Minimum number who can speak Hindi only (guaranteed count): In a group of 1000 people, 750 can speak Hindi and 400 can speak English. What is the minimum number who must be Hindi-only speakers?

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 600

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Without explicit overlap, exact counts of language-only groups cannot be uniquely determined. However, a minimum guaranteed number for Hindi-only can be found using inclusion-exclusion and the constraint that at most 100% of people exist.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Total people = 1000
  • Hindi speakers H = 750
  • English speakers E = 400
  • No statement that everyone speaks at least one language


Concept / Approach:
The size of the overlap satisfies |H ∩ E| ≥ |H| + |E| − 1000 = 150 (pigeonhole bound). Minimizing Hindi-only means maximizing the overlap.



Step-by-Step Solution:
Minimum overlap = 150Hindi-only minimum = |H| − |H ∩ E| = 750 − 150 = 600



Verification / Alternative check:
An arrangement meeting the bound exists: 150 bilingual, 600 Hindi-only, 250 English-only or outsiders adjusted accordingly.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
650, 750, 800 exceed the guaranteed minimum; the question asks for the minimum that must be Hindi-only.



Common Pitfalls:
Subtracting 400 from 750 directly (ignores total cap) or assuming everyone speaks at least one language when not stated.



Final Answer:
600

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