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CDS II 2023 English with Solutions

Exam: CDS Year: 2023 (Session II) Questions: 110 Marks: 100 Negative Marking: 1/3

Q.1 [Parts of Speech]

The artist pranced around the stage singing enthusiastically. Identify the part of speech of the underlined/highlighted word 'enthusiastically'.

  • (a) Noun
  • (b) Adjective
  • (c) Adverb
  • (d) Verb
Explanation: 'Enthusiastically' modifies the verb 'singing' by describing how the artist sang, making it an adverb.

Q.2 [Parts of Speech]

Put the fork and knife in the cutlery box. Identify the part of speech of the word 'in'.

  • (a) Preposition
  • (b) Verb
  • (c) Verb
  • (d) Determiner
Explanation: 'In' shows the relationship between 'the cutlery box' and the action 'put', functioning as a preposition.

Q.3 [Parts of Speech]

She came slowly up to the main door. Identify the part of speech of the word 'slowly'.

  • (a) Adjective
  • (b) Adverb
  • (c) Verb
  • (d) Pronoun
Explanation: 'Slowly' modifies the verb 'came' by describing the manner of the action, so it is an adverb.

Q.4 [Parts of Speech]

Oh no! I am getting late for the function. Identify the part of speech of 'Oh no!'.

  • (a) Preposition
  • (b) Article
  • (c) Noun
  • (d) Interjection
Explanation: 'Oh no!' is an exclamation expressing emotion and is not grammatically connected to the rest of the sentence, making it an interjection.

Q.5 [Parts of Speech]

They are all going to attend the function. Identify the part of speech of 'They'.

  • (a) Noun
  • (b) Adverb
  • (c) Pronoun
  • (d) Conjunction
Explanation: 'They' is a third-person plural pronoun used in place of a noun (the people referred to).

Q.6 [Parts of Speech]

The sun shone through the dull grey clouds. Identify the part of speech of 'grey'.

  • (a) Noun
  • (b) Adverb
  • (c) Conjunction
  • (d) Adjective
Explanation: 'Grey' describes the noun 'clouds', so it functions as an adjective.

Q.7 [Parts of Speech]

The Principal is presiding over the meeting. Identify the part of speech of 'over'.

  • (a) Verb
  • (b) Noun
  • (c) Adjective
  • (d) Preposition
Explanation: 'Over' connects 'presiding' with 'the meeting', indicating a relationship, and functions as a preposition in the phrasal verb 'preside over'.

Q.8 [Parts of Speech]

Cash machines permit people to withdraw money at any time. Identify the part of speech of 'permit'.

  • (a) Verb
  • (b) Noun
  • (c) Pronoun
  • (d) Adverb
Explanation: 'Permit' is the main verb of the sentence, expressing the action that cash machines do (allow people to withdraw money).

Q.9 [Parts of Speech]

The novel is loosely based on his childhood in England. Identify the part of speech of 'loosely'.

  • (a) Verb
  • (b) Adverb
  • (c) Noun
  • (d) Adjective
Explanation: 'Loosely' modifies the adjective/participle 'based', describing the manner in which the novel is based on his childhood, so it is an adverb.

Q.10 [Parts of Speech]

Since children have so much homework to do their playtime is very limited. Identify the part of speech of 'Since'.

  • (a) Verb
  • (b) Adjective
  • (c) Pronoun
  • (d) Noun
Explanation: In this context 'Since' is used as a subordinating conjunction introducing a reason clause. However, among the given options the intended answer is likely that 'Since' functions as a conjunction; but conjunction is not listed. The closest available option as intended by the paper is (b) — but re-examining: none of the options say conjunction. 'Since' here is a subordinating conjunction but the options are Verb, Adjective, Pronoun, Noun. This appears to be a poorly framed question; the best available answer by elimination is (a) as verb is least wrong, but actually 'since' as a subordinating conjunction is closest to none. Given standard exam keys for CDS, the intended answer is likely (d) Noun referring to 'homework' being the focus — but more likely the question asks about a different word. Re-reading: the question likely asks about 'much' or 'so' — if the highlighted word is 'so', it is an adverb, not listed. If 'homework' is highlighted, it is a Noun (d). The most probable intended highlighted word is 'homework', making the answer (d) Noun.
⚠ Answer needs review

Q.11 [Fill in the Blanks]

Another version of the play based on the text was re-enacted successfully after the prosecution and eventual _____ of enacting the play in public theatre by the Government.

  • (a) prescription
  • (b) proscription
  • (c) proscribing
  • (d) screening
Explanation: 'Proscription' means an official ban or prohibition, which fits the context of the Government banning the enactment of the play in public theatre. 'Prescription' means a recommendation/instruction, which is the opposite meaning.

Q.12 [Fill in the Blanks]

Ravi remembers the year when there was a ________ flood.

  • (a) ravage
  • (b) devastating
  • (c) salubrious
  • (d) ameliorative
Explanation: 'Devastating' is an adjective meaning highly destructive, which correctly modifies the noun 'flood'. 'Ravage' is a verb/noun, 'salubrious' means health-giving, and 'ameliorative' means improving conditions — none of these fit.

Q.13 [Fill in the Blanks]

Davis is not sure whether he should ________ the forest guest house after dark.

  • (a) stay
  • (b) leave
  • (c) left
  • (d) leaves
Explanation: The modal verb 'should' must be followed by a base form verb. 'Leave' (base form) fits grammatically and contextually — Davis is uncertain about departing the guest house after dark. 'Left' and 'leaves' are incorrect verb forms after 'should'.

Q.14 [Fill in the Blanks]

They ________ as responsible people do during the difficult situation.

  • (a) behaves
  • (b) behaved
  • (c) behaving
  • (d) belief
Explanation: The subject 'They' is plural and the sentence describes a past action. 'Behaved' (simple past) agrees with the plural subject and the past tense context indicated by the comparison with how responsible people act.

Q.15 [Fill in the Blanks]

Criminal law has taken long ________ in facilitating access to justice for women by making various provisions.

  • (a) stand
  • (b) strides
  • (c) aside
  • (d) walk
Explanation: The idiom 'take strides' means to make significant progress. 'Long strides' perfectly fits the context of criminal law making significant progress in facilitating justice for women.

Q.16 [Fill in the Blanks]

Many laws have been made to deal with the problems of ________ against women.

  • (a) offences
  • (b) terror
  • (c) criminals
  • (d) difficulties
Explanation: 'Offences against women' is the standard legal/contextual phrase used when discussing laws made to protect women. The other options do not collocate as naturally or precisely with the phrase 'problems of _____ against women'.

Q.17 [Fill in the Blanks]

A person purchasing goods and services for commercial purposes will also not come under the ________ of this act.

  • (a) review
  • (b) view
  • (c) limits
  • (d) purview
Explanation: 'Purview' means the scope, extent, or range of something's influence or application, making 'come under the purview of this act' the correct legal phrase. The other options do not form standard legal collocations here.

Q.18 [Fill in the Blanks]

The emergence of a sovereign Indian nation was ________ on the notion of equality.

  • (a) promised
  • (b) looked
  • (c) premised
  • (d) depend
Explanation: 'Premised on' means based on or founded upon a particular idea or principle. The sentence states that the emergence of sovereign India was founded on the notion of equality, making 'premised' the correct choice.

Q.19 [Fill in the Blanks]

In Manipur, the most important piece of literary work that continues to ________ a sense of patriotism is 'Khongjom Parva'.

  • (a) instil
  • (b) install
  • (c) installs
  • (d) installed
Explanation: 'Instil' means to gradually establish a feeling or attitude in someone's mind. After 'to' (infinitive), the base form is needed, and 'instil a sense of patriotism' is the correct collocation. 'Install' is used for setting up equipment, not feelings.

Q.20 [Fill in the Blanks]

Women's autobiographies in the post-Independence period can be seen as ________ of their literary interest.

  • (a) subsistence
  • (b) insistence
  • (c) evidence
  • (d) dependence
Explanation: 'Evidence of their literary interest' means the autobiographies serve as proof or demonstration of women's engagement with literature. 'Subsistence', 'insistence', and 'dependence' do not fit the context logically.

Q.21 [Sentence Arrangement]

Arrange the following parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: one could not overlook the diminishing religiosity which Q: while plays with mythological content continued to be in vogue R: implication for the stage from the third decade of the twentieth century S: was gradually engulfing the society with its concomitant

  • (a) PQRS
  • (b) RQPS
  • (c) QPSR
  • (d) QRPS
Explanation: The sentence reads: 'while plays with mythological content continued to be in vogue (Q), one could not overlook the diminishing religiosity which (P), was gradually engulfing the society with its concomitant (S), implication for the stage from the third decade of the twentieth century (R).' QPSR forms a coherent passage about mythological plays versus growing secularism.

Q.22 [Sentence Arrangement]

Arrange the following parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: defends private property, emphasizes the virtues of competition Q: but also as an ideology in its own right, specifically one that R: and suggests that general prosperity will result from the pursuit of self-interest S: capitalism, for instance, is sometimes treated not merely as an economic system

  • (a) PQRS
  • (b) SRQP
  • (c) SQPR
  • (d) QRSP
Explanation: The logical order is: 'capitalism...is sometimes treated not merely as an economic system (S), but also as an ideology in its own right, specifically one that (Q), defends private property, emphasizes the virtues of competition (P), and suggests that general prosperity will result from the pursuit of self-interest (R).' SQPR is correct.

Q.23 [Sentence Arrangement]

Arrange the following parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: the equality provisions in the Constitution Q: nor are they confined to individuals as bearers of rights R: are not merely anti-discriminatory, based on the assumption of neutrality S: of the state towards all citizens

  • (a) PRSQ
  • (b) SQRP
  • (c) PRQS
  • (d) RQSP
Explanation: The sentence reads: 'The equality provisions in the Constitution (P) are not merely anti-discriminatory, based on the assumption of neutrality (R) of the state towards all citizens (S), nor are they confined to individuals as bearers of rights (Q).' PRSQ is the correct order.

Q.24 [Sentence Arrangement]

Arrange the following parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: learning-teaching process continued seamlessly Q: but it took it in its stride, pulling through enough R: innovations to ensure that the S: the pandemic year was a challenge for the university

  • (a) PQRS
  • (b) QPRS
  • (c) SQRP
  • (d) SPQR
Explanation: The sentence reads: 'The pandemic year was a challenge for the university (S), but it took it in its stride, pulling through enough (Q), innovations to ensure that the (R), learning-teaching process continued seamlessly (P).' SQRP is the correct order.

Q.25 [Sentence Arrangement]

Arrange the following parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: proscribed at the slightest hint of any seditious intent Q: the Dramatic Performances Act effectively marked the end of direct R: political activism what little had been demonstrated S: in the Bengali public theatre although some plays continued to be

  • (a) SPRQ
  • (b) SRQP
  • (c) QSPR
  • (d) QRSP
Explanation: The sentence reads: 'The Dramatic Performances Act effectively marked the end of direct (Q), political activism what little had been demonstrated (S... wait) — re-reading: Q=marked end of direct, R=political activism what little had been demonstrated, S=in the Bengali public theatre although some plays continued to be, P=proscribed at the slightest hint of any seditious intent. QRSP gives: The Dramatic Performances Act effectively marked the end of direct political activism what little had been demonstrated in the Bengali public theatre although some plays continued to be proscribed at the slightest hint of any seditious intent.' QRSP is grammatically coherent.
⚠ Answer needs review

Q.26 [Sentence Arrangement]

Arrange the following parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: moderation and compromise may mean that multiparty Q: a final problem is that the tendency towards R: are unable to offer clear ideological alternatives S: systems are so dominated by the political centre that they

  • (a) PQRS
  • (b) QPSR
  • (c) SPQR
  • (d) SQRP
Explanation: The sentence reads: 'A final problem is that the tendency towards (Q), moderation and compromise may mean that multiparty (P), systems are so dominated by the political centre that they (S), are unable to offer clear ideological alternatives (R).' QPSR is the correct order.

Q.27 [Sentence Arrangement]

Arrange the following parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: even after an offence has been committed Q: provisions for women still is dependent on the observations R: of the rules of procedure and evidence by the implementing agencies S: the criminal justice administration with all its favourable

  • (a) PSQR
  • (b) PQSR
  • (c) PRSQ
  • (d) SQRP
Explanation: The sentence reads: 'The criminal justice administration with all its favourable (S), provisions for women still is dependent on the observations (Q), of the rules of procedure and evidence by the implementing agencies (R), even after an offence has been committed (P).' SQRP forms a coherent and grammatically correct sentence.

Q.28 [Sentence Arrangement]

Arrange the following parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: the theatre management appreciated Q: similar contents to earn more revenues R: the popularity of such themes S: and emphasised staging plays with

  • (a) QRSP
  • (b) QRPS
  • (c) PQRS
  • (d) PSQR
Explanation: The sentence reads: 'The theatre management appreciated (P... wait) — re-reading: Q=the theatre management appreciated, R=the popularity of such themes, S=and emphasised staging plays with, P=similar contents to earn more revenues. QRSP: the theatre management appreciated the popularity of such themes and emphasised staging plays with similar contents to earn more revenues.' QRSP is correct.
⚠ Answer needs review

Q.29 [Sentence Arrangement]

Arrange the following parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: the supreme court in its majesty Q: Article 21 which deals with the right to life R: and magnanimity has expounded S: profoundly the semantic sweep of

  • (a) PSRQ
  • (b) SPQR
  • (c) SQRP
  • (d) PRSQ
Explanation: The sentence reads: 'The supreme court in its majesty (P) and magnanimity has expounded (R) profoundly the semantic sweep of (S) Article 21 which deals with the right to life (Q).' PRSQ is the correct order.

Q.30 [Sentence Arrangement]

Arrange the following parts P, Q, R, S to form a meaningful sentence: P: of unpopular policies or a discredited leader or government Q: one of these is that in focussing on the legitimacy of a political R: in which political authority is challenged as a result S: regime or system of rule tells us little about the circumstances

  • (a) PQRS
  • (b) SPQR
  • (c) QRPS
  • (d) QSRP
Explanation: The sentence reads: 'One of these is that in focussing on the legitimacy of a political (Q), regime or system of rule tells us little about the circumstances (S), in which political authority is challenged as a result (R), of unpopular policies or a discredited leader or government (P).' QSRP is the correct order.

Q.31 [Idioms and Phrases]

I always preferred to study Physics and Mathematics, now choosing Economics and Literature for further studies is another kettle of fish.

  • (a) Completely different matter
  • (b) Slightly different matter
  • (c) Completely difficult matter
  • (d) Doing things in a hurry
Explanation: 'Another kettle of fish' is an idiom meaning a completely different matter or situation, distinct from what was previously discussed.

Q.32 [Idioms and Phrases]

He criticised the participants for sitting on the fence and not contributing in finalising the report.

  • (a) Not following the rules
  • (b) Taking sides
  • (c) Not taking a decision
  • (d) Showing no respect to the Chair
Explanation: 'Sitting on the fence' means refusing to commit to a position or not making a decision, which fits the context of not contributing to finalising the report.

Q.33 [Idioms and Phrases]

He strained every nerve to understand the discourse on Philosophy.

  • (a) Tried hard
  • (b) Criticized
  • (c) Tried half-heartedly
  • (d) Raised questions
Explanation: 'Strained every nerve' means to make every possible effort or tried very hard to accomplish something.

Q.34 [Idioms and Phrases]

When it comes to using technology, she is completely at sea.

  • (a) Relaxed
  • (b) Confused
  • (c) Comfortable
  • (d) Prepared
Explanation: 'At sea' means confused or bewildered about something, unable to understand or cope with it.

Q.35 [Idioms and Phrases]

He is not a great scholar but he has the gift of the gab.

  • (a) Ability to write creatively
  • (b) Ability to read fluently
  • (c) Ability to convince
  • (d) Ability to speak confidently
Explanation: 'Gift of the gab' refers to the natural talent for speaking fluently, confidently, and persuasively. Option (d) 'Ability to speak confidently' is the closest match.

Q.36 [Idioms and Phrases]

This car belonged to Ravi, but recently it changed hands.

  • (a) Change of ownership
  • (b) Change of driver
  • (c) Change of mechanic
  • (d) Change of machinery
Explanation: 'Changed hands' is an idiom meaning a transfer of ownership from one person to another.

Q.37 [Idioms and Phrases]

He turned down the new assignment; he felt that he already had too many irons in the fire.

  • (a) Having involvement in illegal activities
  • (b) Having problems in completing tasks
  • (c) Having financial hurdles
  • (d) Having multiple tasks to complete
Explanation: 'Too many irons in the fire' means being involved in too many activities or projects at the same time, i.e., having multiple tasks to complete simultaneously.

Q.38 [Idioms and Phrases]

Something should be done to stop the brain drain of Indian scientists to other countries.

  • (a) Movement of professionals to another country for higher studies
  • (b) Movement of professionals to another country for better prospect
  • (c) Movement of professionals to another country for security
  • (d) Movement of professionals to another country for excursion
Explanation: 'Brain drain' refers to the emigration of highly trained or intelligent people from a particular country, typically for better pay or living conditions — i.e., better prospects.

Q.39 [Idioms and Phrases]

I just need to take rest and then I'll be as right as rain.

  • (a) To be in good mental and physical state
  • (b) To be physically active
  • (c) To be able to recall the past event
  • (d) To be able to work for long hours
Explanation: 'As right as rain' means to be in perfect health or good condition — both mentally and physically.

Q.40 [Idioms and Phrases]

It is all Greek to me.

  • (a) Something which I don't believe
  • (b) Something which I don't accept
  • (c) Something which I don't recognize
  • (d) Something which I don't understand
Explanation: 'It's all Greek to me' is an idiom meaning something is completely incomprehensible or impossible to understand.

Q.41 [Error Spotting]

You should read the newspaper regularly to be update with current affairs. No error (a) You should (b) read the newspaper regularly (c) to be update with current affairs (d) No error

  • (a) You should
  • (b) read the newspaper regularly
  • (c) to be update with current affairs
  • (d) No error
Explanation: 'to be update' is incorrect; the correct form is 'to be updated' (past participle used as adjective after 'be').

Q.42 [Error Spotting]

Our grandparents will be visited by us this weekend. No error (a) Our grandparents (b) will be visited (c) by us this weekend (d) No error

  • (a) Our grandparents
  • (b) will be visited
  • (c) by us this weekend
  • (d) No error
Explanation: The sentence is grammatically correct; 'will be visited by us this weekend' is a proper future passive construction.

Q.43 [Error Spotting]

However, the task is from done, particularly in ensuring equity in the distribution of quality education. No error (a) However, the task is from done (b) particularly in ensuring equity in (c) the distribution of quality education (d) No error

  • (a) However, the task is from done
  • (b) particularly in ensuring equity in
  • (c) the distribution of quality education
  • (d) No error
Explanation: 'is from done' is incorrect; the correct expression is 'is far from done', meaning not nearly finished.

Q.44 [Error Spotting]

Looking ahead, the university is expunging revenue generation opportunities to add more facilities for students and staff. No error (a) Looking ahead, the university (b) is expunging revenue generation (c) opportunities to add more facilities for students and staff (d) No error

  • (a) Looking ahead, the university
  • (b) is expunging revenue generation
  • (c) opportunities to add more facilities for students and staff
  • (d) No error
Explanation: 'expunging' means erasing/deleting, which is the wrong word here; the correct word should be 'exploring' (exploring revenue generation opportunities).

Q.45 [Error Spotting]

If you are interested in applying for the job, your application must received by Friday. No error (a) If you are interested in (b) applying for the job, your application (c) must received by Friday (d) No error

  • (a) If you are interested in
  • (b) applying for the job, your application
  • (c) must received by Friday
  • (d) No error
Explanation: 'must received' is incorrect; the correct passive form is 'must be received by Friday'.

Q.46 [Error Spotting]

Perhaps the biggest threat today is the impact of climate change on food systems and livelihoods of poor farmers. No error (a) Perhaps the biggest threat today (b) is the impact of climate change on food (c) systems and livelihoods of poor farmers (d) No error

  • (a) Perhaps the biggest threat today
  • (b) is the impact of climate change on food
  • (c) systems and livelihoods of poor farmers
  • (d) No error
Explanation: The sentence is grammatically correct with no error in any part.

Q.47 [Error Spotting]

In such a volatile global environment, it is heartening that India demonstrated admirable resilence and achieved robust recovery. No error (a) In such a volatile global environment (b) it is heartening that India (c) demonstrated admirable resilence and achieved robust recovery (d) No error

  • (a) In such a volatile global environment
  • (b) it is heartening that India
  • (c) demonstrated admirable resilence and achieved robust recovery
  • (d) No error
Explanation: 'resilence' is a spelling error; the correct spelling is 'resilience'. This constitutes an error in part (c).

Q.48 [Error Spotting]

Write an email to your friend expressing you regret for not being able to attend his birthday party. No error (a) Write an email to your friend (b) expressing you regret for not being able (c) to attend his birthday party (d) No error

  • (a) Write an email to your friend
  • (b) expressing you regret for not being able
  • (c) to attend his birthday party
  • (d) No error
Explanation: 'expressing you regret' is incorrect; it should be 'expressing your regret' — 'your' (possessive pronoun) is needed instead of 'you'.

Q.49 [Error Spotting]

Migrating elephant herds appear like West Bengal so much that they spend more time here than in the neighbouring states from where they cross over. No error (a) Migrating elephant herds appear like (b) West Bengal so much that they spend more (c) time here than in the neighbouring states from where they cross over (d) No error

  • (a) Migrating elephant herds appear like
  • (b) West Bengal so much that they spend more
  • (c) time here than in the neighbouring states from where they cross over
  • (d) No error
Explanation: 'appear like' is incorrect in this context; the correct phrase is 'appear to like' (the herds seem to like West Bengal), making part (a) erroneous.

Q.50 [Error Spotting]

Trucked neatly under the pile of clothes in the cupboard are the letters written by my mother to my father thirty years ago. No error (a) Trucked neatly under the pile of clothes (b) in the cupboard are the letters written (c) by my mother to my father thirty years ago (d) No error

  • (a) Trucked neatly under the pile of clothes
  • (b) in the cupboard are the letters written
  • (c) by my mother to my father thirty years ago
  • (d) No error
Explanation: 'Trucked neatly' is incorrect; the correct word is 'Tucked neatly' (tucked = placed/folded neatly). 'Trucked' is a spelling/word error.

Q.51 [Synonyms]

His views on the matter are utopian.

  • (a) realistic
  • (b) ideal
  • (c) practicable
  • (d) materialistic
Explanation: 'Utopian' means ideally perfect but impractical; 'ideal' is its closest synonym among the options.

Q.52 [Synonyms]

The shortage of funds will render nugatory the implementation of reform policies.

  • (a) explicit
  • (b) implicit
  • (c) ineffectual
  • (d) composite
Explanation: 'Nugatory' means of no value or ineffective; 'ineffectual' is the closest synonym.

Q.53 [Synonyms]

He first convulsed and then collapsed on the floor.

  • (a) shivered
  • (b) crouched
  • (c) shouted
  • (d) cried
Explanation: 'Convulsed' means to shake or tremble violently; 'shivered' is the nearest synonym among the options.

Q.54 [Synonyms]

We must not become complacent about the progress of the technology.

  • (a) discontented
  • (b) contented
  • (c) ignorant
  • (d) unsure
Explanation: 'Complacent' means self-satisfied or smugly pleased; 'contented' is its nearest synonym.

Q.55 [Synonyms]

The employees rejected the derisory pay offer.

  • (a) partial
  • (b) full
  • (c) derogatory
  • (d) inadequate
Explanation: 'Derisory' means ridiculously small or inadequate; 'inadequate' is the closest synonym in this context.

Q.56 [Synonyms]

They successfully defused the situation.

  • (a) mitigated
  • (b) mediated
  • (c) activated
  • (d) narrated
Explanation: 'Defused' means to make a situation less dangerous or tense; 'mitigated' (lessened the severity) is the closest synonym.

Q.57 [Synonyms]

The business floundered during the pandemic.

  • (a) faced many problems
  • (b) glided through
  • (c) floated through
  • (d) succeeded
Explanation: 'Floundered' means to struggle or have great difficulties; 'faced many problems' best captures this meaning.

Q.58 [Synonyms]

His speeches were models of brevity.

  • (a) lengthiness
  • (b) concision
  • (c) permanence
  • (d) exemplary
Explanation: 'Brevity' means concise and exact use of words; 'concision' is its direct synonym.

Q.59 [Synonyms]

He was too obtuse to understand the merits of the case.

  • (a) sensitive
  • (b) careful
  • (c) quick witted
  • (d) dull
Explanation: 'Obtuse' means slow to understand or mentally dull; 'dull' is its closest synonym.

Q.60 [Synonyms]

No one knew what transpired during the meeting.

  • (a) emerged
  • (b) exchanged
  • (c) was spoken
  • (d) merged
Explanation: 'Transpired' means to come to light or become known; 'emerged' is the closest synonym in this context.

Q.61 [Sentence Ordering]

S1: Mutations are random changes to the base sequence of genes. S6: Several mutations must occur in the same cell for it to become a tumour cell. P: This is why mutations in them can result in uncontrolled cell division and therefore tumour formation. Q: The few genes that can become cancer-causing after mutating are known as oncogenes. R: Most genes do not cause cancer if they mutate. S: In a normal cell oncogenes are involved in the control of cell cycle and cell division. Arrange P, Q, R, S in the correct order between S1 and S6.

  • (a) RQSP
  • (b) QRSP
  • (c) QSRP
  • (d) RPQS
Explanation: R states most genes don't cause cancer; Q introduces oncogenes as the exception; S describes what oncogenes do normally; P explains why mutations in them cause tumours. RQSP flows logically from general to specific.

Q.62 [Sentence Ordering]

S1: For most people, writing is an everyday occurrence. S6: Nearly all the document types that we use in our daily lives can be created in a word processor. P: A word processing software provides a general set of tools for entering, editing and formatting text. Q: Many application programs have been developed to make writing easier and smooth operation. R: One such most popular program is Word Processor. S: When computers have affected our life styles and work patterns, this activity is also not left out. Arrange P, Q, R, S in the correct order between S1 and S6.

  • (a) SRQP
  • (b) SPQR
  • (c) SQRP
  • (d) SPRQ
Explanation: S introduces computers affecting writing; R introduces the word processor as a popular program; Q mentions application programs for easier writing; P describes what word processing software provides. SRQP leads naturally to S6.
⚠ Answer needs review

Q.63 [Sentence Ordering]

S1: Social networking is the grouping of individuals into specific groups, like small rural communities or a neighbourhood subdivision etc. S6: Depending on the social networking website, many of these online community members share a common interest such as hobbies, religion, or politics. P: Although social networking is possible in person, especially in universities, high schools or in the workplace, it is most popular online. Q: When it comes to online social networking, websites are commonly used. R: These websites are known as social sites. S: Social networking websites function like an online community of Internet users. Arrange P, Q, R, S in the correct order between S1 and S6.

  • (a) PQRS
  • (b) PRQS
  • (c) PRSQ
  • (d) SPQR
Explanation: P establishes online popularity; Q introduces websites for online networking; R names these websites as social sites; S describes how they function as online communities, leading to S6. PQRS is the logical sequence.

Q.64 [Sentence Ordering]

S1: The principles of enterprise capitalism have been extended far beyond the USA through the impact of economic globalisation. S6: Such pressures have helped to shape what is sometimes called the 'new' political economy. P: Strong downward pressure has also been exerted on public spending, and particularly welfare budgets. Q: Moreover the need to promote product and labour flexibility has often led to trade union activity. R: Globalisation has promoted marketisation in a variety of ways. S: Governments reduce tax levels in the hope of attracting 'inward' investment. Arrange P, Q, R, S in the correct order between S1 and S6.

  • (a) PQSR
  • (b) SPQR
  • (c) RPQS
  • (d) RSPQ
Explanation: R introduces how globalisation promotes marketisation; S gives the first way (tax reduction); P adds another pressure (public spending); Q adds a further consequence (labour flexibility). RSPQ builds a coherent causal chain towards S6.

Q.65 [Sentence Ordering]

S1: Traditional songs and music form the identity of the tribal culture. S6: The forest areas and tribal settlements of Chhattisgarh began the revolt against the British at the very beginning of the freedom struggle, much before the urban areas. P: These tribal songs, on one hand, glorified their hero and on the other, inspired their fellow tribesman to participate in the freedom struggle. Q: The tribal area of Chhattisgarh always resonated with the sound of traditional tribal songs and music. R: They reflect tribals' natural spirit, unconditional love, and innate energy at every stage of their life. S: Initially, the tribal songs in their dialects, reverberated with the rebellion of their area, and then with the movement that was prevalent in the country. Arrange P, Q, R, S in the correct order between S1 and S6.

  • (a) QPSR
  • (b) QRSP
  • (c) SPRQ
  • (d) SPQR
Explanation: Q introduces Chhattisgarh's tribal songs; R describes what they reflect; S explains how songs evolved from local rebellion to national movement; P details their inspirational role. QRSP connects smoothly to S6.

Q.66 [Sentence Ordering]

S1: The social group wider than the family in the social structure of the Gond community is the clan. S6: It is only the male who automatically takes the patronymic on birth, preserves it till death and it is carried forward by his children. P: The members of the clan believed that they have been descended from a common ancestor. Q: The clan among the Gonds is a unilateral group consisted of family members of which bear the same clan-name. R: The clan being patrilineal — a man passes on his clan name to his children. S: The Gonds use the term 'Pari' to express their group. Arrange P, Q, R, S in the correct order between S1 and S6.

  • (a) RPQS
  • (b) SQPR
  • (c) SPQR
  • (d) RQSP
Explanation: S introduces the term 'Pari' for the group; Q defines the clan as a unilateral group with same clan-name; P states members share a common ancestor; R introduces the patrilineal aspect, leading into S6's detail about male lineage. SQPR is the logical order.

Q.67 [Sentence Ordering]

S1: The equatorial zone is generally an area of abundant precipitation (over 200 centimetres annually). S6: It is to be noted that a larger part of the precipitation in this region falls as heavy intermittent convective showers accompanied by thunder and lightning. P: The ascending air currents become intensified locally in the tropical storms that produce abundant precipitation in the Caribbean, the southwest Pacific Ocean, the Indian Ocean and the China Sea. Q: Over the land areas, most of the precipitation occurs from the thunderstorms that are very frequent and active in the equatorial regions. R: This high level of precipitation is due to the equatorial belt's high temperature, high humidity and highly unstable air. S: The trade winds from both the hemispheres converge and give rise to a general upward motion of air. Arrange P, Q, R, S in the correct order between S1 and S6.

  • (a) ROPS
  • (b) RSPQ
  • (c) SPQR
  • (d) PSRQ
Explanation: R explains the cause of high precipitation; S describes convergence of trade winds creating upward motion; P describes intensified ascending currents in tropical storms; Q mentions thunderstorms over land areas, leading into S6's note about convective showers. RSPQ is the logical sequence.

Q.68 [Sentence Ordering]

S1: The period branded as the era of the Industrial Revolution was essentially a period of transformation. S6: This wage was however, not enough to keep the worker properly clothed or fed and thus, the Industrial Revolution could not solve the problem of distribution. P: A definite polarisation of industrial society between two main classes — capitalists and workers — was visible. Q: It marked the beginning of the final phase of the broader transformation from feudalism to capitalism and capitalism made its presence felt all over the Europe. R: Actual production in the factories was done by the workers but the workers had very little and so for survival, they were required to continuously sell this labour power for wages. S: In the capitalist mode of production the factories and heavy machineries were owned and controlled by the capitalist class. Arrange P, Q, R, S in the correct order between S1 and S6.

  • (a) QRSP
  • (b) PRSQ
  • (c) QSPR
  • (d) PSQR
Explanation: Q introduces the shift from feudalism to capitalism; S describes capitalist ownership of factories; P notes the polarisation into two classes; R explains workers selling labour for wages, which leads directly to S6's point about insufficient wages. QSPR is the logical order.

Q.69 [Sentence Ordering]

S1: There exists a close relationship between meteorology and climatology. S6: First, the meteorological aspect of this discipline examines the process of gain and loss of heat energy by the air layer near the ground, keeping in view the fact that the basic principles apply at any place on the globe. Second, climatological aspect of the discipline examines the global pattern of thermal environment. P: In other words, it is concerned with the study of the characteristics and behaviour of the atmosphere. Q: The function of climatology is two-fold. R: Climatology, on the other hand, is concerned with the discussion of the component elements of climate as well as the factors which determine and control its distribution. S: Meteorology, the physics of the lower atmosphere, studies the individual phenomenon of the atmosphere. Arrange P, Q, R, S in the correct order between S1 and S6.

  • (a) SPRQ
  • (b) SQPR
  • (c) RSQP
  • (d) RSPQ
Explanation: S defines meteorology; P restates what it studies (characteristics and behaviour); R then contrasts with climatology; Q states climatology's function is two-fold, which sets up S6's enumeration. SPRQ is the logical order.

Q.70 [Sentence Ordering]

S1: Europe was going through a political, social, economic, and cultural transformation in the eighteenth century. S6: Great Britain emerged victorious in the contest for colonial supremacy in Europe and from that moment Britain concentrated more on her colonial possessions. P: Thereafter, the European continent had been free from bloody conflicts for about three decades. Q: This century saw far reaching changes which were to leave behind an enduring legacy. R: However, the Treaty of Paris could not bring peace to Europe forever. S: The Treaty of Paris (1763) brought an end to the Seven Years War. Arrange P, Q, R, S in the correct order between S1 and S6.

  • (a) QRSP
  • (b) QSPR
  • (c) SPQR
  • (d) SQPR
Explanation: Q introduces the century's far-reaching changes; S mentions the Treaty of Paris ending the Seven Years War; P notes the subsequent period of peace; R introduces the caveat that peace didn't last, leading to S6. QSPR is the logical sequence.

Q.71 [Antonyms]

American Independence was a great blow to the invincible image of Great Britain.

  • (a) vulnerable
  • (b) impregnable
  • (c) unbeatable
  • (d) insurmountable
Explanation: 'Invincible' means impossible to defeat or overcome. Its antonym is 'vulnerable', meaning susceptible to harm or defeat. Options b, c, and d are synonyms of invincible.
⚠ Answer needs review

Q.72 [Antonyms]

The first step in precipitation is condensation.

  • (a) constriction
  • (b) abridgement
  • (c) recapitulation
  • (d) evaporation
Explanation: 'Precipitation' refers to water falling from the atmosphere, while 'condensation' is the process of water vapour turning to liquid. The opposite process to condensation is 'evaporation', where liquid turns to vapour.

Q.73 [Antonyms]

This ushered in a large-scale social, economic, and political transformation.

  • (a) led
  • (b) conducted
  • (c) obstructed
  • (d) directed
Explanation: 'Ushered in' means to introduce or lead something in. Its antonym is 'obstructed', which means to block or hinder. Options a, b, and d are all synonyms of 'ushered'.
⚠ Answer needs review

Q.74 [Antonyms]

The writer obfuscated the real issue with small details.

  • (a) mystified
  • (b) obscured
  • (c) illuminated
  • (d) muddled
Explanation: 'Obfuscated' means to make something unclear or confusing. Its antonym is 'illuminated', meaning to make something clear or shed light on it. The other options are synonyms of obfuscated.
⚠ Answer needs review

Q.75 [Antonyms]

The horror and abomination of the system of Sati in India was condemned thoroughly.

  • (a) abhorrence
  • (b) termination
  • (c) adoration
  • (d) detestation
Explanation: 'Abomination' means something that causes disgust or hatred. Its antonym is 'adoration', which means deep love and respect. Options a and d are synonyms, and b is unrelated.
⚠ Answer needs review

Q.76 [Antonyms]

He was rebuked for his infraction of the discipline.

  • (a) transgression
  • (b) observance
  • (c) breach
  • (d) acceptance
Explanation: 'Infraction' means a violation or breach of a rule. Its antonym is 'observance', meaning compliance with or adherence to a rule. Options a and c are synonyms; d is partially related but less precise.
⚠ Answer needs review

Q.77 [Antonyms]

It is the general reaction of some people to denounce any new proposal by enthusiastic professionals.

  • (a) criticise
  • (b) censure
  • (c) comment
  • (d) appreciate
Explanation: 'Denounce' means to publicly declare as wrong or criticise strongly. Its antonym is 'appreciate', meaning to recognise the value or quality of something positively. Options a and b are synonyms; c is neutral.
⚠ Answer needs review

Q.78 [Antonyms]

The emperor as a centralised entity indisputably went beyond regional conflicts and fostered a certain mode of elite culture.

  • (a) cultivated
  • (b) endorsed
  • (c) suppressed
  • (d) incubated
Explanation: 'Fostered' means to encourage the development of something. Its antonym is 'suppressed', meaning to prevent the development or expression of something. Options a, b, and d are synonyms of fostered.
⚠ Answer needs review

Q.79 [Antonyms]

For the aspiring East India Company that looked at every opportunity for expansion and self-aggrandisement, the century had to be projected as one of instability.

  • (a) humility
  • (b) exaggeration
  • (c) upliftment
  • (d) elevation
Explanation: 'Self-aggrandisement' means the action of increasing one's own power, importance, or wealth. Its antonym is 'humility', meaning a modest view of one's own importance. Options b, c, d do not directly oppose self-aggrandisement.
⚠ Answer needs review

Q.80 [Antonyms]

There was a combination of agrarian colonising tendencies with the assertion of local landlord power that was able to assimilate pioneer peasants.

  • (a) insistence
  • (b) averment
  • (c) statement
  • (d) denial
Explanation: 'Assertion' means a confident statement or declaration of a fact. Its antonym is 'denial', meaning a refusal to acknowledge the truth of something. Options a, b, and c are synonyms or near-synonyms of assertion.
⚠ Answer needs review

Q.81 [Cloze Composition]

Objectives, ideology, programmes, leadership, and organisation are important ________ of social movements. They are interdependent,

  • (a) constituent
  • (b) components
  • (c) pieces
  • (d) ingredient
Explanation: 'Components' is the most appropriate word as it means the parts that make up a whole system, fitting the context of describing elements of social movements. 'Constituent' is a close synonym but 'components' is more standard in this context.

Q.82 [Cloze Composition]

They are interdependent, ________ each other.

  • (a) opposing
  • (b) effecting
  • (c) familiarising
  • (d) influencing
Explanation: The blank requires a word showing how the interdependent elements relate to each other. 'Influencing' best captures the mutual relationship between objectives, ideology, programmes, leadership, and organisation.

Q.83 [Cloze Composition]

The objectives of the movement change from ________ particular local issues to broad aims

  • (a) wide
  • (b) scanty
  • (c) narrow
  • (d) confine
Explanation: The sentence contrasts local/particular issues with broad aims, so 'narrow' is the appropriate antithetical word describing the limited local issues before they expand to broader aims.

Q.84 [Cloze Composition]

...to broad aims ________ social transformation.

  • (a) for
  • (b) by
  • (c) with
  • (d) and
Explanation: 'For' is the correct preposition here, meaning 'aimed at' or 'in pursuit of' social transformation, as in 'broad aims for social transformation'.

Q.85 [Cloze Composition]

Sometimes a movement which begins with broad objectives may in the process get ________ with one or two particular issues.

  • (a) turns into
  • (b) turn out
  • (c) bogged down
  • (d) bogged out
Explanation: 'Bogged down' is the correct phrasal verb meaning to become stuck or overwhelmed, which fits the context of a movement getting stuck on particular issues instead of pursuing broad objectives.

Q.86 [Cloze Composition]

Ideology also ________ change. It provides direction for evolving strategies and programmes.

  • (a) went
  • (b) proceeds
  • (c) precedes
  • (d) undergoes
Explanation: 'Undergoes' means to experience or be subjected to something, so 'ideology also undergoes change' correctly expresses that ideology itself changes over time.

Q.87 [Cloze Composition]

Various strategies and programmes are evolved to ________ the people.

  • (a) mobilised
  • (b) mobilise
  • (c) make
  • (d) matured
Explanation: 'Mobilise' (base form) is correct here as it follows 'to' (infinitive), meaning to organise or make ready for action. Option a is past tense and d is unrelated.

Q.88 [Cloze Composition]

They ________ the movement for a long period.

  • (a) threaten
  • (b) bluster
  • (c) blow
  • (d) sustain
Explanation: 'Sustain' means to keep something going over a period of time, which fits the context of strategies and programmes that sustain the movement for a long period.

Q.89 [Cloze Composition]

Leadership ________ initiates or emerges in the course of the growth of the movement

  • (a) where
  • (b) which
  • (c) how
  • (d) more
Explanation: 'Which' is the correct relative pronoun to introduce a relative clause modifying 'Leadership', as in 'Leadership which initiates or emerges in the course of the movement'.

Q.90 [Cloze Composition]

...plays a crucial role in ________ ideology and objectives, evolving strategies and programmes and maintaining the spirit of the participant.

  • (a) supersedes
  • (b) assumption
  • (c) articulating
  • (d) supposition
Explanation: 'Articulating' (gerund) is correct after 'in', meaning expressing or giving form to ideology and objectives. The other options are nouns that do not fit grammatically or contextually.

Q.111 [Reading Comprehension]

What is the writer's idea of 'truth' in the paragraph?

  • (a) Truth and divinity go hand-in-hand
  • (b) Truth can be told and avoided conveniently
  • (c) Truth is a compulsion sometimes
  • (d) Truth may be a choice of ancient Grecians
Explanation: The passage from Francis Bacon's 'Of Truth' conveys that truth can be embraced or set aside at will — people choose when to speak it and when to avoid it, making it a matter of convenience rather than compulsion.

Q.112 [Reading Comprehension]

Why do men love lies?

  • (a) For advantage
  • (b) For the love of lying
  • (c) For the sake of lies
  • (d) A lie is imaginative
Explanation: Bacon argues that men love lies primarily for the advantage they gain from them — lies offer personal benefit, flattery, and self-serving narratives that pure truth does not.

Q.113 [Reading Comprehension]

Which metaphor is used in the passage to compare the value of truth and lies?

  • (a) Pearls versus diamonds
  • (b) Beauty versus plain unadorned truth
  • (c) Ease versus difficulty
  • (d) Deception versus sincerity
Explanation: The passage uses the contrast of beauty (adorned, embellished lies) versus plain, unadorned truth as a metaphor to show why people prefer lies — lies are likened to attractive ornamentation while truth stands bare.

Q.114 [Reading Comprehension]

What literary device does the author use when he says, "truth is naked"?

  • (a) symbolism
  • (b) personification
  • (c) allegory
  • (d) paradox
Explanation: Calling truth 'naked' attributes a human quality (nakedness) to an abstract concept, which is personification.

Q.115 [Reading Comprehension]

What would happen if truths were not mixed with lies?

  • (a) There would not be any pleasure in the pursuit of truth
  • (b) Truth would be clear and undiluted
  • (c) Lies would no longer be necessary
  • (d) The beauty of truth would shine forth
Explanation: Bacon suggests that the mingling of falsehood with truth is what creates the allure and pleasure of the pursuit; without that mixture, the chase after truth would lose its enjoyment and appeal.

Q.116 [Reading Comprehension]

According to the author, legal literacy

  • (a) needs to be interpreted and understood in consonance with elements of social custom and justice
  • (b) needs to be interpreted and understood in consonance with elements of economic and psychological factors and law
  • (c) needs to be interpreted and understood in terms of unjust existence of human being and law
  • (d) needs to be interpreted and understood in consonance with elements of environmental conservation and law
Explanation: The passage explicitly states that legal literacy must encompass both state law and the norms of cultural/religious communities — i.e., social custom — and ultimately serve justice, making option (a) the correct match.

Q.117 [Reading Comprehension]

As a citizen one is supposed to

  • (a) make a balance between the legal aspects and cultural existence
  • (b) give a priority to our cultural existence
  • (c) give a priority to constitutional provisions
  • (d) know that knowledge about constitutional regulation is an impediment to cultural existence
Explanation: The passage says citizens exist in spheres of political obligation and cultural/religious community membership that often coexist peacefully but sometimes collide, requiring one to balance both — supporting option (a).

Q.118 [Reading Comprehension]

The above passage deals in

  • (a) Law and Justice
  • (b) Legal Literacy
  • (c) Literacy and Education
  • (d) Constitutional Law
Explanation: The central theme of the passage is legal literacy — understanding both state law and community norms — as the author explicitly discusses pluralising legal literacy and its role for citizens.

Q.119 [Reading Comprehension]

According to the writer 'diverse combinatory prowess' means

  • (a) A process of evolving a legal and constitutional system of cohesive elements
  • (b) A provision of evolving a law of customary practices by avoiding constitutional provisions
  • (c) A provision of evolving constitutional laws by neglecting customary practices
  • (d) A process of combining contrasting elements into a competent legal mechanism
Explanation: The phrase describes how both constitution and custom — contrasting sources of law — combine their strengths into a capable (prowess) legal mechanism, which matches option (d).

Q.120 [Reading Comprehension]

Which among the following is closest in meaning to the word 'resistance'?

  • (a) conforming
  • (b) promotion
  • (c) defiance
  • (d) liberating
Explanation: 'Resistance' means opposing or standing against authority/domination; 'defiance' is the closest synonym among the options, meaning open refusal to obey.