Question 1

Fill in the blank with the correct phrasal verb: The management gave us permission to _____ with the new curriculum.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This item tests your understanding of English phrasal verbs connected with starting or continuing a plan or project. Such collocations are very common in academic, corporate, and administrative contexts, so exam questions often ask you to select the most natural sounding combination. Given Data / Assumptions: - Sentence: The management gave us permission to _____ with the new curriculum. - Options: go fixed, go about, go ahead, go around. - Management granting permission implies approval to start or proceed. - The object of the verb is the new curriculum. Concept / Approach: The phrasal verb go ahead with something means to begin or continue a plan after receiving approval. Therefore, when management gives permission, the natural phrase is to go ahead with the new curriculum. Other phrasal verbs with go have different meanings and do not fit the context of formal permission to implement a plan. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Interpret the sentence as management allowing the team to start implementing the curriculum. Step 2: Recall that go ahead with means to proceed or continue after getting approval. Step 3: Fit the phrasal verb into the sentence: to go ahead with the new curriculum. Step 4: Test go about. Go about something generally means to deal with or approach a task, not to start it after permission. Step 5: Test go around. This means to move from place to place or to be sufficient in quantity, which does not match the sentence. Step 6: Go fixed is not a standard phrasal verb in this context at all. Step 7: Therefore, go ahead is the correct choice. Verification / Alternative check: Consider similar sentences: The committee agreed, so we can go ahead with the project. The authorities finally allowed us to go ahead with the construction. In all cases, go ahead with clearly means to proceed following approval. Replacing the blank with go ahead produces a fluent and idiomatic sentence that matches this pattern. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Go fixed in option A is not a recognised phrasal verb and is completely unidiomatic here. Go about in option B would suggest the manner of doing a task, not the permission to begin implementing a new curriculum. Go around in option D either means to circulate or to be enough for everyone, and does not collocate with curriculum in the sense of starting it. Common Pitfalls: A common pitfall is to pick any familiar phrasal verb without checking whether it matches the exact meaning suggested by the sentence. Another error is to ignore the fixed preposition with. Some students choose go about but then the combination go about with the new curriculum sounds odd. Always consider both meaning and natural collocation when choosing phrasal verbs. Final Answer: The correct phrase is to go ahead with the new curriculum, so the answer is go ahead.

Question 2

Choose the most appropriate word to complete the sentence: Mount Everest has earned the _____ distinction of being the world's highest garbage dump.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks your understanding of collocations and nuanced vocabulary in English. When we speak of a distinction, we often pair it with adjectives like high, special, honorary, or dubious. The sentence here is ironic, because being the world s highest garbage dump is not a positive distinction. Given Data / Assumptions: - Sentence: Mount Everest has earned the _____ distinction of being the world s highest garbage dump. - Options: marked, disgusting, dubious, dismal. - The expression is about a negative or shameful kind of distinction. - Standard collocations in journalism and formal writing are assumed. Concept / Approach: The phrase dubious distinction is a common collocation used to describe an honour or distinction that is actually negative, shameful, or questionable. It indicates that although something is noteworthy, it is not something to be proud of. Therefore, we must select the adjective that naturally forms this phrase. The other adjectives do not usually collocate with distinction in this way. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that being a garbage dump is not a positive achievement. Step 2: Recall the fixed phrase dubious distinction, used for negative records or achievements. Step 3: Test option C, dubious, in the sentence: has earned the dubious distinction of being the world s highest garbage dump. Step 4: Check option A, marked. Marked distinction is possible, but it emphasises clear difference rather than negative irony, and it is uncommon in this exact phrase. Step 5: Check option B, disgusting. Disgusting describes something revolting but does not collocate well with distinction. Step 6: Check option D, dismal, which describes something very bad or gloomy, again not fitting the fixed expression. Step 7: Therefore, dubious is the most suitable and idiomatic choice. Verification / Alternative check: Look at other examples: This city has the dubious distinction of having the worst traffic in the country. That company holds the dubious distinction of the highest number of complaints. In each case, dubious distinction highlights a negative achievement. Replacing the blank with dubious in the Mount Everest sentence creates exactly this kind of ironic negative honour. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Marked in option A suggests clear or noticeable, but marked distinction is not a standard phrase used for negative records. Disgusting in option B is too direct and does not grammatically pair with distinction in standard usage. Dismal in option D conveys misery or very poor quality but again does not fit well before distinction. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes choose adjectives based only on negative meaning without checking fixed expressions. English has many collocations where one particular adjective is strongly preferred, such as heavy rain, strong tea, and dubious distinction. Ignoring these patterns can lead to unnatural sentences. It is useful to note such fixed combinations when reading newspapers and magazines. Final Answer: The correct word is dubious, giving the phrase the dubious distinction.

Question 3

In this idiom question, choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the phrase As daft as a brush.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Idioms are fixed expressions whose meanings cannot be understood by translating each word separately. As daft as a brush is a British English idiom that appears in informal speech and writing. Exams frequently test such idioms to check whether you can recognise their figurative meaning rather than interpreting them literally. Given Data / Assumptions: - Idiom: As daft as a brush. - Options: Extremely silly, Artistically inclined, Completely clean, Utterly selfish. - Context is not provided, so you must rely on knowledge of the idiom. Concept / Approach: The structure as adjective as is often used for similes, for example as cool as a cucumber or as busy as a bee. In this idiom, daft means silly or foolish. The object, a brush, does not literally have intelligence, so the entire expression humorously exaggerates foolishness. Therefore, the idiom describes someone who is extremely silly or very stupid, not artistic, clean, or selfish. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the key adjective daft, which in British English means silly, foolish, or slightly crazy. Step 2: Recognise the pattern as daft as a brush as a fixed idiomatic simile. Step 3: Understand that the idiom emphasises a very high degree of foolishness. Step 4: Compare with options. Extremely silly matches this meaning exactly. Step 5: Artistically inclined does not relate to foolishness at all. Step 6: Completely clean refers to physical cleanliness and ignores the idea of silliness. Step 7: Utterly selfish deals with selfishness, not stupidity, so it is also incorrect. Verification / Alternative check: Consider a typical sentence: Everyone else understood the simple instructions, but he behaved as daft as a brush. Here, the context clearly suggests that the person is being very foolish or silly. Replacing the idiom with extremely silly produces a sentence with the same sense and tone. No other option preserves the meaning, which confirms the correctness of that choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Artistically inclined suggests talent or interest in art and has nothing to do with daftness. Completely clean refers to hygiene or lack of dirt and does not match the mental quality of foolishness. Utterly selfish points to self centred behaviour and not to silliness or stupidity. Common Pitfalls: A common problem with idioms is that learners sometimes translate the words literally or guess based on one part of the phrase. Here, brush might mislead someone into thinking about cleaning, so they might wrongly choose completely clean. To avoid such errors, it is important to memorise idioms as complete units along with their figurative meanings and to revise common similes that use as adjective as patterns. Final Answer: The idiom As daft as a brush means Extremely silly.

Question 4

In this idiom question, choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the phrase In a nutshell.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Idioms such as in a nutshell are widely used in both spoken and written English to signal that a speaker is summarising information. Understanding such phrases is essential for following lectures, reading articles, and answering comprehension questions in exams. Given Data / Assumptions: - Idiom: In a nutshell. - Options: In translation, A decorative language, A well packed parcel, Briefly and concisely. - No specific sentence context is given. Concept / Approach: The expression in a nutshell comes from the idea of fitting something large into a very small space, like a nutshell. Figuratively, it means to express something in a very brief form, capturing only the essential points. Therefore, the correct meaning is briefly and concisely. The other options either relate to language in a different way or have completely different meanings. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that in a nutshell is used before giving a short summary. Step 2: Consider common examples such as In a nutshell, the project failed because of poor planning. Step 3: Match this usage with the options. Briefly and concisely clearly expresses the idea of a short summary. Step 4: Check In translation, which refers to changing language and not to making a summary. Step 5: A decorative language refers to flowery or ornate style, which is the opposite of concise speech. Step 6: A well packed parcel is a literal description of an object and does not describe speech or writing. Step 7: Therefore option D is the only meaning that fits the idiom. Verification / Alternative check: Insert each option into a sample sentence: In a nutshell, the book explains how to manage your time. Replacing in a nutshell with briefly and concisely gives Briefly and concisely, the book explains how to manage your time, which preserves the sense. Replacing it with the other options produces strange or meaningless sentences, confirming that they are incorrect. Why Other Options Are Wrong: In translation suggests the content is expressed in another language, not in short form. A decorative language suggests elaborate or highly stylised writing, which is not what nutshell implies. A well packed parcel describes an object and does not connect with summarising information. Common Pitfalls: Learners sometimes try to visualise the literal picture, thinking of an actual nut and shell, and then guess meanings related to physical packing, such as parcel. While the original metaphor is physical, the modern meaning is entirely about brevity of speech or text. Always remember that idioms carry figurative meanings that can be quite different from the literal image. Final Answer: The idiom In a nutshell means Briefly and concisely.

Question 5

In this idiom question, choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the phrase Strain every nerve.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The idiom strain every nerve is used in English to describe making the maximum possible effort to achieve something. It appears in literature, newspapers, and exam passages, so understanding it helps with both vocabulary and comprehension questions. Given Data / Assumptions: - Idiom: Strain every nerve. - Options: Try all tricks, Work very hard, Beg before others, Spend a large amount. - No example sentence is given, so you must rely on idiom knowledge. Concept / Approach: The word strain here means to put under intense effort or pressure, as when muscles are strained. Nerves are associated with physical and mental exertion. Together, strain every nerve creates a vivid picture of using all strength and energy. Therefore, the idiom means to work very hard or make every possible effort, not to use tricks, beg, or spend money. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that strain suggests effort or tension, not trickery or begging. Step 2: Understand that every nerve emphasises total involvement of the body and mind. Step 3: Combine the two to get the idea of making the utmost effort. Step 4: Compare with options. Work very hard directly expresses maximum effort. Step 5: Try all tricks suggests resorting to dishonest or clever methods, which is not implied. Step 6: Beg before others and Spend a large amount introduce completely different ideas of begging or spending, unrelated to the idiom. Step 7: Therefore, the best meaning is Work very hard. Verification / Alternative check: Use an example: The team strained every nerve to win the championship. If we replace strained every nerve with worked very hard, the sentence remains accurate in meaning. Replacing it with tried all tricks changes the tone towards dishonesty, which may not be intended. Begging or spending money would not fit naturally in such contexts, confirming that the correct answer must be related to intense effort. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Try all tricks implies using deceitful or manipulative methods, which is not part of the idiom s usual sense. Beg before others shifts the meaning toward pleading for help or charity. Spend a large amount refers to financial expenditure, unrelated to nervous or muscular effort. Common Pitfalls: A frequent mistake is to focus on every and assume the idiom must mean trying every possible method, including tricks. However, the core word strain signals physical or mental exertion, not cunning schemes. To avoid such errors, learners should pay attention to the central image of the idiom and recall example sentences from reading practice where the phrase appears. Final Answer: The idiom Strain every nerve means Work very hard.

Question 6

Choose the one word substitution for the following description: Proposition made as a basis for reasoning without the assumption of its truth.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: One word substitution questions test your ability to match precise English terms with their definitions. The description given here is a common concept in science, logic, and mathematics, and a correct understanding helps in many academic disciplines as well as in competitive exams. Given Data / Assumptions: - Description: Proposition made as a basis for reasoning without the assumption of its truth. - Options: Hypertext, Hypocrisy, Hyperbole, Hypothesis. - The term is used in logical and scientific contexts. Concept / Approach: A hypothesis is a tentative explanation or proposition that is proposed for further investigation and testing. It is not assumed to be true at the start, but used as a starting point for reasoning, experiments, or proofs. The other options refer to very different ideas: hypertext in computing, hypocrisy in behaviour, and hyperbole in language. Recognising the correct field and meaning is the key to answering this question. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the definition of hypothesis from science: a proposed explanation based on limited evidence, used as a starting point for investigation. Step 2: Match this with the wording proposition made as a basis for reasoning without the assumption of its truth. Step 3: Examine hypertext. This relates to linked text in computing and web pages, not reasoning or propositions. Step 4: Examine hypocrisy. This describes pretending to have virtues, beliefs, or principles that one does not actually hold. Step 5: Examine hyperbole. This means deliberate exaggeration used for emphasis or effect in language. Step 6: None of these match the idea of a tentative proposition used for reasoning. Step 7: Therefore, hypothesis is the only option that fits exactly. Verification / Alternative check: Consider an example from science: Researchers formed a hypothesis that the new drug would reduce blood pressure. At this stage, the statement is not known to be true, but it provides a basis for experiments and analysis. This matches the description of a proposition used for reasoning without assuming its truth. Hypertext, hypocrisy, and hyperbole do not function in this way in any field. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Hypertext refers to text displayed on a computer or device that contains links to other texts. Hypocrisy refers to claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one s behaviour does not conform. Hyperbole refers to exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally. Common Pitfalls: The similar spelling patterns hyper and hypo can confuse learners, and they may pick hyperbole or hypocrisy simply because the words look familiar. To avoid this, focus on the precise definition in the question and recall typical usage. Words beginning with hypo often indicate under or below, as in hypothesis, hypodermic, or hypothermia, while hyper often suggests over or above, as in hyperactive or hyperbole. Final Answer: The correct one word substitution is Hypothesis.

Question 7

Choose the one word substitution for the following description: Indifference to pleasure and pain.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks your knowledge of philosophical and character related vocabulary. The ability to match such descriptions with precise terms is useful in reading essays, philosophy, and psychology, as well as in understanding personality traits described in literature. Given Data / Assumptions: - Description: Indifference to pleasure and pain. - Options: Perseverance, Tolerance, Stoicism, Radicalism. - The term describes an attitude or mindset, not a political ideology or simple endurance. Concept / Approach: Stoicism is a philosophical school that emphasises control over emotions and acceptance of whatever happens, seeing both pleasure and pain as external and not worth emotional disturbance. In general language, stoicism describes calm endurance of hardship without complaint. This matches the idea of indifference to pleasure and pain. The other options signal different concepts and do not directly express this balanced indifference. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Match the description to known character traits. Indifference to both pleasure and pain suggests emotional detachment. Step 2: Recall that Stoicism teaches people to accept life s events with calm and not to be ruled by desire for pleasure or fear of pain. Step 3: Examine Perseverance. This means continued effort in spite of difficulties but does not imply indifference to pleasure. Step 4: Examine Tolerance. This refers to willingness to accept opinions or behaviour that one dislikes, which is different from indifference to pain or pleasure. Step 5: Examine Radicalism. This relates to extreme political or social views, not emotional balance. Step 6: Only Stoicism directly captures a steady attitude that neither seeks pleasure nor fears pain. Verification / Alternative check: Consider an example sentence: She met the news of success and failure with equal stoicism. This implies she did not get overexcited by success or deeply depressed by failure. That is exactly an indifference or calm acceptance toward both pleasant and unpleasant experiences. Substituting perseverance, tolerance, or radicalism into the same sentence would distort the meaning. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Perseverance focuses on continued effort, not emotional detachment. Tolerance relates to acceptance of differences in people, culture, or opinion. Radicalism refers to extreme political or social positions and has nothing to do with pleasure versus pain. Common Pitfalls: Learners sometimes confuse perseverance and stoicism because both appear in descriptions of strong characters. However, perseverance is about not giving up, while stoicism is about emotional control and calm acceptance. To avoid confusion, remember that Stoicism originated as a formal philosophical school in ancient Greece and Rome, with specific teachings about indifference to external circumstances. Final Answer: The correct one word substitution is Stoicism.

Question 8

Choose the one word substitution for the following description: No longer a child, but not yet an adult.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question focuses on age related terminology. It is important in sociology, psychology, and everyday English to describe different stages of human development accurately. The given description refers to the transitional phase between childhood and adulthood. Given Data / Assumptions: - Description: No longer a child, but not yet an adult. - Options: Youngster, Adolescent, Juvenile, Yokel. - The word must denote a specific life stage rather than just youth or immaturity in general. Concept / Approach: Adolescent is the term used in psychology and common language to refer to a person in the teenage years, between childhood and adulthood. The phrase adolescent years usually covers roughly ages thirteen to nineteen. Other options either have broader or different meanings, or refer to social types rather than age groups. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the description points exactly to the teenage transition stage. Step 2: Recall that adolescent describes someone in this transitional age between child and adult. Step 3: Examine Youngster. This is a general term for a young person and can include both children and adolescents. Step 4: Examine Juvenile. This can mean young, but is often used in legal contexts for minors or in a negative way for childish behaviour. Step 5: Examine Yokel, which is an informal word for an unsophisticated person from the countryside and has nothing to do with age stage. Step 6: Therefore, Adolescent best matches the definition. Verification / Alternative check: Look at example usage: Adolescent psychology focuses on issues experienced during the teenage years. A person of this age is called an adolescent. In contrast, juvenile court deals with all minors, including younger children, and youngster is a loose word for any young person. The definition no longer a child, but not yet an adult matches adolescent most closely in both ordinary and technical usage. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Youngster is too broad and does not clearly specify the transitional stage between child and adult. Juvenile is often used in legal or negative contexts and again covers all minors, not specifically the transition age. Yokel describes a naive or unsophisticated rural person, with no reference to age category. Common Pitfalls: Many learners select juvenile because they associate it with youth crimes and teenage offenders. However, the question is neutral and about developmental stage, not legal status. Remember that adolescent has a more precise psychological and biological meaning, which fits the description of moving from childhood toward adulthood. Final Answer: The correct one word substitution is Adolescent.

Question 9

In this grammar improvement question, choose the alternative that best improves the sentence: I bought four dozen of mangoes.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question examines your understanding of number expressions with words like dozen, score, hundred, and thousand. In English, there is a special rule for using these words with numerals, which often appears in competitive exam questions on sentence improvement. Given Data / Assumptions: - Original sentence: I bought four dozen of mangoes. - Options suggest different forms of dozen and usage with of. - The sentence describes a specific quantity of fruit purchased. Concept / Approach: When a numeral directly precedes words like dozen, hundred, or thousand, the noun following them is used without of, and the count word remains in singular form. For example, we say four dozen mangoes, not four dozens of mangoes. The plural form dozens is used when the number is not specified, as in dozens of mangoes. Therefore, the correct improvement must follow this rule. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the structure four dozen of mangoes in the original sentence. Step 2: Recall the rule: numeral plus count word in singular plus plural noun, without of, for example, three dozen eggs. Step 3: Apply the rule to get four dozen mangoes. Step 4: Examine option C, dozen mangoes. This removes of and keeps mangoes plural but misses the numeral four. Step 5: However, in the answer options, option C is intended to read four dozen mangoes as a corrected phrase within the sentence I bought four dozen mangoes. Step 6: Options A and B use dozens of, which is used only when the number is not specified. Step 7: No improvement is wrong because the original uses of incorrectly. Verification / Alternative check: Compare with other correct examples: She ordered two dozen roses. They collected five hundred rupees. We never say two dozens of roses when we know the exact number. If we do not know the exact count, we might say dozens of roses, but that structure is different. Thus, the corrected form four dozen mangoes is grammatically consistent with standard usage. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Dozens of mango in option A uses dozens correctly only when the exact number is not specified and also keeps mango in singular, which is incorrect. Dozens of mangoes in option B incorrectly uses dozens with a specified numeral four in the sentence. No improvement in option D cannot be correct because of is unnecessary and incorrect in the original sentence. Common Pitfalls: Many learners overuse of after quantity words or think that dozen must become dozens whenever the number is more than one. Remember the special rule: when a specific number is given, the count word stays singular and of is omitted. Only when the number is vague or not mentioned do we use dozens of, hundreds of, and similar patterns. Final Answer: The correct improvement is I bought four dozen mangoes, so the best choice is dozen mangoes.

Question 10

In this grammar improvement question, choose the best alternative to replace the underlined part: I have still to meet a person who is perfectly satisfied with his job.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of idiomatic English expressions used to talk about experiences that have not yet happened. The sentence expresses that the speaker has never come across a certain kind of person till now, and a more natural structure than have still to meet is required. Given Data / Assumptions: - Original sentence: I have still to meet a person who is perfectly satisfied with his job. - Underlined part: have still to meet. - Options offer different verb phrases to replace the underlined part. - The meaning should remain that the experience has not occurred so far. Concept / Approach: In modern English, the phrase I am yet to meet is a common and natural way to say that something has not happened up to the present time. It uses be yet to plus infinitive. The structure have still to meet is less idiomatic and sounds slightly awkward in standard exam English. The other options either change the tense or weaken the intended meaning. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the intended meaning: the speaker has never met such a person till now. Step 2: Recognise that the pattern be yet to plus verb expresses this idea clearly, as in I am yet to see. Step 3: Option B, am yet to meet, fits this pattern and keeps the present reference intact. Step 4: Option A, would meet, shifts the meaning to a conditional or hypothetical future situation. Step 5: Option C, might still meet, changes the focus to possibility rather than absence of past experience. Step 6: Option D, No improvement, keeps the less natural construction have still to meet. Step 7: Therefore, am yet to meet is the best and most idiomatic choice. Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite using the chosen phrase: I am yet to meet a person who is perfectly satisfied with his job. This clearly communicates that up to the present moment, such a person has not been encountered. The tense is present and matches the idea of an ongoing situation. In comparison, would meet and might still meet imply future or hypothetical possibilities rather than a statement about past non occurrence. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Would meet in option A suggests a conditional if clause that is not present in the sentence. Might still meet in option C emphasises uncertainty about the future rather than the absence of past experience. No improvement in option D is incorrect because the original phrase is not the most idiomatic form in standard English usage. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to pick No improvement whenever a sentence seems understandable. However, exams often require you to choose the most natural and widely accepted expression, not just any grammatically possible one. Another pitfall is confusing perfect tenses with the be yet to structure. Remember that I am yet to plus verb is a compact way to say something has not happened so far. Final Answer: The best improvement is am yet to meet, so the correct answer is option B.

Question 11

In this grammar improvement question, choose the best alternative to replace the underlined part: Would you find one absent, please do not forget to leave a message behind.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of conditional sentences and formal inversion in English. The original sentence attempts to express a condition about finding someone absent, but the structure Would you find one absent is awkward and unidiomatic. Given Data / Assumptions: - Original sentence: Would you find one absent, please do not forget to leave a message behind. - Underlined part: Would you find one absent. - Options: As you find, Should you find, Unless you find, No improvement. - The intended meaning is If you find one absent. Concept / Approach: In formal English, a conditional clause beginning with if can sometimes be replaced by an inversion starting with should, for example Should you need help, contact me. This is equivalent to If you should need help. Hence, Should you find one absent is a correct and stylistically appropriate alternative for If you find one absent. The other options either change the meaning or produce incorrect linkages. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the intended condition: If you find one absent. Step 2: Recognise that the construction Would you find is not standard for conditional clauses. Step 3: Evaluate Should you find, which is a correct inversion structure equivalent to If you find. Step 4: Evaluate As you find, which suggests at the same time that you find, not a conditional sense. Step 5: Evaluate Unless you find, which introduces a negative condition and reverses the meaning. Step 6: Evaluate No improvement, which would keep the unidiomatic phrase. Step 7: Therefore, Should you find is the best replacement. Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite the sentence in a fully standard form: If you find one absent, please do not forget to leave a message behind. Now convert the if clause to formal inversion: Should you find one absent, please do not forget to leave a message behind. This matches option B exactly and sounds natural in formal instructions or notices. Why Other Options Are Wrong: As you find in option A suggests simultaneity rather than condition and does not fit the intended meaning. Unless you find in option C would mean if you do not find one absent, which is the opposite of what is meant. No improvement in option D is wrong because the structure Would you find one absent is not standard conditional usage. Common Pitfalls: Learners often confuse modal verbs like would and should in conditional sentences and may produce hybrid forms that are not idiomatic. Another pitfall is to ignore subtle differences between conjunctions such as if, as, and unless. To avoid these issues, practice recognising correct formal inversions like Should you require assistance or Had I known earlier and compare them with their equivalent if clauses. Final Answer: The correct improvement is Should you find one absent, so the answer is option B.

Question 12

In this grammar improvement question, choose the best alternative to replace the underlined part: Kim is too impatient with tolerating any delay.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks two important grammar points: the correct use of too plus adjective plus infinitive and the natural preposition choice after certain adjectives. The sentence aims to show that Kim is so impatient that she cannot accept any delay. Given Data / Assumptions: - Original sentence: Kim is too impatient with tolerating any delay. - Underlined part: with tolerating. - Options: at tolerating, for tolerating, to tolerate, No improvement. - The intended meaning is that her impatience makes it impossible for her to tolerate delay. Concept / Approach: The standard pattern in English for such sentences is too plus adjective plus infinitive, for example too impatient to tolerate any delay. The preposition with does not fit this structure, and the gerund tolerating also breaks the usual pattern. Among the alternatives, to tolerate correctly completes the too plus adjective structure and preserves the intended meaning. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the structure too impatient with tolerating, which sounds awkward. Step 2: Recall the pattern too plus adjective plus to plus base verb, for example too tired to walk. Step 3: Apply this to get too impatient to tolerate any delay. Step 4: Check option C, to tolerate, which exactly fits this pattern. Step 5: Option A, at tolerating, does not follow the too plus adjective structure and is unidiomatic here. Step 6: Option B, for tolerating, again fails to match the pattern and changes the sense. Step 7: No improvement is incorrect because the original phrase is not standard English. Verification / Alternative check: Consider similar sentences: She is too shy to speak in public. He is too proud to ask for help. In each case, to plus base verb follows too plus adjective. Rewriting the original sentence as Kim is too impatient to tolerate any delay fits this established pattern and clearly expresses that her impatience prevents her from accepting delays. Why Other Options Are Wrong: At tolerating in option A would usually follow good or bad at, not impatient. For tolerating in option B suggests a purpose or reason rather than a result of impatience. No improvement in option D would keep the incorrect preposition with and the gerund tolerating. Common Pitfalls: Learners often mix up patterns like good at plus gerund, capable of plus gerund, and too plus adjective plus infinitive. They may also insert unnecessary prepositions such as with or for because the phrase sounds similar to patience with. To avoid confusion, it is helpful to memorise common structures separately and practise them in example sentences. Final Answer: The correct improvement is Kim is too impatient to tolerate any delay, so the answer is to tolerate.

Question 13

In this grammar improvement question, choose the best alternative to replace the underlined part: I purposely did that with a view to offend her.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question examines your knowledge of fixed phrases in English, specifically with a view to, which is commonly used to express intention or purpose. While the words view and offend might tempt you to add different prepositions or verb forms, there is a standard pattern that must be followed. Given Data / Assumptions: - Original sentence: I purposely did that with a view to offend her. - Underlined part: with a view to offend her. - Options suggest variations with different prepositions and verb forms. - The intended meaning is that the speaker acted deliberately in order to offend her. Concept / Approach: The standard expression is with a view to plus gerund, meaning with the intention of doing something. Therefore, the verb that follows to should be in its ing form, not base form. Among the options, with a view to offending her fits this pattern perfectly. Any change to of or that, or keeping the verb in base form, breaks the idiomatic structure. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that with a view to is a fixed prepositional phrase expressing purpose. Step 2: Recall that preposition to in such phrases is followed by a gerund, not a base verb. Step 3: Change offend to offending, giving with a view to offending her. Step 4: Option C matches this corrected form exactly. Step 5: Option A, with a view of offending her, changes the preposition and is less idiomatic. Step 6: Option B, with a view that I offend her, is ungrammatical and awkwardly structured. Step 7: No improvement is wrong because the original verb form is incorrect after to in this phrase. Verification / Alternative check: Check with similar sentences: He went abroad with a view to improving his career prospects. The organisation held a meeting with a view to resolving the dispute. In both examples, improving and resolving are gerunds following with a view to. Rewriting the original as I purposely did that with a view to offending her brings it in line with this standard pattern. Why Other Options Are Wrong: With a view of offending her in option A is not the standard collocation, as the expression traditionally uses to, not of. With a view that I offend her in option B is clumsy, introduces an unnecessary clause, and does not follow normal English usage. No improvement in option D cannot be correct because to offend must be changed to to offending after with a view to. Common Pitfalls: Learners often confuse the infinitive marker to with the preposition to. In with a view to, to is a preposition and must be followed by a gerund, whereas in patterns like to offend, it is part of an infinitive. Confusing these roles leads to errors in verb form. Remember that fixed phrases such as with a view to, look forward to, and be committed to are always followed by ing verbs. Final Answer: The correct improvement is with a view to offending her, so the answer is option C.

Question 14

According to the passage on antigen antibody immunity, one of the two important manifestations of antigen antibody immunity is lysis while the other is ____.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question is based on a scientific reading comprehension passage about antigen antibody immunity. Such passages often describe technical processes and mechanisms, and the questions check whether you can identify and recall key points rather than understand every specialised term. Given Data / Assumptions: - The passage explains how antibodies and antigens interact in the immune system. - It states that two important manifestations of antigen antibody immunity are lysis and another process. - Options given: lymphocytes, plasma, antigenic cells, phagocytosis. - We assume the question refers directly to wording in the passage. Concept / Approach: To answer, you should locate or recall the sentence in the passage that lists the two manifestations. The passage states that two important manifestations of antigen antibody immunity are lysis and phagocytosis. Therefore, the correct answer is phagocytosis. The other options name components or elements in the immune system but not the manifestation mentioned alongside lysis. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the relevant sentence in the passage. It says that two important manifestations of antigen antibody immunity are lysis and phagocytosis. Step 2: Note that lysis is already given in the question as one manifestation. Step 3: Recognise that the question asks for the other manifestation mentioned in that sentence. Step 4: Recall or re read that the second term listed is phagocytosis. Step 5: Compare with options and locate phagocytosis among them. Step 6: Confirm that lymphocytes, plasma, and antigenic cells are mentioned in the passage but not as the second manifestation alongside lysis. Step 7: Therefore, choose phagocytosis as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: A quick verification method is to understand the roles: lysis is described as rapid breaking of antigenic cells, whereas phagocytosis is described as the process in which antigenic particles are engulfed and often digested by specific cells. The passage explicitly groups these two as important manifestations of antigen antibody immunity. Lymphocytes are cells that produce antibodies, plasma is the liquid component of blood, and antigenic cells are targets, not manifestations themselves. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Lymphocytes in option A are a type of white blood cell that give rise to plasma cells and antibodies but are not named as a manifestation. Plasma in option B is the fluid part of blood and again is not presented as one of the two manifestations. Antigenic cells in option C are the cells that may be destroyed or engulfed, not the process itself. Common Pitfalls: In reading comprehension, students sometimes pick any familiar scientific term rather than the one explicitly mentioned in the relevant sentence. Another pitfall is misunderstanding the word manifestation, which here means observable effect or outcome, such as a process like lysis or phagocytosis. Always return to the exact wording of the passage and note whether a term refers to a process, a cell type, or a substance. Final Answer: The other important manifestation of antigen antibody immunity, besides lysis, is phagocytosis.

Question 15

Read the passage carefully and choose the best answer to each question out of the four alternatives and click the button corresponding to it. According to this immunology passage, what exactly are antibodies that take part in the antigen–antibody re…

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Introduction / Context: This reading comprehension question is based on a short scientific passage about the immune system, specifically the antigen antibody reaction. Competitive examinations often test English through such factual passages, where the candidate must identify the precise meaning of words and phrases taken from the text. Here the focus is on the term antibodies and on understanding their biological nature as described by the passage, not on outside general knowledge alone. Given Data / Assumptions: The passage explains the antigen antibody immunological reaction. It states that antibodies are proteins synthesized by specialized cells called plasma cells. Plasma cells are formed by lymphocytes when an antigen comes in contact with them. The question asks what antibodies are according to the passage. We assume that the correct option must closely match the wording and idea used in the passage. Concept / Approach: The key concept here is factual detail recognition. In reading comprehension, the safest way to answer such a question is to go back to the relevant sentence in the passage and read it carefully. The question asks what antibodies are, so we should directly locate the sentence that defines antibodies. Once we identify the definition, we compare that wording with the answer options and choose the one that preserves both the meaning and the emphasis of the original line. Options that add new ideas, distort the meaning, or contradict the passage must be rejected even if they sound scientific. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Locate the defining sentence about antibodies in the passage. Step 2: The passage states that antibodies are proteins synthesized by specialized cells called plasma cells. Step 3: Note that this description includes two ideas: antibodies are proteins, and these proteins are synthesized by plasma cells. Step 4: Examine each option and ask which one matches this explanation most faithfully. Step 5: Option C says protein molecules synthesized by plasma cells in response to antigens, which captures both that they are proteins and that plasma cells synthesize them when antigens appear. Step 6: The other options either talk about dead cells, minerals, sugars, or fats, none of which match the passage. Step 7: Therefore, Option C is the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: A quick cross check is to test whether the chosen answer fits back into the passage logically. If we replace the term antibodies in the text with protein molecules synthesized by plasma cells in response to antigens, the sentence still makes clear biological sense. If we try to replace antibodies with minerals, dead cells, sugars, or fats, the description of immunological reactions immediately sounds wrong from both the passage perspective and basic biology. This confirms that the selected option is consistent with the context and preserves scientific accuracy as described in the passage. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Mineral substances stored inside the body cells is incorrect because the passage does not mention minerals at all in defining antibodies, and antibodies are not minerals. Dead cells that no longer perform any function is wrong because the passage states that antibodies are synthesized proteins, not dead or inactive cells. Simple sugars that circulate in the bloodstream is incorrect because sugars serve as energy sources, not as antigen specific immune proteins. Fat molecules that provide energy during infections is also wrong, because fats are energy reserves and are not described as specific antigen binding molecules in the text. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake in such questions is to rely only on general knowledge or on vague impressions about immune system terms without going back to the exact wording of the passage. Another pitfall is to be misled by answer choices that sound scientific or technical but do not match the description in the given text. Students may also choose an answer that partially matches, such as simply proteins, without capturing the full nuance that they are synthesized by plasma cells in response to antigens, which is why carefully reading the complete sentence is important. Final Answer: The correct answer is Protein molecules synthesized by plasma cells in response to antigens.

Question 16

Read the passage carefully and choose the best answer to each question out of the four alternatives and click the button corresponding to it. According to the passage, what happens when an antigen, a foreign substance, comes into contact with lympho…

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Introduction / Context: This question again tests detailed reading of the same immunology passage. The text describes how the immune system reacts when an antigen, which is any foreign substance, enters the body and interacts with lymphocytes. English comprehension questions of this type measure not only vocabulary but also the ability to trace cause and effect relationships as expressed in complex sentences. Here we must identify the chain of events that begins when an antigen comes into contact with lymphocytes. Given Data / Assumptions: The passage states that antibodies are proteins synthesized by specialized plasma cells. It further explains that plasma cells are formed by lymphocytes when an antigen comes in contact with them. The question asks specifically what happens when an antigen comes into contact with lymphocytes. We must choose the option that best restates that event without adding new information that contradicts the passage. We assume the information in the passage is accurate and complete for the purpose of this question. Concept / Approach: The concept here is cause and effect as described in a scientific explanation. When interpreting such a sentence, we should identify the subject, the condition, and the result. The relevant sentence says that plasma cells are formed by lymphocytes when an antigen comes into contact with them. Thus the antigen contact is the trigger, and plasma cell formation is the result. The correct option should pair these two ideas directly. Options that talk about destroying antibodies, completely breaking down proteins, or rejuvenating old cells are distractors that either misinterpret or exaggerate what the passage actually says. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Return to the sentence that links antigens, lymphocytes, and plasma cells. Step 2: Note the wording that plasma cells are formed by lymphocytes when an antigen comes into contact with them. Step 3: Understand that the sequence is antigen contact with lymphocytes, then formation of plasma cells, then synthesis of antibodies. Step 4: Compare each answer option with this sequence. Step 5: Option B states plasma cells are formed from lymphocytes and begin antibody production, which matches the described outcome. Step 6: Option A, saying antibodies are destroyed, contradicts the idea that antibodies are produced in response to antigens. Step 7: Options C, D, and E talk about other processes that are not mentioned as direct consequences of antigen contact with lymphocytes. Step 8: Conclude that Option B is the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, we can test whether Option B can be inserted into the passage without breaking its logic. When an antigen comes into contact with lymphocytes, plasma cells are formed from lymphocytes and begin antibody production is fully consistent with the original description that these plasma cells synthesize antibodies. On the other hand, destroying antibodies or instantly breaking down antigens by complement ignores the actual sequence of activation given in the passage, where complement requires activation by specific antibodies and does not act at the moment of first antigen contact with lymphocytes. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Antibodies are destroyed by the lymphocytes is wrong because the passage explains that lymphocytes are involved in producing antibodies, not in destroying them. Proteins in the blood are completely broken down is incorrect because the passage talks about antibody synthesis, not general protein breakdown. Old and damaged immune cells are restored to full health is not mentioned anywhere in the text and is therefore an invented idea. The complement system immediately breaks down all antigens is incorrect because the passage clearly states that complement only works after activation by a specific antibody, not directly by antigen contact with lymphocytes. Common Pitfalls: Many learners misread cause and effect in complex scientific sentences, especially when there are several processes described one after another. Another common error is to rely on partial memory of biology concepts instead of reading exactly what the passage says. Exam questions are often designed with plausible sounding traps that look scientific, so it is essential to match the answer to the specific wording and order of events given in the passage. Careful line by line reading can prevent these mistakes. Final Answer: The correct answer is Plasma cells are formed from lymphocytes and begin antibody production.

Question 17

Read the passage carefully and choose the best answer to each question out of the four alternatives and click the button corresponding to it. In the context of the immunology passage, which statement about antigen–antibody immunity is factually true…

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Introduction / Context: This question again uses the same immunology passage but now asks the learner to identify which statement is true according to the text. Such questions test comprehension of specific details and the ability to distinguish between correct and incorrect factual statements. The passage gives several technical terms, including lysis, phagocytosis, antigen, antibody, and complement, and the options are built around these definitions and descriptions. Given Data / Assumptions: The passage states that antigen–antibody reaction was regarded as typical of immunological responses. It defines antibodies as proteins synthesized by plasma cells when antigens contact lymphocytes. It explains that lysis is rapid physical rupture of antigenic cells, executed by complement. Complement is described as a complex and unstable blood constituent that must be activated by a specific antibody. Phagocytosis involves antigenic particles being engulfed and often digested by macrophages and polymorphs. Concept / Approach: The concept tested is recognition of accurate factual information versus distractors. We need to restate in our own words what the passage says about each term, and then check which answer option matches exactly. Any option that introduces a psychological angle, changes the nature of antigen, or misdefines lysis or phagocytosis must be eliminated. The only safe choice is the one that corresponds closely to the sentences of the passage without distortion or exaggeration. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall or re read how the passage describes complement. Step 2: The passage says that the process of lysis is executed by a complex and unstable blood constituent known as complement. Step 3: Compare this description with Option C, which states that complement is a complex and unstable constituent of blood. Step 4: Note that the wording matches almost exactly, so Option C is very likely correct. Step 5: Examine Option A, which calls antigen antibody a psychological process. The passage clearly talks about immunological, not psychological, reactions. Step 6: Examine Option B, which incorrectly defines lysis as forming plasma cells, while the passage defines it as physical rupture of antigenic cells. Step 7: Examine Option D, which calls antigen a natural part of the organism body, but the passage clearly says antigen is a substance foreign to the body. Step 8: Examine Option E, which wrongly associates phagocytosis with antibodies breaking down, although the passage states it involves macrophages engulfing antigenic particles. Step 9: Conclude that Option C is the only statement fully supported by the passage. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, we match each term used in the options with its passage definition. Lysis involves rupture of antigenic cells, not formation of plasma cells. Antigens are foreign substances, so Option D is wrong. Phagocytosis deals with engulfing antigenic particles, not decomposing antibodies. The passage never connects antigen antibody reactions to psychology, so Option A is also wrong. This leaves only the statement about complement being a complex and unstable blood constituent, which fits exactly. This cross elimination technique confirms our answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Antigen–antibody is described as a psychological process of the mind is wrong because the passage deals with immunological, physiological mechanisms. Lysis is a process of forming plasma cells is wrong because plasma cells are formed from lymphocytes, while lysis refers to physical rupture of antigenic cells. Antigen is part of the organism body is incorrect because the passage calls it a substance foreign to the body. Phagocytosis is the process in which antibodies break down into smaller molecules is also incorrect because the passage states that macrophages engulf antigenic particles, not antibodies themselves. Common Pitfalls: Students often skim scientific passages and remember only isolated technical words, then guess based on vague memory. This can make any scientific sounding option feel correct, even if it contradicts the text. Another common pitfall is to rely on partial personal knowledge of biology and ignore the specific wording of the passage. In competitive exams, the safest method is to trust the passage more than memory and to verify each option directly against what is written. Final Answer: The correct answer is Complement is described as a complex and unstable constituent of blood.

Question 18

Read the passage carefully and choose the best answer to each question out of the four alternatives and click the button corresponding to it. According to the passage, phagocytosis is a process in which antigenic particles are what, before very ofte…

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Introduction / Context: This reading comprehension question focuses on a single word used in the immunology passage, namely phagocytosis. Although the term is technical, the passage itself defines it clearly. The task is to connect the description in the sentence with the appropriate word among the options. Such questions test careful reading and understanding of how a scientific process is explained in plain language, rather than deep prior knowledge of biology. Given Data / Assumptions: The passage describes two key manifestations of antigen antibody immunity: lysis and phagocytosis. Lysis is defined as rapid physical rupture of antigenic cells with release of their contents. Phagocytosis is described as a process in which antigenic particles are engulfed by and often digested by macrophages and polymorphs. The question asks what happens to antigenic particles during phagocytosis. We assume that the correct answer must match the descriptive verb used in the passage, which is engulfed. Concept / Approach: The concept here is vocabulary in context. The passage already gives an easy to understand explanation by using the verb engulfed, which suggests that the cells take in or swallow the antigenic particles. To solve the question, we must recognize that engulfed carries this meaning and then look for the option that expresses that idea most faithfully. Options that talk about attacking from a distance, attracting magnetically, or releasing into the air do not fit the description. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the exact sentence in the passage that mentions phagocytosis. Step 2: Note that the sentence states that phagocytosis is a process in which antigenic particles are engulfed by and very often digested by macrophages and polymorphs. Step 3: Recognize that the key action word is engulfed, which means taken into the cell. Step 4: Compare this wording with each answer option. Step 5: Option D states that antigenic particles are engulfed by macrophages and polymorphs inside the body, which clearly echoes the passage. Step 6: Option A, attacked from a distance by antibodies, focuses on antibodies, not on cells engulfing particles. Step 7: Option B, attracted magnetically, introduces a completely new idea not present in the text. Step 8: Option C, enveloped by external protein layers, does not mention ingestion of particles. Step 9: Option E, released harmlessly into the surrounding air, contradicts the notion of internal digestion. Step 10: Conclude that Option D is the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: As an additional check, we can recall basic biology knowledge. Phagocytosis is widely defined as a process where certain cells, such as macrophages, ingest foreign particles or microbes. This matches the idea that they engulf and digest antigenic particles. Therefore Option D is consistent not only with the passage but also with standard scientific usage. All other options conflict with this understanding and so can be safely rejected. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Attacked from a distance by antibodies is incorrect because phagocytosis describes the action of cells, not antibodies acting at a distance. Attracted magnetically toward red blood cells is wrong as there is no mention of magnetism or red blood cells in the description. Enveloped by external protein layers suggests coating rather than ingestion, which does not match the idea of engulfing and digesting. Released harmlessly into the surrounding air is obviously inconsistent with a process that takes place inside the body and ends in digestion of particles. Common Pitfalls: Students may confuse phagocytosis with neutralization by antibodies or with lysis, leading them to select options that mention antibodies or rupture. Another pitfall is guessing based on the sound of the word rather than reading the sentence carefully. Because scientific terms can be intimidating, some learners may ignore the clear explanation already given in the text. Slowing down and matching the exact verb used in the passage with the answer choice is the best way to avoid these mistakes. Final Answer: The correct answer is Engulfed by macrophages and polymorphs inside the body.

Question 19

In the following question, the sentence is given with a blank to be filled in with an appropriate word. Select the correct alternative out of the four and indicate it by selecting the appropriate option. Finding the comedy routine extremely funny, t…

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Introduction / Context: This question is a standard English sentence completion item that tests vocabulary and correct usage of adverbs. The sentence describes a family who finds a comedy routine extremely funny and therefore laughs in a certain way along with the rest of the crowd. The blank requires a word that fits both grammatically and logically. The key focus is selecting an adverb that describes how the family laughed, matching the tone of the sentence and the phrase extremely funny. Given Data / Assumptions: The subject is the family, which is a singular collective noun treated as a unit. The predicate describes the family laughing along with the crowd. The family finds the comedy routine extremely funny, which suggests strong laughter. The blank comes directly after the verb laughed, where an adverb is expected to modify the manner of laughing. We want a grammatically correct and contextually appropriate adverb. Concept / Approach: In English grammar, verbs of action, such as laughed, can be modified by adverbs that describe how the action is performed. The structure laughed how requires an adverb, such as loudly, heartily, or hysterically. Nouns or adjectives without appropriate endings usually sound ungrammatical in this position. Additionally, the emotional intensity of extremely funny calls for a word that conveys strong reaction. Hysterically is a common collocation with laughed and matches the tone of intense amusement. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the required part of speech. After the verb laughed, we need an adverb of manner. Step 2: Examine each option. Lot is a noun and does not function as an adverb in this structure. Step 3: Hysterically is an adverb that describes laughing in an uncontrolled and very amused manner. Step 4: Crazy is an adjective and does not directly work as an adverb in standard English without the suffix ly. Step 5: Guffaw is a noun and also a verb, but not an adverb, so laughed guffaw is incorrect. Step 6: Oddly is an adverb but suggests strange behaviour rather than intense pleasure, and it does not naturally follow the idea of finding something extremely funny. Step 7: Therefore, hysterically is the only option that is both an adverb and semantically appropriate. Verification / Alternative check: Insert each option into the sentence and read it aloud. Finding the comedy routine extremely funny, the family laughed hysterically along with the rest of the crowd sounds natural and idiomatic. Using lot or crazy gives ungrammatical sentences. Guffaw would require a different structure, such as the family let out a guffaw. Oddly does not match the tone of enjoyment implied by extremely funny. This quick substitution test confirms that hysterically is the correct choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Lot fails because it is a noun and so cannot modify the verb laughed directly in this construction. Crazy is an adjective and would need to appear before a noun, as in a crazy family, not after a verb to describe how they laughed. Guffaw is a noun or verb meaning a loud burst of laughter, but it does not work after laughed as an adverb of manner. Oddly is grammatically an adverb but it suggests strange behaviour, which conflicts with the context of cheerful amusement shared with the crowd. Common Pitfalls: A frequent mistake in such questions is to focus only on meaning and ignore grammatical form. Students may think that crazy or guffaw express strong emotion and therefore pick them without checking whether they are adverbs. Another pitfall is not paying attention to collocations. In English, certain verbs commonly pair with specific adverbs, and laughed hysterically is a widely used expression that native speakers recognise instantly. Remembering patterns of natural usage can greatly improve performance in sentence completion tasks. Final Answer: The correct answer is hysterically.

Question 20

In the following question, the sentence is given with a blank to be filled in with an appropriate word. Select the correct alternative out of the four and indicate it by selecting the appropriate option. The detective's ability to ________ makes it …

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Introduction / Context: This English sentence completion question tests vocabulary, collocation, and understanding of meaning in context. The sentence describes a detective whose special ability helps him scare suspects into confessing. We have to find the word that correctly completes the phrase ability to ________ so that the whole sentence makes sense in standard English and reflects a realistic investigative technique. Given Data / Assumptions: The subject is a detective, a professional who questions suspects. The clause makes it easy for him to scare suspects into confessing indicates psychological pressure rather than physical force. The detective has an ability, which is likely a skill or technique used in conversation. The blank follows the infinitive marker to, so a verb in base form is required. We assume the correct word should describe tricking or deceiving suspects in some way. Concept / Approach: The grammatical requirement is to choose a verb that can follow to and that semantically explains how the detective can frighten suspects into revealing the truth. In investigative contexts, a common strategy is to bluff, meaning to pretend to have more evidence or power than one really has, in order to pressure suspects. The other options either do not fit the context or are not used as suitable verbs in such a phrase. This question therefore checks knowledge of the verb bluff and its association with interrogation techniques. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that ability to must be followed by a verb describing a skill. Step 2: Consider bluff, which means to pretend, to deceive someone by making them think you know more than you do. Step 3: Check if this meaning suits the context. A detective can bluff about having strong evidence to scare suspects into confessing, so it fits perfectly. Step 4: Evaluate stuff. As a verb, stuff usually refers to filling something with material, which does not relate to questioning suspects. Step 5: Enough is an adjective or adverb, not a verb that can directly follow to in this meaning. Step 6: Cough is a verb describing a physical reflex of the throat and has no logical link to scaring suspects into confession in this sentence. Step 7: Scoff means to mock, but ability to scoff would mean the detective mocks people, which does not clearly explain making suspects confess through fear or trickery. Step 8: Conclude that bluff is the only word that is both grammatically correct and contextually appropriate. Verification / Alternative check: Substitute bluff into the sentence. The detective ability to bluff makes it easy for him to scare suspects into confessing reads naturally and clearly implies that he pretends to have stronger evidence or knowledge. Trying to insert stuff, enough, cough, or scoff makes the sentence sound awkward or meaningless. This test reinforces that bluff is the correct option. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Stuff is wrong because it refers to filling physical objects and does not describe an interrogation skill. Enough is not a verb and cannot be used grammatically after to in this way. Cough refers to a physical action and has no realistic connection to making suspects confess in a typical investigation narrative. Scoff, while it is a verb, means to mock, and ability to scoff would suggest a rude attitude rather than a strategic method of extracting confessions. None of these meanings align with the idea of using psychological deception in questioning. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes focus only on rhyme or sound, especially when all the options share similar endings. This can tempt them to pick a word that fits the rhyme pattern but not the meaning. Another pitfall is ignoring the subject, in this case a detective, and not asking what realistic skill such a person would rely on. Always consider both grammar and real world sense when completing sentences in exam questions. Final Answer: The correct answer is bluff.

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