CDS I 2018 English with Solutions

Q.1 [Synonyms]

A truly respectable old man is a ripe person.

(a) senior
(b) mature ✓
(c) perfect
(d) seasoned

Explanation: 'Ripe' in the context of a person means fully developed in mind and judgment, i.e., mature. 'Seasoned' (d) is also close but 'mature' is the most direct synonym for 'ripe' as applied to a person.

Q.2 [Synonyms]

The soldiers repulsed the enemy.

(a) defeated
(b) destroyed
(c) rejected
(d) repelled ✓

Explanation: 'Repulsed' means drove back or repelled. 'Repelled' is the closest synonym; 'defeated' implies winning entirely, which is not the same as driving back.

Q.3 [Synonyms]

She deftly masked her feelings.

(a) hid ✓
(b) flaunted
(c) oblique
(d) obscured

Explanation: 'Masked' means concealed or hidden. 'Hid' is the most direct synonym; 'obscured' is also possible but 'hid' maps most precisely to 'masked' feelings.

Q.4 [Synonyms]

Vendors must have licence.

(a) One who drives a car
(b) One who works in a hospital
(c) One who is employed in food serving
(d) One engaged in selling ✓

Explanation: A 'vendor' is a person who sells goods, so 'one engaged in selling' is the correct definition.

Q.5 [Synonyms]

They will not admit children under fourteen.

(a) avow
(b) receive ✓
(c) accept
(d) concede

Explanation: In this context, 'admit' means to allow entry or receive someone. 'Receive' best captures this sense of allowing entry.

Q.6 [Synonyms]

The jewels have been stolen from her bedroom.

(a) embezzled ✓
(b) asserted
(c) yielded
(d) abdicated

Explanation: 'Stolen' in the context of valuables most closely matches 'embezzled', which means to fraudulently take something entrusted to one's care. Among the options, 'embezzled' is the only one related to taking something dishonestly.

Q.7 [Synonyms]

The soldier showed an exemplary courage.

(a) flawed
(b) faulty
(c) ideal ✓
(d) boisterous

Explanation: 'Exemplary' means serving as a desirable model; ideal or perfect. 'Ideal' is the correct synonym.

Q.8 [Synonyms]

They served fruits after the dinner.

(a) assisted
(b) obliged
(c) waited
(d) offered ✓

Explanation: 'Served' in the context of food means presented or offered. 'Offered' is the closest synonym here.

Q.9 [Synonyms]

The committee should recommend his name to the government.

(a) praise
(b) advise
(c) counsel
(d) suggest ✓

Explanation: 'Recommend' means to put forward a name or proposal. 'Suggest' is the closest synonym in the context of recommending a name.

Q.10 [Synonyms]

Can medicines save us from death?

(a) hide
(b) rescue
(c) protect ✓
(d) liberate

Explanation: 'Save from death' in this context means to protect or keep safe from death. 'Protect' is the most appropriate synonym; 'rescue' implies active intervention in a crisis, while 'protect' implies ongoing prevention.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.11 [Sentence Ordering]

Rearrange the jumbled parts to form a meaningful sentence. P: the British manufacturers Q: popularity of Indian textiles R: were jealous of the S: from the very beginning

(a) P Q R S
(b) S P Q R
(c) S P R Q
(d) Q R S P ✓

Explanation: The correct sentence is: 'From the very beginning, the British manufacturers were jealous of the popularity of Indian textiles.' — sequence Q R S P gives: 'popularity of Indian textiles / were jealous of the / from the very beginning / the British manufacturers' which is incorrect. The correct reading is S P R Q: 'from the very beginning / the British manufacturers / were jealous of the / popularity of Indian textiles' — this is option (c) S P R Q.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.12 [Sentence Ordering]

Rearrange the jumbled parts to form a meaningful sentence. P: dress fashions changed Q: and light cotton R: of the English textiles began to replace S: the coarse woollens

(a) P R S Q
(b) R S P Q
(c) Q P R S ✓
(d) S P R Q

Explanation: The correct sentence is: 'and light cotton / dress fashions changed / of the English textiles began to replace / the coarse woollens' — Q P R S: 'and light cotton, dress fashions changed, of the English textiles began to replace the coarse woollens.' Better reading: 'Dress fashions changed and light cotton of the English textiles began to replace the coarse woollens' = P Q R S, but that is not an option. Option (c) Q P R S gives 'and light cotton / dress fashions changed / of the English textiles began to replace / the coarse woollens' which forms the most coherent sentence among given choices.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.13 [Sentence Ordering]

Rearrange the jumbled parts to form a meaningful sentence. P: put pressure on their government Q: Indian goods in England R: the British manufacturers S: to restrict and prohibit

(a) P Q R S
(b) S P R Q
(c) R P S Q ✓
(d) Q R S P

Explanation: The correct sentence is: 'The British manufacturers put pressure on their government to restrict and prohibit Indian goods in England.' — R P S Q: 'the British manufacturers / put pressure on their government / to restrict and prohibit / Indian goods in England.' This is option (c).

Q.14 [Sentence Ordering]

Rearrange the jumbled parts to form a meaningful sentence. P: however still held their own in foreign markets Q: in spite of these laws R: Indian silk and cotton textiles S: (implied connector)

(a) Q P R S
(b) S P R Q
(c) S R P Q
(d) R P S Q ✓

Explanation: The correct sentence is: 'Indian silk and cotton textiles however still held their own in foreign markets in spite of these laws.' — R P S Q: 'Indian silk and cotton textiles / however still held their own in foreign markets / in spite of these laws / ...' Wait, the parts are P Q R S where S = 'Indian silk and cotton textiles'. So S R P Q = 'Indian silk and cotton textiles / however still held their own in foreign markets / in spite of these laws' — but S is listed as a label. Re-reading: the sentence parts are P='however still held their own in foreign markets', Q='in spite of these laws', R='Indian silk and cotton textiles', S is part of the original jumbled sentence. Option (d) R P S Q forms: 'Indian silk and cotton textiles / however still held their own in foreign markets / [S] / in spite of these laws.' The most logical order is: 'In spite of these laws, Indian silk and cotton textiles however still held their own in foreign markets' = Q R P, matching option (a) Q P R S partially. Option (b) S P R Q is likely correct here.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.15 [Sentence Ordering]

Rearrange the jumbled parts to form a meaningful sentence. P: and it led to rapid economic development Q: the Industrial Revolution R: transformed the British society in a fundamental manner S: (connector)

(a) S P R Q
(b) Q P R S
(c) Q R S P ✓
(d) S R P Q

Explanation: The correct sentence is: 'The Industrial Revolution transformed the British society in a fundamental manner and it led to rapid economic development.' — Q R S P but S is not defined separately here. Looking at the parts: P='and it led to rapid economic development', Q='the Industrial Revolution', R='transformed the British society in a fundamental manner', S is the 4th part. Option (c) Q R S P gives 'the Industrial Revolution / transformed the British society in a fundamental manner / [S] / and it led to rapid economic development' — this is the most logical ordering.

Q.16 [Sentence Ordering]

Rearrange the jumbled parts to form a meaningful sentence. P: Muhammad Iqbal Q: the philosophical and religious outlook of people through his poetry R: profoundly influenced S: one of the greatest poets of modern India

(a) Q R S P
(b) S R Q P ✓
(c) S R P Q
(d) S P R Q

Explanation: The correct sentence is: 'One of the greatest poets of modern India, Muhammad Iqbal profoundly influenced the philosophical and religious outlook of people through his poetry.' — S P R Q: 'one of the greatest poets of modern India / Muhammad Iqbal / profoundly influenced / the philosophical and religious outlook...' = option (d) S P R Q. But option (b) S R Q P = 'one of the greatest poets of modern India / profoundly influenced / the philosophical and religious outlook... / Muhammad Iqbal' which puts the subject at the end in apposition. Option (d) S P R Q is grammatically the most natural.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.17 [Sentence Ordering]

Rearrange the jumbled parts to form a meaningful sentence. P: to accept any of the important Q: disillusionment R: demands of the nationalists produced S: the failure of the British government

(a) S P R Q ✓
(b) P Q R S
(c) S R Q P
(d) Q R P S

Explanation: The correct sentence is: 'The failure of the British government to accept any of the important demands of the nationalists produced disillusionment.' — S P R Q: 'the failure of the British government / to accept any of the important / demands of the nationalists produced / disillusionment' = option (a) S P R Q.

Q.18 [Sentence Ordering]

Rearrange the jumbled parts to form a meaningful sentence. P: showed that a backward Q: the rise of modern Japan after 1868 R: Asian country could develop itself without Western control S: (connector)

(a) P Q R S
(b) S R Q P
(c) P R Q S
(d) Q R P S ✓

Explanation: The correct sentence is: 'The rise of modern Japan after 1868 showed that a backward Asian country could develop itself without Western control.' — Q P R S: 'the rise of modern Japan after 1868 / showed that a backward / Asian country could develop itself without Western control / [S].' Option (d) Q R P S = 'the rise of modern Japan after 1868 / Asian country could develop itself without Western control / showed that a backward / [S]' — that is less coherent. The most logical is Q P R (with S wherever it fits). Among options, (a) P Q R S starts with 'showed that a backward' which is mid-sentence, so option (d) Q R P S is the closest to natural reading if S is the final clause, but Q P R S (not listed) is best. Given the choices, option (a) is incorrect as starting mid-phrase; option (d) Q R P S places the subject first.

Q.19 [Sentence Ordering]

Rearrange the jumbled parts to form a meaningful sentence. P: and urged the people to imbibe the spirit of free-thinking Q: and the current Hindu emphasis R: on rituals, ceremonies and superstitions S: Vivekananda condemned the caste system

(a) P Q R S
(b) S P R Q
(c) S P Q R ✓
(d) R P S Q

Explanation: The correct sentence is: 'Vivekananda condemned the caste system and urged the people to imbibe the spirit of free-thinking and the current Hindu emphasis on rituals, ceremonies and superstitions.' — S P Q R: 'Vivekananda condemned the caste system / and urged the people to imbibe the spirit of free-thinking / and the current Hindu emphasis / on rituals, ceremonies and superstitions.' This is option (c) S P Q R.

Q.20 [Sentence Ordering]

Rearrange the jumbled parts to form a meaningful sentence. P: Mr. John Q: who was hardly six months old R: Charles as his son S: adopted

(a) S Q R P ✓
(b) P S Q R
(c) R S P Q
(d) P R S Q

Explanation: The correct sentence is: 'Mr. John adopted Charles as his son who was hardly six months old.' — P S R Q: 'Mr. John / adopted / Charles as his son / who was hardly six months old.' Option (b) P S Q R = 'Mr. John / adopted / who was hardly six months old / Charles as his son' — grammatically awkward. Option (a) S Q R P = 'adopted / who was hardly six months old / Charles as his son / Mr. John' — also awkward. The most natural reading 'Mr. John adopted Charles as his son who was hardly six months old' corresponds to P S R Q, but that is not listed. Among the options, (b) P S Q R is closest but places the relative clause before the object. Re-examining: option (a) S Q R P and option (b) P S Q R — option (b) gives 'Mr. John adopted [who was hardly six months old] Charles as his son' and option (a) gives 'adopted who was hardly six months old Charles as his son Mr. John.' The best answer among choices is (b) P S Q R forming 'Mr. John adopted Charles as his son who was hardly six months old' if we read P S R Q... but the listed option (b) is P S Q R. Closest coherent answer is (b).

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.21 [Vocabulary - Fill in the Blank]

In the face of the overwhelming mass of evidence against him, we cannot _______ him of the crime.

(a) punish
(b) absolve ✓
(c) release
(d) ignore

Explanation: 'Absolve' means to declare someone free from blame or guilt. In the context of overwhelming evidence, one cannot absolve (clear) him of the crime. The other options do not collocate with 'of the crime' in this legal sense.

Q.22 [Vocabulary - Fill in the Blank]

I hope that the rain will _______ for our picnic tomorrow.

(a) keep off ✓
(b) put off
(c) set back
(d) stay out

Explanation: 'Keep off' means to stay away or not occur, used idiomatically for rain (e.g., 'I hope the rain keeps off'). 'Put off' means to postpone, 'set back' means to delay progress, and 'stay out' does not fit this context.

Q.23 [Vocabulary - Fill in the Blank]

After the marathon, some of the competitors felt completely _______.

(a) cut up
(b) done in ✓
(c) done out
(d) run out

Explanation: 'Done in' is an idiom meaning completely exhausted, which perfectly fits the context of marathon competitors. 'Cut up' means upset/distressed, 'done out' is not standard, and 'run out' means depleted of something.

Q.24 [Grammar - Fill in the Blank]

Scarcely _______ the teacher entered the class when he heard the noise.

(a) did
(b) has
(c) had ✓
(d) will have

Explanation: 'Scarcely...when' requires the past perfect tense ('had'). The structure is 'Scarcely had + subject + past participle...when...' indicating one past action just preceded another.

Q.25 [Vocabulary - Fill in the Blank]

I do not think he will ever _______ the shock of his wife's death.

(a) get by
(b) get off
(c) get through
(d) get over ✓

Explanation: 'Get over' means to recover from something distressing, which fits 'the shock of his wife's death'. 'Get by' means to manage, 'get off' means to escape, and 'get through' means to complete something difficult.

Q.26 [Idioms - Fill in the Blank]

It is no use in crying over _______.

(a) spoiled milk
(b) spirited milk
(c) split milk
(d) spilt milk ✓

Explanation: The correct idiom is 'crying over spilt milk', meaning lamenting something that has already happened and cannot be undone. 'Spilt' is the standard British English past participle of 'spill'.

Q.27 [Grammar - Modal Verbs]

You must go to the station now, your brother _______ go just yet as his train leaves after three hours.

(a) shouldn't
(b) mustn't
(c) wouldn't
(d) needn't ✓

Explanation: 'Needn't' expresses lack of necessity or obligation, fitting the context that the brother has no need to go yet because his train leaves in three hours. 'Mustn't' expresses prohibition, 'shouldn't' expresses inadvisability, and 'wouldn't' is about willingness.

Q.28 [Vocabulary - Fill in the Blank]

Every rash driver becomes a _______ killer.

(a) sure
(b) reckless
(c) potential ✓
(d) powerful

Explanation: 'Potential' means having the possibility of becoming something, which aptly describes a rash driver as someone who could become a killer. 'Reckless' would be redundant since the driver is already described as 'rash'.

Q.29 [Vocabulary - Fill in the Blank]

The country owes a deep debt of _______ for the freedom fighters.

(a) patriotism
(b) sincerity
(c) remembrance
(d) gratitude ✓

Explanation: 'Debt of gratitude' is a fixed collocation meaning owing thankfulness to someone. The country is thankful to freedom fighters, so 'gratitude' is the correct choice.

Q.30 [Vocabulary - Fill in the Blank]

The whole lot of young men was very enthusiastic but your friend alone was _______.

(a) quarrelsome
(b) complaining
(c) a wet blanket ✓
(d) sleepy

Explanation: 'A wet blanket' is an idiom for a person who dampens enthusiasm or enthusiasm of others, which contrasts perfectly with the group's enthusiasm. It is the most fitting antithetical expression here.

Q.31 [Antonyms]

It was a mystery as to where the young girl had acquired such a naive belief.

(a) credulous
(b) childlike
(c) wise ✓
(d) innocent

Explanation: 'Naive' means showing a lack of experience or wisdom. Its antonym is 'wise', which means having experience, knowledge, and good judgment. 'Credulous', 'childlike', and 'innocent' are all synonyms or near-synonyms of naive.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.32 [Antonyms]

It's the only treatment suitable for cancer.

(a) insufficient
(b) impertinent ✓
(c) befitting
(d) congenial

Explanation: 'Suitable' means appropriate or fitting. Its antonym among the options is 'impertinent', which in its older/formal sense means not pertinent, not fitting or appropriate. 'Befitting' and 'congenial' are synonyms; 'insufficient' relates to quantity not appropriateness.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.33 [Antonyms]

Some of the criticisms which they had to put up were very unfair.

(a) scold
(b) scorn
(c) appreciation ✓
(d) censure

Explanation: 'Criticism' (negative judgment/fault-finding) is antonymous to 'appreciation' (recognition of good qualities). 'Scold', 'scorn', and 'censure' are all synonyms or related negative terms.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.34 [Antonyms]

I would beg of all friends not to rush to Birla house nor try to dissuade me or be anxious about me.

(a) certain
(b) composed ✓
(c) careless
(d) heedless

Explanation: 'Anxious' means worried and troubled. Its antonym is 'composed', meaning calm and self-possessed. 'Careless' and 'heedless' suggest indifference rather than calmness, and 'certain' relates to certainty not emotional state.

Q.35 [Antonyms]

It could not have been expected that, with such a bent of mind of the people, there should have been much activity for the cultivation of the physical sciences in this part of the world.

(a) dull
(b) dormant
(c) indolence ✓
(d) idle

Explanation: The underlined word 'activity' means energetic action or liveliness. Its antonym is 'indolence', meaning habitual laziness or inactivity. The other options (dull, dormant, idle) are adjectives whereas 'activity' is a noun, making 'indolence' the correct noun antonym.

Q.36 [Antonyms]

Indian culture has been, from time immemorial, of a peculiar cast and mould.

(a) common ✓
(b) customary
(c) natural
(d) familiar

Explanation: 'Peculiar' means distinctive, special, or unique. Its antonym is 'common', meaning ordinary, widespread, or not distinctive. 'Familiar' and 'customary' do not directly oppose uniqueness as strongly as 'common'.

Q.37 [Antonyms]

The princess charming was the centre of attraction today.

(a) enchanting
(b) hypnotic
(c) repulsive ✓
(d) fascinating

Explanation: 'Charming' means delightfully pleasing or attractive. Its antonym is 'repulsive', meaning causing disgust or aversion. 'Enchanting', 'hypnotic', and 'fascinating' are all synonyms of charming.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.38 [Antonyms]

Macbeth is a/an abominable figure.

(a) abhorrent
(b) repugnant
(c) reputable
(d) attractive ✓

Explanation: 'Abominable' means causing moral revulsion, extremely disagreeable. Its antonym is 'attractive', meaning pleasing or appealing. 'Abhorrent' and 'repugnant' are synonyms; 'reputable' means having a good reputation but does not directly oppose 'abominable' as strongly as 'attractive'.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.39 [Antonyms]

Terrorists profess fanatical ideology.

(a) bigoted
(b) militant
(c) moderate ✓
(d) fervid

Explanation: 'Fanatical' means filled with excessive and single-minded zeal. Its antonym is 'moderate', meaning avoiding extremes, not fanatical. 'Bigoted', 'militant', and 'fervid' are all synonyms or associated with fanaticism.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.40 [Antonyms]

Rakesh is vulnerable to political pressure.

(a) weak
(b) unguarded
(c) exposed
(d) resilient ✓

Explanation: 'Vulnerable' means susceptible to harm or attack. Its antonym is 'resilient', meaning able to recover quickly from difficulties, not easily affected. 'Weak', 'unguarded', and 'exposed' are all synonyms or similar in meaning to vulnerable.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.41 [Sentence Arrangement]

S1: First and foremost, there are order and safety in our civilization. S6: Nobody may come and break into my house and steal my goods. P: Thus in disputes between man and man, right has taken the place of might. Q: If today I have a quarrel with another man, I do not get beaten merely because I am physically weaker. R: I go to law, and the law will decide fairly between the two of us. S: Moreover, the law protects me from robbery and violence. Choose the correct order of P, Q, R, S to complete the passage.

(a) R Q P S
(b) S R Q P
(c) Q R P S ✓
(d) P R S Q

Explanation: Q follows S1 naturally (describing a personal quarrel), R follows Q (going to law), P follows R (conclusion that right replaces might), S follows P (law protects from robbery). Order Q R P S matches option (c).

Q.42 [Sentence Arrangement]

S1: In democratic countries, men are equal before the law. S6: And they live like this not for fun, but because they are too poor to afford another room. P: While some few people live in luxury, many have not enough to eat, drink and wear. Q: There are many families of five or six persons who live in a single room. R: But the sharing-out of money – which means the sharing-out of food and clothing and houses – is still very unfair. S: In this room they sleep and dress and wash and eat, and in this same room they die. Choose the correct order of P, Q, R, S to complete the passage.

(a) R P Q S ✓
(b) P R S Q
(c) Q S P R
(d) S P R Q

Explanation: R contrasts with S1 (money distribution is unfair), P elaborates (luxury vs. poverty), Q gives a specific example (families in one room), S describes details of that room — connecting to S6. Order R P Q S matches option (a).

Q.43 [Sentence Arrangement]

S1: Tomorrow it will be a year since we lost our great leader. S6: Though he is no more with us, the qualities he possessed and the ideals he cherished remain with us. P: To these he added a feminine sensitiveness to atmosphere. Q: He was involved in the major events of his time. R: He participated in them all while maintaining the highest standards of public conduct. S: He was incomparably the greatest figure in our history – a man of dynamic force, intellectual power and profound vision. Choose the correct order of P, Q, R, S to complete the passage.

(a) P S R Q
(b) R Q P S
(c) R P Q S
(d) S P Q R ✓

Explanation: S introduces his greatness, P adds another quality to those listed in S, Q notes his involvement in major events, R follows Q (he participated while maintaining standards). Order S P Q R matches option (d).

Q.44 [Sentence Arrangement]

S1: It would be possible to adduce many examples showing what could be done with the limited means at our ancestor's disposal in the way of making life comfortable. S6: I hope, in this essay, to make that connection manifest. P: What have comfort and cleanliness to do with politics, morals, and religion? Q: But look more closely and you will discover that there exists the closest connection between the recent growth of comfort and the recent history of ideas. R: They show that if they lived in filth and discomfort, it was because filth and discomfort fitted in with their principles, political, moral and religious. S: At a first glance one would say that there could be no causal connection between arm chairs and democracies, sofas and the family system, hot baths and religious orthodoxy. Choose the correct order of P, Q, R, S to complete the passage.

(a) P R Q S
(b) R P S Q ✓
(c) Q S R P
(d) Q S P R

Explanation: R follows S1 (examples show ancestors lived in discomfort by principle), P asks the rhetorical question prompted by R, S responds that at first glance no connection seems evident, Q then introduces the real connection — leading to S6. Order R P S Q matches option (b).

Q.45 [Sentence Arrangement]

S1: To most people, the term technology conjures up images of mills or machines. S6: It includes ways to make chemical reactions occur, ways to breed fish, plant forests or teach history. P: The classic symbol of technology is still the assembly line created by Henry Ford half a century ago. Q: The invention of the horse collar in the Middle Ages led to changes in agricultural methods and was as such a technological advance. R: Moreover, technology includes techniques, as well as the machines that may or may not be necessary to apply them. S: This symbol, however, has always been inadequate, for technology has always been more than factories and machines. Choose the correct order of P, Q, R, S to complete the passage.

(a) S P R Q
(b) P S Q R ✓
(c) R S P Q
(d) Q S R P

Explanation: P follows S1 (elaborates the classic symbol — assembly line), S contrasts P (symbol is inadequate), Q gives a historical example of broader technology, R generalises that technology includes techniques — leading to S6's examples. Order P S Q R matches option (b).

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.46 [Sentence Arrangement]

S1: I was the secretary of the Philosophical Society of the Patna College. S6: I have been to Kolkata many times since, but never has it been more pleasant than that first visit. P: It was my first visit to the city and its impression on my mind was indelible. Q: In that capacity, I once led a trip to Kolkata. R: I felt I had landed in the midst of beautiful dream world of a fairy land. S: I saw the roads, the trams, the skyscrapers and the magnificent shops at the Chowranghee lane. Choose the correct order of P, Q, R, S to complete the passage.

(a) Q P S R ✓
(b) P S Q R
(c) S R P Q
(d) S Q R P

Explanation: Q follows S1 (as secretary he led a trip), P establishes it was his first visit, S describes what he saw, R expresses his feeling — connecting naturally to S6 about the memorable first visit. Order Q P S R matches option (a).

Q.47 [Sentence Arrangement]

S1: Union finance ministry announced a series of concessions to trade and industry last month. S6: Manufacturers feel that prices of certain components may not be brought down because of the imposition of a 30 per cent duty where there was none earlier. P: Together, these will result in a loss of revenue of Rs. 100 crore to the exchequer. Q: Earlier, these were attracting customs duty varying from zero to 100 per cent. R: The chunk of the relief of Rs. 60 crore has gone to the electronics industry. S: Raw materials and piece parts now carry customs duty of 30 per cent and 40 per cent ad valorem respectively. Choose the correct order of P, Q, R, S to complete the passage.

(a) R S Q P ✓
(b) P R S Q
(c) S Q P R
(d) Q P R S

Explanation: R follows S1 (largest relief to electronics), S gives the specific new duty rates, Q states what the earlier rates were, P sums up the total revenue loss — setting context for S6's manufacturer concern. Order R S Q P matches option (a).

Q.48 [Sentence Arrangement]

S1: At four o'clock this morning, Hitler attacked and invaded Russia. S6: Under its cloak of false confidence, the German armies drew up in immense strength along a line which stretches from the White Sea to the Black Sea. P: No complaint had been made by Germany of its non-fulfilment. Q: All his usual formalities of perfidy were observed with scrupulous technique. R: No one could have expected that Hitler would do it. S: A non-aggression treaty had been solemnly signed and was in force between the two countries. Choose the correct order of P, Q, R, S to complete the passage.

(a) R Q S P
(b) R S Q P ✓
(c) P S Q R
(d) Q P S R

Explanation: R expresses surprise at the attack, S provides the background (non-aggression treaty), Q notes the perfidy with which it was done, P states no complaint about treaty breach was raised — leading to S6's description of German military build-up. Order R S Q P matches option (b).

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.49 [Sentence Arrangement]

S1: Roderick Usher has always been a quiet person who talked little of himself. S6: In the part of the country where he lived, the 'House of Usher' had come to mean both the family and its ancestral mansion. P: Many of his ancestors had been famous for their artistic and musical abilities. Q: Others were known for their exceptional generosity and charity. R: Yet I did know that his family was an old one. S: So I did not know too much about him. Choose the correct order of P, Q, R, S to complete the passage.

(a) P Q R S
(b) S R Q P
(c) S P R Q
(d) S R P Q ✓

Explanation: S follows S1 (narrator knew little about him), R introduces what was known — his old family, P elaborates (ancestors known for art and music), Q adds another quality (generosity) — connecting to S6 about the House of Usher name. Order S R P Q matches option (d).

Q.50 [Sentence Arrangement]

S1: Mass production has increased the tendency to view things as useful rather than delightful. S6: Indeed a lowering of quality usually results when mass production is substituted for more primitive methods. P: These various things share nothing with the buttons except money value. Q: All the rest you wish to exchange for food, shelter, and many other things. R: Suppose you are a manufacturer of buttons: however excellent your buttons may be, you do not want more than a few for your own use. S: And it is not even the money value of the buttons that is important to you: what is important is profit which may be increased by lowering their quality. Choose the correct order of P, Q, R, S to complete the passage.

(a) P Q R S
(b) R Q P S ✓
(c) S P Q R
(d) Q R P S

Explanation: R introduces the button manufacturer scenario, Q states most production is for exchange, P notes these exchanged goods share only money value with buttons, S concludes that profit (achieved by lowering quality) is what matters — leading to S6. Order R Q P S matches option (b).

Q.51 [Reading Comprehension]

Passage: Over-population is the most pressing of India's numerous and multi-faceted problems. In fact it has caused equally complex problems such as poverty, under-nourishment, unemployment and excessive fragmentation of land. Indisputably, this country has been facing a population explosion of crisis dimensions. It has largely diluted the fruits of the remarkable economic progress that the nation has made during the last four decades or so. The entire battle against poverty is thwarted by the rapid increase in the population. The tragedy is that while over-population accentuates poverty, the country's stark poverty itself is in many areas a major cause of over-population. What is the irony behind the over-population of India?

(a) Over-population gives birth to poverty, which (poverty) itself is the cause of over-population ✓
(b) Under-nourishment and unemployment are outcomes of flawed economic progress
(c) Fragmentation of land is leading to over-population
(d) Fruits of the remarkable economic progress are trickling down to the poor

Explanation: The passage explicitly states the tragedy/irony: over-population accentuates poverty and poverty itself is a major cause of over-population — a vicious cycle.

Q.52 [Reading Comprehension]

Passage: Over-population is the most pressing of India's numerous and multi-faceted problems. In fact it has caused equally complex problems such as poverty, under-nourishment, unemployment and excessive fragmentation of land. Indisputably, this country has been facing a population explosion of crisis dimensions. It has largely diluted the fruits of the remarkable economic progress that the nation has made during the last four decades or so. The entire battle against poverty is thwarted by the rapid increase in the population. The tragedy is that while over-population accentuates poverty, the country's stark poverty itself is in many areas a major cause of over-population. What is the general tone of the passage?

(a) funny / humorous
(b) sombre ✓
(c) didactic
(d) tragic

Explanation: The passage discusses serious social problems (poverty, over-population) in a grave, serious manner — making its tone sombre rather than humorous, instructive, or overtly tragic.

Q.53 [Reading Comprehension]

Passage: Over-population is the most pressing of India's numerous and multi-faceted problems. In fact it has caused equally complex problems such as poverty, under-nourishment, unemployment and excessive fragmentation of land. Indisputably, this country has been facing a population explosion of crisis dimensions. It has largely diluted the fruits of the remarkable economic progress that the nation has made during the last four decades or so. The entire battle against poverty is thwarted by the rapid increase in the population. The tragedy is that while over-population accentuates poverty, the country's stark poverty itself is in many areas a major cause of over-population. What, in the author's view, severely affects the economic growth of our country?

(a) poverty
(b) illiteracy
(c) over-population ✓
(d) None of the above

Explanation: The passage states over-population 'has largely diluted the fruits of the remarkable economic progress' and 'thwarts the battle against poverty', making over-population the factor the author identifies as severely affecting economic growth.

Q.54 [Reading Comprehension]

Passage: Over-population is the most pressing of India's numerous and multi-faceted problems. In fact it has caused equally complex problems such as poverty, under-nourishment, unemployment and excessive fragmentation of land. Indisputably, this country has been facing a population explosion of crisis dimensions. It has largely diluted the fruits of the remarkable economic progress that the nation has made during the last four decades or so. The entire battle against poverty is thwarted by the rapid increase in the population. The tragedy is that while over-population accentuates poverty, the country's stark poverty itself is in many areas a major cause of over-population. What, according to the author, is the biggest reason behind over-population?

(a) under-nourishment
(b) unemployment
(c) excessive fragmentation of land
(d) poverty ✓

Explanation: The passage directly states that 'the country's stark poverty itself is in many areas a major cause of over-population', identifying poverty as the biggest reason behind over-population.

Q.55 [Reading Comprehension]

Passage: Over-population is the most pressing of India's numerous and multi-faceted problems. In fact it has caused equally complex problems such as poverty, under-nourishment, unemployment and excessive fragmentation of land. Indisputably, this country has been facing a population explosion of crisis dimensions. It has largely diluted the fruits of the remarkable economic progress that the nation has made during the last four decades or so. The entire battle against poverty is thwarted by the rapid increase in the population. The tragedy is that while over-population accentuates poverty, the country's stark poverty itself is in many areas a major cause of over-population. 'It has largely diluted the fruits of the remarkable economic progress.' Find the antonym of the underlined word 'diluted'.

(a) coalesced
(b) compounded
(c) cheapened
(d) consolidated ✓

Explanation: 'Diluted' means weakened or made less concentrated; its antonym is 'consolidated', meaning strengthened or made more solid/concentrated.

Q.56 [Reading Comprehension]

Passage: To eat and not be eaten — that's the imperative of a caterpillar's existence. The leaf roller reduces its risks of being picked off by predators by silking together a temporary shelter in which to feed and rest. Adopting a different line of defense, the jelly slug extrudes a sticky translucent coating that may foul the mouth-parts of marauding ants. For its part, the aquatic larva, by its watery element, fashions a portable hideout from fragments of aquatic leaves. Cutting a serpentine trail as it feeds on tender young leaves, the minute citrus leaf miner spends its entire larval life inside its host plant, thus keeping its appetizing body safely under wraps. Which varieties of caterpillars 'build' shelters to protect themselves?

(a) Leaf roller and aquatic larva ✓
(b) Leaf roller and jelly slug
(c) Jelly slug and aquatic larva
(d) Jelly slug and citrus leaf miner

Explanation: The leaf roller 'silks together a temporary shelter' and the aquatic larva 'fashions a portable hideout from fragments of aquatic leaves' — both physically build shelters.

Q.57 [Reading Comprehension]

Passage: To eat and not be eaten — that's the imperative of a caterpillar's existence. The leaf roller reduces its risks of being picked off by predators by silking together a temporary shelter in which to feed and rest. Adopting a different line of defense, the jelly slug extrudes a sticky translucent coating that may foul the mouth-parts of marauding ants. For its part, the aquatic larva, by its watery element, fashions a portable hideout from fragments of aquatic leaves. Cutting a serpentine trail as it feeds on tender young leaves, the minute citrus leaf miner spends its entire larval life inside its host plant, thus keeping its appetizing body safely under wraps. Which one of the following caterpillars produces a sticky covering?

(a) Leaf roller
(b) Jelly slug ✓
(c) Aquatic larva
(d) Citrus leaf miner

Explanation: The passage states the jelly slug 'extrudes a sticky translucent coating', clearly identifying it as the one that produces a sticky covering.

Q.58 [Reading Comprehension]

Passage: To eat and not be eaten — that's the imperative of a caterpillar's existence. The leaf roller reduces its risks of being picked off by predators by silking together a temporary shelter in which to feed and rest. Adopting a different line of defense, the jelly slug extrudes a sticky translucent coating that may foul the mouth-parts of marauding ants. For its part, the aquatic larva, by its watery element, fashions a portable hideout from fragments of aquatic leaves. Cutting a serpentine trail as it feeds on tender young leaves, the minute citrus leaf miner spends its entire larval life inside its host plant, thus keeping its appetizing body safely under wraps. Which one of the following pairs of words in the passage describes enemies of the caterpillar?

(a) Serpentine and host
(b) Predator and marauding ✓
(c) Serpentine and marauding
(d) Predator and host

Explanation: 'Predators' are animals that eat caterpillars, and 'marauding' (ants) means attacking/pillaging — both words describe enemies. 'Serpentine' means winding/snake-like (describing the trail) and 'host' refers to the plant.

Q.59 [Reading Comprehension]

Passage: To eat and not be eaten — that's the imperative of a caterpillar's existence. The leaf roller reduces its risks of being picked off by predators by silking together a temporary shelter in which to feed and rest. Adopting a different line of defense, the jelly slug extrudes a sticky translucent coating that may foul the mouth-parts of marauding ants. For its part, the aquatic larva, by its watery element, fashions a portable hideout from fragments of aquatic leaves. Cutting a serpentine trail as it feeds on tender young leaves, the minute citrus leaf miner spends its entire larval life inside its host plant, thus keeping its appetizing body safely under wraps. Which one of the following makes itself unpalatable?

(a) Leaf roller
(b) Jelly slug ✓
(c) Aquatic larva
(d) Leaf miner

Explanation: The jelly slug's sticky coating 'may foul the mouth-parts of marauding ants', making it unpalatable/unpleasant to eat — the others use physical shelters or concealment rather than making themselves unpleasant to consume.

Q.60 [Reading Comprehension]

Passage: To eat and not be eaten — that's the imperative of a caterpillar's existence. The leaf roller reduces its risks of being picked off by predators by silking together a temporary shelter in which to feed and rest. Adopting a different line of defense, the jelly slug extrudes a sticky translucent coating that may foul the mouth-parts of marauding ants. For its part, the aquatic larva, by its watery element, fashions a portable hideout from fragments of aquatic leaves. Cutting a serpentine trail as it feeds on tender young leaves, the minute citrus leaf miner spends its entire larval life inside its host plant, thus keeping its appetizing body safely under wraps. The main idea of the passage is that caterpillars

(a) like to eat a lot
(b) have to protect themselves while feeding ✓
(c) are good to eat
(d) are not good to eat

Explanation: The passage opens with 'To eat and not be eaten — that's the imperative' and then describes various defense strategies caterpillars use while feeding, making option (b) the central theme.

Q.61 [Reading Comprehension]

The words 'the Orient and the Occident' mean

(a) the West and the East respectively
(b) the East and the West respectively ✓
(c) the North and the South respectively
(d) the South and the North respectively

Explanation: 'Orient' refers to the East and 'Occident' refers to the West, so together 'the Orient and the Occident' means the East and the West respectively.

Q.62 [Reading Comprehension]

The author believes that the difference between India and Europe in the 12th or 13th century was not very great because

(a) Indians and Europeans mixed freely
(b) Indians imitated the European way of living
(c) Europeans imitated the Indian way of living
(d) Industrialization had not yet taken place ✓

Explanation: The author's argument is that industrialization created the great divide between East and West; before industrialization in the 12th or 13th century, the difference was not very significant.

Q.63 [Reading Comprehension]

In the opinion of the author, Industrialization is

(a) an absolute blessing
(b) an absolute curse
(c) neither a blessing nor a curse
(d) more of a curse than a blessing ✓

Explanation: The passage highlights the negative impacts of industrialization on civilization and mental life, suggesting the author views it as more of a curse than a blessing, not an outright absolute evil.

Q.64 [Reading Comprehension]

The author says that the mental life of the world is in a process of deterioration because the modern generation is

(a) endowed with low mental powers
(b) too lazy to exert its mental powers
(c) taught that physical activities are more important than mental
(d) brought up in an environment unfavourable to the growth of the mental life ✓

Explanation: The author attributes the deterioration of mental life to the environment created by industrialization, which is unfavourable to mental growth, not to inherent laziness or low mental powers.

Q.65 [Reading Comprehension]

The title that best expresses the central idea of the passage is

(a) Difference between the Occident and the Orient
(b) Impact of Industrialization on our Civilization ✓
(c) Advantages of Industrialization
(d) Disadvantages of Industrialization

Explanation: The passage broadly discusses how industrialization has affected civilization including the divide between East and West and the deterioration of mental life, making 'Impact of Industrialization on our Civilization' the most comprehensive title.

Q.66 [Reading Comprehension]

Passage: In Delhi, it was forbidden by the law, at one time, to take a Dog into a public vehicle. One day a lady, accompanied by a pet dog, entered a bus. Wishing to evade the law, she placed her tiny dog in her dress pocket. It so happened that the person next to this lady was a pick-pocket; and during the journey he carefully placed his hand into her pocket in search of her purse. Great was the horror to find instead a pair of sharp teeth inserted into his fingers. His exclamation of pain and surprise drew the attention of other passengers to him. Once the law in Delhi did not permit the people to

(a) carry dogs into private vehicles
(b) board a bus without ticket
(c) carry dogs into a public vehicle ✓
(d) carry animals with them

Explanation: The passage clearly states that the law forbade taking a dog into a public vehicle, not private vehicles or animals in general.

Q.67 [Reading Comprehension]

In order to evade the law, the lady

(a) hid the dog under the seat
(b) got off the bus
(c) gave the dog to a fellow passenger
(d) put the dog in her pocket ✓

Explanation: The passage explicitly states that 'she placed her tiny dog in her dress pocket' to evade the law.

Q.68 [Reading Comprehension]

The pick-pocket travelling with the lady

(a) reported the matter to the conductor
(b) put his hand in her pocket ✓
(c) took out the dog
(d) asked the lady to get off

Explanation: The passage states that 'he carefully placed his hand into her pocket in search of her purse,' confirming option (b).

Q.69 [Reading Comprehension]

Which one of the following correctly expresses the meaning of 'wishing to evade the law'?

(a) Wish to avoid following the law
(b) Desire to follow the law blindly
(c) Reluctance to break the law
(d) Wish to avoid being caught breaking the law ✓

Explanation: 'Evade the law' means to avoid the consequences or detection of breaking the law, so the correct meaning is the wish to avoid being caught breaking the law.

Q.70 [Reading Comprehension]

Why did the pick-pocket exclaim with pain?

(a) He was hit by the lady
(b) He was caught by the fellow-passengers
(c) He was bitten by the dog ✓
(d) He fell off the bus

Explanation: The passage states that his hand encountered 'a pair of sharp teeth inserted into his fingers,' meaning the dog bit him, causing him to exclaim in pain.

Q.71 [Spotting Errors]

The best way in which (a) you can open the bottle is by putting it into hot water first. (b) No error. (c)

(a) The best way in which ✓
(b) is by putting it into hot water first.
(c) No error.
(d) No error (d)

Explanation: The correct phrase is 'The best way to' not 'The best way in which'; 'in which' is grammatically redundant here and non-idiomatic — the error is in part (a).

Q.72 [Spotting Errors]

Somebody who (a) I enjoy reading (b) is Tagore. No error. (c) (d)

(a) Somebody who ✓
(b) I enjoy reading
(c) No error.
(d) No error (d)

Explanation: 'Somebody who' should be 'Somebody whom' because it is the object of 'reading' — 'whom I enjoy reading' is the grammatically correct relative clause.

Q.73 [Spotting Errors]

Electricity companies are working (a) throughout days and nights (b) to repair the damage. (c) No error. (d)

(a) Electricity companies are working
(b) throughout days and nights ✓
(c) to repair the damage.
(d) No error.

Explanation: The correct idiomatic expression is 'day and night' (without articles and in singular form), not 'throughout days and nights'; the error is in part (b).

Q.74 [Spotting Errors]

The students' test results (a) were pleasant. (b) No error. (c) (d)

(a) The students' test results
(b) were pleasant. ✓
(c) No error.
(d) No error (d)

Explanation: 'Results' cannot be described as 'pleasant'; the correct word would be 'pleasing' — results are pleasing (they produce pleasure), not pleasant (which describes a quality of persons or atmosphere).

Q.75 [Spotting Errors]

Two thirds of the book (a) were rubbish. (b) No error. (c) (d)

(a) Two thirds of the book
(b) were rubbish. ✓
(c) No error.
(d) No error (d)

Explanation: When a fraction refers to a singular noun ('the book'), the verb should be singular: 'was rubbish' not 'were rubbish'; the error is in part (b).

Q.76 [Spotting Errors]

You will be answerable (a) for the court (b) with any lies you have told. (c) No error. (d)

(a) You will be answerable
(b) for the court ✓
(c) with any lies you have told.
(d) No error.

Explanation: The correct preposition after 'answerable' in the context of a legal/authority setting is 'to' not 'for' — 'answerable to the court'; the error is in part (b).

Q.77 [Spotting Errors]

She felt terribly anxious (a) for have to sing (b) in front of such a large audience. (c) No error. (d)

(a) She felt terribly anxious
(b) for have to sing ✓
(c) in front of such a large audience.
(d) No error.

Explanation: 'For have to sing' is grammatically incorrect; the correct form is 'about having to sing' — the error is in part (b) where 'for have' should be 'about having'.

Q.78 [Spotting Errors]

I don't agree (a) with smacking children (b) if they do something wrong. (c) No error. (d)

(a) I don't agree
(b) with smacking children
(c) if they do something wrong.
(d) No error. ✓

Explanation: The sentence is grammatically correct as written — 'agree with smacking' correctly uses a gerund after the preposition 'with', and the conditional clause is properly formed.

Q.79 [Spotting Errors]

The fruit (a) can be made (b) to jam. (c) No error. (d)

(a) The fruit
(b) can be made
(c) to jam. ✓
(d) No error.

Explanation: The correct prepositional phrase is 'into jam' not 'to jam' — fruit is made 'into' jam; the error is in part (c).

Q.80 [Spotting Errors]

I asked him (a) what he has done. (b) No error. (c) (d)

(a) I asked him
(b) what he has done. ✓
(c) No error.
(d) No error (d)

Explanation: In reported speech following a past tense verb ('asked'), the embedded clause must also be in past tense: 'what he had done' not 'what he has done'; the error is in part (b).

Q.81 [Error Spotting]

There have been (a) a tornado watch issued (b) for Texas country until eleven O'clock tonight. (c) No error. (d)

(a) There have been ✓
(b) a tornado watch issued
(c) for Texas country until eleven O'clock tonight.
(d) No error

Explanation: The correct verb form should be 'There has been' (singular subject 'a tornado watch'). 'There have been' is incorrect here.

Q.82 [Error Spotting]

Although the Red Cross accepts blood from the donors (a) the nurses will not leave you give blood, (b) if you have just had cold. (c) No error. (d)

(a) Although the Red Cross accepts blood from the donors
(b) the nurses will not leave you give blood, ✓
(c) if you have just had cold.
(d) No error

Explanation: 'Leave' should be replaced with 'let' when meaning 'allow'. The correct phrase is 'will not let you give blood'.

Q.83 [Error Spotting]

A prism is used (a) to refract white light (b) so it spreads out in a continuous spectrum. (c) No error. (d)

(a) A prism is used
(b) to refract white light
(c) so it spreads out in a continuous spectrum. ✓
(d) No error

Explanation: The conjunction 'so that' is required here instead of just 'so'. The correct form is 'so that it spreads out in a continuous spectrum'.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.84 [Error Spotting]

Because of the movement of a glacier, (a) the form of the Great Lakes (b) was very slow. (c) No error. (d)

(a) Because of the movement of a glacier,
(b) the form of the Great Lakes ✓
(c) was very slow.
(d) No error

Explanation: 'The form' should be 'the formation' — the word needed here is a noun referring to the process of being formed, not the shape/structure.

Q.85 [Error Spotting]

The new model (a) costs twice more (b) than last year's model. (c) No error. (d)

(a) The new model
(b) costs twice more ✓
(c) than last year's model.
(d) No error

Explanation: 'Twice more' is incorrect; the correct expression is 'twice as much' (costs twice as much as last year's model).

Q.86 [Error Spotting]

Gandhiji always regretted (a) for the fact that people gave him adulation (b) while what he wanted was acceptance of his way of life. (c) No error. (d)

(a) Gandhiji always regretted
(b) for the fact that people gave him adulation ✓
(c) while what he wanted was acceptance of his way of life.
(d) No error

Explanation: 'Regretted for' is incorrect; 'regret' does not take the preposition 'for'. The correct form is simply 'regretted the fact that'.

Q.87 [Error Spotting]

The party was (a) ousted in power (b) after twelve years. (c) No error. (d)

(a) The party was
(b) ousted in power ✓
(c) after twelve years.
(d) No error

Explanation: The correct phrase is 'ousted from power', not 'ousted in power'. 'Oust' requires the preposition 'from'.

Q.88 [Error Spotting]

He was held (a) in the Prevention of Terrorism Act. (b) No error. (c) (d)

(a) He was held
(b) in the Prevention of Terrorism Act. ✓
(c) No error
(d) (no fourth segment)

Explanation: The correct preposition is 'under', not 'in'. One is held 'under' an act, not 'in' an act.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.89 [Error Spotting]

He has great fascination (a) for each and every thing (b) that are connected with drama. (c) No error. (d)

(a) He has great fascination
(b) for each and every thing
(c) that are connected with drama. ✓
(d) No error

Explanation: 'Each and every thing' is singular, so the verb should be 'that is connected with drama', not 'that are connected'.

Q.90 [Error Spotting]

It's no secret (a) that the President wants to have (b) a second term of office. (c) No error. (d)

(a) It's no secret
(b) that the President wants to have
(c) a second term of office.
(d) No error ✓

Explanation: The sentence is grammatically correct and idiomatic. There is no error.

Q.91 [Cloze Comprehension]

One of India's greatest musicians is M.S. Subbulakshmi, affectionately known to most people as M.S. Her singing has brought ______ to millions of people not only [over/on/in/with] all parts of India, but in [strange/unknown/other/familiar] countries around the world as well. (Fill blank 91)

(a) sorrow
(b) joy ✓
(c) boredom
(d) pain

Explanation: The passage praises M.S. Subbulakshmi's singing; 'joy' is the most positive and contextually appropriate word — great musicians bring joy to listeners.

Q.92 [Cloze Comprehension]

Her singing has brought joy to millions of people not only ______ all parts of India, but in other countries around the world as well. (Fill blank 92)

(a) over
(b) on
(c) in ✓
(d) with

Explanation: The correct preposition is 'in' — 'not only in all parts of India' is the standard idiomatic usage.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.93 [Cloze Comprehension]

Her singing has brought joy to millions of people not only in all parts of India, but in ______ countries around the world as well. (Fill blank 93)

(a) strange
(b) unknown
(c) other ✓
(d) familiar

Explanation: 'Other countries' is the natural, neutral complement to 'all parts of India' — indicating countries beyond India.

Q.94 [Cloze Comprehension]

______ October 1966 Subbulakshmi was invited to sing in New York. (Fill blank 94)

(a) Within
(b) On
(c) In ✓
(d) By

Explanation: 'In October 1966' is the correct prepositional usage for a month-year reference.

Q.95 [Cloze Comprehension]

In October 1966 Subbulakshmi was invited to ______ in New York, where people of all foreign countries listened to her music attentively. (Fill blank 95)

(a) dance
(b) sing ✓
(c) speak
(d) enjoy

Explanation: M.S. Subbulakshmi is a vocalist/musician, so she was invited to 'sing', which is consistent with her being described as a musician throughout the passage.

Q.96 [Cloze Comprehension]

In October 1966 Subbulakshmi was invited to sing in New York, where people of ______ countries listened to her music attentively. (Fill blank 96)

(a) many foreign
(b) few
(c) backward
(d) all ✓

Explanation: 'People of all countries' conveys the universal appeal of her music, which is consistent with the tone of the passage celebrating her global reach.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.97 [Cloze Comprehension]

...where people of all countries listened to her music ______. This was one of the greatest honours ever given to any musician. (Fill blank 97)

(a) attentively ✓
(b) quietly
(c) indifferently
(d) boldly

Explanation: 'Attentively' reflects engaged, appreciative listening, consistent with the passage's celebratory tone about Subbulakshmi's impact on audiences.

Q.98 [Cloze Comprehension]

This was one of the greatest ______ ever given to any musician. (Fill blank 98)

(a) awards
(b) honours ✓
(c) prizes
(d) recognitions

Explanation: 'Honours' best fits the context of being invited to perform at an international venue — it is a mark of distinction and respect, not a competitive prize or award.

Q.99 [Cloze Comprehension]

For ______ together M.S. kept that international audience spell-bound with the beauty of her voice and her style of singing. (Fill blank 99)

(a) seconds
(b) minutes
(c) hours ✓
(d) days

Explanation: 'Hours together' is a natural Indian English expression meaning for several hours continuously, appropriate for a concert performance.

Q.100 [Cloze Comprehension]

M.S. kept that international ______ spell-bound with the beauty of her voice and her style of singing. (Fill blank 100)

(a) spectator
(b) audience ✓
(c) viewer
(d) businessman

Explanation: 'Audience' is the correct collective noun for people attending a musical concert or performance.

Q.101 [Cloze Comprehension]

The Second Anglo-Maratha War had shattered the ______ of the Maratha chiefs, but not their spirit. (Fill blank 101)

(a) power ✓
(b) dignity
(c) time
(d) patience

Explanation: Wars shatter 'power' — military and political power of the Maratha chiefs was broken, which contextually fits the subsequent mention of loss of freedom and attempts to regain independence.

Q.102 [Cloze Comprehension]

The ______ of their freedom rankled in their hearts. (Fill blank 102)

(a) disappearance
(b) empowerment
(c) loss ✓
(d) disappoint

Explanation: 'Loss of their freedom rankled in their hearts' is the standard idiomatic expression; 'loss' collocates naturally with 'freedom' and 'rankle'.

Q.103 [Cloze Comprehension]

They made a last ______ attempt to regain their independence and old prestige in 1817. (Fill blank 103)

(a) horrible
(b) desperate ✓
(c) poor
(d) strong

Explanation: 'Desperate attempt' is a fixed collocation meaning a final, urgent effort driven by hopelessness — perfectly fitting the context of a last bid for independence.

Q.104 [Cloze Comprehension]

They made a last desperate attempt to regain their independence and old ______ in 1817. (Fill blank 104)

(a) prestige ✓
(b) army
(c) rebellion
(d) infantry

Explanation: 'Old prestige' refers to their former glory and status — the Marathas sought to restore their honour and standing, which they had lost after the war.

Q.105 [Cloze Comprehension]

The lead in organizing a united front of the Maratha chiefs was taken by the Peshwa who was smarting under the ______ control exercised by the British Resident. (Fill blank 105)

(a) pleasant
(b) satisfying
(c) rigid ✓
(d) orthodox

Explanation: 'Rigid control' conveys the strict, unyielding authority of the British Resident, which explains why the Peshwa was 'smarting' (feeling resentful) under it.

Q.106 [Idioms and Phrases]

A hot potato.

(a) A dish to relish when it is hot
(b) A very important person in a gathering
(c) An issue which is disputed, and catching the attention of people ✓
(d) A way of thinking what someone is thinking

Explanation: 'A hot potato' idiomatically means a controversial or sensitive issue that is difficult to handle and draws public attention.

Q.107 [Idioms and Phrases]

You snooze, you lose.

(a) Don't take it lightly ✓
(b) Don't be over-enthusiastic
(c) Don't hesitate to do it
(d) Don't be pessimistic

Explanation: 'You snooze, you lose' means if you are not alert or take things lightly, you will miss opportunities — closest to 'Don't take it lightly'.

Q.108 [Idioms and Phrases]

I don't buy it.

(a) I don't believe it ✓
(b) I have no money
(c) I summarize it
(d) I don't need it

Explanation: 'I don't buy it' is an idiom meaning 'I don't believe it' or I'm not convinced by it.

Q.109 [Idioms and Phrases]

My two cents.

(a) My money
(b) My opinion ✓
(c) My decision
(d) My explanation

Explanation: 'My two cents' is an idiom meaning 'my opinion' — it refers to offering one's personal viewpoint on a matter.

Q.110 [Idioms and Phrases]

Out of the blue.

(a) Undoubtedly
(b) Unexpectedly ✓
(c) Unbelievably
(d) Unconcerned

Explanation: 'Out of the blue' means something that happens suddenly and without warning, i.e., unexpectedly.

Q.111 [Idioms and Phrases]

What a small world.

(a) What a coincidence ✓
(b) What a challenging task
(c) What a narrow space
(d) What a beautiful place

Explanation: 'What a small world' is used to express surprise at an unexpected coincidence, especially meeting someone you know in an unlikely place.

Q.112 [Idioms and Phrases]

Down the road.

(a) In future ✓
(b) In the past
(c) At present
(d) No particular time

Explanation: 'Down the road' idiomatically means 'in the future' — referring to something that will happen at a later time.

Q.113 [Idioms and Phrases]

Raising eyebrows.

(a) To show surprise ✓
(b) Criticize
(c) Support
(d) Instruct

Explanation: 'Raising eyebrows' means to cause surprise or mild disapproval; the primary meaning is to show surprise or astonishment.

Q.114 [Idioms and Phrases]

Step up the plate.

(a) Take control
(b) Take a job
(c) Take a responsibility ✓
(d) Take an opportunity

Explanation: 'Step up to the plate' (the correct form) means to take on a responsibility or challenge when called upon, especially in a difficult situation.

Q.115 [Idioms and Phrases]

The Holy Grail.

(a) The pious place of worship
(b) An important object or goal ✓
(c) A very important place
(d) Someone's destination of life

Explanation: 'The Holy Grail' idiomatically refers to something that is eagerly sought after or considered an ideal or ultimate goal — an important object or aspiration.

Q.116 [Idioms and Phrases]

You scratch my back. I'll scratch yours.

(a) Mutual favour ✓
(b) Mutual understanding
(c) Mutual respect
(d) Mutual disliking

Explanation: The idiom 'You scratch my back, I'll scratch yours' means doing a favour for someone in exchange for a favour in return — i.e., mutual favour.

Q.117 [Idioms and Phrases]

At the drop of a hat.

(a) Without any hesitation ✓
(b) When attempt fails and it's time to start all over
(c) To further a loss with mockery
(d) Judging other's intentions too much

Explanation: 'At the drop of a hat' means immediately, without any hesitation or delay.

Q.118 [Idioms and Phrases]

Ball is in your court.

(a) Be happy at the dance / ball room
(b) It's up to you to make the decision ✓
(c) A very powerful person
(d) Not speaking directly about an issue

Explanation: 'The ball is in your court' means it is now your responsibility or turn to take action or make a decision.

Q.119 [Idioms and Phrases]

Best of both worlds.

(a) A happy person who is the best with all
(b) All the advantages ✓
(c) To take on a task that is way too big
(d) Someone whom everybody likes

Explanation: 'Best of both worlds' means enjoying all the advantages of two different situations simultaneously.

Q.120 [Idioms and Phrases]

Costs an arm and a leg.

(a) Severe punishment to someone
(b) Too much consciousness about one's body
(c) Two difficult alternatives
(d) Something very expensive ✓

Explanation: 'Costs an arm and a leg' is an idiom meaning something is extremely expensive.