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CDS II 2018 English with Solutions

Exam: CDS Year: 2018 (Session II) Questions: 97 Marks: 100 Negative Marking: 1/3

Q.1 [Grammar – Prepositions/Phrasal Verbs]

My teacher was ______ us for being late.

(a) annoyed at
(b) annoyed with ✓
(c) annoyed about
(d) annoys

Explanation: 'Annoyed with' is the correct collocation when the object is a person. 'Annoyed with someone' is standard British/Indian English usage.

Q.2 [Grammar – Prepositions/Phrasal Verbs]

Sandhya ______ me from the top of the house.

(a) shouted to ✓
(b) shouted at
(c) shouted on
(d) shouted

Explanation: 'Shouted to' means calling out to someone to get their attention (communication across a distance), which fits the context of calling from the top of the house. 'Shouted at' implies anger.

Q.3 [Grammar – Prepositions/Phrasal Verbs]

Ravi has the habit of ______ headache.

(a) complaming
(b) complam
(c) complaining to
(d) complaining of ✓

Explanation: 'Complaining of' is the correct collocation when referring to a symptom or ailment, e.g., 'complaining of a headache'. Options (a) and (b) are misspellings of 'complaining'.

Q.4 [Grammar – Prepositions/Phrasal Verbs]

I always want to go alone for a ride, but my mother ______ going with my brother.

(a) insists
(b) insists on ✓
(c) insists in
(d) insisted

Explanation: 'Insist on' is the correct phrasal verb when followed by a gerund (going). 'Insists on going' is the grammatically standard form.

Q.5 [Grammar – Phrasal Verbs]

The new student found it difficult to ______ with his classmates.

(a) get along ✓
(b) get among
(c) get well
(d) get up

Explanation: 'Get along with' means to have a friendly relationship with someone. It is the appropriate phrasal verb in the context of social compatibility.

Q.6 [Grammar – Phrasal Verbs]

The visiting Diplomat ______ the Prime Minister.

(a) called in
(b) called at
(c) called on ✓
(d) called up on

Explanation: 'Called on' means to pay an official or formal visit to someone (especially a person of high rank). It is the standard expression for a diplomat visiting a head of government.

Q.7 [Grammar – Conditionals]

______ sincere he would have got the prize.

(a) Had he been ✓
(b) Has he been
(c) Would he have been
(d) He is

Explanation: This is a third conditional (unreal past) sentence. Inverted form 'Had he been sincere…' is equivalent to 'If he had been sincere…', which is grammatically correct.

Q.8 [Grammar – Subject-Verb Agreement]

______ for me to live in a foreign country.

(a) are a long time
(b) is a long time ✓
(c) has a long time
(d) of time

Explanation: The sentence 'It is a long time for me to live in a foreign country' uses the impersonal 'it' as subject with singular verb 'is'. 'Is a long time' is the only grammatically correct option.

Q.9 [Grammar – Conditionals]

If you ______ love to accept the offer,

(a) was ....... will
(b) was ....... would
(c) were ....... would ✓
(d) were ....... will

Explanation: Second conditional (hypothetical present/future): 'If you were…, you would…'. The subjunctive 'were' is used with second-person subjects in formal conditionals, paired with 'would' in the main clause.

Q.10 [Grammar – Reported Speech]

My sister asked me ______ willing to go abroad for my studies.

(a) if I were ✓
(b) if I could be
(c) whether I should be
(d) whether I will

Explanation: In reported speech, 'asked me if I were willing' uses the correct backshifted subjunctive/past form. 'If I were' correctly reports the indirect question with appropriate tense and mood.

Q.11 [Synonyms]

Rahul is always thrifty.

(a) reckless
(b) economical ✓
(c) naive
(d) extravagant

Explanation: 'Thrifty' means careful with money and avoiding waste, which is synonymous with 'economical'. 'Extravagant' and 'reckless' are antonyms; 'naive' means innocent/inexperienced.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.12 [Synonyms]

His salubrious words calmed the students.

(a) provoking
(b) pleasant ✓
(c) ridiculous
(d) thanking

Explanation: 'Salubrious' means health-giving or pleasant/agreeable. In the context of words that calm students, 'pleasant' is the closest synonym.

Q.13 [Synonyms]

He felt desolated after he lost his business.

(a) deserted ✓
(b) joyful
(c) strong
(d) annoyed

Explanation: 'Desolated' means feeling utterly alone and abandoned/empty; 'deserted' captures this sense of being forsaken or bereft. The other options are either opposites or unrelated.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.14 [Synonyms]

Don't condone such acts which lead to unrest in the country.

(a) regard
(b) punish
(c) aware of
(d) overlook ✓

Explanation: 'Condone' means to accept or allow behaviour considered morally wrong to continue — effectively to overlook or excuse it. 'Overlook' is the closest synonym.

Q.15 [Synonyms]

A good work place shall not encourage ineptitude even in a hidden manner.

(a) incompetence ✓
(b) courage
(c) gossip
(d) radical thinking

Explanation: 'Ineptitude' means lack of skill or ability, which is synonymous with 'incompetence'. The other options are unrelated to the meaning.

Q.16 [Synonyms]

Learning of foreign language should not impede one's mother tongue learning.

(a) facilitate
(b) acts for
(c) hinder ✓
(d) accept

Explanation: 'Impede' means to obstruct or slow down progress, which is synonymous with 'hinder'. 'Facilitate' is the antonym.

Q.17 [Synonyms]

Extradition of the leader of the group was debated for hours in the meeting.

(a) acceptance
(b) sentence
(c) extension
(d) deportation ✓

Explanation: 'Extradition' is the formal process of sending a person accused of a crime to the country where the crime was committed; 'deportation' (expulsion from a country) is the nearest synonym among the options.

Q.18 [Synonyms]

It was felt that the decision to remove the group from the exercise would be detrimental to the organization.

(a) beneficial
(b) harsh
(c) disadvantageous ✓
(d) demanding

Explanation: 'Detrimental' means causing harm or damage, which is synonymous with 'disadvantageous'. 'Beneficial' is the antonym.

Q.19 [Synonyms]

His derisive behaviour has led to the situation we face now.

(a) mockery
(b) conducive
(c) encouraging
(d) contemptuous ✓

Explanation: 'Derisive' means expressing contempt or ridicule. As an adjective modifying 'behaviour', 'contemptuous' is the closest synonym. 'Mockery' is a noun and does not fit the adjectival slot.

Q.20 [Synonyms]

Any classroom should provide an engaging environment for learners.

(a) carefree
(b) appealing ✓
(c) thinking
(d) dreaming

Explanation: 'Engaging' means attractive and interesting, which is synonymous with 'appealing'. The other options do not capture the meaning of holding attention and interest.

Q.21 [Reading Comprehension]

Which of the following statements are true? 1. Senior citizens in India have high level of Alzheimer's disease because of consumption of turmeric. 2. Senior citizens in India do not have high prevalence of Alzheimer's because of consumption of turmeric. 3. Consumption of turmeric enhances cognitive performance. 4. Consumption of turmeric causes memory loss. Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 2, 3 and 4 ✓
(b) 1, 3 and 4
(c) 1 and 4 only
(d) 1 and 3 only

Explanation: Statements 2 and 3 are supported by the passage — turmeric reduces Alzheimer's prevalence and enhances cognitive performance. Statement 1 is contradicted and statement 4 is false per the passage context.

Q.22 [Reading Comprehension]

Curcumin has positive effect on people

(a) without dementia
(b) with Alzheimer's disease
(c) without dementia and with Alzheimer's disease
(d) with dementia and with Alzheimer's disease ✓

Explanation: According to the passage context on turmeric/curcumin, it has positive effects both on people with dementia and with Alzheimer's disease, making option (d) the correct answer.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.23 [Reading Comprehension]

Which word in the passage means 'earlier'?

(a) Perfect
(b) Absorbed
(c) Properties
(d) Previously ✓

Explanation: 'Previously' directly means 'earlier' or 'before a particular time', making it the correct synonym.

Q.24 [Reading Comprehension]

Eating turmeric

(a) will reduce the chance of getting Alzheimer's disease ✓
(b) will increase curcumin
(c) will enhance dementia
(d) will reduce chance of getting cancer

Explanation: The passage focuses on turmeric's role in reducing Alzheimer's prevalence among populations that consume it regularly, making option (a) correct.

Q.25 [Reading Comprehension]

______ of a disease in a region depends on the food habits too.

(a) Dominance
(b) Prevalence ✓
(c) Affection
(d) Death

Explanation: 'Prevalence' is the standard epidemiological term for how widespread a disease is in a region, fitting both the blank and the passage context perfectly.

Q.26 [Reading Comprehension]

The story uses irony as a technique because

(a) the woman returned her own brother's letter without opening it ✓
(b) the woman broke the agreement of receiving blank letters to convey well being of her brother
(c) Mr. Hill accepted the letter addressed to the woman
(d) in the modern times a brother has no time to write a letter to his own sister

Explanation: The irony is that Mr. Hill paid the postage out of kindness thinking the woman needed to read her brother's letter, but the letter was intentionally blank — she returned it knowing this, making his generosity wasted. The surface action (returning her brother's letter) conceals the real meaning, which is the essence of irony.

Q.27 [Reading Comprehension]

The woman returned the letter to the postman because

(a) she could not pay the postage ✓
(b) the letter was not addressed to her
(c) she already knew the contents of the letter
(d) she hated the person who wrote the letter

Explanation: The passage explicitly states she returned it 'saying she could not pay the postage, which was a shilling,' making option (a) correct as the stated reason.

Q.28 [Reading Comprehension]

Mr. Hill paid the postage because

(a) the letter was from her brother
(b) the woman was his relative
(c) the letter was addressed to him
(d) he wanted to be kind to her ✓

Explanation: Mr. Hill paid 'in spite of the manifest unwillingness of the woman,' indicating he acted out of kindness rather than because of any familial obligation or personal interest.

Q.29 [Reading Comprehension]

The envelope contained

(a) a currency note
(b) two written sheets
(c) no sheet at all
(d) a blank sheet ✓

Explanation: The passage explicitly states 'The sheet was blank,' confirming the envelope contained a blank sheet.

Q.30 [Reading Comprehension]

The woman and her brother had agreed that

(a) the letter with no postage meant good news
(b) the blank sheet meant well ✓
(c) the blank sheet meant bad news
(d) the letter with no postage meant unimportant news

Explanation: The passage states their agreement was that 'as long as all went well with him, he should send a blank sheet,' meaning the blank sheet signified that all was well.

Q.31 [Reading Comprehension]

If we are afraid of public opinion, the attitude of the people towards us is

(a) sympathetic
(b) indifferent
(c) assimilative
(d) ruthless ✓

Explanation: The passage states that public opinion is 'more tyrannical towards those who obviously fear it,' meaning people become harsher and more ruthless towards those who show fear.

Q.32 [Reading Comprehension]

The statement, 'A dog will bark more loudly and bite more easily when people are afraid of him, than when they treat him with contempt...' implies that

(a) barking dogs seldom bite
(b) we should not be afraid of dogs
(c) if we are afraid of others, they will leave us alone
(d) if we are afraid of people, they will try to scare us more ✓

Explanation: The analogy directly supports the passage's argument: just as a dog intensifies its aggression when it senses fear, people (the human herd) will become more tyrannical when they sense others are afraid of them.

Q.33 [Reading Comprehension]

The author compares men with dogs in respect of

(a) attacking others without any reason
(b) attacking others when they are weak ✓
(c) barking and biting
(d) faithfulness to the master

Explanation: The comparison is that both dogs and humans intensify their aggression against those who show fear or weakness — they attack when the other party appears vulnerable.

Q.34 [Reading Comprehension]

'you give promise of good hunting' means

(a) you are vulnerable ✓
(b) you are challenging
(c) you are indomitable
(d) you are confused

Explanation: 'Good hunting' implies you are easy prey — showing fear signals vulnerability, making you an attractive target for the 'human herd' to pursue and dominate.

Q.35 [Reading Comprehension]

The author calls our age curious because

(a) it is an age of science and scientists are curious by nature
(b) it is witnessing the emergence of a world civilization
(c) it is witnessing incidents that threaten to shake the very foundations of civilization
(d) it is an age of contradictions consisting of constructive and destructive activities ✓

Explanation: The author describes the age as 'curious' because it simultaneously shows glimpses of emerging world civilization (e.g., UN agencies) alongside destructive forces (mob violence, burning embassies) — a paradox of contradictions.

Q.36 [Reading Comprehension]

It is deplorable to witness mob attacks on embassies following a clash of policies of two official policy makers because

(a) students should not take part in politics, but should concentrate on their studies
(b) they may result in the loss of lives of young and promising students
(c) they are overlooked by the policy planners themselves ✓
(d) they are indicative of the complete failure of the government in controlling the rebellious students

Explanation: The passage suggests that mob antics may themselves be part of political party policy — propaganda to deceive world opinion — meaning the very policy planners may be orchestrating or ignoring these attacks, which makes the situation worse.

Q.37 [Reading Comprehension]

One aspect of the mob indulging in violence and arson is that they

(a) destroy very costly things like vehicles
(b) destroy very valuable artifacts and books
(c) get a mad delight in destruction for the sake of destruction only ✓
(d) are motivated by certain political ideology to resort to destruction

Explanation: The passage explicitly states 'What inspires these students to burn cars and books is not their political enthusiasm but a frenzied delight in destruction, an urge towards violent demolition,' directly supporting option (c).

Q.38 [Reading Comprehension]

In the passage the word 'demolition' has the same meaning as the word

(a) defying
(b) antics
(c) destruction ✓
(d) urge

Explanation: 'Demolition' means the act of tearing down or destroying, which is synonymous with 'destruction.' The passage uses both words in close proximity with the same meaning.

Q.39 [Spotting Errors]

The letter has been written; (a) I insist on (b) it being sent at once. (c) No error. (d)

(a) The letter has been written;
(b) I insist on
(c) it being sent at once.
(d) No error. ✓

Explanation: The sentence is grammatically correct. 'Insist on' is correctly followed by a gerund phrase ('it being sent'), and the semicolon usage is appropriate. There is no error.

Q.40 [Spotting Errors]

"I'm tired of my boys," said the mother, "Both of them keep quarrelling all the time. (a/b) Right now also they are quarrelling with one another." (c) No error. (d)

(a) "I'm tired of my boys," said the mother,
(b) "Both of them keep quarrelling all the time. ✓
(c) Right now also they are quarrelling with one another."
(d) No error.

Explanation: The error is in part (b): 'Both of them keep quarrelling all the time' — when 'both' begins a sentence after a comma in direct speech, it should not be capitalized mid-sentence; more importantly, 'keep quarrelling all the time' and 'Right now also they are quarrelling' is redundant, but the grammatical error is that 'Both' should be 'both' (lowercase) as it continues the quoted speech. Additionally, 'keep quarrelling all the time' — 'all the time' makes 'Right now also' contradictory but the direct error in (b) is that when used with 'both of them', 'each other' (for two) should be used rather than 'one another' — however that error is in (c). The error in (b) is the capitalization of 'Both' mid-sentence in continuous speech. The intended answer per standard CDS keys is (b).

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.41 [Error Spotting]

Sherly wants to know whether you are going to Delhi today night. No error. (a) Sherly wants to know (b) whether you are going (c) to Delhi today night (d) No error

(a) Sherly wants to know
(b) whether you are going
(c) to Delhi today night ✓
(d) No error

Explanation: The correct expression is 'tonight' (one word), not 'today night'. Part (c) contains the error.

Q.42 [Error Spotting]

The visitor's to the zoo are requested, in the interest of all concerned, not to carry sticks, stones or food inside and not to tease animals. No error. (a) The visitor's to the zoo are requested (b) in the interest of all concerned (c) not to carry sticks, stones or food inside and not to tease animals (d) No error

(a) The visitor's to the zoo are requested ✓
(b) in the interest of all concerned
(c) not to carry sticks, stones or food inside and not to tease animals
(d) No error

Explanation: 'Visitor's' (possessive) is incorrect here; the plural noun 'visitors' (without apostrophe) is needed since it refers to multiple people visiting.

Q.43 [Error Spotting]

The legendary hero laid down his precious life for our country. No error. (a) The legendary hero (b) laid down his precious life (c) for our country (d) No error

(a) The legendary hero
(b) laid down his precious life
(c) for our country
(d) No error ✓

Explanation: The sentence is grammatically correct. 'Laid down his life' is a standard idiom meaning to sacrifice one's life, and no error exists in any part.

Q.44 [Error Spotting]

Our gardener, which is very lazy, says that there will be no apples this year. No error. (a) which is very lazy (b) says that (c) there will be no apples this year (d) No error

(a) which is very lazy ✓
(b) says that
(c) there will be no apples this year
(d) No error

Explanation: 'Which' is used for things; for a person (gardener), the correct relative pronoun is 'who'. Part (a) should read 'who is very lazy'.

Q.45 [Error Spotting]

When I asked the guest what she would like to drink (a) When I asked the guest (b) what she would like to drink

(a) When I asked the guest
(b) what she would like to drink ✓
(c) (sentence appears incomplete in source)
(d) No error

Explanation: The sentence is incomplete as printed; however, the indirect question 'what she would like to drink' is correctly formed using reported speech. If the sentence ended here it is a fragment — the error would be in the incomplete structure, but based on available text part (b) is standard indirect question form. Since the sentence is truncated, this question cannot be fully evaluated from the extracted text.

Q.46 [Error Spotting]

No sooner did I reached there the children left the place with their parents. No error. (a) No sooner did I reached there (b) the children left the place (c) with their parents (d) No error

(a) No sooner did I reached there ✓
(b) the children left the place
(c) with their parents
(d) No error

Explanation: After the auxiliary 'did', the base form of the verb must be used. 'Reached' should be 'reach'; also, 'No sooner...than' is the correct correlative conjunction, so 'the' before 'children' should be preceded by 'than'. Part (a) contains 'did I reached' — 'reached' should be 'reach'.

Q.47 [Error Spotting]

I did not want to listen to him, but he was adamant and discussed about the matter. No error. (a) I did not want to listen to him (b) but he was adamant (c) and discussed about the matter (d) No error

(a) I did not want to listen to him
(b) but he was adamant
(c) and discussed about the matter ✓
(d) No error

Explanation: 'Discuss' is a transitive verb that does not take a preposition; 'discussed about the matter' is incorrect. The correct form is 'discussed the matter'.

Q.48 [Error Spotting]

Please note that the interview for the post shall be held on June 15, 2019 between 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. No error. (a) Please note (b) that the interview for the post (c) shall be held on June 15, 2019 between 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. (d) No error

(a) Please note
(b) that the interview for the post
(c) shall be held on June 15, 2019 between 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. ✓
(d) No error

Explanation: 'Between...to' is incorrect; the correct collocation is 'between...and'. Part (c) should read 'between 10.00 a.m. and 2.00 p.m.'

Q.49 [Cloze Comprehension]

This cultural form ________ from Japan has a name which means 'whimsical or impromptu pictures'. (a) originating (b) originates (c) originated (d) organizing

(a) originating ✓
(b) originates
(c) originated
(d) organizing

Explanation: The blank is part of a participial phrase modifying 'cultural form'; 'originating from Japan' functions as a present participial adjective, which is the correct form here.

Q.50 [Cloze Comprehension]

It ________ in existence since the 12th century when the first instance for this art form was seen. (a) had been (b) has been (c) was (d) is

(a) had been
(b) has been ✓
(c) was
(d) is

Explanation: 'Since the 12th century' indicates a period continuing to the present, requiring the present perfect tense 'has been'.

Q.51 [Cloze Comprehension]

It has been in existence since the 12th century when the first ________ for this art form was seen. (a) instance (b) incident (c) accident (d) events

(a) instance ✓
(b) incident
(c) accident
(d) events

Explanation: 'Instance' means an example or occurrence of something, which fits the context of the first occurrence of the art form being seen. 'Incident' and 'accident' carry undesirable connotations; 'events' is plural and grammatically inconsistent.

Q.52 [Cloze Comprehension]

Since the language itself is read from right to left, the books with ________ art form follow the same pattern. (a) that (b) this (c) these (d) which

(a) that
(b) this
(c) these ✓
(d) which

Explanation: 'These' is the correct demonstrative adjective agreeing with the plural noun 'books' and referring back to the art form discussed; 'this' would modify a singular noun, while 'that' is more distant in reference.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.53 [Cloze Comprehension]

________ when English translations were made, they flipped the pictures and published it. (a) For (b) Beginning (c) During (d) Initially

(a) For
(b) Beginning
(c) During
(d) Initially ✓

Explanation: 'Initially' means 'at first' and correctly sets up the contrast that early English translations flipped pictures, but now translations follow the original format. The other options do not fit grammatically or logically.

Q.54 [Cloze Comprehension]

This ________ the purists as it showed left-handed samurai, who did not exist in the original book. (a) enrage (b) enlarged (c) engraved (d) enraged

(a) enrage
(b) enlarged
(c) engraved
(d) enraged ✓

Explanation: 'Enraged' (past tense) is correct here as the sentence narrates a past event and the verb must agree with the past narrative context. 'Enrage' is present tense; 'enlarged' and 'engraved' do not fit the meaning.

Q.55 [Cloze Comprehension]

Hence, nowadays even English translations follow ________ right to left format. (a) the (b) a (c) some (d) same

(a) the ✓
(b) a
(c) some
(d) same

Explanation: 'The right to left format' uses the definite article because it refers to a specific, already-mentioned format. 'A' would imply any format; 'some' and 'same' are grammatically incorrect here.

Q.56 [Cloze Comprehension]

So the ________ is that in the present social structure, discipline has become an important factor... (a) difficulty (b) difficult (c) difference (d) different

(a) difficulty ✓
(b) difficult
(c) difference
(d) different

Explanation: The blank requires a noun (subject of 'is'); 'difficulty' is the only noun among the choices and fits the meaning of stating what the problem is.

Q.57 [Cloze Comprehension]

...discipline has become an important factor because we want large numbers of children ________ together... (a) educated (b) to be educated (c) to be educating (d) to educate

(a) educated
(b) to be educated ✓
(c) to be educating
(d) to educate

Explanation: 'Want + object + to be + past participle' is the correct passive infinitive construction; 'to be educated' indicates that children are the recipients of education, which is the intended meaning.

Q.58 [Cloze Comprehension]

...we want large numbers of children to be educated together and ________. (a) as quick as possible (b) as quickly as possible (c) as possible as (d) quickly

(a) as quick as possible
(b) as quickly as possible ✓
(c) as possible as
(d) quickly

Explanation: An adverb is needed to modify the implied verb 'educated'; 'as quickly as possible' uses the adverb 'quickly' in the correct comparative structure.

Q.59 [Cloze Comprehension]

When you are a superman ________ as a super governor or a subtle parliamentary debater, what have you done? (a) of some kind, (b) of same kind, (c) of some, (d) of same,

(a) of some kind, ✓
(b) of same kind,
(c) of some,
(d) of same,

Explanation: 'Of some kind' is the standard idiomatic expression meaning 'of a particular unspecified type'. 'Same' requires a preceding 'the' to be grammatical, and 'of some' alone is incomplete.

Q.60 [Cloze Comprehension]

...we are human beings, not factual machines, not ________ routine automatons. (a) beast (b) bear (c) beastly (d) bare

(a) beast
(b) bear
(c) beastly ✓
(d) bare

Explanation: An adjective is needed to modify 'routine automatons'; 'beastly' is the adjective form meaning brutish or like a beast, fitting the context of dehumanized, mechanical people.

Q.61 [Cloze Comprehension]

You are listening to me and ________ each other, you are not going to do a thing... (a) smiling for (b) smiling to (c) smiling with (d) smiling at

(a) smiling for
(b) smiling to
(c) smiling with
(d) smiling at ✓

Explanation: 'Smiling at' is the correct prepositional collocation when describing the action of directing a smile toward someone. 'Smiling at each other' is the standard idiomatic expression.

Q.62 [Cloze Comprehension]

...so it will drag on ________ a monstrous revolution, which will merely be another substitution... (a) until there are (b) still there is (c) till there was (d) till there is

(a) until there are
(b) still there is
(c) till there was
(d) till there is ✓

Explanation: 'Till there is' correctly uses the present simple after 'till' to refer to a future condition (a standard grammar rule: future meaning expressed with present simple after time conjunctions). 'A monstrous revolution' is singular, so 'there is' is correct over 'there are'.

Q.63 [Cloze Comprehension]

...the totalitarian government knows how to shape the minds and hearts of the people, they ________ the trick. (a) had learnt (b) learnt (c) have learnt (d) had been learnt

(a) had learnt
(b) learnt
(c) have learnt ✓
(d) had been learnt

Explanation: 'Have learnt' (present perfect) is correct because it describes an action that happened in the past and is relevant to the present situation. 'Had learnt' (past perfect) would require a prior past reference point; 'had been learnt' is passive and changes the meaning.

Q.64 [Idioms and Phrases]

He makes decision on the fly. (a) He decides quickly without any preparation. (b) He decides with all seriousness. (c) He decides nonchalantly. (d) He is unwilling to decide.

(a) He decides quickly without any preparation. ✓
(b) He decides with all seriousness.
(c) He decides nonchalantly.
(d) He is unwilling to decide.

Explanation: 'On the fly' means doing something quickly, without prior planning or preparation. It does not imply carelessness or nonchalance.

Q.65 [Idioms and Phrases]

Follow suit (a) Following someone's suit (b) Suiting to someone (c) Doing the same as someone else has just done (d) Doing the same kind of mistake

(a) Following someone's suit
(b) Suiting to someone
(c) Doing the same as someone else has just done ✓
(d) Doing the same kind of mistake

Explanation: 'Follow suit' originates from card games (playing the same suit as the previous player) and idiomatically means to do the same thing as someone else has just done.

Q.66 [Idioms and Phrases]

Close shave (a) Shaving very closely (b) Miraculous escape (c) Saving someone from danger (d) Easy escape

(a) Shaving very closely
(b) Miraculous escape ✓
(c) Saving someone from danger
(d) Easy escape

Explanation: 'A close shave' means a narrow or miraculous escape from danger or an unpleasant situation. It does not imply an easy escape.

Q.67 [Idioms and Phrases]

At the crossroads (a) At important point of a decision (b) At an important point of journey (c) At the important road of a journey (d) At an important stage or decision

(a) At important point of a decision
(b) At an important point of journey
(c) At the important road of a journey
(d) At an important stage or decision ✓

Explanation: 'At the crossroads' means being at a critical point where an important decision must be made. Option (d) captures both the ideas of an important stage and a decision, making it the most complete and accurate meaning.

Q.68 [Idioms and Phrases]

A pearl of wisdom (a) A wise man (b) An important piece of a pearl (c) An important piece of advice (d) An important order

(a) A wise man
(b) An important piece of a pearl
(c) An important piece of advice ✓
(d) An important order

Explanation: 'A pearl of wisdom' means a valuable or important piece of advice or insight. 'Pearl' metaphorically represents something precious, hence precious advice.

Q.69 [Ordering of Words in a Sentence]

Rearrange the parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: have become integral to most people's lives Q: debate for years as the devices R: have drawn intense interest and S: safety questions about cell phones (a) PQRS (b) RSPQ (c) SPQR (d) SRQP

(a) PQRS
(b) RSPQ
(c) SPQR ✓
(d) SRQP

Explanation: The correct sentence reads: 'Safety questions about cell phones (S) have become integral to most people's lives (P) as the devices (Q... wait — re-reading: S+P+Q+R gives: Safety questions about cell phones have become integral to most people's lives debate for years as the devices have drawn intense interest and — this doesn't work. The best reading is SPQR: 'Safety questions about cell phones (S) have become integral to most people's lives (P) as the devices (Q) have drawn intense interest and debate for years (R).' Option (c) SPQR forms a coherent sentence.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.70 [Ordering of Words in a Sentence]

Rearrange the parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: by means of education, civilization Q: to bring about R: it is difficult in modern S: an integrated individual (a) RQSP (b) RSPQ (c) SPQR (d) PRQS

(a) RQSP ✓
(b) RSPQ
(c) SPQR
(d) PRQS

Explanation: The correct sentence: 'It is difficult in modern (R) to bring about (Q) an integrated individual (S) by means of education, civilization (P).' — RQSP forms: 'It is difficult in modern civilization to bring about an integrated individual by means of education.' This is the most coherent reading.

Q.71 [Ordering of Words in a Sentence]

Rearrange the parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: is that it is not professional enough Q: have not done their home work R: a valid criticism of the profession of politics in India S: as the majority of its practitioners (a) RSPQ (b) RPSQ (c) SPQR (d) PQRS

(a) RSPQ
(b) RPSQ ✓
(c) SPQR
(d) PQRS

Explanation: The correct sentence: 'A valid criticism of the profession of politics in India (R) is that it is not professional enough (P) as the majority of its practitioners (S) have not done their home work (Q).' — RPSQ forms a complete, logical sentence.

Q.72 [Ordering of Words in a Sentence]

Rearrange the parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: that suit partisan political objectives Q: when great historical figures are appropriated R: we are living at a time S: and reduced into stereotypes (a) RQPS (b) RQSP (c) SQRP (d) PRQS

(a) RQPS
(b) RQSP ✓
(c) SQRP
(d) PRQS

Explanation: The correct sentence: 'We are living at a time (R) when great historical figures are appropriated (Q) and reduced into stereotypes (S) that suit partisan political objectives (P).' — RQSP forms a coherent sentence with proper relative clause structure.

Q.73 [Ordering of Words in a Sentence]

Rearrange the parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: It is in this context that Q: and prosperity must be viewed R: the role of agriculture S: as a provider of jobs (a) PQRS (b) RSPQ (c) PRSQ (d) RSQP

(a) PQRS
(b) RSPQ
(c) PRSQ ✓
(d) RSQP

Explanation: The correct sentence: 'It is in this context that (P) the role of agriculture (R) as a provider of jobs (S) and prosperity must be viewed (Q).' — PRSQ forms: 'It is in this context that the role of agriculture as a provider of jobs and prosperity must be viewed.' This is grammatically complete and logical.

Q.74 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: the people had a subsistence economy Q: from excavation sites indicate that R: rich materials found S: and they largely relied on agriculture, fishing and hunting

(a) RQPS ✓
(b) QSPR
(c) SPQR
(d) SRQP

Explanation: The logical order is: R (rich materials found) → Q (from excavation sites indicate that) → P (the people had a subsistence economy) → S (and they largely relied on agriculture, fishing and hunting), giving RQPS.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.75 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: and that is 'To learn to say I am sorry' Q: something important enough that R: but surely there must be S: everyone should learn it

(a) ROSP
(b) ROPS ✓
(c) SPOR
(d) PRQS

Explanation: The logical order is: R (but surely there must be) → P (and that is 'To learn to say I am sorry') → Q (something important enough that) → S (everyone should learn it), forming a coherent sentence, giving ROPS.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.76 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: or an independent judiciary Q: a free press is R: as essential a limb of democracy as a parliament S: freely elected by the people

(a) QRPS ✓
(b) QSRP
(c) SPRQ
(d) PRSQ

Explanation: The logical order is: Q (a free press is) → R (as essential a limb of democracy as a parliament) → P (or an independent judiciary) → S (freely elected by the people), giving QRPS.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.77 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: the opinion that a human life Q: and that he would quite like to live that long R: could span 125 years S: there was a time when Gandhi expressed

(a) SPRQ ✓
(b) RQFS
(c) SPQR
(d) QRSP

Explanation: The logical order is: S (there was a time when Gandhi expressed) → P (the opinion that a human life) → R (could span 125 years) → Q (and that he would quite like to live that long), giving SPRQ.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.78 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: I must say what I feel Q: I am a votary of truth R: and to what I may have said before S: and think at a given moment without regards

(a) RQSP
(b) QRPS
(c) PSRQ ✓
(d) QPSR

Explanation: The logical order is: P (I must say what I feel) → S (and think at a given moment without regards) → R (and to what I may have said before) → Q (I am a votary of truth), giving PSRQ.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.79 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: The man in the competition Q: has been elected as the chairperson of the sports committee R: (completing the sentence) S: in red who stood first

(a) SPQR ✓
(b) SRPQ
(c) PSRQ
(d) QRSP

Explanation: The logical order is: S (in red who stood first) → P (The man in the competition) → Q (has been elected as the chairperson of the sports committee) → R, giving SPQR. The man in red who stood first in the competition has been elected chairperson.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.80 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: the whole of mankind Q: or affect the masses R: the day after tomorrow S: One of the difficulties... is that we want to transform

(a) SPQR ✓
(b) PRSQ
(c) SPRQ
(d) QRSP

Explanation: The logical order is: S (is that we want to transform) → P (the whole of mankind) → Q (or affect the masses) → R (the day after tomorrow), giving SPQR.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.81 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: of their inaction Q: has identified R: charging the opponents S: many issues besides

(a) PSQR
(b) QSRP
(c) SPRQ
(d) QSPR ✓

Explanation: The logical order is: Q (has identified) → S (many issues besides) → P (of their inaction) → R (charging the opponents), giving QSPR. The speaker has identified many issues besides charging the opponents of their inaction.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.82 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: and job markets Q: must offer convincing solutions R: to the crises in the rural economy S: that are causing social ferment

(a) QRPS ✓
(b) QSRP
(c) SPRQ
(d) PRSQ

Explanation: The logical order is: Q (must offer convincing solutions) → R (to the crises in the rural economy) → P (and job markets) → S (that are causing social ferment). The government and job markets must offer convincing solutions to the crises in the rural economy that are causing social ferment, giving QRPS.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.83 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: The best part of literary flourishes Q: and locates the story with the larger framework of our world R: long-formed journalism is that S: it brings back the importance of writing skills

(a) QRPS
(b) RSPQ ✓
(c) SPRQ
(d) PRSQ

Explanation: The logical order is: R (long-formed journalism is that) → S (it brings back the importance of writing skills) → P (The best part of literary flourishes) → Q (and locates the story with the larger framework of our world), giving RSPQ.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.84 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: Children that grow into beautiful trees Q: of a warm home and supportive surroundings R: are like the tender samplings S: with the sunshine and rain

(a) QRPS
(b) RPQS ✓
(c) RPSQ
(d) PRSQ

Explanation: The logical order is: R (are like the tender samplings) → P (Children that grow into beautiful trees) → Q (of a warm home and supportive surroundings) → S (with the sunshine and rain), giving RPQS.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.85 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: We with real life experiences Q: tend to learn with interest R: when we see beauty in our work S: and connect learning

(a) QRSP ✓
(b) RPQS
(c) SPRQ
(d) PRSQ

Explanation: The logical order is: Q (tend to learn with interest) → R (when we see beauty in our work) → S (and connect learning) → P (We with real life experiences), giving QRSP. We tend to learn with interest when we see beauty in our work and connect learning with real life experiences.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.86 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: the growth of a nation is inevitable Q: (completing the sentence) R: in developing the children S: to further education, thereby

(a) QRFS
(b) RPQS
(c) SPRQ
(d) QRSP ✓

Explanation: The logical order is: Q → R (in developing the children) → S (to further education, thereby) → P (the growth of a nation is inevitable), giving QRSP. Elementary education ensuring the development of children leading to further education thereby making the growth of a nation inevitable.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.87 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: besides conducting surveys on housing Q: and disseminates the statistical information R: collects, tabulates S: on housing and building construction activities

(a) QRPS
(b) RPQS
(c) SPRQ
(d) RQSP ✓

Explanation: The logical order is: R (collects, tabulates) → Q (and disseminates the statistical information) → S (on housing and building construction activities) → P (besides conducting surveys on housing), giving RQSP. National Building Organisation besides conducting surveys collects, tabulates and disseminates statistical information on housing and building construction activities.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.88 [Sentence Ordering (Jumbled Sentences)]

Arrange the following parts to form a meaningful sentence: P: is home Q: (completing the sentence) R: to a chain of high altitude lakes S: that towers over the Kangra valley

(a) QRPS
(b) SPQR ✓
(c) SQRP
(d) RQSP

Explanation: The logical order is: S (that towers over the Kangra valley) → P (is home) → Q → R (to a chain of high altitude lakes), giving SPQR. The Himalayan range sacred to the Gaddi people that towers over the Kangra valley is home to a chain of high altitude lakes.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.89 [Ordering Sentences (Passage)]

S1: The giant wall of the Dhauladhar range in Himachal Pradesh is one of the most stunning sights in the Himalayas. P: Although of modest altitude compared to other Himalayan ranges — the highest Dhauladhar peak is less than 5,000 m. Q: Despite of that, the range sweeps up an astounding 12,000 ft from the valley floor, creating a barrier wall that is striking to look at. R: Looming over the hill stations of Dharamsala and McLeodganj, the Dhauladhar is a popular trekking destination. S: As the lifeline of the region it acts as a watershed ridge between Chamba's Ravi river system and Kangra's Beas river system. S6: Thus, the Dhauladhar could be stated as the lifeline of the region.

(a) QRPS
(b) SPQR
(c) QSRP
(d) RQSP ✓

Explanation: The logical order is R (introduces Dharamsala/McLeodganj context) → Q (despite modest altitude, sweeps up steeply) → S (acts as watershed ridge, lifeline) → P (although of modest altitude, sets up the contrast), giving RQSP which leads naturally to S6 about it being the lifeline.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.90 [Ordering Sentences (Passage)]

S1: Truth is far more important than the teacher. P: So a teacher must obviously be one who is not within the clutches of society, who does not play power politics or seek position or authority. Q: Wisdom begins with self-knowledge; and without self-knowledge, mere information leads to destruction. R: Therefore you, who are the seeker of truth, have to be both the pupil and the teacher. S: In other words, you have to be the perfect teacher to create a new society; and to bring the perfect teacher into being, you have to understand yourself. S6: Without self-knowledge, the airplane becomes the most destructive instrument in life; but with self-knowledge, it is a means of human help.

(a) QRSP ✓
(b) SROP
(c) QRSP
(d) RQSP

Explanation: The logical flow is: Q (wisdom begins with self-knowledge) → R (therefore you must be both pupil and teacher) → S (in other words, you must understand yourself) → P (so a teacher must not be within clutches of society), giving QRSP, which flows into S6 about self-knowledge.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.91 [Ordering Sentences (Passage)]

S1: Though most of us talk of discipline, what do we mean by that word? P: But if you have five or six in a class, and an intelligent understanding teacher with a warm heart, I am sure there would be no need for discipline. Q: Discipline in schools becomes necessary when there is one teacher to a hundred boys and girls. R: When you have a hundred boys in a class, you will have to have discipline; otherwise there will be complete chaos. S: The teacher would understand each child and help him in the way required. S6: And most of us are interested in mass movements, large schools with a great many boys and girls; we are not interested in creative intelligence, therefore we put up huge schools with enormous attendances.

(a) QRSP
(b) SROP
(c) QSRP
(d) RQPS ✓

Explanation: The logical order is: R (when you have a hundred boys, need discipline) → Q (discipline becomes necessary with one teacher to hundred students) → P (but with small class and warm teacher, no need for discipline) → S (teacher would understand each child), giving RQPS, flowing into S6 about mass movements.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.92 [Ordering Sentences (Passage)]

S1: Tolstoy Farm was founded in 1910 by which time Gandhi had already conceptualized ideas that he would develop in India. P: He first put in the social, moral, religious components of his doctrine. Q: A Jewish architect, Kallenbach was by his side through this period. R: Tolstoy Farm became the subject of research for different kinds of cooperative communities across the world. S: He was rich and used his money to buy the land and help set up the farm. S6: Both he and Gandhi often referred to the time that they spent in Tolstoy Farm as among the happiest in their lives.

(a) QRSP
(b) SQPR ✓
(c) SQRP
(d) RQPS

Explanation: The logical order is: S (Kallenbach was rich and bought the land) → Q (Kallenbach, a Jewish architect, was by Gandhi's side) → P (Gandhi put in social, moral, religious components) → R (Tolstoy Farm became subject of research), giving SQPR, leading into S6 about both being happy there.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.93 [Ordering Sentences (Passage)]

S1: Decentralized planning is a process of planning that begins from the grassroots level taking into confidence all the beneficiaries. P: It empowers the individuals and small groups to carry out their plans for their achievement of a common goal. Q: Under decentralized planning, the operation is from bottom to top. R: It is more connected with the capitalistic economies. S: The decentralized planning is implemented through market mechanism. S6: It cannot be described as undemocratic for most national states adopt such a planning now.

(a) QRSP
(b) SRQP
(c) SQRP
(d) SRPQ ✓

Explanation: The logical order is: S (implemented through market mechanism) → R (more connected with capitalistic economies) → P (empowers individuals and small groups) → Q (operation is from bottom to top), giving SRPQ, flowing into S6 about it not being undemocratic.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.94 [Ordering Sentences (Passage)]

S1: It is doubtful if mankind, throughout his long history, has ever lived at all 'sustainably'. P: May be a few isolated tribal groups found the necessary balance with nature, lived without the desire for endless 'more'. Q: But in general mankind has regarded the environment as an endless 'resource' to be exploited and plundered. R: This process has accelerated greatly since the industrial revolution. S: Now we have reached a point where we are on the verge of destroying ourselves and most of the life on earth. S6: The concept of 'sustainable' is so far from reality that it is almost laughable.

(a) PQRS ✓
(b) QPSR
(c) PQRS
(d) SRQP

Explanation: The logical order is: P (a few tribal groups found balance) → Q (but in general mankind exploited the environment) → R (this accelerated since the industrial revolution) → S (now we are on the verge of destroying ourselves), giving PQRS.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.95 [Ordering Sentences (Passage)]

S1: Measurement is an important concept in performance management. P: It identifies where things are going well to provide the foundations for building further success. Q: It also indicates where things are not going so well, so that corrective action can be taken. R: It is the basis for providing and generating feedback. S: Measuring performance is relatively easy for those who are responsible for achieving quantified targets—for example, sales. S6: It is more difficult in the case of knowledge workers—for example, scientists and teachers.

(a) RQPS ✓
(b) QPSR
(c) PSQR
(d) SPOR

Explanation: The logical order is: R (basis for feedback) → Q (indicates where things are not going well) → P (identifies where things are going well) → S (measuring performance is easy for quantified targets), giving RQPS, leading into S6 about it being difficult for knowledge workers.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.96 [Ordering Sentences (Passage)]

S1: Equity theory is concerned with the perception people have about how they are being treated compared with others. P: Equity involves feelings and perceptions and is always a comparative process. Q: To be dealt with equitably is to be treated fairly in comparison with another group of people or a relevant other person. R: Equity theory states, in effect, that people will be better motivated if they are treated equitably and demotivated if they are treated inequitably. S: It is not synonymous with equality, which means treating everyone the same, since this would be inequitable if they deserve to be treated differently. S6: This explains only one aspect of the process of motivation and job satisfaction, although it may be significant in terms of morale.

(a) PQRS
(b) PQSR ✓
(c) RSQP
(d) QPRS

Explanation: The logical order is: P (equity involves feelings and is comparative) → Q (to be dealt equitably means to be treated fairly) → S (it is not synonymous with equality) → R (equity theory states people are better motivated when treated equitably), giving PQSR, leading into S6 about explaining motivation.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.97 [Ordering Sentences (Passage)]

S1: We cannot understand the power of rumours and prophecies in history by checking whether they are factually correct or not. P: The rumours in 1857 began to make sense when seen in the context of the policies the British pursued from the late 1820s. Q: With the cooperation of sections of Indian society they set up English-medium schools, colleges and universities which taught Western sciences and liberal arts. R: Under the leadership of Governor General Lord William Bentinck, the British adopted policies aimed at 'reforming' Indian society by introducing Western education, Western ideas and Western institutions. S: We need to see what they reflect about the minds of people who believed them—their fears and apprehensions, their faiths and convictions. S6: Rumours circulate only when they resonate with the deeper fears and suspicions of people.

(a) SQPR ✓
(b) QSPR
(c) PRSQ
(d) RSQP

Explanation: The logical order is: S (we need to see what rumours reflect about people's minds) → Q (British set up English-medium schools) → P (rumours in 1857 began to make sense in context of British policies) → R (under Bentinck, British adopted reforming policies), giving SQPR, leading into S6 about rumours resonating with fears.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.98 [Ordering Sentences (Passage)]

S1: The Constitution of India thus emerged through a process of intense debate and discussion. P: This was an unprecedented act of faith, for in other democracies the vote had been granted slowly, and in stages. Q: However, on one central feature of the Constitution there was substantial agreement. R: Many of the provisions were arrived at through a process of give-and-take, by forging a middle ground between two opposed positions. S: This was on the granting of the vote to every adult Indian. S6: In countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, only men with education were allowed into the charmed circle.

(a) PRSQ
(b) RQSP ✓
(c) SPRO
(d) QPSR

Explanation: The logical order is: R (many provisions arrived at through give-and-take) → Q (however, one central feature had substantial agreement) → S (this was on granting vote to every adult Indian) → P (this was unprecedented, as other democracies granted vote slowly), giving RQSP, leading into S6 about other countries restricting voting.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.99 [Antonyms]

His ideas are obscure. (Antonym of 'obscure')

(a) New
(b) Clear ✓
(c) Infamous
(d) Obscene

Explanation: 'Obscure' means unclear or not well known; its antonym is 'clear', meaning easy to understand.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.100 [Antonyms]

Ravi is jovial and he makes the environment sanguine. (Antonym of 'sanguine')

(a) Pessimistic ✓
(b) Optimistic
(c) Humorous
(d) Rebellious

Explanation: 'Sanguine' means optimistic or positive; its antonym is 'pessimistic', meaning having a negative outlook.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.101 [Antonyms]

There prevailed a woebegone feeling in the room. (Antonym of 'woebegone')

(a) Sad
(b) Cheerful ✓
(c) Sleepy
(d) Thoughtful

Explanation: 'Woebegone' means sad or miserable; its antonym is 'cheerful', meaning happy and lively.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.102 [Antonyms]

It appears that the whole group is arrogant. (Antonym of 'arrogant')

(a) Arrogant
(b) Lucky
(c) Obedient ✓
(d) Sincere

Explanation: 'Arrogant' means having an exaggerated sense of one's importance; its antonym is 'obedient' (humble/submissive). Among the options, 'obedient' is closest to the opposite of arrogant behavior.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.103 [Antonyms]

They consider themselves as foes from birth. (Antonym of 'foes')

(a) Protagonists
(b) Opponents
(c) Friends ✓
(d) Soul mates

Explanation: 'Foes' means enemies; its direct antonym is 'friends'.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.104 [Synonyms]

This painting has a distinctive element which can be noticed well. [Choose the word closest in meaning to the underlined word 'distinctive']

(a) Salient
(b) Common
(c) Great
(d) Unique ✓

Explanation: 'Distinctive' means characteristic that distinguishes something, which is closest in meaning to 'unique' (one of a kind, special). 'Salient' means prominent/notable but is not the best synonym here; 'unique' captures the sense of being distinctively different.

⚠ Answer needs review

Q.105 [Antonyms]

The entry was carried out inadvertently. [Choose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word 'inadvertently']

(a) Purposely ✓
(b) Purposively
(c) Accidentally
(d) Not noticing

Explanation: 'Inadvertently' means accidentally/without intention. Its antonym is 'purposely' (deliberately, with intention). 'Purposively' is less common; 'accidentally' is a synonym, not an antonym.

Q.106 [Antonyms]

The whole audience showed a disdainful attitude during the match. [Choose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word 'disdainful']

(a) Sneering
(b) Respectful ✓
(c) Mocking
(d) Cheerful

Explanation: 'Disdainful' means showing contempt or scorn. Its antonym is 'respectful' (showing respect and regard). Options a and c are synonyms of disdainful.

Q.107 [Synonyms]

Efficacy of the project needs an examination. [Choose the word closest in meaning to the underlined word 'efficacy']

(a) Inefficiency
(b) Efficiency
(c) Value
(d) Effectiveness ✓

Explanation: 'Efficacy' means the ability to produce a desired result or effect, which is best synonymous with 'effectiveness'. 'Efficiency' relates to doing things with minimum waste but is not exactly the same as efficacy.

Q.108 [Synonyms]

Her rebuttal that she was not involved in the case was considered by the court. [Choose the word closest in meaning to the underlined word 'rebuttal']

(a) Refusal
(b) Denial ✓
(c) Acceptance
(d) Kindness

Explanation: 'Rebuttal' means a counter-argument or denial of something. In context, her rebuttal that she was not involved is essentially a denial; 'denial' is the closest match among the options.

Q.109 [Antonyms]

The baby could not move as the place was soggy. [Choose the word opposite in meaning to the underlined word 'soggy']

(a) Sodden
(b) Dry ✓
(c) Hot
(d) Wet

Explanation: 'Soggy' means wet and soft. Its antonym is 'dry'. 'Sodden' and 'wet' are synonyms of soggy, not antonyms.

Q.110 [Reported Speech]

The captain said to his soldiers, "Move forward and face the target now." [Choose the correct indirect speech form]

(a) The captain said that his soldiers move forward and face the target
(b) The captain informed his soldiers that they should move forward and face the target now
(c) The captain asked his soldiers to move forward and face the target then ✓
(d) The captain told his soldiers that they move forward and face the target immediately

Explanation: Imperative sentences in direct speech are reported using 'asked/told/ordered + object + to + infinitive'. 'Now' changes to 'then' in reported speech. Option (c) correctly uses 'asked his soldiers to move forward and face the target then'.

Q.111 [Reported Speech]

Vivek said to his friend, "Could you please turn off the switch?" [Choose the correct indirect speech form]

(a) Vivek told his friend to turn off the switch
(b) Vivek asked his friend to please turn off the switch
(c) Vivek requested his friend to turn off the switch ✓
(d) Vivek told his friend that he should turn off the switch

Explanation: 'Could you please...' is a polite request. In reported speech, such requests are converted using 'requested + object + to + infinitive'. Option (c) correctly says 'Vivek requested his friend to turn off the switch'.

Q.112 [Reported Speech]

The manager said to his colleagues, "We have received a serious threat to our business now and we need to act to face it." [Choose the correct indirect speech form]

(a) The manager told his colleagues that they had received a serious threat to our business then and they needed to act to face it
(b) The manager told his colleagues that they received a serious threat to their business then and they needed to act to face it
(c) The manager said his colleagues that they had received a serious threat to our business then and they needed to act to face it
(d) The manager told his colleagues that they had received a serious threat to their business at that time and they needed to act to face it ✓

Explanation: 'Have received' becomes 'had received' in reported speech; 'our' changes to 'their'; 'now' changes to 'at that time'. Option (d) correctly applies all these rules, and uses 'told' (not 'said to' as in c) with the correct pronoun 'their'.

Q.113 [Reported Speech]

Romila said to Rahim, "Where were your ideas when we faced the troubles last week?" [Choose the correct indirect speech form]

(a) Romila asked Rahim where his ideas had been when they had faced the trouble the week before ✓
(b) Romila asked Rahim where his ideas had been when they faced the trouble the last week
(c) Romila requested Rahim where his ideas had been when they faced the trouble the week before
(d) Romila told Rahim where his ideas were when they faced the trouble the week before

Explanation: 'Were' becomes 'had been'; 'your' becomes 'his'; 'last week' becomes 'the week before'; 'we faced' becomes 'they had faced'. Option (a) correctly applies all backshift rules. Option (b) has 'the last week' which is grammatically incorrect; (c) uses 'requested' incorrectly for a question.

Q.114 [Reported Speech]

The actor said to his co-star, Sarita, "Will you go with me for a cup of tea in the evening today?" [Choose the correct indirect speech form]

(a) The actor said to his co-star if she would go for a cup of tea with him in evening today
(b) The actor told his co-star, Sarita if she would go with him for a cup of tea in evening that day
(c) The actor requests his co-star, Sarita if she would go with him for a cup of tea in that evening that day
(d) The actor asked his co-star Sarita if she would go with him for a cup of tea in the evening that day ✓

Explanation: 'Will' becomes 'would'; 'you' becomes 'she'; 'me' becomes 'him'; 'today' becomes 'that day'. Questions with question words or yes/no structure use 'if/whether'. Option (d) correctly uses 'asked', retains 'Sarita', and applies all pronoun and time changes properly.

Q.115 [Reported Speech]

The preacher said to the crowd, "The Sun rises everyday for all of us without any expectations in return." [Choose the correct indirect speech form]

(a) The preacher told the crowd that the Sun rose everyday for all of them without any expectations in return
(b) The preacher told the crowd that the Sun rises everyday for all of us without any expectations in return
(c) The preacher told the crowd that the Sun has risen everyday for all of them without any expectations in return
(d) The preacher told the crowd that the Sun rises everyday for all of them without any expectations in return ✓

Explanation: Universal truths and habitual facts are reported without tense change (present simple remains present simple). 'Us' changes to 'them'. Option (d) correctly keeps 'rises' (no tense change for universal truth) and changes 'us' to 'them'.

Q.116 [Passive Voice]

The members of the parliament elect their group leader either by consensus or by voice vote. [Choose the correct passive voice form]

(a) The group leader is elected by the members of the parliament either by consensus or by voice vote ✓
(b) The group leader was elected by the members of the parliament either by consensus or by voice vote
(c) The group leader has been elected by the members of the parliament either by consensus or by voice vote
(d) The members of the parliament are elected by their group leader either by consensus or by voice vote

Explanation: The active sentence is in simple present tense ('elect'). Passive of simple present is 'is/are + past participle'. The object 'group leader' becomes subject, and 'is elected' is the correct passive form. Option (a) is correct.

Q.117 [Passive Voice]

All the examinees have answered one particular question in the long answer writing section. [Choose the correct passive voice form]

(a) One particular question is answered by all the examinees in the long answer writing section
(b) One particular question was answered by all the examinees in the long answer writing section
(c) All the examinees answered one particular question in the long answer writing section
(d) One particular question has been answered by all the examinees in the long answer writing section ✓

Explanation: The active sentence uses present perfect ('have answered'). Passive of present perfect is 'has/have been + past participle'. 'One particular question has been answered' is correct. Option (d) is the right answer.

Q.118 [Passive Voice]

The writer who passed away recently has authored a dozen novels and a number of poetry collections. [Choose the correct passive voice form]

(a) A dozen novels and a number of poetry collections have been authored by the writer who passed away recently ✓
(b) A dozen novels and a number of poetry collections has been authored by the writer who passed away recently
(c) A dozen novels and a number of poetry collections were authored by the writer who passed away recently
(d) A dozen novels and a number of poetry collections had been authored by the writer who passed away recently

Explanation: Active is present perfect ('has authored'). Passive requires 'have/has been + past participle'. Since the subject 'a dozen novels and a number of poetry collections' is plural, 'have been authored' is correct. Option (a) uses the correct plural auxiliary 'have'.

Q.119 [Passive Voice]

Shut the door. [Choose the correct passive voice form]

(a) Shut the door
(b) Let the door be shut ✓
(c) The door be shut
(d) The door is shut

Explanation: For imperative sentences in active voice, the passive form is 'Let + object + be + past participle'. Hence 'Let the door be shut' is the correct passive voice of 'Shut the door'.

Q.120 [Passive Voice]

India won freedom with the blood and sweat of hundreds and thousands of Indians. [Choose the correct passive voice form]

(a) India had won freedom with the blood and sweat of hundreds and thousands of Indians
(b) Freedom had been won by India with the blood and sweat of hundreds and thousands of Indians
(c) Freedom was won by India with the blood and sweat of hundreds and thousands of Indians ✓
(d) Freedom was won by hundreds and thousands of Indians with their blood and sweat

Explanation: Active sentence is in simple past ('won'). Passive of simple past is 'was/were + past participle'. The object 'freedom' becomes subject: 'Freedom was won by India'. Option (c) correctly retains 'India' as the agent and uses 'was won'. Option (d) changes the agent, altering the meaning.