Question 1

Choose the one word substitution for the following description: A drug which makes a person see things that are not really there.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: One word substitution questions check whether you know precise technical terms for detailed descriptions. In this case, the description refers to a special type of drug that affects perception and causes a person to experience sights or sensations that are not actually present. Such drugs are discussed in medicine, psychology, and social studies. Given Data / Assumptions: - Description: A drug which makes one see things that are not really there. - Options: Aphrodisiac, Steroid, Carcinogen, Hallucinogen. - The key idea is creating false perceptions or hallucinations. Concept / Approach: A hallucinogen is a psychoactive drug that causes hallucinations, which are false sensory experiences such as seeing, hearing, or feeling things that do not exist in reality. The other options refer to very different types of substances with different effects. By focusing on the idea of seeing things that are not there, we can identify hallucinogen as the correct term. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the key phrase in the description: see things that are not really there. Step 2: Recall the definition of a hallucination: a perception without external stimulus. Step 3: Recognise that a hallucinogen is a drug that produces hallucinations. Step 4: Check each option: - Aphrodisiac is a substance believed to increase sexual desire. - Steroid is a class of organic compounds, often used medically or for building muscle. - Carcinogen is a substance that can cause cancer. - Hallucinogen specifically refers to drugs like LSD that cause hallucinations. Step 5: Only hallucinogen matches the description given in the question. Verification / Alternative check: Think of common examples. Substances such as LSD or certain mushrooms are known as hallucinogens because they cause users to see patterns, colours, or beings that are not actually present. In contrast, steroids are associated with hormone like effects, carcinogens with causing cancer, and aphrodisiacs with arousal. None of these categories are defined by causing visual illusions or hallucinations. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Aphrodisiac affects desire, not perception, and therefore does not fit the description. Steroid covers substances often used for medical treatment or performance enhancement but does not necessarily produce hallucinations. Carcinogen is dangerous because it may lead to cancer, not because it alters what a person sees or hears. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to confuse technical scientific terms that sound similar or are frequently mentioned in health discussions. Candidates might choose carcinogen simply because it seems serious, without matching it to the given description. To avoid this, always focus on the specific effect described: seeing things that are not really there points directly to hallucinations and therefore to hallucinogens. Final Answer: The correct one word substitution is Hallucinogen.

Question 2

Choose the one word substitution for the following description: Providing relief.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question asks you to match a short description with a precise English term. The phrase providing relief is often used in contexts involving punishment, suffering, or intense pressure. Recognising which word closely expresses the idea of relief, often temporary, is the key to choosing the correct answer. Given Data / Assumptions: - Description: Providing relief. - Options: Reissue, Reprieve, Rejoinder, Refuge. - The term is likely to be used in legal or hardship contexts. Concept / Approach: A reprieve is a postponement or temporary cancellation of a punishment, especially a death sentence, and by extension any temporary relief from pain, trouble, or difficulty. While refuge and reprieve are both connected with relief or safety, reprieve directly captures the idea of providing relief in the sense of granting a break or delay. The other options relate to reprinting, replying, or a place of safety rather than the act of providing relief. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that providing relief suggests an action that eases suffering or postpones difficulty. Step 2: Examine reprieve: it is used for postponing a sentence or giving someone temporary relief from something unpleasant. Step 3: Check reissue, which means issuing again, usually for documents or publications. Step 4: Check rejoinder, which refers to a reply or response, often sharp or witty. Step 5: Check refuge, which means a place of safety or shelter, rather than the act of granting relief. Step 6: Among these, reprieve most closely matches the idea of providing relief. Verification / Alternative check: Consider sentences such as The court granted a reprieve, giving the prisoner temporary relief from execution or The holiday was a welcome reprieve from months of hard work. In both examples, reprieve clearly means something that provides relief from stress or danger. Reissue and rejoinder cannot be substituted in these sentences, and refuge would change the meaning, since it refers more to a place than to the act. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Reissue refers to issuing something again, like a book or a policy, and has nothing to do with relief from suffering. Rejoinder is a reply, especially a sharp or witty one, and does not involve easing pain or postponing punishment. Refuge is a place of safety or shelter, not the specific act or decision that provides relief in the way a reprieve does. Common Pitfalls: Students may be tempted by refuge because it is connected to safety and protection. However, the question asks for providing relief, which points to an action rather than a location. Remember that a reprieve is often granted, providing relief, whereas a refuge is a physical or figurative place where one may go for safety. Final Answer: The correct one word substitution is Reprieve.

Question 3

Choose the one word substitution for the following description: The philosophy of putting another's welfare above one's own.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your knowledge of philosophical and ethical terminology. The description refers to a moral attitude or philosophy concerned with prioritising the welfare of others over one's own interests. Understanding such terms is useful in ethics, sociology, and general English vocabulary. Given Data / Assumptions: - Description: The philosophy of putting another's welfare above one's own. - Options: Agnosticism, Polytheism, Altruism, Iconoclasm. - The focus is on concern for others rather than belief in gods or opposition to traditions. Concept / Approach: Altruism is the principle or practice of unselfish concern for the well being of others. An altruistic person acts to benefit others, often at personal cost. The other options relate to religious belief or to opposition to established images and traditions. By matching the idea of prioritising another's welfare with these definitions, we arrive at altruism as the only suitable term. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that the description emphasises putting another person's welfare above one's own. Step 2: Recall that altruism refers to selfless concern for the good of others. Step 3: Consider agnosticism, which refers to uncertainty about the existence of God and is unrelated to selflessness. Step 4: Consider polytheism, the belief in many gods, which again has nothing to do with prioritising others. Step 5: Consider iconoclasm, which involves attacking or rejecting cherished beliefs or institutions, not caring for others above oneself. Step 6: Only altruism expresses the philosophy described in the question. Verification / Alternative check: Look at example sentences: Her decision to donate most of her income to charity is a remarkable display of altruism. This clearly shows a person putting others' needs before her own. This usage matches the description exactly. In contrast, you would never use agnosticism, polytheism, or iconoclasm in such a sentence, which confirms that they belong to different conceptual categories. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Agnosticism concerns belief about knowledge of God or the supernatural and says nothing about caring for others. Polytheism is about believing in many gods and does not describe any particular stance toward other people's welfare. Iconoclasm refers to attacking established beliefs or symbols and is not linked directly to selflessness or self sacrifice. Common Pitfalls: Learners may confuse altruism with similar sounding or equally abstract terms. To avoid this, connect altruism with the idea of alter, meaning other, and remember that it is about making others' well being a priority. Keeping simple example sentences in mind, like altruistic acts of charity, can help you recall the correct term during exams. Final Answer: The correct one word substitution is Altruism.

Question 4

In this sentence improvement question, choose the best alternative to replace the underlined part: This book is adopted to the needs of beginners.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of the difference between the verbs adopt and adapt and the correct prepositions used with them. In English, these two verbs look similar but have distinct meanings. Confusing them leads to incorrect and sometimes awkward sentences, which exam setters deliberately use for testing. Given Data / Assumptions: - Original sentence: This book is adopted to the needs of beginners. - Underlined part: is adopted to. - Options: adapted to, adapted for, adopted for, No improvement. - The sentence aims to say that the book has been made suitable for beginners. Concept / Approach: Adapt means to modify or adjust something so that it becomes suitable for a new use, condition, or audience. Adopt means to take up, accept, or start to use something as one's own, such as a policy, a child, or a method. When we say a book has been changed to suit learners, we use adapted to the needs of beginners. Therefore, the correct verb and preposition combination is adapted to. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Determine the intended meaning: the book has been adjusted to meet the needs of beginners. Step 2: Choose the verb that means to adjust or modify, which is adapt, not adopt. Step 3: Note that the standard collocation is adapt something to a purpose, a need, or a situation. Step 4: Replace adopted with adapted and retain to: adapted to the needs of beginners. Step 5: Evaluate adapted for, which is also possible but slightly less precise than adapted to the needs of. Step 6: Evaluate adopted for, which keeps the wrong verb and changes the preposition, so it still does not convey the right meaning. Step 7: No improvement cannot be correct because the original verb adopted is wrong in this context. Verification / Alternative check: Compare similar sentences: The syllabus was adapted to suit slow learners or We must adapt our methods to changing circumstances. In each case, adapt to is used when something is adjusted to fit specific needs. Adopt, by contrast, appears in sentences like The organisation adopted a new policy. It would be wrong to say the policy was adopted to the needs, because adopt does not express modification to fit needs. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Adapted for in option B is grammatically possible, as in adapted for beginners, but the more complete expression adapted to the needs of beginners in option A matches the original sentence structure better. Adopted for in option C uses the wrong verb, since the book is not being taken up but adjusted. No improvement in option D is incorrect because adopted to is not a standard collocation. Common Pitfalls: Candidates often confuse adopt and adapt because they differ by only one letter. A useful memory aid is to link adapt with adjust (both start with a), and adopt with accept (both begin with a as well but relate to taking something over). Whenever the sense is to modify for suitability, choose adapt, and use adapt to when referring to needs or conditions. Final Answer: The correct improvement is adapted to the needs of beginners.

Question 5

In this sentence improvement question, choose the best alternative if any: There are a good many tigers in this forest.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks whether you recognise standard English expressions involving quantifiers. The phrase a good many is an idiomatic way to say a fairly large number of things or people. Exam setters often offer several incorrect variations to see if candidates will change a perfectly correct phrase. Given Data / Assumptions: - Original sentence: There are a good many tigers in this forest. - Underlined structure: a good many tigers. - Options: some good many tigers, the good many tigers, an good many tigers, No improvement. - The meaning is that this forest has quite a large number of tigers. Concept / Approach: The expression a good many is a fixed phrase in English meaning quite a large number. It is always used with a plural noun and begins with the article a, not an, and not combined with some or the. Because the original sentence uses this expression correctly, no change is required, and the best choice is No improvement. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise a good many as an idiomatic quantifier meaning a fairly large number. Step 2: Check that it is followed by a plural countable noun: tigers, which is correct. Step 3: Evaluate some good many tigers, which is unidiomatic and awkward; some and a good many do not combine. Step 4: Evaluate the good many tigers, which wrongly uses the definite article the and changes the meaning. Step 5: Evaluate an good many tigers, which is grammatically incorrect because an is used before vowel sounds and good begins with a consonant sound. Step 6: Since none of the suggested changes improve the sentence, choose No improvement. Verification / Alternative check: Observe other examples: A good many people attended the meeting or She has a good many books on the subject. In each case, a good many plus plural noun expresses a significantly large number. If we tried to say some good many or the good many, the phrases would sound unnatural and would not be found in standard writing. This comparison confirms that the original sentence is already correct. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Some good many tigers in option A is not a standard English expression and sounds redundant. The good many tigers in option B incorrectly uses the definite article and is not idiomatic. An good many tigers in option C is grammatically wrong because an cannot precede a consonant sound and the phrase is unidiomatic. Common Pitfalls: Many candidates assume that a sentence in an error spotting or improvement question must contain an error, so they avoid No improvement even when the original is correct. It is important to evaluate each option objectively and choose No improvement when the sentence already follows standard usage. Memorising common phrases like a good many, a great many, and a good deal of will help you avoid unnecessary changes. Final Answer: The sentence is already correct, so the best choice is No improvement.

Question 6

In this sentence improvement question, choose the best alternative to replace the underlined preposition: London is one of the oldest towns of England.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of prepositions used to show location in relation to countries and regions. When we talk about a city as belonging to or located inside a country, English prefers the preposition in rather than of. Exam questions often focus on this difference because many learners carry over patterns from their native language. Given Data / Assumptions: - Original sentence: London is one of the oldest towns of England. - Underlined preposition: of. - Options: in, at, besides, No improvement. - The intended meaning is that London is among the oldest towns located within England. Concept / Approach: The correct structure to express this idea is one of the oldest towns in England. We usually say in a country or in a region when we talk about geographical location. The preposition of is sometimes used with phrases like the capital of England, but that structure is different. Therefore, we must replace of with in to make the sentence grammatically and idiomatically correct. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the phrase of England is attached to towns and describes where the towns are located. Step 2: Recall that for geographical location we use in: cities in India, villages in France. Step 3: Replace of with in to form one of the oldest towns in England. Step 4: Examine at, which is used for specific points or addresses, not for belonging to a country. Step 5: Examine besides, which means in addition to and does not fit the sentence at all. Step 6: No improvement cannot be chosen because of England is not the standard phrase here. Verification / Alternative check: Compare with other correct sentences: Paris is one of the largest cities in Europe or Jaipur is one of the most famous cities in Rajasthan. In each case, in is used to show that the city is a member of the group defined by the region. Using of in these examples would sound unusual or incorrect. In the same way, towns in England is the natural expression, confirming that in is the correct choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: At in option B is used for specific locations (at the station, at the corner) rather than grouping towns within a country. Besides in option C means in addition to and does not express location or membership in a set. No improvement in option D is incorrect because of England is not the idiomatic preposition choice in this context. Common Pitfalls: Learners sometimes overuse of when talking about relationships, especially because phrases like the capital of England are correct. To avoid confusion, remember that when you list one item among many within a country or region, you normally say in that country or region. Keeping examples like one of the best schools in the city in mind will help you choose the correct preposition quickly. Final Answer: The correct sentence is London is one of the oldest towns in England, so the answer is in.

Question 7

In this sentence improvement question, choose the best alternative if any: You will be late if you do not leave now.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your knowledge of basic conditional sentence patterns. In English, the first conditional is used to talk about real and possible future situations. It follows the pattern If plus present simple in the condition clause and will plus verb in the main clause. Recognising this pattern helps you see whether a sentence is already correct or needs improvement. Given Data / Assumptions: - Original sentence: You will be late if you do not leave now. - Underlined structure is the whole sentence. - Options include variations of the verb in the if clause. - The intended meaning is a warning about a possible future result. Concept / Approach: The correct first conditional structure is: If you do not leave now, you will be late. The sentence in the question simply reverses the order of clauses, which is also acceptable: You will be late if you do not leave now. Both orders are grammatically correct and common in everyday English. Therefore, the original sentence is already correct and does not need any change. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the two parts of the condition: You will be late (result clause) and if you do not leave now (if clause). Step 2: Check the tense in the if clause: do not leave is present simple, which is correct for a real future condition. Step 3: Check the tense in the main clause: will be late, which is correct for the future result. Step 4: Confirm that the overall pattern matches the first conditional structure. Step 5: Evaluate the suggested changes and see that none improves the sentence. Step 6: Therefore, choose No improvement. Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite the sentence with the if clause first: If you do not leave now, you will be late. This is a textbook example of a first conditional. If we replace do not leave with left (as in if you left now, you would not be late), the meaning changes to a different conditional pattern. The original, however, expresses a real future possibility based on a present decision, so the first conditional is appropriate and correctly used. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Will not leave now in option A produces if you will not leave now, which is not standard in this context. Did not leave now in option B mixes past tense with now, creating a tense clash. Left now in option C suggests a different conditional structure and changes the meaning of the sentence. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes think that every sentence in a grammar question must contain an error. This leads them to modify correct conditionals unnecessarily. To avoid this, always check whether the existing pattern fits one of the standard conditional structures. If it does and the meaning is clear, it is often safest to choose No improvement. Final Answer: The sentence is already correct, so the best choice is No improvement.

Question 8

In this sentence improvement question, choose the best alternative to replace the underlined verb: People ask me why I decide to start a new magazine.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of tense consistency in reported speech and explanations of decisions. When describing a decision that has already been made and still has relevance at the present moment, English commonly uses the present perfect tense have decided. Combining this correctly with the present tense ask is important for natural sounding English. Given Data / Assumptions: - Original sentence: People ask me why I decide to start a new magazine. - Underlined verb phrase: I decide. - Options: will decide, am deciding, have decided, No improvement. - The intended meaning is that people ask about a decision that has already been taken. Concept / Approach: The verb ask is in the simple present, indicating a general or repeated action in the present. The decision to start a new magazine is a completed action whose effects continue in the present. For such a past decision with present relevance, English prefers the present perfect have decided. The simple present decide suggests a habit or repeated action, which does not fit the context of one specific decision. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that people ask me is in the present simple, meaning they ask now or repeatedly. Step 2: Interpret the clause why I decide to start a new magazine. It refers to a particular decision already made. Step 3: Recognise that the correct tense for such a decision is present perfect: I have decided. Step 4: Replace decide with have decided to obtain why I have decided to start a new magazine. Step 5: Check other options: - Will decide suggests a future decision, not one already taken. - Am deciding suggests the process is still going on, which does not match the idea of having started a new magazine. - No improvement would keep an unnatural use of simple present. Verification / Alternative check: Think of typical explanations: People often ask me why I have decided to move abroad. Here, have decided clearly indicates a decision recently made that people are reacting to now. If we used decide, it would suggest that the speaker is making this decision repeatedly, which would be illogical. By the same reasoning, have decided is the correct tense for the magazine example. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Will decide in option A indicates a future decision, which does not fit the description of people already asking about it. Am deciding in option B describes an ongoing process, implying the decision has not been finalised, which contradicts the idea of starting a new magazine. No improvement in option D is not acceptable because the simple present decide is not the natural tense here. Common Pitfalls: Learners sometimes overuse the simple present when they see another present tense in the sentence. They may think that present plus present always agrees. However, English often uses present perfect to talk about past actions with present effects. To avoid mistakes, pay attention to whether the action is completed and whether people are reacting to its result now. Final Answer: The correct improvement is have decided, giving People ask me why I have decided to start a new magazine.

Question 9

According to the passage, learning is defined as _____.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question is based on a reading comprehension passage that offers a specific and somewhat unusual definition of learning. Instead of giving a general dictionary meaning, the author explains learning in a narrow sense, contrasting it with everyday knowledge that people gain directly from experience. To answer correctly, you must pay close attention to the exact wording used in the passage. Given Data / Assumptions: - The passage contrasts learning with everyday knowledge about things before us and around us. - It states that learning is a special kind of knowledge not generally known to others. - Options paraphrase different parts of the passage. - The task is to select the definition that matches the author's wording most closely. Concept / Approach: The passage begins by saying that learning is the knowledge of that which is not generally known to others and which we can only derive from books or other artificial sources. It also says that the knowledge of what is before us, about us, and connected with daily life is not learning. Therefore the correct answer must capture the idea of knowledge that is unusual, specialised, and not commonly possessed by ordinary people. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the key sentence from the passage: Learning is the knowledge of that which is not generally known to others. Step 2: Compare this with the given options. Step 3: Option A, the knowledge of that which is before us, directly contradicts the passage, which states that such knowledge is not learning. Step 4: Option B, the knowledge about us, is vague and does not match any specific phrase in the text. Step 5: Option C, the knowledge of that which is not generally known to others, is an almost exact reproduction of the passage’s definition. Step 6: Option D, the knowledge related to the businesses of men, again refers to practical, everyday affairs which the author excludes from learning. Step 7: Therefore, Option C is the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Read again the part where the author contrasts two types of knowledge. He clearly separates common, practical knowledge from learning and emphasises that learning consists of what none but the learned know. This reinforces that the phrase not generally known to others is central to the author's concept. The additional mention of books and artificial sources supports the idea of specialised, secondhand knowledge rather than direct experience. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A is wrong because the author explicitly states that the knowledge of that which is before us is not learning. Option B is too general and does not reflect the passage's emphasis on uncommon knowledge. Option D speaks of the businesses of men, which the passage again uses as an example of knowledge that is not learning. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake in reading comprehension is selecting an option that sounds reasonable in general, rather than the one that matches the passage exactly. Here, it is tempting to choose a definition that seems like normal dictionary meaning, but the question asks you to follow the author's special usage. Always focus on the precise wording of the passage, especially phrases that are repeated or emphasised. Final Answer: According to the passage, learning is defined as the knowledge of that which is not generally known to others.

Question 10

According to the passage, a learned man, as described, ____.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This reading comprehension question asks you to interpret how the author describes a learned man in the passage. The writer draws a sharp contrast between abstract book knowledge and practical awareness of people and real life. Understanding this contrast is crucial for choosing the correct option. Given Data / Assumptions: - The passage describes a learned man who knows a lot about names, dates, and distant places. - It also states that he cares nothing about his neighbours and knows little about real people and things around him. - Options summarise different possible interpretations of this description. Concept / Approach: The passage clearly criticises the learned man for ignoring concrete reality. It says he prides himself in knowledge of names and dates, not of men or things. It adds that he thinks and cares nothing about his nextdoor neighbours. Therefore, the correct answer must reflect his lack of concern for real people and real objects, not the opposite. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the sentence that says the learned man prides himself in the knowledge of names and dates, not of men or things. Step 2: Note another line: He thinks and cares nothing about his nextdoor neighbours. Step 3: Recognise that the author is emphasising the man's indifference to actual people and concrete reality. Step 4: Examine the options: - Option A claims he cares about men and things, which is the opposite of what the passage says. - Option B states that he does not care about men and things, matching the passage directly. - Option C claims he cares about the shapes of objects, which is not supported by the text. - Option D says he cares about his neighbours, again contradicting the statement that he cares nothing about them. Step 5: Therefore, Option B is the correct choice. Verification / Alternative check: Re reading key lines, you find that the writer mentions knowledge of tribes, castes, and distant cities, but criticises the learned man for not knowing or caring about people close to him. The expression not of men or things is strong and direct. This leaves no room for interpreting the learned man as caring about men and things; instead it confirms his ignorance and indifference toward them. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A reverses the author's criticism and therefore cannot be correct. Option C introduces shapes of objects, which the passage does not mention as a concern for the learned man. Option D is directly contradicted by the statement that he thinks and cares nothing about his nextdoor neighbours. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes misread the passage and assume that a learned man must, by definition, care about men and things. However, comprehension questions often present a slightly ironic or critical view. Always rely on the exact statements in the text, even if they conflict with your expectations. In this case, the author is criticising a narrow type of learning by showing how disconnected such a man is from real life. Final Answer: According to the passage, a learned man, as described, does not care about men and things.

Question 11

The passage suggests that a learned man ____.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question builds on the same passage about learning and the so called learned man. The author highlights how this person knows many abstract facts but lacks understanding of real people around him. One sentence in particular mentions his oldest acquaintance, which directly supports one of the answer options. Given Data / Assumptions: - The passage says that the learned man can talk about many historical characters but does not know basic things about people close to him. - It specifically states that he does not know whether his oldest acquaintance is a knave or a fool. - Options summarise possible features of such a man. Concept / Approach: The key idea is the contrast between his vast book knowledge and his ignorance of real people. The sentence about his oldest acquaintance shows that he has not judged or understood that person's character, even after knowing him for a long time. This supports the statement that he does not know his old acquaintances in any meaningful way. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the line: He does not know whether his oldest acquaintance is a knave or a fool. Step 2: Understand that this means he has no clear understanding of his acquaintance's character. Step 3: Examine the options: - Option A claims he understands his neighbours, which contradicts the passage stating he thinks and cares nothing about them. - Option B says he does not know his old acquaintances, which matches the example about the oldest acquaintance. - Option C claims he is not concerned about names and dates, but the passage says he prides himself on knowledge of names and dates. - Option D suggests he is interested in travelling, an idea that the passage does not discuss at all. Step 4: Therefore, Option B correctly reflects the passage. Verification / Alternative check: When you re read the relevant lines, you see a pattern: the learned man knows dimensions of distant cities, tribes and castes of foreign peoples, and historical personalities. However, he does not know basic qualities of those physically close to him. The example of his oldest acquaintance is meant to be striking, showing that years of contact have not led to real understanding. This strongly supports Option B. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A is wrong because the passage states explicitly that he thinks and cares nothing about his nextdoor neighbours. Option C contradicts the line that he prides himself in the knowledge of names and dates. Option D introduces travelling, which the passage neither supports nor mentions. Common Pitfalls: Candidates sometimes project their own assumptions about what a learned man should be like, instead of focusing on what the author actually says. This can lead them to choose answers that sound positive or logical rather than those that reflect the passage. Always base your answer on explicit statements or clear implications in the text, especially when the author is being ironic or critical. Final Answer: The passage suggests that a learned man does not know his old acquaintances in any real sense.

Question 12

In this error spotting question, identify the part of the sentence that contains an error: Several great battles took place among the British and the Americans.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Error spotting questions often focus on correct use of prepositions, especially with words like between and among. English distinguishes between relationships involving two clearly defined groups and those involving more than two entities. Using the wrong preposition can make a sentence sound incorrect, even if the rest of the grammar is fine. Given Data / Assumptions: - Full sentence: Several great battles took place among the British and the Americans. - Part (1): Several great battles. - Part (2): took place among. - Part (3): the British and the Americans. - Part (4): No Error. Concept / Approach: In standard English, between is used when we are talking about two people, groups, or things. Among is used when referring to more than two or to an undefined group. Since the sentence mentions exactly two parties, the British and the Americans, the correct preposition is between, not among. Therefore, the error lies in the part containing among. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the two sides involved in the battles: the British and the Americans. Step 2: Recall the rule: between is used with two distinct parties, among with more than two. Step 3: Replace among with between to get Several great battles took place between the British and the Americans. Step 4: Check each part for additional errors: - Several great battles is correctly formed. - Took place is an appropriate verb phrase for events happening. - The British and the Americans correctly names the two groups. Step 5: Conclude that only part (2), containing among, is incorrect. Verification / Alternative check: Compare with examples: The agreement was signed between the company and the union or There was a dispute between the two neighbours. In both cases, between is used because only two parties are involved. We would use among in sentences like There was much discussion among the members of the committee, where more than two participants are implied. This comparison confirms that between is required in the battle sentence. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Part (1) Several great battles correctly uses plural form and adjective. Part (3) the British and the Americans is grammatically and semantically correct. Part (4) No Error is wrong because we have identified an error in part (2). Common Pitfalls: Some learners believe that between is only for two individuals, not for two groups or nations, and may therefore choose among out of habit. Others think between is informal and among more formal. In fact, the rule applies to the number of parties, regardless of whether they are individuals or groups. Remember: two parties, use between; more than two, generally use among. Final Answer: The error is in part (2); among should be replaced by between.

Question 13

In this error spotting question, identify the part of the sentence that contains an error: The stream gurgled contentedly as it slowed to rounding the bend.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of correct non finite verb forms (infinitives and gerunds) after verbs like slow. The sentence uses slowed to rounding, which sounds awkward and is not a standard pattern in English. You must identify which part of the sentence contains this error and understand how to correct it. Given Data / Assumptions: - Full sentence: The stream gurgled contentedly as it slowed to rounding the bend. - Part (1): The stream gurgled. - Part (2): contentedly as it. - Part (3): slowed to rounding the bend. - Part (4): No Error. Concept / Approach: The verb slow is typically followed either by an infinitive (to plus base verb) indicating purpose or result, such as slowed to stop, or by a preposition plus gerund, such as slowed before rounding the bend. The combination slowed to rounding is incorrect because it mixes the infinitive marker to with a gerund form rounding improperly. The error therefore lies in part (3). Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on the phrase slowed to rounding the bend in part (3). Step 2: Recognise that to is usually followed by a base verb to form an infinitive, as in to round, not by a gerund. Step 3: Consider correct alternatives: slowed to round the bend or slowed before rounding the bend. Step 4: See that slowed to rounding combines to with a gerund, which does not match standard patterns. Step 5: Confirm that parts (1) and (2) are grammatically correct: The stream gurgled contentedly as it is a natural start to the sentence. Step 6: Conclude that the error is entirely located in part (3). Verification / Alternative check: Rephrase the sentence correctly: The stream gurgled contentedly as it slowed before rounding the bend. This version uses before plus gerund rounding, which is a standard pattern. Alternatively, you could write as it slowed to round the bend, using an infinitive. Both are acceptable. Slowed to rounding, however, does not fit either pattern and sounds unnatural, confirming that part (3) is wrong. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Part (1) The stream gurgled is a correct past tense clause describing the stream's sound. Part (2) contentedly as it logically and grammatically continues the sentence. Part (4) No Error cannot be chosen because there is a clear verb form problem in part (3). Common Pitfalls: Some students may overlook this kind of subtle error because the overall meaning of the sentence is understandable. Others may think any use of to plus ing is acceptable, confusing it with structures like be used to doing. In this sentence, however, to is an infinitive marker, not a preposition, so it must be followed by the base form of the verb. Remember to distinguish between to as a preposition (followed by a noun or gerund) and to as part of the infinitive (followed by base verb). Final Answer: The error is in part (3); the phrase slowed to rounding the bend is incorrect.

Question 14

Fill in the blank with the correct word: The criminal changed his name to an ___________ in order to elude the police.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question tests whether you know the specific term used for a false or assumed name. In crime stories, legal contexts, and news reports, it is common to describe how criminals hide their identity by adopting another name. Recognising the word alias will help you understand such texts easily. Given Data / Assumptions: - Sentence: The criminal changed his name to an ___________ in order to elude the police. - Options: alternative, alias, option, untrue. - The context is a criminal trying to avoid capture by the police. - The missing word must mean a false or assumed name. Concept / Approach: An alias is a name that a person uses instead of his or her real name, especially to hide identity. It is often used in legal documents and police reports. Alternative and option are general words for choice, and untrue is an adjective meaning not true. None of these capture the idea of a false name itself. Therefore, alias is the only option that fits both the meaning and the grammar of the sentence. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the key idea: changing one's name to avoid the police. Step 2: Recall that alias is the term used for a false or assumed name, especially in police and legal contexts. Step 3: Insert alias into the sentence: changed his name to an alias. Step 4: Check the grammar: alias is a countable noun, so an alias is correct. Step 5: Test the other options: - Alternative means another possibility or choice, not specifically a false name. - Option also means a choice and does not refer to identity. - Untrue is an adjective and cannot properly follow the article an in this context. Step 6: Confirm that only alias satisfies both meaning and structure. Verification / Alternative check: Consider typical uses of alias: The criminal, known by the alias John Smith, escaped custody or He travelled under an alias to avoid detection. In both cases, alias clearly denotes a false name used for concealment. Replacing alias with alternative or option would make these sentences meaningless. This confirms that alias is the correct answer for the given sentence as well. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Alternative in option A describes a different choice in general, for example an alternative route, but not specifically a false identity. Option in option C is similarly a general term for a choice, not a name. Untrue in option D is an adjective meaning not correct or false, and it does not function as a noun meaning false name. Common Pitfalls: Candidates may be tempted by alternative or option because they suggest change or choice. However, the key hint is the presence of the police and the criminal changing his name to elude capture. This clearly points to a specialised legal term. Remembering that alias is frequently used in police reports and crime stories will help you avoid confusion. Final Answer: The correct word is alias, giving The criminal changed his name to an alias in order to elude the police.

Question 15

Complete the sentence by selecting the most appropriate word to fill the blank: The __________ my husband and I had was so loud that it woke our children from their sleep.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of vocabulary in context, especially nouns that describe types of events. In real examinations, fill in the blank questions like this check whether you can choose a word that fits both the meaning and the grammar of the sentence. The sentence describes a loud event between a husband and wife that even woke their children, so the correct word should naturally suggest an argument or conflict between them. Given Data / Assumptions: - The sentence is: The __________ my husband and I had was so loud that it woke our children from their sleep. - The missing word is a noun that must fit in both sense and grammar. - The context is a loud event between two people that disturbs children. - We assume standard modern English usage and meanings of quarrel, coral, moral, and laurel. Concept / Approach: To solve vocabulary in context questions, you must focus on two things: meaning and collocation (how words usually combine in natural English). The phrase “my husband and I had” suggests an action or interaction between the two, and “was so loud it woke our children” suggests a noisy disagreement. The common collocation in English is “have a quarrel” or “have a fight” with someone. The other options either have unrelated meanings or do not fit this everyday expression. Step-by-Step Solution: 1. Read the entire sentence and understand the situation being described: a loud event between spouses that woke their children. 2. Identify the grammatical role of the missing word; it is a singular countable noun after “The”. 3. Check each option for meaning: “quarrel” means an argument or dispute, “coral” is sea life or a color, “moral” is a principle of right and wrong, and “laurel” is a type of plant or symbolic honor. 4. Notice that only “quarrel” describes a loud argument that two people can “have”. 5. Confirm the natural collocation: native speakers say “have a quarrel with someone”. Verification / Alternative check: You can replace the blank with each option and read the sentence aloud: “The quarrel my husband and I had was so loud…”, “The coral my husband and I had…”, and so on. Only “quarrel” produces a meaningful, realistic sentence in everyday life. This quick substitution method is a powerful way to check your answer in exam conditions when several options look similar at first glance. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Coral: Refers to marine organisms or a color. It cannot describe a loud event between two people. - Moral: Refers to ethical principles or a lesson from a story. It does not fit the idea of a noisy disagreement. - Laurel: Means a plant or a symbol of honor and victory. It is not used for arguments between people. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes choose words that “sound” similar or familiar without checking the meaning carefully. English also has many homophones and near homophones, so focusing only on sound can mislead you. Another mistake is to ignore the phrase “my husband and I had”, which clearly indicates a shared activity or interaction like an argument. Always read the full sentence, identify the situation, and then evaluate each option logically rather than guessing by instinct alone. Final Answer: The most appropriate word to complete the sentence is quarrel.

Question 16

In the following question, select the word that is most similar in meaning to the given word: Litter.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question asks you to select the word that is closest in meaning to “litter”. Such synonym questions are common in competitive examinations and help to test your understanding of nuanced word meanings in English. Knowing the exact sense of “litter” in everyday language will guide you to the correct option, while eliminating those that are associated with entirely different ideas like organization or ownership. Given Data / Assumptions: - Given word: “Litter”. - Options: Trash, Order, Possess, System. - We are asked to choose the word similar in meaning, that is, a near synonym. - We assume the common modern meaning of “litter” related to rubbish and untidiness. Concept / Approach: The word “litter” in everyday English most often refers to rubbish that has been thrown in public places, making them dirty. For example, “There is litter on the street.” While “litter” also has other meanings in specific contexts (such as a litter of puppies), exam questions usually focus on the most frequent and relevant sense. To choose the correct synonym, you must match this meaning with the option that also refers to rubbish or waste material scattered about carelessly. Step-by-Step Solution: 1. Recall the primary meaning of “litter” as scattered rubbish or waste. 2. Examine each option carefully: - Trash: unwanted waste material or rubbish. - Order: a state in which everything is arranged properly. - Possess: to own something. - System: a set of connected things forming a complex whole. 3. Compare meanings: only “Trash” directly corresponds to rubbish or waste. 4. Confirm that “litter” and “trash” can often be used in similar contexts, such as “Pick up the litter” or “Pick up the trash”. Verification / Alternative check: Think of sample sentences: “The park was full of litter” can be rephrased as “The park was full of trash.” The meaning remains the same, which shows a strong synonym relationship. On the other hand, replacing “litter” with “order”, “possess”, or “system” creates incorrect or unnatural sentences, confirming that these options do not share the same meaning. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Order: Refers to neatness or arrangement, which is the opposite of an area full of litter. - Possess: Means to own something and is a verb, not a noun describing waste. - System: Refers to an organized set or structure and has no connection with rubbish. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to focus on the emotional tone of the word rather than its precise definition. Some students may also confuse “litter” with more unusual meanings, such as a type of carrying bed or a group of newborn animals, but the presence of options like “Trash” indicates that the rubbish meaning is tested. Always check which sense of the word matches the options given and select the one that can be swapped into many typical sentences without changing the basic idea. Final Answer: The word similar in meaning to “Litter” is Trash.

Question 17

In the following question, select the word that is most similar in meaning to the given word: Obliterate.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks your understanding of advanced vocabulary. The word “obliterate” is often used in serious or formal contexts, especially in news reports, science writing, and literature. It describes a very strong action related to destruction or removal. Being able to link “obliterate” with its correct synonym helps you read complex texts with better accuracy and answer vocabulary questions with confidence in competitive exams. Given Data / Assumptions: - Target word: “Obliterate”. - Options: Construct, Annihilate, Revive, Initiate. - Task: Choose the option that has the closest meaning to “Obliterate”. - We assume the standard dictionary meaning of “obliterate” as used in modern English. Concept / Approach: “Obliterate” means to destroy something completely so that nothing remains, or to erase it so thoroughly that it is as if it never existed. For example, “The town was obliterated by the explosion” or “The writing was obliterated by heavy rain.” Therefore, the correct synonym should express complete destruction or wiping out. The other options talk about building, beginning, or bringing something back to life, which are conceptually opposite to destruction. Step-by-Step Solution: 1. Recall the meaning of “obliterate” as total destruction or removal. 2. Examine each option: - Construct: to build or put together. - Annihilate: to destroy completely or wipe out. - Revive: to bring back to life or restore. - Initiate: to start or begin something. 3. Compare these meanings with “obliterate”. Only “Annihilate” carries the sense of complete destruction. 4. Confirm by substituting in sentences: “The army obliterated the enemy” is very close to “The army annihilated the enemy”. Verification / Alternative check: Try a quick test using context: imagine an old manuscript. If heavy water damage “obliterates” the text, it means you cannot read it any more. Saying that the water “constructed” or “initiated” the text makes no sense, and “revived” also contradicts the idea of destruction. This mental image proves that “Annihilate” matches the intensity and direction of “obliterate”. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Construct: This is the opposite of destroy; it means to build up, not to wipe out. - Revive: Means to bring something back to life or restore its strength, which contradicts complete destruction. - Initiate: Refers to beginning an action or process, and has nothing to do with erasing or destroying something. Common Pitfalls: Sometimes learners confuse “obliterate” with weaker words like “damage” or “spoil.” However, “obliterate” is much stronger and implies that the original object or mark is gone beyond recognition. Another pitfall is not paying attention to the intensity of synonyms. In exams, options may include words with related meanings but different strengths, so always ask yourself whether the word expresses mild, moderate, or complete action. In this question, “Annihilate” matches the extreme force of “obliterate”. Final Answer: The word similar in meaning to “Obliterate” is Annihilate.

Question 18

In the following question, select the word that is opposite in meaning to the given word: Scrimp.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your knowledge of antonyms, which are words with opposite meanings. Understanding the word “scrimp” and then identifying a word that expresses the opposite idea is essential for success in verbal ability sections. Such questions also help you to better interpret texts that deal with money management, saving, and spending habits by recognizing the nuances of these verbs. Given Data / Assumptions: - Given word: “Scrimp”. - Options: Skimp, Conserve, Squander, Curtail. - Task: Choose the word that has the opposite meaning. - We assume common financial and everyday usage of these words. Concept / Approach: “Scrimp” means to be very economical or stingy, often saving or spending very little, sometimes to an uncomfortable degree. For example, “They scrimped and saved to pay for their education.” An antonym must therefore suggest spending freely or wasting resources instead of saving them. Among the options, one needs to represent generous or careless expenditure of money or resources, which directly opposes the idea of strict economy and saving. Step-by-Step Solution: 1. Recall the meaning of “scrimp”: to economize severely, to use very little, or to be stingy with money or resources. 2. Evaluate each option: - Skimp: to use less of something than is needed, very similar to scrimp. - Conserve: to save, protect, or use carefully. - Squander: to waste something, especially money or time, in a careless way. - Curtail: to reduce or cut down. 3. Notice that scrimp, skimp, conserve, and curtail all involve limiting or saving, while “Squander” means the opposite: to waste and overspend. 4. Therefore, “Squander” is the true antonym of “Scrimp”. Verification / Alternative check: Create contrasting sentences to verify. “He scrimps on food to save money” implies he spends very little. The opposite situation would be “He squanders money on expensive, unnecessary food,” where he spends lavishly and wastes resources. Both sentences clearly represent opposite attitudes toward money, confirming that “Squander” is the correct antonym. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Skimp: Very close in meaning to “scrimp”; both suggest using too little or economizing excessively, not opposites. - Conserve: Means to save or protect resources, which is again similar to scrimping, not opposite. - Curtail: Means to reduce or cut short. It still involves limitation and is therefore closer to scrimping than to wasting. Common Pitfalls: A frequent mistake is to choose a near synonym instead of a true opposite because some options “sound right” or look familiar. Words like scrimp and skimp are particularly tricky because they are similar in both form and meaning. Another pitfall is not fully understanding the nuance of “squander” as careless and excessive waste. To avoid confusion, always ask whether the option reverses the meaning of the original word rather than slightly modifying it. Final Answer: The word opposite in meaning to “Scrimp” is Squander.

Question 19

In the following question, select the word that is opposite in meaning to the given word: Guzzle.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question focuses on antonyms related to eating and drinking behaviour. The word “guzzle” is often used in informal English to describe someone who consumes food or especially drink in a fast, greedy, and often excessive way. To find the correct antonym, you must think of a word that expresses the opposite situation, where someone takes in no food or drink at all or suffers from a lack of it. Given Data / Assumptions: - Given word: “Guzzle”. - Options: Carouse, Starve, Imbibe, Quaff. - Objective: Choose the option that has the opposite meaning. - We assume the usual informal meaning of “guzzle” in everyday English. Concept / Approach: “Guzzle” means to drink or sometimes eat something greedily and in large quantities, often quickly. It suggests excess and lack of restraint. Therefore, an antonym should show the complete absence of eating or drinking, or a state of deprivation instead of abundance. A person who is guzzling has more than enough and is consuming it rapidly, whereas a person who is starving lacks sufficient food and may not be eating at all. Step-by-Step Solution: 1. Fix the meaning of “guzzle” in your mind: to swallow food or drink greedily in large amounts. 2. Examine each option: - Carouse: to drink alcohol and enjoy oneself in a noisy, lively way. - Starve: to suffer or die from extreme hunger or lack of food. - Imbibe: to drink, especially alcohol. - Quaff: to drink something, especially an alcoholic beverage, with enthusiasm. 3. Notice that Carouse, Imbibe, and Quaff all involve drinking, often in generous amounts, similar in direction to “guzzle”. 4. “Starve” however means having too little or no food, which is the direct opposite of consuming too much. Verification / Alternative check: Imagine two contrasting situations: in one, someone guzzles bottles of soda at a party; in the other, someone is starving because they have not eaten for days. These describe opposite extremes of consumption: excess versus extreme lack. Such mental images can help confirm that “Starve” is the correct antonym. The other options still involve drinking or celebration, which align more with the idea of guzzling than oppose it. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Carouse: Involves heavy drinking and merrymaking, which is conceptually close to guzzling, not opposite. - Imbibe: Means simply to drink, especially alcohol, and does not give the idea of complete absence of food or drink. - Quaff: Means to drink deeply or with enjoyment, often a large amount, again similar to guzzling. Common Pitfalls: One common error is to choose words associated with drinking just because “guzzle” often refers to drink. However, antonym questions require you to identify the contrast in meaning, not just the same topic. Another pitfall is ignoring the intensity: “guzzle” implies heavy, greedy consumption, so its opposite must imply scarcity or no consumption at all, which “Starve” expresses very clearly. Final Answer: The word opposite in meaning to “Guzzle” is Starve.

Question 20

In the following question, select the alternative which best expresses the meaning of the idiom “to heave a sigh of relief”.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Idioms are fixed expressions whose meanings cannot always be guessed from the individual words. “To heave a sigh of relief” is a very common idiom in spoken and written English. Competitive exams frequently test idioms because they reveal how well a candidate understands natural English usage rather than just literal dictionary definitions. Here, the focus is on recognising the emotional state expressed when a person heaves a sigh of relief. Given Data / Assumptions: - Idiom: “To heave a sigh of relief”. - Options describe different emotional reactions. - We assume knowledge of the physical act of sighing and its connection with emotions. - The task is to choose the option that captures the overall idea of this idiom in natural English. Concept / Approach: A “sigh” is a long, deep breath that people often give when they are tired, sad, worried, or relieved. A “sigh of relief” specifically appears when someone has been anxious about a possible bad outcome, and then discovers that the danger has passed or the problem is solved. The verb “to heave” emphasises the physical effort of letting out this breath. So, the idiom refers to the sudden feeling of happiness and relaxation when something unpleasant does not happen or has finally ended. Step-by-Step Solution: 1. Identify the key emotional word in the idiom: “relief”. It suggests the end of fear, tension, or worry. 2. Remember typical situations: a student who passes an exam after much worry, or a patient who hears that test results are normal. 3. Evaluate each option: - Option A: talks about becoming very tired with routine work; this is unrelated to relief. - Option B: mentions feeling very happy because something unpleasant has not happened or has ended, which matches relief exactly. - Option C: refers to extreme sadness over someone else's misfortune, which is sympathy, not relief. - Option D: refers to silent anger over injustice, which describes resentment, not relief. 4. Conclude that option B captures both the end of danger and the pleasant emotional release. Verification / Alternative check: Imagine a simple scenario: you think you have lost your wallet, but then you find it in your bag. You would heave a sigh of relief because your fear disappears. You are not tired, resentful, or sad about someone else; you are suddenly relaxed and happy that a bad event did not occur. This mental picture strongly supports option B as the correct interpretation of the idiom. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Option A: Describes boredom and fatigue, but relief is about a positive shift after anxiety, not about being tired. - Option C: Describes compassion or sorrow for others, which is unrelated to feeling relieved about your own situation. - Option D: Describes quiet anger or bitterness, which is the opposite emotional tone of relief. Common Pitfalls: Students may focus only on the word “sigh” and associate it with sadness, ignoring the crucial phrase “of relief.” Another common misunderstanding is thinking the idiom refers to physical tiredness, but in context it always involves the end of worry or fear. To avoid errors, always read the entire idiom and look for key emotional words like “relief,” “joy,” or “rage” that guide you toward the correct meaning. Final Answer: The idiom “to heave a sigh of relief” means to suddenly feel very happy because something unpleasant has not happened or has ended.

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