of
44. One who hates women:
the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted
(a) Misogynist (b) Misogamist
for the given words/sentence.
(c) Ambivert (d) Misanthrope
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012) 45. A person who consumes human flesh :
31. A group of three books, films etc. that have the same subject (a) Cannibal (b) Javage
or characters (c) Captor (d) Carnivore
(a) Trinity (b) Trilogy 46. A school boy who cuts classes frequently is a :
(c) Trio (d) Tripod (a) Defeatist (b) Sycophant
32. A study of the human race (c) Truant (d) Martlinet
(a) Anthropology (b) Archaeology 47. Stealing of ideas or writings of someone else.
(a) Autism (b) Scepticism
(c) Ethnology (d) Etymology
(c) Mesmerism (d) Plagiarism
33. An expert in an area of the fine or other arts
(a) Neophyte (b) Amateur DIRECTIONS (Qs. 48-54) : In the following questions, out of
(c) Connoisseur (d) Enthusiast the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted
34. The art of preserving skin of animals, birds, fishes for the given words/sentence.
(a) Topology (b) Taxonomy (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2013)
(c) Seismology (d) Taxidermy 48. One who is unaffected or indifferent to joy, pain, pleasure
35. Chanting of magic spells or grief
(a) Narration (b) Recitation (a) Tolerant (b) Resigned
(c) Incantation (d) Utterance (c) Passive (d) Stoic
One Word Substitution 103

49. A person who is greatly respected because of wisdom 63. Incapable of making errors
(a) Veracious (b) Vulnerable (a) Infallible (b) Incorrigible
(c) Venerable (d) Verger (c) Impervious (d) Inexplicable
50. An excessively morbid desire to steal. 64. Governed by a sense of duty
(a) Stealomania (b) Kleptomania (a) Conscious (b) Sensible
(c) Cleftomania (d) Keptomania (c) Intelligent (d) Conscientious
51. Prohibited by law or treaty from being imported or exported 65. The depository where state records and documents are
(a) Contraband (b) Smuggled preserved
(c) Counterfeit (d) Forged (a) Museum (b) Library
52. Intentional destruction of racial groups. (c) Emporium (d) Archive
(a) Regicide (b) Genocide 66. That which is no longer fashionable or in use
(c) Homicide (d) Fratricide (a) Unused (b) Ancient
53. A person in a vehicle or on horseback escorting another (c) Obsolete (d) Old
vehicle 67. Murder of a king
(a) Navigator (b) Escort (a) Homicide (b) Fratricide
(c) Outrider (d) Security (c) Regicide (d) Parricide
54. A person specially interested in the study of coins and 68. A place where birds are kept
medals. (a) Aviary (b) House
(a) Medallist (b) Coinist (c) Aquarium (d) Apiary
(c) Numismatist (d) Numerist DIRECTIONS (Qs. 69–75): In the following questions, out of
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 55-61) : In these questions, out of the four the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted
alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for the for the given words/sentence.
given words/sentence. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) 69. An apartment building in which each apartment is owned
separately by the people living in it, but also containing
55. A study of sounds is known as
shared areas.
(a) Semantics (b) Sylistics
(c) Linguistics (d) Phonetics (a) Condominium (b) Multiplex
56. To reduce to nothing (c) Duplex (d) Caravan
(a) Cull (b) Lull 70. A group of three powerful people.
(c) Null (d) Annul (a) Trio (b) Tritium
57. An obviously true or hackneyed statement (c) Trivet (d) Triumvirate
(a) Truism (b) Syllogism 71. Operation of the body after death.
(c) Iconic (d) Imagism (a) Post-mortem (b) Obituary
58. Words inscribed on a tomb (c) Homage (d) Mortuary
(a) Epilogue (b) Epitaph 72. Not allowing the passage of light.
(c) Epitome (d) Epistle (a) Oblique (b) Opaque
59. The act of producing beautiful handwriting using a brush (c) Optique (d) Opulant
or a special pen 73. Science regarding principles of classification.
(a) Hieroglyphics (b) Calligraphy (a) Taxidermy (b) Taxonomy
(c) Stencilling (d) Graphics (c) Toxicology (d) Classicology
60. A word composed of the first letters of the words in a 74. A political leader appealing to popular desires and prejudices
phrase. (a) Dictator (b) Tyrant
(a) Acronym (b) Abridgement (c) Popularist (d) Demagogue
(c) Almanac (d) Anachronism
75. Enclosed in a small closed space.
61. A person of obscure position who has gained wealth.
(a) Closophobia (b) Clusterophobia
(a) Extrabagant (b) Promiscuous
(c) Claustrophobia (d) Liftophobia
(c) Parvenu (d) Sumptuary
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 76-82): In the following questions, out of the
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 62-68) : In the following questions, out of the
four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for
four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for the given words/sentences.
the given words/sentence.
(SSC CGL 2014)
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) 76. Belief in many gods
62. That which has a double meaning (a) Pantheism (b) Monotheism
(a) Doubtless (b) Uncertain (c) Polytheism (d) Atheism
(c) Controversial (d) Ambiguous
 104 One Word Substitution

77. A cluster of flowers on a branch 91. One who runs away from justice or the law.
(a) Bouquet (b) Inflorescence (a) Fugitive (b) Thief
(c) Wreath (d) Incandescence (c) Criminal (d) Smuggler
78. A person who believes that only selfishness motivates 92. One who is skillful.
human actions
(a) Disciplined (b) Different
(a) Agnostic (b) Cynic
(c) Sceptic (d) Misogynist (c) Diligent (d) Dexterous
79. A highly skilled musician 93. One who is too careless to plan for the future.
(a) Artiste (b) Virtuoso (a) Impotent (b) Improvident
(c) Performer (d) Diva (c) Impractical (d) Imprudent
80. A method of boiling briefly to cook food slightly 94. A person who deserves all praise
(a) Steam (b) Bake
(a) Despicable (b) Detestable
(c) Saute (d) Parboil
81. The group, especially in the arts, regarded as being the (c) Laudable (d) Lovable
most experimental 95. One who has long experience
(a) Avant-garde (b) Iconoclast (a) Expert (b) Novice
(c) Revolutionary (d) Nerd (c) Practitioner (d) Veteran
82. One who helps people by giving them money or other aid 96. A study of ancient things.
(a) Benefactor (b) Beneficiary
(a) Physiology (b) Archaeology
(c) Tycoon (d) Patriot
(c) Ethnology (d) Zoology
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 83-89): In the following questions, out of the
four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for DIRECTIONS (Qs. 97-99): In the following questions, out of the
the given words/sentences. four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for
the given words/sentences.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015)
83. A recurrent compulsive urge to steal. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
(a) Pneumonia (b) Insomnia 97. An abattoir is _____ .
(c) Nymphomania (d) Kleptomania (a) a place where animals are slaughtered
84. Act of injuring another's reputation by any slanderous (b) a place where abbots stay
communication. (c) a title of respect given to a priest or abbot
(a) Orchestration (b) Aberration (d) a place where animals are worshipped
(c) Misrepresentation (d) Defamation 98. A man with abnormal habits
85. A story in which animals or objects speak and give (a) Eccentric
wholesome moral lesson. (b) Frantic
(a) Fable (b) Parable (c) Idiotic
(c) Allegory (d) Legend (d) Sulky
86. Medical Study of skin and its diseases. 99. Words inscribed on the tomb
(a) Dermatology (b) Endocrinology (a) Epigraph
(c) Gynaecology (d) Orthopaedics (b) Epigram
87. A process involving too much official formality. (c) Epitaph
(d) Elegy
(a) Diplomacy (b) Bureaucracy
(c) Red–tapism (d) Nepotism DIRECTIONS : (Qs. 100-102) : In the following questions, out
88. A person who enters without any invitation. of the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted
(a) Burglar (b) Intruder for the given words/sentences.
(c) Thief (d) Vandal
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
89. Not suitable for eating
100. The ceremony of crowning a sovereign
(a) Tasteless (b) Uneatable
(a) Felicitation (b) Promotion
(c) Inedible (d) Spicy (c) Coronation (d) Installation
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 90-96): In the following questions, out of the 101. One who tends to patronize, rebuff or ignore people
four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for regarded as social inferiors and imitate, admire people
the given words / sentences. regarded as social superiors
(a) Snob (b) Fob
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015)
(c) Dandy (d) Freak
90. Of one's own free will
102. A room where dead bodies are kept until burial
(a) Obligatory (b) Mandatory (a) Grave (b) Cemetery
(c) Voluntary (d) Compulsory (c) Mortuary (d) Pyre
One Word Substitution 105

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 103-105) : In the following questions, out of 114. One who offers his service of his own free will
the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted (a) Worker (b) Slave
for the given words/sentences and click the button corresponding (c) Volunteer (d) Servant
to it. 115. One who is always doubting
(a) Sceptic (b) Deist
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) (c) Rationalist (d) Positivist
103. A person's peculiar habit 116. A collection of slaves
(a) Trait (b) Idiosyncrasy (a) Coffle (b) Crew
(c) Idiolect (d) Talent (c) Company (d) Cortege
104. Speech delivered without preparation 117. A professional soldier hired to serve in a foreign army
(a) Rhetoric (b) Oration
(a) Mercenary (b) Liquidator
(c) Extempore (d) Maiden speech
(c) Venal (d) Hireling
105. One who will do any job for anyone for money
118. Not likely to be easily pleased
(a) Mercenary (b) Recruit
(a) Fastidious (b) Infallible
(c) Hoodlum (d) Merchant
(c) Fatalist (d) Communist
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 106-108) : In the following questions, out of
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 119-123) : In the following questions, out
the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted
of the four alternatives, choose the one which can be
for the given words/sentences.
substituted for the given words/sentence.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2013)
106. Action that is likely to make people very angry
119. A person who attends to the diseases of the eye is an
(a) Inflationary (b) Inflammable
(a) Oculist (b) Optimist
(c) Commensurable (d) Inflammatory
(c) Obstetrician (d) Optician
107. A humorous drawing dealing with current events or politics.
120. The study of worms and insects
(a) Sketch (b) Illustration
(a) Taxidermy (b) Entomology
(c) Cartoon (d) Skit
(c) Ornithology (d) Paleontology
108. Act of mercy killing
121. A person who devotes his/her life for the welfare of others
(a) Suicide (b) Euthanasia
(a) Altruist (b) Hermit
(c) Immolation (d) Asphyxiation
(c) Volunteer (d) Martyr
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 109-113): In the following question below, 122. A person who shows off his learning
out of the four alternatives, choose the one which can be (a) Pedant (b) Educationist
substituted for the given words/sentences. (c) Exhibitor (d) Researcher
123. Written law of a legislative body
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2015)
109. Walking in sleep : (a) Statute (b) Stature
(a) Sleepy-head (b) Somnolence (c) Static (d) Statue
(c) Somnambulism (d) Insomnia DIRECTIONS (Qs. 124-128) : In the following questions, out of
110. A person who leaves his own country in order to go and the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted
live in another : for the given words/sentence.
(a) Emigrant (b) Refugee
(c) Immigrant (d) Expatriate (SSC Sub. Ins. 2012)
111. Showing a dislike of anything improper : 124. An act or notion to look back in the past
(a) Crude (b) Prim (a) Retrospective (b) Postnatal
(c) Strict (d) Rude (c) Retrogressive (d) Primitive
112. That which cannot be avoided : 125. Medicine to counteract the effect of a poison
(a) Inevitable (b) Indifferent (a) Emetic (b) Antidote
(c) Inestimable (d) Infallible (c) Anti-venom (d) Antiseptic
113. Artistic, musical or dramatic interpretation : 126. A collection of poems
(a) Reparation (b) Report (a) Pathology (b) Anthology
(c) Imitation (d) Rendition (c) Oncology (d) Pedology
127. One who studies mankind
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 114-118) : In the following questions below, (a) Anthropologist (b) Physicist
out of the four alternatives, choose the one which can be (c) Pathologist (d) Philanthropist
substituted for the given words/sentences. 128. An opinion contrary to popular belief
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2014) (a) Paradox (b) Orthodoxy
(c) Hearsay (d) Heresy
 106 One Word Substitution

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 129 - 132) : In the following questions, out of DIRECTIONS (Qs. 141-144) : In the following questions, out of
the four alternatives choose the one which can be substituted for the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substitute for
the given sentences. the given words/sentences.
(SSC CHSL 2012) (SSC CHSL 2015)
129. Someone who scientifically studies the birds: 141. Art of working with metals.
(a) Earthologist (a) Metaphysics (b) Metallurgy
(b) Orthopeadic (c) Metalloid (d) Meteorite
(c) Orthodondist 142. A place where birds are kept
(d) Ornithologist (a) Aviary (b) Sanctuary
130. Something which is imagined to be real but actually does (c) Apiary (d) Aquarium
not exist. 143. A gathering at a religious place
(a) Figment (b) Insight (a) Spectators (b) Mob
(c) Mirage (d) Shadow (c) Audience (d) Congregation
131. Someone having many skills: 144. One who compiles a dictionary
(a) Versatile (b) Projectile (a) Cartographer (b) Bibliographer
(c) Cyclostyle (d) Anglophile (c) Lapidist (d) Lexicographer
132. To officially take private property away to seize.
(a) Offer (b) Confiscate DIRECTIONS (Qs. 145-148) : In the following questions, out of
the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted
(c) Annex (d) Hijack
for the given words/sentences.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 133-135) : In the following questions, out of (SSC CHSL 2015)
the four alternatives choose the one which can be substituted for 145. Submission to all that happens as inevitable.
the given words /sentence.
(a) Fatalism (b) Pragmatism
(SSC CHSL 2013) (c) Pessimism (d) Superstition
133. A former student of a school, college or university 146. A person who is easily deceived or tricked.
(a) Alumnus (b) Genius (a) Trickster (b) Trouble
(c) Scholar (d) Learner (c) Tangible (d) Gullible
134. A building in which aircraft are housed 147. Lasting for a very short time.
(a) Hangar (b) Granary (a) Friable (b) Ephemeral
(c) Dockyard (d) Garage (c) Metronomic (d) Eternal
135. A short story based on your personal experience 148. Rules governing socially acceptable behaviour.
(a) Parable (b) Legend (a) Etiquette (b) Politeness
(c) Anecdote (d) Fable (c) Formality (d) Behaviour
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 136-140) : In the following questions, out of DIRECTIONS (Qs. 149-153) : In the following questions, out of
the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted for
the given words/sentence. the given words / sentence.
(SSC CHSL 2014) (SSC Multitasking 2013)
136. A poem of fourteen lines. 149. One who is unable to pay one’s debt
(a) Ballad (b) Psalm (a) Borrower (b) Bankrupt
(c) Sonnet (d) Carol (c) Bank-roll (d) Extravagant
137. Incapable of error. 150. Instrument that magnifies objects
(a) Erroneous (b) Incorrigible
(a) Microscope (b) Periscope
(c) Unbeatable (d) Infallible
(c) Stethoscope (d) Telescope
138. One who believes everything he or she hears.
151. Animals which live in water
(a) Credulous (b) Credible
(a) Barren (b) Wild
(c) Creditable (d) Credential
(c) Domestic (d) Aquatic
139. An allowance made to a wife by her husband, when they are
legally separated. 152. The study of plant life
(a) Alimony (b) Parsimony (a) Geology (b) Zoology
(c) Matrimony (d) Honorarium (c) Botany (d) Geography
140. Wild imagination 153. Exclusive possession or control of anything
(a) Whim (b) Fantasy (a) Mono-mania (b) Monotheism
(c) Fancy (d) Memory (c) Monopoly (d) Monoism
One Word Substitution 107

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 154-158) : In the following questions, out of DIRECTIONS (Qs. 166 - 167) : In the following questions, out
the four alternatives, choose the one which can be substituted of the four alternatives, select the alternative which is the best
for the given words/ sentence. substitute of the phrase.
(SSC Multitasking 2014) (SSC CGL 2017, Set–2)
154. A place where money is coined 166. A funeral poem
(a) Press (b) Mint (a) Elegy (b) Pandemonium
(c) Parody (d) Sonnet
(c) Lair (d) Archive
167. One who walks in sleep
155. A series of lectures or lessons (a) Drover (b) Fastidious
(a) Catalogue (b) Panel (c) Numismatist (d) Somnambulist
(c) Course (d) Syllabus DIRECTIONS (Qs. 168 - 169) : In the following questions, out
156. A false name adopted by an author for writing of the four alternatives, select the alternative which is the best
(a) Nomenclature (b) Title substitute of the phrase.
(c) Nickname (d) Pseudonym (SSC CGL 2017, Set–3)
157. One who possesses many talents 168. A man devoid of kind feeling and sympathy.
(a) Gifted (b) Talented (a) Callous (b) Credulous
(c) Versatile (d) Exceptional (c) Gullible (d) Bohemian
158. A very accurate form of clock 169. One who eats two much
(a) Galvanometer (b) Calorimeter (a) Impostor (b) Glutton
(c) Voltameter (d) Chronometer (c) Hypochondriac (d) Intestate
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 159 -163) : In the following five questions, DIRECTIONS (Qs. 170 - 172) : In the following questions, out
out of the alternatives, choose the one which can substituted for of the four alternatives, select the alternative which is the best
the given words/sentences. substitute of the phrase.
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2016) (SSC CGL 2017, Set–4)
159. The belief that God is in everything, including nature. 170. Easily duped or fooled
(a) Bigot (b) Gullible
(a) Pantheism (b) Polytheism
(c) Ridicule (d) Venerable
(c) Mysticism (d) Naturalism
171. Atonement for one's sins
160. The study of growing garden plants
(a) Elite (b) Ignoramus
(a) Orchard (b) Horticulture (c) Incendiary (d) Repentance
(c) Nomenclature (d) Nursery
172. In the following questions, out of the four alternative, select
161. One who copies from other writers
(a) Antagonist (b) Plagiarist the alternative which is the best substitute of the phrase.
(c) Contender (d) Offender A person famous and respected within a particular sphere.
162. Scientific study of Earthquakes (SSC CHSL 2017)
(a) Geography (b) Seismology (a) Eminent (b) Obscure
(c) Anthropology (d) Actrology
(c) Despotic (d) Imperative
163. Gradually advanced
(a) Evoluted (b) Evolved DIRECTIONS (Qs. 173 - 177): Out of the four alternatives, choose
(c) Evaded (d) Advantaged the one which can most appropriately substitute the given
word(s) or sentence.
DIRECTIONS (Qs.164 - 165) : In the following questions, out (SSC MTS 2017)
of the four alternatives, select the alternative which is the best
173. The centre of attraction.
substitute of the phrase.
(a) Cynosure (b) Focus
(SSC CGL 2017, Set–1) (c) Custodian (d) Point
164. That which cannot be corrected 174. The murder of one's father.
(a) Impregnable (a) Patricide (b) homicide
(b) Immolation (c) fratricide (d) regicide
(c) Incorrigible
175. Overturn in water.
(d) Ineligible
(a) Drown (b) Swim
165. A person who is blamed for the wrong doings of others
(a) Bursar (c) Wreck (d) Capsize
(b) Captor 176. One whose wife is dead.
(c) Phlegmatic (a) Widower (b) Spinster
(d) Scapegoat (c) Bachelor (d) Widow
 108 One Word Substitution

177. That cannot be explained. (a) apiary (b) orchard

(a) Intolerable (b) Inexplicit (c) aquarium (d) aviary
(c) Irrevocable (d) Inexplicable 189. Select the word, which means the same as the group of words
given. (SSC Sub-Ins. 2018)
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 178 - 182): In the following question, out of
A place where coins are made
the four alternatives, select the alternative which is the best
(a) exchange (b) bank
substitute of the phrase.
(c) reserve (d) mint
(SSC Sub. Insp. 2017) 190. Select the word, which means the same as the group of words
178. Government by a few people given. (SSC Sub-Ins. 2018)
(a) Aristocracy (b) Oligarchy A person who compiles dictionaries
(c) Dictatorship (d) Bureaucracy (a) calligrapher (b) cartographer
179. The state of living unmarried (c) lexicographer (d) choreographer
(a) Celibacy (b) Neogamist 191. Select the word, which means the same as the group of words
(c) Chaperon (d) Implorer given. (SSC Sub-Ins. 2018)
180. An event which happens once in five years. A gigantic statue
(a) column (b) citadel
(a) Septennial (b) Quinquennial
(c) castle (d) colossus
(c) Interregnum (d) Pun
192. Select the word which means the same as the group of words
181. A person who looks after horses at an inn given.
(a) Matron (b) Chandler A young child just beginning to walk.
(c) Ostler (d) Effeminate (SSC MTS 2018)
182. To struggle helplessly (a) Toddler (b) Cub
(a) Implorer (b) Yokel (c) Joey (d) Kid
(c) Flounder (d) Chum 193. Select the word which means the same as the group of words
given.
183. Select the word which means the same as the group of words
Resistant to a particular infection
given.
(SSC MTS 2018)
The original inhabitants of a country (SSC CHSL 2018) (a) Innocent (b) Immune
(a) slaves (b) immigrants (c) Immortal (d) Innocuous
(c) aborigines (d) residents 194. Select the word, which means the same as the given group of
184. Select the word which means the same as the group of words words. (SSC CGL 2019-20)
given. Something that cannot be heard
One who treats skin diseases (SSC CHSL 2018) (a) infallible (b) audible
(a) dermatologist (b) radiologist (c) inaudible (d) irrevocable
(c) geologist (d) cardiologist 195. Select the word, which means the same as the groups of
185. Select the word which means the same as the group of words words given. (SSC CGL 2019-20)
given. A song sung at a burial
liable to break easily (SSC CGL 2018) (a) Sonnet (b) Ballad
(a) brittle (b) soft (c) Hymn (d) Dirge
(c) bent (d) thin 196. Choose the most appropriate word that can substitute the
given group of words.
186. Select the word which means the same as the group of words
given. One who pretends to be what he is not.
impossible to satisfy (SSC CGL 2018) (SSC MTS 2019-20)
(a) satisfactory (b) satisfiable (a) Director (b) Hypocrite
(c) contented (d) insatiable (c) Creator (d) Acrobat
187. Select the word, which means the same as the group of words 197. Choose the most appropriate word that can substitute the
given to shorten a piece of writing without losing the sense given group of words.
(SSC Sub-Ins. 2018) A place where nuns live and work.
(a) crop (b) allege (SSC MTS 2019-20)
(c) edit (d) abridge (a) Convent
188. Select the word, which means the same as the group of words (b) Dormitory
given. (c) Hostel
A place where bees are kept. (SSC Sub-Ins. 2018)
(d) Quarter
One Word Substitution 109

198. Select the word which means the same as the group of words Practising match sums in so many, periods over times is
given. better than in long periods at a time, for effective learning.
Having no moral principles (SSC CHSL 2019-20) (a) much (b) too much
(a) Mischievous (b) Unscrupulous (c) short (d) No substitution
208. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
(c) Ethical (d) Unaware underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
199. Select the word which means the same as the group of words need to substitute it, select, “No substitute”.
given. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
Using right and left hand equally well (SSC CHSL 2019-20) The situation in the city is now fully under control.
(a) Ambidextrous (b) Left-handed (a) beneath (b) No substitution
(c) Inexpert (d) Unskilled (c) beside (d) below
200. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute 209. Select the most appropriate word which means the same as
for the given group of words. the group of words given.
A person who is trained to travel in a spacecraft Extreme mental or physical suffering
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(SSC CGL 2020-21)
(a) ecstasy (b) acute (c) rapture (d) agony
(a) choreographer (b) Chauffeur 210. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the
(c) Anchor (d) Astronaut underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
201. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
for the given group of words. Because she didn’t love him, she had to marry him.
One who does not take any alcoholic drink (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(SSC CGL 2020-21) (a) Despite (b) No substitution required
(a) Perfectionist (b) Teetotaller (c) Since (d) Although
(c) Vegetarian (d) Astrologer 211. Select the most appropriate word which means the same as
202. Selected the option which means the same as the group of the group of words given.
words given. A place where games are played for money
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
A hunting weapon which comes back, used by Australian (a) church (b) casino
Aborigines. (SSC CHSL 2020-21) (c) university (d) gymnasium
(a) cutlass (b) slingshot 212. Select the most appropriate word which means the same as
(c) harpoon (d) boomerang the group of words given.
203. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute Be more successful than someone
for the given group of words. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(a) win (b) succeed (c) outdo (d) beat
Causing a strong dislike (SSC CHSL 2020-21) 213. Select the most appropriate word which means the same as
(a) Revealing (b) Redundant the group of words given.
(c) Repulsive (d) Hateful An exact or a very close copy (of something)
204. Select the word which means the same as the group of words (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
given. (SSC MTS 2020-21) (a) artificial (b) forgery (c) replica (d) substitute
A situation when no progress is possible 214. Select the most appropriate word which means the same as
the group of words given.
(a) Harmony (b) Acceptance
Something done because one wants to, not by force
(c) Deadline (d) Deadlock (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
205. Select the word which means the same as the group of words (a) coerced (b) voluntary
given. (SSC MTS 2020-21) (c) threatened (d) subjected
Be harmonious or consistent with 215. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute
(a) Record (b) Accord for the given group of words.
(c) Discord (d) Cordon Deliberately and maliciously set something (buildings
206. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the usually) on fire (SSC MTS 2021-22)
underlined segment in the given sentence. If no substitution (a) Agrarian (b) Arson
is required, select ‘No substitution’. (c) Ambush (d) Apex
You must be quite good accuinted with the terrain in this
216. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the
jungle. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(a) well acquianted (b) No substitution underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no
(c) better acquiants (d) best acquiant need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
207. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the The authorities are assured the people that they will look
underlined segment in the given sentence. If no substitute into the matter. (SSC CGL 2021-22)
is required, select ‘No substitution’. (a) has assured (b) have assured
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21) (c) have been assured (d) No substitution required
 110 One Word Substitution

217. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute One who does a thing for pleasure and not as a profession
for the given group of words. (a) Performer (b) Amateur
The study of earthquakes (SSC CGL 2021-22) (c) Professional (d) Ascetic
(a) Geology (b) Geography 224. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute
(c) Topography (d) Seismology for the given group of words. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
218. Select the most appropriate option to substitute the A place for storage of arms and ammunition
underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no (a) Wardrobe (b) Warehouse
need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required.’ (c) Granary (d) Arsenal
A tigress has given birth to a cub in the Ranthambore Tiger 225. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute
Reserve, taking the big cat population to 78. for the given group of words. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
Evoking a keen sense of sadness or regret
(SSC CGL 2021-22)
(a) Pungent (b) Poignant
(a) is given births (b) was birthed
(c) Impactful (d) Unaffecting
(c) has give birth (d) no substitution required
226. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute
219. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute
for the given group of words. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
for the given group of words. Profitable, yielding financial gain
To walk aimlessly (SSC CGL 2021-22) (a) Ludicrous (b) Lucrative
(a) Amble (b) Crawl (c) Luddite (d) Lugger
(c) Sprint (d) Slither 227. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute
220. The following sentence has been split into four segments. for the given group of words. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error. One who takes a dark view of things
During an earthquake, / it is advised to take / cover above (a) Pedant (b) Periscope
(c) Polyglot (d) Pessimist
a table / to save your life. (SSC CGL 2022)
228. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the
(a) cover above a table (b) During an earthquake, underlined segment in the given sentence.
(c) it is advised to take (d) to save your life. We want to divide the expenses between the three of us.
221. Select the most appropriate word segment for the underlined (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
word in the given sentence. (a) at (b) among
(c) from (d) for
Pintu has been advised to reduce smoking by his family
229. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute
doctor. (SSC CGL 2022) for the underlined group of words
(a) cut down (b) less down Geeta is doubtful about getting hired as she is inexperienced
(c) lower down (d) up down at this job. (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
222. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute (a) Professional (b) Expert
for the given group of words/phrase. (c) Ace (d) Novice
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2022) 230. Select the most appropriate 'one word' for the expression
Showing astute powers of judgement; clever and judicious given below. Study of human being & their ancestors
(a) Shriek (b) Shrift through time. (SSC CHSL 2023)
(c) Shrewd (d) Shrike (a) Anthropology (b) Physiology
223. Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute (c) Biology (d) Ethnology
for the given group of words. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
One Word Substitution 111

HINTS & EXPLANATIONS

1. (b) Deceit used in order to achieve one’s goal. 58. (b) 59. (b) 60. (a) 61. (c)
2. (b) Too extreme to be described in words. 62. (d) Ambiguous means having more than one possible
3. (b) A person who attacks or criticizes cherished beliefs or meaning.
instructions. 63. (a) If someone or something is infallible, that means they
4. (c) The state of being confined as a prisoner, especially are incapable of failure or error.
for political or military reasons. 64. (d) Conscientious is the one who is guided by or in
5. (c) The study of different people. accordance with conscience or sense of duty and right
and wrong.
6. (c) A stowaway is a person who secretly boards a ship or
vehicle to travel free. 65. (d) A collection of historical documents or records.
66. (c) Obsolete means no longer in use
7. (a) Circumstantial is a description of full details of a
particular scene. 67. (c) Regicide means the act of killing a king.
8. (a) Windfall refers to get a large amount unexpectedly. 68. (a) Aviary is a building where birds are kept.
9. (a) 10. (d) 69. (a) 70. (a) 71. (a) 72. (b) 73. (b)
74. (d) Demagogue refers to a political leader who seeks
11. (c) Sinecure is a position with no work but with financial
support by appealing to popular desires and prejudices
benefit.
rather than by using rational argument.
12. (b) Fatal
75. (c) 76. (c) 77. (b)
13. (a) 14. (c) 15. (a) 16. (c) 17. (b)
78. (b) A person who believes that only selfishness motivates
18. (a) 19. (b) 20. (a) 21. (a) 22. (d) human action-Cynic.
23. (c) 24. (d) 25. (b) 26. (c) 27. (d) 79. (b)
28. (a) 29. (d) 80. (d) A method of boiling briefly to cook food slightly.
30. (a) A post at a road junction from which signs project in 81. (a) 82. (a)
the direction of the place of route indicated. 83. (d) Kleptomania is a compulsion to steal having no relation
31. (b) 32. (a) 33. (c) 34. (d) to need or the monetary value of the object. Pneumonia
35. (c) The word Incantation means ; special words that are is a disease; insomnia is an inability to sleep; chronic
spoken or sung to have a magic effect. sleeplessness while nymphomania is an abnormally
36. (b) 37. (c) 38. (a) 39. (a) 40. (c) intense sexual desire in women.
41. (d) Itinerary is a detailed plan of a journey. 84. (d) Defamation is a false accusation of an offence or a
malicious misrepresentation of someone's words or
42. (b) Incorrigible is a person not able to be changed or actions.
reformed.
85. (a) Fable is a usually short narrative making an edifying or
43. (d) Amnesty is an official pardon for people who have cautionary point and often employing as characters
been convicted of political offences. animals that speak and act like humans.
44. (a) 45. (a) 86. (a) Dermatology is a branch of medicine that deals with
46. (c) Truant refers to a pupil who stays away from school the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders
without leave or explanation. of the skin.
47. (d) 48. (d) 87. (c) Red–tapism is the practice of requiring excessive
49. (c) Accorded a great deal of respect, especially because paperwork and tedious procedures before official
of age, wisdom or character. action can be considered or completed; also called red-
50. (b) A recurrent urge to steal. tapery or red-tapist.
51. (a) 52. (b) 53. (b) 88. (b) Intruder is someone who intrudes, especially into a
54. (c) Numismatics is the study of coins. building with criminal intent.
55. (d) 56. (c) 89. (c) Inedible is something that is not suitable for food or
57. (a) A statement that is obviously true and says nothing eating.
new or interesting.
 112 One Word Substitution

90. (c) Voluntary means of your own free will or design; done 122. (a) 123. (a) 124. (a) 125. (b) 126. (b)
by choice; not forced or compelled. 127. (a) 128. (d) 129. (d) 130. (a) 131. (a)
91. (a) Fugitive is one who is sought by law officers; someone 132. (b) 133. (a) 134. (a) 135. (c)
trying to elude justice. 136. (c) A sonnet is a short rhyming poem with 14 lines.
92. (d) Dexterous is the one who is skilful in physical
137. (d) "Fallible" means capable of making mistakes or easier
movements; especially of the hands.
to remember - capable of failing.Infallible means exactly
93. (b) Improvident means not provident; not providing for the opposite - incapable of failing.
the future. 138. (a) A credulous person is one who is willing to believe or trust
94. (c) Laudable means worthy of high praise. too readily, especially without proper or adequate evidence.
95. (d) An experienced person who has been through many 139. (a) Alimony is a legal obligation on a person to provide
battles; someone who has given long service is called financial support to his or her spouse before or after
a veteran. marital separation or divorce.
96. (b) The branch of anthropology that studies prehistoric 140. (b) Fantasy is the faculty or activity of imagining
people and their cultures through their material remains impossible or improbable things.
is called archaeology. 141. (b) ‘Metallurgy’ refers to the branch of science which
97. (a) Abattoir is a slaughter house. deals with the properties of metals and their
98. (a) 99. (c) 100. (c) production.
142. (a) An ‘aviary’ is a place where birds are kept.
101. (a) Snob is a person with an exaggerated respect for high
social position or wealth who seeks to associate with 143. (d) ‘Congregation’ refers to a group of people assembled
for religious worship.
social superiors and looks down on those regarded as
socially inferior. 144. (d) ‘Lexicographer’ is a person who compiles dictionaries.
102. (c) Mortuary is a room or building where dead bodies are 145. (a) Fatalism means acceptance of the belief that all events
are predetermined and inevitable.
kept until burial.
146. (d) Gullible means someone who can be easily deceived or
103. (b) Idiosyncrasy is a made of behaviour or way of thought duped
peculiar to an individual.
147. (b) Ephemeral means lasting for a very short time.
104. (c) 105. (a) 106. (d) 107. (c)
148. (a) Etiquette means the code of polite behaviour in society
108. (b) Euthanasia is the painless killing of a person known or among members of a particular group.
as mercy killing. 149. (b) Bankrupt means insolvent or penniless
109. (c) Somnambulism means sleepwalking. 150. (a) 151. (d) 152. (c) 153. (c)
110. (a) Emigrant means a person who leaves his own country 154. (b) Mint is a place where money is made, or an unlimited
in order to settle permanently in another. supply of wealth. In other words, it is a place where the
111. (b) Prim means feeling or showing disapproval of anything. coins of a country are manufactured by authority of
112. (a) Inevitable means something which is certain to happen. the government.
113. (d) Rendition means a performance or interpretation, 155. (a) Course means a list of contents at a university,
systematically arranged and often including
especially of a dramatic role or piece of music.
descriptive material such as lessons and lectures.
114. (c) A volunteer is a person who freely offers to take part in
156. (d) A pseudonym is a name that a person or group assumes
an enterprise and undertake a task. for a particular purpose, which differs from his or her
115. (a) Sceptic means a person inclined to question or doubt original or true name. Pseudonyms include stage
accepted opinions. names, screen names, ring names, pen names,
116. (a) Coffle means a line of slaves / animals fastened or driven nicknames, aliases, superhero identities and code
along together. names, gamer identifications.
117. (a) A mercenary is a hired professional soldier who fights 157. (c) A versatile person is one who is able to adapt or be
for any state or nation without regard to political adapted to many different functions or activities and is
multitalented and flexible.
principles.
158. (d) A chronometer is an instrument for measuring time
118. (a) Fastidious means difficult to please.
accurately in spite of motion or variations in
119. (a) An ophthalmologist or optician temperature, humidity and air pressure. It is a timepiece
120. (b) The branch of zoology concerned with study of insects. with a special mechanism for ensuring and adjusting
121. (a) A person with disinterested and selfless concern. its accuracy.
One Word Substitution 113

159. (a) 160. (b) 161. (b) 162. (b) 163. (a) uneducated and unsophisticated person from the
164. (c) An incorrigible person or incorrigible behaviour is bad countryside. Chum means a close friend.
and impossible to change or improve. 183. (c) ‘Slave’ is a person who is the legal property of another
165. (d) A scapegoat is a person or animal which takes on the and is forced to obey them. ‘Immigrants’ are those who
sins of others. come to live permanently in a foreign country.
166. (a) 'Elegy' is typically a lament for the dead. ‘Residents’ are people who live somewhere permanently
167. (d) 'Somnambulist' is a person who walks about in his or on a long-term basis. ‘Aborigines’ are those who
sleep. have been in a country or region from earliest times.
168. (a) A callous person or action is very cruel and shows no 184. (a) A Radiologist is a person who uses X-rays or other
concern for other people or their feelings. high-energy radiation, especially a doctor specializing
in radiology. A Geologist is an expert in or student of
169. (b) A glutton person eats and drinks excessively or
geology. A Cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in
voraciously.
the study or treatment of heart diseases and heart
170. (b) A gullible person can be easily persuaded to believe abnormalities.
something.
185. (a) Brittle means hard but liable to break easily.
171. (d) 'Repentance' is the activity of reviewing one's action
186. (d) Insatiable means 'impossible to satisfy'. Other words
and feeling regret for past wrongs.
are different in meaning.
172. (a) A person famous and respected within a particular
187. (d) Crop means to cut (something, especially a person's
sphere is known as ‘eminent’.
hair) very short or cut the edges of (a photograph) in
173. (a) Cynosure means centre of attraction. order to produce a better picture or to fit a given space.
174. (a) Patricide is the act of killing one’s father. Homicide (act Allege means to claim or assert that someone has done
of one human killing another); Fratricide (the killing of something illegal or wrong, typically without proof. Edit
one’s brother or sister.); Regicide (the action of killing a means to remove unnecessary or inappropriate material
king.). from a text, film, or radio or television programme.
175. (d) Capsize means be overturned in the water. 188. (a) Orchard is a piece of enclosed land planted with fruit
176. (a) Widower is a man whose wife is dead. Spinster means trees. Aquarium is a transparent tank of water in which
an unmarried woman and especially one past the com- fishes and other water creatures are kept. Aviary is a
mon age for marrying. Widow is a woman whose man is large cage, building, or enclousure for keeping birds in.
dead. Bachelor is an unmarried man/woman. 189. (d)
177. (d) Inexplicable is what cannot be explained. Intolerable 190. (c) Calligrapher is the one who is skilled at the art of
means unable to be endured. Inexplicit means not defi- producing beautiful writing. A cartographer is a person
nitely or clearly expressed or explained. Irrevocable who draws or produces maps. A choreographer is a
means not able to be changed, reversed, or recovered. person who composes the sequence of steps and moves
178. (b) An oligarchy is a government ruled by a small group of for a performance of dance.
powerful people. 191. (d)
179. (a) Celibacy is the state of abstaining from marriage and 192. (a) 'Toddler' is the correct option.
sexual relations. Neogamist is a newlywed; implorer 'Cub' is the young one of lion, fox, wolves and other
means to beg; chaperon is a person who accompanies carnivorous a mammals.
and looks after another person or group of people.
'Joey' is the young one of kangaroo or 'marsupials'
180. (b) Quinquennial is an event occurring or being done every
'Kid' is the infants or small child.
five years. Septennial is recurring in seven years.
Interregnum means the time during which a throne is 193. (b) Here, the word 'innocent' means 'not done wrong'
vacant between two successive reigns or regimes. Pun 'immortal' means 'never ending' and 'innocuous' means
is a joke exploiting the different possible meanings of a 'not harmful'
word or the fact that there are words which sound alike So, the option no. (b) (immune) is the correct word.
but have different meanings. 194. (c) Inaudible
181. (c) Ostler is a man employed to look after the horses of Infallible means without any mistake; certain to happen.
people staying at an inn. Matron is a woman in charge Irrevocable means not able to be changed, reversed, or
of domestic and medical arrangements at a boarding recovered; final.
school or other institution. Chandler is a dealer in 195. (d) Dirge
supplies and equipment for ships and boats. Effeminate Sonnet is a poem of 14 lines. Ballad means a poem or
means unmanly. song narrating a story in short stanzas. Hymn means a
182. (c) Flounder is to struggle with stumbling or plunging religious song or poem of praise to God or a god.
movements. Implorer means to beg, yokel means an Dirge means a lament for the dead, especially one
forming part of a funeral rite.
 114 One Word Substitution

196. (b) Hypocrite is someone who pretends to be what he is explore both the physical properties of Earth’s surface
not. and the human societies spread across it.
197. (a) Convent is a place where nuns live and work. Topography-the study of the forms and features of land
198. (b) Unscrupulous means having no moral principles. surfaces. The topography of an area could refer to the
199. (a) Ambidextrous means using right and left hand equally land forms and features themselves, or a description.
well. 218. (d) No substitution required.
200. (d) Astronaut-a person who is trained to travel in 219. (a) “amble” substitutes the given sentence most
spacecraft. appropriately;
201. (b) Teetotaller is someone who never drinks alcohol. Crawl- to move on one’s hands and knees.
202. (d) Boomerang is a curved flat piece of wood that can be Sprint- run at full speed over a short distance.
thrown so that it will return to the thrower. Traditionally Slither- move smoothly over a surface with a twisting
used by Australian Aboriginal people as a hunting or oscillating motion.
weapon. 220. (a) In the given sentence ‘above’ will be replaced by ‘under’.
203. (c) Revealing means-showing, redundant means-useless, 221. (a) cut down mean s –to reduce somethin g
repulsive means-arousing strong distaste and hateful Pintu has been advised to cut down smoking by his
means very unpleasant or filled with hate. Therefore, family doctor.
the answer is repulsive. 222. (c) It is the word ‘shrewd’ that means ‘having or showing
204. (d) Deadlock means-a situation, typically one involving sharp powers of judgement’.
opposing parties, in which no progress can be made. 223. (b) An amateur is a person who does an activity for the
205. (b) Accord means to be harmonious or consistent with. sake of pleasure. An amateur is not a professional.
206. (a) Its sound effective. 224. (d) The place where arms and ammunition are stored is
207. (c) The rest of the options don't make sense and there is a called arsenal. Wardrobe is used to keep the clothes
mention of 'long periods in the sentence', thus we in, warehouse is used to store goods and granary is
choose 'short' periods. used to store grains.
208. (b) No substitution is required. 225. (b) It is the word ‘poignant’ which means ‘evoking a keen
209. (d) Agony means extreme mental and physical suffering. sense of sadness or regret’.
210. (d) Because is used to explain or justify something. 226. (b) The meanings of all the words on the list are as follows:
Although is used to contradict a statement, that in Ludicrous- foolish and ridiculous; Lucrative-
spite of the fact. Here, the sentence says the she didn't producing great profit or yield; Luddite- a person who
love him, she had to marry him. Two contradictory
opposes new technology and new ways of working;
ideas are being stated and thus we use although.
Lugger- a small ship with multiple masts. Option (b) is
211. (b) Casino is a place where games are played for money.
212. (c) When you want to be more successful than others, the correct answer.
you want to outdo others. 227. (d) The meanings of all the words on the list are as follows:
213. ( c) Replica is an exact or a very close copy (of something). Pedant- an individual who is extremely concerned
214. (b) Coerced/threatened/ subjected all convey force. about details and rules; Periscope- an instrument that
Whereas, voluntary is by one's will/choice. enables one to observe walls, obstacles or corners;
215. (b) Arson is a criminal act of deliberately setting fire to Polyglot- a person who speaks multiple languages;
property. The apt One word substitution here will be Pessimist – a person with a negative outlook or the
Arson. Example: The cause of the fire has not yet been one who looks at the darker side of the things. Option
determined, but investigators suspect arson.
(d) is the right answer.
216. (b) “have assured” should replace the underlined part of the
228. (b) When we talk about more than two persons then we
sentence to make the sentence grammatically correct.
use ‘among’ in spite of between.
217. (d) “seismology” is the most appropriate substitute for
229. (d) Novice means an inexperienced person.
the given sentence.
230. (a) Anthropology is the study of human being and their
Geology-the study of the structure, evolution and
ancestors through time. Physiology is the science of
dynamics of the Earth and its natural mineral and
life. Ethnology is the scientific study and comparison
energy resources. Geology investigates the processes
of human races. Biology is a branch of science that
that have shaped the Earth through its 4500 million.
Geography-the study of places and the relationships deals with living organisms and their vital processes.
between people and their environments. Geographers
 CHAPTER
CHAPTER
Chapter
7 Spelling Test

(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2011)

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 1-5) : In the following questions, groups of 16. (a) qestalt (b) imbrolios
four words are given. In each group, one word is correctly spelt. (c) ampasse (d) recondite
Find the correctly spelt word. 17. (a) hindrance (b) corespondence
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2010) (c) insurence (d) assurence
1. (a) collaborate (b) comemorate 18. (a) adversery (b) adultary
(c) colate (d) choclate (c) advisory (d) arbitary
2. (a) circuiteous (b) clairvoyant 19. (a) rogeu (b) colleague
(c) chivelery (d) cavelcade (c) diluge (d) atege
3. (a) severety (b) sovereignity 20. (a) malignant (b) impertinant
(c) superiorty (d) serenity (c) independant (d) neglegent
4. (a) cummulative (b) comemmorative DIRECTIONS (Qs. 21-25) : In questions, there are four different
(c) accummulative (d) accommodative words out of which one is correctly spelt. Find the correctly
5. (a) benidiction (b) besmerch spelt word.
(c) beneficient (d) benevolence (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012)
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 6–10) : In the following questions, groups of 21. (a) pleintive (b) sustein
four words are given. In each group, one word is correctly spelt. (c) villain (d) alleince
Find the correctly spelt word. 22. (a) comissioner (b) commissionar
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2010) (c) commisioner (d) commissioner
6. (a) parapharnelia (b) parsimonious 23. (a) aprentice (b) advertise
(c) treatice (d) sencitive
(c) peccadilo (d) peadiatrics
24. (a) suprintendent (b) supirentendent
7. (a) measureable (b) manageable
(c) superintendent (d) superentendent
(c) marriagable (d) manoevrable
25. (a) symetry (b) symmitry
8. (a) tussel (b) tunnle (c) symatry (d) symmetry
(c) tumble (d) trable
9. (a) populus (b) pompuous DIRECTIONS (Qs. 26-30): In the following questions, four
(c) prelious (d) presumptuous words are given in each question, out of which only one word
10. (a) impromptue (b) illustrious is correctly spelt. Find the correctly spelt word.
(c) illusery (d) impetous (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012)
26. (a) digresion (b) digrestion
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 11–15) : In the following questions, groups
(c) digression (d) degression
of four words are given. In each group, one word is correctly 27. (a) presumpchous (b) presumtous
spelt. Find the correctly spelt word. (c) presumptuous (d) presomptous
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2011) 28. (a) equalibirium (b) equilibrium
11. (a) agnostik (b) accomplice (c) equilibriam (d) equilibirium
(c) advercity (d) acrimonous 29. (a) vaterinerian (b) veterinarian
12. (a) dysentery (b) momentery (c) vetarinerian (d) veterinerian
(c) cemetary (d) comentary 30. (a) marrytime (b) marytime
13. (a) ebulient (b) jubilant (c) maritime (d) meritime
(c) iminent (d) tolerent DIRECTIONS (Qs. 31-35) : In the following questions, four words
14. (a) malaign (b) arraign are given in each question, out of which only one word is
(c) asigne (d) degine correctly spelt. Find the correctly spelt word.
15. (a) harrassment (b) embarrasment
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012)
(c) fulfilment (d) denoument 31. (a) abracadebra (b) abracadebri
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 16-20): In the following questions, groups of four (c) abracadabra (d) abrakadabra
words are given. In each group, one word is correctly spelt. Find the 32. (a) apparrel (b) aparell
correctly spelt word and mark. (c) aparel (d) apparel
 116 Spelling Test

33. (a) refferee (b) referre DIRECTIONS (Qs. 50-51) : In these questions, four words are
(c) referre (d) referee given in each question, out of which only one word is correctly
34. (a) commissioner (b) comissioner spelt. Find the correctly spelt word.
(c) commissionar (d) comissionor (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
35. (a) etiquete (b) etiquette 50. (a) Busyness (b) Bussyness
(c) ettiquette (d) ettiquete
(c) Business (d) Bussiness
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 36-40) : In the following questions, four words 51. (a) Questionnaire (b) Questionnair
are given in each question, out of which only one word is (c) Questionaire (d) Questionnare
correctly spelt. Find the correctly spelt word .
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 52 & 53) : In the following questions, four
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012) words are given in each question, out of which only one word is
36. (a) garulous (b) garrulous correctly spelt.
(c) garullous (d) garrullous
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
37. (a) marquee (b) markue
(c) marquei (d) marquie 52. (a) milennium (b) millenium
38. (a) puissant (b) puiscant (c) milleneum (d) millennium
(c) puiscent (d) puissent 53. (a) ocassion (b) occassion
39. (a) disconncerting (b) disconserting (c) occasion (d) occation
(c) discuncerting (d) disconcerting DIRECTIONS (Qs. 54-55): Four words are given in each
40. (a) exilarate (b) exhilerate question, out of which only one word is correctly spelt. Find the
(c) exsilarate (d) exhilarate correctly spelt word.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 41-45) : There are four different words out of (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
which one is correctly spelt. Find the correctly spelt word. 54. (a) conivance (b) connivanse
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2012) (c) connivance (d) conivence
41. (a) pursuasive (b) persuasive 55. (a) maintennance (b) manteinance
(c) persuesive (d) persuasieve (c) maintenance (d) mentenance
42. (a) assendency (b) ascendency DIRECTIONS (Qs. 56-60) : In the following questions, four words
(c) ascendancy (d) ascendensy are given. In each group, out of which only one word is correctly
43. (a) anathema (b) annathema spelt. Find the correctly spelt word.
(c) anathemaa (d) anathima (SSC Sub. Ins. 2013)
44. (a) quaint (b) qauint 56. (a) rhythym (b) rhithim
(c) quiant (d) quaaint (c) rhythim (d) rhythm
45. (a) effervesent (b) efervescent 57. (a) indeganeous (b) indigenous
(c) effervescent (d) efferescent (c) indegenous (d) indigeneous
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 46- 47) : There are four words out of which 58. (a) saccarine (b) sacarine
one is correctly spelt. Find the correctly spelt word : (c) sachharine (d) saccharine
(SSC CHSL 2012) 59. (a) revolutionize (b) revoulutionize
46. (a) Manoeuvre (b) Manueover (c) revvolutionize (d) revollutionize
(c) Manuovere (d) Maneouvre 60. (a) disentry (b) dysentry
47. (a) Venerable (b) Vanerable (c) diesentry (d) dysentery
(c) Veneruble (d) Venarable DIRECTIONS (Qs. 61-62) : In the following questions, four
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 48-49) : In the following questions, four words words are given in each question, out of which only one word
are given in each question, out of which only one word is is correctly spelt. Find the correctly spelt word.
correctly spelt. Find the correctly spelt word. (SSC CHSL 2013)
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2013) 61. (a) Dysentary
48. The laboratories are _________ with high tech electronic (b) Dysantery
gadgets. (c) Dysentry
(a) equipped (b) equpped (d) Dysentery
(c) eqiuped (d) equepped 62. (a) Rejevanation (b) Rejuvenation
49. Software companies have ushered in _________ culture (c) Rejvenation (d) Rejuenation
along with advanced technology.
(a) foreing (b) foreegn DIRECTIONS (Qs. 63-68) : In the following questions, there are
(c) forigen (d) foreign four different words out of which one is correctly spelt. Find the
correctly spelt word.
(SSC MTS 2013)
Spelling Test 117

63. (a) exellence (b) excellence 81. (a) Millinar (b) Millenar
(c) excellencce (d) exillance (c) Miliner (d) Milliner
64. (a) grammar (b) grammer 82. (a) Privillage (b) Privilage
(c) gramer (d) gramar (c) Priviledge (d) Privilege
65. (a) ommited (b) ommitted 83. (a) Questionnaire (b) Questionnare
(c) omitted (d) omited (c) Questionnair (d) Questionneire
66. (a) calender (b) calandar 84. (a) Amoeba (b) Ameoba
(c) colendar (d) calendar (c) Amieba (d) Ameboa
67. (a) objectionable (b) objectioneble 85. (a) Annihilate (b) Annhillate
(c) objecktionable (d) objectionablle (c) Anihilate (d) Annihilet
68. (a) apollogy (b) appology 86. (a) Cammittee (b) Commitea
(c) apalogy (d) apology (c) Committee (d) Comittee
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 69-70): Four words are given in each DIRECTIONS (Qs. 87-91) : In questions below, four words are
question, out of which only one word is correctly spelt. Find the given in each question, out of which only one word is correctly
correctly spelt word and mark.
spelt, Find the correctly spelt word.
(SSC CGL 2014) (SSC Sub. Ins. 2015)
69. (a) Plebeian (b) Plibeian 87. (a) curiosity (b) quriocity
(c) Plebian (d) Plebiean
(c) curiousity (d) curioucity
70. (a) Suroundings (b) Surroundings
(c) Sarroundings (d) Surondings 88. (a) Intecedent (b) Antecedant
(c) Antecedent (d) Entecedent
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 71-75) : In questions below, four words are
89. (a) Symetry (b) Cemetery
given in each question, out of which only one word is correctly
(c) Cemetary (d) Cemetry
pelt. Find the correctly spelt word.
90. (a) naseating (b) maditation
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2014) (c) delibarate (d) aberrance
71. (a) Resillient (b) Parsuade
91. (a) ansestral (b) encestral
(c) Dubious (d) Depplete
(c) ansastral (d) ancestral
72. (a) Ineffectual (b) iniffectual
(c) Inefecttual (d) inefictual DIRECTIONS(Qs. 92-95) : In question below, four words are
73. (a) Massacer (b) Massecre given in each question, out of which only one word is correctly
(c) Masacre (d) Massacre spelt. find the correctly spelt word.
74. (a) Conciance (b) Consience (SSC CHSL 2015)
(c) Conscience (d) Connscience 92. (a) laboratorry (b) laboratery
75. (a) Nirvana (b) Nirvena (c) laborratory (d) laboratory
(c) Nirvanna (d) Nyrvana
93. (a) humein (b) humaen
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 76-80) : In questions below, four words are (c) humain (d) humane
given in each question, out of which only one word is correctly 94. (a) Equanamous (b) Ecuanemous
spelt. Find the correctly spelt word. (c) Ecuanimous (d) Equanimous
(SSC CHSL 2014) 95. (a) Pedestrian (b) Padestrian
76. (a) Mountainer (c) Pedistrian (d) Pedestrean
(b) Mountaineer
(c) Mounteener DIRECTIONS (Qs. 96-99) : In the following questions, four words
(d) Mountineer are given in each question, out of which only one word is
77. (a) Happened (b) Happenned correctly spelt. Find the correctly spelt word.
(c) Hapened (d) Hapenned (SSC CHSL 2015)
78. (a) Sentimantalist (b) Sentimentelist 96. (a) prediliction
(c) Sentimentalist (d) Santimentalist (b) predilection
79. (a) Laibertarian (b) Libertarian (c) predalection
(c) Liebertarian (d) Liberterian (d) pridilection
80. (a) Emphetic (b) Emphattic 97. (a) accumulate (b) acummulate
(c) Emphatick (d) Emphatic (c) accumullate (d) ecummulate
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 81-86) : In questions below, four words are 98. (a) restaurent (b) restuarant
given in each question, out of which only one word is correctly (c) resturent (d) restaurant
spell. Find the correct spell word. 99. (a) manoeuvre (b) manouvre
(SSC MTS 2014) (c) manuvere (d) manouevr
 118 Spelling Test

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 100-101): In the following Two Questions, DIRECTIONS (Qs. 113 - 114) : In the following questions, four
four words are given each question, out of which only one word words are given out of which one word is incorrectly spelt.
is correctly spelt. Find the correctly spelt word. Select the incorrectly spelt word.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015) (SSC CGL 2017, Set-1)
100. (a) Acquariam (b) Aquarium 113. (a) Conceive (b) Leisure
(c) Neice (d) Reign
(c) Acquerium (d) Aquarim
114. (a) Dictionory (b) Irrelevant
101. (a) Facsimile (b) Facsimilee
(c) Perishable (d) Tangible
(c) Fasimile (d) Fasimmile
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 115 - 116) : In the following questions, four
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 102-103) : Four words are given in each words are given out of which one word in incorrectly spelt.
question, out of which only one word is correctly spelt. Find the Select the incorrectly spelt words.
correctly spelt word and mark. (SSC CGL 2017, Set-2)
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015) 115. (a) Gaurantee (b) Itinerary
102. (a) DIFFUSSION (b) DEFFUSION (c) Magnificent (d) Writing
(c) DIFFUSION (d) DEFUSION 116. (a) Etiquete (b) Exquisite
103. (a) Circumlocation (b) Circumlocution (c) Restaurant (d) Scavenger
(c) Circmlocution (d) Circumlocutien DIRECTIONS (Qs. 117 - 118) : In the following questions, four
104. Four words are given, out of which only one word is spelt words are given out of which one word is incorrectly spelt. Find
correctly. Choose the correctly spelt word and click the button the incorrectly spelt word.
corresponding to it. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) (SSC CGL 2017, Set-3)
(a) Vivacious (b) Vivascious
(c) Vivasious (d) Vivacouse 117. (a) Forfeit (b) Gorilla
105. Four words are given, out of which only one word is spelt (c) Blissfull (d) Corrupt
correctly. Choose the correctly spelt word. 118. (a) Afforestation (b) Translusent
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) (c) Foreigner (d) Achievement
(a) Reconaissance (b) Recconaisance DIRECTIONS (Qs. 119 - 120) : In the following questions, four
(c) Reconnaissance (d) Reconnaisance words are given out of which one word is incorrectly spelt.
106. Four words are given, out of which only one word is spelt Select the incorrectly spelt word.
correctly. Choose the correctly spelt word and click the button
corresponding to it. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) (SSC CGL 2017, Set-4)
(a) ANTICEPTIC (b) ANTECEPTIC 119. (a) Usable (b) Defense
(c) ANTICEPTIQUE (d) ANTISEPTIC (c) Inventor (d) Annaul
107. Four words are given, out of which only one word is spelt 120. (a) Changeable (b) Inedible
correctly. Choose the correctly spelt word and click the button (c) Tracable (d) Valuable
corresponding to it. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) 121. Select the word with the correct spelling.
(a) Defianse (b) Defyance (SSC CHSL 2017)
(c) Difiance (d) Defiance (a) brooches (b) linoleam
(c) limekilne (d) cherubick
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 108-112): In the following Questions, four 122. Select the word with the correct spelling.(SSC CHSL 2017)
words are given in each question, out of which only one word is (a) lammented (b) scabbard
correctly spelt. Find the correctly spelt word. (c) ordenance (d) synaptick
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2016) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 123 – 127) : In the following question, four
108. (a) Dastitution (b) Divienation words are given out of which one word is incorrectly spelt.
(c) Dysfunction (d) Divarsion Select the incorrectly spelt word.
109. (a) Hillarious (b) Congrruous
(SSC Sub. Inspec. 2017)
(c) Audacious (d) Auspiscious
123. (a) adherent (b) aironaut
110. (a) Hyegienic (d) Hyigeinic
(c) adversary (d) admissible
(c) Hygeinic (d) Hygienic
124. (a) passenger (b) quarralled
111. (a) Conceilment (b) Confinment
(c) remittance (d) attendence
(c) Conteinment (d) Consignment
125. (a) beautisian (b) bilingual
112. (a) Surveillance
(b) barbarian (d) balloon
(b) Obeisence
126. (a) embarrassment (b) exasperation
(c) Perservarance
(c) emanicipation (d) fermentation
(d) Turbulance
127. (a) gorgeous (b) granduer
(c) gratuitous (d) glutton
Spelling Test 119

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 128 -133): Four words are given, out of which 146. Select the correctly spelt word (SSC CGL 2019-20)
only one word is correctly spelt. Find the correctly spelt word. (a) Humilliation (b) Bouquette
(c) Sarcasm (d) Retalaite
(SSC MTS 2017)
147. Choose the correctly spelt word. (SSC MTS 2019-20)
128. (a) hiar (b) hier
(a) Hotiness (b) Haughtyness
(c) heir (d) heirr
(c) Haughtiness (d) Hautiness
129. (a) milenium (b) millennium
148. Choose the correctly spelt. (SSC MTS 2019-20)
(c) milennium (d) millenium
(a) Gramar (b) Gramer
130. (a) hygene (b) higene
(c) Grammar (d) Grammer
(c) hygiene (d) higiene
149. Select the wrongly spelt word. (SSC CHSL 2019-20)
131. (a) government (b) governnment
(a) Judiciary (b) Virtual
(c) guvernment (d) goverrment
(c) Ambasador (d) Appreciate
132. (a) skeem (b) scheme 150. Select the wrongly spelt word. (SSC CHSL 2019-20)
(c) skeme (d) sceme (a) Resettlement (b) Embarassment
133. (a) sillabus (b) cyllabus (c) Announcement (d) Undergarment
(c) syllabus (d) sylabus 151. Select the INCORRECTY spelt word. (SSC CGL 2020-21)
134. Select the correctly spelt word. (SSC CHSL 2018) (a) Indolence (b) Inershia
(a) contrapsion (b) cunstruction (c) Idleness (d) Insolence
(c) controversy (d) controdiction 152. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word. (SSC CGL 2020-21)
135. Select the correctly spelt word. (SSC CHSL 2018) (a) Fiery (b) Scenic (c) Friend (d) Neice
(a) necassery (b) nesessary 153. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word. (SSC CHSL 2020-21)
(c) necessary (d) necessery (a) Tendansy (b) Haunted
136. Select the correctly spelt word. (SSC CGL 2018) (c) Terrible (d) Uprooted
(a) mentoin (b) mention 154. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word. (SSC CHSL 2020-21)
(c) mantion (d) mension
(a) roaster (b) rocket
137. Select the correctly spelt word. (SSC CGL 2018)
(c) rockiry (d) rogue
(a) sweatter (b) scissors
(c) clettering (d) teribble 155. Select the INCORRECTY spelt word.
138. Select the wrongly spelt word. (SSC Sub-Ins. 2018) (SSC MTS 2020-21)
(a) groom (b) groggy (a) Expel (b) Paralel
(c) gritty (d) groovey (c) Repel (d) Foretell
139. Select the wrongly spelt word. (SSC Sub-Ins. 2018) 156. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word.
(a) courtious (b) laborious (SSC MTS 2020-21)
(c) religious (d) mysterious (a) Responsibilities (b) Opportunities
140. Select the wrongly spelt word. (SSC Sub-Ins. 2018) (c) Journies (d) Capabilities
(a) blizzard (b) bitter 157. Select the wrongly spelt word. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(c) bizzare (d) bewitched (a) capacity (b) pupil
141. Select the wrongly spelt word. (SSC Sub-Ins. 2018) (c) ablity (d) teacher
(a) benevolent (b) beneath 158. Select the wrongly spelt word. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(c) benefitial (d) benign (a) umbrella (b) occurring
142. Select the wrongly spelt word. (SSC Sub-Ins. 2018)
(c) sediment (d) exprimant
(a) dribble (b) dreamy
159. Select the wrongly spelt word. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(c) drougth (d) dreadful
143. Select the correctly spelt word. (SSC MTS 2018) (a) optsion (b) difficult
(a) Independent (b) Independant (c) easier (d) supporting
(c) Indipendent (d) Indepindent 160. Select the wrongly spelt word.
144. Select the correctly spelt word. (SSC MTS 2018) (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(a) Definitly (b) Definitely (a) central (b) electric
(c) Definetely (d) Definately (c) irrigation (d) presure
145. Select the correctly spelt word. (SSC CGL 2019-20) 161. Select the wrongly spelt word.
(a) exhoust (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(b) exhibit (a) refrence (b) brakes
(c) exhail (c) solution (d) beaker
(d) exteract
 120 Spelling Test

162. Select the option that corrects the misspelt words in the The pyramids that you see in Egypt were built by the Pharoh
given sentence. (SSC MTS 2021-22) dynasties who ruled the ancient kingdom of Egypt for
I can't pitcure him figting or picking on anyone. thousands of years.
(a) I can't picture him fighting or picking on anyone. (a) Ensure (b) Pharoh
(b) I can't pitcure him fiting or piking on anyone. (c) Strategy (d) Fulfillment
(c) I can't pitcure him fighting or pekking on anyone. 171. Identify the INCORRECTLY spelt word in the given sentence.
(d) I can't pictre him fighting or pickning on anyone (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
163. Select the correctly spelt word. (SSC MTS 2021-22) The graduate students have discovered that they can
(a) Influnce (b) Influence address issues more effectually through letter writing
(c) Influance (d) Influennce campaignes and not through public demonstrations.
164. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word. (SSC CGL 2021-22) (a) address (b) discovered
(a) Tution (b) Circuit (c) campaignes (d) demonstrations
(c) Genuine (d) Manners 172. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word.
165. In the given sentence, one word may have been incorrectly (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
spelt. Select the correctly spelt word from the given (a) Laxuryous (b) Innocent
alternatives. If there is no error, select ‘No error’ as your (c) Zealous (d) Judicial
answer. 173. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word.
The erroneous information spread rapidly across the nation (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
and created a stir. (SSC CGL 2022) (a) Arguement (b) Performance
(a) erronous (b) No error
(c) Valuable (d) Secretary
(c) eronneous (d) errauneous
174. From among the words given in bold, select the
166. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word.
INCORRECTLY spelt word in the following sentence.
(SSC CGL 2022)
Small drops trickled down the red and yellow tassels of
(a) Finery (b) Hiest
cannopies and dampened the heads of little boys.
(c) Cringe (d) Defer
(SSC CHSL 2021-22)
167. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word.
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2022) (a) cannopies (b) tassels
(a) Vocifirous (b) Affliction (c) dampened (d) trickled
(c) Episcopal (d) Innocuous 175. Select the wrongly spelt word.
168. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word. (SSC CHSL 2023)
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2022) (a) Malleable
(a) Manipulate (b) Postulate (b) Nascent
(c) Stippulate (d) Calculate (c) Obsequious
169. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word. (d) Dissiminate
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2022) 176. Select the wrongly spelt word. (SSC CHSL 2023)
(a) Abcission (b) Abstruse (a) Invulnerable (b) Intrepid
(c) Incision (d) Abyssal (c) Litigation (d) Fortuous
170. Identify the INCORRECTLY spelt word in the given sentence.
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
Spelling Test 121

HINTS & EXPLANATIONS

1. (a) Correct spellings of other words are : commemorate, 40. (d) Exhilarate
collate and chocolate. 41. (b) Persuasive
2. (b) Correct spellings of other words are : circuitous, 42. (c) Ascendancy
chivalry and cavalcade. 43. (a) Anathema
3. (d) Correct spellings of other words are : severity, 44. (a) Quaint
sovereignty and superiority. 45. (c) Effervescent
4. (d) Correct spellings of other words are : cumulative, 46. (a) Manoeuvre
commemorative and accumulative. 47. (a) Venerable
5. (d) Correct spellings of other words are : benediction, 48. (a) Equipped
besmirch and beneficent. 49. (d) Foreign
6. (b) Correct spellings of other words are : paraphernalia, 50. (c) Business
peccadillo and paediatrics. 51. (a) Questionnaire
7. (b) Correct spellings of other words are : measurable, 52. (d) Millennium
marriageable and manoeuvrable. 53. (c) Occasion
8. (c) Correct spellings of other words are : tussle, tunnel 54. (c) Connivance
and treble. 55. (c) Maintenance
9. (d) Correct spellings of other words are : populous, 56. (d) Rhythm = a strong regular repeated pattern of sounds
pompous and perilous. or movements.
10. (b) Correct spellings of other words are : impromptu, 57. (b) Indigenous = native ; belonging to a particular place.
illusory and impetus. 58. (d) Saccharine = sentimental
11. (b) accomplice (agnostic, adversity, acrimonious). 59. (a) Revolutionize = to completely change the way that
12. (a) dysentery (cemetery, momentary, commentary). something is done.
13. (b) jubilant (ebullient, imminent, tolerant). 60. (d) Dysentery = an infection of the bowels that causes
14. (b) arraign (malign; assign; design). severe diarrhoea with loss of blood.
15. (c) fulfilment (harassment; embarrassment; denouement). 61. (d) Dysentery
16. (d) recondite (imbroglios, impasse, gestalt) 62. (b) Rejuvenation
17. (a) hindrance (correspondence, insurance, assurance) 63. (b) Excellence
18. (c) advisory (adversary, adultery, arbitrary) 64. (a) Grammar
19. (b) colleague (rogue, dialogue, allege) 65. (c) Omitted
20. (a) malignant (impertinent, independent, negligent). 66. (d) Calendar
21. (c) The correct spelling of other words are: plaintive, 67. (a) Objectionable
sustain and alliance. 68. (d) Apology
22. (d) Commissioner. 69. (a) Among the four options, 'plebeian' is the correctly spelt
23. (b) The correct spelling of other words are: apprentice, word.
treatise and sensitive. 70. (b) Among the four options, 'surroundings' is the correctly
24. (c) Superintendent spelt word.
25. (d) Symmetry 71. (c) Dubious is the correctly spelt word. Correct spelling
26. (c) Digression of other words are: Resilient, Persuade and Deplete.
27. (c) Presumptuous 72. (a) Ineffectual
28. (b) Equilibrium
73. (d) Massacre
29. (b) Veterinarian
74. (c) Conscience
30. (c) Maritime
75. (a) Nirvana
31. (c) Abracadabra
76. (b) Mountaineer
32. (d) Apparel
77. (a) Happened
33. (d) Referee
78. (c) Sentimentalist
34. (a) Commissioner
79. (b) Libertarian
35. (b) Etiquette
80. (d) Emphatic
36. (b) Garrulous
81. (d) Milliner
37. (a) Marquee
82. (d) Privilege
38. (a) Puissant
39. (d) Disconcerting 83. (a) Questionnaire
84. (a) Amoeba
 122 Spelling Test

85. (a) Annihilate 124. (d) Attendence is the incorrectly spelt word. The correct
86. (c) Committee spelling is attendance.
87. (a) Curiosity 125. (a) Beautisian is the incorrectly spelt word. The correct
88. (c) Antecedent spelling is beautician.
89. (b) Cemetery 126. (c) Emanicipation is the incorrectly spelt word. The correct
90. (d) Aberrance is the correctly spelt word. The spelling of spelling is emancipation.
other words are: Nauseating, Meditation and 127. (b) Granduer is the incorrectly spelt word. The correct
Deliberate. spelling is grandeur.
91. (d) Ancestral
128. (c) Heir
92. (d) Laboratory
129. (b) Millennium
93. (d) Humane
130. (c) Hygiene
94. (d) Equanimous
95. (a) Pedestrian 131. (a) Government
96. (b) Predilection 132. (b) Scheme
97. (a) Accumulate 133. (c) Syllabus
98. (d) Restaurant 134. (c) The correct spelling of other words will be contraption,
99. (a) Manoeuvre here, the word 'controversy' is correctly spelt construction
100. (b) Aquarium and contradiction.
101. (a) Facsimile 135. (c) Necessary
102. (c) Diffusion 136. (b) The correct spelt word is 'mention'. All other words
103. (b) Circumlocution are wrongly spelt.
104. (a) Vivacious 137. (b) The correctly spelt word is 'scissors'; all other words
105. (c) Reconnaissance have some error or the other.
106. (d) Antiseptic 138. (d) The correct spelling will be 'Groovy'.
107. (d) Defiance 139. (a) The correct spelling will be 'Courteous'.
108. (c) Dysfunction is the correctly spelt word. The correct 140. (c) The correct spelling will be 'Bizarre'.
spelling of other words are: Destitution, Divination 141. (c) The correct spelling will be 'Beneficial'.
and Diversion. 142. (c) The correct spelling will be 'Drought'.
109. (c) Audacious is the correctly spelt word. The correct 143. (a) 'Independent' is the correctly spelt word.
spelling of other words are: Hilarious, Congruous and 144. (a) 'Definitely' is the correctly spelt word.
Auspicious. 145. (b) Exhaust, exhibit, exhale, extract
110. (d) Hygienic 146. (c) Sarcasm
111. (d) Consignment is the correctly spelt word. The correct Correctly spelt words are: humiliation, bouquet,
spelling of other words are: Concealment, Confinement retaliate
and Containment. 147. (c) Haughtiness is the correct spelling.
112. (a) Surveillance is the correctly spelt word. The correct 148. (c) Grammar is the correct spelling.
spelling of other words are: Turbulence, Perseverance 149. (c) The correct spelling is ambassador.
and Obeisance. 150. (b) The correct spelling is embarrassment.
113. (c) Niece 151. (b) Inertia is the correct spelling of the wrongly spelt
114. (a) Dictionary Inershia.
115. (a) Guarantee
116. (a) Etiquette 152. (d) Neice is incorrectly spelt. The correct spelling is niece.
117. (c) Blissful 153. (a) It is spelt as tendency and not tendansy
118. (b) Translucent 154. (c) It is spelt correctly as rockery and not rockery.
119. (d) Annual 155. (b) Paralel is wrongly spelt and the correct spelling is
120. (c) Trackable parallel.
121. (a)
156. (c) Journies is incorrectly spelt. Journeys is the correct
122. (b) ‘Scabbard’ is the only correctly spelt word.
spelling.
Correct spellings of other words are as follows:
157. (c) the ablity is rightly spelt as ability.
Lammented ® Lamented
158. (d) Exprimant is wrongly spelt. The correct spelling is
Ordenance ® Ordinance
experiment.
Synaptick ® Synaptic
159. (a) Optsion is wrongly spelt, it should be option.
123. (b) Aironaut is incorrect spelling. The correct spelling is
160. (d) pressure is wrongly spelt, it should be pressure.
aeronaut.
161. (a) refrence is wrongly spelt as it should be reference.
Spelling Test 123

162. (a)
Fighting is the correct spelling. 172. (a) Luxurious is the correct spelling. Only option (a) is
163. (b)
Correctly spelled word: Influence. incorrectly spelt.
164. (a)
correct spellings- TUITION 173. (a) Correct spelling will be: Argument.
165. (b)
No error 174. (a) Correct spelling: Canopies
166. (b)
‘Hiest’ is wrongly spelt, it should be ‘Heist’. 175. (d) Disseminate means To spread information, knowledge,
167. (a)
Option (1) is spelt incorrectly. The correct spelling of ideas, etc. so that it reaches as many people as possible.
the word is ‘Vociferous’. Obsequious means making a great effort to please or
168. (c) Option (3) is spelt incorrectly. The correct spelling of agree with somebody, especially somebody who is
the word is ‘Stipulate’. important and powerful. Nascent implies not yet
169. (a) Option (1) is spelt incorrectly. The correct spelling of completely developed.
the word is ‘abscission’. 176. (d) Fortuitous means happening by chance rather than
170. (b) Option (2) has the incorrectly spelt word. The correct intention.
spelling of the word is ‘Pharaoh’ which means an Invulnerable - impossible to harm or damage.
Egyptian king. Litigation means the process of taking legal action in
171. (c) Option (3) is incorrectly spelled. The correct spelling a court of law.
of the word is ‘campaigns’.
 124 Parajumbles

8
8
Chapter
Parajumbles

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 1-5) : In the following questions, the 1st and P. The man who has achieved much evenness of temper
the last sentences of the passage are numbered 1 and 6. The rest will be serene, because his mere thoughts are changed
of the passage is split into four parts and named P, Q, R and S. with the strength of action.
These four parts are not given in their proper order. Read the Q. He would practise yoga. i.e., evenness of temper, and
cannot but perform action.
sentence and find out which of the four combinations is correct.
R. The root of the matter is that one should not allow his
Then find the correct answer.
mind to fit from object to desire to another and from that
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2010) to a third.
1. 1. Education in India had a glorious beginning. S. But he who abstains from action altogether is only an
P. But after the British rule, it faced many changes. idler.
Q. It went on for centuries with the same glory. 6. A yogi is one who is not at teached to his objects of
R. English as the medium of instruction had a very great sense or to action and whose mind has ceased to roam
response. restlessly.
S. One of the changes was the introduction of English as (a) SRQP (b) RQPS
the medium of instruction. (c) QRSP (d) PRSQ
6. As the Britishers left we had a complexity of opinions 5. 1. This was an important day for Alattook.
regarding English P. It was a cold day, but Alatook would be warm.
(a) PQRS (b) QPSR Q. For the first time he was going to hunt seals alone.
(c) PQSR (d) SRPQ R. First he put on his fur-lined jacket.
2. 1. It is easy to criticize the people at the helm, for the slow S. Then he put on mittens and boots of deerskin to protect
progress in every field. his hands and feet from the cold.
P. We are well aware that the intellectuals are leaving our 6. Finally he picked up the gun he had cleaned so carefully
country for better employment opportunities. the day before.
Q. Then question remains unanswered because our (a) PQRS (b) QPRS
country cannot show opportunities to the intellectuals. (c) PRSQ (d) QRPS
R. Then, what about their obligation to the Motherland? DIRECTIONS (Qs. 6-10) : In the following questions, the 1st
S. First, we should ask ourselves as to what is happening
and the last sentences of the passage are numbered 1 and 6. The
to the young intellectuals in India.
rest of the passage is split into four parts and named P, Q, R and
6. This situation of 'Brain-Drain' leads to a variety of
problems. S. These four parts are not given in their proper order. Read the
(a) PSQR (b) RPSQ sentence and find out which of the four combinations is correct.
(c) PSRQ (d) SPRQ Then find the correct answer.
3. 1. It is the responsibility of parents to teach the young (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2010)
moral values in life. 6. 1. The most vulnerable section of the society are the
P. Many children take advantage of their parents busy
students.
schedule.
Q. This result in children's ignorane of social values. P. Revolutionary and new fledged ideas have a great
R. The reason behind it is that parents are quite busy appeal to them.
nowadays. Q. Agitations may be non-violent methods of protest.
S. Nowadays parents spend very meagre time with R. They cannot resist the charm of persuasion.
children. S. They are to be taught that without discipline they cannot
6. As such, the society is going away from the value get proper education.
system. 6. However if these become violent, the antisocial
(a) SRPQ (b) PQRS elements get encouraged and they put all proper
(c) SQRP (d) SPQR working out of gear.
4. 1. The man who does his duty without any selfish desire (a) PRSQ (b) RSQP
for fruit may be called a sanyasi as well as yogi. (c) SRPQ (d) RPQS
Parajumbles 125

7. 1. Venice is a strange city. four parts and named P, Q, R and S. These four parts are not
P. There are about 400 odd bridges connecting the islands given in their proper order. Read the passage/sentence and find
of Venice. out which of the four combinations is correct. Then find the
Q. There are no motor cars, no horses and no buses there. correct answer.
R. These small islands are close to one another. (SSC CHSL 2013)
S. It is not one island but a hundred islands. 11. 1. There are a lot of ways to communicate : speaking,
6. This is because Venice has no streets.
singing, clapping, hooting.
(a) SRPQ (b) PSRQ
P. Even animals communicate with one another.
(c) RQPS (d) QSRP
Q. Only humans can express their thoughts and feelings
8. 1. One of the most terrible battles of the American Civil
in words because of our superior brain.
War was fought in July 1863, at Gettysburg.
P. The chief speech on that occasion was given by Edward R. Both humans and animals also communicate through
Everett, a celebrated orator. body language.
Q. Lincoln was asked to make a few remarks. S. But their ways differ from the humans.
R. In November of that year a portion of the battlefield 6. Sometimes we don’t use words but make gestures (like
was dedicated as a final resting place for men of both traffic signs) or simple movements of the hand in order
armies who died there. to communicate.
S. Everett's speech lasted 2 hours. Lincoln's for 2 minutes; (a) PRSQ (b) QPRS
it was over almost before the crowd realized that it had (c) PQRS (d) PSQR
begun. 12. 1. Fires in the Steppes or bushes scared humans earlier.
6. But the Gettysburg speech is now one of the world's
P. Gradually, they learnt to appreciate the power of fire.
immortal pieces of literature.
Q. It gave them light and warmth and kept away wild
(a) SQRP (b) RPQS
(c) PQRS (d) QPSR animals.
9. 1. The teacher training agency in England hopes to make R. About 700,000 years ago, humans started fire
teaching one of the top three professions. accidentally by lightning.
P. They have also demanded that the campaign should be S. They could harden the tips of wooden spears and cook
matched by improved pay scales, work load and morale meat in it.
so as to avoid recruitment problems with an aim to raise 6. Soon they learnt to produce fire by striking flintstone
the image of the teaching profession. and pyrite with each other or by rubbing lumbers.
Q. A series of advertisements are now being screened (a) QSPR (b) PQSR
showing famous people speaking about teachers they (c) PQRS (d) QRSP
remember and admire.
13. 1. When the Impressionists
R. An amount of $100 million has been set aside to combat
P. they made them look like
the shortage of applicants for teacher training.
S. Teacher Unions have welcomed this campaign. Q. everyday and often putting
6. It is high time for the Indian Government also to think R people you would see
on similar lines and take steps to lift up the sinking S. painted pictures of people
morale of the teaching profession. 6. more emphasis on the scene.
(a) QRPS (b) RPSQ (a) RQPS (b) SRQP
(c) RQSP (d) QPSR (c) PRQS (d) SPRQ
10. 1. Some say that failure is like toxic waste. 14. 1. Sherlock Holmes is the
P. I see failure more as a fertilizer.
P. who is in a state of grace
Q. Thinking about it pollutes and undermines the attitudes
needed for success. Q. is raised to the status
R. The seeds of success must be planted afresh. R. because in him scientific curiosity
S. It can be used to enrich the soil of your mind. S. exceptional individual
6. Turning failure into a fertilizer is accomplished by using 6. of a heroic passion.
your errors as steps in learning. (a) PRQS (b) SRQP
(a) SRQP (b) PQSR (c) SPRQ (d) RPSQ
(c) SPQR (d) QPSR 15. 1. The goals of our present system
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 11-16) : In the following questions, the 1st P. schooling is to prepare
and the last sentences/parts of the passage / sentence are Q. students for the examination system
numbered 1 and 6. The rest of the passage / sentence is split into R. which will take them to the
 126 Parajumbles

S. of primary and secondary 6. to capture their victims

6. best technical institutions in the country (a) QPRS (b) PRSQ
(a) SPQR (b) QPRS (c) SRQP (d) SQPR
(c) PRQS (d) PSQR DIRECTIONS (Qs. 21-24) : In the following questions, the 1st
16. 1. Egotism is the; most common fault of mankind. and the last part of the sentence are numbered 1 and 6. The rest
P. However, with time it becomes an exaggerated form of of the sentence is split is into four parts and named P, Q, R & S.
self display. These four parts are not given in their proper order. Read the
Q. It is the product of a perfectly natural desire to display sentence and find out which of the four combinations is correct.
oneself. Then find the correct answer and indicate it in the Answer
R. This is necessary as it impairs the personality and Sheet. (SSC CHSL 2015)
frustrates all efforts at self improvement. 21. 1. Everyone
S. Beyond any shadow of doubt, it is a defect that ought P. the case calmly
to be constantly hunted down, and scotched. Q. acknowledges
6. One should always be on guard not to give into egotism. R. who knows you
(a) RSPQ (b) PSRQ S. when he considers
(c) PQRS (d) QPSR 6. that you have been wronged.
(a) PSQR (b) QRSP
DIRECTONS (Qs. 17-20) : In the following questions, the first (c) SRPQ (d) RQSP
and the last part of sentence are numbered 1 and 6. The rest of 22. 1. It is those good works
the sentence is split into four parts and named P, Q, R and S. P. that lead to peak performance
These four parts are not given in their proper order. Read the Q. which we do with passion
sentence and find out which of the four combinations is correct. R. our understanding of our purpose
Then find the correct answer. (SSC CHSL 2015) S. and which come to reflect
6. in this life.
17. 1. The watchman (a) PRQS (b) QPSR
P. and found two thieves (c) QSRP (d) SRQP
Q. woke up when 23. 1. I am a self confessed technophobe.
R. with black masks P. I believe that computer is responsible for the dying of
S. he heard the dog barking the art of conversation.
6. trying to get in Q. I have come to hate technology and the way it dominates
(a) QSRP (b) PQRS every aspect of life.
(c) QSPR (d) SPQR R. For many, it has become the most important object both
18. 1. The student in home and at the workplace.
P. touched the S. One of the worst offenders is the computer.
Q. arrived and 6. Small wonder then, that I have managed to keep this
R. their teacher ubiquitous machine out of my home.
(a) PQRS (b) QSRP
S. feet of
(c) RPSQ (d) SRPQ
6. with reverence
24. 1. Moisturisers for the face
(a) RQSP (b) QPSR
P. as oily ones may block
(c) QPRS (d) QRSP Q. in greater concentration on the face
19. 1. This summer was the most R. the oil glands found
P. to believe that next S. should be chosen carefully.
Q. and we have reason 6. and cause pimple/acne to break out.
R. scorching in living memory (a) SRPQ (b) SQPR
S. year and the year after (c) SPRQ (d) SPQR
6. will be hotter still
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 25-29) : In the following Five Questions, the
(a) SRPQ (b) SPQR
1st and the last part of the sentence / passage are numbered 1
(c) QSPR (d) RQPS
and 6. The rest of the sentence / passage is split into four parts
20. 1. Falcons have sharp angular wings
and named P, Q, R and S. These four parts are not given in their
P. to dive sharply
proper order. Read the sentence /passage and find out which of
Q. and allow them the four combinations is correct and indicate it.
R. to chase their prey
S. that give them the speed (SSC Steno. 2016)
Parajumbles 127

25. 1. These 31. P - According to various estimates between 1942 and 1944
P. about the heavenly there were approximately 400 victims of this practice daily in
Q. experiments by the scientists Warsaw alone, with numbers on some days reaching several
R. with amazing knowledge thousands.
S. will supply us Q - A common German practice in occupied Poland was to
6. bodies. roundup random civilians on the streets of Polish cities.
(a) PSQR (b) PSRQ R - For example, on 19th September 1942 close to 3000 men
(c) QSRP (d) RQPS and women were transported by train to Germany - they
26. 1. Over 67 years had been caught in the massive round - ups all over Warsaw
P. but the problems the previous two days.
Q. have remained S - The term, "lapanka" carried a sardonic connotation from
R. have passed the word's earlier use for the children's game known in
S. of the common man English as "tag".
6. as daunting as ever. (a) SQRP (b) SRPQ
(a) SRQP (b) QSPR (c) QSPR (d) QPRS
(c) QPRS (d) RPSQ
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 32 – 33) : The questions below consist of a
27. 1. The President set of labelled sentences. These sentences, when properly
P. from Tokyo sequenced form a coherent paragraph. Select the most logical
Q. where he order of sentences from among the options.
R. had been meeting
S. came back (SSC CGL 2017, Set-2)
6. other world leaders. 32. P – But he did not know how to find one at that hour.
(a) QSPR (b) SPQR Q – It was his first visit to the city and he didn't know where
(c) PSQR (d) RPQS to go.
28. 1. Man' s R – Mohanlal's train was late and it reached Kolkata a little
after midnight.
P. in the modern
S – He thought he would go to a choultry where he would
Q. insatiable thirst for knowledge
not have to pay rent.
R. the wonderful achievements of science
(a) PSQR (b) QRSP
S. is at the root of
(c) RQSP (d) RSQP
6. world. 33. P – And slowly, you reach the pinnacle of self - awareness,
(a) QSRP (b) PQRS experiencing a unity with all life.
(c) SQPR (d) RSPQ Q – If you transform your energy positively, it naturally
29. 1. Today becomes compassion and love.
P. by the hunters for their R – Once you experientially are a part of everything then
Q. are trapped or killed nobody needs to teach you morality.
R. millions of wild animals S – Then you can do something to improve the situation,
S. each year but without anger.
6. skin. (a) PQRS (b) QPRS
(a) SPRQ (b) RQSP (c) RQPS (d) RSPQ
(c) QPRS (d) PSQR DIRECTIONS (Qs. 34 – 35) : The questions below consists of a
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 30 – 31) : The questions below consist of a set set of labelled sentences. Out of the four options given, select
of labelled sentences. Out of the four options given, select the the most logical order of the sentences to form a coherent
most logical order of the sentences to form a coherent paragraph. paragraph.
(SSC CGL 2017, Set-1) (SSC CGL 2017)
30. P - It had been umpteen years since we had seen each other. 34. P – The aim must be to ensure that our country does not
Q - One dull dark in autumn, I was travelling on horseback experience either paucity or a-surfeit of trained manpower
through a dreary stretch of countryside. in any specific segment of our economy.
R - This was the house of Roderick Usher, who had been my Q – When we set about the task of higher education, we
childhood pal. should be absolutely clear in our perception of the goals of
S - At night fall, I came in sight of the house of Usher. education in the specific context of our n ation's
(a) PQSR (b) PSQR development.
(c) QSRP (d) QRSP
 128 Parajumbles

R – No doubt, one of the important aims of education would 39. Rearrange the parts of the sentence in correct order.
be to create the required range and nature of trained So, increasingly,
manpower assessed to be needed by different sectors of P-paying to provide revenues
national growth. Q-for the Central government
S – The entire educational apparatus must be geared R-the poor have been
progressively to fulfill the requirements of different phases (a) RPQ (b) RQP
of our growth in every sector primary, secondary and tertiary. (c) PQR (d) QPR
(a) SQPR (b) QRSP
(c) SRQP (d) PSQR DIRECTIONS (Qs. 40 – 44): The question below consists of a
35. P – Bureaucratic cultures can smother those who want to set of labelled sentences. Out of the four options given, select
respond to shifting conditions. the most logical order of the sentences to form a coherent
Q – Arrogant managers can overevaluate their current paragraph.
performance and competitive position listen poorly and learn (SSC Stenographer 2017)
slowly. 40. They sat
R – And the lack of leadership leaves no force inside these P-each holding a long, crooked rod in his hands
organizations to break out of the morass.
Q-and eagerly waiting for "a bite."
S – Inwardly focused employees can have difficulty seeing
R-in a heavy flat-bottomed boat
the very forces that present threats and opportunities.
(a) PRQS (b) SPQR (a) PQR (b) RPQ
(c) RQPS (d) QSPR (c) QRP (d) QPR
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 36 – 37) : The questions below consist of a 41. The boxes
set of labelled sentences. Out of the four options given, select P-were heavy
the most logical order of the sentences to form a coherent Q-so carrying two of them
paragraphs. R-was a lot of weight to handle
(SSC CGL 2017) (a) QRP (b) PQR
36. P – It would be better to speak of uniformities of nature. (c) RPQ (d) QPR
Q – Law of nature are not commands but statements of 42. A long hallway
facts.
P-leading to four bedrooms
R – This would do away with elementary fallacy that a law
Q-the back of the upstairs
implies a law given.
S – The use of the word law in this context is rather R-ran across
unfortunate. (a) QPR (b) QRP
(a) QSRP (b) SQRP (c) PQR (d) RQP
(c) QSPR (d) SQPR 43. His father laughed softly
37. P – When the game of life is finally over there is no second P-when he himself had been
chance to correct our errors.
Q-casting his mind back to the days of his youth
Q – Time is the greater equalizer of all mankind.
R-an eager player of the same game
R – Time offers opportunity but demands a sense of regard.
S – It has taken away the best and the worst of us without (a) PQR (b) RQP
regard of either. (c) QPR (d) QRP
(a) QSRP (b) RSQP 44. When they reached the summit,
(c) PQRS (d) RSPQ P-the boys could hear the faint notes
38. Rearrange the parts of the sentence in correct order. Q-of a festival wafted towards them
We are told that its
R-on the soft breeze of the spiring night
P - Public Distribution System
(a) QRP (b) RPQ
Q - Creating a functional
R - Sole purpose is the noble goal of (SSC CHSL 2017) (c) RQP (d) PQR
(a) QRP 45. Given below are four jumbled sentences. Out of the given
(b) RQP options pick the one that gives their correct order.
(SSC CHSL 2018)
(c) PRQ
A. Yes, first get us some fresh juice and some sandwiches.
(d) PQR
B. May I take your order?
Parajumbles 129

C. Not now, may be a little later. C. So he wanted to do the same for his children.
D. Sure. Would you like some coffee too? D. His own father used to do interesting activities with him.
(a) CDBA (b) ABCD (a) ABCD (b) ABDC
(c) BADC (d) BCDA (c) ADBC (d) ACBD
46. Given below are four jumbled sentences. Out of the given 51. Given below are four sentences, three of which, are jumbled.
options pick the one that gives their correct order. Pick the option that gives the correct order.
(SSC CHSL 2018) (SSC Steno 2018)
A. Then she does some gardening. A. Most countries now welcome tourists for the money
B. Finally before her mid morning nap, she eats a light they bring in,
breakfast. B. The money for that has to be borrowed from the banks.
C. My grandmother is an active eighty year old. C. Such countries need a lot of money to build good
D. She begins her morning with meditation. hotels.
(a) CDBA (b) DCBA D. Very often the borrowed money is not enough to build
(c) CABD (d) CDAB good hotels.
47. Given below are four jumbled sentences. Select the option (a) ACBD (b) ADBC
that gives their correct order. (SSC CGL 2018) (c) ADBC (d) ABCD
A. He would sit at the edge of her mother’s bed and stare 52. Given below are four sentences, three of which, are jumbled.
into her crib. Pick the option that gives the correct order.
B. Arvind bumbled down the interminable (SSC Steno 2018)
corridor,suddenly reminded of his daughter in the days A. The balloon took off slowly.
after she was born. B. The spectators were still waving to them.
C. As a proportion to the fragment of life his daughter C. But soon they were out of sight.
had seen, an hour was a vast sprawling space. D. Within minutes they were high above the fields.
D. Some days he would imagine the world through her (a) ADBC (b) ACBD (c) ADCB (d) DBCD
eyes and he would feel in his heart how long an hour 53. Given below are four sentences, three of which, are
actually was. jumbled. Pick the option that gives the correct order.
(a) BCDA (b) BADC (SSC Steno 2018)
(c) DACB (d) ABCD A. When Rama was 22, she bought a second hand car.
48. Given below are four jumbled sentences. Select the option B. But now it is costing her a lot for repairs.
that gives their correct order. (SSC CGL 2018) C. She wanted to travel to and from her office
A. It is a popular tourist spot for watching the sunset and comfortably.
sunrise over the ocean. D. It worked well for a few years,
(a) ABDC (b) ABCD
B. Kanyakumari is a coastal town in the State of Tamil
(c) ACDB (d) ADCB
Nadu on India’s southern tip.
54. Given below are four jumbled sentences. Select the option
C. It is also a noted pilgrimage site, thanks to its Bagvathi
that gives their correct order (SSC CGL 2019-20)
Amman Temple and Our Lady of Ransom Church, a
A. However, the rate of population increase is another
centre of Indian Catholicism.
important factor to consider.
D. Jutting out into the Laccadive sea, the town was known
B. This change can be expressed in two ways.
as Cape Comorin during the British rule.
C. Growth of population refers to the changes in the
(a) ACDB (b) DCAB number of inhabitants of a country.
(c) BDAC (d) BCDA D. First, in terms of absolute numbers and second, in terms
49. Given below are four sentences, three of which, are of percentage change.
jumbled. Pick the option that gives the correct order. (a) CBDA (b) CADB
(SSC Steno 2018) (c) BADC (d) BDCA
A. Kumar was the manager of a company. 55. Fill in the blank with the most appropriate word.
B. Their job was to find new and better products. We must ______ help to the homeless and physically
C. The company employed many scientists. disabled people. (SSC CGL 2019-20)
D. It made washing powders. (a) render (b) contribute
(a) ADCB (b) ADBC (c) ACDB (d) ACBD (c) donate (d) exert
50. Given below are four sentences, three of which, are jumbled. 56. Given below are four jumbled sentences. Select the option
Pick the option that gives the correct order. that gives their correct order
(SSC Steno 2018)
A. However, they ignore the truth that progress and
A. Pratap was 30 years old when he got married.
success are proportional to the labor they put in.
B. His ambition was to be a good father to his children.
 130 Parajumbles

B. The general human tendency is to find faults in the A. At length the olive tree’s branches broke with the
policies framed by the government. snow’s weight, at once despoiling of its beauty and
C. They blame the government for their slow progress, killing the tree.
expecting miracles and magical transformation in their B. A shower of snow fell upon them and, finding the olive
life. full of foliage, it settled upon its branches.
D. So people openly criticize and condemn the policy C. Finding the fig tree without leaves, the snow fell
makers. (SSC CGL 2019-20) through the branches to the ground and did not injure
(a) CDAB (b) BDCA it at all.
(c) DBAC (d) ABCD D. The olive tree ridiculed the fig tree because, while she
57. Given below are four jumbled sentences. Select the option was green all the year round, the fig tree changed its
that gives their correct order. (SSC CHSL 2019-20) leaves with the seasons.
A. Behind them come camels carrying drums and small (SSC CGL 2020-21)
guns. (a) ACBD (b) ABCD
B. The Emperor is escorted by two decorated elephants (c) DBAC (d) DACB
who head the procession. 61. Given below are four jumbled sentences. Out of the given
C. At the end come the platoons of soldiers in rows of options, pick the one that gives their correct order.
two. (SSC CHSL 2020-21)
D. First of all, there is a volley of guns announcing Emperor A. The man who had caught me was a dreadful sight.
Bahadur Shah’s entry into the mosque. B. Suddenly I was picked up, whirled through the air, and
(a) BCDA (b) DCBA made to sit on a tombstone.
(c) DBAC (d) ABDC
C. He was about forty years old, hard-faced and fierce.
58. Given below are four jumbled sentences. Select the option
D. I was only a child, and small for my age.
that gives their correct order. (SSC CHSL 2019-20)
(a) DBAC (b) BACD (c) DCBA (d) CBAD
A. In order to buy that bicycle, he plans to win some prize
money by teaching an illiterate person how to read 62. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order.
and write. Arrange the sentences in the right order to form a meaningful
B. He needs a bicycle to win the bicycle race which would and coherent paragraph. (SSC CHSL 2020-21)
help pay off his father ’s debt. A. The whole area has been designed like a garden from
C. The film ‘Douch’ is about a young Iranian village boy. Alice in Wonderland.
D. But the only illiterate person is a 90 year old woman B. It’s about having fun and learning, too; all the activities
who is ill-tempered and doesn’t wish to learn anything. help to explain the modern world of technology to the
(a) DABC (b) ADBC young visitors.
(c) CBAD (d) CABD C. But ‘The World of Children’ isn’t just about playing
59. Sentence of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order. games and having joy rides.
Arrange the sentences in the right order to from a meaningful D. There are several different attractions in this vast area
and coherent paragraph. and there is a lot to see and do.
A. When he reached his town, he went to his house and (a) ADBC (b) CBDA (c) DACB (d) BCDA
knocked at the door. 63. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
B. A man went away from his home.
STATIONARY (SSC MTS 2020-21)
C. Disappointed, he decided to take it himself.
(a) Moving (b) Square
D. One day he wrote a letter to his family, but could not
(c) Still (d) Watch
find any one to take the letter to his town.
64. Given here are four sentencec. The first sentence is in correct
(SSC CGL 2020-21)
order, while the rest of the sentences are jumbled.
(a) DACB (b) BDCA
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(c) ABCD (d) CBAD
Pick the option that gives their correct order.
60. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order.
A. We make a log of choices in our daily life.
Arrange the sentences in the right order to form a meaningful
B. Living on the edge may be exciting but not always the
and coherent paragraph.
right thing to do.
Parajumbles 131

C. These determine either our safety or put us in danger. 69. Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order.
D. Therefore, following limits is always the safer and better Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a
way of life. meaningful and coherent paragraph. (SSC CGL 2022)
(a) ACBD (b) ABCD (c) ABDC (d) ADBC A. When this extra water vapour condenses into
65. Given here are four sentences. The first sentence is in correct precipitation, it results in heavier rain — or, if it’s cold
order, while the rest of the sentences are jumbled. enough, heavier snow.
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21) B. The atmosphere can store an additional 4% of water
Pick the option that vies their correct order. vapour for every additional 1°F of warming.
C. More water evaporates from soils, plants, lakes and
A. There are two ways of getting rid of weeds in your
seas as the atmosphere warms.
garden - the easy way and the not-so-easy way. D. One of the most obvious indications of climate change
B. The easy way may be to run a lawn-mower and the is heavier rainfall.
lawn looks fine for a while. (a) CBDA (b) DCBA
C. It is time consuming and painful, but the weeds will (c) ACDB (d) BCAD
stay away for a longer time. 70. Sentences of a paragraph are given below. While the first
D. But the not-so-easy way may mean getting down on and the last sentences (S1 and S6) are in the correct order,
your knees and pulling out the weeds by the roots. the sentences in between are jumbled up and named
(a) ABCD (b) ABDC (c) ADBC (d) ACDB (SSC Stenographer 2022)
66. Given below are four jumbled sentence. Out of the given P, Q, R, S. Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form
options, pick the one that gives their correct order. a meaningful and coherent paragraph.
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21) (S1) The poster ranks high as a medium of publicity.
A. Susan Reynolds slipped into her car after putting her (P) Advertisement can be displayed before a much larger
shopping bags in the trunk. number of persons for a longer time by means of a poster
B. She reached her house and carried the shopping bags than by the expenditure of the same amount of money in the
Press, and it is, therefore, often found to be the better means
in.
of keeping them in the public eye.
C. It was a thirty-minute ride to her home and the traffic
(Q) Nor must it be forgotten that a newspaper is bought by
was light. the reader, and on that account enjoys an enhanced value;
D. She put them down and turned off the alarm. and further, that the purchaser usually takes the paper home
(a) ABDC (b) ACBD (c) ADCB (d) ABCD where it is perused by the whole household.
67. Given here are four sentences. The first sentence is in correct (R) It has, by reason of its size and the facilities which it
order, while the rest of the sentences are jumbled. affords for the use of colour, a very powerful effect on the
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21) public mind.
Pick the option that gives their correct word. (S) It must, however, be remembered that the attention re-
A. The computer company was in a crisis as its sales and ceived by a newspaper is much closer and more intimate
profile were were falling. than that accorded to a poster.
(S6) If more is desired than the instantaneous impact on the
B. He immediately set work chopping jobs and taking
mind, the advertising value of the poster falls sharply.
other tough decisions.
(a) Q, S, P, R (b) P, Q, R, S
C. Soon things started changing and the company was
(c) R, P, S, Q (d) R, P, Q, S
saved, at least in the short term.
71. Sentences of a paragraph are given below. While the first
D. The board brought in a new CEO with many years of
and the last sentences (S1 and S6) are in the correct order,
experience who began managing the crisis. the sentences in between are jumbled up. Arrange the sen-
(a) ABCD (b) ADCB (c) ADBC (d) ACBD tences in the correct order to form a meaningful and coher-
68. Given here are four sentences. The first sentence is in correct ent paragraph. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
order, while the rest of the sentences are jumbled. SI. Besides, there is something
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21) A. which makes him feel
Pic the option that gives their correct order. B. the wholeness of a thing
A. At last I reached my uncle’s beach house. C. in the outlook of an Englishman
B. I was determined to enjoy my stay thoroughly. D. as the mere sum of its states
C. But, somehow, I had forgotten to pack any sunscreen. S6. and attributes for the time being.
D. So, I had packed everything I might need. (a) BDCA (b) BCDA
(a) ADBC (b) ACBD (c) ABDC (d) ACDB (c) BACD (d) CABD
 132 Parajumbles

72. Parts of a sentence are given below in jumbled order. P. The Dutch defenders fell back westward, and by noon
Arrange the parts in the correct order to form a meaningful on May 12 German tanks were on the outskirts of
sentence. (SSC CHSL 2021-22) Rotterdam.
(a) is credited with saying Q. Queen Wilhelmina and her government left the country
(b) do not dry your feet for England on May 13, and the next day the Dutch
(c) If you want to leave your footprint on the sands of army surrendered to the Germans.
time, R. On May 10 the German blitzkrieg attack on the
(d) Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, former President of India Netherlands began with the capture by parachutists of
(a) d,c,a,b (b) d,a,c,b key bridges deep within the country, with the aim of
(c) c,a,b,d (d) a,b,c,d opening the way for mobile ground forces.
73. Rearrange the parts of the sentence in correct order. The
S. The invasion of Belgium also began on May 10, when
team plans to (SSC CHSL 2023)
German airborne troops landed on the fortress of Eben
P. flowering and fruit production in apple trees Emael, immediately opposite Maastricht, and on bridges
Q. use the data to get a better understanding of over the Albert Canal.
R. health-promoting compounds of interest and employ On May 11 the Belgian front was broken, and German tanks
S. biotechnological approaches that could speed up ran on westward while Belgian, French, and British divisions
(a) QRSP (b) PQRS fell back to a line between Antwerp and Namur.
(c) RSPQ (d) QSPR (a) PSRQ
74. Given below are four jumbled sentences. Pick the option (b) RPQS
that gives their correct order. The immediate context of the (c) PRSQ
Dunkirk evacuation was Germany's invasion of the Low
(d QPRS
Countries and northern France in May 1940.
(SSC CHSL 2023)

HINTS & EXPLANATIONS

1. (b) 2. (d) 3. (a) 4. (a) 5. (b) 6. (a) 42. (d) The correct sequence is RQP. A long hallway ran
7. (a) 8. (b) 9. (c) 10. (d) 11. (d) 12. (b) across the back of the upstairs leading to four
13. (d) 14. (c) 15. (a) 16. (d) 17. (c) 18. (b) bedrooms.
19. (d) 20. (c) 21. (d) 22. (b) 23. (b) 24. (c) 43. (c) The correct sequence is QPR. His father laughed softly
25. (c) 26. (d) 27. (b) 28. (a) 29. (b) 30. (c) casting his mind back to the days of his youth when
31. (c) 32. (c) 33. (b) 34. (b) 35. (d) 36. (c) he himself had been an eager player of the same game.
37. (a) 44. (d) The correct sequence is PQR. When they reached the
38. (b) The sentence begins with ‘we are told that its’ use of
summit, the boys could hear the faint notes of a festival
‘its’ here indicates that the following fragment should
wafted towards them on the soft breeze of the spring
contain something which relates to ‘its’.
night.
So option ‘R’ suitably fits here followed by fragments
45. (c) May I take your order? Yes, first get us some fresh
‘Q’ and ‘P’ respectively.
juice and some sandwiches. Sure. Would you like some
39. (a) ‘R’ should be the first sentence fragment as it contains coffee too? Not now, maybe a little later.
a subject ‘the poor’. Next fragment should be ‘P’ as it
46. (d) My grandmother is an active eighty year old. She begins
tells what the subject does. ‘Q’ should be last fragment her morning with meditation. Then she does some
as it contains ‘object’ of the sentence. So, sequence gardening. Finally before her mid morning nap, she
‘RPQ’ is the right answer. eats a light breakfast.
40. (b) The correct sequence is RPQ. They sat in a heavy flat 47. (b) BADC. The paragraph begins with 'Arvind bumbled
bottomed boat each holding a long, crooked rod in his down the interminable corridor, ...followed by 'he would
hands and eagerly waiting for "a bite". sit ..... followed by 'some days he would imagine ...and
41. (b) The correct sequence is PQR. The boxes were heavy remains with 'C'.
so carrying two of them was a lot of weight to handle. 48. (c) BDAC. The paragraph opens with the sentence
'Kanyakumari is a coastal town... followed by 'Jutting
Parajumbles 133

out into the Laccadive sea,'...followed by 'It is a popular 63. (a) Stationary means fixed so the opposite of it is moving.
spot... and the 'C' remains the last. 64. (a) Since the first option is talking about 'choices' the
49. (a) 50. (b) 51. (a) 52. (a) 53. (c) second sentence after it which is option c further
54. (a) CBDA elaborates on it. And since option c talks about dangers,
C should be the first fragment as it is the introductory the next sentence has to be option be which further
sentence, defining ‘growth of population’. B should builds up on that idea. And option D is the last as it has
be the second fragment as it is talking about the a concluding phrasal word 'therefore'.
‘change’ which is mentioned in C. D is the extension of 65. (b) The order is ABDC a talks about getting rid of weeds
B’s explanation. And obviously A is the last fragment and b further builds up on it by suggesting two ways
as it is beginning with concluding word ‘however’. to do it, D starts with a 'but' indicating a contradiction
Hence, the correct sequence is CBDA. so it comes second last and then we are left c, which
55. (a) Render comes last.
The word ‘render’ means provide or give (a service, 66. (b) A comes first as it introduces the subject. C comes next
help, etc.). hence, render is the right fit here.The terms as it follows up the theme stated in A -getting into the
‘contribute’ and ‘donate’ are used for giving some car and then thirty minutes ride. B is next as it talks
physical thing or help; money. Exert means apply or about reaching home. And lastly D which is the only
bring to bear (a force, influence, or quality), which is option left.
not correct here contextually. 67. (c) Option A talks about the crisis, while option D talks
56. (b) BDCA about crisis management. D talks about the new CEO,
B is the opening sentence of paragraph beginning with B further builds up on his functioning. And c provides
a problem (a general tendency of human); D should be a conclusion.
the next linkage as in B people ‘find faults’ is given and 68. (c) The order is ABDC. It begins with the author narrating
‘condemn and criticize’ is given in D. C is the next his arrival to then talking about his motives, to
fragment as it is expansion of D, also it is beginning explaining what action he took to carry out his motive.
with pronoun ‘they’ which is used for ‘people’ used in And lastly a contradictory statement.
D. and A is the last fragment beginning with concluding 69. (b) The order is DCBA. D comes first as it talks about the
word ‘however’. Hence, the coherent sequence is heavy rainfall. C comes next as it follows up the theme
BDCA. stated in D – water evaporation. B is next as it talks
57. (c) 58. (c) about the storage of water. And lastly A which is the
59. (b) Option B comes first as it introduces the subject of the only option left.
story. Option D further elaborates on it. Option number 70. (c) A meaningful flow of information should be ensured.
C is a follow up of option D which states that he could The statement (S1) is well explained by (R). Thus, (S1)
not find anyone to take the letter. And C states that he should be followed by (R). Statement (P) takes the
decided to take it himself. Option A comes after C, as it's argument forward by introducing a new statement on
the action of what he decided in option C. advertisement and the Press. Statement (S) is an
60. (c) The passage is about Olive tree and option D makes observation made on the sentence (P). Statement (Q)
the olive tree its subject and therefore comes first in begins with the word ‘nor’, thus it can only come after
rearrangement. Option B further narrates the story and a related argument, which is statement (P) here. The
thus comes next in rearrangement. Option B states that correct sequence, therefore is R,P,S,Q.
the snow fell on the trees and Option A further elaborate 71. (d) To make a coherent paragraph, one part should follow
son this and thus comes after B. While option A had the other in a meaningful way. Option (d) provides the
talked about Olive tree's condition after the snow fell correct sequence and makes a meaningful sentence.
on it, option C talks about fig tree's condition and comes 72. (b) Ist sentence starts with a noun or pronoun, in the
after A. The order is DBAC. given sentence Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam is a noun. And
61. (a) The passage is story, which begins with the subject’s remaining sentence will be rearranged as per the sense
introduction. So option D comes first. B builds up on of the context.
D’s statement. B was talking about the speaker being 73. (a) Q is the ist sentence followed by R that tells what the
picked up so A states the description of the man who data is all about. S is the 3rd statement as it talks about
picked up. And lastly C with the man’s description. Thus, approaches that could increase flowering and fruit
the order is DBAC. production in apple trees as mentioned in P. QRSP is
62. (c) The passage begins with D which highlights the subject the logical sequence.
of the passage-vast area. A further talks about the 74. (b) R is the ist statement as its states the beginning of the
subject, and thus comes next in order. Because A talks
German attacks, followed by P. Q is the 3rd statement
about wonderland, C which comes next builds up on
as it mentions about the next day. The last statement
that idea by talking about children’s world and stating
what it is not. Hence, B talks about what the world of is S. RPQS is the correct order of the given jumbled
children is about and thus comes last and after C. The sentences.
order is DACB.
9
134 Idioms/Phrases

Chapter
9 Idioms/Phrases

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 1-5) : In the following questions, four 10. To smell a rat
alternatives are given for the meaning of the given Idiom/Phrase. (a) to smell foul (b) to see a rat
Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the (c) to chase a rat (d) to be suspicious
Idiom/Phrase.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 11-15): In the following questions, four
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2011) alternatives are given for the idiom / phrase underlined in the
1. A bolt from the blue sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the
(a) a delayed event (b) an inexplicable event meaning of the idiom/phrase as your answer.
(c) an unexpected event (d) an unpleasant event (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012)
2. Cold comfort 11. Ram is very calculative and always has an axe to grind.
(a) absurdity (b) deception (a) has no result (b) works for both sides
(c) slight satisfaction (d) foolish proposal (c) has a private agenda (d) fails to arouse interest
3. To be all at sea. 12. The police looked all over for him but drew a blank.
(a) a family voyage (a) did not find him (b) put him in prison
(b) lost and confused (c) arrested him (d) took him to court
(c) in the middle of the ocean 13. On the issue of marriage, Sarita put her foot down.
(d) a string of islands (a) stood up (b) was firm
4. To take to one's heels (c) got down (d) walked fast
(a) to walk slowly (b) to run away 14. His investments helped him make a killing in the stock market.
(c) to march forward (d) to hop and jump (a) lose money quickly
5. To bite the dust (b) plan a murder quickly
(a) eat voraciously (b) have nothing to eat (c) murder someone quickly
(c) eat roots (d) None of the above (d) make money quickly
15. There is no gainsaying the fact that the country is in
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 6-10) : In the following questions, four difficulties.
alternatives are given for the given Idiom/Phrase. Choose the (a) ignoring (b) hiding
alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/ (c) forgetting (d) denying
Phrase.
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2011) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 16 - 20) : In the following questions, four
alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase given in bold in the
6. A damp squib sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the
(a) rainy weather (b) a disappointing result meaning of the Idiom/phrase.
(c) a skirt in a laundry (d) None of the above (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012)
7. In cold blood 16. His speech has taken the wind out of my sails.
(a) angrily (b) deliberately (a) made my words or actions ineffective
(c) excitedly (d) slowly (b) made me depressed
8. To take someone for a ride (c) made me think for the future
(a) to give a ride to someone (d) made me remember my past
(b) to deceive someone 17. There is no point in discussing the new project with him as
(c) to be indifferent he always pours cold water on any ideas.
(d) to disclose a secret (a) puts off (b) dislikes
9. To move heaven and earth (c) disapproves of (d) postpones
(a) to cause an earthquake 18. Regardless of what her parents said, she wanted to let her
(b) to try everything possible hair down that night.
(a) really enjoy (b) wash her hair
(c) to pray to all Gods
(c) comb her hair (d) work till late
(d) to tavel in a rocket
Idioms/Phrases 135

19. I jumped out of my skin when the explosion happened. 28. Adolescence is a period of halcyon days.
(a) was in panic (b) was excited (a) hard days (b) of mental pressure
(c) was nervous (d) was angry (c) happy days (d) days of preparation
20. She didn’t realize that the clever salesman was taking her 29. My sincere advice to my maidservant fell on stony ground.
for a ride. (a) was counter productive
(a) trying to trick her (b) taking her in a car (b) had a strong impact
(c) pulling her a long (d) forcing her to go with him (c) made on stubborn
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 21-25): In the following questions, four (d) had little success
alternatives are given for the idiom/phrase printed in bold in 30. He has all his ducks in a row; he is complacent.
the sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the (a) has everything ready
meaning of the idiom/phrase. (b) is well organised
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012) (c) always scores a zero
21. The project is carried over to this year, and we need to keep (d) never gets confused
the ball rolling.
(a) to continue the work DIRECTIONS (Qs. 31-35) : In the following questions, four
alternatives are given for the idiom/phrase underlined in the
(b) more information
sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the
(c) to do better meaning of the idiom/phrase.
(d) new strategies
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2012)
22. The host team bore the palm in the league matches.
31. For some people, writing verse is as duck takes to water.
(a) played quite well
(a) like taking the duck to water
(b) was victorious
(b) like bursting out suddenly
(c) was defeated
(c) like dropping the duck in the water
(d) played a very boring match
(d) like easily and naturally speaking
23. Just keep your wig on, everything will be alright.
32. He made my day by telling me how important I was to him.
(a) Hold on to your wig, so it won’t fall off
(a) gave me great pleasure
(b) Get another hair cut
(b) displeased me
(c) Calm down
(c) spoiled my day
(d) Take off your wig
(d) made me resentful
24. Parents pay through the nose for their children’s education.
33. He made away with ten thousand rupees in the course of
(a) by taking loans (b) an extremely high price
three months.
(c) grudgingly (d) willingly
(a) earned (b) ran away with
25. Monica’s habit of picking holes in every relationship is
(c) squandered (d) saved
very irksome.
34. The students of that group have assured their project guide
(a) admiring people (b) finding fault
that they will all work against the clock.
(c) criticizing people (d) arguing with people
(a) work while keeping patience
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 26 - 30) : In the following questions, four (b) work with vigour to finish in limited time
alternatives are given for the idiom / phrase and italicised in the (c) work with enthusiasm
sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the (d) work hard to go against the time
meaning of the idiom / phrase. 35. To let off steam, my friend started murmuring.
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012) (a) to release his tension (b) to show his anger
26. Once the case reached the court, the police washed their (c) to show his approval (d) to show his displeasure
hands off it.
(a) waited for a response to DIRECTIONS (Qs. 36 - 40) : In the following questions, four
(b) claimed credit for alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase bolded in the
sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the
(c) disassociated themselves from
meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
(d) seemed eager to continue
27. She wanted to go hitch-hiking but her mother put her foot (SSC CHSL 2012)
down and now she’s going by bus. 36. I could have continued my higher studies if I wanted but,
(a) took a firm stand that’s water under the bridge.
(a) something I cannot change
(b) expressed her displeasure
(b) the time I met with an accident near the bridge
(c) scolded her badly
(c) something my family did not want
(d) got irritated
(d) the time I went on a cruise
 136 Idioms/Phrases

37. My parents want me to study science, but I will stick to my 47. I felt a fish out of water among the lawyers.
guns and graduate in Economics. (a) special (b) happy
(a) prefer to disobey them (c) uncomfortable (d) proud
(b) hold on to my decision 48. The Cauvery water issue led to apple of discord between
(c) refuse to listen to them the two Governments.
(d) show them that they are wrong (a) cause of anger (b) cause of hatred
38. The manager dismissed the proposal out of hand and said (c) cause of quarrel (d) cause of animosity
that it was not at all practical. 49. The construction remains unfinished and the workers have
(a) completely (b) directly let the grass grow under their feet.
(c) simply (d) quickly (a) grown grass all over the lawn
39. The people of this village are the salt of the earth. (b) gone on a luxury tour
(a) rich (b) educated (c) delayed doing the work
(c) quarrelsome (d) kind
(d) demanded more benefits
40. He accused her of talking through her hat and refused to
50. The police smelt the rat behind the death of the girl.
accept a word of what she said.
(a) got very much confused
(a) talking straight (b) talking nonsense
(b) identified the cause of death
(c) talking tough (d) talking sense
(c) suspected that something is fishy
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 41-45): In the following questions, four (d) jumped to the conclusion
alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined. Choose
the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/ DIRECTIONS (Qs. Nos. 51-55) : In these questions, four
Phrase. alternatives are given for the Idiom/ Phrase given in bold in the
sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
41. Villagers always call a spade a spade.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
(a) to speak about spades
51. Let sleeping dogs lie.
(b) to speak in a straightforward manner
(a) Do not bring up an old controversial issue
(c) to call someone a spade
(b) Dogs can raise tempers
(d) to speak ill about someone
(c) Do not allow dogs to stand
42. Marty broke a dining-room window and had to face the
music when her father got home. (d) Prevent dog mobility
(a) accept the punishment (b) listen carefully 52. To get admission in present day educational institutions, all
children should be born with a silver spoon in the mouth.
(c) ask a lot of questions (d) listen to music
(a) be born to silver spoon manufacturer
43. To play second fiddle
(b) always hold a silver spoon
(a) to be happy, cheerful and healthy
(b) to reduce the importance of one's senior (c) be born with silver spoon
(c) take a subordinate role (d) be born in a rich family
(d) to do back seat driving 53. A man of straw means
44. Why are you jumping down my throat ? I wasn't even in the (a) a worthy fellow (b) an unreasonable person
house when it happened. (c) a man of no substance (d) a very active person
(a) running away (b) making a joke 54. Children complain about their parents' gifts. They should
(c) scolding me (d) forcing me to eat learn not to look gift horse in the mouth.
45. I am out of my wits and therefore cannot find a way to solve (a) look at a horse's mouth
the problem immediately. (b) find fault with the gifts received
(a) not intelligent enough (c) ask for more gift
(b) greatly confused (d) find goodness in the gifts
(c) helpless without power 55. Acquiring a job is a cakewalk for a student who has good
(d) totally ignorant academic performance coupled with the good attitude.
(a) walk away with a cake
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 46-50): In the following questions, four (b) a difficult achievement
alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase printed in bold in (c) a walkway made with cakes
the sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the (d) an easy achievement
meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2013) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 56-60) : In the following questions, four
46. Hard work pays in the long run. alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined. Choose
(a) always (b) over a period of time the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/
Phrase.
(c) indefinitely (d) never
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
Idioms/Phrases 137

56. To be above board. 66. I tried to feel his pulse on the issue, but in vain.
(a) To have a good height (a) find his views
(b) To be honest in any business deal (b) enlighten him
(c) Having no debts (c) argue with him
(d) To try to be beautiful
(d) guide him
57. To cry wolf.
(a) To listen eagerly (b) To give false alarm 67. For this act of indifference, he will be taken to task by the
authority.
(c) To turn pale (d) To keep off starvation
58. He is on the wrong side of seventy. (a) he will get an offical reprimand from the authority.
(a) more than seventy years old (b) he will be rewarded by the authority.
(b) less than seventy years old (c) he will tender his resignation to the authority.
(c) seventy years old (d) he will be entrusted with an official job.
(d) eighty years old 68. You need to have something up your sleeve if the present
59. To have an axe to grind. plan does not work.
(a) a private end to serve (b) to fail to arouse interest (a) have some honest means
(c) to have no result (d) to work for both sides (b) have some hidden sources of money
60. To drive home. (c) have a secret pocket in the sleeve
(a) To find one’s root (d) have an alternative plan
(b) To return to place of rest 69. The new manager ruled the roost to every one.
(c) Back to original position (a) exercised authority
(d) To emphasise (b) rushed through work
DIRECTIONS (61–65): In the following questions, four (c) got paid very handsomely
alternatives are given to the Idiom/Phrase underlined in the (d) created good impression
sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the
meaning of the Idiom/Phrase. 70. Despite his initial arrogance, he had to eat humble pie.
(a) he had to yield under pressure
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
61. What egged you on to become a social worker? (b) he maintained composure
(a) urged (b) dampened (c) he failed to protest eventually
(c) hindered (d) discouraged (d) he accepted the food offered
62. Many politicians in India are not fit to hold a candle to
Mahatma Gandhi. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 71-73) : In the following questions, four
(a) superior (b) equal alternatives are given for the Idiom / Phrase underlined in the
(c) inferior (d) indifferent sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the
meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
63. She must be paying through the nose for the face left.
(a) paying less than necessary (SSC CHSL 2013)
(b) paying too much 71. The police cordoned off the area after the explosion.
(c) paying the right amount (a) The police checked everyone in the area
(d) paying reluctantly (b) The police did not allow anyone to leave the area
64. He is putting the cart before the horse by purchasing (c) The police filled the whole area
furniture before buying a house.
(d) The police isolated the area
(a) doing a thing in the wrong way
(b) doing a thing in the right way 72. The manager hesitated to assign the job to the newcomer as
(c) committing a great crime he was wet behind the ears.
(d) doing things meticulously (a) stupid and slow-witted
65. Casting pearls before swine. (b) young and inexperienced
(a) speaking nice words and convincing them (c) drenched-in the rain .
(b) offering good things to underserving people (d) unpunctual and lethargic
(c) uplifting the needy for their welfare 73. Mrs. Roy keeps_an open house on Saturday evening
(d) doing worthwhile things to unknown people parties— you’ll find all kinds of people there.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 66-70) : In the following questions, four (a) keeps the doors of the house open
alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase printed in bold in (b) keeps the gates open for a few persons
the sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the (c) welcomes all members
meaning of the Idiom/ Phrase.
(d) welcomes a select group of people
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2013)
 138 Idioms/Phrases

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 74 - 76) : In the following questions, four (c) to understand the inner meaning
alternatives are given for the idiom / phrase underlined in the (d) to read carefully
sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the 85. Where discipline is concerned, I put my foot down.
meaning of the Idiom / Phrase. (a) take a firm stand (b) take a light stand
(SSC Multitasking 2013) (c) take a heavy stand (d) take a shaky stand
74. The man changed colours when I questioned him on the 86. The convict claimed innocence and stood his ground in
allocation of funds. spite of the repeated accusations.
(a) became different (b) got numbed (a) knelt (b) surrendered
(c) turned happy (d) get motivated (c) kept standing (d) refused to yield
75. We cannot depend on him for this assignment as it needs DIRECTIONS (Qs. 87-91) : In questions below, four alternatives
careful handling and he is like a bull in a China shop. are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined in the sentence.
(a) a felicitous person (b) a clumsy person Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the
(c) a tactful person (d) a no-nonsense person Idiom/ Phrase.
76. The mother always insists on keeping the house spick and (SSC Sub. Ins. 2014)
span. 87. We must work with all our might and main, otherwise we
(a) open (b) locked cannot succeed.
(c) safe (d) tidy (a) full force (b) complete trust
(c) exceptional skill (d) full unity
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 77-81) : In the following questions, four
88. The sailors nailed their colours to their mast.
alternatives are given for the Idiom / Phrase. Choose the
alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idion / Phrase. (a) put up a colourful mast
(SSC Stenographer 2013) (b) refused to climb down
77. Hue and cry (c) took over the ship
(a) lot of laughter (b) an uproar (d) decided to abandon the ship
(c) a burst of anger (d) plenty of tears 89. We had better batten down the hatches. The weather is
78. To win laurels unpredictable.
(a) to achieve success (b) to win the hearts of ladies (a) stay in-door
(c) to win praise (d) to win a lottery (b) prepare for a difficult situation
79. To pay heed (c) go somewhere safe
(a) to submit (b) to listen (d) face the obstacles
(c) to care for (d) to understand 90. It is difficult to have a sensible discussion with her as she
80. To eat a humble pie flies off at a tangent.
(a) feel humiliated (b) feel abandoned (a) gets carried away
(c) feel rejected (d) feel glorified (b) starts discussing something irrelevant
81. A tall order (c) loses her temper easily
(a) too difficult a task (b) a normal task
(d) does not really understand anything
(c) a simple task (d) an easy task
91. The students found it hard to go at equal speed with the
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 82-86): In the following questions, four professor.
alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined in the (a) get away from (b) put up with
sentences. Choose the alternative which best expresses the (c) keep up with (d) race against
meaning of the Idiom\Phrase.
(SSC CGL 2014) DIRECTIONS (Qs. 92-96) : In the following questions, four
82. With great difficulty, he was able to carve out a niche for alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined in the
himself. sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the
meaning of the Idiom /Phrase.
(a) became a sculptor
(b) did the best he could do (SSC CHSL 2014)
(c) destroyed his career 92. You cannot throw dust into my eyes.
(d) developed a specific position for himself (a) terrify me (b) cheat me
83. You will succeed if you follow my advice to the letter. (c) hurt me (d) abuse me
(a) about writing letters (b) written in the letter 93. He spoke well though it was his maiden speech.
(c) in every detail (d) very thoughtfully (a) long speech
84. A critic's work is to read between the lines. (b) first speech
(a) to comprehend the meaning (c) brief speech
(b) to appreciate the inner beauty (d) emotional speech
Idioms/Phrases 139

94. The students were all ears, when the speaker started talking 104. The day the new product was launched, people made a
about the changes in the exam. beeline to purchase it.
(a) smiling (b) silent (a) rushed (b) were doubtful
(c) restless (d) attentive (c) refused (d) went online
95. In his salad days he was quite a dandy.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 105-109): In the following questions, four
(a) childhood (b) adolescence
alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined in the
(c) school days (d) old age
sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the
96. He is cool about working at night. meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
(a) ready to work (b) not ready to work
(c) excited about working (d) grudgingly working (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015)
105. Unless you make amends for the loss, nobody is prepared
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 97-99): In the following questions, four to excuse you.
alaternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined in the (a) improve
sentence. Choose the alternative that best expresses the meaning
of the Idiom/Phrase. (b) pay debt
(SSC MTS 2014) (c) confess
97. The son wants to purchase a new car, but his father is (d) compensate
dragging his feet. 106. Instead of keeping his promise of helping me with office
(a) acting in a slow and hesitant manner work, he just left me high and dry.
(b) acting methodically (a) left me feeling like a fool
(c) acting quickly with firm conviction
(b) left me in a state of anger
(d) acting courageously
98. The student passed out in the lab during the practical exam. (c) left me without a drop of water
(a) fell down (b) became anxious (d) left me alone to do the work
(c) rushed out (d) fainted 107. Amit said to Rekha, "Don't make a mountain out of a molehill".
99. My friend Rahim is fair and square in all his dealings. (a) attempt an impossible task
(a) dishondest and complex (b) start looking for molehills in mountains.
(b) cruel
(c) create problems
(c) rough and complex
(d) honest and simple (d) exaggerate a minor problem
108. Before the report reached the authority, the media spilled
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 100-104): In the following Five Questions, the beans.
four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined in
(a) dropped the charges
the sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the
meaning of the Idiom\Phrase. (b) hinted at the consequences
(c) revealed the secret information
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015)
100. At his wit's end, he turned to his old trade. (d) spilled the content of the package
(a) After careful thinking 109. His friend turned out to be snake in the grass.
(b) Confidently (a) cowardly and brutal
(c) Not knowing what to do (b) low and mean
(d) Overjoyed (c) a hidden enemy
101. Then it comes to dancing, he is all–thumbs. (d) an unreliable and deceitful person.
(a) an expert (b) a trainer DIRECTIONS (Qs. 110-114) : In the following questions below,
(c) clumsy (d) lazy four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined in
102. He usually goes to bed very early and rises with the lark. the sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the
(a) very late meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
(b) very early (SSC Sub. Ins. 2015)
(c) after sunrise 110. The shopping mall is a beehive of activity.
(d) at midnight (a) a secure place (b) a sweet place
103. Their attempt to get back the stolen necklace proved to be a (c) a busy place (d) a costly place
wild goose chase. 111. To win laurels.
(a) wise decision (a) To be disappointed
(b) useless search (b) To memories
(c) timely action (c) To be victorious in a game
(d) delayed action (d) To earn great prestige
 140 Idioms/Phrases

112. The officer was in the soup when there was a raid in his (c) An accurate summary
office. (d) A breakfast being served by the dogs
(a) preparing soup (b) distributing soup 122. You will be reminded of the seamy side of life if you visit the
(c) to be in trouble (d) drinking soup slum tenements.
113. We must draw the line somewhere. (a) the softer aspects (b) the unpleasant aspects
(a) turn the tables (b) put the screw on (c) the pleasanter aspects (d) the gentler aspects
(c) fix a limit (d) aim at the sky DIRECTIONS (Qs. 123-125): In each of the questions, four
114. To cut the Gordian knot. alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase. Choose the alternative
(a) to do a job perfunctorily which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase and click
(b) to cut a piece of cloth the button corresponding to it.
(c) to perform an easy task (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
(d) to perform a difficult task 123. To keep in abeyance
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 115-118): In the following questions, four (a) In a state of permanence
alternatives are given for the Idiom / Phrase underlined. Choose (b) In a state of emergency
the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom / (c) In a state of suspension
Phrase. (SSC CHSL 2015) (d) In a state of revision
115. To put in a nut- shell 124. To be in a fix
(a) To state something very concisely (a) In pain (b) In distress
(b) To place something (c) Depressed (d) In a difficult situation
(c) To be blunt about something 125. To break the ice
(d) To be long and exhaustive about something (a) Made people angry
116. To make up one's mind (b) Made people laugh
(a) To remember things clearly (c) Made people excited
(b) To remember oneself of something (d) Made people relaxed and comfortable
(c) To think creatively DIRECTON (Qs. 126-128) : In each of the questions, four
(d) To decide what to do alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase. Choose the
117. Nowadays, it has become a fashion to take French leave. alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/
Phrase.
(a) Saying goodbye in French style
(b) Absenting oneself without permission (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
126. Wild goose chase
(c) Taking leave to go to France
(a) An admirable enterprise
(d) Seeking permission from French Embassy
(b) An honest effort
118. International monetary affairs are governed by the gnomes
of Zurich. (c) A foolish, unprofitable adventure
(a) foreign leaders (b) big international bankers (d) A powerful effort
(c) guardians of treasure (d) witchcraft of Zurich 127. Smell a rat
(a) Detect bad smell (b) Suspect a trick or deceit
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 119-122): Four alternatives are given for
(c) Misunderstand (d) See hidden meaning
the Idiom/Phrase underlined. Choose the alternative which best
expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase. 128. A live wire
(a) Industrious and brilliant
(SSC CHSL 2015)
(b) Lively and active
119. A Sacred Cow
(c) Sincere and intelligent
(a) a person never to be criticised
(d) Sincere and efficient
(b) a saintly person
(c) a very religious person DIRECTIONS (Qs. 129-131) : In each of the questions, four
(d) a helpful person alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase. Choose the
120. To shun evil company alternative which best expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase
(a) To kick out evil company and click the button corresponding to it.
(b) To give up evil company (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
(c) To put off evil company 129. pull a fast one
(d) To let loose evil company (a) as fast as lightning
121. He has made a dog's breakfast of these accounts. (b) play a trick
(a) A total mess (c) carry a heavy burden
(b) A breakfast for the dogs.. (d) take a deep breath
Idioms/Phrases 141

130. Grease the palm 141. Do not pull a long face.

(a) dirty one's hands (b) work in a garage (a) look dejected (b) look happy
(c) slip and fall (d) bribe (c) look ugly (d) look tired
131. turn turtle
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 142 – 143) : In the following questions, out
(a) slow like a turtle (b) turn upside down of the four alternatives, select the alternative which best
(c) over-turn (d) a game turtles play expresses the meaning of the idiom/phrase.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 132-136) : In the following Five Questions, (SSC CGL 2017)
four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined. 142. To keep the wolf from door
Choose the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the (a) Avoid starvation (b) Crack the deal
Idiom/Phrase.
(c) Entry Prohibited (d) Have a pleasant tour
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2016) 143. Teething problems
132. To put his foot down. (a) Oral problems
(a) To act firmly (b) Resign (b) Problems at the start of a new project
(c) Ready to work (d) Concede (c) Problems for quite a long time in adjusting
133. Have a foot in the grave. in the new place
(a) be close to death. (d) Problem of having good dentist.
(b) have no interest in life. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 144 – 145) : In the following questions, out
(c) have an incurable disease. of the four alternatives, select the alternative which best expresses
(d) be afraid to nest the meaning of the idiom/phrase.
134. A hornet's nest.
(SSC CGL 2017)
(a) an unpleasant situation (b) a dilemma
144. The alpha and the omega
(c) a comfortable position (d) among thorns
(a) Happy and sad
135. To roll out the red carpet. (b) The beginning and the end
(a) to decorate the room (b) to give a grand welcome (c) The love and the hatred
(c) to give a warning signal (d) to buy a gift (d) Truth and dare
136. To have an axe to grind. 145. Throw up the sponge
(a) To work for both sides. (a) To attack
(b) To fail to arouse interest (b) To laugh at someone
(c) To criticize someone (c) To surrender
(d) To have a selfish end to serve (d) To talk loudly
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 146 – 147) : In the following questions, out
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 137-141) : In the following Five Questions,
four alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined in of the four alternatives, select the alternative which best
the sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
meaning of the Idiom/Phrase. (SSC CGL 2017)
(SSC Stenographer 2016) 146. Spick and Span
137. Who will believe, your cock and bull story ? (a) High and low (b) Dark and light
(a) Absurd story (b) Common story (c) Neat and clean (d) Happy and sad
(c) Ambiguous story (d) Authentic story 147. To draw the longbow
138. For years I could not shake off the trauma of that day: (a) To nullify (b) To exaggerate
(a) imagine (b) None of these (c) To underrate (d) To demarcate
(c) forget (d) remember DIRECTIONS (Qs. 148 – 149) : In the following questions, out
139. Sit on the fence. of the four alternatives, select the alternative which best
(a) halting between two opinions expresses the meaning of the idiom/phrase.
(b) to be defeated and dejected (SSC CGL 2017)
(c) to be in a tricky situation 148. Ended in a fiasco
(d) to be relaxed and comfortable (a) A complete failure (b) A successful event
140. The manager is not dismissed, but he is definitely under a (c) Changed one completely (d) Twisted around
cloud. 149. Sow wild oats
(a) under scrutiny (a) To make someone fool
(b) warned severely (b) To make space to red
(c) under suspension (c) To take revenge
(d) under suspicion (d) To waste time by doing foolish things
 142 Idioms/Phrases

150. In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select (c) Last change to take decision
the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the (d) Last chance
idiom/phrase: 160. Back to Square One
An outline representing or bounding the shape or form of (a) to go back to the beginning
something. (SSC CHSL 2017) (b) going forward
(a) tracery (b) contour (c) yor are holding a grudge
(c) doodle (d) pattern (d) to go back to a square
151. In the following question, out of the four alternatives, select 161. Burst Your Bubble
the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the (a) to blow away the balloons
idiom/phrase. (b) to ruin someone's happiness
Head over heels (SSC CHSL 2017) (c) to give up
(a) to think with instead of heart (d) to talk with someone
(b) to run away from an unpleasant situation DIRECTIONS (Qs. 162 – 164) : In the following questions, four
(c) to take a nasty fall alternatives are given for the Idiom/Phrase underlined in the
(d) to be madly in love sentence. Choose the alternative which best expresses the
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 152 – 156) : In the following questions, out meaning of the Idiom/Phrase.
of the four alternatives, select the alternative which best (SSC MTS 2017)
expresses the meaning of the idiom/phrase. 162. John was as good as his word and came on time for the
(SSC Sub. Insp. 2017) meeting.
152. An iron will (a) convincing
(a) A widely debated issue (b) A fair bargain (b) punctual
(c) An impracticable plan (d) A firm opinion (c) able to fulfill his promise
153. Get into a soup (d) a promising young man
(a) To make things difficult (b) To be worrisome 163. He came to work looking very off colour.
(c) To be familiar of (d) To get an advantage (a) tired (b) unhappy
154. Haul over the coals (c) worried (d) ill
(a) Talk irrelevantly (b) Laugh heartily 164. I was asked to take a hike for a comment I made.
(c) To scold (d) Without hope (a) be quiet (b) think
155. To carry the day (c) leave (d) take a break
(a) To run away 165. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom
(b) To die while in service in the given sentence.
(c) To take an unimportant task My aunt who orders every one around is a pain in the neck.
(d) To succeed (SSC CHSL 2018)
156. Go over (a) irritating
(a) Continue (b) Review (b) short tempered
(c) Harmonize (d) Terminate (c) curious
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 157 – 161) : In the following questions, out (d) argumentative
of the four given alternatives, select the alternative which best 166. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom
expresses the meaning of the Idiom/Phrase. in the given sentence.
157. Apple of one's eye Please come to the point, don’t beat around the bush.
(a) the person with sweet tastes (SSC CHSL 2018)
(a) avoid the topic
(b) the person with wide pupils
(b) hide behind a bush
(c) the person who likes apple
(c) make excuses
(d) the person who someone loves or cherishes the most
(d) accept defeat
158. Ball is in your court
167. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom
(a) Make the right decision in the given sentence. (SSC CGL 2018)
(b) The judgement in is your favour Let us have all the regulations in black and white.
(c) You should catch the ball (a) painted in colour
(d) It is upto you to decide something
(b) printed in coloured ink
159. Last Straw (c) written on the black-board
(a) Last problem in the series of problems (d) in writing
(b) Last attempt to do something
Idioms/Phrases 143

168. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom 177. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom
in the given sentence. in the given sentence. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
The invigilator did not know that the two boys were Getting the Fulbright Scholarship at this young age is a
exchanging notes under his nose. (SSC CGL 2018) feather in his cap.
(a) written in small letters (a) a sign of his intelligence
(b) rolled into small pellets (b) Something he can show off about
(c) an accomplishment to be proud of
(c) wrapped in handkerchiefs
(d) an award not to be given up
(d) right in front of him
178. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom
169. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
in the given sentence. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
Smell a rat (SSC Steno 2018) I am fed up with his false promises.
(a) Have no doubts about something (a) furious (b) disgusted
(b) Feel that there is a loss in business (c) pleased (d) hopeful
(c) Think that there is a dead animal 179. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom
(d) Have a reason to suspect something in the given sentence. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
170. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. The cost of living has increased so much that many people
Move heaven and earth (SSC Steno 2018) find it difficult to make both ends meet.
(a) Pay for something (a) help other people
(b) Make every effort to achieve something (b) buy something new
(c) Start something new (c) buy expensive gadgets
(d) Make difficult choices (d) earn enough to survive
171. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence. 180. Select the meaning of the given idiom.
Can you read this book? (SSC Steno 2018) Apples and oranges. (SSC MTS 2018)
(a) Can you have read this book? (a) Same things
(b) Could this book have been read by you? (b) Different things
(c) Can this book be read by you? (c) Fresh
(d) This book can be read by you. (d) Nutritious
181. Select the meaning of the given idiom.
172. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
At the drop of a hat. (SSC MTS 2018)
In the nick of time (SSC Steno 2018)
(a) Facing difficulties
(a) The beginning of a month
(b) Completely
(b) A special occasion (c) Immediately
(c) At the last possible moment (d) Losing a hat
(d) A long delay 182. Select the appropriate meaning of the given idiom
173. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. To take French leave (SSC CGL 2019-20)
To turn over a new leaf (SSC Steno 2018) (a) Welcome the host
(a) To change your behaviour in a positive way (b) Acknowledge the host
(b) To become famous (c) Leave with written permission
(c) To buy new things (d) Leave without any intimation
(d) To understand others’ problems 183. Select the appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
174. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. A hard nut to crack (SSC CGL 2019-20)
Once in a blue moon (SSC Steno 2018) (a) Easily encouraged (b) Easily disappointed
(a) Always (b) Rarely and infrequently (c) A difficult problem (d) Not restrained
(c) At regular intervals (d) A natural occurrence 184. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
175. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom The ball is in (one’s) court. (SSC MTS 2019-20)
in the given sentence. (a) To be responsible for further action
If you go for this training, it will be beneficial to you in the (b) To pass the responsibility to another
long run. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018) (c) To be fearful of taking any action
(a) regularly (b) eventually (d) To risk everything in one venture
(c) immediately (d) intermittently 185. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
176. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom Bend over backwards. (SSC MTS 2019-20)
in the given sentence. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018) (a) To express sudden shock
Let’s hope they will bury the hatchet and be friends again. (b) To exert a lot of effort towards some end
(a) make plans cleverly (b) keep quiet
(c) To end all activities
(c) take courage (d) forget past quarrels
(d) To confess to a crime
 144 Idioms/Phrases

186. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. 196. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
Actions speak louder than words (SSC CHSL 2019-20) Twist someone’s arm (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(a) What you don’t say is what you are (a) hurt someone by mittake
(b) What you do is your own business (b) understand a problematic situation
(c) What you do reveals the real you (c) handle a situation cleverly
(d) What you can see may not be true (d) persuade someone to do something
197. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
187. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
To call the shots (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
A piece of cake (SSC CHSL 2019-20) (a) To call someone (b) To shoot someone
(a) Something serious (c) To have control (d) To take pictures
(b) Something difficult 198. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
(c) Something easy Dry run (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(d) Something amusing (a) Running without shoes
188. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. (b) Rehearsal of an event
Be at a loss for words (SSC CGL 2020-21) (c) Running is a desert
(a) Not aware of the language (d) Jogging in a park
(b) Not know what to say 199. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
(c) Habituated to using difficult words At a snail’s pace (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(d) Lost the urge to speek (a) rapidly (b) peacefully
189. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. (c) very slowly (d) carelessly
Want to curl up and die (SSC CGL 2020-21) 200. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
(a) Unable to sleep well A dry run (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(a) a rehearsal (b) a poor harvest
(b) Want to die comfortably
(c) a slow run (d) a run on dry ground
(c) Too tired from physical labour
201. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
(d) Feel terribly ashamed and sorry
Little by little (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
190. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. (a) a few (b) not much
Not one’s cup of tea (SSC CHSL 2020-21) (c) only once (d) gradually
(a) Beyond one’s comprehension 202. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
(b) Not absolutely true Give a hand (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(c) Not according to one’s interest (a) donate an organ (b) assist
(d) Of no concern for someone (c) encourage (d) clap hands
191. Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiomatic 203. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
expression given. (SSC CHSL 2020-21) Look out (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(a) find out (b) search (c) be careful (d) locate
To cross one’s mind
204. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
(a) To think of something Call on (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
(b) To forget something (a) step out (b) visit
(c) To move from one idea to another (c) telephone (d) announce
(d) To put a thought away from one’s mind 205. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
192. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. Out for the count (SSC MTS 2021-22)
(a) Very expensive
SUFFICIENT (SSC MTS 2020-21)
(b) Prepared for battle
(a) Enough (b) Inadequate
(c) In a deep, insensible sleep
(c) Precise (d) Intense
(d) Ready for scrutiny
193. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
206. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
At loggerheads (SSC MTS 2020-21)
Draw the line (SSC MTS 2021-22)
(a) To disagree strongly.
(a) To accept someone’s idea
(b) To hit someone with a log
(b) To give a second chance
(c) To sit and discuss
(d) To agree unwillingly (c) To move on from a past relationship
194. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. (d) To set a limit on something
At a stretch (SSC MTS 2020-21) 207. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
(a) Within a month (b) After some time (SSC CGL 2021-22)
(c) During a year (d) Without a stop Be hard up
195. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. (a) Unable to calculate
Once and for all (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) (b) Have very little money
(a) Finally (b) Effictively (c) Have difficulty in climbing stairs
(c) happily (d) Out of Control (d) Find it very difficult to wake up early
Idioms/Phrases 145

208. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. (a) To be in charge or control of a situation
(SSC CGL 2021-22) (b) To avoid speaking up on something
In the same breath (c) To be able to drive a vehicle
(a) Try and hold your breath (d) To allow other people to go past yourself
(b) Say two contradictory things at the same time 217. Select the most appropriate idiom from the following options
(c) Able to get a foul smell that can substitute the underlined part of the given sentence.
(d) Practice breathing exercises (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
209. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. He is the most successful businessman. One of his traits is
(SSC CGL 2022) to take risk.
Like a cakewalk (a) Throw caution to the wind
(a) Smooth surface (b) Pleasant experience (b) Talk through his hat
(c) Easy task (d) Active (c) Fill somebody fs shoes
210. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. (d) Tighten his belt
(SSC CGL 2022)
218. Select the most appropriate phrase for the underlined
All eyes
segment in the given sentence. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
(a) Watching with anger
(b) Watching eagerly They are rivals and cannot work together in harmony
(c) Watching with no interest (a) Potter about (b) Make up
(d) Not watching at all (c) Put down (d) Pull together
211. Select the most appropriate option that can substitute the 219. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
underlined segment in the given sentence. Cutting corners (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
(SSC CGL 2022) (a) Investing in MNCs to get better returns and exchange
He was looking into his book for the last two hours but (b) Doing something poorly in order to save time or money
couldn’t find it. (c) Stitching clothes with a unique design
(a) looking down on his book (d) Cutting the edges to make it small and round
(b) looking above his book
220. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
(c) looking for his book
Call it a day (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
(d) looking after his book
212. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. Hit (a) Call it as a bad day
the nail on the head (SSC Stenographer 2022) (b) Stop thinking in daytime
(a) Do something without having planned beforehand (c) Call it as a good and productive day
(b) Take advantage of a good situation (d) Stop working on something
(c) Do something pointless 221. Select the correct meaning of the idiom in bold and italics.
(d) Do something exactly right I had a close shave this morning . my car was hit badly by a
213. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. bull. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
Hit the sack (SSC Stenographer 2022) (a) In a position where one might receive severe criticism
(a) Achieve something (b) Go to sleep (b) To be carrying a wild look
(c) Complete the task (d) To harm someone (c) To request someone to stay calm and not get annoyed
214. Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idi-
(d) A narrow escape
om.
Cissy promised to turn over a new leaf and keep her room 222. Choose the correct meaning of the underlined idiom in the
clean from now on. (SSC Stenographer 2022) given sentence. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
(a) To tease someone Blue blood is not necessarily a guarantee of one fs public
(b) To start behaving in a better way decorum.
(c) To take a chance (a) A person belonging to a middle-class family
(d) To accept immediately (b) A person belonging to an honest family
215. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. (c) A person belonging to a poor family
Separate the wheat from the chaff (d) A person belonging to a high family
(SSC Stenographer 2022) 223. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
(a) Cooking food during famine To make matters worse (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022)
(b) To separate the valuable from the worthless (a) No matter can become worse
(c) Harvesting crops and cooking them
(b) Sometimes situation can become worse
(d) Farming barren lands with little water
(c) Make the situation worse
216. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
To be in the driving seat (SSC Stenographer 2022) (d) Matters can be worse
 146 Idioms/Phrases

224. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. (a) Next to someone (b) Far away
Heart and soul (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022) (c) Strong grip (d) Strong bond
(a) With complete honesty 228. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
(b) Front to front Blow up (SSC CHSL 2021-22)
(a) To suffice
(c) With all the effort you can put (b) To live up greatly
(d) Feeling sympathy for someone (c) To destroy by an explosion
225. Choose the correct meaning of the underlined idiom in the (d) To stand upright
given sentence. (SSC Sub-Inspector 2022) 229. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
With two toddlers to handle and no house help at her Zero tolerance (SSC CHSL 2023)
disposal, Shilpa can never put her house in apple-pie order. (a) To detect someone in the group is betraying the others
(a) Completely messy (b) Riding in the front passenger seat of a car
(b) Smell-proof (c) To escape and not have to pay
(c) Completely arranged (d) A policy of not allowing any violations of a rule or law
(d) Ready for guests 230. In the following question, out of the given four alternatives,
226. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. select the alternative which best expresses the meaning of
Lose your touch (SSC CHSL 2021-22) the Idiom/Phrase. (SSC CHSL 2023)
(a) Doing someone a favour in hopes that the favour will To bridge the gap
be returned (a) To reduce differences and reconcile
(b) To be passed from one person to another (b) To push people apart
(c) Not being as successful as previously
(c) To mend a broken bridge
(d) Something being very difficult to find
(d) To slander someone
227. Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
At one’s elbow (SSC CHSL 2021-22)

HINTS & EXPLANATIONS

1. (c) Idiom 'a bolt from the blue' means : an event or a piece 12. (a) Idiom draw a blank means : to get no response or result.
of news which is sudden and unexpected; a complete 13. (b) Idiom put your foot down means : to be very strict in
surprise. opposing what somebody wishes to do; to drive faster.
2. (c) Cold Comfort (Noun) means : the fact that something 14. (d) Idiom make a killing means : to make a lot of money
that would normally be good does not make you happy quickly.
because the whole situation is bad. 15. (d) Idiom Gainsay (verb) means : to disagree; to deny.
3. (b) Idiom to be all at sea means : confused and not knowing 16. (a) Idiom take the wind out of somebody's sails means : to
what to do. make somebody suddenly less confident or angry when
4. (b) Idiom take to your heels means : to run away from you say or do something that they do not expect.
somebody/something. 17. (c) Idiom pour/throw cold water on something means : to
5. (d) Idiom bite the dust means : to fail or to be defeated or give reasons for not being in favour of something; to
destroyed. criticize something
6. (b) Idiom ‘A damp Squib’ means: a situation or event which 18. (a) Idiom let your hair down means : to relax and enjoy
is much less impressive than expected. your-self especially in a lively way.
7. (a) Idiom ‘In cold blood’ means: violent or aggressive. 19. (a) Idiom jump out of your skin means : to move violently
8. (b) Idiom ‘To take someone for a ride’ means: to trick or because of a sudden shock.
cheat somebody. 20. (a) Idiom take somebody for a ride means : to cheat or trick
9. (b) Idiom ‘To move heaven and earth’ means: to try somebody.
everything possible, to exert the utmost effort. 21. (a) Idiom get/set/start/keep the ball rolling means : to make
10. (d) Idiom ‘To smell a rat’ means: to believe that something something start happening; to make sure that something
is wrong in a particular situation, to be suspicious. continues to happen.
11. (c) Idiom have an axe to grind means : to have private 22. (b) Idiom ‘bore the palm’ means: to win, victory
23. (c) Idiom ‘keep your wig on’ means: to tell someone to
reasons for being involved in something or for arguing
calmdown
for a particular cause.
Idioms/Phrases 147

24. (b) Idiom pay through the nose means : to pay too much 49. (c) Idiom ‘Let the grass grow under your feet’ means: to
money for something. delay in getting things done.
25. (b) Idiom pick holes in something means : to find the weak 50. (c) Idiom ‘Smell the rat’ means: to suspect that somebody
points in something such as a plan, suggestion etc. is wrong about a situation.
26. (c) Idiom washed their hands off means : to absolve oneself 51. (a) Idiom ‘Let sleeping dogs lie’ means to avoid mentioning
of responsibility or future blame. a subject that happened in the past, in order to avoid
27. (a) Idiom put her foot down means : to tell someone in a any problems or argument.
strong way that they must do something or that they 52. (d) Phrase ‘Born with a silver spoon in your mouth’ means
must stop doing something. having rich parents.
28. (c) Idiom Halcyon days means : a very happy or successful 53. (c) Idiom ‘A man of straw’ means a man of no substance;
period in the past. an ordinary man.
29. (d) Idiom fell on stony ground means : If a request, a 54. (b) Phrase ‘Look a gift horse in the mouth’ means to refuse
warning, or advice falls on stony ground, people ignore or criticize something that is given to you for nothing.
it. 55. (d) Idiom ‘A cakewalk’ means something that is extremely
30. (b) Idiom has all his ducks in a row means : to organize easy to do.
things well. 56. (b) Phrase If somebody is ‘above board,’ he/she is honest
31. (d) Idiom ‘as duck takes to water’ means: easily and in any business deal.
smoothly. 57. (b) Phrase ‘To cry wolf’ means that someone is giving
32. (a) Idiom ‘made my day’ means: to put in a good mood, to false alarm.
give great pleasure. 58. (a) Idiom ‘on the wrong side of (any age)’ means: some
33. (c) Idiom ‘made away with’ means: to escape with stolen what more than (a specific age) i.e. more than the given
thing, to run away. age.
34. (b) The meaning of against the clock : in a great hurry to 59. (a) Phrase If you have ‘an axe to grind’ that means you
get something done before a particular time. have a private end to serve.
35. (b) The meaning of let off steam : to release one’s pent-up 60. (d) Idiom If you ‘drive something home’, that means you
emotions, such as anger, usually verbally. are making something completely clear to someone.
36. (a) Phrase ‘water under the bridge’ means: problems that She didn't have to drive the point home. The movie
someone has had in the past that they do not worry had done that.
about because they happened a long time ago and 61. (a) Idiom ‘egged you on’ means: to encourage somebody
can’t be changed now. to do something, to urge, push and incite etc.
37. (b) Idiom ‘stick to one’s gun’ means: to remain determined 62. (c) Phrase ‘not fit to hold a candle’ means: not to be named
or steadfast in one’s opinion. in comparison with, inferior or of a lower quality.
38. (d) Phrase ‘Out of hand’ means: without taking time to 63. (b) Idiom ‘Paying through the nose’ means: to pay an
think, quickly. exorbitant amount of money, to pay excessive amount
39. (d) Idiom ‘Salt of the earth’ means: A person or a group of money.
that is regarded as genuine, unpretentious and morally 64. (a) Idiom ‘putting the cart before the horse’ means: to do
sound. things in a wrong order.
40. (b) Phrase ‘talk through your hat’ means: to talk about 65. (b) Idiom ‘Casting pearls before swine’ means: to offer
something without understanding and thinking; something valuable or good to someone who does not
nonsense. know its value.
41. (b) Phrase ‘call a spade a spade’ means: speak frankly and 66. (a) Idiom Feel pulse means: to try to know someone's views.
directly. 67. (a) Phrase Take somebody to task means: to criticize
42. (a) Phrase ‘face the music means: be confronted with the somebody strongly for something they have done.
unpleasant consequences of one’s actions. 68. (d) Idiom Have/keep something up your sleeve means: to
43. (c) Phrase ‘to play second fiddle’ means: to have a keep a plan or an idea secret until you need to use it.
subordinate role to someone or something. 69. (a) Phrase Rule the roost means: to be the most powerful
44 (c) Idiom ‘Jumping down my throat’ means: to scold member of a group.
someone severely. 70. (a) Phrase Eat humble pie means: to say and show that
45. (b) Idiom ‘Out of my wits’ means: to frighten someone to you are sorry for a mistake that you made.
such an extent that they behave irrationally. 71. (d) Phrase ‘Cordon off’ means: to close, isolate, block and
46. (b) Phrase ‘In the long run’ means: concerning a longer barricade etc.
period in the future. 72. (b) Idiom ‘wet behind the ears’ means: inexperienced, often
47. (c) Phrase ‘A fish out of water’ means: a person who feels because one is young.
uncomfortable or awkward. 73. (c) Idiom ‘keep an open office’ means: to have one’s house
48. (c) Idiom ‘Apple of discord’ means: cause of quarrel. in a state or condition in which visitors or guests are
welcomed at any time.
 148 Idioms/Phrases

74. (a) Phrase ‘change colour’ means: to give a completely 98. (d) The idiom 'pass out' means to become unconscious
different form and to cause to be different etc. and faint.
75. (b) Idiom ‘bull in a China Shop’ means: one who is 99. (d) The idiom 'fair and square' means completely fair; justly;
aggressive and clumsy in a situation that requires within the rules.
delicacy and care. 100. (c) At ‘one's wit's end’ means at the limits of one's mental
76. (d) Idiom ‘spick and span’ means: totally clean/organized. resources; very upset.
77. (b) Idiom ‘Hue and Cry’ means a loud clamour or public 101. (c) The idiom‘All thumbs’ means very awkward and
outcry. clumsy, especially with one's hands.
78. (c) Idiom ‘To win laurels’means: to win honour/respect. 102. (b) The phrase ‘To rise with the lark’ entails to rise very
79. (b) Phrase ‘To pay heed’ means: to pay attention or to early in the morning.
listen. 103. (b) The idiom ‘Wild-goose chase’ means a worthless hunt
80. (a) Idiom ‘eat a humble pie’ means: to admit that one is or chase; a futile pursuit.
wrong, usually when doing so triggers great 104. (a) The idiom ‘Make a beeline’ for someone or something
embarrassment or shame. means heading straight toward someone or something.
81 (a) Idiom ‘A tall order’ means: very difficult to do or get. 105. (d) The phrase ‘Make amends for’ means make payment
82. (d) In the sentence, 'to carve out a niche' means 'to de- to; compensate
velop a specific position for oneself'. The word 'niche' 106. (d) The idiom ‘Leave somebody high and dry’ means to
means 'a specialized area or sector'. leave someone alone in problem.
83. (c) The alternative meaning of the phrase 'to the letter' is 107. (d) If you are making a mountain out of a molehill, it means
'in every detail'. you are exaggerating things, blowing them out of
84. (c) The meaning of the idiom 'to read between the lines' is proportion.
'to understand the inner meaning'. So, the critic's work 108. (c) The idiom ‘spills the beans’ means revealing the secret
is to understand the inner meanings. information.
85. (a) The meaning of the idiom 'put my foot down' is 'to take 109. (c) The idiom ‘A snake in the grass’ means a hidden enemy.
a firm stand'. So, the meaning of the sentence implies 110. (c) ‘Beehive’ means a very busy place.
that where discipline matters, one should take a firm 111. (d) To win laurels means to earn respect and prestige.
stand. 112. (c) Phrase ‘In the Soup’ means in trouble.
86. (d) The idiom 'stood his ground' means 'refuse to yield'. 113. (c) Idiom ‘draw the line’ means to clearly seperate or create
So, as the meaning of the sentence implies, the convict boundaries for two things.
claimed his innocence and refused to yield for the 114. (d) The idiom ‘Cut the Gordian Knot’ means to solve a
blames that were laid upon him. very challenging or daunting problem decisively.
87. (a) The idiom 'with all our might and main' means with 115. (a) The idiom ‘To put in a nut-shell’ means to state
great physical strength; great force. something very concisely.
88. (b) The idiom 'nailed their colours to their mast' means to 116. (d) The idiom ‘To make up one’s mind’ means to come
defiantly display one's opinions and beliefs. Also, to to an opinion or decision.
show one's intention to hold on to those beliefs until 117. (b) The idiom ‘Take French leave’ means a period when
the end. you are absent from work without asking for
89. (b) The idiom 'batten down the hatches' means to prepare permission.
for difficult times. 118. (b) The idiom ‘The gnomes of Zurick’ refers to Swiss
90. (b) The idiom ' she flies off at a tangent' means to pursue a bankers and the power and influence with which
somewhat related or irrelevant course while neglecting they control foreign money.
the main subject. 119. (a) The idiom ‘A sacred cow’ means a person held to be
91. (b) The idiom ' go at equal speed' means to go neck-to- above criticism.
neck. 120. (b) The idiom ‘Shun evil company’ means to avoid or to
92. (b) The idiom ‘throw dust into eyes’ means to confuse or evade from a bad company (Group of People).
mislead somebody to deceive. 121. (a) The idiom A dog’s breakfast means a complete mess.
93. (b) The idiom ‘Maiden speech’ means first speech. 122. (b) The idiom ‘The seamy side of life’ means the most
94. (d) The idiom 'all ears' means listening eagerly and unpleasant or roughest aspect of life.
carefully. 123. (c) Phrase ‘To keep in abeyance’ means a state of
95. (b) The idiom ‘Salad days’ refers to the time of youth, temporary disuse or suspension.
innocence, and inexperience. 124. (d) The idiom ‘To be in a fix’ means in a difficult situation.
96. (a) The idiom ‘Cool about working’ means to be relaxed 125. (d) Idiom ‘break the ice’ means to do something as a means
and having no problem. of reducing or eliminating shyness, awkward tension
97. (a) The idiom 'dragging his feet' means to deal with or unfamiliarity.
something slowly because you do not really want to 126. (c) Idiom ‘wild goose chase’ means a chaotic search for
do it. something that is difficult to find.
Idioms/Phrases 149

127. (b) Idiom ‘Smell a rat’ means to suspect a trick or deceit. 156. (b) Phrase 'Go over' means to examine or look at something
128. (b) ‘A live wire’ means an energetic, lively and active in a careful or detailed way.
person. 157. (d) Idiom ‘Apple of one's eye’ means something or
129. (b) Phrase Pull a fast one- to succeed in an act of deception. someone that one cherishes above all others.
130. (d) Idiom Grease somebody's palmmeans to give someone 158. (d) Idiom ‘Ball is in your court’ means -One needs to take
money to persuade them to do what you want; to bribe some action to keep something going.
someone. 159. (a) Idiom ‘Last straw’ means the final difficulty in a series;
131. (b) Idiom Turn turtle- to turn upside down. the last little burden or problem that causes everything
132. (a) Phrase ‘to put one’s foot down’ means to act firmly or to collapse.
stand firmly. 160. (a) Phrase ‘Back to square one’ means back to where one
133. (a) Idiom ‘Have a foot in the grave’ means to be on the started, with no progress having been made.
verge of death/ to be almost dead.
161. (b) Phrase ‘Burst your bubble’ means giving information
134. (a) Idiom ‘hornet’s nest’ means a dangerous or complicated
to another person that will more likely disappoint them.
situation.
162. (c) Phrase ‘As good as word’ means obedient to one’s
135. (b) Phrase ‘To roll out the red Carpet’ means to welcome
someone with great or elaborate hospitality. promise; dependable in keeping one’s promises.
136. (d) Phrase ‘To have an axe to grind’ means to have a 163. (d) Phrase ‘Off colour’ means slightly unwell.
personal motivation or selfish reason for saying or doing 164. (c) Phrase ‘Take a hike’ means leave or go away (used as
something. an expression of irritation or annoyance).
137. (a) Phrase ‘Cock and bull story’ means a widly exaggerated 165. (a) The idiom ‘pain in the neck’ means ‘very irritating,
or falsified story. aggravating, or obnoxious’.
138. (c) Idiom ‘Shake off’ means: to rid or free oneself from 166. (a) The idiom ‘beat around the bush’ means ‘to avoid
someone or something that one finds upsetting or talking about what is important’.
annoying. 167. (d) The idiom 'in black and white' means 'in written or
139. (a) Idiom ‘Sit on the fence’ means: to not make a decision printed form'. All other options are irrelevant.
when presented with two options or possibilities. 168. (d) The idiom 'under somebody's nose' means 'directly in
140. (d) Idiom ‘Under a cloud’ means viewed with distrust or front of someone'. Hence, option (d) is correct.
thought to be dishonorable. 169. (d) 170. (b) 171. (c)
141 (a) Phrase ‘Pull a long face’ means, to look sad, glum or 172. (c) The idiom 'in the nick of time' means 'only just in time'.
disapproving. 173. (a) The idiom 'To turn over a new leaf' mean 'start to act or
142. (a) The idiom ‘To keep the wolf from door’ means to ward below in a better or more responsible only.
off starvation or financial ruin. 174. (b)
143. (b) If a project or new product has teething problems, it 175. (b) The idiom 'in a long run' means 'eventually'.
has problems in its early stages or when it first becomes 176. (d) The idiom 'bury the hatchet' means 'to forget past
available. quarrels'.
144. (b) Alpha and omega are the first and last letters of the
177. (c) The idiom 'feather in the cap' means 'an achievement, a
greek alphabet. It means ‘from beginning to end’.
success or an honour'.
145. (c) The idiom ‘Throw up the sponge’ means to admit
178. (b) Fed up means annoyed, unhappy or bored.
defeat.
179. (d) ‘To make both ends meet’ means to earn just enough to
146. (c) Phrase ‘Spick and span’ means spotlessly clean.
be able to survive.
147. (b) The idiom “to draw the long bow” means to exaggerate.
180. (b) 'Apples and oranges' have no match, so, the idiom
148. (a) Idiom ‘Ended in a fiasco’ means to end with a failure.
'apples and oranges' means 'different thing'
149. (d) Idiom ‘Sow wild oats’ means to do wild and foolish
181. (c) The idiom 'at the drop of a hat' means 'immediately'.
things.
So, the option no. (c) is the correct option.
150. (b) An outline representing or bounding the shape or form
of something is called ‘contour’. 182. (d) The idiom to take French leave means to go without
151. (d) Idiom 'Head over heels' means to be madly in love. permission; go away without telling anyone. Hence,
152. (d) Phrase 'An iron will' mean a burning determination that option (d) is the right answer.
cannot be stopped or hindered by anything. 183. (c) The idiom ‘a hard nut to crack’ means a difficult problem.
153. (a) Idiom 'Get into a soup' mean be in, or get yourself or 184. (a) The ball is in one's court means to be responsible for
somebody into, trouble or difficulties. further action.
154. (c) Idiom 'Haul over the coals' means to scold, reprimand, 185. (b) Bend over backwards means to go the extra mile to do
or reprove someone severely for an error or mistake. something. Therefore, 'to exert a lot of effort towards
some end' is the correct response.
155. (d) Phrase 'To carry the day' mean to be victorious or
186. (c) Actions speak louder than words means what you do
successful.
reveals the real you.
 150 Idioms/Phrases

187. (c) A Piece of cake is something easy. 215. (b) The idiom ‘to separate the wheat from the chaff’ means
188. (b) Be at a loss for words means not knowing what to say. to distinguish the valuable from the useless. Thus,
189. (d) Want to curl up and die means to "feel terribly ashamed option (b) is correct.
and sorry." 216. (a) Just like the driver of the car controls the car, the idiom
190. (c) Not one’s cup of tea is not according to one’s interest. ‘to be in the driving seat’ means to be in charge or
control of a situation.
191. (a) To cross one’s mind is ‘To think of something’.
192. (b) Sufficient means adequate and its opposite is 217. (a) The idiom, ‘throw caution to the wind’ means ‘to do
inadequate. something dangerous or challenging’.
193. (a) At loggerheads means-to disagree strongly. 218. (d) ‘To pull together ’ means ‘to cooperate’ or ‘work
194. (d) At a stretch means without a stop. together peacefully’.
195. (a) Once and for all means -finally.
196. (d) To twist someone's arm is to persuade someone to do 219. (b) The idiom ‘to cut corners’ means ‘to do something
something. disinterestedly in order to save time and money’. Thus,
197. (c) To call the shots means to have control. option (2) is the right answer.
198. (b) Dry run means-rehearsal of an event.
199. (c) At a snail's pace means very slowly. 220. (d) The idiom ‘call it a day’ is used towards the end of a
200. (a) A dry run means a rehearsal. working day. We use the idiom when we stop working
201. (d) little by little means gradually. on something.
202. (b) give a hand means to assist.
203. (c) Look out means to be careful. 221. (d) ‘Close shave’ means a narrow escape from danger or
204. (b) Call on means visit. disaster.
205. (c) Out for the count: In a deep, insensible sleep or
222. (d) The idiom ‘blue blood’ refers to a person who belongs
unconsciousness.
206. (d) Draw the line means: To set a limit on something. to an elite family. In other words, a person of high
207. (b) “unable to calculate” is the closest in the meaning to birth is called ‘blue blood’.
the given idiom “be hard up” 223. (c) ‘To make the matters worse’ means to further spoil the
208. (b) “say two contradictory statements at the same breathe” situation.
is the closest in meaning to the given idiom.
209. (c) The idiom ‘Like a cakewalk’ means ‘Easy task’. 224. (c) ‘To put heart and soul’ into something means to give
210. (b) The idiom ‘All eyes’ means ‘Watching eagerly’. one’s best. In other words, it means to put in all the
211. (c) ‘look into’ means ‘to investigate’ and ‘look for’ means efforts to accomplish a certain task.
‘to find somebody/something’. The correct sentence 225. (c) The idiom ‘apple-pie order’ means ‘perfect order or
will be – He was looking for his book for the last two
neatness’. Thus, ‘completely arranged’ is the right
hours but couldn’t find it.
212. (d) To ‘hit the nail on the head’ means to do something answer.
exactly in the way as it needs to be done. When someone 226. (c) Loose your touch means: Not being as successful as
hits the nail on the head, s/he is said to have previously.
accomplished the goals and objectives set for the task. 227. (a) At one’s elbow means next to someone.
213. (b) The idiom ‘hit the sack’ means ‘to go to bed’ or to ‘go 228. (c) Blow up is an idiom having meaning: To destroy by an
to sleep’. For example, ‘I’ve been working all day. I’ll explosion. Usage: A police officer was killed when her
now go hit the sack.’ car blew up.
214. (b) ‘To turn over a new leaf’ means to begin improving 229. (d) The idiom 'Zero tolerance' means a policy of not
one’s behaviour or to become a ‘new’ or a better version allowing any violations of a rule or law.
of oneself. 230. (a) The given idiom 'To bridge the gap' means to reduce
differences and reconcile.
 Chapter
10 Speeches/Voices

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 1-5) : In the following questions, a sentence (c) The secret had been disclosed by the agent before it
has been given in Active Voice/Passive Voice. Out of the four was evening
alternatives suggested, select the one which best expresses the (d) The secret was disclosed by the agent before it had
same sentence in Passive/Active Voice. been evening.
7. Surely the lost child must have been found by now.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2010)
(a) Surely, must have found the lost child by now.
1. They have made a film based on this novel.
(a) A film was based on this novel and made. (b) Surely, someone must have found the lost child by now
(b) A film have been made based on this novel (c) Surely, now must have found the lost child
(c) A film, based on this novel, has been made (d) Now must have found the lost child surely.
(d) A film has been based and made on this novel. 8. We serve hot meals till 10.30, guests can order coffee and
2. The people couldn't move me to the hospital and the doctor sandwiches upto 11.30.
operated on me at home. (a) Hot meals are serving till 10.30 : coffee and sandwiches
(a) I couldn't be moved to the hospital and was operated are ordering by guests till 11.30.
on at home by the doctor.
(b) Hot meals are being served till 10.30 : coffee and
(b) I couldn't be moved to the hospital and I had to be
operated on at home. sandwiches are being ordered till 11.30.
(c) I couldn't be moved to the hospital and I was operated (c) Hot meals are served till 10.30, coffee and sandwiches
at home by the doctor. may be ordered till 11.30.
(d) I couldn't be moved to the hospital by the people and (d) Hot meals will be served till 10.30, coffee and
operated on at home. sandwiches will be ordered upto 11.30.
3. Why did he deprive you of the membership? 9. Lie face-down; stretch your arms in front.
(a) Why you were deprived of the membership? (a) You are face down, arms are to be outstretched
(b) Why were you depreived of his membership by him?
(b) You should be lying face down, with arms outstretched.
(c) Why was he deprived of his membership?
(d) Why were you deprived of your membership by him? (c) You should be lying face down; let arms stretch out.
4. The news has been brought to us by him. (d) Let face be down; let arms be stretched out.
(a) He brought us the news 10. The Greeks expected to win the international trophy.
(b) He has brought us the news (a) It was expected that the Greeks would win the
(c) He was brought the news to us international trophy.
(d) We brought the news to him. (b) The international trophy was expected to be won by
5. Not a word was spoken by the criminal in self-defence. the Greeks.
(a) The criminal spoke not a word in self-defence. (c) It was expected that the Greeks will win the international
(b) The criminal in self-defence spoke no word trophy.
(c) The criminal did not speak a word in self-defence (d) It was expected by the Greeks that they would win the
(d) The criminal spoke in self-defence not a word. international trophy.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 6–10): In the following questions, a sentence
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 11-15) : In the following questions, a sentence
has been given in Active Voice/ Passive Voice. Out of the four
alternatives suggested, select the one which best expresses the has been given in Active / Passive Voice. Out of the four
same sentence in Passive/ Active Voice. alternatives suggested, select the one which best expresses the
same sentence in Passive /Active Voice.
(SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2010)
(SSC CHSL 2013)
6. The agent had disclosed the secret before it was evening.
(a) The secret was disclosed by the agent before it was 11. She took the dog for a walk.
evening (a) The dog was took for a walk.
(b) The secret had disclosed by the agent before it had (b) The dog took a walk by her.
been evening (c) The dog was taken for a walk by her.
(d) The dog took her for a walk.
152 Speeches/Voices

12. The waiter filled the glasses with water. (c) “Hey Gangu, are you in your senses now ?” asked
(a) The waiter was filled the glasses with water. Moti.
(d) “Gangu, have you lost your senses ?” asked Moti.
(b) The water were filled in the glasses by waiter.
20. He said that we are all born to die.
(c) The glasses filled with water by the waiter.
(a) He said, “We are all born to die.”
(d) The glasses were filled with water by the waiter. (b) He said, “We have all been born to die.”
13. They will laugh at you (c) He exclaimed, “We were all born to die.”
(a) You will be laughed at by them. (d) He said, “We were all born to die.”
(b) You will have been laughed at by them.
(c) You can be laughed at by them. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 21-22) : In the following questions, a sentence
(d) You may be laughed at by them. has been given in Direct/Indirect speech. Out of the four
14. Trespassers shall be prosecuted. alternatives suggested, select the one which best expresses the
(a) The authorities may prosecute trespassers. same sentence in Indirect/Direct speech and mark.
(b) The authorities might prosecute trespassers. (SSC CHSL 2015)
(c) The authorities can prosecute trespassers. 21. The teacher said to the students, "March quietly to the
(d) The authorities shall prosecute trespassers. ground."
15. He was driving the car so fast that it skidded on the snowy (a) The teacher instructed the students that they should
road. march quietly to the ground,
(a) The car had been driven by him so fast that it skidded (b) The teacher instructed the students that they must
on the snowy road. march quietly to the ground.
(b) The car has been driven by him so fast that it skidded (c) The teacher instructed the students to march quietly
on the snowy road. to the ground.
(c) The car was driven by him so fast that it skidded on
(d) The teacher said to the students that they should
the snowy road.
march quietly to the ground.
(d) The car was being driven by him so fast that it skidded
on the snowy road. 22. The Policeman said to the driver, "Do you have a licence ?"
(a) The policeman asked the driver whether he had a
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 16-20) : In the following questions, a sentence licence.
has been given in Direct / Indirect speech. Out of the four (b) The policemen asked the driver whether he had a
alternatives suggested, select the one which best expresses the licence.
same sentence in Indirect/Direct speech. (c) The policemen asked the driver whether he has a
(SSC CHSL 2013) licence.
16. He said to me, “I grew these carrots myself.” (d) The policemen asked the driver whether he have a
(a) He told me that he had grown those carrots himself. licence.
(b) He told me that he grew those carrots himself. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 23-24): In the following questions, a sentence
(c) He told me I grew these carrots myself. has been given in Active/Passive Voice, Out of the four
(d) He told me that he grew these carrots himself. alternatives suggested, select the one which best expresses the
17. Mrs. Shankar said, “I know what it is to be depressed. same sentence in Passive/Active voice and mark.
(a) Mrs. Shankar is depressed she said.
(SSC CHSL 2015)
(b) Mrs. Shankar said that she was knowing what it was to
be depressed. 23. The boys were making kites.
(c) Mrs. Shankar said that she knew what it was to be (a) Kites were being made by the boys
depressed. (b) Kites are made by the boys
(d) Mrs. Shankar knows what it is to be depressed. (c) The boys had made kites
18. “Who now,” they had asked, “will listen to our troubles and (d) Kites are being made by the boys
protect us from the crocodiles ?” 24. He will not use the computer.
(a) They had wanted to know who will now listen to their (a) The computer will not be used by him.
troubles and protect them from the crocodiles. (b) The use of the computer will not be by him
(b) They wanted to know who will listen to their troubles
(c) The computer he will not use
and protect them from the crocodiles.
(c) They had wanted to know who would listen to their (d) By him the computer will not be used.
troubles and protect them from the crocodiles. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 25-26) : In the following questions, a sentence
(d) They had wanted to know who then would listen to has been given in Direct/Indirect. Out of the four alternatives
their troubles and protect them from the crocodiles. suggested, select the one which best expresses the same sentence
19. Moti asked Gangu whether the latter was in his senses. in Indirect/Direct and mark.
(a) “Gangu, are you in your senses ?” asked Moti.
(b) “Are you senseless, Gangu ?” asked Moti. (SSC CHSL 2015)
Speeches/Voices 153

25. I said to him, "Do you definitely need the suit next week?" (c) Various facial expressions exhibited by each person.
(a) I asked him if he definitely needed the suit the following (d) Various facial expressions were exhibited by each
week. person.
(b) I asked him if he needed the suit the next week. 32. The girls ate a mango yesterday.
(c) I asked him if he definitely need the suit the following (a) A mango is being eaten by the girls yesterday.
week. (b) A mango has been eaten by the girls yesterday.
(d) I asked him if definitely he needed the suit the next (c) A mango is eaten by the girls yesterday.
week. (d) A mango was eaten by the girls yesterday.
26. Meera's mother told her not to forget to buy the milk. 33. Your manners irritate me..
(a) Meera's mother reminded her, "Don't forget to buy the (a) I am being irritated by your manners.
milk". (b) I am irritated by your manners.
(b) Meera's mother said to her, "You must buy the milk". (c) I am irritated by my manners.
(c) Meera was told by her mother "Buy the milk." (d) Manners are irritating me.
(d) Meera's mother said "Remember to buy the milk." 34. The boys laughed at the old man.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 27 & 28): In the following questions, a (a) The old man was being laughed at by the boys.
sentence has been given in Active/ Passive Voice. Out of the four (b) The old man was laughed at by the boys.
alternatives suggested, select the one which best expresses the (c) The old man was laughed by the boys.
same sentence in Passive/Active Voice and mark. (d) The old man was being laughed by the boys.
(SSC CHSL 2015) 35. Ideas are generated by Group discussions.
27. Please close the door. (a) Group discussions have generated ideas.
(a) Please be the door closed by you (b) Group discussions generates ideas.
(b) Let the door be closed by you. (c) Group discussions generated idea.
(c) You please close the door. (d) Group discussions generate ideas.
(d) You close the door yourself. 36. Who is singing such a sweet song ?
28. We must take care of our parents. (a) By whom is such a sweet song sung ?
(a) Our parents will be taken care of by us. (b) By whom is such a sweet song being sung ?
(b) Our parents are taken care of by us. (c) By whom is such a sweet song sang ?
(c) Our parents must be cared for by us. (d) By whom has such a sweet song sung ?
(d) Our parents had been taken care of by us. 37. Please give me your pen and take your seat.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 29-38) : In the following ten Questions, a (a) You are warned to give me your pen and take your seat.
sentence has been given in Active/Passive voice. Out of the four (b) You are ordered to give me your pen and take your seat.
alternatives suggested, select the one which best expresses the (c) Let your pen given me and take your seat.
same sentence in Passive/Active voice and mark. (d) You are requested to give me your pen and take your seat.
(SSC Steno 2013) 38. The prisoner is known to have assaulted the warden earlier
29. Can she write an interesting story ? too.
(a) Can an interesting story be written by her? (a) It is known that the warden has been assaulted by the
prisoner earlier too.
(b) Could an interesting story be written by her?
(b) It is known that the warden has assaulted the prisoner
(c) Can an interesting story be written for her ?
earlier too.
(d) Can an interesting story be written to her?
(c) It is known that the prisoner has assaulted the warden
30. The poet. Blake, wrote many poems for children. earlier too.
(a) Many are the poems written by children for the poet (d) The warden was assaulted by the prisoner earlier too.
Blake.
(b) Children wrote many poems by the poet Blake. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 39-48) : In the following questions, a
(c) Many poems were written for children by the poet. sentence has been given in Direct/Indirect speech. But of the
Blake. four alternatives suggested, select the one which best expresses
(d) Many poems were written by children for the poet. the same sentence in Indirect/Direct speech and mark.
Blake. (SSC Steno 2013)
31. Each person exhibited various facial expressions. 39. I said to my friend, "Can you pick me up after work?"
(a) Various facial expressions were being exhibited by each (a) I asked my friend if he can pick me up after work. '
person. (b) l asked my friend if he could pick me up after work.
(b) Various facial expressions have been used by each (c) I told my friend to pick me up after work.
person. (d) I told my friend if I could pick him up after work.
154 Speeches/Voices

40. Suman said to me, "Did you enjoy the Olympic Games in (c) He said he studied in that college for two years.
London ?" (d) He said he had studied in that college for two years.
(a) Suman asked me if I had enjoyed the Olympic Games 48. Mary said to Simon, "Sharon and Peter are getting engaged
in London. next month."
(b) Suman asked me did I enjoy the Olympic Games in (a) Mary told Simon that Sharon and Peter were getting
London. engaged next month.
(c) Suman asked me if I enjoyed the Olympic Games in (b) Mary told Simon that Sharon and Peter are getting
London. engaged next month.
(d) Suman asked me if I was enjoyed the Olympic Games (c) Mary told Simon that Sharon and Peter will be getting
in London. engaged next month.
41. My friend told me, "This is not a good book to read." (d) Mary told Simon that Sharon and Peter was getting
(a) My friend told me that that will not be a good book to engaged next month.
read.
(b) My friend told me that this was not a good book to DIRECTIONS (Qs. 49-58) : In the following questions, a sentence
read. has been given in Active / Passive Voice. Out of the four
(c) My friend told me that that was not a good book to alternatives suggested, select the one which best expresses the
read. same sentence in Passive / Active Voice and mark.
(d) My friend told me that that is not a good book to read. (SSC Steno 2013)
49. She will bring cakes.
42. Dhanya complained, "I am losing weight steadily."
(a) Cakes will be brought by her
(a) Dhanya complains that she was losing weight
(b) Cakes are to be bought by her
steadily.
(c) Cakes are to be brought by her
(b) Dhanya complained that she was losing weight steadily. (d) Cakes will be bought by her
(c) Dhanya complains that she is losing weight steadily. 50. Promises should be kept.
(d) Dhanya complained that she is losing weight steadily. (a) You should have kept your promises.
43. My mother said, "You have been sleeping for twelve hours." (b) One must keep one's promises.
(a) My mother said that I had been sleeping for twelve (c) You had to keep promises.
hours. (d) Promises should have been kept.
(b) My mother said that she had been sleeping for twelve 51. Give the order.
hours. (a) An order was given by someone.
(c) My mother said that I have been sleeping for twelve (b) Order was given.
hours. (c) Order given.
(d) My mother said that I was sleeping for twelve hours. (d) Let the order be given.
44. Rajan said to Urvashi, "I'm going to Kashmir tomorrow." 52. My neighbour described his history to me.
(a) Rajan said Urvashi I am going to Kashmir tomorrow. (a) His history had been described by my neighbour to
me.
(b) Rajan said to Urvashi that he was going to Kashmir
tomorrow. (b) His history was described to me by my neighbour .
(c) Description of his history to me was done by my
(c) Rajan told to Urvashi he was going to Kashmir the
neighbour.
next day.
(d) My neighbour's history was described to me by
(d) Rajan told Urvashi that he was going to Kashmir the
himself.
next day.
53. Many cities had been destroyed by the invaders in those
45. She said to me, "Have you finished your work ? days.
(a) She asked me if she had finished my work. (a) The invaders destroy many cities in these days.
(b) She asked me if she had finished her work. (b) Many cities were destroyes in those days by invaders
(c) She asked me if I had finished my work. (c) Many invaders destroyed cities in those days.
(d) She asked me if I have finished my work. (d) In those days, the invaders had destroyed many cities.
46. "Turn around," he told her. 54. The Police victimize the innocent commoners.
(a) He asked to her to turn around. (a) The police are victimized by the innocent commoners.
(b) He asked turn around. (b) The innocent commoners victimized the police.
(c) He told her turn around. (c) The innocent commoners are victimized by the police.
(d) He asked her to turn around. (d) No victimization of the innocent commoners.
55. His suggestion was received by me with disdain.
47. He said, "I have been studying in this college for two years."
(a) I disdainly received the suggestion.
(a) He said for two years he studied in that college.
(b) I was received with suggested disdain.
(b) He said that he had been studying in that college for (c) Disdainful suggestion was received by me from him.
two years. (d) I received his suggestion with disdain.
Speeches/Voices 155

56. He offered me all the money at his command. (a) The reporter said that they had been following the
(a) He commanded all the money at his hand to me. matter closely for a month.
(b) All money at his command was given to me. (b) The reporter said that we had been following the matter
(c) I was offered all the money at his command. closely for a month.
(d) I took all his money at his command. (c) The reporter said that they have been following the
57. Bad companions tempted him to drink heavily. matter closely for a month.
(a) He was tempted to drink heavily by bad companions. (d) The reporter said that they has been following the
(b) He had to drink heavily because of his bad companies. matter closely for a month.
(c) He drunk heavily in the bad company of his friends. 64. "What are you doing here?" she asked me.
(d) He succumbed to the temptation of heavy drinking (a) She asked what I was doing here.
due to bad companions. (b) She wants to know what I am doing here.
58. People believed that witches communicated with the devil. (c) She wants to know what I was doing here.
(a) Devils widely believe in communication with people.
(d) She wanted to know what I was doing there.
(b) It was believed that witches communicated with the
devil. 65. The lawyer said to his client, "We will win the case."
(c) Witches communicated with the devil in front of (a) The lawyer told to his client that they would win the
people. case.
(d) Witches and the devil communicated. (b) The lawyer said that the client would win the case.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 59-68) : In the following questions, a sentence (c) The lawyer told the client that they should win the
has been given in Direct / Indirect form. Out of the four alternatives case.
suggested, select the one which best expresses the same sentence (d) The lawyer told the client that they would win the
in Indirect / Direct form and mark. case.
(SSC Steno 2016) 66. The watchman warned the boys not to go deep into the sea.
(a) The watchman said to the boys,"You are not going
59. He said, "I will return tomorrow."
deep into the sea."
(a) He said that he will return tomorrow.
(b) The watchman said,"Boys, don't go deep into the sea.
(b) He said that he would return tomorrow. (c) The watchman said, "Boys didn't go deep into the
(c) He said that he would return the next day. sea.
(d) He said that I would return the next day. (d) The watchman said to the boys, "Why do you go
60. "What a wonderful time we had there!" she exclaimed. deep into the sea.
(a) She exclaimed that she had quite a wonderful time 67. The shopkeeper told me to be kind enough to pay for the
there. tape-recorder in cash.
(b) She exclaimed that she had quite a wonderful time (a) The shopkeeper said to me, "Will you pay for the tape-
there. recorder kindly in cash."
(c) She exclaimed that they had quite a wonderful time (b) The shopkeeper said, "Be kind enough to pay for the
there. tape-recorder in cash."
(d) She exclaimed that they have quite a wonderful time (c) The shopkeeper exclaimed to me, "Be kind enough to
there. pay for the tape-recorder in cash!"
61. The teacher said to the students, " You should obey your (d) The shopkeeper ordered me, "Please be kind enough
parents. You should be of help to them." to pay for the tape recorder in cash.
(a) The teacher advised the students to obey their parents 68. She asked her brother if he could give her some money
and added that they should be of help to them. then.
(b) The teacher commanded the student to obey their (a) She said to her brother, "Could I give you some money
now?"
parents and further added that they should be of help
(b) She said to her brother, "Can you give me some money
to them.
then?"
(c) The teacher requested the student to obey their
(c) She said to her brother, "Can you give me some money
parents and added they should be of help of them. now?"
(d) The teacher advised the students that they shoulds (d) She asked her brother, "Give me some money now."
obey their parents and should be of help to them. 69. In the following question, a sentence has been given in
62. My mother said, "Please go to the shop." Active/Passive voice. Out of the four alternatives suggested,
(a) My mother told me to please go to the shop. select the one which best expresses the same sentence in
(b) My mother requested me to go to the shop. Passive/Active voice. (SSC CGL 2017, Set-1)
(c) My mother requested me going to the shop. An elephant may be helped even by an ant.
(d) My mother asked me to be going to the shop. (a) An ant can even help a elephant.
63. The reporter said,"We have been following the matter (b) An ant may even help a elephant.
closely for a month." (c) Even an ant may help an elephant.
(d) Even an ant ought to help an elephant.
156 Speeches/Voices

70. In the following question, a sentence has been given in He saw him conducting the seminar on personality
Direct/Indirect speech. Out of the four alternatives development.
suggested, select the one which best expresses the same (a) He was seen by me the conduct the seminar on
sentence in Direct/Indirect Speech. (SSC CGL 2017, Set-1) personality development.
"Please don't cry" he said. (b) He was seen conducting the seminar on personality
(a) He begged that I should not cry. development.
(b) He begged me not to cry. (c) He saw the seminar on personality development being
(c) He said to please him and not cry. conducted by him.
(d) He told me to not to cry (d) He saw the seminar on personality development to be
71. In the following question, a sentence has been given in conducted by him.
Active/Passive voice. Out of the four alternatives suggested, 76. In the following question, a sentence has been given in
select the one which best expresses the same sentence in Direct/Indirect speech. Out of the four alternatives
Passive/Active voice. (SSC CGL 2017, Set-2) suggested, select the one which best expresses the same
Ram was singing a beautiful song for his mother. sentence in Indirect/Direct speech. (SSC CGL 2017, Set-4)
(a) A beautiful song was being sung by Ram Rashmi said to me, "Where is the telephone exchange"?
for his mother. (a) Rashmi asked me that where the telephone exchange
(b) A beautiful song was sang Ram for his was.
mother. (b) Rashmi asked me where the telephone exchange was.
(c) A beautiful song was sung by Ram for his (c) Rashmi asked me where the telephone exchange.
mother. (d) Rashmi wanted to know where the teleophone
(d) A beautiful song was sung for his mother exchange was.
by Ram. 77. In the following question, a sentence has been given in
72. In the following question, a sentence has been given in Direct/Indirect speech. Out of the four alternatives
Direct/Indirect speech. Out of the four alternatives suggested, select the one, which best expresses the same
suggested, select the one which best expresses the same sentence in Indirect/Direct speech.
sentence in Indirect/Direct Speech. (SSC CGL 2017, Set-2) Gokul said to Sumit, "Why did not you attend the meeting
Priya advised me not to go the school the next day. yesterday?" (SSC CHSL 2017)
(a) "Don't go to school next day" Priya said to me. (a) Gokul asked Sumit why he did not attend the meeting
(b) "Don't go to school tomorrow" Priya said to me. the day before.
(c) Priya said, "Will you not go to school tomorrow?" (b) Gokul asked Sumit why he had not attended that
(d) Priya told me that, "Don't go to school tomorrow." meeting yesterday.
73. In the following question, a sentence has been given in (c) Gokul asked Sumit why he had not attended the
Active/Passive voice. Out of four alternatives suggested, meeting the day before.
select the one which best expresses the same sentence in (d) Gokul asked Sumit why he did not attend that meeting
Passive/Active voice. (SSC CGL 2017, Set-3) yesterday.
She teaches us English. 78. In the following question, a sentence has been given in
(a) English is being taught to us by her. Active/Passive voice. Out of four alternatives suggested,
(b) We are taught English by her. select the one, which best expresses the same sentence in
(c) English have been taught to us by her. Passive/Active voice. (SSC CHSL 2017)
(d) We had been taught English by her. We shall invite Suresh.
74. In the following questions, a sentence has been given in (a) Suresh would be invited by us.
Direct/Indirect speech. Out of the four alternatives (b) Suresh would have been invited by us.
(c) Suresh will be invited by us.
suggested, select the one which best expresses the same
(d) Suresh will have been invited by us.
sentence in Indirect/Direct speech. (SSC CGL 2017, Set-3)
Nisha said to Swati , "Will you help me in my project just DIRECTIONS (Qs. 79 – 88) : A sentence has been given in Active/
Passive voice. Out of the four given alternatives, select the one
now"?
which best expresses the same sentence in passive/Active Voice.
(a) Nisha told Swati whether she will help her in her project
just now. (SSC Steno 2017)
(b) Nisha asked Swati if she would help her in her project 79. We saw you and him.
just then. (a) You and he were seen by us.
(c) Nisha questioned to Swati that will you help me in my (b) He and you were seen by us.
project just now. (c) You were seen by us with him.
(d) Nisha asked to Swati that will she help her in her work (d) Both of you were seen by us.
just now. 80. Tom painted the entire house.
75. In the following question, a sentence has been given in (a) The entire house was painted by Tom.
Active/Passive voice. Out of the four alternatives suggested, (b) The entire house is painted by Tom.
select the one which best expresses the same sentence in
(c) The entire house were painted by Tom.
passive/Active voice. (SSC CGL 2017, Set-4)
(d) The house is painted by Tom.
Speeches/Voices 157

81. The science class viewed the comet. (c) He said that he had to work hard.
(a) The class viewed the comet. (d) He said I must be working hard.
(b) The comet was viewed by the science class. 91. He said,"My sister is writing letter to my uncle."
(c) The comet is been viewed by the science class. (a) He said that his sister was writing letter to his uncle.
(d) The comet is viewed by the science class. (b) He said that her sister is writing a letter to uncle.
82. The kangaroo carried her baby in her pouch. (c) He told that his sister is writing letter to his uncle.
(a) The baby was carried by the kangaro in her pouch. (d) He said to me that his sister is writing a letter
(b) The kangaroo carried the baby in pouch. 92. He said to me,"I have told you not to touch any electrical
(c) The baby is carried by kangaroo in her pouch. switches with wet hand."
(d) The baby is being carried up by kangaroo in her pouch. (a) He reprimanded me that he had told me not to touch
83. Grandma is knitting the sweater. any electrical switches with wet hand.
(a) The sweater is being knit by grandma. (b) He asked me not to touch any electrical switches with
(b) The sweater was being knit by grandma. wet hand.
(c) Grandma knit the sweater. (c) He told me not to touch any electrical switches with
(d) Grandma knitted the sweater. wet hand.
84. Who teaches you English? (d) He reminded me that he had told me not to touch any
electrical switches with wet hand.
(a) Do you know who teaches you English?
93. He said,"Let us wait for him at the restaurant."
(b) English is taught by who?
(a) He ordered that they should wait for him at the
(c) By whom are you taught English? restaurant.
(d) Who taught you English? (b) He said that they should wait for him at the restaurant
85. Mohita was weaving the basket. (c) He proposed that they should wait for him at the
(a) The basket was woven by Mohita. restaurant.
(b) The basket is woven by Mohita. (d) They should wait for him at the restaurant he ordered.
(c) The basket is being woven by Mohita. 94. He said to Rama,"Come with me."
(d) The basket was being woven by Mohita. (a) He asked Rama to go with him.
86. The hunter shot the deer. (b) He pleaded Rama to go with him.
(a) The deer is shot (c) He said Rama to come with him.
(b) The deer is shot by the hunter (d) Rama come with me he said.
(c) The deer was shot by the hunter
95. He said,"I am going to fetch a cot."
(d) The hunter was shot by the deer
87. Rohan gave the work to Pooja. (a) He requested that he was going to fetch a cot.
(a) The work has given to Pooja by Rohan (b) He will fetch a cot he said.
(b) The work is given to Pooja by Rohan. (c) He said that he was going to fetch a cot.
(c) The work was given to Pooja by Rohan. (d) He will be fetching a cot he said.
(d) The work will be given to Pooja by Rohan 96. Rohit said,"I came here yesterday".
88. Mrs. Sharma invited us to her house party. (a) Rohit said that he went that place
(a) We were invited by Mrs. Sharma to her house party.
(b) Rohit said that he went there yesterday
(b) We are invited by Mrs. Sharma for house party.
(c) We will be invited by Mrs. Sharma for house party. (c) Rohit said that he went there the previous day
(d) We are invited for the house party by Mrs. Sharma. (d) Rohit said that he was there the previous day
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 89– 98) : A sentence has been given in Direct/ 97. Ajay said,"Suman must go tomorrow".
Indirect Speech. Out of the four given alternatives, select the one (a) Ajay said that Suman would have to go the following
which best expresses the same sentence in Indirect/Direct Speech. day.
(SSC Steno 2017) (b) Ajay said that Suman would have to go tomorrow.
89. "What time does the train arrive?" she asked. (c) Ajay said that Suman must go yesterday.
(a) She enquired at what time the train arrived (d) Ajay said that Suman is going tomorrow.
(b) She asked about train 98. Manu said,"I am very busy now".
(c) When will the train arrive she asked
(a) Manu says that he is very busy then.
(d) She said when does the train arrive
90. He said,"I must work hard." (b) Manu said that he is very busy now.
(a) He told him to work hard (c) Manu said that he was very busy then.
(b) He was going to work hard. (d) Manu said that he was very busy now.
158 Speeches/Voices

99. Choose the option that is the passive form of the sentence. (c) The Best Actor award has been won by my brother in
The chief guest gave prizes to the children. the inter-college drama competition.
(SSC CHSL 2018) (d) The Best Actor award was won by my brother in the
(a) The children were being given prizes by the chief inter-college drama competition.
guest. 106. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence.
(b) The children are given prizes by the chief guest. The students said to the teacher. “We have completed our
(c) The children were given prizes by the chief guest. work.” (SSC Steno 2018)
(d) The children was given prizes by the chief guest. (a) The students told the teacher that they have
100. Choose the option that is the indirect form of the sentence. completed the work.
(SSC CHSL 2018) (b) The students asked the teacher if they had to complete
A new student said to me, “Where is the Principal’s office?” the work.
(a) A new student asked me where the Principal’s office is. (c) The students told the teacher that they are completing
(b) A new student asked me where is the Principal’s office. the work.
(c) A new student said to me where the Principal’s office was. (d) The students told the teacher that they had completed
(d) A new student asked me where the Principal’s office was. the work.
101. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence. 107. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence.
They will put away their woollens after the festival of Holi. The teacher says, “The Sun rises in the East.”
(SSC CGL 2018) (SSC Steno 2018)
(a) Their woollens are being put away after the festival of (a) The teacher says that the Sun rises in the East.
Holi. (b) The teacher said that the Sun rises in the East.
(b) Their woollens have been put away after the festival of (c) The teacher says that the Sun rose in the East.
Holi.
(d) The teacher told that the Sun rose in the East.
(c) Their woollens will be put away after the festival of
108. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence.
Holi.
My friend writes a letter to his father. (SSC Steno 2018)
(d) Their woollens are put away after the festival of Holi.
(a) A letter is written by my friend to his father.
102. Select the correct active form of the given sentence.
(b) My friend wrote a letter to his father.
Rudra was laughed at by all his friends when he wore his
(c) A letter was written by my friend to his father.
socks inside-out. (SSC CGL 2018)
(d) A letter is being written by my friend to his father.
(a) If Rudra wears his socks inside-out all his friends will
109. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence.
laugh at him.
Sahil said to Rohit, “I don’t have the car key” (SSC Steno 2018)
(b) When Rudra wore his socks inside-out all his friends
were laughing at him. (a) Sahil told Rohit that he did not have the car key.
(c) All his friends will be laughing at Rudra for wearing his (b) Sahil told Rohit that he don’t have the car key.
socks inside-out. (c) Sahil told Rohit that he was not having the car key.
(d) All his friends laughed at Rudra when he wore his socks (d) Sahil told Rohit that he is not having the car key.
inside-out. 110. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence.
103. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence. His teachers have given him some books.
The children had plucked all the flowers. (SSC Steno 2018) (SSC Steno 2018)
(a) All the flowers has been plucked by the children. (a) Some books are given by his teachers to him.
(b) All the flowers were plucked by the children. (b) His teachers are giving him some books.
(c) All the flowers are plucked by the children. (c) He was given some books by his teachers.
(d) All the flowers had been plucked by the children. (d) Some books have been given to him by his teachers.
104. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence. 111. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence.
The doctor is treating the patient. (SSC Steno 2018) Open the door. (SSC Steno 2018)
(a) The patient is treated by the doctor. (a) The door is opened by me.
(b) The patient is being treated by the doctor. (b) Let the door be opened.
(c) The patient is being treating by the doctor. (c) You should open the door.
(d) The patient has been treated by the doctor. (d) The door was opened by me.
105. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence. 112. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence.
My brother won the Best Actor award in the inter-coliege Someone has stolen my watch. (SSC Steno 2018)
drama competition. (SSC Steno 2018) (a) My watch was stolen by someone.
(a) In the inter-college drama competition my brother won (b) My watch has been stolen by someone.
the Best Actor award. (c) Someone steals my watch.
(b) The Best Actor award is being won by my brother in (d) Someone stole my watch.
the inter-college drama competition.
Speeches/Voices 159

113. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence. (a) Mohan requested Radha to give the books to the
The manager said to his assistant. “You will get a bonus manager.
next month.” (SSC Steno 2018) (b) Mohan is requesting Radha to give the books to the
(a) The manager tells his assistant that he will get a bonus manager.
the following month. (c) Mohan tells Radha to give the books to the manager.
(b) The manager told his assistant that he will be getting a (d) Mohan told Radha that she must give the books to the
bonus the following month. manager.
(c) The manager told his assistant that he would get a 120. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence.
bonus the following month. The boy said, “I am happy to receive the prize.”
(d) The manager told his assistant that he should get a (SSC Steno 2018)
bonus the following month. (a) The boy said that he is happy to receive the prize.
114. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence. (b) The boy said that he was happy receiving the prize.
Who broke the cup? (SSC Steno 2018) (c) The boy said that he was happy to receive the prize.
(a) By whom was the cup broken? (d) The boy said that he was happy to have received the prize.
(b) Was the cup broken by someone? 121. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence.
(c) Who has broken the cup? My friend said, “Can I buy some sweets?”
(d) Was the cup broken by someone? (SSC Steno 2018)
115. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence. (a) My friend asked if he could buy some sweets.
Raj said, “I may buy a new mobile phone tomorrow.” (b) My friend said that he wanted to buy some sweets.
(SSC Steno 2018) (c) My friend requested me to buy some sweets.
(a) Raj said that he may be buying a new mobile phone the (d) My friend said that he wanted to buy some sweets.
next day. 122. Select the passive form of the given sentence.
(b) Raj said that he might buy a new mobile phone the next The manager keeps the work pending. (SSC CGL 2019-20)
day. (a) The work is kept pending by the manager.
(c) Raj told me that he might buy a new mobile phone (b) The work was kept pending by the manager.
tomorrow. (c) The work has been kept pending by the manager.
(d) Raj told me that he would buy a new mobile phone the (d) The work are being kept pending by the manager.
next day. 123. Select the indirect narration of the given sentence.
116. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence. He said to the hotel receptionist, “Can you tell me the tariff
The students will never forget a good teacher. of rooms” ? (SSC CGL 2019-20)
(SSC Steno 2018) (a) He asked the hotel receptionist if he can tell him the
(a) A good teacher has never been forgotten by the students. tariff of rooms.
(b) A good teacher will never be forgotten by the students. (b) He enquired the hotel receptionist if he can tell him the
(c) Good teachers are never forgotten by the students. tariff of rooms.
(d) A good teacher is never forgotten by the students. (c) He asked the hotal receptionist to tell him the tariff of rooms.
117. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence. (d) He asked the hotal receptionist if he could tell him the
Meena said “What a beautiful flower!” (SSC Steno 2018) tariff of rooms.
(a) Meena exclaimed how beautiful the flower was.
124. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in passive
(b) Meena said that she had a beautiful flower. voice.
(c) Meena exclaimed what a beautiful flower it was. Close all the windows. (SSC CGL 2020-21)
(d) Meena exclaimed that it was a very beautiful flower. (a) Can you close all the windows?
118. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence. (b) Let all the windows be closed.
Raju said to his friend. “I lost my book yesterday.” (c) Will you close all the windows?
(SSC Steno 2018) (d) All the windows be closed.
(a) Raju told his friend that he had lost his book the 125. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in direct
previous day. speech.
(b) Raju told his friend that his book may have been lost “Read the instructions before you start making the dish,”
the previous day. Deepa’s mother said to her. (SSC CG 2020-21)
(c) Raju said to his friend that he lost his book the (a) Deepa’s mother told to her to read the instructions
previous day. before you start making the dish.
(d) Raju said to his friend that his book had been lost the (b) Deepa’s mother told her to read the instructions before
previous day. you had made the dish.
119. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence. (c) Deepa’s mother said her to read the instructions before
Mohan said to Radha, “Please give the books to the she start making the dish.
manager.” (SSC Steno 2018) (d) Deepa’s mother told to read the instructions before she
started making the dish.
160 Speeches/Voices

126. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in 132. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in active
reported speech. voice. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
“Our teacher returned from Mumbai last month”. she said. This fact has not been brought to my notice by anybody.
(SSC CHSL 2020-21) (a) My notice has not been brough to this fact.
(b) Nobody has brought this fact to my notice.
(a) She said that their teacher had returned from Mumbai (c) Anybody has not brought this fact to my notice.
the previous month. (d) Nobody brought this fact to my notice.
(b) She said that her teacher had returned from Mumbai 133. Select the option that expresses the gvien sentence in
the previous month. reported speech. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(c) She said that her teacher had returned from Mumbai “What a wonderful ride it was !” said Madhav.
the earlier month. (a) Madhav exclaimed that it was a wonderful ride.
(d) Her teacher returned from Mumbai last month, she said. (b) Madhav explaimed that what a wonderful ride it was.
127. Select the correct passive from the given sentence. (c) Madhav exclamied that what a wonderful ride was it.
(d) Madhav asked was it a wonderful ride.
In the evening we water the plants. (SSC CHSL 2020-21) 134. Select the correct indirect narration of the given sentence.
(a) The plants have been watered in the evening. Savita said, “I’m enjoying my stay in the hills”.
(b) The plant are watered in the evening (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(c) The plants were watered in the evening (a) Savita said that I am enjoying my stay in the hills.
(b) Savita said that I’m going to enjoy my stay in the hills.
(d) The plants will be watered in the evening
(c) Savita said that she was enjoying her stay in the hills.
128. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in (d) Savita said that she had been enjoying her stay in the
reported speech. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) hills.
I said, “I took a lot of precautions after my surgery”. 135. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
(a) I said that I have taken a lot of precautions after my passibe voice. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
surgery. The jury has given the final verdict.
(b) I said that I had taken a lot of precautions after my (a) The final verdict was given by the jury.
surgery. (b) The final verdict is being given by the jury.
(c) I said that I will take a lot of precautions after my (c) The final verdict is given by the jury.
surgery. (d) The final verdict has been given by the jury.
136. Select the correct active voice of the given sentence.
(d) I said that I look a lot of precautions after my surgery.
Online summer camps in different sports have been arranged
129. Select the correct active from of the given sentence. for students by the education ministry.
Unskilled workerrs are being replaced by trained people in (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
this factory. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) (a) The education ministry is arranging online summer
(a) Trained people have replaced unskilled workers in this caps in different sports for students.
factory. (b) By the education ministry in different sports summer
(b) Trained people were replacing unskilled workers in campus have been arranged for students.
this factory. (c) The education ministry has arranged online summer
(c) Trained people are replacing unskilled workders in this campus in different sports for students.
factory. (d) Online summer camps in different sports are going to
(d) Unskilled workers are replacing trained people in this be arranged by the education ministry for students.
137. Select the correct passive voice of the given sentence.
factory.
Ruma plays carrom very well.
130. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
passive voice. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) (a) Carrom is playing very well by Ruma.
When did they find the mistake? (b) Carrom is played very well by Ruma.
(a) When was the mistake founded? (c) Carrom has been palyed very well by Ruma.
(b) When is the mistake found? (d) Carrom was played very well by Ruma.
(c) When has the mistake been found? 138. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in direct
(d) When was the mistake found? speech. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
131. Select the correct active voice of the given sentence. Madam Hooch asked the students what they were waiting
Weren’t you informed about the new policies of hiring? for.
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21) (a) Madam Hooch told the students. “What they were
waiting for?”
(a) Had’t anyone informed you about the new policies of
(b) The students said to Madam hooch, “What are we
hiring? waiting for?”
(b) Was anyone informing you about the new policies of (c) Madam Hooch said to the students. “What you are
hiring? waiting for?”
(c) Didn’t anyone inform you about the new policies of (d) Madam Hooch said to the students, “What are you
hiring? waiting for?”
(d) Wasn’t anyone you about the new policies of hiring?
Speeches/Voices 161

139. Select the correct passive from the given sentences. 145. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in direct
The country is witnessing a severe locust outbreak is speech. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
Rajasthan and Gujarat. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) He advised his friend to loss some weight.
(a) A severe locust outbreak in the country is being (a) He told his friend, “ I may lose some weight.”
witnessed by Rajasthan and Gujarat. (b) He told to his friend. “You must lose some weight”.
(b) A severe locust outbreak in Rajasthan and Gujarat is (c) He told to his friend, “Please lose some weight.”
being witnessed by the country? (d) He told his friend, “You should lose some weight.”
(c) A severe locust outbreak in Rajasthan and Gujarat has 146. Select the correct active voice of the given sentence.
been witnessed by the country. Shouldn’t the brave forntline warriors be honoured by us
(d) A severe locust outbreak in Rajasthan and Gujarat is for their exemplary service? (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
witnessing the country. (a) Shouldn’t we have honoured the brave frontline
140. Select the correct direct form of the given sentence. warriros for their exemplary service?
Anju told her brother that she was going to bake is cake for (b) Shouldn’t we have honouring the brave frontline
him that day. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) warriors for their exemplary service?
(a) Anju said to her borther, “I am going to bake a cake for (c) Shouldn’t we have been honouring the brave frontline
him tomorrow.” for their exemplary service?
(b) Anju said to her brother, “She is going to bake a cake (d) Shouldn’t we honour the brave frontline warriros for
for you today.” their exemplary service?
(c) Anju said to her brother, “I am going to bake a cake for 147. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence.
you today.” (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(d) Anju said to her brother, “She was going to bake a Anna said, “What are you talking about, Mark? How can
cake for him today”. you leave us alont at such a difficult time?”
141. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence. (a) Anna was surprised and asked Mark what he was
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21) talking about. She further asked him how couldleave
I said to Taru, “Be careful when you go out.” them alone at such a difficult time.
(a) I told Taru to be careful when I went out. (b) Anna was in surprise and asking Mark what he was
(b) I told Taru to be careful when she went out. talking about. She was asking him how he could leave
(c) I told Taru be careful when she goes out. them alone at such a difficult time.
(d) I said to Taru be careful when you go out. (c) Anna asked Mark what he is talking about. She further
142. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence. asked him how could he leave them alont at such a
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21) difficult time.
The family was watching Ramayana on the TV. (d) Anna was surprised and asking Mark what was he
(a) Ramayana has been watched by the family on the talking about. She also aksed him how he can leave
TV. them along at such a difficult time.
(b) Ramayana was being watched by the family on the TV. 148. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
(c) Ramayana is being watched by the family on the TV. passive voice.
(d) Ramayana was watching the family on the TV. She handles all tasks efficiently.
143. Select the correct narration of the given sentence. (SSC CGL 2021-22)
I stepped forward and asked the store keeper how much (a) All tasks are being handled efficiently by her.
the mangoes cost. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) (b) All tasks were handled efficiently by her.
(a) He stepped forward and said to the store keeper, “How (c) All tasks have been handled efficiently by her.
much does the mangoes cost? (d) All tasks are handled efficiently by her.
(b) I stepped forward and told to the store keeper, “How 149. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in active
much are the mangoes costing?” voice.
(c) I stepped forward and said to the store keeper, “How All weapons were surrendered by them.
much do the mangoes cost?” (a) They have surrendered all weapons.
(d) I stepped forward and said to the keeper, “How much (b) They surrendered all weapons.
did the mangoes costed?” (c) They had surrendered all weapons.
144. Select the correct direct narration of the given sentence. (d) They are surrendering all weapons.
The group leader told Sara that she had been talking 150. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in direct
nonstop for over three minutes. speech.
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21) He asked me when I had booked the flight tickets.
(a) The group leader told Sara, “She had been talking (SSC CGL 2021-22)
nonstop for over three minutes.” (a) He said to me, “When do you book the flight tickets?”
(b) The leader said to Sara, “You are talking nonstop for (b) He said to me, “When did you book the flight tickets?”
over three minutes.” (c) He said to me, “When are you booking the flight
(c) The group leader said to Sara, “You have been talking tickets?”
nonstop for over three mintes.” (d) He said to me, “When you had book the flight tickets?”
(d) The group leader aksed Sara, “You had been talking 151. Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence.
for three minutes nonstop.” (SSC CGL 2022)
162 Speeches/Voices

She said, “I am in no mood to work now.” (c) The teacher was happy to meet her and asked when did
(a) She said that she has been in no mood to work then. she complete all those.
(b) She said that she was in no mood to work now. (d) The teacher was happy to meet her and asked when had
(c) She said that she was in no mood to work then. she completed all those.
(d) She said that she has been in no mood to work now. 159. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
152. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence. passive voice. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(SSC CGL 2022) Ajit does not help me with my homework.
Manu will tell her later. (a) I am not help by Ajit with my homework.
(a) She will be tell later by Manu. (b) I am not helped by Ajit with my homework.
(b) She will tell later by Manu. (c) I am helped by Ajit with my homework.
(c) She will be told later by Manu. (d) I am help by Ajit with my homework.
(d) She will be tell later. 160. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
153. Select the correct active form of the given sentence. passive voice. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(SSC CGL 2022) Neena will visit Greece in May.
Has the villa been occupied by them? (a) Greece had been visited by Neena in May.
(a) Did they occupied the villa? (b) Greece has been visited by Neena in May.
(b) Had they occupied the villa? (c) Greece will be visited by Neena in May.
(c) Have they occupied the villa? (d) Greece will visit Neena in May.
(d) Do they occupied the villa? 161. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
154. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in indi- active voice. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
rect speech. (SSC Stenographer 2022) By whom was Hindi taught to you?
Ron said to me, “He had his lunch at 2 p.m. yesterday.” (a) By whom were you taught Hindi?
(a) Ron told me that he ate his lunch at 2 p.m. the previous day. (b) Who teaches you Hindi?
(b) Ron told me that he had had his lunch at 2 p.m. the (c) Who taught you Hindi?
previous day. (d) Who were you taught Hindi by?
(c) Ron told me that he had his lunch at 2 p.m. the previous 162. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
day. passive voice. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(d) Ron told me that he had eaten his lunch at 2 p.m. the Throw the jacket.
previous day. (a) Let us throw the jacket
155. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in direct (b) The jacket was thrown by you.
speech. (SSC Stenographer 2022) (c) Let the jacket be thrown.
He told me that I could eat from his plate. (d) The jacket must thrown by you
(a) He said, “ You can eat from my plate.” 163. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in indi-
(b) He said to me, “Can you eat from my plate?” rect speech. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(c) He said, “I can eat from my plate.” The Principal said to the students, “Listen to the
(d) He said to me, “You can eat from my plate. announcement carefully.”
156. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in (a) The Principal ordered the students that listen to the
active voice. (SSC Stenographer 2022) announcement carefully.
Because of his caring nature he is appreciated by all. (b) The Principal told the students that listen to the an-
(a) Because of his caring nature all appreciate him. nouncement carefully.
(b) Because of his caring nature everyone appreciate him. (c) The Principal ordered the students to listen to the an-
(c) Because of his caring nature all will appreciate him. nouncement carefully.
(d) Because of his caring nature all appreciated him. (d) The Principal suggested the students that they should
157. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in listen to the announcement carefully.
indirect speech. (SSC Stenographer 2022) 164. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
The priest said, “Death is inevitable.” passive voice. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(a) The priest said death had been inevitable. Aspirations give us the clarity of our goals.
(b) The priest said that death is inevitable. (a) The clarity of our goals has been given by aspirations.
(c) The priest said that death was inevitable. (b) The clarity is given of our goals by aspirations.
(d) The priest told that death had been inevitable. (c) The clarity of our goals are given by aspirations.
158. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in (d) The clarity of our goals is given by aspirations
indirect speech. (SSC Stenographer 2022) 165. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in pas-
The teacher was happy to meet her and asked, “When did sive voice. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
you complete all these?” People say Shyam is wise and honest.
(a) The teacher was happy to meet her and asked when she (a) It is believed that Shyam is wise and honest.
had completed all those. (b) Let’s say that Shyam is wise and honest.
(b) The teacher was happy to meet her and asked when she (c) Shyam is wise and honest is said by people.
had been completing all those. (d) It is said that Shyam is wise and honest.
Speeches/Voices 163

166. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in pas- (c) The beggar woman said to the Prince what would she
sive voice. (SSC Stenographer 2022) do with so much money.
They were watching a movie on TV when their friends came. (d) The beggar woman asked the Prince what she should
(a) A movie on TV was watching by them when their friends do with so much money
came. 172. Select the correct indirect form of speech for the given sen-
(b) A movie on TV was being watched by them when their tence. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
friends came. Bajrang said, “I went to Chandigarh yesterday.”
(c) When their friends came, a movie on TV was watched (a) Bajrang said that he had gone to Chandigarh the day
by them. before.
(d) A movie on TV is being watched by them when their (b) Bajrang said that he was gone to Chandigarh the day
friend came. before.
167. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in indi- (c) Bajrang said that he gone to Chandigarh the day be-
rect speech. (SSC Stenographer 2022) fore.
Mona said to me, “Are you planning a trip to Disneyland?” (d) Bajrang said that he have gone to Chandigarh the day
(a) Mona enquired of me if I was planning a trip to before.
Disneyland. 173. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in indi-
(b) Mona asked me that was I planning a trip to Disneyland? rect speech. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(c) Mona enquired of me that was I planning a trip to Rohan said, “I will arrive late.”
Disneyland. (a) Rohan says that he is late in his arrival.
(d) Mona asked me if I had been planning a trip to (b) Rohan said that he would arrive late.
Disneyland? (c) Rohan said that I will arrive late.
168. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in pas- (d) Rohan said that he is arriving late
sive voice. (SSC Stenographer 2022) 174. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in
Tigers look after their cubs till they can hunt on their own. passive voice. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(a) Till cubs can hunt on their own, tigers look at them. They will send Madhu away to a boarding school.
(b) Cubs are looked after by tigers till they can hunt on (a) Madhu will be sent away to a boarding school by them.
their own. (b) Madhu will send away to a boarding school by them.
(c) Cubs are looked by tigers till they can hunt on their (c) Madhu shall be sent away to a boarding school by
own. them.
(d) After cubs can hunt on their own, tigers do not look (d) Madhu will have been sent away to a boarding school
them. by them.
169. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in pas- 175. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in indi-
sive voice. (SSC Stenographer 2022) rect speech. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
My mother will bake two dozen cookies for the bake sale. He said to me, “Please pass the salt.”
(a) Two dozen cookies shall be baked by my mother for the (a) He asked for the salt.
bake sale. (b) He requested me to pass the salt.
(b) Two dozen cookies will be baked by my mother for the (c) He requested me that I pass the salt.
bake sale. (d) He advised me that I should pass the salt.
(c) Two dozen cookies will baked by my mother for the 176. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in ac-
bake sale. tive voice. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(d) Two dozen cookies will have been baked by my mother The poor cat was brutally chased by the kids.
for the bake sale. (a) The kids brutally chase the poor cat.
170. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in indi- (b) The kids did brutally chased the poor cat.
rect speech. (SSC Stenographer 2022) (c) The kids were brutally chasing the poor cat.
The child says, “I do not want to go to school.” (d) The kids brutally chased the poor cat.
(a) The child say that I do not want to go to school. 177. Select the correct passive form of the given sentence. The
(b) The child says that I do not want to go to school. tigress was trailing the stag. (SSC CHSL 2023)
(c) The child says that he do not want to go to school. (a) The stag had been trailed by the tigress.
(d) The child says that he does not want to go to school (b) The stag was trailed by the tigress.
171. Select the option that expresses the given sentence in indi- (c) The stag was trailing by the tigress.
rect speech. (SSC Stenographer 2022) (d) The stag was being trailed by the tigress.
The beggar woman said, “What will I do with so much mon- 178. Choose the option that is the correct direct form of the
ey, my dear Prince?” sentence. Shubham said that his father was playing cricket
(a) The beggar woman told the Prince what she would do with him. (SSC CHSL 2023)
with so much money. (a) Shubham said, "My father played cricket with me."
(b) The beggar woman said to the Prince what she could do (b) Shubham said, "My father is playing cricket with me."
with so much money. (c) Shubham said, "My father was playing cricket with me."
(d) Shubham said, "My father had played cricket with me."
164 Speeches/Voices

HINTS & EXPLANATIONS

1. (c) A film, based on this novel, has been made. 20. (a) Omit 'that' from the direct speech.
2. (a) I couldn’t be moved to the hospital and was operated 21. (c) 22. (a) 23. (a) 24. (a) 25. (a)
on at home by the doctor. 26. (a) 27. (b) 28. (c) 29. (a) 30. (c)
3. (d) Why were you deprived of your membership by him? 31. (d) 32. (d) 33. (b) 34. (b) 35. (d)
4. (b) He has brought us the news. 36. (b) 37. (d) 38. (a) 39. (b) 40. (c)
5. (c) The criminal did not speak a word in self-defence. 41. (c) 42. (b) 43. (a) 44. (d) 45. (c)
6. (c) The secret had been disclosed by the agent before it 46. (d) 47. (b) 48. (a) 49. (a) 50. (b)
was evening. 51. (d) 52. (b) 53. (d) 54. (c) 55. (d)
7. (b) Surely, some one must have found the lost child by 56. (c) 57. (a) 58. (b) 59. (c) 60. (c)
now. 61. (a) 62. (b) 63. (a) 64. (d) 65. (d)
8. (c) Hot meals are served till 10.30: coffee and sandwiches 66. (b) 67. (b) 68. (c)
may be ordered till 11.30. 69. (c) Change passive voice into active voice.
9. (d) Let face be down : let arms be stretched out. 70. (b) Change 'said' into 'begged'. Use conjunction 'that'.
Change reported speech into statement speech.
10. (d) It was expected by the Greeks that they would win the 71. (a) 'A beautiful song' has been used as subject in passive
international trophy. voice
11. (c) The sentence is in active voice and to convert it in 72. (b) The given sentence is in reported speech, change it
passive voice the predicate of the sentence becomes into direct speech.
the subject. 73. (b) Use subjective case ‘we’ in passive sentence. Use ‘her’
12. (d) Same as above. The predicate of the sentence has in the objective case.
become the subject of a sentence while converting it 74. (b) Change ‘said to’ into ‘asked; use ‘whether’, write
into passive voice. reported speech in statement form, change ‘now’ into
13. (a) The predicate becomes the subject i.e. You will be then, change pronoun ‘me’ into ‘her’
laughed at by them. 75. (c) Make 'conducting' as 'being conducted in passive
14. (d) For converting this sentence into passive voice and voice.
to give it a logical meaning, the phrase 'the authority' 76. (d) Change 'said to' into 'wanted to know' and change the
tense of the reported speech into 'past tense, write
has to be added.
reported speech in statement form.
15. (d) The sentence is in active voice with past continuous
77. (c) Since, the given sentence is in past tense, it will be
tense in it. When it is converted into passive voice, it
changed to past perfect tense in indirect speech; Gokul
still remains in past continuous tense but with a little
asked Sumit why he had not attended the meeting the
variance due to its grammatical rule. In the sentence
day before.
'was driving the car' gets converted into 'was being
driven' in case of passive voice. 78. (c) The correct sentence in passive voice is:
16. (a) When the sentence is converted from direct speech to Suresh will be invited by us.
indirect speech, the pronoun 'I' is converted to 'he' 79. (a) You and he were seen by us.
80. (a) The entire house was painted by Tom.
and the simple past tense gets itself converted into
81. (b) The comet was viewed by the science class.
past perfect tense.
82. (a) The baby was carried by the kangaroo in her pouch.
17. (c) The pronoun 'I' of the sentence is converted to 'she'
83. (a) The sweater is being knit by grandma.
and the direct speech which is in present tense gets
84. (c) By whom are you taught English?
converted into past tense. 85. (d) The basket was being woven by Mohita.
18. (d) While converting a direct speech into indirect speech 86. (c) The deer was shot by the hunter.
the adverb 'now' is changed to 'then' and the tense of 87. (c) The work was given to Pooja by Rohan.
the sentence also changes with respect to the time 88. (a) We were invited by Mrs Sharma to her house party.
period of the speech. 89. (a) The given statement is in direct speech. Its indirect
19. (a) While converting a sentence from indirect speech to form is - She enquired at what time the train arrived.
direct speech, certain changes have to be made as we 90. (c) The given statement is in direct speech. Its indirect
use inverted commas to mark off the exact words of form is - He said that he had to work hard.
the speaker. And the speech is addressed in first 91. (a) The given statement is in direct speech. Its indirect form
person and second person mode. is - He said that his sister was writing letter to his uncle.
Speeches/Voices 165

92. (d) The given statement is in direct speech. Its indirect 125. (d) We use direct speech when we want to describe what
form is - He reminded me that he had told me not to someone said. When we simply repeat what someone
touch any electrical switches with wet hand.
says, putting the phrase between speech marks. When
93. (c) The given statement is in direct speech. Its indirect
form is - He proposed that they should wait for him at we want to report what someone said without speech
the restaurant. marks and without using the same words, we use indirect
94. (a) The given statement is in direct speech. Its indirect speech. All the other options are grammatically incorrect
form is - He asked Rama to go with him. and thus the answer is option (d).
95. (c) The given statement is in direct speech. Its indirect 126. (a) We use a reporting verb like ‘say’ or ‘tell’. If this verb is
form is - He said that he was going to fetch a cot. in the present tense, its easy. We just put ‘she says’.
96. (c) The given statement is in direct speech. Its indirect
For example: Direct speech: I like ice-cream. Reported
form is - Rohit said that he went there the previous
day speech: she says (that) she likes ice cream. If the
97. (a) The given statement is in direct speech. Its indirect reporting verb is in the past tense, then usually we
form is - Ajay said that Suman would have to go the change the tenses in the reported speech: Direct speech
following day. - I like ice cream. Reported speech: she said (that) she
98. (c) The given statement is in direct speech. Its indirect liked ice cream. Therefore, option A is the correct
form is - Manu said that he was very busy then. response.
99. (c) The correct passive form will be – The children were 127. (b) In passive speech the object of active speech becomes
given prizes by the chief guest.
the subject of passive speech. Option (b) is the correct
100. (d) The correct indirect form of the sentence will be - A
new student asked me where the Principal’s office was. response as it’s in present form.
101. (c) When something is to be done by someone in the 128. (b) We use a reporting verb like say or tell. There are two
main types of reported speech: direct and indirect. Direct
future, we form simple future passive (Affirmative
speech repeats the exact words the person used and
Form) with the construction: Object + will + be + verb3 indirect speech changes the original words of the
(past participle). speaker. Here we have indirect speech options. And
102. (d) To change the sentence into Active voice, the Object option b is the most appropriate option as the tense is
(all his friends) will become subject and subject (Rudra) correct-(had+ past tense verb).
will be object. We also use helping verb of past simple 129. (c) Because the sentence is in present continuous tense,
tense 'was' with V3 form of the main verb. Also, the and because the object of the passive speech becomes
preposition 'at' must be retained with the verb. Rule: the subject of the active speech we choose option c.
Subject + (was /were) + V3 + Other Agents. 130. (d) The passive sentence here has to be in in simple past
103. (d) 104. (b) 105. (d) 106. (d) tense as the active speech is.
107. (a) Here, 'says' will not change into 'said' as the sentence 131. (c) The usage of didn't allows the verb to be in the present
talks about a universal truth. This is a conditional form 'inform' . Which makes the sentence in its present
sentence. form and active speech.
108. (a) 109. (a) 110. (d) 111. (b) 112. (b) 113. (c) 132. (b) The object of the passive speech becomes the subject
of the active speech.
114. (a) 115. (b) 116. (b) 117. (d) 118. (a) 119. (a)
133. (a) Since the indirect speech is being used here, option a
120. (c) 121. (a) best frames the sentence in indirect speech where the
122. (a) The active voice is in present tense and the word ‘work’ subject's speech is not quoted in quotation marks
is singular in this way options (b) and (d) get eliminated. instead 'exclaimed/said that' is being employed.
it is in present simple tense hence, the option (a) is the 134. (c) The sentence is in past continuous tense and also the
right passive structure. indirect narration requires for it to use the second
123. (d) The given reported speech is an interrogative sentence. person pronoun -she and not I.
The changes in indirect speech are: 135. (d) Because the active sentence uses 'has' the passive will
Said to > asked have 'has been' in it.
Conjunction > if 136. (c) The object of the passive voice becomes the subject of
Can > could active voice. Also, the sentence is in past tense.
All these changes are observed in option (d). hence, it 137. (b) The object of active voice becomes the subject of
passive voice. Also the sentence is to be in simple
is the right option. present tense.
124. (b) To change an active voice sentence to a passive voice 138. (d) Direct speech includes the sentence to have quotation
sentence- the object of the active sentence should be marks and the speech to be reported as is. To convert
"what they were waiting for" into direct speech is to
changed into the subject of the passive sentence. Here,
put it this way "what are you waiting for?" The
'windows' is the object of the active sentence and we sentence should be in present form and 'you' is to
convert it into subject of the passive sentence. replace 'they'.
166 Speeches/Voices

139. (b) In passive voice, the subject of the active speech 156. (a) To convert the sentence from passive to active voice,
becomes the object. Also, the sentence is in simple the position of the subject and object should be
present tense. interchanged. Thus, ‘he is appreciated by all’ will
140. (c) Because it's direct speech, it should have the subject change to ‘all appreciate him’. We will delete the helping
as 'I am' and the object 'you'. verb ‘is’ and the preposition ‘by’ to make it into active
141. (b) Indirect form will have the speech marks removed with voice.
the usage of past tense. 157. (b) Using the rules to convert direct speech into indirect
142. (b) The sentence is to be in past continuous tense. speech, we will first remove the quotation marks and
143. (c) 'told to' is incorrect grammar thus we use 'said to', also insert the word ‘that’. Normally, present tense is
for a present tense with plural noun, we use 'do'. converted into past tense to change a sentence into
144. (c) The sentence is to be in present continuous tense thus indirect form but in this case we will not do so because
'have been'. what is written within the quotation marks is a universal
145. (d) 'to' should not come after told. Also, the quotation marks truth. The tense of universal truth statements does not
must include the word 'you' for the object. change. It remains the same.
146. (d) The active speech in this sentence takes present tense 158. (a) When direct speech is converted into indirect speech,
form as the sentence originally is in this tense. simple past changes to past perfect (had+ past participle
147. (a) The sentence is to be in simple past tense. form of the verb) and ‘these’ changes to ‘those’. We
148. (d) The passive voice always uses the past participle form do not use the connector ‘that’ in case of questions
of the main verb irrespective of any tense. Only the and commands.
auxiliary verbs depend upon the sentence given in 159. (b) It is to be noted that the core meaning of the sentence
active voice. The subject of the given should not change when converting from active to
sentence (she),changes into “her” and comes in the passive voice or vice-versa. To convert a sentence from
place of the object (all tasks) and vice versa. Also, as active to passive form, we have to first identify the
the sentence is in the simple present tense, the past subject, verb and object in the sentence. Then, we have
participle form of the main verb (handles) is followed to interchange the position of the subject and the object.
by the adverb ‘efficiently’. Hence, the correct answer We must ensure that the root form of the verb is
is option (d) “all tasks are handled efficiently by her” changed into the past participle form and appropriate
149. (b) The subject of the given sentence (them), changes into changes are made to the pronouns. The passive form
“they” and comes in the place of the object (all weapons) should also have a suitable helping verb and the
and vice versa. . Also, as the sentence is in the past preposition ‘by’ in it. Thus, the correct option is (b).
participle form of the main verb (surrendered) follows 160. (c) The central meaning of the sentence should not change
the new subject, in the simple present tense sentence when converting from active to passive voice or vice-
structure. The auxiliary verb “were” is removed. versa. To convert a sentence from active to passive
150 (b) Reporting verb “asked” changed to “said to” when form, we have to first identify the subject, verb and
converting direct sentence to indirect, “i had booked” object in the sentence. Then, we are supposed to
changes into “did you book” interchange the position of the subject and the object.
151. (c) The given statement is in direct speech. Its indirect form We must ensure that the root form of the verb is
is – She said that she was in no mood to work then. changed into the past participle form and appropriate
152. (c) The given active form is in future indefinite tense. In changes are made to the pronouns. The passive form
passive form, modal + be + v3 is used. The correct should also have a suitable helping verb and the
passive form will be – he will be told later by Manu. preposition ‘by’ in it. Option (c) follows all the rules.
153. (c) The given passive form in present perfect tense. In active 161. (c) The central meaning of the sentence should not change
form, object will become the subject and ‘been’ will be when converting from passive to active voice or vice-
removed. The correct sentence in active form will be – versa. The conversion is made by inter-changing the
Have they occupied the villa? positions of the object and subject in the sentence.
154. (b) In indirect speech, ‘said to’ usually changes to ‘told’, The verb is found in its root form in active voice and
which is followed by ‘that’. Note that the preposition the helping verb and the preposition ‘by’ are not used.
‘to’, is used with ‘said’ and not with the word ‘told’. The pronouns are changed in accordance with the
Then, as the rule goes, past tense is converted to past voice. Option (c) complies with all the rules.
perfect tense (had+ past participle form of the verb) 162. (c) ‘Throw the jacket’ in passive voice will be ‘Let the jacket
following which ‘had’ changes to ‘had had’. Also, be thrown.’ Note that the sentence is in form of a
‘yesterday’ changes to ‘the previous day’ in indirect command. The subject pronoun is implied but not
speech. mentioned. Therefore, we’ll use the word ‘Let’ in the
155. (d) To change the given sentence from indirect speech to beginning to give the sentence a passive voice. The
direct speech, we need to add the quotation marks root form of the verb ‘throw’ changes to the past participle
(double inverted commas) and frame a dialogue. ‘He form ‘thrown’ preceded by the helping verb ‘be’.
told me’ will change to ‘He said to me’ ; the word ‘that’ 163. (c) In the sentence, the Principal instructs the students.
will be omitted; the pronouns ‘I’ and ‘his’ will change So, the right option will be the one that has ‘ordered to’
to ‘You’ and ‘my’ because in the direct speech the person in it. We will not use ‘that’ because we are already
is directly spoken to. using ‘to’ here. The quotation marks will also be
removed in indirect speech.
Speeches/Voices 167

164. (d) The central meaning of the sentence should not change verb and the preposition ‘by’ in it. Option (b) follows
when converting from active to passive voice or vice- all the rules of conversions.
versa. To convert a sentence from active to passive 170. (d) When we convert direct speech into indirect speech,
form, we have to first identify the subject, verb and we remove the double inverted commas. We change
object in the sentence. Then, we have to interchange the pronoun of the reported speech according to the
the position of the subject and the object. The root pronoun of the reporting verb. In the given sentence,
form of the verb changes into the past participle form ‘I do not...’ changes to ‘he does not’ when converted
and appropriate changes are made to the pronouns. into indirect speech.
The passive form should also have a suitable helping 171. (d) Note that when we convert a question into indirect
verb and the preposition ‘by’ in it. Note that Option (c) speech, we remove the question mark and use the word
is incorrect because ‘clarity’ is singular and will take ‘asked’ instead of ‘said’ or ‘told’. Other rules of
the singular form of the verb (is) with it. conversion remain the same.
165. (d) The phrase ‘People say that...’ changes to ‘It is said 172. (a) When a sentence is written in past tense, we use past
that...’ in passive voice. Other rules of conversion remain perfect tense to convert it into indirect speech.
the same. ‘Yesterday’ in direct speech changes to ‘the day before’
166. (b) The central meaning of the sentence should not change in indirect speech.
while converting it from active to passive voice or vice- 173. (b) In indirect speech, we remove the double inverted
versa. To convert a sentence from active to passive commas. We change the pronoun of the reported speech
form, we have to first identify the subject, verb and according to the pronoun of the reporting verb. Thus,
object in the sentence. Then, we have to interchange option (b) is the correct answer.
the position of the subject and the object. The root 174. (a) The main meaning of the sentence should not change
form of the verb changes into the past participle form when converting it from active to passive voice or vice-
and appropriate changes are made to the pronouns. versa. To convert a sentence from active to passive
The passive form should also have a suitable helping form, we have to first identify the subject, verb and
verb and the preposition ‘by’ in it. Option (b) follows object in the sentence. Then, we have to interchange
all the rules of conversion. the position of the subject and the object. The root
167. (a) The indirect speech is written in form of a statement. form of the verb changes into the past participle form
The question mark, exclamation mark etc. in the direct and appropriate changes are made to the pronouns.
speech are removed and suitable verbs are used after The passive form should also have a suitable helping
the subject to retain the meaning of the sentence in verb and the preposition ‘by’ in it. Option (a) meets all
direct speech. In the given sentence, Mona asks a the rules.
question. Here, the correct choice is option (a) 175. (b) Note that the sentence has ‘Please’ in it. To convert it
where in the phrase ‘enquired of me’ is used and instead into indirect speech, we will introduce the term
of ‘that’, ‘if’ is used. Both the words suggest that an requested and remove ‘please’. The term ‘requested’ is
enquiry is being made. Note that the question mark has best followed by the preposition ‘to’. Thus option (b)
been removed, but the phrase ‘enquired of’ in the is the correct answer.
indirect speech helps retain the meaning. 176. (d) The central meaning of the sentence should not change
168. (b) The core meaning of the sentence should not change when converting from passive to active voice or vice-
while converting from active to passive voice or vice- versa. The conversion is made by inter-changing the
versa. To convert a sentence from active to passive positions of the object and subject in the sentence.
form, we have to first identify the subject, verb and The verb is found in its root form in active voice and
object in the sentence. Then, we have to interchange the helping verb and the preposition ‘by’ are not used.
the position of the subject and the object. The root Remember to change the pronouns in accordance with
form of the verb changes into the past participle form the voice. Option (d) follows all the rules.
and appropriate changes are made to the pronouns. 177. (d) The core meaning of the sentence should not change
The passive form should also have a suitable helping while converting it from active to passive voice or
verb and the preposition ‘by’ in it. Option (b) correctly vice-versa. First, identify the subject, verb and object
expresses the given sentence in passive voice. in the sentence and interchange the position of the
169. (b) The central meaning of the sentence should not change subject and the object. In convert into passive voice,
while converting it from active to passive voice or vice- root verb changes into past participle form and
versa. To convert a sentence from active to passive changes are made to the pronouns. A helping verb
form, we have to first identify the subject, verb and and preposition ‘by’ are also employed in passive
object in the sentence. Then, we have to interchange voice.
the position of the subject and the object. The root 178. (b) In direct to indirect conversion, present continuous
form of the verb changes into the past participle form changes to past continuous tense. Thus, according to
and appropriate changes are made to the pronouns. the rules, option (b) is the correct answer.
The passive form should also have a suitable helping
 168 Reading Comprehension

Reading
Chapter
11 Comprehension
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 1-5) : In the following passage, you have 5 5. In recent years, there has been a marked increase in the
questions following the passage. Read the passage carefully number of technical terms in the nomenclature of
and choose the best answer to each question out of the four (a) Farming (b) Fishing
alternatives. (c) Sports (d) Government
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 6-10) : In the following questions, you have
PASSAGE
one brief passage with 5 questions following the passage. Read
Every profession of trade, every art and every science has its the passage carefully and choose the best answer to each
technical vocabulary, the function of which is partly to designate question out of the four alternatives.
things or processes which have no names in ordinary English and
partly to secure greater exactness in nomenclature. Such special In May 1966, The World Health Organisation was authorised to
dialects or jargons are necessary in technical discussion of any initiate a global campaign to eradicate small pox. The goal was to
kind. Being universally understood by the devotees of the particular eradicate the disease in one decade. Because similar projects for
science or art, they have the precision of a mathematical formula. malaria and yellow fever had failed, few believed that smallpox
Besides, they save time, for it is much more economical to name a could actually be eradicated, but eleven years after the initial
process than to describe it. Thousands of these technical terms organisation of the campaign, no cases were reported in the field.
are very properly included in every large dictionary, yet, as a The strategy was not only to provide mass vaccinations,
whole, they are rather on the outskirts of the English language but also to isolate patients with active small-pox in order to contain
the spread of the disease and to break the chain of human
than actually within its borders.
transmission. Rewards for reporting small-pox assisted in
Different occupations, however, differ widely in the character motivating the public to aid health workers. One by one, each
of their special vocabularies. In trades and handicrafts and other small-pox victim was sought out, removed from contact with others
vocations like farming and fishing that have occupied great numbers and treated. At the same time, the entire, village where the victim
of men from remote times, the technical vocabulary is very old. An had lived was vaccinated.
average man now uses these in his own vocabularly. The special Today small pox is no longer a threat to humanity. Routine
dialects of law, medicine, divinity and philosophy have become vaccinations have been stopped worldwide.
familiar to cultivated persons. (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2010)
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2010) 6. Which of the following is the best title for the passage ?
1. Special words used in technical discussion (a) The World Health Organisation
(a) may become part of common speech (b) The Eradication of Small-pox
(b) never last long (c) Small-pox Vaccinations
(c) should resemble mathematical formula (d) Infectious Diseases
(d) should be confined to scientific fields 7. What was the goal of the campaign against small-pox?
2. The writer of this article is (a) To decrease the spread of small-pox worldwide.
(a) a scientist (b) a politician (b) To eliminate small-pox worldwide in ten years.
(c) a linguist (d) a businessman (c) To provide mass vaccinations against small-pox
3. This passage is primarily concerned with worldwide.
(a) various occupations and professions (d) To initiate worldwide projects for small-pox, malaria and
yellow fever at the same time.
(b) technical terminology
8. According to the paragraph what was the strategy used to
(c) scientific undertakings eliminate the spread of small-pox?
(d) a new language (a) Vaccination of the entire village
4. It is true that (b) Treatment of individual victims.
(a) various professions and occupations often interchange (c) Isolation of victims and mass vaccinations
words (d) Extensive reporting of out breaks
(b) there is always a non-technical word that may be 9. Which statement doesn't refer to small-pox?
substituted for the technical word (a) Previous projects had failed.
(c) the average man often uses in his own vocabulary what (b) People are no longer vaccinated for it.
was once technical language not meant for him (c) The World Health Organisation mounted a worldwide
(d) everyone is interested in scientific findings campaign to eradicate the disease.
(d) It was a serious threat.
Reading Comprehension 169

10. It can be inferred that (c) our own opinion is not based on good reason and we
(a) no new cases of small-pox have been reported this year. know this subconsciously
(b) malaria and yellow fever have been eliminated. (d) we are not consciously aware of any reason for our
(c) small-pox victims no longer die when they contract the own opinion
disease 17. "Your own contrary conviction" refers to
(d) small-pox is not transmitted from one person to another. (a) the fact that you feel pity rather than anger
(b) the opinion that two and two are four and that Iceland
DIRECTIONS: In questions no. 11 to 15, you have two brief is a long way from the Equator
passages with 5 questions following each passage. Read the
(c) the opinion that two and two are five and that Iceland is
passages carefully and choose the best answer to each question
on the Equator
out of the four alternatives.
(d) the fact that you know so little about arithmetic or
PASSAGE-I geography
(Question Nos. 11-15) 18. Conviction means
Two years later, in November 1895, he signed his final will. He left (a) persuasion (b) disbelief
the bulk of his fortune, amounting to about £1,75,000 to a trust (c) strong belief (d) ignorance
fund administered by Swedish and Norwegian trustees. The annual 19. The writer says if someone maintains that two and two are
interest shall be awarded as prizes to those persons who during five you feel pity because you
the previous year have rendered the greatest services to mankind. (a) have sympathy
The interest shall be divided into five equal parts– now amounting (b) don't agree with him
to about £8,000 each– one of which shall be awarded to the person (c) want to help the person
who has made the most important discovery or invention in the (d) feel sorry for his ignorance
realm of physics, one to the person who has made the most
20. The second sentence in the passage
important chemical discovery or improvement, one to the person
who has made the most important physiological or medical (a) builds up the argument of the first sentence by restating
discovery, one to the person who has produced the most it from the opposite point of view
outstanding work of literature, idealistic in character, and one to (b) makes the main point which has only been introduced
the person who has done the best work for the brotherhood of by the first sentence
nations, the abolition or reduction of standing armies, as well as (c) simply adds, a further point to the argument already
for the formation or popularization of peace congress. stated in the first sentence
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012) (d) illustrates the point made in the first sentence
11. The said prize is awarded
(a) once in 5 years (b) every year DIRECTIONS : In question no. 21 to 30, you have two brief
(c) once in 4 years (d) once in 2 years passages with 5 questions following each passage. Read the
12. Which is the prize that is referred to in the passage? passages carefully and choose the best answer to each question
(a) Nobel Prize (b) Magsaysay Award out of the four alternatives.
(c) Pulitzer Prize (d) Booker Prize
PASSAGE-I
13. The number of prizes in the field of science are
(a) Four (b) One “People very often complain that poverty is a great evil and that it
(c) Three (d) Five is not possible to be happy unless one has a lot of money. Actually,
14. Total annual prize money amounts to this is not necessarily true. Even a poor man, living in a small hut
(a) £8,000 (b) £1,750,000 with none of the comforts and luxuries of life, may be quite
(c) £350,000 (d) £40,000 contented with his lot and achieve a measure of happiness. On the
15. Prize is awarded for outstanding work in other hand, a very rich man, living in a palace and enjoying
(a) Chemistry (b) Literature everything that money can buy, may still be miserable, if, for example,
(c) Physics (d) All the above he does not enjoy good health or his only son has taken to evil
PASSAGE-II ways. Apart from this, he may have a lot of business worries which
(Question Nos. 16-20) keep him on tenterhooks most of the time. There is a limit to what
If an opinion contrary to your own makes you angry, that is a sign money can buy and there are many things which are necessary for
that you are subconsciously aware of having no good reason for a man’s happiness and which money cannot procure.
thinking, as you do. If someone maintains that two and two are Real happiness is a matter of the right attitude and the
five, or that Iceland is on the Equator, you feel pity rather than capacity of being contented with whatever you have is the most
anger, unless you know so little of arithmetic or geography that important ingredient of this attitude”.
his opinion shakes your own contrary conviction. (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012)
16. If someone else's opinion makes us angry, it means that
21. The phrase “on tenterhooks” means:
(a) we are subconsciously aware of having no good reason
(a) in a state of thoughfulness
for becoming angry
(b) there may be good reasons for his opinion but we are (b) in a state of anxiety
not consciously aware of them (c) in a state of sadness
(d) in a state of forgetfulness
 170 Reading Comprehension

22. It is true that: 28. The word ‘gunk’ in the last line refers:
(a) money alone can give happiness (a) to the waste products deposited by sanitary engineers
(b) money always gives happiness (b) to the debris found in rivers
(c) money seldom gives happiness (c) to unidentifiable chemicals found in water
(d) money alone cannot give happiness (d) to the domestic water supplies
23. A rich man’s life may become miserable if he: 29. Water pollution can only be understood:
(a) in relation to world contamination
(a) has evil son, bad health and business worries
(b) by the whole human race
(b) does not enjoy good health
(c) in context
(c) has business worries
(d) in relation to the number of pesticides that exist
(d) has business worries and his only son has taken to
30. Water contamination has become serious:
evil ways
(a) since water pollution was difficult to assess
24. Which of the following is the most appropriate title to the
(b) since nature has taken a hand in pollution
passage?
(c) since chemists began to use new substances
(a) Poverty, a great evil
(d) since businessmen authorised the use of chemicals.
(b) The key of happiness
(c) Contentment, the key of happiness DIRECTIONS (Qs. 31-40) : In the following questions, you have
(d) Money and contentment two brief passages with 5 questions in each passage. Read the
25. Which of the following statement is true? passages carefully and choose the best answer to each question
(a) Only a poor but contented man can be happy out of the four alternatives.
(b) A poor but contented man can never be happy
(c) A poor but contented man can be happy PASSAGE-I
(d) A poor but contented man is always happy (Question Nos. 31-35)
“Nobody knows my name” is the title of one of James Baldwin’s
PASSAGE- II
celebrated books. Who knows the name of the old man sitting
The problem of water pollution by pesticides can be understood amidst ruins pondering over his hubble-bubble? We do not. It
only in context, as part of the whole to which it belongs - the does not matter. He is there like the North Pole, the Everest and
pollution of the total environment of mankind. The pollution the Alps but with one difference. The North Pole, the Everest
entering our waterways comes from many sources, radioactive and the Alps will be there when he is not there any more. Can we
wastes from reactors, laboratories and hospitals; fallout from really say this? “Dust thou act to dust returneth” was not spoken
nuclear explosions; domestic wastes from cities and towns; of the soul. We do not know whether the old man’s soul will go
chemical wastes from factories. To these is a added a new kind of marching on like John Brown’s. While his body lies mouldering
fallout - the chemical sprays applied to crop lands and gardens, in the grave or becomes ash driven by the wind or is immersed in
forests and fields. Many of the chemical agents in this alarming
water, such speculation is hazardous. A soul’s trip can take one
melange initiate and augment the harmful effects of radiation,
to the treacherous shoals of metaphysics where there is no “yes”
and within the groups of chemicals themselves there are sinister
or “no”. “Who am I?” asked Tagore of the rising sun in the first
and little - understood interactions, transformations and
dawn of his life, he received no answer. “Who am I?” he asked
summations of effect.
Ever since the chemists began to manufacture substances the setting sun in the last twilight of his life. He received no answer.
that nature never invented, the problem of water purification We are no more on solid ground with dust which we can
have become complex and the danger to users of water has feel in our hands, scatter to the wind and wet with water to turn
increased. As we have seen, the production of these synthetic it into mud. For this much is sure, that in the end, when life’s
chemicals in large volume began in the 1940’s. It has now reached ceaseless labour grinds to a halt and man meets death, the brother
such proportion that an appalling deluge of chemical pollution is of sleep, his body buried or burnt, becomes dust. In the form of
daily poured into the nation’s waterways. When inextricably mixed dust he lives, inanimate yet in contact with the animate. He settles
with domestic and other wastes discharged into the same water, on files in endless government almirahs, on manuscripts written
these chemicals sometimes defy detection by the methods in and not published on all shelves, on faces and hands. He becomes
ordinary use by purification plants. Most of them are so complex ubiquitous all pervasive, sometimes sneaking even into
that they cannot be identified. In rivers, a really incredible variety hermetically sealed chambers. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2012)
of pollutants combine to produce deposits that sanitary engineers 31. What is the difference between the old man and the North
can only despairingly refer to as “gunk”. Pole, the Everest and the Alps?
26. All the following words mean ‘chemicals’ except: (a) he ponders over his hubble-bubble while they don’t
(a) sands (b) substances (b) they are known to all while he is known to none
(c) pesticides (d) deposits (c) they remain while he will soon become dust
27. The main argument of paragraph 1 is: (d) they are not as old as he
(a) that there are sinister interaction in the use of chemicals 32. What, according to the passage, happens to a person’s
(b) that there are numerous reasons for contamination of soul after death?
water supplies (a) the soul also dies with the body
(c) that there are many dangers from nuclear fallout (b) the soul continues to live after the body is dead
(d) that pesticides are dangerous (c) the soul certainly becomes dust after death
(d) it is dangerous to guess
Reading Comprehension 171

33. Which of the following statement is true? 40. All the following words mean ‘exact’ except
(a) The rising sun told Tagore who he was (a) precise (b) accurate
(b) The rising sun did not tell Tagore who he was (c) very (d) erect
(c) The rising sun advised Tagore to ask no questions
(d) The rising sun told Tagore that he would become dust DIRECTIONS (Qs. 41-50) : In the following questions, you have
34. What happens to man after he becomes dust? two brief passages with 5 questions in each passage. Read the
(a) he disappears from the world for ever passages carefully and choose the best answer to each question
(b) he appears in the form of man again out of the four alternatives.
(c) he becomes all pervasive as dust PASSAGE-I
(d) he often sneaks into hermetically sealed chambers Stuck with the development dilemma? Stay away from management
35. What figure of speech is used in the expression ‘the brother courses. Seriously, one of the biggest complaints that
of sleep’? organisations have about management courses is that they fail to
(a) Simile (b) Metaphor impact the participants’ on-the-job behaviour. Some management
(c) Oxymoron (d) Irony trainers stress the need for follow-up and reinforcement on the
PASSAGE-II job. Some go so far as briefing the participants’ managers on what
(Question Nos. 36-40) behaviour they should be reinforcing back on the job. Other
To write well, you have to be able to write clearly and logically, include a follow-up training day to review the progress of the
and you cannot do this unless you can think clearly and logically. participants. None of this is really going far enough.
If you cannot do this yet you should train yourself to do it by The real problem is that course promoters view development
taking particular problems and following them through, point by as something which primarily, takes place in a classroom. A course
point, to a solution, without leaving anything out and without is an event and events are, by definition limited in time. When
avoiding any difficulties that you meet. you talk about follow-up after a course, it is seen as a nice idea,
At first you find clear, step-by- step thought very difficult. but not as an essential part of the participants’ development
You may find that your mind is not able to concentrate. Several programme. Any rational, empowered individual should be able
unconnected ideas may occur together. But practice will improve to take what has been learnt in a course and transfer it to the work
your ability to concentrate on a single idea and think about it place - or so the argument goes. Another negative aspect of the
clearly and logically. In order to increase your vocabulary and to course mindset is that, primarily, development is thought to be
improve your style, you should read widely and use a good about skill-acquisition.
dictionary to help you find the exact meanings and correct usages So, it is felt that the distinction between taking the course
of words. and behaving differently in the work place parallels the distinction
Always remember that regular and frequent practice is between skill-acquisition and skill-application. But can such a
necessary if you want to learn to write well. It is no good waiting sharp distinction be maintained? Skills are really acquired only in
until you have an inspiration before you write. Even with the the context of applying them on the job, finding them effective
most famous writers, inspiration is rare. Someone said that writing and, therefore, reinforcing them.
is ninety-nine percent hard work and one percent inspiration, so The problem with courses is that they are events, while
the sooner you get into the habit of disciplining your-self to development is an on-going process which, involves, within a
write, the better. complex environment, continual interaction, regular feedback and
36. To write well, a person must train himself in adjustment. As we tend to equate development with a one-off
(a) dealing with a difficult problem event, it is difficult to get seriously motivated about the follow-
(b) not leaving anything out up. Anyone paying for a course tends to look at follow-up as an
(c) thinking clearly and logically unnecessary and rather costly frill. (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2012)
(d) following a step-by-step approach 41. What is the passage about?
37. Initially, it is difficult to write because (a) personal management (b) development dilemma
(a) a good dictionary is not used (c) management courses (d) course promotors’ attitude
(b) ideas occur without any sequence 42. Which of the following statements is false?
(c) aids to correct writing are not known (a) Some management trainers stress the need for follow-
(d) exact usages of words are not known up and reinforcement on the job
38. According to the passage, writing style can be improved (b) Some suggest a follow-up training day to review the
by progress of the participants
(a) thinking logically (c) Some go to the extent of briefing the participants’
(b) writing clearly managers on what behaviour they should be
(c) undergoing training reinforcing back on the job
(d) reading widely (d) The real problem is that course promoters view
39. Famous writers have achieved success by development as something which does not take place
(a) using their linguistic resources properly during a course.
(b) disciplining their skill 43. The writer’s attitude, as reflected in the passage, is
(c) following only one idea (a) critical (b) ironic
(d) waiting for inspiration (c) sympathetic (d) philosophical
 172 Reading Comprehension

44. The course promoters’ attitude is DIRECTIONS : In question number 51 to 60, you have two
(a) self-righteous (b) indifferent passages with 5 questions in each passage. Read the passages
(c) easy-going (d) unprogressive carefully and choose the best answer to each question out of the
45. The word ‘mindset’ here means four alternatives.
(a) a determined mind
(b) a (fixed) attitude of mind PASSAGE-I
(c) an open mind The World health Organisation is briefly called W.H.O. It is a
(d) mindful specialised agency of the United Nations and was established in 1948.
PASSAGE-II International health workers can be seen working in all kinds
One may look at life, events, society, history, in another way. A way of surroundings in deserts, jungles, mountains, coconut groves,
which might, at a stretch, be described as the Gandhian way, though and rice fields. They help the sick to attain health and the healthy
it may be from times before Mahatma Gandhi came on the scene. The to maintain their health.
Gandhian reaction to all grim poverty, squalor and degradation of the This global health team assists the local health workers in
human being would approximate to effort at self-change and self- stopping the spread of what are called communicable diseases,
improvement, to a regime of living regulated by discipline from within. like cholera. These diseases can spread from one country to
To change society, the individual must first change himself. In this another and so can be a threat to world health.
way of looking at life and society, words too begin to mean differently. W.H.O. assists different national health authorities not only
Revolution, for instance, is a term frequently used, but not always in in controlling diseases but also in preventing them altogether.
the sense it has been in the lexicon of the militant. So also with words Total prevention of diseases is possible in a number of ways.
like peace and struggle. Even society may mean differently, being Everyone knows how people, particularly children, are vaccinated
some kind of organic entity for the militant, and more or less a sum of against one disease or another. Similarly, most people are familiar
individuals for the Gandhian. There is yet another way, which might, with the spraying of houses with poisonous substances which
for want of a better description, be called the mystic. The mystic’s kill disease-carrying insects. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
perspective measures these concerns that transcend political ambition 51. "It is a specialised agency of the United Nations and was
and the dynamism of the reformer, whether he be militant or Gandhian. established in 1948". Here specialised means :
The mystic measures the terror of not knowing the remorseless march (a) made suitable for a particular purpose
of time; he seeks to know what was before birth, what comes after (b) expert
death? The continuous presence of death, of the consciousness of (c) extraordinary
death, sets his priorities and values: militants and Gandhians, kings (d) uncommon
and prophets, must leave all that they have built; all that they have 52. "International health workers can be seen working in all kinds
unbuilt and depart when messengers of the buffalo-riding Yama come of surroundings: in deserts, jungles, mountains, coconout
out of the shadows. Water will to water, dust to dust. Think of groves, and rice fields". Here International means:
impermanence. Everything passes. (a) belonging to the whole world
46. The Gandhian reaction of poverty is (b) drawn from all countries of the world
(a) a total war on poverty (c) believing in cooperation among nations
(b) self-discipline (d) belonging to an organisation which has something to
(c) self-abnegation do with different nations.
(d) a regulated distribution of wealth 53. They help the sick to attain health and the healthy to maintain
47. According to Gandianism, the individual who wants to their health. here they stands for:
change society (a) deserts
(a) should destroy the existing society (b) rice fields
(b) must re-form society (c) international health workers
(c) must change himself (d) jungles
(d) may change society without changing himself 54. "WHO assists different national health authorities not only
48. Who, according to the passage, finds new meaning for words in controlling diseases but also in preventing them
like revolutions, peace and struggle? altogether". The above sentence implies that :
(a) A Gandhian who believes in non-violent revolution (a) W.H.O. assist many others in addition to the national
(b) A militant health authorities
(c) A mystic (b) W.H.O. assists more in preventing diseases than in
(d) A Gandhian who disciplines himself from within controlling them.
49. The expression ‘water will to water, dust to dust’ means (c) W.H.O. assists in controlling diseases only if they have
(a) water and dust can mix well not been prevented.
(b) man will become water after death (d) W.H.O. assists both in controlling diseases and in
(c) man will one day die and become dust preventing them.
(d) man will become dust and water after death 55. "Total prevention of diseases is possible in a number of
50. What does society mean to a Gandhian? ways". The author has given illustrations of :
(a) a sum of individuals (a) only two such ways
(b) an organic entity (b) only one such way
(c) a regime of living regulated by discipline from within (c) more than two such ways
(d) a disciplined social community (d) none of these
Reading Comprehension 173

PASSAGE-II 60. 'All telephone numbers are wrong numbers', because :

Why don't I have a telephone? No because I pretend to be wise or (a) the author always gets wrong calls
pose as unusual. There are two chief reasons: because I don't (b) whenever he tries it always goes wrong.
really like the telephone, and because I find I can still work and (c) he doesn't give much importance to telephone and
play, eat, breathe, and sleep without it. Why don't I like the telepone numbers
telephone? because I think it is a pest and time waster. It may (d) None of the statements given above.
create unnecessary suspense and anxiety, as when you wait for
an expected call, that doesn't come; or irritating delay, as when DIRECTIONS : In question nos. 61 to 70, you have two brief
you keep ringing a number that is always engaged. As for speaking passages with 5 questions in each passage. Read the passages
in a public telephone booth, it seems to me really horrible. you carefully and choose the best answer to each question out of the
would not use it unless you were in a hurry, and because you are four alternatives and mark it by blackening the appropriate
in a hurry, you will find other people waiting before you. When oval [ ].
you do get into the booth, you are half suffocated by the stale, PASSAGE-I
unventilated air, flavored with cheap face powder and chain (Question Nos. 61-65)
smoking; and by the time you have began your conversation Pidgins are languages that are not, acquired as mother tongues
your back is chilled by the cold looks of somebody who is moving and that are used for a restricted set of communicative functions.
about restlessly to make your place. They are formed from a mixture of languages and have a limited
If you have a telephone in your house, you will admit that it vocabulary and a simplified grammar. Pidgins serve as a means
tends to ring when you least want it to ring; when you are asleep, of communication between speakers of mutually unintelligible
or in the middle of a meal or a conversation, or when you are just languages and may become essential, in multilingual areas. A
going out, or when you are in your bath. Are you strong minded creole develops from a pidgin when the pidgin becomes the
enough to ignore it, to say to yourself." Ah well, it will be all the mother tongue of the community. To cope with the consequent
same in hundred years time". You are not. You think there may be expansion of communicative functions, the vocabulary is
some important news or message for you. Have you never rushed increased and the grammar becomes more complex. Where a creole
dropping from the bath, of chewing from the table, or dazed from and the standard variety of English coexist, as in the Carribbean,
bed, only to be told that you are a wrong number? You were told the there is a continuum from the most extreme form of creole to the
truth. In my opinion all telephone numbers are wrong numbers. If, form that is closest to the standard language. Linguists mark off
of course, your telephone rings and you decide not to answer it, the relative positions on the creole continuum as the ‘basilect’
then you will have to listen to an idiotic bell ringing and ringing in (the furthest from the standard language), the ‘mesolect’ and the
what is supposed to be the privacy of your own home. You might ‘acrolet’. In such situations, most creole speakers can vary their
as well buy a bicycle bell and ring it yourself. speech along the continuum and many are also competent in the
56. The author does not have a telephone because : standard English of their country.
(a) he pretends to be wise (SSC CGL 2nd Sit. 2013)
(b) he poses as unusual 61. A pidgin develops in a situation when
(c) he would prefer to do something else (a) Different and mutually unintelligible languages exist side
(d) he thinks that it can create unnecessary suspense and by side
anxiety. (b) A creole becomes the mother tongue of a linguistic
57. He hates speaking in a public telephone booth because : community
(a) it is costlier (c) A language with restricted vocabulary undergoes an
(b) he is suffocated by the stale, unventilated air, flavoured expansion in grammar and vocabulary
with cheap face power and chain-smoking (d) Two similar languages are mixed to create a new
(c) others look at him angrily language.
(d) the other side may not know your number 62. According to the given passage, a pidgin becomes a creole
58. ..............your back is chilled by the cold look of somebody when
means: (a) It ceases to be a means of communication
(a) other look at you angrily (b) It becomes the mother tongue for a new generation of
(b) you feel cold at the back speakers
(c) you feel uneasy because the person next in the queue (c) Its vocabulary undergoes some kind of change
looks at you restlessly
(d) Two or more languages are mixed with an existing
(d) people are very cold.
pidgin
59. 'Ah well, it will be all the same in hundred years time'. This
63. According to the passage, a creole continuum is
sentence means:
(a) A linguistic term for the mixture of more than two
(a) Nothing is going to change even if you don't answer
languages
the telephone bell.
(b) A scale which measures the linguistic competence of
(b) Things have not changed for the past
the speaker.
100 years.
(c) Things will remain the same for 100 years to come. (c) A scale in which the proximity of the creole to the
(d) One should be strong minded. standard language is measured
(d) A record of the continuous history of a creole
64. According to the passage ‘basilect’ means
(a) An impure form of a creole
 174 Reading Comprehension

(b) A form of creole which is furthest from the standard DIRECTIONS (Qs. 71-80) : In these questions, you have a
language passage with 10 questions. Read the passage carefully and
(c) A form of creole which has an extended vocabulary choose the best answer to each question out of the four.
(d) A form of creole which is very close to the standard
language The postmaster first took up his duties in the village of Ulapur.
65. Find out a word in the passage which is opposite in meaning Though the village was a small one, there was an indigo factory
nearby and the proprietor, an Englishman, had managed to get a
to the word - ‘Simplified’
post office established.
(a) Complex
Our postmaster belonged to Calcutta. He felt like a fish out
(b) Expansion
of water in this remote village. His office and living-room were in
(c) Restricted a dark thatched shed, not far from a green, silmy pond,
(d) Consequent surrounded on all sides by a dense growth.
PASSAGE-II The men employed in the indigo factory had no leisure,
(Question Nos. 66-70) moreover they were hardly desirable companions for decent folk.
There were four of us - George and William Samuel Harris, and Nor is a Calcutta boy an adept in the art of associating with
myself, and Montmorency. We were sitting in my room, smoking others. Among strangers, he appears either proud or ill at ease.
and talking about “how bad were - bad from a medical point of At any rate the postmaster had but little company, nor had he
view I mean, of course. much to do.
At times he tried his hand at writing a verse or two. That the
We were all feeling seedy and we were getting quite nervous movement of the leaves and clouds of the sky were enough to fill
about it. Harris said he felt such extraordinary fits of giddiness life with joy - such were the sentiments to which he sought to
come over him at times, that he hardly knew what he was doing give expression. But God knows that the poor fellow would have
and then George said that he had fits of giddiness too, and hardly felt it as the gift of a new life, if some genie of the Arabian Nights
knew what he was doing. With me, it was my liver that was out of had in one night swept away the trees, leaves and all, and replaced
order. I knew it was my liver that was out of order, because I had them with a macadamised road, hiding the clouds from view with
just been reading a patent liver-pill circular, in which were detailed rows of tall houses. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
the various symptoms by which a man could tell when his liver 71. The adjective used to describe the postmaster's living-room
was out of order. I had them all. is
It is a most extraordinary thing, but I never read a patent (a) bright (b) dark
medicine advertisement without being impelled to the conclusion (c) light (d) deep
that I am suffering from the particular disease therein dealth with 72. What does the phrase 'ill at ease' in the passage mean?
in its most virulent form. The diagnosis seems in every case to (a) Forward (b) Disease
correspond exactly with all the sensations that I have ever felt. (c) Comfortable (d) Uneasy
66. The four felt down and out because 73. What does the phrase 'little company' in the passage mean?
(a) the room was too smoky (a) Bad friendship (b) Hardly any friends
(b) they could never read a patent medicine advertisement (c) Small business (d) Business-like
(c) they thought they were ill 74. At times, the postmaster wrote
(d) they had experienced a most extraordinary thing (a) poems (b) novels
67. Whenever the speaker read a liver pill circular (c) short stories (d) dramas
(a) he suffered from an extraordinary surge of giddiness 75. The postmaster wrote on the
(a) beauty of nature
(b) he felt sure that he had a liver disorder
(b) beauty of himself
(c) he felt the urge to smoke
(c) beauty of the weather
(d) All of the above
(d) beauty of the village
68. The author of the above passage seems to be suffering
76. The word 'genie' means
from
(a) monster (b) spirit
(a) fits of morbid depression without real cause
(c) ghost (d) soul
(b) an abnormal anxiety about his health 77. Which factory was situated near the village Ulapur?
(c) melancholia (a) Chemical (b) Rubber
(d) an unnecessarily dark, gloomy and pessimistic attitude (c) Clothes (d) Dyes
to life 78. What does the idiom 'fish out of water' suggest?
69. Harris was troubled by (a) In unfamiliar surroundings
(a) a symptom of vertigo (b) can die any moment
(b) garrulity (c) grasping for breath
(c) tribulation (d) amphibious creature
(d) frailty 79. Find a word in the passage which is the opposite of 'near'.
70. The word which is closest in meaning to virulent is (a) Convenient (b) Unknown
(a) fantastic (b) vital (c) Close (d) Remote
(c) viral (d) hostile
Reading Comprehension 175

80. Find a word in the passage which means 'the owner of a (c) California
business'. (d) Baltimore
(a) Constructor (b) Businessman 88. Which of the following is not true about the Baltimore Oriole?
(c) Entrepreneur (d) Proprietor (a) They feed upside down sometimes.
(b) They may breed with the Bullock’s Oriole.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 81-90) : Read the passage carefully and (c) The Baltimore Oriole is uncommon in the U.S.
choose the best answer to each question out of the four (d) The Baltimore Oriole has a black throat.
alternatives. 89. Where would I probably not find a Baltimore Oriole ?
The stunning Baltimore Oriole is a common summer visitor to (a) High in the trees
eastern and mid western deciduous woodlands, neighbourhoods, (b) In gardens and neighbourhoods
and gardens. Baltimore Orioles winter in the tropics. About 7 inches (c) Deciduous woodlands
(d) The Sahara desert
in length, the male Baltimore Oriole has a black head, throat, back
90. Which of these colours is not found on a Baltimore Oriole?
and wings. Its breast, stomach, and rump are bright orange. It
(a) Purple (b) Orange
also has an orange patch on the top of each wing and white wing (c) White (d) Black
bars. The tail is mostly black with orange fringes. The female is
dull orange throughout. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 91-100): You have a passage with 10
Baltimore Orioles range throughout the eastern and mid questions. Read the passage carefully and choose the best answer
western United States, and can be found as far west as the Dakotas. to each question out of the four alternatives.
At the western edge of their range, Baltimore Orioles may breed PASSAGE
with the Bullock’s Oriole (They were once considered the same (CYBER BOGEYS)
species under the name Northern Oriole). The cyber–world is ultimately ungovernable. This is alarming as
Baltimore Orioles build unusual pouch like nests that hang well as convenient; sometimes, convenient because alarming.
down from branches. They usually nest high in the trees, but Some Indian politicians use this to great advantage. When there
often come down to lower heights, flashing bright orange and is an obvious failure in governance during a crisis they deflect
black feathers to delighted observers Active and acrobatic by attention from th eir own incompetence towards the
nature, Baltimore Orioles may even feed upside down at time. ungovernable. So, having failed to prevent nervous citizens from
Baltimore Orioles eat insects and berries. They can easily be fleeing their cities of work by assuring them of proper protection,
attracted to gardens by nailing orange wedges to tree branches. some national leaders are now busy trying to prove to one another,
Baltirmore Orioles are also known to feed at hummingbird feeders and to panic-prone Indians, that a mischievous neighbour has
and sapsucker wells. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013) been using the internet and social networking sites to spread
81. The other name of Baltimore Oriole was _________ . dangerous rumours. And the Centre's automatic reaction is to
(a) Bullock’s Oriole (b) Baltimore’s Oriole start blocking these sites and begin elaborate and potentially
(c) Northern Oriole (d) Southern Oriole endless negotiations with Google, Twitter and Facebook about
82. The nest of the Baltimore Oriole _________ . access to information. If this is the official idea of prompt action at
(a) is in a tree cavity a time of crisis among communities, then Indians have more reason
(b) stands upon a branch of a tree to fear their protectors than the nebulous mischief-makers of the
(c) hangs from a branch of a tree cyber world. Wasting time gathering proof, blocking vaguely
suspiciopus websites, hurling accusations across the border and
(d) is usually low in the branches
worrying about bilateral relations are ways of keeping busy with
83. Which of the following is the closest in size to a Baltimore
inessentials because one does not quite know what to do about
Oriole ?
the essentials of a difficult situation. Besides, only a fifth of the
(a) The size of a half-scale
245 websites blocked by the Centre mention the people of the
(b) A little more than a half-scale
Northeast or the violence in Assam. And if a few morphed images
(c) A little less than a half-scale and spurious texts can unsettle an entire nation, then there is
(d) A foot ruler
something deeply wrong with the nation and with how it is being
84. The Baltimore Oriole spend the winters in the _______ .
governed. This is what its leaders should be addressig immediately,
(a) Dakotas (b) Carolinas rather than making a wrongheaded display of their powers of
(c) Tropics (d) Deserts censorship.
85. What is the colour of the female Baltimore Oriole ? It is just as absurd, and part of the same syndrome, to try to
(a) Bright Orange (b) Light Orange ban Twitter accounts that parody despatches from the Prime
(c) Dull Orange (d) White Minister's Office. To describe such forms of humour and dissent
86. Which of the following does not attract the Baltimore Oriole? as "misrepresenting" the PMO–as if Twitter would take these
(a) Oranges parodies for genuine despatches from the PMO — makes the
(b) Hummingbird feeders PMO look more ridiculous than its parodists manage to. With
(c) Sapsueker wells the precedent for such action set recently by the chief minister
(d) Sunflower seeds of West Bengal, this is yet another proof that what Bengal thinks
87. The Baltimore Oriole can be found as far west as today India will think tomorrow. Using the cyber–world for flexing
(a) North and South Dakota the wrong muscles is essentially not funny. It might even prove
(b) The Carolinas to be quite dangerously distracting. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2013)
 176 Reading Comprehension

91. According to the passage, the cyber-world is DIRECTIONS (Qs. 101-110): You have two brief passages with
(a) beyond the imagination of people 5 questions following each passage. Read the passages carefully
(b) outside the purview of common people and choose the best answer to each question out of the four
(c) not to be governed alternatives and mark it by blackening the appropriate oval
(d) ungovernable [•].
92. The author is of the opinion that
(a) the centre should start negotiations with Google, Twitter PASSAGE-I
and Facebook (Question Nos. 101-105)
(b) the centre should help the citizens evacuate their city As I stepped out of the train, I felt unusually solitary since I was
(c) the centre should not block the sites the only passenger to alight. I was accustomed to arriving in the
(d) the centre should arrest the guilty summer, when holiday-makers throng coastal resorts and this was
93. Which of the following is closest to the meaning of my first visit when the season was over. My destination was a
'nebulous'? little village which was eight miles by road. It took only a few
(a) confused (b) vague minutes for me to come to the foot of the cliff path. When I reached
(c) iridescent (d) glowing the top I had left all signs of habitation behind me. I was surprised
94. The author's seriousness regarding the situation can best to notice that the sky was already a flame with the sunset. It
be described in the following sentences. Pick the odd one seemed to be getting dark amazingly quickly. I was at a loss to
out. account for the exceptionally early end of daylight since I did not
(a) Our leaders should display their powers of censorship think I had walked unduly slowly. Then I recollected that on
when needed previous visits I had walked in high summer and how it was
(b) If this is the official idea of prompt action at a time of October.
crisis among communities, then Indians have more All at once it was night. The track was grassy and even in
reason to fear their protectors than the nebulous daylight showed up hardly at all. I was terrified of hurtling over
mischief maker of the cyber-world the edge of the cliff to the rocks below. I felt my feet squelching
(c) The politicians deflect attention from their own and sticking in something soggy. Then I bumped into a little clump
incompetence of trees that loomed up in front of me. I climbed up the nearest
trunk and managed to find a tolerabley comfortable fork to sit on.
(d) If a few morphed images and spurious texts can unsettle
The waiting was spent by my attempts to identify the little stirrings
an entire nation, then there is something deeply wrong
and noises of animal life that I could hear. I grew colder and colder
with the nation
and managed to sleep only in uneasy fitful starts. At last when
95. The word 'spurious' means
the moon came up I was on my way again.
(a) genuine (b) authentic
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2014)
(c) substantial (d) fake
101. The writer felt unusually solitary because
96. The author warns us against
(a) not playing false with the citizens (a) he was feeling very lonely without his family.
(b) dangers inherent in the cyber-world (b) he was missing the company of other holiday-makers.
(c) not using the cyber-world judiciously (c) his destination was a little village eight miles away.
(d) not protecting the citizens from dangerous politicians (d) there was no one to meet him.
97. 'Parody' means 102. "I left all signs of habitation behind me." This means that he
(a) twist (b) jeopardize (a) came to a place where there were very few houses.
(c) ridicule (d) imitate (b) was in front of a large collection of cottages.
98. What is the opposite of 'wrong headed'? (c) had come very far from places where people lived.
(a) silly (b) sane (d) had just passed a remote village.
(c) insane (d) insensible 103. It became darker than the writer expected because
99. The passage suggests different ways of keeping the public (a) the nights are shorter in autumn than in summer.
busy with 'inessentials'. Pick the odd one out. (b) the nights are longer in October than mid summer.
(a) By blocking websites which are vaguely suspicious (c) the train arrived later than usual.
(b) By blaming neighbouring countries across the border (d) he had walked unduly slowly.
(c) By turning the attention of the people to violence in 104. The writer found it difficult to keep to the path because of
Assam
(a) the darkness and narrowness of the path.
(d) By getting involved in a discourse on bilateral relations
(b) poor visibility and grassy track.
100. The following is a list of statements made by the author of
the above passage. Pick the odd one out. (c) the darkness and his slow pace.
(a) It is absurd to ban Twitter accounts that parody (d) poor visibility and dew on grass.
despatches from the Prime Minister's Office 105. When he settled himself on the fork of the tree, the writer
(b) Twitter take these parodies for genuine despatches from ___________
the PMO (a) had a sound sleep.
(c) To describe such forms of humour as 'misrepresenting" (b) was disturbed by noises of animals.
the PMO makes the PMO look more ridiculous (c) was too afraid to sleep.
(d) The precedent for such action was set recently by the (d) tried to sleep but without much success.
chief minister of West Bengal
Reading Comprehension 177

PASSAGE-II DIRECTION: (Qs. 111-120): In the following Ten Questions, you

(Question Nos. 106-110) have two passages with 5 questions following each passage.
It is sad that in country after country, progress should become Read the passages carefully and choose the best answer to each
synonymous with an assault on nature. We who are a part of question out of the four alternatives and mark it by blackening
nature and dependent on her for every need, speak constantly the appropriate circle [ ].
about 'exploiting' nature. When the highest mountain in the world
was climbed in 1953, Jawaharlal Nehru objected to the phrase PASSAGE-I
'conquest of Everest' which he thought was arrogant. Is it (Question Nos. 111-115)
surprising that this lack of consideration and the constant need The instinctive, natural way to express anger is to respond
to prove one's superiority should be projected on to our treatment aggressively. Anger is a natural, adaptive response to threats; It
of our fellowmen? I remember Edward Thompson, a British writer inspires powerful, often aggressive, feelings and behaviours,
and a good friend of India, once telling Mr. Gandhi that wildlife which allow us to fight and to defend ourselves when we are
was fast disappearing. Remarked Mr. Gandhi: ‘It is decreasing in attacked. On the other hand, we can't physically lash out at every
the jungles but it is increasing in the towns’ person or object that irritates or annoys us; laws, social norms
On the one hand, the rich look askance at our continuing and common sense place limits on how far our anger can take us.
poverty; on the other they warn us against their own methods. People use a variety of both conscious and unconscious processes
We do not wish to impoverish the environment any further and to deal with their angry feelings. The three main approaches are
yet we cannot forget the grim poverty of large numbers of people. expressing, suppressing and calming. Expressing your angry
feelings in an assertive – not aggressive manner is the healthiest
Are not poverty and need the great polluters? For instance, unless
way to express anger. Being assertive doesn't ' mean being 'pushy
we are in a position to provide employment and purchasing power
or demanding; It means being respectful of yourself and others.
for the daily necessities of the tribal people and those who live in
Anger can be suppressed and then converted or redirected. This
and around our jungles, we cannot prevent them from combing happens when you hold in your anger, stop thinking about it and
the forest for food and livelihood, from poaching and from focus on something positive. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015)
despoiling the vegetation. 111. How does a person naturally express anger?
106. At the beginning of the passage, the writer expresses her (a) By inspiring powerful feelings
opinion that in many countries progress is synonymous (b) By responding aggressively
with (c) By defending oneself
(a) development. (d) By adapting strong behaviour.
(b) utmost care for nature. 112. Which one of the following places limits on how far we can
(c) a balanced treatment of nature. take our anger?
(d) utmost cruelty to nature. (a) Behaviour (b) Feelings
(c) Instinct (d) Law
107. In the passage, the term 'exploiting' nature suggests
113. According to the author, how should people deal with their
(a) regretfulness. anger?
(b) sarcasm. (a) Express it assertively
(c) destructive urge of man. (b) Express it aggressively
(d) greed of man. (c) Expressing consciously
108. Nehru objected to the phrase 'conquest of Everest' since (d) Expressing unconsciously
(a) it carries a war-like connotation. 114. What does the author mean by being assertive?
(b) it sounds pompous and boastful. (a) Being pushy (b) Being demanding
(c) it depicts Everest as a victim. (c) Being respectful (d) Being calm
(d) Everest is unconquerable. 115. How, according to the author, can one suppress anger ?
109. Gandhi's statement 'It is decreasing in the jungles but it is (a) By holding one's anger.
increasing in the towns.!' (b) By thinking about one's anger
(c) By converting anger.
(a) Refers to wild animals' decrease in the jungle.
(d) By redirecting anger.
(b) Refers to flora and fauna.
PASSAGE-II
(c) Refers to man's selfishness.
(Question Nos. 116-120)
(d) Is a satirical comparison of man's callousness to the
animals. The crowd surged forward through the narrow streets of Paris.
110. The writer is of opinion that tribal people can be prevented There was a clatter of shutters being closed hastily by trembling
from combing forest for food hands the citizens of Paris knew that once the fury of the people
was excited there was no telling what they might do. They came to
(a) to provide employment
an old house which had a workshop on the ground floor. A head
(b) to increase purchasing power popped out of the door to see what it was all about "Get him! Get
(c) by deterring them from poaching and despoiling Thimonier! Smash his devilish machines!" yelled the crowd.
vegetation They found the workshop without its owner. M. Thimonier
(d) to provide employment and purchasing power for daily had escaped by the back door. Now the fury of the demonstrators
necessities. turned against the machines that were standing in the shop, ready
 178 Reading Comprehension

to be delivered to buyers. They were systematically broken up 121. The expression "customs and ceremonies" means :
and destroyed – dozens of them. Only when the last wheel and (a) habits and traditions
spindle had "been trampled under foot did the infuriated crowd (b) fairs and festivals
recover their senses. (c) superstitions and formalities
"That is the end of M'Sieur Thimonier and his sewing (d) usual practices and religious rites
machines," they said to one another and went home satisfied. 122. "They are made to secure the property of citizens against
Perhaps now they would find work, for they were all unemployed theft and damage" means that the law :
tailors and seamstresses who believed that their livelihood was (a) Safeguards people's possessions against being stolen
threatened by that new invention. or lost
116. The passage throws light on (b) Initiates process against offenders of law
(a) why inventions should be avoided. (c) helps in recovering the stolen property of the citizens
(b) how a well meant invention can be misunderstood (d) Assists the citizens whose property has been stolen or
destroyed.
(c) what mischief an inventor can do to ordinary people.
123. Which one of the following statement is implied in the
(d) how dangerous an invention can be. passage ?
117. The crowd was protesting against (a) The police hardly succeed in converting bad citizens
(a) the closings of workshops. into good ones.
(b) the misdoings of Thimonier. (b) Criminals, who flout the law, are seldom brought to book
(c) the newly invented sewing machine (c) Peaceful citizens seldom violate the law
(d) Thimonier for keeping the invention a secret (d) The police check the citizens, whether they are good or
118. The aim of the crowd was to bad, from violating the law.
(a) kill Thimonier 124. According to the writer, which one of the following is not
(b) drive Thimonier away the responsibility of the police ?
(c) humiliate Thimonier (a) To check violent activities of citizens.
(b) To maintain peace during extraordinary circumstances.
(d) destroy the sewing machines
(c) To protect the privileges of all citizens
119. The people thought that (d) To ensure peace among citizens by safeguarding
(a) their lives were in danger. individual rights
(b) Thimonier was mad. 125. Which of the following statements is not implied in the passage ?
(c) the sewing machine was dangerous. (a) Law protects those who respect it.
(d) they would be deprived of their livelihood. (b) A criminal is deterred from committing crimes only for
120. Shutters were being closed because the shopkeepers fear of the law.
(a) wanted to attack the crowd. (c) The forces of law help to transform irresponsible citizens
(b) wanted to protect Thimonier. into responsible ones.
(c) feared their shops would be destroyed. (d) Law ensures people's religious and social rights
(d) wanted to support the crowd. absolutely ad unconditionally.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 126-130) : Read the passage carefully
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 121-125): Read the passage carefully and and choose the best answer to each question out of the four
choose the best answer to each question out of the four alternatives alternatives and mark it by blackening the appropriate circle.
and mark it by blackeing the appropriate circle.
Journalists argue over functions of a newspaper. I feel that a
PASSAGE
provincial paper's purpose is not only to present and project the
True, it is the function of the army to maintain law and order in news objectively and imaginatively, but to help its readers to
abnormal times. But in normal times, there is another force that
express themselves more effectively, canalizing their aspirations,
compels citizens to obey laws and to act with due regard to the
making more articulate their demands. A newspaper should reflect
rights of others. The force also protects the lives and properties
the community it serves– warts and all. When the mirror is held to
of law abiding men. Laws are made to secure the personal safety
society it reveals neglect, injustice, ignorance or complacency. It
of its subjects and to prevent murder and crimes of violence.
should help to eradicate them. It would be pretentious to think
They are made to secure the property of the citizens against theft
that a newspaper can change the course of world affairs but at the
and damage and to protect the rights of communities and castes
to carry out their customs and ceremonies, so long as they do not local limit it can exert influence, it can probe, it can help get things
conflict with the rights of others. Now the good citizen, of his own done. The individual's voice must not be stifled. Instead, the
free will obey these laws and he takes care that everything he does readers should be encouraged to express their opinions, fears,
is done with due regard to the rights and well being of others. hopes, and or their grievances on this platform.
But the bad citizen is only restrained from breaking these laws (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015)
by fear of the consequence of his actions. And the necessary steps 126. How can the readers air their grievances ?
to compel the bad citizen to act as a good citizen are taken by this (a) By being complacent.
force. The supreme control of law and order in a State is in the (b) By supporting the local newspaper
hands of a Minister, who is responsible to the State Assembly and (c) By writing to journalists
acts through the Inspector General of Police. (d) By writing to their local newspaper
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2015)
Reading Comprehension 179

127. What is the main purpose of a newspaper? 134. What is meant by “Sentiment” in the context of the given
(a) Project news objectively and imaginatively paragraph?
(b) To present facts in a blunt way (a) Depression (b) Fascination
(c) Exert influence on the individuals (c) Celebration (d) Resentment
(d) Encourage the readers to be pretentious 135. The Pyreolophore was
128. The expression "warts and all" in the passage means : (a) A self-propelled mechanical vehicle
(a) hopes and fears (b) A steam-powered tricycle
(b) the reader's grievances (c) A steam tractor
(c) with no attempt to conceal blemishes and inadequacies (d) The name of the world’s first internal combustion engine
(d) the community's problems
129. How can a newspaper influence local affairs ? DIRECTIONS (Qs. 136-140) : A passage is given with 5 questions
(a) By probing in the ills of society and rallying support for following it. Read the passage carefully and choose the best
change answer to each question out of the four alternatives and click
(b) By encouraging the readers to accept their grievances the button corresponding to it.
(c) By focusing on world affairs
Dyslexia is a perceptual disorder often occurring in persons of
(d) By influencing public opinion through half truths.
130. In this passage the writer highlights the fact that : normal, or even above average intelligence. The reader is unable
(a) A newspaper should reflect the community it serves to perceive correctly what is on a page. Letters and numbers often
(b) A newspaper should only concentrate on local affairs appear reversed: "b" seems to be "d", "quite" is "quiet" and
(c) Journalists differ in their opinion on the function of a "from" is "form. The reader tends to leave out letters or words or
newspaper insert words or letters that are not there. Vowel and consonant
(d) Newspaper can eradicate injustice sounds may be confused. Many dyslexics are left-handed or able
to write with either hand. They often confuse left and right. Learning
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 131-135) : A passage is given with 5 to speak may also be delayed beyond infancy. The condition
questions following it. Read the passage carefully and choose seems to be inherited. It may persist into adulthood. However,
the best answer to each question out of the four alternatives with early recognition and specialized approaches to teaching
and click the button corresponding to it. reading, most dyslexics can learn to read.
The first working steam powered vehicle was designed and most Some researchers believe that latent dyslexia may be
likely built by Ferdinand Verbies, a Flemish member of a Jesuit mission aggravated by the way reading is taught. The modern whole-
in China around 1672. It was a 65 cm long scale-model toy for the word, or look-and-say, method seems to be more of a hindrance to
Chinese Emperor, that was unable to carry a driver or a passenger. It learning for dyslexics than it is for ordinary pupils. The phonetic
is not known if Verbiest’s model was ever built. Nicolas-Joseph method of teaching students to learn letters and sound them out
Cugnot is widely credited with building the first full-scale, self- appears to achieve better reading results. The problem of words
propelled mechanical vehicle or automobile in about 1769, he also that cannot be sounded out such as rough, laugh or through-is
created a steam-powered tricycle. He constructed two steam tractors not solved by phonetics. These words must simply be memorized.
for the French Army, one of which is preserved in the French National However, for children with dyslexia the problem can be
Conservatory of Arts and Crafts. His inventions were however compounded by the failure of parents or teachers to recognize
handicapped by problems of water supply and maintaining steam the condition. This can easily lead to emotional problems for
pressure. In 1801, Richard Trevithick built and demonstrated his dyslexic children, who cannot understand their failure to keep up
Puffing Devil road locomotive, believed by many to be the first with their classmates. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016)
demonstration of a steam-powered road vehicle. It was unable to 136. Dyslexia, often occurring in persons of normal, or even above
maintain sufficient steam pressure for long periods. Sentiment against average intelligence, is a_____
steam-powered road vehicles led to the Locomotive Acts of 1865. In (a) Conceptual disorder
1807 Nicephore Niepce and his brother Claude probably created the (b) Pathological disease
world’s first internal combustion engine which they called (c) Perceptive disorder
Pyreolophore. (SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) (d) Perceptual disorder
131. The first full-scale, working steam powered tricycle was built by: 137. In Dyslexia, letters and figures often appear ____
(a) Verbiest (b) Cugnot (a) Inverted (b) Blurred
(c) Trevithick (d) Niepce (c) Reversed (d) Clustered
132. Cugnot built steam tractors for:
138. People suffering from dyslexia are often _____
(a) The Chinese Emperor
(b) The French Army (a) right handed (b) far sighted
(c) The Jesuit mission (c) ambidextrous (d) only left handed
(d) The French Conservatory 139. Dyslexia may _______
133. The problem with Trevithick’s Puffing Devil was: (a) be noticed during infancy
(a) Its incapability to carry a driver or a passenger (b) last till childhood
(b) With the water supply (c) persist into adulthood
(c) Its inability to maintain steam pressure (d) end when one goes to school
(d) Its combustion engine
 180 Reading Comprehension

140. The problem of perception can be compounded by the failure Research is a detailed study of a subject undertaken on a
of parents and teachers to ____. systematic basis in order to increase the stock of knowledge,
(a) provide treatment including knowledge of man, culture and society, and the use of
(b) recognize the condition this stock of knowledge to devise new applications. It is used to
establish or confirm facts, reaffirm the results of previous work,
(c) correct the child at infancy
solve new or existing problems or develop new theories. To test
(d) understand the child the validity of instruments, procedures or experiments, research
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 141-145) : A passage is given with 5 may replicate elements of prior projects, or the project as a whole.
questions following it. Read the passage carefully and choose The primary purposes of basic research are documentation,
discovery, interpretation or the research and development of
the best answer to each question out of the four alternatives
methods and systems for the advancement of human knowledge.
and click the button corresponding to it. There are several forms of research : scientific, humanities, artistic,
To know language is to be able to speak it; even a child who does economic, social, business, marketing, etc.
not yet attend school can speak his or her language. In order to Academic publishing describes a system that is necessary
speak a language, it is important to listen to it and to read a few in order for academic scholars to review the work and make it
pages in it everyday. A child picks up language and learns to talk available for a wider audience. Most academic work is published
just as (s) he learns to walk. Walking and talking comes naturally in book form. There is also a large body of research that exists in
to a child as it grows. In our country, a child may grow up speaking either a thesis or dissertation form. Many researchers spend their
more than one language, if these languages are spoken in the time applying for grants for research funds. These grants are
home and in the neighbourhood. we call this multilingualism. A necessary not only for researchers to carry out their research,
but also as a source of merit. (SSC SI 2015)
child speaks a language or languages much before (s)he starts
going to school. To know a language then is first of all to be able 146. How many kinds of research are there ?
to speak it as easily and naturally as a three year old child does. (a) There are seven different kinds of research.
Later on, the child will learn to read and write in that language. In (b) There are different kinds of research.
order to read and write in a language, one has to speak it. But it is (c) There is only one kind of research.
possible to speak a language but not able to read or write in it. A (d) There are two different kinds of research.
baby does not speak until it is nine months old but it understands 147. Select the answer which best reflects the view expressed in
a few words at six months of age. It has been listening ever since the passage.
it was born, and even a little before that. So, the first strategy in (a) Grants are not based on merit.
speaking a language is to listen. (b) Researchers never apply for grants.
(SSC CGL 1st Sit. 2016) (c) Research can thrive without grants.
141. One of the activities of a child before it is even born is (d) Documentation is important in research.
__________ . 148. Why is research conducted ?
(a) seeing (b) listening (a) Research is conducted in order to minimise the result
(c) understanding (d) talking of previous works.
142. It is necessary for one to __________ the language before (b) Research is conducted in order to destroy facts.
(s)he writes in that language. (c) Research is conducted in order to develop new
(a) sing (b) spell problems.
(c) speak (d) none of the above (d) Research is conducted in order to verify information.
143. Multi-lingualism means 149. What is research ?
(a) speaking more than one language (a) Research is the destruction of previous works.
(b) speaking only one language (b) Research is the creation of new forms of knowledge.
(c) Research is a process having no practical use.
(c) speaking any language
(d) speech (d) Research is the attempt to limit the growth of
knowledge.
144. A child has been __________ ever since it was born.
150. Choose the most appropriate answer from this passage.
(a) speaking (b) reading
(a) Academic publishing is meant only for academicians.
(c) walking (d) listening
(b) Academic publishing is meant only for professionals.
145. To know a language one must be able to
(c) Academic publishing is meant to benefit the general
(a) Speak it as easily and naturally as a three year old child. public.
(b) Read it well all the time. (d) Academic publishing is meant only for experts.
(c) Write it quickly
(d) Sing in the language DIRECTIONS (Qs. 151-160): You have two brief passages
with 5 questions following each passage. Read the passages
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 146-150) : In questions below, you have a carefully and choose the best answer to each question out of
passage with 5 questions. Read the passage carefully and choose the four alternatives and mark it by blackening the appropriate
the best answer to each question out of the four alternatives oval [·].
and mark it by blackening the appropriate circle [·].
Reading Comprehension 181

PASSAGE I maturing is developing the ability to take increasing responsibility

(Question Nos. 151-155) of our own lives to become increasingly self-directed. The third
Street theatre in India is a well established ancient art form. Despite reason is that many of the new developments in education put a
the proliferation of modern means of entertainment and heavy responsibility on the learners to take a good deal of initiative
communication, street theatre continues to flourish in India. in their own learning. To meet the challenges in today's instructive
Street theatre as a channel of communication has for centuries environment, self-directed learning is most essential.
been propagating reforms by highlighting social, economic and 156. In self-directed learning, an individual
political issues present in the society. Unlike in the olden days, its (a) Takes initiative with or without the help of others
performance is no longer restricted to villages or small localities (b) Is passive and waits for directions
of the city. Today small groups of performers including students, (c) Is helpless and dependent
would stage performances to mobilize public opinion or to help (d) Takes initiative, without an objective
create or raise awareness over a particular issue of public 157. There is need for self-directed learning because
importance. Themes on substance abuse, AIDS awareness, and (a) it is less challenging
domestic violence are some of the areas highlighted by (b) it helps people to learn more things and learn better
contemporary street theatre troupe. Unlike in regular drama street (c) it is a more cost-effective method
drama employ very little props and images. The human body (d) it is a modern method of learning
becomes the main tool in which choreography, mime, dialogues, 158. Which word best describes self-directed learning ?
songs and slogans are extensively used. (a) Active learning (b) Passive learning
Street theatre is one of the most intimate media. Its appeal is (c) Compulsory learning (d) Repulsive learning
to the emotions leading to quick psychological impact on 159. The modern environment according to the author is
audiences. By being local and live they also are able to establish (a) Restrictive (b) Instructive
not only direct contact with the audience but by being cost- (c) Less developed (d) Impracticable
effective and flexible they are popular among all age groups. 160. The synonym of the word "diagnosing" is
(SSC SI 2014) (a) Searching (b) Examining
151. Modern means of entertainment and communication (c) Identifying (d) Complying
_______ street theatre. PASSAGE -1
(a) does affect (b) does not affect (Question Nos. 161-165)
(c) helps popularis (d) helps establish It is not luck but labour that makes good luck, says an American
152. In the olden days, street theatre _______ to villages or author, is ever waiting for something to turn up; labour with keen
small localities of the city. eyes and strong will power turns up something. Luck lies in bed
(a) was restricted (b) was not restricted and wishes the postman would bring him news of a legacy, labour
(c) was opened (d) was entertained turns out at six and with busy pen and ringing hammer lays the
foundation of competence. Luck whines, labour watches, luck
153. Street theatre usually _______ with issues of public
relies upon chance, labour upon character. Luck slips downwards
importance.
to self-indul-gence ; labour strides upwards and aspires to
(a) is distanced (b) is performed independence. The conviction, therefore, is extending that
(c) deals (d) does not deal diligence is the mother of good luck. In other words, a man's
154. Street theatre is _______ to stage. success in life will be proportionate to his efforts, to his industry,
(a) nothing (b) costly to his attention to small things. (SSC SI 2013)
(c) reasonable (d) affordable 161. Which one of the following words in the passage indicates
155. Street theatre creates an/a _______ impact on audiences. that the writer does not ultimately reject the element of luck?
(a) intimate (b) emotional (a) 'Luck whines'
(c) mystical (d) physical (b) 'Diligence is the mother of good luck'
(c) Luck ..... wishes the postman would bring him news'.
PASSAGE-II (d) Luck ..... .is ever waiting.'
(Question Nos. 156-160) 162. Which pair of words means the same thing?
Self directed learning, in its broadest meaning, describes a process (a) Labour and industry
in which individuals take the initiative with or without the help of (b) Industry and legacy
others, in diagnosing their learning needs formulating learning (c) Diligence and legacy
goals, identifying resources for learning, choosing and (d) Legacy and labour
implementing learning strategies and evaluating learning 163. Which one of the following statements sums up the meaning
outcomes. Thus, it is important to attain new knowledge easily of the passage?
and skillfully for the rest of his or her life. (a) Luck waits and complains without working while labour
What is the need for self directed learning? One reason is achieves success although it complains.
that there is convincing evidence that people, who take the initiative (b) Luck is self indulgent, but labour is selfless.
in learning, learn more things and learn better than people who sit (c) Luck often ends in defeat but labour produces luck.
at the feet of teachers passively waiting to be taught. The second (d) Luck waits without exertion, but labour exerts without
reason is that self-directed learning is more in tune with our natural waiting.
processes of psychological development; an essential aspect of
 182 Reading Comprehension

164. Labour turns out at six and with busy pen and ringing hammer 170. Non-violence, according to the writer, means:
lays the foundation of competence. What does this statement (a) violence without the evil motives.
mean? (b) giving in to the tyranny of the powerful
(a) Labour lays the foundation of the building. (c) accepting violence as a fact of life.
(b) The writer and the labourer are the true eyes of the (d) None of the above.
society.
(c) There is no worker who works so hard as the labourer DIRECTIONS (Qs. 171-175) : You have a brief passage with
who begins his day at six in the morning. 5 questions following the passage. Read the passage carefully
(d) Hardwork of all kinds makes people different. and choose the best answer to each question out of the four
165. Which one of the statements is true about the passage? alternatives and mark it by blackening the appropriate oval
(a) Success depends only on hardluck. [ ].
(b) Expectation of good luck always meets with Freedom has assuredly given us a new status and new
disappoinment. opportunities. But it also implies that we should discard
(c) Success is exactly proportionate to hard work. selfishness, laziness and all narrowness of outlook. Our freedom
(d) Luck is neccessary for success. suggests toil and creation of new values for old ones. We should
PASSAGE-II so discipline ourselves as to be able to discharge our new
(Question Nos. 166-170) responsibilities satisfactorily. If there is any one thing that needs
Violence has played a great part in the world's history. It is today to be stressed more, than any other in the new set-up, it is that we
playing an equally important part and probably it will continue to should put into action our full, capacity, each one of us in
do so for a considerable time. It is impossibe to ignore the productive effort - each one of us in his own sphere, however
importance of violence in the past and present. To do so is to humble. Work, unceasing work, should now be our watch-word.
ignore life. Yet violence is undoubtedly bad and brings an Work is wealth, and service is happiness. Nothing else is. The
unending trail of evil consequences with it. And worse even than greatest crime in India today is idleness. If we root out idleness,
violence are the motives of hatred, cruelty, revenge and pun- all our difficulties, including even conflicts, will gradually
ishment which very often accompany violence. Indeed, violence disappear. (SSC CHSL 2013)
is bad, not intrinsically, but because of these motives that go with 171. Anyone can free himself from the clutches of difficulties, if he
it. There can be violence without these motives; there can be (a) eliminates narrow outlook
violence for a good object as well as for an evil object. But it is (b) fulfils his responsibilities
extremely difficult to separate violence from these motives, and (c) discards idleness
therefore, it is desirable to avoid as far as possible. (d) discharges his obligations
In avoiding it, however, someone can not accept a negative 172. What has freedom undeniably offered to the citizens of India ?
attitude of submitting to bad and far greater evils. Submission to (a) New opportunities
violence or the acceptance of an unjust regime based on violence (b) New outlook
is against the spirit of non-violence. The non-violent method, in (c) New responsibilities
order to justify itself, must be dynamic and capable of changing (d) New values
such a regime of social order. 173. One thing needs to be stressed more than anything else in
166. The word 'dynamic' in the concluding line of the passage this new set-up. It is that people should
means: (a) discard narrowness of outlook
(b) discipline themselves suitably
(a) active
(c) work to their full capacity
(b) energetic
(d) substitute old values with new ones
(c) capable of change and progress
174. _______ Work should be the motto of our citizens.
(d) all of the above
(a) Resourceful (b) Incessant
167. Which of the following statements is incorrect?
(c) Productive (d) Ingenious
(a) Only violence can be used against violence.
175. Nothing else can give us joy except ________.
(b) Violence is not inherenty ill (a) service (b) idleness
(c) Violence is a historically accepted fact. (c) wealth (d) freedom
(d) Violence can not be ignored.
168. 'Violence without these motives' is possible only in : DIRECTIONS (Qs. 176-180) : Read the passage carefully and
(a) practice (b) reality choose the best answer to each question, out of the four
(c) dream (d) theory alternatives.
169. 'Indeed, violence is bad, not intrinsically, but because of Long ago in Mongolia there lived an emperor who feared growing
these motives that go with it'. old. One day, he saw an old man in the street. Upset at being
This suggests: reminded that someday, he too, would age, he ordered all the old
(a) Violence is basically good. people to leave his land.
(b) Violence is bad only when it is associated with certain One day, a violent storm swept the kingdom. Nothing was
motives. safe from its fury. It roared into the palace and blew away the
(c) Violence is bad because the people who exercise it are emperor’s belongings, including his priceless golden pitcher.
bad. When the storm ended, the emperor ordered that the pitcher be
(d) Violence is basically bad. found and brought back to him.
Reading Comprehension 183

People went in search of the pitcher. They saw it in a lake 181. What does Ms. Gervis say is a big mystery?
nearby. But no matter who tried, no one could get a grip on the (a) How the robber got in
pitcher. All they got was a handful of water. Yet it could be plainly (b) How the robber got in and out
seen, glittering and just below the water’s surface. (c) How the robber got out
(SSC CHSL 2013) (d) How the robber stole
176. The people saw the golden pitcher 182. What was stolen?
(a) in a river nearby (a) Crystal (b) Money
(b) in a lake nearby (c) Cakes (d) Jewellery
(c) in a pit nearby 183. Why does the detective say, "I must solve this case
(d) inside the palace immediately?"
177. The emperor’s orders were that all the (a) Because Ms. Gervis is scared
(a) children should leave his land (b) Becuase Ms. Gervis is crying
(b) old men should leave his land (c) Because Ms. Gervis is worried about who stole from
(c) old men should live in his land her house
(d) young men should stay in his land (d) Because Ms. Gervis says she won't bake cakes again
178. What did the people who went to bring the pitcher get? 184. What does the expression 'her hands are shaking' mean
(a) Nothing at all here?
(b) A handful of water (a) Ms. Gervis is shivering with fever
(c) A handful of air (b) Ms. Gervis is shivering with wonder
(d) The pitcher’s handle (c) Ms. Gervis is shivering with cold
179. The emperor feared (d) Ms. Gervis is shivering with fear
(a) getting old (b) getting young 185. Why does the detective say that the robber did not come
(c) getting weak (d) getting ill through the front door?
180. The emperor was upset to see the old man because (a) The latch was not opened
(a) it reminded him of his grandfather (b) There was no doorbell
(b) it reminded him that he might fall ill (c) There was no lock
(c) it reminded him that he would grow old too. (d) There were no scratches
(d) it reminded him that he had to colour his hair.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 186-190) : Read the passage carefully and
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 181-185) : In question, you have a brief passage choose the best answer to each question out of the four alternatives
with 5 questions. Read the passage carefully and choose the and mark it by blackening the appropriate circle [·].
best answer to each questions out of the four alternatives and
mark it by blackening the appropriate oval [ ]. (SSC Stenographer 2016)
Like watering a plant, we grow our friendships [and all our relationships)
"Something is very wrong. "says the detective. "I know!" says by running them. Friendships need the same attention as other
Ms. Gervis. "It is wrong that someone has stolen from me!" The relationships. If they are to continue. These relationships can be
detective looks around Ms. Gervis' apartment. "That is not what delightfully non-judgemental, supportive, understanding and fun.
I am talking about, ma'am. What is wrong is that I do not understand Sometimes a friendship can bring out the positive side that
how the robber got in and out." Ms. Gervis and the detective you never show in any other relationship. This may be because
stand in silence. Ms. Gervis' eyes are full of tears. Her hands are the pressure of playing a 'role' (daughter, partner or child) is
shaking. "The robber did not come through the window," says removed. With a friend you are to be yourself and free to change.
the detective. "These windows have not been opened or shut in Of course, you are free to do this in all other relationships as well,
months." The detective looks at the fireplace. "The robber did not but in friendships you get to have lats of rehearsals and discussion
squeeze down here." about changes as you experience them. It is an unconditional
The detective walks to the front door. He examines the latch. experience where you receive as much as you give. You can explain
"And since there are no marks or scratches, the robber definitely yourself to a friend openly without the fear of hurting a family
did not try to or scratches, the robber definitely did not try to member. How do friendships grow ? The answer is simple. By
break the lock." " I have no idea how he did it." says a bothered revealing yourself; being attentive: remembering what is most
Ms. Gervis. "It is a big mystery." "And you say the robber stole showing empathy; seeing the world through the eyes of your
nothing else?" asks the detective. "No money, no jewellery, no friend, you will understand the value of friendship. All this means
crystal?" That's right, detective. He took only what was important learning to accept a person from a completely different family to
to me," Ms. Gervis says with a sigh. "There is only one thing I can your own or perhaps someone from a completely different cultural
do now." And what is that?" the detective asks with surprise. "I background. This is the way we learn tolerance. In turn we gain
will stop baking cakes," Ms. Gervis says. "They are mine to give tolerance and acceptance for our own differences.
away. They are not for someone to steal." "You can't do that!" 186. In good friendships, we
says the detective with alarm. "Who will bake those delicious (a) give and receive.
cakes?" "I am sorry. I do not know," says Ms. Gervis, "I must (b) neither give nor receive.
solve this case immediately!" says the detective. (c) only give.
(SSC CHSL 2014) (d) only receive.
 184 Reading Comprehension

187. Empathy means 195. The word 'popular' in the passage means
(a) someone else's misfortunes (a) propelling (b) problematic
(b) the ability to share and understand another feelings. (c) successful (d) poor
(c) skill and efficiency
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 196-200) : Read the passage carefully and
(d) ability to do something
choose the best answer to each question out of the four
188. Through strong friendships, we gain
alternatives and mark it by blackening the appropriate circle
(a) only acceptance.
[·].
(b) only attention.
(c) acceptance and tolerance. (SSC Stenographer 2016)
(d) only tolerance. Chameleons can make their skin colour change, but not because
189. Friendships and relationships grow when they are they decide to. The colour changes to help the chameleon avoid
(a) compared (b) divided its enemies. It is a forth of camouflage, a disguise that lets it blend
(c) favoured (d) nurtured in with its surroundings. The determined by environmental factors,
190. When we are with a good friend, we tend such as light and change is actually temperature.
(a) to be ourselves. (b) not to be ourselves. Bright sunlight causes the skin to darken. On cool nights,
(c) to shut ourselves. (d) to be someone else. the colour fades to a creamy changes chameleons are excited,
angry or afraid. The colour, The colour change is rapid and
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 191-195) : Read the passage carefully and increases when the chameleon is handled, injured, or approached
choose the best answer to each question out of the four by another chameleon. There are many types of chameleons.
alternatives and mark it by blackening the appropriate circle Almost half of them are found on the African island of Madagascar.
[·]. The others mostly occur in the Sahara Desert, with few in Western
(SSC Stenographer 2016) Asia and Southern Europe. Chameleons live in trees, where they
In the history of Britain, the period from 1837 to 1901 is known as the usually eat insects. Very large chameleons may even use their
Victorian Age. sticky tongues to catch birds.
The period saw the long and prosperous reign of Queen 196. Chameleons change colour when they are
Victoria in England. Charles Dickens was the most popular novelist (a) angry, excited or happy.
of this period. He became famous for his depiction of the life of (b) afraid, angry or hungry.
the working class, intricate plots and sense of humour. However, (c) afraid, excited or angry.
(d) excited, angry or hungry.
it was the vast galaxy of unusual characters created by him that
197. Half of the worlds' Chameleons are found
made him more popular than any of his contemporaries. Drawn
(a) on the African island of Madagascar.
from everyday life and the world around him, these characters (b) on the Asian island of Madagascar.
were such that readers could relate to them. Beginning with The (c) in the continent of Asia.
Pickwick Papers in 1836, Dickens wrote numerous novels, each (d) in the Sahara Desert.
uniquely filled with believable personalities and vivid physical 198. The colour changing ability of a chameleon is a form of
descriptions. According to Dickens' friend and biographer, John camouflage which is a
Forster. Dickens made "characters real existences, not by (a) dance done by chameleons.
describing them but letting them describe themselves." (b) colour that fades.
191. Dickens became famous for depicting the life of (c) disease which affects charneleons.
(a) the business class, intricate plots and sense of (d) disguise that lets it blend in with its surroundings.
humour. 199. A chameleon' s colour changes to help it
(b) the working class, dull plots and sense of humour. (a) avoid its enemies. (b) fly away.
(c) the working class, intricate plots and lack of humour. (c) look beautiful. (d) attract prey.
(d) the working class, intricate plots and sense of humour. 200. The colour change is determined by
192. Dickens' characters were drawn from (a) pressure and temperature.
(a) everyday life and the world around him. (b) light and temperature.
(b) unbelievable personalities. (c) light and wind.
(c) royal families. (d) light and pressure.
(d) everyday life and the world beyond him.
193. John Forster was Dickens' DIRECTIONS (Qs. 201-205) : Read the passage carefully and
(a) friend and editor choose the best answer to each question out of the four
(b) friend and biographer alternatives.
(c) best friend and philosopher (SSC Sub. Ins. 2016)
(d) friend and doctor PASSAGE
194. The period between 1837-1901 is known as the Flattery means 'praising insincerely in order to please', Every
(a) the Shakespearian Age flatterer says words in which he himself does not believe. While
(b) the Victorian Age flattering, he is insincere to the man he is praising and to himself.
(c) the Dark Age In doing so, he does not mind if he corrupts the minds of those
(d) the Elizabethan Age whom he flatters.
Reading Comprehension 185

Flattery is immoral because it stains the human conscience. 207. MTR operations cause environmental hazards because
It creates a world of falsehood and thus, an outrage of man's (a) mountaintops dumped in valleys and streams contain
sense of decency and gentlemanly behaviour. toxic substance.
A man who feels happy when flattered lives in a fool's (b) it destroys natural vegetation.
paradise. Flattery is the ready weapon of the opportunist. This (c) it causes explosion.
weapon easily conquers the weak willed man. It works on the (d) it causes landslides.
general weakness of human beings. We all love to be told what 208. In the Appalachian region MTR has caused
we are not rather than what we are. Flattery is equally bad for him (a) floods
who is flattered and for him who flatters. (b) widespread damage
Flattery deceives us by giving us false notions about (c) landslides
ourselves. By falling a victim to it, we show lack of character. By (d) permanent beautification
accepting flattery we make ourselves small beings. It is an evil 209. After the MTR operation, the mining companies
which ruins social and moral values by claiming what is not rightfully (a) replace the mountaintops.
its own. It thrives on corruption and leads to human bankruptcy. It (b) beautify the mountains.
is thus, the greatest of disease which can plague humanity. (c) restore native vegetation.
201. How does flattery deceive us ? (d) secure rock formations to prevent erosion.
(a) It makes us more corrupt. 210. The term ''overburden'' means
(b) Is makes us feel indecent. (a) excess mountaintop left after the extraction of coal
(c) It makes us bankrupt. through the blast.
(d) It gives us false ideas about ourselves. (b) weeds planted by mining companies.
202. 'Thrives' in the passage means (c) remnants of natural forests.
(a) prospers (b) collects (d) debris from landslides.
(c) provides (d) fills DIRECTIONS (Qs. 211 – 215): Read the following passage and
203. Flattery can stain the answer the questions that follow :
(a) mind (b) human conscience
(c) heart (d) emotion A passage is given with five questions following it. Read the
204. Flattery means passage carefully and select the best answer to each question
(a) insincere praise in order to please out of the given four alternatives.
(b) being anti-social Antarctica is a mostly unpopulated continent. It is the coldest,
(c) claiming what is not ours driest and most remote place in the world. And it is the world's
(d) being immoral only continent that does not have a native population. No single
205. How does the weapon of flattery work? country owns the Antarctic. However a number of countries,
(a) It conquers the man with a weak will. including Argentina, Australia, Chile, New Zealand, France and
(b) A man feels sad. the United Kingdom, have already laid claim to the Antartic and
(c) It conquers the man with a strong will. others will probably follow. In some areas of the continent, two
(d) A man does not like it. countries claim the same land.
The Antarctic Treaty was signed in 1959 and creates the rules for
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 206-210) : Read the passage carefully and
choose the best answer to each question out of the four the exploration of the Antarctic. The treaty forbids military activity
alternatives. in the Antarctic, as well as mining. Many countries, however,
think that there are valuable materials and minerals locked up
(SSC Sub. Ins. 2016) under the frozen Antarctic ice, In addition, the treaty bans nuclear
PASSAGE testing as well as dumping nuclear waste. The Antarctic. Treaty
The destructive process of Mountain Top Removal mining (MTR) was made to protect the continent and avoid further disputes.
has caused permanent damage to Appalachia. Although the law By 2048, the treaty must be renewed. New rules and regulations
requires that mining companies restore the mountaintops after could be imposed by then.
the mining has been completed, the 1.5 million acres of mountains Currently, almost all of the 70 bases in the Antarctic are used for
that have already been removed cannot be re-grown, re-built, or research and scientific activity. The snow–covered continent is
replaced. The companies do secure the rock formations to prevent perfect for tracking satellites and space research because it offers
erosion and landslides. but their efforts cannot recreate the once
clear blue, cloudless skies. Climatologists are studying the
beautiful mountain landscape. Furthermore, while companies are
usually vigilant about securing the rock formations, they seem development of the ozone layer with growing concern. It was
less interested in restoring the native vegetation. MTR operations here that a hole in the layer was discovered for the first time.
clear enormous tracts of forest. Environmental hazards are not More than 4000 scientists operate the research stations in the
only creates in preparing a mountaintop for mining, they also Antarctic summer, while only about a thousand populate the
continue once the coal has been extracted. After the blast, the continent during the harsh and severe winters.
excess mountaintop which miners refer to as ''overburden'' is Environmentalists fear that exploiting Antarctica for military and
usually dumped into nearby valleys or streams. the overburden economic reasons will damage the environment. At present, there
contains a variety of toxic sabstances, including explosive residue, is no economic activity in Antarctica, except for cruise ships that
silica and coal dust. travel around the continent. This could change, if a new treaty
206. The word opposite in meaning to ''Vigilant"is allows mining in the Antarctic. As mineral resources are dwindling
(a) lenient (b) displeased in other areas, nations could turn to Antarctica to find and exploit
(c) careless (d) annoyed valuable raw materials.
 186 Reading Comprehension

Some geologists say that there are over 200 billion barrels of oil 219. How can music be used as a therapy?
under the Antarctic ice. At the moment getting at these reserves (a) It can help us to manage our day to day activities
would be very expensive. In addition, economic experts claim (b) It can help us in managing numerous medical
that there are large amounts of coal, nickel and copper under the conditions
Antarctic ice. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2017) (c) It can help us manage our life
211. Which country's name is not being mentioned in the
(d) It can help us manage our careers
passage?
(a) Argentina (b) Chile 220. In Chinese medical theory, the five internal organs and
(c) New Zealand (d) Austria meridian systems________.
212. When was the Antarctic Treaty signed? (a) are believed to have musical chords
(a) 1959 (b) 1958 (b) are believed to have no musical tones
(c) 1960 (d) 1969 (c) are believed to have same musical tones
213. Why was Antarctic Treaty signed? (d) are believed to have corresponding musical tones
(a) to protect the continent DIRECTIONS (221 – 225) : Read the given passage carefully
(b) to ban dumping of nuclear waste and select the best answer to each question out of the four given
(c) to create rules for its exploration alternatives.
(d) All of these.
214. Why did environmentalists have fear of exploiting Antarctica Approximately half of India's 1.2 billion people are under
for military and economic reasons? the age of 26, and by 2020 we are forecasted to be the youngest
country in the world, with a median age of 29 years. With this
(a) unfavourable weather conditions
tremendous forecast, it becomes imperative to ensure an
(b) high involvement of cost
environment which promotes positive well-being. Unfortunately,
(c) damage to environment India has the highest suicide rate in the world among the youth
(d) None of these standing at 35.5 per 100,000 people for 2012. The reason for such
215. According to the passage, the reserves of which mineral is high numbers can be attributed to lack of economic, social, and
not found under the Antarctic ice? emotional resources. More specifically, academic pressure,
(a) coal (b) iron workplace stress, social pressures, modernisation of urban
(c) nickel (d) copper centers, relationship concerns, and the breakdown of support
DIRECTIONS (216 – 220) : Read the given passage carefully systems. Some researchers have attributed the rise of youth
and select the best answer to each question out of the four given suicide to urbanisation and the breakdown of the traditional large
alternatives. family support system. The clash of values within families is an
important factor. As young Indians become more progressive,
For most people, music is an important part of daily life. Some
their traditionalist households become less supportive of their
rely on music to get them through the morning commute, while
choices pertaining to financial independence, marriage age,
others turn up a favourite playlist to stay pumped during a
premarital sex, rehabilitation and taking care of the elderly.
workout. Many folks even have the stereo on when they're
cooking a meal, taking a shower, or folding the laundry. Music is (SSC Stenographer 2017)
often linked to mood. A certain song can make us feel happy, sad, 221. Approximately half of India's 1.2 billion people are under
energetic, or relaxed. Because music can have such an impact on the age of__________.
a person's mindset and well-being, it should come as no surprise (a) 30 (b) 26
that music therapy has been studied for use in managing (c) 22 (d) 18
numerous medical conditions. All forms of music may have 222. What are the reasons for high number of suicide rates among
therapeutic effects, although music from ons's own culture may the youth in India.?
be most effective. In Chinese medical theory, the five internal (a) lack of monetary help by the government
organs and meridian systems are believed to have corresponding (b) lack of healthy foods
musical tones, which are used to encourage healing. (c) lack of economical, social and emotional resources
(SSC Stenographer 2017) (d) lack of good roads and transports
216. Music is often linked to____________. 223. By which year India will become the youngest country in
(a) anger (b) mood the world?
(c) anxiety (d) happiness (a) 2017 (b) 2030
217. How is music an important part of life? (c) 2019 (d) 2020
224. The__________within families is an important factor.
(a) It makes us feel different emotions
(a) clash of values (b) clash of resources
(b) It makes us sad
(c) clash of power (d) clash of thinking
(c) It helps in our daily activities
225. How can we prevent youth from committing suicide?
(d) It helps us in remembering things
(a) by making families progressive
218. Which of the statements is true?
(b) by creating an environment that which promotes good
(a) All forms of music may heal wounds behaviour
(b) All forms of music may have good effect (c) by creating an environment that which promotes
(c) All forms of music may be sooting positive well being
(d) All forms of music may have therapeutic effects (d) by creating career opportunities
Reading Comprehension 187

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 226 – 230) : Read the given passage carefully (b) Most medium-sized peaks in Europe are accessed by
and select the best answer to each question out of the four given car or air.
alternatives. (c) Himalayan base camp treks can be completed in a day
or two.
He was a vendor of sweets. He had his own peculiar method of (d) European and North American mountains require ex-
advertising and doing business. He never depended upon others
panded time scale for climbing
for help and worked hard all alone. I speak of Murali- the man
232. What necessitates the huge amount of supplies and large
who sold sweets. His customers were children, the future citizens
number of personel in Himalayan expeditions?
of the world. At the stroke of nine in the morning, Murali would
(a) foreign logistics
stand in front of the school with his tray of sweets. Till about
eleven, the sale would be brisk. After that he moved off to other (b) low altitudes
places. Even when the sweets became sticky in the heat, his (c) expanded time scale
business never slackened. There was depression in his business (d) severe weather condition
when the holidays came. (SSC Stenographer 2017) 233. Which of the following style of mountaineering is
226. Who was Murali? considered to be slow and heavy?
(a) a businessman (b) a vendor of sweets (a) sports mountaineering
(c) a job seeker (d) a student (b) expedition mountaineering
227. Who were his customers? (c) alpine mountaineering
(a) the children (b) the adults (d) Himalayan mountaineering
(c) the office goers (d) the housewives 234. What accounts for the greater prevalence of expedition
228. What time would he go to the school? mountaineering in the Himalayas?
(a) at 10 in the morning (b) at 8 in the morning (a) glacier airplanes
(c) at 3 in the afternoon (d) at 9 in the morning (b) the severe weather condition
229. Complete the sentence. (c) the specific nature of mountains
Till about eleven, the sale would be__________. (d) multiple carries between camps
(a) high (b) worse 235. Which of the following is best undertaken as expedition
(c) brisk (d) low mountaineering?
230. When did the depression come in his business? (a) medium-sized mountains
(a) after the holiays (b) when the holidays came (b) short time scale mountaineering
(c) he was found cheating (d) None of these (c) peaks in Europe and North America
(d) large and isolated peaks
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 231 – 235): Read the following passage
carefully and choose the most appropriate answer to each DIRECTIONS (Qs. 236 -240) : Read the following passage and
question out of the four alternatives. answer the questions.
Trade fairs are among the most memorable events that take place
Expedition mountaineering could be viewd as slow and heavy,
periodically with the purpose of promoting sales, launching new
where climbers may use porters, pack animals glacier airplanes,
products, bringing together manufacturers of a particular line of
cooks, multiple carries between camps, usage of fixed lines,
products and educating the public. They are held at all levels-
etc. Expedition mountaineers still employ the skill sets of the
International, national, state and district. The most prominent
aphine mountaineer, except they have to deal with even higher
among them are the India International Trade Fair, World Book
altitudes, expanded time scale, longer routes, foreign logistics,
Fair, Information Technology Fair, Electronic Trade and
more severe weather, an d additional skills unique to
Technology Fair, Textile Fair, Auto Expo, State Level Book fairs,
expeditionary climbing. The prevalence of expedition-style
District Level Exhibitions etc. India Trade Promotion
climbing in the Himalaya is largely a function of the nature of
Organisation (ITPO), which was incorporated in 1992 by the
the mountains in the region. Because Himalayan base camps
merger of Trade Development Authority (TDA) with the Trade
can take days or weeks to trek to, and Himalayan mountains
Fair Authority of India (TFAI) has been playing a commendable
can take weeks or perhaps even months to climb, a large number
role in this respect. It can be said without a doubt that sales
of personal and amount of supplies are necessary. This is
promotion is the most important purpose of these fairs. Bringing
why expedition-style climbing is frequently used on large an
together the largest possible number of manufacturers, suppliers,
isolated peaks in the Himalaya in, Europe and North America
existing and potential buyers under the same roof helps to
there is less of a need for expedition-style climbing on most
promote the products in an effective way. All these people come
medium-sized mountains. These mountains can often be easily
together on a single platform for a fixed period of time. This offers
accessed by car or air, are at a lower altitude and can be climbed
a unique opportunity to manufacturers and suppliers to display
in a shorter time scale. (SSC MTS 2017)
their best products and services and the buyers get a chance to
231. Which of the following is true? see a wide range of products and services.
(a) Expeditionary climbing is popular in the Americans,
 188 Reading Comprehension

Conferences, seminars, live product demonstrations and cartoons can be very funny, especially if people can understand
presentations are regular features of these fail s and exhibitions. the message in the cartoon. Their main purpose, though, is not
Besides these, colourful cultural programmes are also important only to amuse him but also make him think about current events
features of such fairs. These fairs give a good opportunity to the and influence his opinion about the events. The best political
artists to showcase their skills and talent at such specially cartoonist uses humour so skilfully that the reader’s own
organized programmes. (SSC Steno 2018) opinions on various political issues are formed even without him
236. ITPO stands for: even realizing how it happened. (SSC Steno 2018)
(a) Indian Trade and Promotion Order 241. What are the aims of the cartoonist?
(b) India Trade Promotion Organisation (a) To criticize people and all their practices.
(c) India Trade Promotion Authority (b) To be humorous and offend people.
(d) India Traders and Products and Organisation (c) To make positive criticism about people and change
237. What are some of the regular features of such trade fairs? wrong practices.
(a) Programmes for launching new products and (d) To show the people funny things and criticize them.
showcasing skills and talent 242. What does the passage talk about?
(b) Conferences, seminars, live product demonstrations (a) Cartoons and their purpose
and meetings (b) Cartoons in different language papers
(c) Programmes for launching new products and bringing (c) Humorous cartoons
together manufacturers (d) Cartoonists in India
(d) Conferences, seminars, live product demonstrations 243. Why does the cartoonist use humour?
and presentations (a) To influence public opinion.
238. How is the trade fair an effective way of promoting products? (b) To help people have ideas about their society.
(a) It brings together the maximum number of (c) To make people understand their duties.
manufacturers, suppliers and buyers in a single place (d) To change the political issues in the country.
(b) It brings together the maximum number of buyers to a 244. Cartoons make the general reader smile because they make
single place. him notice something that is:
(c) It is conducted by The Trade Fair Authority of India. (a) general and unexpected
(d) It has seminars, conferences and film shows on the (b) curious and unusual.
various products. (c) beautiful and unusual.
239. Under the same roof means: (d) uncommon and unexpected.
(a) In an open area (b) In a big building 245. To beat around the bush means:
(c) at one place (d) at different places (a) to talk about a lot of unimportant things
240. What is the main purpose of organizing trade fairs? (b) to give an example
(a) Informing people about the activities of traders (c) to highlight unique features
(b) Launching international products (d) to say what is most important
(c) Bringing the manufacturers and suppliers together DIRECTIONS (Qs. 246 -250) : Read the following passage and
(d) Sales promotion answer the questions.
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 241 -245) : Read the following passage and The founder of the Bhoodan Yagna or the Land Gifts Mission was
answer the questions. Acharya Vinoba Bhave, a close associate and follower of
The general reader enjoys cartoons for two reasons. First, these Mahatma Gandhi. This movement, which was one of the greatest
cartoons make him smile because they draw his attention to land reform movements in Independent India, was started in the
something that is unusual and unexpected. The cartoonist year 1951 in Pochampalli, Telangana. In the spring of 1951 there
highlights some aspects of a well-known personality in the field of was a meeting of rural workers in Hyderabad. Since Vinoba Bhave
politics, social work, cinema, sports, business etc. and criticises the never used money, he decided to walk to this meeting which was
person involved. Here, the purpose is not to offend but to make him some 300 miles away from where he lived. On the way. in every
understand that there is something funny about his actions or village through which he passed, he came face to face with the
behaviour. Secondly, the cartoonist may target some wrong misery of the poor, landless farmers. He realized that he should
practices or situations from different walks of life. Here, his aim is to leave no stone unturned in his mission to seek justice and land for
use humour to not only criticize but also correct the wrong his poor countrymen. When he reached Hyderabad he went
practices. In other words, correction through entertainment. The straight to a village and in one of the prayer meetings he appealed
cartoonist can never beat around the bush because he needs to to the landlords. He said. “If you had five sons and a sixth were
make his point with just a few strokes of his pen. bom to you, wouldn’t you give him a portion of your estate? Treat
Political cartoons, that is, cartoons making humorous me as your sixth son and give me one-sixth of your land for
comments on current political situations and events are a regular redistribution to the poor.” His words struck a chord among the
feature of both English newspapers and regional language landlords.
newspapers. They can be found in the editorial pages of a daily Land was voluntarily donated and within the two months that he
newspaper, in news magazines and on political websites. Political spent in Hyderabad. Vinoba received nearly 12,000 acres in trust
Reading Comprehension 189

for the landless. Encouraged by this success, he travelled across if there are fewer phytoplankton, the water looks bluer.
India to convince the wealthy landlords to share a small area of The creatures’ growth is dependent on how much sunlight, car-
their land with their poor, landless neighbours. By 1969, the bon dioxide and nutrients are around. Climate change is altering
Bhoodan movement had collected over 4 million acres of land for the ocean currents, meaning there will be fewer nutrients for phy-
redistribution. (SSC Steno 2018) toplankton to feed on in some areas, so there will be a decline in
246. When and where was the Bhoodan movement started? their number in those regions.
(a) 1951, Hyderabad Since the 1990s, satellites have taken regular measurements of
(b) 1951, Pochampalli, Telangana how much chlorophyll is in the ocean. Those levels can change
(c) 1969, Pochampalli, Telangana because of weather events or because of climate change.
(d) 1969, Hyderabad The study predicts that the blues will intensify, most likely in
247. How did Vinoba make an appeal to the landlords? subtropical regions where phytoplankton will decrease. These
(a) He asked them to think of the villagers as their sons are areas near the equator like Bermuda and the Bahamas that are
and give one-sixth of their land. already quite low in phytoplankton.
(b) He insisted that all the land belonged to the poor. Regions where there are a lot of nutrients, like in the Southern
(c) He asked them to give the land to all their six sons. Ocean or parts of the North Atlantic, will see even faster-growing
(d) He asked them to consider him as their sixth son and phytoplankton because those waters are Warming with climate
give him one-sixth of their land. change. Those waters will look greener.
248. How can it be said that Vinoba Bhave’s movement was Climate change will bring a color change to half of the world’s
successful? oceans by the end of the 21st century, the study says. That’s bad
(a) By 1969, he had collected 4 million acres for redistribution. on several levels: For one, phytoplankton remove about as much
(b) By 1951, he had persuaded the wealthy landlords to carbon dioxide from the air as plants and help regulate our climate,
donate their land. research shows. They are also key to other animals’ survival.”
(c) By 1969, he had collected 12,000 acres for redistribution. Phytoplankton are at the base, and if the base changes, it endan-
(d) In 1951, he had walked 300 miles to attend a meeting. gers everything else along the food web, going far enough to the
249. Read the passage and answer the questions by choosing polar bears or tuna or just about anything that you want to eat or
the correct option for each. love to see in pictures, “said Stephanie Dutkiewicz, a principal
What type of a movement was the Blioodan Yagna? research scientist in MIT. (SSC Sub. Ins. 2018)
(a) It was a Spring movement 251. The passage is mainly about:
(b) It was a land reforms movement (a) The change of the ocean color due to climate change.
(c) It was a village movement (b) Why ocean water looks blue.
(d) It was a land movement (c) How the growth of phytoplankton will impact the food
250. To leave no stone unturned means: web
(a) To find a new path (d) The growth of phytoplankton in the ocean.
(b) To try and do new things 252. The colour of the ocean depends on:
(c) To walk carefully on a road full of stones (a) the growth of phytoplankton in the ocean.
(d) to do everything possible to achieve a good result (b) the sunlight’s absorption by the sea organisms.
(c) water molecules absorbing the blue of the sunlight
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 251-255): Read the following passage and
(d) the sunlight’s interaction with the water molecules and
answer the questions given after it.
sea organisms.
The ocean will not look the same color in the future. 253. In which areas will the ocean look bluer?
Essentially, climate change will make the blues of the ocean bluer (a) North Atlantic ocean
and the greens greener. Scientists from MIT. Boston, figured this (b) Southern ocean
out by creating a global model that simulates the growth of a tiny (c) Areas near poles
creature that lives in the oceans and affects the color we see. Their (d) Areas near equator
research was published in the journal Nature Communications. 254. Where do phytoplankton grow profusely?
The ocean looks blue or green to us because of a combination of (a) Where the ocean currents are cold
how sunlight interacts with water molecules and with whatever (b) Where the ocean waters are hot as at equator
else lives in that water. (c) Where there are a lot of nutrients in the ocean water
The molecules in water absorb all but the blue part of the spec- (d) Where the sun rays are absorbed by ocean water
trum of sunlight, and the water reflects that blue color back. That’s 255. Which statement is not true according to the passage?
the color we see. (a) Phytoplankton has a key role in the survival of other
The water looks greener when it has more phytoplankton, tiny, animals.
microscopic organisms that, like plants, can use chlorophyll to (b) By the end of 21st century the colour of ocean waters
capture mostly the blue portions of the spectrum of sunlight. will change.
They then use photosynthesis to create the chemical energy they (c) More blue colour in the ocean will affect the climate
need to live. When there are more of these creatures in the water change.
absorbing sunlight, they make the water look greener. Conversely, (d) In subtropical regions phytoplankton will decrease.
 190 Reading Comprehension

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 256-260): Read the following passage and DIRECTIONS (Qs. 266-270): Read the following passage and
answer the questions given after it. answer the questions given after it.
In the following passage some words have been deleted. Fill in In the following passage some words have been deleted. Fill in
the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. Select the most the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. Select the most
appropriate option for each blank. appropriate option for each blank
Humanity can be (1) ______ as the quality of being human; the Every Monday, on his way back from work, Bepin Chaudhury
peculiar nature (2) _____ man, by which is distinguished (3) _______ would drop in at Kali Charan’s in New Market (1) _____ books.
other beings. Being human (4) ______ not mean that an individual Crime stories, ghost stories, and thrillers. (2) _____ had to buy at
possesses humanity. One of the (5) ______ outstanding examples of least five at a time to last him (3) ______ the week. He lived alone,
extraordinary humanity in a human being has been portrayed was not a good mixer, had few (4) _____, and didn’t like spending
beautifully by Mother Teresa. (SSC MTS 2019-20) time in idle chat. Today, at KaliCharan’s, Bepin Babu had a (5)____
256. Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 1. that somebody was observing him from close quarters.
(a) define (b) defining (SSC CHSL 2020-21)
(c) defined (d) defines 266. Select the most appropriate option for blank no. 1.
257. Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 2. (a) to buy (b) buy
(a) of (b) in (c) bought (d) buying
267. Select the most appropriate for blank no. 2
(c) at (d) to
(a) Him (b) They (c) He (d) She
258. Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 3.
268. Select the most appropriate option for blank no 3.
(a) along (b) for (a) through (b) within (c) by (d) across
(c) by (d) from 269. Select the most appropriate option for blank no. 4
259. Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 4. (a) students (b) servants
(a) had (b) does (c) followers (d) friends
(c) has (d) did 270. Select the most appropriate option for blank no. 5.
260. Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 5. (a) perception (b) connotation
(a) more (b) many (c) feeling (d) intuition
(c) most (d) much DIRECTIONS: (Qs. 271-275): In the following passage some
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 261-265): Read the following passage and words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the
answer the questions given after it. alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each
blank.
Man-made fibre, is fibre whose chemical composition, structure,
and properties are significantly modified during the manufacturing Many years ago, I met a panchayat president (1) _________ a
process. Man-made fibres (1) ______ spun and woven into a state literacy programme who talked to me (2) _____ Cuba’s literacy
large (2) _______ of consumer and industrial products, (3) ______ programme where teachers, students and volunteers
garments such as shirts, scarves, and hosiery, home furnishings (3) in a well organised, massive nationwide literacy
(4) _____ as upholstery, carpets, and drapes; and (5) _____ parts movement. They (4) _______ people in the remotest of villages
such as tire cord, flame-proof linings, and drive belts. and were (5) _______ successful in their mission.
(SSC CGL 2020-21) (SSC MTS 2020-21)
271. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 1
261. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 1.
(a) when (b) during
(a) is (b) will be (c) are (d) be (c) which (d) while
262. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 2. 272. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 2.
(a) number (b) figure (a) through (b) about
(c) extent (d) total (c) across (d) around
263. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 3. 273. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 3.
(a) Counting (b) wrapping (a) Join forces (b) Combine
(c) showing (d) including (c) Joined hands (d) Collaborate
264. Select the most appropriate optin to fill in blank 4. 274. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 4.
(a) reached out to
(a) much (b) more (c) such (d) s o
(b) reaching out to
265. Select the most appropriate optin to fill in blank 5. (c) reach out for
(a) industrial (d) reaches out for
(b) industrialised 275. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no. 5.
(c) industry (a) exceedingly (b) negligibly
(d) industrialist (c) excessively (d) marginally
Reading Comprehension 191

DIRECTIONS (QS. 276-283): In the following passage, some 287. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 4.
words have been deleted . Fill in the blanks with the help of the (a) sometimes (b) all times
options given, Select the most appropriate option for each (c) any times (d) no time
number. 288. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 5.
(a) if (b) nevertheless
The Covid-19 pandemic has deeply affected people across the (c) however (d) because
world. During these difficult (1) ______ frontline workers have 289. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 6.
been at the highest risk as (2) _______ have been stepping out to (a) were making (b) are made
work daily (3)_______ proper protective gear. An NGO reached (c) had made (d) was making
out to people to workers. Several school children participated (4) 290. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 7.
_______ this noble initiative. They collected old newspapers and (a) theirs (b) one’s (c) their (d) his
books and (5) ______ them to raise a good sim of money which 291. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 8.
was (6) ______ used to buy kits. The children were happy to (7) (a) which (b) whom (c) whose (d) who
______ and learnt how taking care of each other is very (8) _______ 292. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 9.
in such challenging situations. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) (a) complicating (b) complications
Sub Question No : 66 (c) complicated (d) complicates
276. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank no.1. 293. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 10.
(a) time (b) timing (c) times (d) timings (a) inside (b) into (c) between (d) among
277. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank no.2.
(a) they (b) he (c) she (d) we DIRECTIONS (Qs. 294-298): Read the given passages and
278. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank no.3. answer the questions that follow.
(a) with (b) after (c) beyond (d) without I was on a visit to Calcutta. it was Saturday and | was staying for
279. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank no.6. the weekend at my cousin’s. That evening my cousin, who works
(a) along (b) beside (c) through (d) in in a firm, had to fly to Delhi for a meeting. So, his wife drove him
280. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank no.7. to the airport and I accompanied them. On our way back from the
(a) funded (b) donated airport we stopped by a lake. My cousin’s wife said, “Let me
(c) sold (d) purchased show you where we spend some of our evenings.” She locked
281. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank no.8. the car and we began to walk towards the lake. There was a small
(a) timely (b) aptly (c) equally (d) exactly bridge to cross and she led the way. Three young men were
282. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank no. 9. coming from the other end of the bridge. As they approached us,
(a) contributes (b) afford one of them said to me, “Can I have a match?” As I put my hand
(c) enrich (d) devote into my pocket for the match box, I heard a cry of alarm. And then
283. Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank no.10. I saw what was happening.
(a) serious (b) urgent One of the other two men had snatched the handbag from my
(c) large (d) important cousin’s wife and passed it on the man next to him. He in turn
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 284-293): In the following passage, some words passed it to the third man and all three started running back to
have been deleted . Fill in the blanks with the help of the options where they had come from. My cousin’s wife kept shouting and
given, Select the most appropriate option for each number. hurling abuses at them but made no attempt to follow them to
retrieve her bag. I wanted to chase them but she stopped me
In 1945, James Leach Miller returned from World Was II and saying that such rogues could be armed and dangerous. As it
shared nothing (1) _____ it with his wife. He foled up his Army was dark, the three men were scon out of sight. I felt sorry for not
(2) _____, with the medals still pinned to it, and (3) _____ put it being of any help but my cousin’s wife assured me that there was
in the basement, where his older boy would (4) _____ take it out no money or valuables in the bag. She had just kept a couples of
to play soldiers. He never complained (5) _____ that generation apples and a packet of biscuits in the handbag in case I felt
to army men didn’t air their problems. His son Michael once hungry. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
offered to take him back to Normandy when World War II veterans 294. Why did the narrator’s cousin’s wife stop him from chasing
(6) _____ the journey but his father shook (7) _____ head saying, the thieves?
“I’ve been threre once. “Sadly, Mr. Miller, 96 years old, (8) _____ (a) There were no valuable in the handbag.
survived the bloodiest battle of World Was II, died of (9) _____ (b) She wanted to retrieve the bag herself.
from the coronavirus on March 30 (10) _____ an Old Soldiers’ (c) She feared they could harm the narrator.
Home. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21) (d) He could’t follow them in the dark.
284. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 1. 295. How long was the narrator going to stay at his cousin’s place?
(a) within (b) for (c) to (d) about (a) Two days (b) Two weeks
285. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 2. (c) One week (d) One day
(a) uniforms (b) uniformly 296. After dropping the narrator’s cousin, his cousin’s wife took
(c) uniform (d) uniformity his to a lake to:
286. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 3. (a) have an evening walk on the bridge
(a) hopefully (b) truly (b) have a picnic by the takeside
(c) strongly (d) carefully
 192 Reading Comprehension

(c) enjoy the cool breeze in the evening 302. Which of the following did the hotel staff do?
(d) show him the where she and her husband spent their (A) Served snacks to the guests
evenings (B) Escorted guests out of the hotel
297. Which of the following statements is NOT true? (C) Escorted guests to their rooms
(a) There was no real loss in the incident. (D) Looked around for survivors
(b) The narrator’s cousin lived in Calcutta. (E) Ran here and there in fear and panic
(c) The narrator drove his cousin to the airport. (F) Ran out of the hotel to save themselves
(d) The handbag contained apples and biscuits. (a) A, C and E (b) C, E and F
298. One of the three men asked the narrator for a match to: (c) B, D and F (d) A, B and D
(a) burn the handbag 303. On the day of the shootout:
(b) smoke a cigarette (a) all of those who were present in the hotel died
(c) stop and divert the narrator’s attention (b) many of the staff behaved like cowards
(d) pass the bag to his accomplice (c) all chefs left through the exit points
(d) the brave ones faced death to help those in need
I was a chef in the Taj banquet kitchen when the gunshots started
that night. Initially, the news was that it was an internal gang war An excavation of ancient Babyion revealed evidence that
in a neighbourhood nearby and that it would die down soon. It Babylonians were making soap around 2800 B.C. This is the first
concrete evidence we have of soap-like substance. The early
was only at about 10.30 or 11 p.m. that we understood the
soap makers were Babylonians, Mesopotamians, Egyptians, as
magnitude of what was going on. We were seven chefs in the
well as the ancient Greeks and Romans. All of them made soap by
kitchen that night, net one of whom left the Taj despite knowing
mixing fat, oils and salts. Soap wasn't made and used for bathing
all exit points. By then the shootout had happened at the Wasabi
and personal hygiene but was rather produced for cleaning
restaurant and all those who had survived were pouring into the cooking utensils or goods or was used for medicine purposes.
banquet hall and kitchen where we were working. The early references to soap making were for the use of soap in
As soon as we had heard about the shootout, we had prepared cleaning wool and cotton used in textile manufacture and was
sandwiches for our surviving guests which we then handed out. used medicinally for at least 5000 years.
After this, we entered the corridor to escort our guests out of the Soap is a product for cleaning made from natural ingredients that
hotel through the back entrance. We had successfully helped a may include both plant and animal products, including items as:
few guests when I saw the left profile of a terrorist in a red cap, who animal fat, such as tallow or vegetable oil, such as castor, olive,
began shooting. I was standing next to a refrigerator, when my or coconut oil. Soap supposedly got its name from Mount Sapo
head chef and his assistant chef both got shot. There was chaos, in Rome. The word ‘sapo’, Latin for soap, first appeared in Pliny
panic and fear as our guests started running everywhere — but by the Elder's Historia Naturalis. The first soap was made by
then they had opened fire in all directions. Babylonians around 2800 B.C.
All of a sudden, everything went quiet and that silence was the Soap making history goes back many thousands years. In the
worst. I tried looking around for survivors, but it was just me. I early beginnings of soap making, it was an exclusive technique
stayed there for a few hours, until I realised that no help would be used by small groups of soap makers. The demand for soap was
coming anytime soon. I looked at the refrigerator where I’d been high, but it was very expensive and there was a monopoly on
only a while ago and it had 3 bullet holes in it — !’'d narrowly soap production in many areas. Back then, plant byproducts and
escaped death, but it was horrifying to see that my guests and animal and vegetable oils were the main ingredients of soap. The
colleagues hadn't been as lucky. I won't look back on that day as price of soap was significantly reduced in 1791 when a Frenchman
just a terrorist attack, but a day when many brave individuals by the name of LeBlanc discovered a chemical process that allowed
looked death in the eye to help others. soap to be made cheaply and sold for significantly less money.
(SSC Stenographer 2020-21) More than 20 years later, another Frenchman identified
299. By saying that many ‘looked death in the eye’ the narrator relationships between glycerin, fats and acid — what marked the
means they: beginning of modern soap making. With this discovery of another
(a) faced death bravely method of making soap, soap became even less expensive. Since
(b) showed fear of dying that time, there have been no major discoveries and the same
(c) thought death to be the last option processes are used for the soap making we use and enjoy today.
(d) were very disturbed Advances came as the science of chemistry developed because
300. ‘All of a sudden, everything went quiet and that silence more was understood about the ingredients. In the mid-nineteenth
was the wrost’. The narrator felt so because: century, soap for bathing became a separate commodity from
(a) the narrator was afraid of dying laundry soap, with milder soaps being packaged, sold and made
(b) the narrator was alone to manage the kitchen available for personal use. Liquid hand soaps were invented in
(c) it indicated everyone had run away the 1970s and this invention keeps soaps in the public view.
(d) it appeared as if everyone around had been shot Today, there are many different kinds of soaps made for a vast
301. The shootout first started in: array of purposes. Soaps is available for personal, commercial
and industrial use. There is handmade, home made and
(a) the banquet hall
commercially produced soap, there is soap used to wash clothes,
(b) the kitchen
dishes cars, there is soap used for your pet, soap for your carpet
(c) the corridor near the exit
and also soap for your child. (SSC Stenographer 2020-21)
(d) Wasabi restaurant
Reading Comprehension 193

304. The main theme of the passage is : Many of us have enjoyed visiting a zoo and consider it a day out
(a) the ingredients of soap having fun. Seeing real animals face to face can be thrilling and
(b) the history of soap exciting, but many people wonder whether the animals themselves,
(c) the invention of soap while entertaining us, are suffering in the zoos.
(d) the kinds of soap Many zoos do not have enough money to provide the animals
305. After reading the passage it can be inferred that soap was with the basic features of a proper environment. Most animals
first made by : are put in an artificial environment (e.g., cages). This isolation
(a) Mesopotamians (b) Babylonians from their natural habitat can amount to cruelty. In some zoos, we
(c) Egyptians (d) Romans see concrete floors for burrowing animals like rabbits. Cruelty
306. In early days, soap was NOT used for : may be shown in ways other than physical abuse or starvation.
(a) cleaning different goods Big predators like lions and tigers are created to chase and hunt.
(b) bathing and personal hygiene By depriving them of these activities, we forget the reason for
which they have evolved. These big cats lie in cages in the zoo
(c) washing cooking utensils
eating the food given to them and they have nothing else to do.
(d) medicine and in textile manfucturing.
Highly intelligent and curious animals like chimpanzees and polar
307. Till the eighteenth century, which ingredient was NOT used
bears may become frustrated in a zoo; they need a challenging
in making soap?
environment.
(a) Plant byproducts
Zoo supporters might argue that zoos provide educational
(b) Animal fat
opportunities to the visitors, especially children; if we didn’t
(c) Vegitable oils have animals in zoos, children wouldn’t see them at all and be
(d) Glycerin ignorant about them. We live at a time when animals in their
308. Soap became less expensive in the early 19 th century natural habitat can be seen on TV or computers, even smart
because : phones, while sitting at home. Therefore, the aim should be to
(a) a chemical process of soap making had been discovers conserve animals in the wild, in protected areas called sanctuaries.
(b) soap was manufactured by small groups of soap (SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21)
markers 314. Which of the following best states the author’s purpose in
(c) the monopoly on soap making was curtailed the passage?
(d) the ingredients of soap had become cheaper (a) One of the main reasons for which big predators have
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 309-313) : In the following passage, some evolved is hunting.
words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the (b) We can show our concern for animals better by
alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each supporting protected spaces for them in the natural
blank. environment.
(c) Putting endangered species of animals in zoos is the
Let us take a brief look at the planet ______(1)______which we
best way of protecting and saving them.
live. As the earth hurtles through space at a (2) ______ of 70, 000
(d) If animals were not kept in zoos, children would not
miles per hour, it spins, as we all know, on its axis, (3)_______ be able to see and know about them at all.
causes it to be flattened at the Poles. Thus, if you (4) _______to 315. According to the passage, animals in zoos suffer cruelty:
stand at the North or South Pole you would be 13 miles nearer the (a) by being kept in artificial environments
centre of the earth (5) _______if you stood on the Equator. (b) by being starved to death
(SSC Sub-Inspector 2020-21) (c) by being physically tortured or abused
309. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no.1. (d) by being forced to perform for the visitors
(a) for (b) on 316. The word ‘predators’ (in paragraph 3) means:
(c) by (d) from (a) animals which kill others for food
310. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no.2. (b) animals which are starving in zoos
(a) force (b) distance (c) speed (d) mass (c) animals which are kept in their natural habitat
311. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no.3. (d) animals which are killed for food
(a) which (b) where (c) that (d) who 317. ‘Burrowing’ animals:
312. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no.4. (a) are intelligent and curious
(a) are (b) was (b) chase and hunt other animals
(c) were (d) have (c) are solitary animals
313 Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no.5. (d) dig the earth for food and shelter
(a) than (b) from 318. According to the passage, we visit zoos______.
(c) where (d) when (a) to watch the frustration of animals in cages
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 314-318) :Read the given passage and answer (b) to see how animals behave in zoos
the questions that follow. (c) to spend a day out for fun and excitement
(d) to see the animals in cages
 194 Reading Comprehension

DIRECTIONS (Qs. 319-323): In the following passage, some 327. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.
words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select (a) mythical (b) proverbial
the most appropriate option to fill in each blank. (c) hypothetical (d) classified
The rise in the Irrawaddy dolphin (1) ______ in Chilika can be 328. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.
attributed to the eviction of (2) ______ fish enclosures. After (a) enhancement (b) anticipation
thousands of hectares of Chilika lake were made (3) ______ free, (c) adaptation (d) monitoring
Irrawaddy dolphins found unobstructed area for movement. (4)
______, due to the COVID-19 lockdown last year, there were DIRECTIONS (Qs. 329-333) :Read the given passage and answer
comparatively fewer tourist boats on Chilika lake, which made it the questions that follow.
(5) ______ for dolphins to move from one part of the lake to In digital environments, social media means interaction between
another. (SSC CGL 2021-22) individuals in which they generate, communicate and transfer
319. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no.1. thoughts and knowledge. Being social has become a fundamental
(a) population (b) clan need, demonstrating the effectiveness of humans. People who
(c) natives (d) inhabitants were unheard are now able to access information and have a
320. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no.2. voice because of the magnificent advancements in communication
(a) unwarranted (b) illegal systems. The present generation has the privilege of witnessing
(c) illegitimate (d) unconstitutional some of the most incredible technological advancements in the
321. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no.3. history of mankind. (SSC Stenographer 2022)
(a) trespass (b) confiscation 329. Identify a suitable title for the passage.
(c) intervention (d) encroachment (a) Media and Voices
322. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no.4. (b) Utility of Social Media
(a) Whereas (b) Moreover (c) Use of Social Media
(c) Nevertheless (d) However (d) Media and Communication
323. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank no.5. 330. Identify the tone of the passage.
(a) conducive (b) hurtful (a) Rational (b) Assertive
(c) detrimental (d) disturbing (c) Satirical (d) Scientific
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 324-328): In the following passage, some 331. Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word.
words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select Privilege
the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
(a) Prerogative (b) Disadvantage
Digital India can be the prime (1) ________ behind making a (c) Loss (d) Disabled
reality of the government’s promise of minimum government, 332. What does the word ‘social’ illustrate in the passage?
maximum governance. Such a transformation requires technology
(a) The subjectivity of humans
to be firmly (2) __________ into government, something that
the Digital India project lists as one of its foremost objectives. (b) The effectiveness of humans
Embedding technology into government (3) ________ will do (c) The growth of humans
three things; transform the government and make it more (d) The lack of humans
transparent and efficient, transform the lives of citizens especially 333. Identify the central theme of the passage.
those at the bottom of the (4), ________ pyramid and make our (a) Media and technology
economy more efficient and competitive. A 2014 McKinsey Global (b) Media and narration
Institute report predicts that the large-scale (5) _________ of (c) Facts and advantages of media
technology through Digital India positions India with the biggest
(d) Media and voice of the voiceless
opportunity yet to accelerate economic growth. (SSC CGL 2022)
324. Select the moat appropriate option to fill in blank number 1. DIRECTIONS (Qs. 334-338) :Read the given passage and answer
(a) impact (b) might the questions that follow.
(c) factors (d) force In the three days since schools reopened for junior students after
325. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2. two years, teachers are missing the familiar buzz in classrooms
and have found a section of students to be unusually quiet. Some
(a) inserted (b) ambedded
students are ‘withdrawn’, their social skills having been impacted
(c) planted (d) stuck by the long closure of schools. Teachers and counsellors are
326. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3. hopeful this would pass soon and till then they would have to be
(a) offices (b) details patient with the children and keep a close eye on their behaviour.
(c) processes (d) hierarchies “Children might have developed behavioural problems such as
screen addiction and restlessness. They might have become
Reading Comprehension 195

impulsive and are not attentive to lessons. Teacher shave to be In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read
proactive about the mental health of the child,” said the the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to
psychiatrist. (SSC Stenographer 2022) fill in each blank.
334. What does ‘keep a close eye’ mean, according to the context? Competition is a necessary prospect for (1)___________
(a) Ignorance individuals with particular qualities, but only those who can
(2)__________ their minds to work, work hard every day, and
(b) Constant observation prove themselves will be able to (3)_____________ this arduous
(c) A careless attitude battle. It’s a never-ending race to the finish line, and only those
(d) Blindness who put in the effort and dedication will make it to the end. The
335. What are the teachers missing after the schools reopened? outcome of any exam does not (4)__________ on the last day,
(a) Screen addiction and restlessness during your paper — your success is ensured with every morning
(b) Unusually quiet classroom environment that you put in work. Students must be aware of the tough
environment they are entering and prepare (5)______________
(c) Presence of students in order to improve their chances.
(d) Buzz in classrooms 339. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 1.
336. Which of the following describes the most appropriate (a) distinguished (b) distinguishes
meaning of ‘withdrawn’ according to the context? (c) distinguishing (d) distinguish
(a) Hyperactive (b) Aggressive 340. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 2.
(c) Idle (d) Lost in themselves (a) get (b) divert
(c) made (d) put
337. According to the psychiatrist, which type of problems might
341. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 3.
children have developed? (a) overcome (b) overload
(a) Retention (b) Punctuality (c) overpaid (d) overjoyed
(c) Behavioural problems (d) Physical problems 342. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.
338. How long has it been since the schools reopened? (a) awake (b) arise
(a) Two days (b) Three days (c) arrive (d) abase
343. Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.
(c) Two years (d) Three years
(a) reluctantly (b) consequently
DIRECTIONS (Qs. 339-343): fill in the blanks with the most (c) accordingly (d) exponentially
appropriate option. (SSC CHSL 2021-22)

HINTS & EXPLANATIONS

1. (a) Special words used in technical discussion have the 11. (b) The prize being discussed in awarded every year. The
chances of becoming part of common speech because third line of the passage clearly exhibits this fact.
thousands of such words are included in every large 12. (a) The passage discusses about the Nobel Prize because
dictionary. every year, it is given in six fields, namely, Physics,
2. (c) Since, the entire passage deals with words, technical Chemistry, Literature, Medicine or Physiology, Peace
vocabulary and dictionary etc. therefore, it can be and Economics.
concluded that the writer of this passage is a linguist. Magsaysay Award is given for transformative
3. (b) The passage primarily discusses technical terminology. leadership in Asia, Pulitzer Prize is given in the field of
4. (c) The average man often uses in his own vocabulary journalism and literature and Booker Prize is given to
what was once technical language not meant for him. novelists i.e. it is a literary prize.
5. (d) The last line of the passage reveals the increase in the 13. (c) Three fields of Science in which Nobel Prize is given
number of technical terms in the nomenclature of are– Physics, Chemistry and Medicine or Physiology.
government. Rest of the fields are non-Science.
6. (b) The Eradication of Small-pox 14. (a) The annual prize money amounts to £8000.
7. (b) To eliminate smallpox world-wide in ten years. 15. (d) Nobel Prize is awarded in all of the mentioned fields
8. (c) Isolation of victims and mass vaccinations given in the options.
9. (a) Previous projects had failed. 16. (c) The very first line of the passage reveals that we can
10. (c) Small-pox victims no longer die when they contract the become angry on someone’s opinion contrary to ours
disease only when our own opinion is not based on good reason
and we are aware of this subconsciously.
 196 Reading Comprehension

17. (a) ‘Your own contrary conviction’ refers to the fact that 59. (d) The sentence means that one should be strong minded.
you feel pity rather than anger. 60. (d) None of the options gives the correct reason as to why
18. (c) Conviction means a firmly held belief or opinion. all telephone numbers are wrong numbers. The author
19. (d) If someone maintains that two and two are five, you considers all telephone numbers as wrong numbers
feel pity because you feel sorry for his ignorance of because after an unanswered telephone ring, it will ring
the subject i.e. Arithmetic. continuously thereby, creating hindrance in the privacy
20. (d) The second sentence in the passage elaborates the of his own home.
hidden i.e. the main point in the first sentence. 61. (a) 62. (b) 63. (c) 64. (b) 65. (a)
21. (b) The phrase ‘on tenterhooks’ means a state of suspense 66. (c) 67. (b) 68. (d) 69. (a) 70. (d)
or agitation because of uncertainity about a future 71. (b) 72. (d) 73. (b) 74. (a) 75. (a)
event. 76. (b) 77. (d)
22. (d) The passage clearly shows that money alone can’t give 78. (a) Fish out of water = A person who feels uncomfortable
happiness. or awkward due to unfamiliar surrounding or situations.
23. (a) All these three points given in the option are discussed 79. (d) 80. (d) 81. (a) 82. (c)
in the passage. 83. (b) Baltimore Oriole is of 7 inches in length.
24. (c) ‘Contentment, the key of happiness’ suits the best as 84. (c) 85. (c) 86. (d) 87. (a) 88. (c)
the title of the passage. 89. (d) 90. (a) 91. (d) 92. (c) 93. (b)
25. (c) This fact is clearly mentioned in the passage. 94. (c) 95. (d) 96. (b) 97. (c) 98. (b)
26. (a) 27. (b) 28. (c) 29. (a) 30. (c) 99. (b) 100. (d)
31. (c) 32. (d) 33. (b) 34. (c) 35. (b) 101. (b) The writer felt unusually solitary because he was miss-
36. (c) 37. (b) 38. (d) 39. (b) 40. (d) ing the company of other holiday makers.
41. (b) The passage is about development dilemma 102. (c) "I left all signs of habitation behind me"
42. (d) Look at the sentence : The real problem is that course This means that he had come very far from places where
promoters view development as something which people lived.
primarily, takes place in a class room. 103. (b) It became darker than the writer expected because the
43. (a) Critical nights are longer in October than midsummer.
44. (d) Unprogressive 104. (b) The writer found it difficult to keep to the path because
45. (b) A (fixed) attitude of mind of poor visibility and grassy track.
46. (b) Self-discipline 105. (d) When he settled himself on the fork of the tree the
47. (c) Must change himself writer tried to sleep but without much success.
48. (d) A Gandhian who disciplines himself from within 106. (d) At the beginning of the passage, the writer expresses
49. (c) Man will one day die and become dust her opinion that in many countries progress is syn-
50. (a) A sum of individuals onymous with utmost cruelty to nature.
51. (a) Since, WHO has been established with a specific 107. (b) In the passage, the term 'exploiting' nature suggests
purpose, therefore, it is a specialised agency. 'sarcasm'.
52. (a) International means belonging to the whole world. 108. (b) Nehru objected to the phrase 'conquest of Everest' since
53. (c) From the fourth line of the passage, it is evident that it sounds pompous and boastful.
‘they’ refers to the international health workers. 109. (c) Gandhiji's statement 'It is decreasing in the jungles but
54. (d) This option best explains the meaning of the given it is increasing in the towns!' refers to man's selfish-
sentence in the question. ness.
55. (a) The author has discussed two possible ways of 110. (d) The writer is of the opinion that tribal people can be
preventing diseases viz. Vaccination and spraying of prevented from combing forest or food to provide em-
houses with poisonous substances. ployment and purchasing power for daily necessities.
56. (d) In the first paragraph, it is clearly mentioned that the 111. (b) A person naturally expresses his anger by responding
author considers telephone a pest and time waster. He aggressively.
is of the view that a telephone may create unnecessary 112. (d) Laws, social norms and common sense limits on how
suspense and anxiety. far we can take our anger.
57. (b) Second half of the first paragraph clearly explains this 113. (a) People should deal with their anger by expressing it
option and is the reason why he hates speaking in assertively.
public telephone booth. 114. (c) According to author, being assertive means to be
58. (c) The line explains one’s frustration when one goes to a respectful of yourself and others.
telephone booth. ‘........ Chilled by the cold look ..........’ 115. (a) One, according to author, can suppress his anger by
refers to the situation. holding his anger.
when one feels uneasy because the person next in the 116. (b) The passage throws light on how a well-means
queue looks at him restlessly. invention can be misunderstood.
Reading Comprehension 197

117. (c) The crowd was protesting against the newly invented 185. (d) The detective checked on the front door and because
sewing machine. the latch did not had any scratch or marks.
118. (d) The aim of the crowd was to destroy the sewing 186. (a) In good friendships, we receive as much as we give.
machines. 187. (b) Empathy means the ability to show and understand
119. (d) People thought they would be deprived of their the feelings of others.
livelihood. 188. (c) A strong friendship helps us gain acceptance and
120. (c) Shutters were being closed because the shopkeepers tolerance.
feared their shops would be destroyed. 189. (d) The very first line of the passage states that friendships
121. (d) 122. (a) 123. (d) 124. (b) 125. (d) and relationships grow when they are nurtured just
126. (d) 127. (c) 128. (b) 129. (a) 130. (c) like nurturing a plant.
131. (b) 132. (b) 133. (c) 134. (d) 135. (d) 190. (a) When we are with a good friend, we tend to be
136. (d) 137. (c) 138. (c) 139. (c) 140. (b) ourselves.
141. (b) 142. (c) 143. (a) 144. (d) 145. (a) 191. (d) The third line of the passage states that-Dickens
146. (b) 147. (d) 148. (d) 149. (b) 150. (c) became famous for depicting the life of the working
151. (b) Modern means of entertainment and communication class, intricate plots and sense of humour.
does not affect street theatre. It is still a popular mode 192. (a) Dicken's characters were drawn from everyday life and
of taking up crucial societal issues. the world around him.
152. (a) In the olden days, street theatre was restricted to 193. (b) In the second last line of the paragraph, it is clearly
villages or small localities of the cities. mentioned that John Foster was Dickens' friend and
153. (c) Street theatre usually deals with issues of public biographer.
importance. 194. (b) The period between 1837 – 1901 is known as the
154. (c) Street theatre is reasonable to stage as little props and Victorian Age.
images are used and not huge set up is required. 195. (c) The word 'popular' in the passage means successful.
155 (b) Street theatre creates an emotional impact on audiences 196. (c) Chameleons change colour when they are afraid, excited
that leads to quick psychological impact. or angry.
156. (a) In self directed learning, an individual takes initiative 197. (a) It is clearly mentioned in the paragraph that almost half
with or without the help of others to learn new things. of the world's Chameleons are found on the African
157. (b) There is need for self-directed learning because it helps island of Madagascar.
people to learn more things in a better way. 198. (d) The colour changing ability of a Chameleon is a form
158. (a) Self-directed learning is active learning as one does of camouflage which is a disguise that lets it blend in
not sit passively and waits for someone to teach. The with its surroundings.
learner actively initiates its own learning process. 199. (a) A Chameleon's colour changes to help it avoid its
159. (b) The modern environment is instructive in nature. enemies.
160. (c) Diagnosing means identifying. 200. (b) The colour change is determined by light and
161. (b) 162. (a) 163. (a) 164. (d) 165. (c) temperature.
166. (d) 167. (a) 168. (d) 169. (b) 170. (d) 201. (d) 202. (a) 203. (b) 204. (a) 205. (a)
171. (c) 172. (a) 173. (c) 174. (b) 175. (a) 206. (c) 207. (a) 208. (b) 209. (d) 210. (a)
176. (b) The people saw the golden pitcher in a lake nearby. 211. (d) Austria is not mentioned in the passage.
177. (b) The emperor's orders were that all the old men should 212. (a) The Antarctic Treaty was signed in 1959 for creating
leave his land. the rules for exploration of Antarctica.
178. (b) A handful of water. 213. (d) the Antarctic Treaty bans nuclear testing and dumping
179. (a) The emperor feared getting old. of nuclear waste and creates rules for exploration of
180. (c) The emperor was upset to see the old man because it Antarctica. Its main aim is to protect the continent.
reminded him that he would grow old too. 214. (c) Environmentalists fear that exploiting Antarctica for
181. (b) Ms. Gervis is unable to understand the mystery about military and economic reasons will damage the
how the robber got in and out of the house. environment.
182. (c) The robber stole the cakes that Ms. Grevis baked for 215. (b) Economic experts claim that there are large amounts of
giving. coal, nickel and copper under the Antarctic ice.
183. (d) When Mr. Grevis got to know that the cakes she baked 216. (b) Music is often linked to mood. A certain song can make
for giving are stolen; she was devastated and decided us feel happy, sad, energetic, or relaxed.
to quit baking. The detective was worried for who will 217. (a) Music helps one feel different emotions. Based on the
bake the delicious cakes if she quits baking, thus, he mood, a certain song can make us feel happy, sad,
decides to solve the case quickly. energetic, or relaxed.
184. (d) Ms. Grevis was shivering with fear that she had robbers 218. (d) All forms of music may have therapeutic effects,
at her home. although music from one's own culture may be most
effective.
 198 Reading Comprehension

219. (b) Because music can have such an impact on a person's 242. (a) It can be inferred from the last paragraph of the
mindset and well-being, it should come as no surprise passage.
that music therapy has been studied for use in managing 243. (a) It can be concluded from the passage.
numerous medical conditions. 244. (d) It is clearly mentioned in the second sentence of the
220. (d) In Chinese medical theory, the five internal organs and passage.
meridian systems are believed to have corresponding 245. (a) The idiom 'beat around the bush' means 'to talk about a
musical tones, which are used to encourage healing. lot of unimportant things'.
221. (b) Approximately half of India's 1.2 billion people are under 246. (b) It is clearly mentioned in the passage.
the age of 26. 247. (d) It is clearly mentioned in the second paragraph of the
222. (c) The reason for such high numbers can be attributed to passage.
lack of economic, social, and emotional resources. 248. (a)
223. (d) By 2020, India is forecasted to be the youngest country 249. (b) This can clearly be inferred from the first sentence of
in the world, with a median age of 29 years. the passage.
224. (a) The clash of values within families is an important 250. (d) 'Leave no stone unturned' is a phrase which means ‘try
factor. As young Indians become more progressive, every possible course of option in order to achieve
their traditionalist households become less supportive something’.
of their choices pertaining to financial independence, 251. (a) It is evident from the first and last paragraph of the
marriage age, premarital sex, rehabilitation and taking passage. The whole passage talks about the effect of
care of the elderly. climate change on the colour of the oceans.
225. (c) Youth can be prevented from committing suicide by 252. (d) It is clearly mentioned in the five sentence of the
creating an environment that which promotes positive passage.
well being. 253. (d) It is clearly mentioned in the third last paragraph of the
226. (b) Murali was a vendor of sweets. passage.
227. (a) Murali's main customers were children. 254. (c) It is clearly mentioned in the second last paragraph of
228. (d) At the stroke of nine in the morning, Murali would the passage.
stand in front of the school with his tray of sweets. 255. (c) It is no where mentioned in the paragraph.
229. (c) Till about eleven, the sale would be brisk. 256. (c) 'Can be' takes a simple past tense. Thus, we have
230. (b) There was depression in his business when the 'defined' as the answer.
holidays came. 257. (a) 'Of' is used to show possession, belonging or origin.
231. (b) Most medium sized peaks in the Europe are accessed 258. (d) 'From' is used as a starting point, removal or separation.
by car or air. Expeditionary climbing is popular in 259. (b) Does is the third person singular in the present tense
Himalayas. Himalayan base camp treks take days or of do. If we were to use did it would become incorrect
even weeks to trek to. European and North American as did not would make for past tense and we are talking
mountains can be climbed in short time scale. more generally here and thus take present tense form
232. (c) Since, Himalayan mountains takes weeks or months to and hence, does not.
climb, large amount of personnel and food supplies is 260. (c) contextually and grammatically the response is 'most'.
necessary. 261. (c) Fibres (plural) will take a plural that is, are. Also, it's a
233. (b) Expedition mountaineering can be considered as slow present tense.
(Because it takes few weeks to months to climb the 262. (a) Option (a) is the correct response -"large number of
mountain) and heavy (because of the additional food consumer". Here, large and consumer are both hints
supplies required to be carried while climbing). that a good number of consumers are being referred to.
234. (c) The specific nature of Himalayan mountains accounts 263. (d) Industrial products have been mentioned and later a
for greater expedition mountaineering there. number of garments are mentioned as well. The
235. (d) Large and isolated peeks are best for expedition moun- implication is that industrial products like these
taineering. garments etc. so the word we use for it is 'including'
236. (b) It is clearly mentioned in the passage. garments like these.
237. (d) It is clearly mentioned in the first sentence of the last 264. (c) Home furnishings like these and these are mentioned,
paragraph of the passage. the word for it is 'such as'.
238. (a) It can be inferred from the first-half of the second-last 265. (a) The rest of the options don't make sense so we use
paragraph of the passage. option (a) -'industrial' parts.
239. (c) 266. (a) To is used for expressing motion towards a place etc.
240. (d) It is clearly mentioned in the first sentence of the Here, we use ‘To buy’. Buying is present continuous
second-last paragraph of the passage. so it gets cancelled. Bought is past tense and thus
241. (c) It is clearly mentioned in the first paragraph of the cancelled. And buy simple present and so cancelled
passage. to.
Reading Comprehension 199

267. (c) Option number three is the correct response. Based on 286. (d) Based on the context the answer is 'carefully' as a
the context of the passage, we get the idea that Bipin uniform is kept carefully only and not otherwise.
Chaudhry is a male. The reason we choose ‘He’ and 287. (a) 'sometimes' is the correct answer as the uniform is in
not ‘Him’ is because he is the subjective case of the the basement and can only be taken out sometimes -
pronoun that is seen when the pronoun performs an for not being in reach.
action. It is when the pronoun receives an action that 288. (d) There is an explanation provided so we use 'because.'
its objective case is used, and we see him instead of he 289. (a) past continuous tense is used here.
in the sentence. 290. (d) Father-is a singular noun and male thus, his.
268. (a) Through means continuing in time towards completion 291. (d) 'who' is used here to refer to the subject.
of (a process or period). Thus the answer is through 292. (b) Complications-means health issues.
the week. 293. (a) 'home' here suggest that he died 'inside' it.
269. (d) The answer is friends based on the context which 294. (c) Paragraph two, lines 4-5 have the answer.
suggests that this person was not a good mixer and 295. (a) Line one of the passage says 'for the weekend'
therefore had few friends. suggesting two days.
270. (c) Intuition means gut feeling, but takes the article an 296. (d) The fourth line of the passage has the answer.
with it, so this is not the response. Perception means 297. (c) Lines two-three have the answer, according to which
how one sees things as. So this too isn’t appropriate the narrator's cousin's wife dropped the them to the
here. Connotation means implication so cant be used airport.
here. Therefore, we choose feeling. 298. (c) The last line of paragraph one has the answer.
271. (b) During means- a period of time or through the course 299. (a) Looked death in the eye means to face it bravely.
of. The rest of the options don't make grammatically 300. (d) Lines one -two of the third paragraph have the answer.
sound choices. Therefore, the answer is during. 301. (d) Fifth line of the first paragraph has the answer.
272. (b) The act of talking is mentioned and the subject of the 302. (d) a,b and d can be found in the paragraph but not other
talk is also mentioned-Cuba's literacy program. options.
Therefore, with the given hints we choose 'about', as 303. (d) The last line of the passage has the answer.
one talks about a given topic. 304. (b) The passage details the history of soap.
273. (c) 'Where teachers, students and volunteers... in a well 305. (b) The first line of the passage has the answer.
organised, massive nationwide literacy movement.' The 306. (b) Four-five lines of paragraph one have the answer.
sentence itself gives hints that the given people 307. (d) Line four of paragraph one details the ingredients of
collaborated together in this mission or movement. Of soap and glycerin is not one of them.
the given options we cannot choose collaborate as it's 308. (a ) Fifth line of paragraph three has the answer.
not in past tense, while the passage is in past tense. 309. (b) preposition 'on' is the correct response. This is because
Therefore, we choose 'joined hands' as it means the when talking about places 'on' is used when we are
same. speaking about a surface.
274. (a) 'Reached out to' is the correct response as it's in simple 310. (c) Of 70.000 miles per hour is suggestive of speech.
past tense. 311. (a) 'which' is used to refer to something previously
275. (a) The word successful is a positive word and works as a mentioned when introducing a clause giving further
hint and we look for a positive word to go with it, information.
which is; exceedingly. All the other options don't have 312. (c) 'were to' can be used in the future to emphasize that the
such a positive connotation. conditional form is extremely unlikely.
276. (c) The word 'these' indicates a plural and thus 'times'. 313. (a) 'Than' is used to introduce the second element in a
277. (a) The word workers indicate a plural pronoun and thus, comparison.
'they'. 314. (b) The last line of the passage has the answer.
278. (d) The answer is 'without' proper protective gear as the 315. (a) The answer is in the fifth line of the passage.
context suggests that they are at a risk. 316. (a) Paragraph three line number one says " big predators
279. (d) 'In' here indicates- It is used to suggest an involvement like lions and tigers are created to hunt and chase.
or connection with a particular subject or activity. 317. (d) Burrowing animals "In some zoos, we see concrete
280. (c) 'A good sum of money' suggests or hints to 'sold.' floors for burrowing animals like rabbits."
281. (b) Aptly means in a manner that is appropriate. 318. (c) The first line of the passage has the answer.
282. (a) Based on the context of the passage the answer is 319. (a) “population” fits the blank appropriately; Population
'contribute'. typically refers to the number of people/animals in a
283. (d) The rest of the options don't fit in and thus we have single area, whether it be a city or town, region,
'important' also the answer is context based. country, continent, or the world.
284. (d) About-means 'on the subject of; concerning. 320. (b) “illegal” fits the blank appropriately; it means-
285. (c) Uniform means dress. The line 'medals pinned to it..' contrary to or forbidden by law, especially criminal
suggests it's a uniform. law
 200 Reading Comprehension

321. (d) “encroachment” fits the blank appropriately; it means; 333. (d) The passage is not primarily about media and
it means- a gradual advance beyond usual or acceptable ‘technology’ or ‘narration’. There are no scientific facts
limits in the passage as such. From the beginning, the
322. (b) “moreover” fits the blank appropriately; it means- as a paragraph focuses on effectiveness of humans and
further matter; besides. communication advancements. In this context the
323. (a) “conducive” fits the blank appropriately; it means- mention of voice of the voiceless in the line ‘People
making a certain situation or outcome likely or possible. who were unheard are now able to access information
324. (d) Force means –power and influence. ‘force’ is more and have a voice because of the magnificent
suitable as per the correct meaning. advancements in communication systems’, can be
325. (b) Embedded means –to enclose closely in. ‘Embedded’ is regarded as the central theme of the passage.
more suitable as per the correct meaning. 334. (b) The idiom ‘To keep a close eye’ on something means to
326. (c) Processes means –a series of action. ‘processes’ is more observe something carefully. Thus, option (b) is the
suitable as per the correct meaning. correct answer.
327. (b) ‘The bottom of the proverbial pyramid’ means - the
335. (d) It is clearly mentioned in the passage that the ‘teachers
largest, but poorest socio-economic group.
are missing the familiar buzz in classroom’.
‘Proverbial’ is more suitable as per the correct meaning.
328. (c) Adaptation means- the process of adapting to 336. (d) It is mentioned in the passage that the students were
something. ‘Adaptation’ is more suitable as per the ‘unusually quiet’ after the school reopened. They were
correct meaning. not hyperactive, aggressive or idle but ‘withdrawn’.
329. (b) ‘Utility of Social Media’ is the most appropriate title for They were not willing to participate or indulge properly.
the passage because the paragraph mentions more than In other words, they were ‘lost in themselves’.
just uses of social media. It highlights, for example, how 337. (c) It is clearly mentioned in the passage that the ‘children
social media plays an important role in demonstrating might have developed behavioural problems’.
the effectiveness of humans. Thus, ‘utility’ in option 338. (b) The passage begins with ‘In the three days since the
(b) conveys the gist of the passage. schools reopened...’ Thus option (b) is the right answer.
330. (a) The tone of the passage is ‘rational’ for it makes a logical 339. (c) Option (c) is correct as individuals with different
and a sensible argument. Neither is the author stating a qualities have been mentioned here.
strong opinion nor is he providing any specific scientific
340. (d) Put your mind means: to decide you are going to do
evidence or theory. Thus, the tone is not assertive or
something and to put a lot of effort into doing it. Ex- If
scientific. The author is not indirectly attacking
you’d just put your mind to it, I’m sure you could do it.
someone, so no satire is being used. Therefore, option
(a) is the correct option. 341. (a) Overcome means to win over difficulties, hence it is
331. (b) The word ‘Privilege’ means advantages or special kind the most appropriate answer.
of rights. Th e correct opposite of the word is 342. (c) As per the context of the passage, arrive is correct.
‘disadvantage’. 343. (c) Accordingly is apt option as it means: suitably and
332. (b) The following line from the passage provides the answer correspondingly.
– ‘Being social has become a fundamental need,
demonstrating the effectiveness of humans.’
 Essential English
Grammar
Grammar is the key to attaining success in a competitive nouns have the same form both in singular as well as
examination. If you want success in a competitive exam, it is plural forms.
important to have a good command of grammar and its FOLLOWINGARE RULES REGARDING THE NUMBER OF
applications. No matter how hard you prepare for your THE NOUN
competitive exams, you can never be too sure of your success. 2. For example :
Before sitting for an examination, it is important to evaluate yourself, (a) Deer was caught (b) Deer were caught.
where you stand and how much chances of your success are. In Here, the singular and plural form of the noun Deer is the
the English section of a competitive exam, the kind of questions same. Like Deer there are other nouns that have the same
likely to be asked can be categorised in three parts form in singular as well as plural form. For example:
(1) Fill in the blanks; sheep, deer, apparatus, species, series, hundred, dozen,
(2) Identifying errors in sentences and hair etc. Preceding adjectives and articles decide whether
(3) Correcting the sentences. the word is used in the singular form or plural form.
The questions can be dealt with easily and you can score well For example :
if you get your basics clear and right. (a) He paid eight hundred rupees for this pair of shoes.
HOW THIS BOOK WILL HELP YOU? (b) India again lost the series.
Nouns denoting large numbers are used both in singular
This book will help you to understand how language and its and plural form.
components work. It is oriented towards making you more 3. For example:
confident user of English by giving you an insight into the (a) Three hundred people attended the function.
correct usage. The material provided is user-friendly with (b) Hundreds of people attended the party.
adequate examples and ‘practice exercises’. In sentence a), ‘hundred’ is preceded by number ‘three’.
If you make a concentrated effort, it will not only prepare you So ‘hundred’ will take no plural form. Word ‘three hundred’
for the forthcoming competitive exams but also fine-tune your indicates plurality . But in sentence b), ‘hundred’ is not
communication skills. preceded by any number. So to indicate plurality , we will
write ‘hundreds’. So, rule is that when words like
READING: To supplement your efforts, you should build up hundred, dozen, thousand, pair, score are not preceded
reading habits. The material can be of any kind - magazines, by any word denoting number then they take the plural
newspapers or novels. But, one should consciously look at the form. Otherwise not.
usage. Good reading habits will definitely build up your Consider some more examples :
understanding of grammatical usage and help you succeed in (a) Coca-Cola paid lakhs of rupees to Aamir Khan for
competitive exams.
promoting their product.
We wish you all the best in your endeavour. (b) I brought two dozen bananas.
4. Tell which sentence is correct:
NOUNS (a) Since long no news has been heard.
A Noun is a word used as a name of a person, place or thing. (b) Since long no news have been heard.
There are five kinds of Noun : Sentence (a) is correct. The reason is that some nouns
(a) Proper Noun (b) Common Noun are always used as singular though they look like plural
(c) Collective Noun (d) Abstract Noun nouns. That’s why we should never use the ‘plural verb
(e) Material Noun with these words. Other similar words are politics,
mathematics, physics, gallows, means, billiards, ethics,
GRAMMAR REGARDING NOUNS THAT WORLD BE summons, innings.
USEFUL IN A COMPLETE EXAM : For example :
1. Proper nouns are sometimes used as common nouns.
(a) Politics is not my cup of tea.
For example :
(b) I received summons.
(a) Amitabh is Gandhiji of our class. (Incorrect)
(c) Sachin once again played a superb innings.
(b) Amitabh is the Gandhiji of our class, (Correct) 5. Tell which sentence is correct:
Here Gandhiji does not mean Mahatma Gandhi. The word (a) The spectacles that you are wearing are really nice.
here stands for the possessor of the qualities that Gandhiji (b) The spectacles that you are wearing is really nice.
is most known for - truth and non-violence. Thus Gandhiji
Sentence (a) is correct. The reason being that some noun
is being used as a metaphorical common noun. Some
words are always used in the plural form.
202 Essential English Grammar

For example : trousers, arms, drawers, assets, scales, alms, FOLLOWINGARE RULES REGARDING GENDER OFTHE
thanks, cards; ashes, riches, premises, scissors, NOUN :
credentials, proceeds. 9. Go through the following singulars and plurals as plural
6. Tell which sentence is correct: forms are commonly known but their singular forms are
(a) The cattle was grazing in the field. not commonly kown.
(b) The cattle were grazing in the field. Singular Form Plural form
Sentence (b) is correct .The reason being that some nouns
are always used as plurals though they look like singular. Agendum Agenda
Other nouns like this are—public, people, folk, mankind, Alumnus Alumni
poultry, sheep, and police. gentry, peasantry, bulk, Index Indices
majority.
For example: Phenomenon Phenomena
(a) The majority are with the leader. Criterion Criteria
(b) Police, though late, have come. Radius Radii
(c) Public wants results.
7. Tell which sentence is correct. Formula Formulae
(a) This project will lead to lots of expenditures. Memorandum Memoranda
(b) This project will lead to lots of expenditure.
10. Some noun words have two plurals with different
Sentence (b) is correct. The reason is that some nouns
meanings. So that plural form should be selected which
are always used as singular. Preceding adjectives or the
will convey the right meaning.
verb form indicates the singularity or plurality. Other
For example :
nouns are–expenditure, furniture, information, machinery,
(a) I have one brother and one sister (meaning- sons of
issue, offspring, alphabet, scenery, poetry.
the same parents).
For example :
(b) Why should only select brethren be allowed to
(a) All the furniture was bought last year.
attend the meeting? (meaning - members of same
(b) All the Information was given to him.
society, organisation)
8. Meaning of some nouns in plural form is very different
(c) I took off my shoes and clothes (meaning- things
from the meaning of nouns in singular form. Hence, that
that people wear).
form should be used which will convey the right meaning.
(d) Cotton, Nylon, Silk are different kinds of cloths
For example:
(meaning- kinds or pieces of cloth).
(a) I opened the letter and read its contents.
Other nouns having two plurals with different meanings
(b) Her mouth was fixed in a smile of pure content.
are.
(c) The conflict between good and evil is age old.
(d) We must produce goods at competitive prices. Singular Plural with different meaning
(e) Delhites breathe the most polluted air in the world. Die Dies - stamps
(f) She was just putting on airs when she came to visit
us/me. Dice - small cubes used in games
(g) We should renounce the use of force to settle our Genius Geniuses-persons of great talent
dispute. Genie - spirit
(h) Families of people who died as a result of services in
Quarter Quarter - fourth part
the forces should not be ignored.
(i) I was very excited on my return to my home village. Quarter(s) - lodging
(j) Early returns in the ballot indicate majority for Manner Manner - Method
opposition.
Manners - Correct behaviour
Vocabulary
Other nouns having different meanings in the singular Pain Pain - Suffering
and plural form are: Pains - Careful efforts
Singular with meaning Plural with meaning Spectacle Spectacle - sight
Advice - counsel Advices - information Spectacles - eye-glasses
Respect - regard Respects - compliments Penny Pence-indicate amount of money
Compass - extent Compasses - instrument or range Pennies number of coins
Custom - habit Customs - duties levied on 11. Collective nouns, even when they denote living beings,
Ground - Earth Grounds - reasons are considered to be of the neuter gender.
Iron - metal Iro ns - fetters made of iron
For example :
(a) Lalu had a herd of cows. He kept a herdsman to look
Mean - average Means - way or method after her.
Respect - regard Respects - polite greetings (b) Lalu had a herd of cows. He kept a herdsman to look
Colour - hue Colours - appearance after it.
Physic - medicine Physics - natural science Sentence (b) is correct. Though herd consists of cows
(females), herd is not a feminine noun as it a collective noun.
Essential English Grammar 203

12. Young children and the lower animals are also referred to bodyguard, horse’s head, Nature’s law, Fortune’s
as of the neuter gender. favourite.
For example : (f) ’s is not used with inanimate or non-living things.
(a) The baby loves his toys. (Incorrect) For example:
(b) The baby loves its toys. (correct) table’s leg (incorrect)
(c) The mouse lost his tail when the cat pounced on leg of the table (correct)
him. (Incorrect) book’s cover (incorrect)
We are often uncertain regarding the gender of the cover of the book (correct)
animals. The mouse here may be a male or a female. So, (g) But nouns that denote time, distance or weight, (’s)
English language prefers the easy way out: treat it as of is used. For example: a stone’s throw, in a year’s
the neuter gender. time, the earth’s surface.
13. When objects without life are personified they are (h) Some other common phrases where (’s) is used are : to
considered of: his heart’s content, at his wit’s end, out of harm’s way.
(i) The masculine gender, if the object is remarkable for (i) When a noun consists of several words, the
strength and violence. Ex. : Sun, Summer, Winter, possessive sign is attached only to the last word.
Time, Death etc. For example:
(ii) The feminine gender, if the object is remarkable for (a) The Queen’s of England reaction is important
beauty, gentleness and gracefulness. Ex: Earth, in the Diana episode. (Incorrect)
Moon, Spring, Nature, Mercy, etc. (b) The Queen of England’s reaction is important
For example: in the Diana episode. (Correct)
(a) The Sun came from behind the clouds and with Do not be mistaken that since it is the Queen’s
her brilliance tore the veil of darkness. (Incorrect) reaction, the (’s) should come after Queen. You might
(b) The Sun came from behind the clouds and with think that putting it after England would make the
his brilliance tore the veil of darkness. (Correct) reaction England’s and not the Queen’s. This is
Convention does not see brilliance as a womanly shortsightedness. Do not see Queen and England in
quality, but a manly one. isolation, Queen of England is one whole unit and
(a) Nature offers his lap to him that seeks it. the apostrophe should come at its end.
(Incorrect) (j) When two nouns are in apposition, the possessive
(b) Nature offers her lap to him that seeks it. (Correct) sign is put to the latter only.
The offering of a lap is usually the mother’s role. Hence, For example :
Nature here should be treated as a feminine noun. (a) I am going to Stephen Hawking’s the scientist’s
Tell which sentence is correct. country. (Incorrect)
(a) The earth goes round the sun in 365 days. Can (b) I am going to Stephen Hawking the scientist’s
you calculate her speed? country. (Correct)
(b) The earth goes round the sun in 365 days. Can (k) When two or more nouns show joint possession,
you calculate its speed? the possessive sign is put to the latter only.
Sentence (b) is correct. The error being made here is that For example:
personification is being brought where it does not exist. (a) Amitabh and Ajitabh are Bachchanji’s sons. So
In the above statement the earth is being treated as a Bachclaanji is Amitabh’s and Ajitabh’s father.
body (a thing), not a person. The scientist here is not (Incoreect)
concerned with the womanly qualities of the planet. So, (b) Amitabh and Ajitabh are Bachchanji’s sons. So
neuter gender should be applied. Bachchanji is Amitabh and Ajitabh’s father.
(Correct)
FOLLOWINGARE RULES REGARDINGAPOSTROPHE
(l) When two or more nouns show separate possession,
14. Rules regarding apostrophes—s: the possessive sign is put with both.
(a) Singular noun: We add(s) (apostrophe s’) to singular For example.
nouns and to irregular plurals that don't end in – s: (a) The audience listened to Javed and Vajpayee’s
• Barry’s house, the college’s faculty, the women's poems. (Incorrect)
liberation movement. (b) The audience listened to Javed’s and Vajpayee’s
(b) Singular noun: Only an apostrophe is added when poems. (Correct)
there are too many hissing sounds. For example:
Moses’ laws, for goodness’ sake, for justice’ sake. PRONOUNS
(c) Plural nouns ending in (s) like boys, cows: add(’) (an
A pronoun is a word used instead of a noun.
apostrophe) to regular plurals.
NOW CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING CASES
• The boys’ football club, the students union, the
1. Since a pronoun is used instead of a Noun, it must be of
labours’ movement.
the same number, gender and person as the noun for which
(d) Plural nouns not ending in (s) like men, children: (’s)
it stands. For example: Those beggars are idle. They
is added after the word.
refuse to work for their living.
• men’s club, children’s wear
2. Consider the following two sentences.
(e) ’s is added primarily after the living things and
(a) After a few anxious moments; the jury gave its verdict
personified objects. For example: Governor’s
(Pronoun ‘its is used in place of noun jury’).
204 Essential English Grammar

(b) The jury were divided in their opinions. (Pronoun 10. When a pronoun refers to more than one noun or
‘their’ is used in place of noun ‘jury’) pronouns of different persons, it must be of the first person
You must be wondering why different pronoun its’ and plural in preference to the second and of the second
‘their’ is used in place of the same noun ‘jury’ The reason person plural in preference to the third.
is when a pronoun stands for a collective noun it must be For example :
in the singular number and neutral gender. (Sentence (a). (a) You and I, husband and wife, have to look after your
But when collective noun conveys the idea of separate home. (Incorrect)
individuals comprising the whole, the pronoun standing (b) You and I, husband and wife, have to look after our
for it must be of the plural number. In sentence (b), it is home. (Correct)
clear that members of the jury are not behaving as a whole. Now, common sense tells us that if we are a couple, wife
For example : and husband, the feeling of togetherness is expressed by
(a) The committee is reconsidering its decision. our home, not your home. And so does grammar.
(b) The committee decided the matter without leaving Rule: 123. I stands for first person, 2 for second person
their seats. and 3 for third person. The order of precedence is: 1 before
PRONOUNS IN SENTENCES FOUND BY CONJUNCTION 2 and 2 before 3. In the given example, we have 2 and 1. So
3. When two or more singular nouns are joined by ‘and’, the I will apply; that is, first person. The number, of course,
pronoun used for them must be plural. will be plural.
For example : Rama and Hari work hard. Their teachers Let us take another example.
praise them. (a) You and Hari have done their duty. (Incorrect)
But when two Singular nouns joined by ‘and’ refer to the (b) You and Hari have done your duty. (Correct)
same person or thing, the pronoun should be singular. Applying 123 rule. You = 2 and Hari =3. So, 2. Second
For example : The Secretary and Treasurer is negligent person plural gives ‘your’.
of his duty. Similarly, when all the three persons are taken into account,
Here the same person is acting as Secretary and Treasurer. it has to be I; that is, first person plural.
That’s why singular pronoun is used. (a) You, he and I have not forgotten your roots.
4. When two singular nouns joined by ‘and’ are preceded (Incorrect)
by ‘each’ or ‘every’, then the pronoun must be singular (b) You, he and I have not forgotten our roots. (Correct)
For example : Every soldier and every sailor was in his place. 11. Each, either and neither are always singular and are
5. When two or more singular nouns are joined by ‘or’, followed by the verb in the singular.
‘either...or’, ‘neither...nor’, the pronoun is generally singular. For example :
For example : (a) Neither of the accusations is true.
(a) Neither Abdul nor Rehman has done his lessons. (b) Each boy took his turn.
(b) Either Rama or Hari must help his friend. (c) Each of the lady performs her duty well.
6. When a plural and a singular noun are joined by ‘or’ or 12. (A) Please consider the following sentences.
‘nor’, the pronoun must be in the plural (a) This is the boy. He works hard. (He subjective
For example : Either the manager or his assistants failed case)
in their duty. (b) This is the boy. His exercise is done well. (His
7. When two things which have been already mentioned is possessive case)
are referred to; ‘this’ refers to the thing last mentioned (c) This is the boy. All praise him. (Him is objective
and ‘that’ to the thing first mentioned.
case)
For example : Alcohol and Tobacco are both injurious: 13. An apostrophe is never used in ‘its’, ‘yours’ and ‘theirs’.
this perhaps less than that. 14. The complement of the verb be, when it is expressed by a
RULES REGARDING PERSONAL PRONOUNS pronoun should be in the nominative form.
8. Tell which sentence is correct: For example.
(a) The presents are for you and me. (a) It was he (not him),
(b) The presents are for you and I. (b) It is I (not me) that gave the prizes away.
Sentence (a) is correct. Pronoun has to agree with the (c) It might have been he (not him).
case. Here it is the objective case. So, ‘me’ should be used 15. The case of a pronoun following than or as is determined
instead of ‘I’. For example : My uncle asked my brother by mentally supplying the verb.
and me to dinner. For example :
9. Tell which sentence is correct: (a) He is taller than I (am).
(a) He loves you more than I. (b) I like you better than he (likes you).
(b) He loves you more than me. (c) They gave him as much as (they gave) me.
Sentence (a) is correct ‘Than’ is a conjunction joining 16. A pronoun must agree with its Antecedent in person,
clauses. And the case of the pronoun to be used may be number and gender.
found by writing the clauses in full. So, in sentence (a) For example:
two clauses joined by ‘than’ are ‘He loves you more’ and (a) All passengers must show their (not his) tickets.
‘I love you’. Being a subjective case, ‘I’ should be used. (b) I am not one of those who believe everything they
For example: (not I) hear.
(a) He is taller than I (am).
(b) He loves you more than (he loves) me.
Essential English Grammar 205

RULES REGARDING DEMONSTRATIVE PRONOUNS (a) There is Mr. Dutt, who (not whom) they say is the
17. That is used best painter in the town.
A. After adjectives in the superlative degree. (b) The Student, whom (not who) you thought so highly
For example. of, has failed to win the first prize.
(a) This is the best that we can do. 26. When the subject of a verb is a relative pronoun, the
(b) He is the best speaker that we ever heard. verb should agree in number and person with the
B. After the words all, same, any, none, nothing, only antecedent of the relative.
For example: For example :
(a) Man is the only animal that can talk. (a) This is one of the most interesting novels that have
(b) He is the same man that he has been. (not has) appeared this year. (Here, antecedent of
C. After two antecedents, one denoting a person and relative pronoun that is novels and not one)
the other denoting an animal or a thing. (b) This is the only one of his poems that is (not are)
For example : The man and the pet that met with an worth reading. (Here the antecedent of that is one
accident yesterday died today. and not poems. Note the difference between sentence
18. What and That refer to persons as well as things. (a) and (b).
RULES REGARDING RELATIVE PRONOUNS OTHER USEFUL RULES
19. On combining each of the above pairs into one sentence 27. None is used in the singular or plural as the sense may
(a) This is the boy who works hard. require.
(Who in place of He) For example:
(b) This is the boy whose exercise is done well. (a) Each boy was acompanied by an adult but there were
(Whose in place of His) none with the orphan. (Incorrect)
(c) This is the boy whom all praise. (b) Each boy was accompanied by an adult but there
(Whom in place of Him) was none with the orphan. (Correct)
The above sentences show when to use who, whose and (c) I am used to many guests everyday but there was
whom. Who is the subjective case, Whose the possessive none today. (Incorrect)
case and Whom the objective case. (d) I am used to many guests everyday but there were
20. Who is used for persons only. It may refer to a singular or none today. (Correct)
plural noun. 28. When ‘one’ is used as pronoun, its possessive form ‘one’s’
For example : should follow instead of his, her etc.
(a) He who hesitates is lost. For example : One must put one’s best efforts if one wishes
(b) Blessed is he who has found his work. to succeed.
21. Whose can be used for persons as well as things without 29. With let objective case of the pronoun is used.
life also. For example : Let you and me do it.
For example : 30. If a pronoun has two antecedents, it should agree with
(a) This is the hotel whose owner is a criminal. the nearer one.
(b) This is the person whose willpower is extraordinary. For example :
22. Which is used for inanimate things and animals. Which (a) I hold in high esteem everything and everybody who
is used for both singular as well as plural noun. reminds me of my failures.
For example : (b) I hold in high esteem everybody and everything,
(a) I have found the book which I had lost last week. which reminds me of my failures.
(b) The horse which won the race yesterday, is my 31. In referring to anybody, everybody, anyone, each etc., the
favourite. pronoun of the masculine or the feminine gender is used
23. When ‘which’ is used for selection, it may refer to a person according to the context.
as well as things. For example.
For example : (a) I shall be glad to help everyone of my boys in his
(a) Which of the packets is yours? studies.
(b) Which of the boys has not done his homework? (b) I shall be glad to help everyone of my girls in her
24. Who, Which, Whom, That, Whose should be placed as studies.
near to the antecedent as possible. (c) I shall be glad to help everyone of my students in
For example : his studies.
(a) I with my family reside in Delhi, which consists of But when gender is not determined, the pronoun of
my wife and parents. (Incorrect) the masculine gender is used as in sentence (c).
This sentence is wrong as which relates to ‘my’ 32. (A) The pronoun one should be used throughout, if used
family’. So ‘which’ should be placed as near to family’ at all.
as possible. So, the correct sentence is. For example:
(b) I with my family which consists of my wife and (a) One must use one’s best efforts if one wishes
parents, reside in Delhi. to succeed.
25. Who is used in the nominative cases and whom in the (b) One should be careful about what one says.
objective cases. (B) Plural is commonly used with none.
For example : For example.
(a) None of his poems are well known.
206 Essential English Grammar

(b) None of these words are now current. Note: We can also use will leave in place of leaves.
In case of ‘none’ the verb can be both singular E. It is used to introduce quotations.
and plural (according to the sense) For example : Keats says, ‘A thing of beauty is a joy
33. Anyone should be used when more than two persons or forever’.
things are spoken of. F. In exclamatory’ sentences beginning with here and
For example : She was taller than anyone of her five sisters. there to express what is actually taking place in the
present.
TENSES For example : Here comes the bus!
1. Tense is the form taken by a verb to indicate time and G. When two actions of the future are being talked
continuance or completeness of action. The continuance about, one dependent on the other, the former action
or completeness of action is denoted by four subcategories. is represented by present simple and the latter by
(a) Simple Tense: It is need for habitual or routine future simple.
actions in the Present Tense, action which is over in For example : We shall go when the child comes back
the Past Tense & action to happen in the Future home.
Tense. 4. The Present Continuous tense is used
The action is mentioned simply. Nothing is said about (I) For an action going on at the time of speaking.
whether the action is complete. For example : The boys are playing cricket in the
(b) Continuous Tense : The action is incomplete or ground.
continuous or going on. (II) For a temporary action that may not be actually
(c) Perfect Tense: The action is complete, finished or happening at the time of speaking but was happening
perfect with respect to a certain point of time. in the recent past and is still happening in recent future.
(d) Perfect Continuous Tense: The action is going on For example : I am reading Sidney Sheldon now-a-
continuously over a long period of time and is yet to days.
be finished. (III) To express changing or developing situations.
2. The different tenses and the verb forms used in each tense For example : India is progressing day by day.
are given below : (IV) For an action that is planned or arranged to take place
in the near future.
Singular with meaning Plural with meaning For example : I am going to cinema tonight.
Name of Tenses Verb form used in Tenses Note: But it is not good to use the present continuous
Present simple / indefinite Verb + s/es
for slightly distant future. So, don’t say
(a) I am going to cinema next week.
Present continuous / Is/am/are + verb + ing Rather, use the future simple. So, it is better if
Progress ive you say
(b) I will go to cinema next week.
Present perfect Has / have + third form of verb
(V) When the reference is to a particularly obstinate habit,
Present perfect continuous Has/have + been + verb + ing the present continuous is used instead of present
simple. An adverb like always, continually, constantly
Past simple / indefinite Second form of verb
is also used.
Past continuous / W as/were + verb + ing
For example : It is no use scolding him; he always
Progress ive does what is forbidden. (Incorrect)
Past perfect Had + third form of verb Note: that his doing what is forbidden has become a
die-hard habit. The habit persists in spite of advice or
Past perfect continuous Had been + verb + ing
warning. So, we should use the present continuous.
Future s imple / indefinite Shall / will + verb For example : It is no use scolding him; he is always doing
Future continuous / Shall / will + be + verb + ing what is forbidden. (Correct)
Progress ive
5. The Present Perfect tense is used
(I) To indicate the completed activities in the immediate
Future perfect Shall/will + Have + past participle
past.
Future perfect continuous Shall/will + have been + verb + ing For example : He has just gone out.
(II) Action completed in the immediate past or an action
3. The simple Present tense is used of the past whose effect lingers in the present.
A. To express a habitual action. For example : I wrote three books. ( Incorrect)
For example : I get up every day at five o’clock. The given sentence appears to be incomplete. The
B. To express general truths. reader of the sentence immediately queries. ‘When
For example : Fortune favours the brave. did you write three books?” It would be a different
C. In vivid narrative, as substitute for the simple past. case if you said
For example : Immediately the Sultan hurries to his For example : I wrote books.
capital. Then the reader would infer that you wrote books in
D. To indicate a future event that is part of a fixed the past as a profession or hobby. But when you are
programme or time table. being so specific as to say “three books”, we
For example : The train leaves at 5:20 am. immediately feel the need of a time frame. Since no
Essential English Grammar 207

time frame is mentioned, we assume it to be ‘by now’. (II) When a new action happened in the middle of a longer
So, we have something to the effect. action. In this case Past Simple and Past Continuous
For example : I have written three books by now. are used together. Past Simple is used for the new
This ‘by now’ is implied and need not be written. So, action.
For example : I have written three books. (Correct) For example : The Light went out while I was reading.
(III) The present perfect is never used with adverbs of past (III) For persistent habits in the past.
time. In such cases the past simple should be used. For example : She was always chewing gum.
For example : India has won the match last week. 9. The Past Perfect tense is used when two actions happened
(Incorrect) in the past. In this case it is necessary to show which
“Last week” is not immediate past. You may therefore action happened earlier than the other. Here past perfect
be tempted to use the present perfect. But remember is used for the action, which happened earlier.
that the immediate past here does not go unindicated. For example :
Last week is being used as an adverb of past time. So, (a) When I reached the station the train had started.
For example : India won the match last week. (b) I had done my exercise when Hari came to see me.
(Correct) 10. The past perfect continuous is used for an action that
(IV) To express past actions whose time is not given and began before a certain point in the past and continued up
not definite - actions with their effect continuing in to that time. A time expression like since last year, for the
the present. last few days is generally put after perfect continuous
For example : tense.
(a) I have never known him to be angry. For example : At that time he had been writing a novel for
(b) Have you read ‘Gulliver’s Travels’? two months.
(V) To describe the past events when we think more of 11. The simple future is used for an action that has still to
their effect in the present than of the action itself. take place.
For example : I have cut my finger. For example :
(VI) For long actions and situations which started in the (a) I shall see him tomorrow.
near past and went on until very recently. (b) Tomorrow will be Sunday.
For example : I have read three chapters since this 12. The Future Continuous tense
morning. (I) Represents an action as going on at sometime in the
6. The Present Perfect Continuous tense is used for an future.
action, which began at sometime in the past and is still For example : I shall be reading the paper then.
continuing. With the present perfect continuous tense (II) Represents the future events that are planned.
an adverb or phrase that expresses time is used. For example : He will be meeting us next week.
For example : 13. The Future Perfect tense is used to indicate the
(a) I have been reading this book since morning. completion of an event by a certain future time.
(b) They have been building the bridge for several For example : I shall have written my exercise by that
months. time.
7. The Simple Past tense is used 14. The Future Perfect Continuous tense indicates an action
(I) To indicate an action completed in the past. Generally, represented; it being in progress over a period of time
adverbs or adverb phrases of past time are used in that will end in the future. Generally time period is
the past simple tense. mentioned along with it.
For example: For example : By next July we shall have been living here
(a) The steamer sailed yesterday. for four years.
(b) He went home sometime back. 15. Event occurring at the same time must be given in the
(II) To express imaginary present situations or same tense.
imaginary future events that may not happen. For example : When he fainted his brother was with him.
For example : 16. Will or Shall cannot be used twice in the same sentence
(a) If I had longer holidays, I would be very happy. even if both the actions refer to the future tense.
(b) If I got rich, I would travel all over the world. For example :
(III) When this tense is used without an adverb of time, (a) I shall come if he will call me. (Incorrect)
then time may be either implied or indicated by the (b) I shall come if he calls me. (Correct)
context. 17. With the phrases as if and as though the past tense
For example : I didn’t sleep well. (i.e., last night) and plural form of the verb should be used.
(IV) For past habits ‘used to’ is added to the verb. For example :
For example : She carried an umbrella. (a) He behaves as if he is a king. (Incorrect)
8. The Past Continuous tense is used; (b) He behaves as if he were a king. (Correct)
(I) To denote an action going on at some time in the 18. With the word ‘wish’ four verbs are used namely were,
past. The time of the action may or may not be had, could, would. ‘Were’ is used when the wish seems to
indicated. be unrealisable.
For example : For example : I wish I were a king.
(a) It was getting darker. ‘Had’ is used when our wish is a lament over the past
(b) We were listening to the radio all evening. happening.
208 Essential English Grammar

For example : I wish I had accepted that job. ‘Would’ is 8. ‘The’ is used with names of gulfs, rivers, seas, oceans,
used when we refer to the future. groups of islands and mountain ranges.
For example : I wish I would get a ticket. For example :
‘Could’ is used when we wish that something that has The Persian Gulf, The Red Sea, The Indian Ocean, The
happened already should have happened otherwise. British Isles, The Alps.
For example : He did not go because he was busy 9. ‘The’ is used before the name of certain books.
yesterday. I wish he could go with you. For example : The Vedas, The Puranas, The Ramayana.
19. ‘For’ is used for a period of time. But we never say ‘The Valmiki’s Ramayana’. The is not
For example : He has been working for two hours. used when the name of a book is mentioned along with
‘Since’ is used with a point of time. the author’s name. So, ‘Valmiki’s Ramayana’ is correct.
For example : He has been working since morning. 10. The is used before the names of things unique of their kind.
20. In case of conditional sentences ‘had’ and ‘would have’ For example : the sun, the sky, the ocean, the sea.
are used. 11. The is used before a plural common noun if it refers to a
For example : If I had met him I would have invited him. particular group among the class and not the whole class.
For example : Drive away the cows from the field.
ARTICLES 12. The is used before a proper noun only when it is qualified
1. ‘A’ or ‘an’ does not refer to a particular person or thing. It by an adjective.
leaves indefinite the person or thing spoken of. For example : The great Rani of Jhansi, the immortal Kalidas.
For example : I saw a doctor. (means I saw any doctor) 13. The is used before the superlatives.
2. An is used before a word beginning with vowel sound For example :
(please note that the word begins… with vowel sound (a) Sachin is the best batsman in the world today.
and not necessarily a vowel itself). (b) The best person should win.
For example : an ass, an enemy, an inkstand, an orange, 14. The noun if emphasis is laid on the use of such a noun.
an umbrella, an hour. Here, noun can be proper or abstract noun
3. An is placed before an abbreviation if the first letter of an (a) the time for doing it.
abbreviation is F, H. L, M, N, R, S or X. (b) occasion to help the distressed.
For example : 15. The is used with ordinals.
(a) An MBA was required for the post. For example :
(b) An SAO is an officer of high rank. (a) He was the first student to finish his homework.
4. A is used before a word beginning with a consonant sound. (b) The second chapter of the book is very interesting.
For example : a boy, a woman a horse, a one-rupee note, 16. The is used before an adjective when the noun is
a university, a European (both university and European understood.
begin with a consonant sound of ‘yu’ ). For example :
5. A and an are used with words ‘few’ and ‘little’ if they refer (a) The poor are always with us. (Here poor mean poor
to a small number or a small amount. Words ‘few’ and people, which is understood.)
‘little’ without the articles means almost none. (b) The weak and the strong. (Here weak means weak
For example: people and strong means strong people.)
(a) We have little time to spare. (means almost no time) 17. No article is used before a common noun when it refers to
(b) We have a little time to spare. (means some time) all the members of the class.
(c) Few persons were present at the meeting. (means For example :
almost no one was present) (a) Man is mortal.
(d) A few persons were present at the meeting. (means (b) Fish has high protein content.
some were present) (c) What kind of flower is it?
6. A is used in the following senses : 18. The is used before a common noun to give it the meaning
(A) In its original numerical sense of one. of an abstract noun.
For example: For example : The devil in him begins its misdeeds now and then.
a) Not a word was said. 19. No article is used before the names of materials such as
b) A word to the wise is sufficient. gold, stone, wine, iron, wheat, wood, cloth.
(B) In the vague sense of a certain time. For example :
For example : One evening a beggar came to my door. (a) Gold is a precious metal.
(C) In the sense of any, to single out an individual as the (b) Wheat grows in Uttar Pardesh, Haryana and Madhya
representative of a class. Pardesh.
For example : A pupil should obey his teacher. (c) Iron is a useful metal.
(D) To make a common noun of a proper noun. Note: But it is correct to say.
For example : A Daniel came to judgement. (A Daniel For example : An iron is a useful gadget.
= A very wise man) Because here we are not taking about material iron, but
7. ‘The’ points out some particular person or thing or the object which is used to make clothes smooth.
someone or something already referred to. 20. No article is used before proper nouns.
For example : For example :
(a) I saw the doctor. (means I saw some particular doctor) (a) Delhi is the capital of India.
(b) The book you want is out of print. (b) Newton was a great philosopher.
Essential English Grammar 209

But consider the following examples where an article is 28. Consider this sentence :
used before a proper noun. (a) I have a black and white cat.
(a) This man is a second Newton. Here I mean that I have one cat that is partly black and
(b) Mumbai is the Manchester of India. partly white.
Here Newton and Manchester is not used as a proper Now, consider this sentence
noun but a common noun. The first sentence means that For example : I have a black and a white cat.
this man is as great as Newton and the second sentence Here I mean that I have two cats one is black and the
means that Mumbai is a great manufacturing City like other white. Hence the rule is that when two or more
Manchester. adjectives qualify the same noun, the article is used before
21. No articles are used before a common noun used in its the first adjective only. But when they qualify different
widest sense. nouns, the article is used before each adjective separately.
For example : Consider one more example.
(a) The science has developed much in the past hundred (a) The President and Chairman is absent.
years. (Incorrect) (b) The President and the Chairman are present.
(b) Science has developed much in the past hundred Sentence (a) means that only one person is acting as
years. (Correct) president as well as chairman. Sentence (b) means that
22. No article is used before the noun following ‘Kind of’: two different persons are acting as the President and the
For example : Chairman and both the persons are absent.
(a) What kind of a hobby is this? (Incorrect)
(b) What kind of hobby is this? (Correct) ADJECTIVES
23. No article is used before abstract nouns. Adjectives are the words that describe the qualities of a noun
For example : or pronoun in a given sentence.
(a) Wisdom is the gift of heaven.
(b) Honesty is the best policy. CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING
But consider the following examples where an article is 1. Tell which sentence is correct:
used before an abstract noun. (a) Flowers are plucked freshly.
(a) The wisdom of Solomon is famous. (b) Flowers are plucked fresh.
(b) I cannot forget the kindness with which he treated Sentence (b) is correct as, adjective is correctly used
me. with a verb when some quality of the subject rather than
Here the article is used before the abstract noun as the verb is to be expressed. Here, fresh describes the word
abstract noun has been qualified by an adjective or Flowers (a noun) and not plucked (a verb).
adjectival clause.
24. No article is used before languages, subject of arts and DEMONSTRATIVE ADJECTIVE AND ITS RULES
science. 2. This and that are used with the singular nouns and these
For example : and those are used with plural nouns
(a) We are studying English. For example :
(b) Geometry is the toughest subject I ever studied. (a) This mango is sour.
25. No article is used before words such as school, college, (b) These mangoes are sour.
church, bed, table, hospital, market, prison. (c) That boy is industrious
For example : (d) Those boys are industrious.
(a) I went to school till last year. 3. This and these indicate something near to the speaker
(b) I have never been to hospital. while that and those indicate something distant to the
But an article is used before these words when reference speaker.
is made to a definite place or some particular purpose. For For example :
example: I am going to the school. (= means I am going to (a) This girl sings. (b) These girls sing.
my child’s school for some particular purpose i.e., to (c) That girl sings. (d) Those girls sing.
deposit the fee).
26. No article is used before the name of relations like father, DISTRIBUTIVE ADJECTIVES AND ITS RULES
mother, aunt, uncle. 4. Each is used when reference is made to the individuals
For example : Mother would like to see you. forming any group. Each is also used when the number of
But if someone else’s mother is being talked about then the group is limited and definite.
the should be used. For example :
For example : The mother would like to see you. (a) Five members were seated on each chair.
27. Article should not be used before positions that are held (b) I was in Shimla for five days and it rained each day.
at one time by one person only. Every is used when reference is made to total group or
For example : when the number is indefinite.
(a) Pranab Mukherjee is was elected the President of For example :
the country. (Incorrect) (a) Every seat was taken.
(b) Pranab Mukherjee is elected President of the country. (b) I go to the movies every week.
(Correct) (c) Leap year falls in every fourth year.
210 Essential English Grammar

5. Each, either, neither and every are always followed by the For example : Anjali is wiser than Rahul.
singular noun. But if we wish to compare two qualities in the same person
For example : then the comparative form ending in ‘er’ is not used.
(a) Each boy must take his turn. For example : Anjali is wiser than brave.
(b) Every word of it is false. 13. When two objects are compared with each other, the latter
(c) Neither accusation is true. term of comparison must exclude the former.
ADJECTIVES OF QUANTITY AND ITS RULES For example :
6. Some is used in affirmative sentences to express quantity (a) Delhi is bigger than any other city in India.
or degree. If we say,
For example : I shall buy some bananas. (b) Delhi is bigger than any city in India.
Any is used in the negative or interrogative sentences to Then we are saying Delhi is bigger than Delhi, as any city
express quantity or degree. in India includes Delhi also. And this is obviously wrong.
For example : 14. In a comparison by means of a superlative the latter term
(a) I shall not buy any bananas. should include the former.
(b) Have you bought any bananas? For example :
But some is an exception to the above rule. Some is used (a) Delhi is the biggest of all cities in India.
in interrogative sentences, which are commands or (b) Of all men he is the strongest.
requests. Kindly note the difference in this and previous rule.
For example : Will you please lend me some money? 15. Later and latest refer to time.
7. Few is used for countable objects and little is used for For example :
non-countable objects. (a) He is later than I expected.
8. Little means not much. So use of the word little has a (b) This is the latest news.
negative meaning. Latter and last refer to position.
For example : For example :
(a) There is little hope of his recovery. (a) The last player could not bat as he was injured.
(b) He has little appreciation of hard work. (b) The latter chapters are very interesting.
A little means some though not much. So, use of a Latter is used when there are two only, last when there
little has a positive meaning. are more than two.
For example : For example :
(a) There is a little hope of his recovery. (a) Of Manohar, Syam and Joshi, the latter is a driver.
(b) He has a little appreciation of hard work. (Incorrect)
The little means not much but all there is. (b) Of Manohor, Syam and Joshi, the last is a driver.
For example : (Correct)
(a) The little information he had was quite reliable. 16. Elder and eldest are used only of persons (usually
(b) The little knowledge of management he possessed members of the same family).
was not sufficient to stand him in good stead. For example :
9. Few means not many. So use of the word few has a (a) My elder sister is doing MBA from IIM Ahemdabad.
negative meaning. (b) My eldest brother is getting married today.
For example : Few men are free from faults. Older and oldest are used of both persons and things.
A few means some. So use of word a few has a positive For example :
meaning. (a) This is the oldest building in the city.
For example : A few men are free from faults. (b) Anthony is the oldest boy in the class.
The few mean not many, but all there are. 17. Further means more distant or advanced whereas farther
For example : The few remarks that he made were very good. means additional.
10. Only uncountable nouns follow much, little, some, For example :
enough, sufficient and whole. (a) No one discussed the topic further.
For example : (b) Kolkata is farther from the equator than Colombo.
(a) I ate some rice. 18. The comparative degree is generally followed by ‘than’,
(b) There are not enough spoons. but comparative adjectives ending in is or are followed
by the preposition ‘to’.
INTERROGATIVE ADJECTIVE AND ITS RULES For example :
11. What is used in the general sense and which is used in a (a) Akshay is inferior to Aamir in intelligence.
selective sense. (b) Aamir is superior to Akshay in intelligence.
For example : (c) He is junior to me.
(a) Which of you haven’t brought your book? (d) Who was captain prior to Azhar ?
(b) What manner of man is he? 19. Adjectives such as square, round, perfect, eternal, universal,
unique do not admit of different degrees. So they cannot
DEGREES OF COMPARISON OF ADJECTIVES AND ITS be compared. Thus strictly speaking we cannot say that a
RULES thing is more square more round or more perfect. But
12. The comparative form ending in ‘er’ is used when we are sometimes we do make exceptions to this rule.
comparing one quality in two persons. For example : This is the most perfect specimen I have seen.
Essential English Grammar 211

20. When the comparative form is used to express selection (a) His written statement differs in several important
from two of the same kind or class, it is followed by ‘of’ respects from his oral (not verbal) statement.
and preceded by ‘the’. (b) The boy was sent with an verbal message to the doctor.
For example : 31. ‘Common’ means shared by all concerned. If a fact is a
(a) Ramesh is stronger of the two boys. common Knowledge, it means the knowledge of the fact
21. When than or as is followed by the third person pronoun, is shared by all. Everyone knows about it. ‘Mutual’ means
the verb is to be repeated. in relation to each other. If you and I are mutual admirers,
For example : Ram is not as clever as his brother is. it means I admire you and you admire me. We might also
22. When than or as is followed by first or second person have a common admirer who admires both of us.
pronoun, the verb can be omitted. (a) We stopped smoking on the advice of a mutual friend.
For example : He is more intelligent than you. (Incorrect)
23. In comparing two things or classes of things the (b) We stopped smoking on the advice of a common
comparative should be used. friend. (Correct)
For example : It is apparent that there are two or more than two of us.
(a) Of two evils choose the lesser (not least). Apart from us, there is a person (friend). Since he is a
(b) Which is the better (not best) of the two? friend to all of us, this friend is being shared by all of us.
24. A very common form of error is exemplified in the following So, he is a common friend. Now, look at this sentence.
sentence. For example : We stopped smoking on mutual advice.
(a) The population of London is greater than any town It means I advised, you not to smoke and you advised me
in India. not to smoke.
(b) The population of London is greater than that of
OTHER COMMON ERRORS
any town in India.
Sentence (b) is correct as the comparison is between the 32. Other common errors.
population of London and the population of any town in (a) These kind of questions is often asked in the
India. examinations. (Incorrect)
25. Double comparatives and superlatives should be (b) This kind of question is often asked in the
avoided. examinations.(Correct)
For example : (c) He is as good if not better than his brother. (Incorrect)
(a) Seldom had the little town seen a more costlier (d) He is as good as if not better than his brother.
funeral. (Correct)
(Incorrect) (e) The future do not hold much for you. (Incorrect)
(b) Seldom had the little town seen a costlier funeral. (f) The future does not hold much for you. (Correct)
(Correct)
(c) Seldom had the little town seen a more costly funeral. VERB
(Correct) 1. Two or more singular subjects connected by ‘and’ usually
26. Preferable has the force of comparative and is take a verb in the plural.
followed by to. Phrase ‘more preferable’ should not For example : Hari and Rama are there.
be used. 2. If two singular nouns refer to the same person or thing,
For example : the verb must be singular.
(a) Coffee is more preferable to tea. (Incorrect) For example : My friend and benefactor has come.
(b) Coffee is preferable to tea. (Correct) 3. If two subjects together express one idea, the verb may
27. Less refers to quantity whereas fewer refers to number. be in the singular.
For example : For example : The horse and the carriage is at the door.
(a) No fewer than fifty miners were killed in the explosion. 4. Two or more singular subjects connected by ‘or’, ‘nor’,
(b) We do not sell less than ten kg of tea. either... or, neither...nor take a verb in the singular.
28. Certain adjectives do not really need comparison because For example : Neither he nor I was there.
their meaning is already superlative. Such words are– But when subjects joined by ‘or’, ‘nor’ are of different
unique, Ideal, perfect, complete, universal, entire, numbers, the verb must be plural, and the plural subject
extreme, chief, full, square, round. Therefore phrases like must be placed next to the verb.
most unique, more round, fullest, chiefest, etc. are wrong. For example : Rama and his brothers have done this.
29. If there is a gradual increase, it is generally expressed When the subjects joined by ‘or’, ‘nor’ are of different
with two comparatives and not with positives. persons, the verb agrees in person with the nearest one.
For example : For example :
(a) It grew hot and hot. (Incorrect) (a) Either he or I am mistaken.
(b) It grew hotter and hotter. (Correct) (b) Neither you nor he is to blame.
5. When words are joined to a singular subject by ‘with’,
OTHER COMMON RULES
‘together with’, ‘in addition to’, ‘as well as’, then also
30. ‘Verbal’ means ‘of or pertaining to words’ whereas ‘oral’ number of the verb remains singular.
means ‘delivered by word of mouth or not written’. Hence For example : The Chief with all his men, was massacred.
the opposite of written is oral, not verbal. 6. Following examples exemplify the common mistakes
For example : committed:
212 Essential English Grammar

(a) His diet was abstemious, his prayers long and fervent. For example :
(Incorrect as subjects are not in the same number.) (a) Neither of the two men was very strong.
(b) His diet was abstemious, his prayers were long and (b) Every one of the prisons is full.
fervent. (Correct) (c) Many a man has done so.
(c) He never has and never will, take such strong (d) He asked whether either of the applicants was
measures. (Incorrect) suitable.
(d) He never has taken, and never will take, such strong 6. When the subjects joined by ‘or’, ‘nor’ are of different
measures. (Correct) numbers, the verb must be plural, and the plural must be
(e) Ten new members have been enrolled and seven placed next to the verb.
resigned. (Incorrect) For example :
(f) Ten new members have been enrolled and seven have (a) Neither Rekha nor her friends was present at the
resigned. (Correct) party.
(g) Being a very hot day, I remained in my tent. (Incorrect)
(Incorrect as participle being is referring to none) (b) Neither Rekha nor her friends were present at the
(h) It being a very hot day, I remained in my tent. (Correct) party.
(i) Sitting on the gate, a scorpion stung him. (Correct)
(Incorrect as participle sitting is not 7. When a plural noun denotes some specific quantity or
referring to any word) amount considered as a whole, the verb is generally
(j) While he was sitting on the gate, a scorpion stung singular.
him. (Correct) For example :
7. The verb lay (lay, laid, laid) is transitive and is always (a) Five hours are too short a time to judge one’s
followed by an object. The verb lie (lie, lay, lain) is character.
intransitive and cannot have an object. (Incorrect)
For example : (b) Five hours is too short a time to judge one’s character.
(a) Lay the child to sleep. (Correct)
(b) Let me lie here. This is so because five hours is considered as one chunk.
(c) I laid the book on the table. 8. Two nouns qualified by each or every, even though
connected by ‘and’ require a singular verb.
AGREEMENT OF THE SUBJECT WITH THE VERB
For example : Every boy and every girl was given a packet
1. A verb must agree with its subject in number and person. of sweets.
Often due to “Error of Proximity”: the verb is made to 9. ‘None’ though singular commonly takes a plural verb.
agree in number with a noun near it, instead of with its For example : None are so deaf as those who will not
proper subject. hear.
For example : 10. Tell which sentence is correct.
(a) The quality of the mangoes were not good. (Incorrect (a) Put in to bat first, a huge total was expected from India.
since subject is quality, a singular and not mangoes.) (b) Put in to bat first, India was expected to pile up a
(b) The quality of the mangoes was not good(Correct). huge total.
(c) His knowledge of Indian vernaculars are far beyond Now: who has been put in to bat first? A huge total of
the common. (Incorrect) India? Common sense tells us it must be India. But the
(d) His knowledge of Indian vernaculars is far beyond sentence (a), as it stands, appears otherwise. So, sentence
the common. (Correct) (b) is correct.
2. Verb should be singular even when some words are joined (a) Being a rainy day, I decided to take my umbrella.
to a singular subject by ‘with’, ‘as well as’ etc, (b) It being a rainy day, I decided to take my umbrella.
For example : The sentence (a), as it stands, gives us the impression
(a) The chairman, with the directors, is to be present. that being a rainy day qualifies I. This is simply not true.
(b) Silver, as well as cotton, has fallen in prices. I am not a rainy day. So sentence (b) is correct.
3. Two or more singular subjects connected by ‘or’, ‘nor’ 11. When a plural noun denotes some specific quantity or
require singular verb. amount considered as a whole, the verb is generally
For example : singular.
(a) No nook or corner was left unexplored. For xample :
(b) Our happiness or our sorrow is largely due to our (a) One hundred paise is equal to one rupee.
own actions. (b) Six miles is a long distance.
4. If two singular nouns express one idea, the verb is in the (c) Fifty thousand rupees is a large sum.
singular.
For example : ADVERBS
(a) Bread and Butter are essential for one’s life.
A word that modifies the meaning of a verb as called an Adverb.
(Incorrect)
(b) Bread and Butter is essential for one’s life. SOME IMPORTANT RULES
(Correct) 1. Adverbs of manner such as well, fast, quickly, carefully,
5. Either, neither, each, everyone, many a must be followed calmly etc. are placed after the verb if there is no object
by a singular verb. and after the object if there is one.
Essential English Grammar 213

For example : 9. Of course is used to denote a natural consequence. It

(a) It is raining heavily. should not be used in place of certainly, undoubtedly.
(b) She speaks English well. For example :
2. Adverbs of time such as always, often sometimes, never, (a) Of course he is the best player. (Incorrect)
generally, ever merely, seldom etc., are placed before the (b) He is certainly the best player. (Correct)
verb they qualify.
For example : FOLLOWING ARE COMMON RULES OF ADVERBS IN
(a) I seldom meet him. (Correct) GENERAL
(b) I meet him seldom. (Incorrect) 10. Only is used before the word it qualifies.
For example :
Adverbs of degree refer to words which show “how much”, “in
(a) Only I spoke to him. (b) I only spoke to him.
what degree” or “to what extent” does the action taken place.
(c) I spoke to him only.
CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING : 11. Else is followed by but and not by than.
3. Meaning of too is more than enough. Too denotes some For example : It is nothing else but hypocrisy.
kind of excess. 12. ‘As’ is often used in a sentence though there is no need
For example : for it. For example :
(a) He is too weak to walk. (a) He is elected as the President. (Incorrect)
(b) It is never too late. (b) He is elected President. (Correct)
Hence, use of very in place of too is wrong. 13. ‘Perhaps’ means possibly whereas ‘probably’ means most
For example : Instead of saying that: likely. For example :
(a) Cow’s milk is too nutritious. (a) Where is Govinda? Perhaps he is not here. (Incorrect)
We should say that (b) Where is Govinda? Probably he is not here. (Correct)
(b) Cow’s milk is very nutritious.
4. Enough is placed after the word it qualifies. PREPOSITION
For example : Everyone should be strong enough to 1. In is used with the names or countries and large towns; at
support one’s family. is used when speaking of small towns and villages. For
It will be wrong if we write ‘Everyone should be enough example :
strong to support one’s family’. (a) I live in Delhi.
5. Much is used with past participles. (b) I live at Rohini in Delhi.
For example : 2. In and at are used in speaking of things at rest; to and into
(a) He was much disgusted with his life. are used in speaking of things in motion. For example :
(b) The news was much surprising. (a) He is in bed.
Very is used with present participles. (b) He is at the top of the class.
For example : (c) He ran to school.
(a) It is very disgusting to ask him for a loan. (d) He jumped into the river.
(b) The news is very surpising. (e) The snake crawled into its hole.
6. When very and much are used to qualify superlative form 3. On is often used in speaking of things at rest; and upon
of adjectives/adverbs, they should be put before the word for the things in motion. For example:
‘very’ and after the word ‘much’. (a) He sat on a chair.
For example : (b) The cat sprang upon the table.
(a) Rim is the very best boy in his class. 4. Till is used of time and to is used for place.
(b) Rim is much the best boy in his class. For example :
Adverbs of Affirmation or Negation refer to words that (a) He slept till eight o’clock.
assert the action emphatically. (b) He walked to the end of the street.
Consider these examples : 5. With often denotes the instrument and by the agent. For
(a) He certainly was a winner among them. example :
(b) Luckily he survived the crash. (a) He killed two birds with one shot.
CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING (b) He was stabbed by a lunatic with a dagger.
7. No sooner should always be followed by than. 6. Since is used before a noun or phrase denoting some point
For example : of time and is preceded by a verb in the perfect tense.
(a) No sooner I saw him I trembled with fear. (Incorrect) For example :
(b) No sooner did I see him than I trembled with fear. (a) I have eaten nothing since yesterday.
(Correct) (b) He has been ill since Monday last.
8. Not should not be used with the words, which have From is also used before a noun or phrase denoting some
negative meaning if we want the sentence to be negative. point of time but is used with non-perfect tense.
For example : For example :
(a) I received no letter neither from him nor from her. (a) I commenced work from 1st January.
(Incorrect) (b) He will join school from tomorrow.
(b) I received letter neither from him nor from her. For is used with a period of time. For example :
(Correct) (a) He has been ill for five days.
(b) He lived in Bombay for five years.
214 Essential English Grammar

7. Use of in before a period of time means at the end of (B) Seeing that,
period, but use of within before a period of time means For example :
before the end of period. (a) Since you wish it, it shall be done.
For example : (b) Since that is the case, I shall excuse you.
(a) I shall return in an hour. (means I shall return at the 2. Or is used
end of an hour). (A) To introduce an alternative.
(b) I shall return within an hour. (means I shall return For example :
before the end of an hour). (a) You must work or starve.
8. Scarcely should be followed by ‘when’ and not by ‘but’. (b) You may take this book or that one.
For example : Scarcely had he gone, when (not than) a (c) He may study law or medicine or engineering or
policeman knocked at the door. he may enter into trade.
9. The phrase ‘seldom or ever’ is wrong ‘Seldom or never’ is (B) To introduce an alternative name or synonym.
right. For example : The violin or fiddle has become the
For example : Such goods are made for export, and are leading instrument of the modern orchesta.
seldom or never used in this country. (C) To mean otherwise.
10. Examine the following sentence: For example : We must hasten or night will overtake
(a) This is as good, if not better than that. (Incorrect) us.
(b) This is as good as, if not better than, that.(Correct) 3. If is used to mean:
(c) This is as good as that, if not better. (Correct) (A) On the condition or supposition that.
11. Beside means at the side of while besides means in addition For example :
to. For example : (a) If he is here, I shall see him.
(a) Beside the ungathered rice he lay. (b) If that is so, I am content.
(b) Besides being fined, he was sentenced to a term of (B) Admitting that.
imprisonment. For example : If I am blunt, I am at least honest.
12. Above and below merely denote position while over and (C) Whether.
under also carry a sense of covering or movement. For example : I asked him if he would help me.
(a) The bird flew above the lake. (Incorrect) (D) Whenever.
(b) The bird flew over the lake. (Correct) For example : If I feel any doubt I enquire.
Here over is used as besides denoting upward position, 4. That is used:
movement is also involved. (A) To express a reason or cause.
13. During is used when reference is made to the time within For example :
which something happens. For is used when we are talking (a) Not that I loved Caesar less but that I loved
about how long something lasts. Rome more.
(a) There are few incidents of irregularity for the (b) He was annoyed that he was contradicted.
emergency years. (Incorrect) (B) To express a purpose and is equivalent to in order
(b) There are few incidents of irregularity during the that.
emergency years. (Correct) For example : He kept quiet that the dispute might
14. Compare is followed by to when it shows that two things cease.
are alike. It is followed by with when we look at the ways (C) To express a consequence, result or effect.
in which two things are like and unlike each other. For example : He bled so profusely that he died.
For example : 5. Lest is used to express a negative purpose and is
(a) Sanath Jayasuria’s bowling may be compared to the equivalent to ‘in order that… not’, ‘for fear that’.
sales of a useful book, they score right from the For example :
beginning. (Incorrect) (a) He lied lest he should be killed.
(b) Sanath Jayasuria’s batting may be compared with (b) I was alarmed lest we should be wrecked.
the sales of a useful book; they score right from the 6. While is used to mean:
beginning. (Correct) (A) During that time, as long as.
(c) If we compare Delhi University with the regional ones, For example : while there is life there is hope.
we find the former to be much more efficient. (B) At the same time that.
(Incorrect) For example : While he found fault, he also praised.
(d) If we compare Delhi University to the regional ones, 7. Only means except that, but, were it not that.
we find the former to be much more efficient. (Correct) For example :
(a) A very pretty woman, only she squints a little.
CONJUNCTIONS (b) The day is pleasant, only rather cold.
1. Since as conjunction means: 8. The conjunctions after, before, as soon as, until are not
(A) From and after the time when. followed by clause in the future tense. Present simple or
For example : present perfect tense is used to express a future event.
(a) Many things have happened since I left the For example :
school. (a) I will phone you after I arrive here.
(b) I have never seen him since that unfortunate (b) I will phone you after I have arrived here.
event happened.
Essential English Grammar 215

9. As if used in the sense of as it would be is generally (e) Either you shall have to go home or stay here.
followed by a subject + were + complement. (Incorrect)
For example : (f) You shall have either to go home or stay here.
(a) He loves you as if you were his own child. (Correct)
(b) Sometimes she weeps and sometimes she laughs as 18. Conjunctions like neither...nor, either..or, should be
if she were mad. followed by the same part of speech.
10. The clause that begins with as if should be put into the For example :
past simple tense, if the preceding clause expresses a past (a) He neither agreed to my proposal nor to his.
action. But if it expresses a past action it should be (Incorrect)
followed by the past perfect tense. (b) He agreed neither to my proposal nor to his. (Correct)
For example : 19. Conjunction is not used before an interrogative adverb
(a) He behaves as if he were a lord. or interrogative pronoun in the indirect narration.
(b) He behaved as if he had been a lord. For example :
11. While as long as is used to express time in sense of how (a) He asked me that where I stayed. (Incorrect)
long, until is used to express time in sense of before. (b) He asked me where I stayed. (Correct)
For example : 20. Although goes with yet or a comma in the other clause.
(a) Until you work hard you will improve. (Incorrect) For example :
(b) As long as you work hard you will improve. (Correct) (a) Although Manohar is hardworking but he does not
(c) He learnt little as long as he was 15 years old. get a job. (Incorrect)
(Incorrect) (b) Although Manohar is hard working, yet he does not
(d) He learnt little until he was 15 years old. (Correct) get a job. (Correct)
12. No sooner should be followed by (verb + subject) and 21. Nothing else should be followed by but not by than,
than should begin another clause. For example :
For example : (a) Mr. Bureaucrat! This is nothing else than red-tapism.
(a) No sooner had I reached the station than the train (Incorrect)
left. (b) Mr. Bureaucrat! This is nothing else but red-tapism.
(b) No sooner did the bell ring than all the students (Correct)
rushed in. 22. The correlative conjunctions indeed... but are used to
13. When as well as is used, finite verb should agree in number emphasise the contrast between the first and the second
and person with the first subject. parts of the statement.
For example : He as well as us is innocent. For example :
14. As well as should never be used in place of and if the first (a) I am indeed happy with my school but it produces
subject is preceded by the word ‘both’. famous men. (Incorrect)
For example : (b) I am indeed happy with my school but it does not
(a) Both Rani as well as Kajol came. (Incorrect) produce famous men. (Correct)
(b) Both Rani and Kajol came. (Correct) (c) I am indeed happy with my school that it produces
15. Because is generally used when the reason is the most famous men. (Correct)
important part of a sentence. 23. In a “not only ... but also...” sentence, the verb should
For example : Some people like him because he is honest agree with the noun or pronoun mentioned second, that
and hard working. is; the one after ‘but also’, because this is the part being
Since is used when the reason is already known or is less emphasised.
important than the chief statement. For example :
For example : Since you refuse to cooperate, I shall have (a) Not only the students but also the teacher were
to take legal steps. responsible for what happened in the class. (Incorrect)
For is used when reason given is an afterthought. (b) Not only the students but also the teacher was
For example : The servant must have opened the box, for responsible for what happened in the class. (Correct)
no one else had the key. For never comes at the beginning 24. Such ... as is used to denote a category whereas such
of the sentence and for is always preceded by a comma. ...that emphasises the degree of something by mentioning
16. Scarcely should be followed by when and not by than, its consequence.
(a) Scarcely had he arrived than he had to leave again. For example :
(Incorrect) (a) Each member of the alliance agrees to take such action
(b) Scarcely had he arrived when he had to leave again. that it deems necessary.
(Correct) (Incorrect)
17. Conjunctions such as either... or, neither... nor, not only... (b) Each member of the alliance agrees to take such action
but also, both... and, whether, or etc. always join two words as it deems necessary.
or phrases belonging to the same parts of speech. (Correct)
For example : Here “it seems necessary” is not a consequence of
(a) Either he will ask me or you. (Incorrect) “such action”. The sentence wants to imply that the
(b) He will ask either me or you. (Correct) action belongs to the category “as it deems
(c) Neither he reads nor writes English (Incorrect) necessary”. In other words, what kind of action?
(d) He neither reads nor writes English. (Correct) Such action as it deems necessary.
216 Essential English Grammar

(a) She looked at him in such distress as he had to look • I am sureyou will not let me down, I’ve full faith in your
away. (Incorrect) capabilities.
(b) She looked at him in such distress that he had to • Why are you taking it out on me? I’m not the one
look away. (Correct) responsible for the mishap.
Here, “he had to look away” is a consequence of “she
looked at him in such distress.” In other words, the degree QUESTION TAGS
of the distress of looking at him was such that (not as) he Consider the following examples:
had to look away. (1) You wanted that, didn’t you?
(2) He is coming tonight, isn’t he?
PHRASAL VERBS (3) You wouldn’t report me, would you?
Phrasal Verbs are a particular kind of expression, wherein the Now, look at the last part of all the above sentences
verb is made of two or more components. Mostly the combining preceded by the comma. These are very small questions
components are verbs and prepositions. When divided these added to the sentence and are called question Tags.
components will have a meaning of their own but would not Remember only the question tag is a question and not the
suggest anything about the meaning of the phrasal verb. entire sentence. So, one can say that a Question Tag is an
Consider the following sentences. added brief question to a statement. Usually a question
(a) This sword has been handed down from father to son in tag consists of two words—an auxillary verb in the
the family for many generations. positive or negative form and a pronoun.
(b) I have been looking forward to meeting you since long
How to form question tags?
now.
Three things are to be kept in mind while making a question
(c) The patient came out of the delirium only when given
tag :
tranquilizers.
(a) The right auxiliary verb to be used in the question.
(d) We had almost decided to give up on the search when we
(b) The right pronouns to be used in the tag.
made the discovery.
Both (a) and (b) should be in agreement with the verb and
Phrasal verbs are idiomatic expressions and have a particular noun in the main statement.
meaning different from that of the combining verbs and (c) Whether the verb in the question tag should be positive
prepositions. Following are some phrasal verbs with their or negative.
meanings.
Rules to form Question Tags
(a) sit in : to attend or take part as a visitor
I. If the main statement is positive, the auxiliary verb will be
(b) sit out : to stay till the end of
negative and vice-versa e.g.,
(c) come round : to accept circumstances and adjust
• He saw that, didn’t he?
yourself to them.
• But he isn’t going to England, is he?
(d) get on : to manage one’s life
II. If there is a single subject/noun/pronoun in the main
(e) turn out : to have a particular result
sentence, the corresponding pronoun/same pronoun will
(f) turn up : to arrive unexpectedly
be used in the question tag. e.g.,
(g) show off : to brag or boast
• You are coming with us, aren’t you?
(h) sort out : to successfully deal with a problem
• Reena is leaving tonight, isn’t she?
(i) hand in : to give something to someone in
III. If there are more than one noun/pronoun in the main
authority
sentence then the corresponding pronoun to the active
(j) sit down : to take a seat
subject will be used in the question tag. e.g.,
(k) sit up : to rise from a supine position
• After all this time you’d think he’d have forgotten,
(l) give in : to yield to some pressure
wouldn’t you?
(m) come forth : to find something
• You would’nt refuse me, would you?
(n) switch on : to start something
IV If the verb in the main sentence is an active verb without
(o) turn down : to refuse or reject an offer
any auxillary verb, then the verb used in the question tag
(p) turn in : to expose
will be the form of verb ‘do’ that corresponds with the
(q) look in : probe, or investigate a matter
tense in the main sentence.
Following are some sentences using Phrasal Verbs
• He knows it’s true, doesn’t he?
• Don’t throw away your opportunity to enter this
• You wanted to come with me, didn’t you?
University.
• I told you so, didn’t I?
• Many people believe in astrology and tarrot cards now-
• She never informed us, did she?
a-days.
V If the main sentence has an auxillary then it is used in the
• Quickly get in the car, we’re getting late.
question tag, but with opposite affirmation, i.e., a positive
• You can put forward your point in today’s meeting.
auxiliary in the main sentence transforms to a negative
• To sit through his speech was very difficult.
auxiliary in the question tag and vice-versa e.g.,
• I don’t understand why you put up with his insolent
• He will be coming, won’t he?
behaviour.
• You were there at the party, weren’t you?
• I could see through his intentions the first time I met, but
• You would appear for this exam, wouldn’t you?
kept quiet to give him a chance to reform.
• He didn’t call us, did he?
• Please, fill in all the necessary information in this form.
• She doesn’t live here anymore, does she?