Question 1

In the following sentence, fill in the blank with the most appropriate word: "The professor _______________ over just one point for a full two hours."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary and usage question asks you to choose the verb that best fits the sentence: "The professor _______________ over just one point for a full two hours." The key is to understand the meaning suggested by "over just one point" and the duration of "a full two hours". This hints at careful, extended consideration of a particular issue. Given Data / Assumptions: Subject: "The professor". Object phrase: "over just one point". Time expression: "for a full two hours". Options: "deliberated", "mentioned", "conversed", "stated", "argued". We assume the professor was thinking or talking about that one point for a long period. Concept / Approach: The verb must combine naturally with the preposition "over" and express prolonged thinking or discussion about a single issue. "Deliberate over" means to think carefully or discuss thoroughly before reaching a decision. It is often used for extended, serious consideration. This matches both "over one point" and "for a full two hours". The other verbs either do not typically take "over" in this sense or do not imply lengthy, careful consideration. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on the phrase "over just one point" and note that verbs like "deliberate over" or "argue over" are possible collocations.Step 2: Consider the time span "for a full two hours", which implies sustained effort rather than a brief action like "mention" or "state".Step 3: "Deliberated over" means thought about and discussed carefully, fitting both the preposition and the time frame.Step 4: "Argued over" would suggest conflict with someone else, but the sentence does not mention any opponent or debate.Step 5: Therefore, "deliberated" is the most appropriate choice, giving "The professor deliberated over just one point for a full two hours." Verification / Alternative check: Read the full sentence after inserting "deliberated": "The professor deliberated over just one point for a full two hours." This sounds natural and clearly conveys that the professor spent a long time analysing or discussing that single point. If you replace it with "mentioned", the sentence becomes illogical: "mentioned over just one point" is not a standard phrase and does not justify two full hours. "Conversed over" and "stated over" are also unnatural collocations. Why Other Options Are Wrong: mentioned: Means "referred to briefly", which contradicts the idea of spending "a full two hours" on one point. conversed: We say "conversed with someone", not "conversed over one point"; the preposition and object are wrong. stated: Means "said something clearly", usually in a simple, one time act; it does not fit with "over one point for two hours". argued: "Argued over" suggests a dispute with someone else, but the sentence does not indicate any argument; it focuses on the professor's extended focus on a point. Common Pitfalls: Students may pick verbs solely based on general familiarity without checking prepositional patterns like "deliberate over". Always consider the full context, including time expressions and the prepositions that naturally follow each verb. Learning typical verb + preposition combinations (collocations) is crucial for scoring well in such questions. Final Answer: The correct verb is deliberated, giving the sentence: "The professor deliberated over just one point for a full two hours."

Question 2

Rearrange the parts of the sentence in the correct order: "Statistics show P - figures over the last three decades Q - in several parts of India R - a steady rise in the turnout."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This rearrangement question asks you to form a meaningful sentence using three jumbled parts labelled P, Q, and R. The base clause is "Statistics show", followed by fragments about turnout, figures, and regions of India. Your task is to find the order that produces a grammatically correct and logically flowing sentence. Given Data / Assumptions: Base: "Statistics show". P: "figures over the last three decades". Q: "in several parts of India". R: "a steady rise in the turnout". The sentence must present what the statistics show and then specify the time period and location. Concept / Approach: We must first identify the main object of "show". Statistics usually show a particular trend or pattern. Here, R ("a steady rise in the turnout") clearly names the trend. After that, we can add details about the relevant figures and timeframe (P) and then specify the region (Q). So the natural order is: "Statistics show a steady rise in the turnout figures over the last three decades in several parts of India." This corresponds to R P Q, or RPQ. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Decide what "Statistics show" should be followed by. It should be followed by the main result: "a steady rise in the turnout" (R).Step 2: After naming the trend, we need to specify what kind of data and over what period. P ("figures over the last three decades") naturally follows, describing the data and time span.Step 3: Next, we must say where this trend is observed: Q ("in several parts of India") gives the geographical context.Step 4: Combine them: "Statistics show a steady rise in the turnout figures over the last three decades in several parts of India."Step 5: This order is R P Q, which matches option RPQ. Verification / Alternative check: Read the full sentence after choosing RPQ: "Statistics show a steady rise in the turnout figures over the last three decades in several parts of India." The sentence flows smoothly: it presents the main finding (rise in turnout), then qualifications about the data (figures, time span), and finally the location. If we try PQR ("figures over the last three decades in several parts of India a steady rise in the turnout"), the structure becomes ungrammatical and confusing, because the main noun phrase "a steady rise" is delayed awkwardly. Why Other Options Are Wrong: RQP: Would give "a steady rise in the turnout in several parts of India figures over the last three decades", which mangles the relationship between "figures" and "over the last three decades". PQR: Starting with "figures over the last three decades" directly after "Statistics show" leaves "a steady rise in the turnout" hanging at the end, destroying the natural focus of the sentence. QPR: Beginning with "in several parts of India" after "Statistics show" is grammatically possible but leaves the main outcome ("a steady rise in the turnout") to appear late and breaks the pattern of "show + what". PRQ: Also misplaces the main result and is awkward in terms of information flow. Common Pitfalls: Many students start with time or place phrases because they see familiar patterns like "over the last three decades" or "in several parts of India". However, the subject "Statistics" must first be followed by what they show (a trend), and only then by additional details. Always ask: "What is the main thing being said?" and place that immediately after the verb "show" or "indicate". Final Answer: The correct order is RPQ, giving the sentence: "Statistics show a steady rise in the turnout figures over the last three decades in several parts of India."

Question 3

In the following sentence, identify the part that contains an error: "Priya got good grades(A) / not in Hindi essay(B) / but also in arithmetic.(C) / No error(D)"

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This is an error spotting question that tests your understanding of correlative conjunctions, particularly "not only ... but also". The sentence given is: "Priya got good grades(A) / not in Hindi essay(B) / but also in arithmetic.(C) / No error(D)". You must find which part contains the grammatical or structural error. Given Data / Assumptions: Part A: "Priya got good grades". Part B: "not in Hindi essay". Part C: "but also in arithmetic." Part D: "No error". The intended structure is the correlative pair "not only ... but also". Concept / Approach: In standard English, the correlative pair used to link two parallel parts of a sentence is "not only ... but also". The word "only" is missing from the phrase in part B. The correct construction should be "not only in Hindi essay but also in arithmetic". Without "only", the correlative pair is broken, and the sentence becomes stylistically and grammatically incomplete for exam standards. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the structure being attempted: "not ... but also". In exams, the full form should be "not only ... but also".Step 2: Examine part A: "Priya got good grades" is a correct independent clause.Step 3: Examine part B: "not in Hindi essay" is missing the word "only"; it should be "not only in Hindi essay".Step 4: Examine part C: "but also in arithmetic" correctly completes the second half of the correlative pair.Step 5: Conclude that the error lies in part B, where the correlative conjunction is incomplete. Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite the whole sentence correctly: "Priya got good grades not only in Hindi essay but also in arithmetic." This version is grammatical and clearly balances the two subjects ("in Hindi essay" and "in arithmetic") using the correct correlative pair. The original sentence without "only" sounds incomplete and is not acceptable in the formal exam context. Why Other Parts Are Correct: Part A ("Priya got good grades"): This is a clear, grammatically correct main clause with proper subject verb agreement. Part C ("but also in arithmetic."): This correctly supplies the second half of the correlative structure, beginning with "but also". Part D ("No error"): This would be correct only if there were no errors in A, B, and C, but we have identified one in B, so D cannot be the answer. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes overlook the "only" in "not only ... but also" and think that "not ... but also" is acceptable. While casual speech may drop "only" occasionally, exam standards require you to use the full and correct correlative pair. Another pitfall is focusing only on verb tenses or subject verb agreement and missing structural errors in conjunctions. Final Answer: The error is in part B, which should read "not only in Hindi essay".

Question 4

In the following question, select the one-word substitute for the phrase "the recently dead person in question".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question asks you to choose a one-word substitute for the phrase "the recently dead person in question". Such questions test your ability to recognise precise formal terms used in reporting, law, and general English usage. Having a strong stock of one-word substitutes is very helpful in competitive exams. Given Data / Assumptions: Phrase: "the recently dead person in question". Options: "obliviate", "deceased", "euthanized", "reposed", "obituary". We need a word that can stand for a person who has died recently and is being referred to in a discussion or document. Concept / Approach: The formal word used to refer to a person who has died is "deceased". For example, legal documents often refer to "the deceased" when talking about someone who has died recently. It functions as a noun referring to the person and sometimes as an adjective ("the deceased person"). None of the other options correctly capture this sense in standard English usage. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Interpret the phrase: It refers to a specific person who has recently died and is being discussed.Step 2: Recall that in legal or formal contexts, such a person is referred to as "the deceased".Step 3: Examine each option: "obliviate", "deceased", "euthanized", "reposed", "obituary".Step 4: Immediately recognise "deceased" as the correct term; the others either refer to processes or different concepts.Step 5: Choose "deceased" as the one-word substitute. Verification / Alternative check: Consider how death notices and legal reports are written: "The deceased was survived by two children." Here, "the deceased" clearly replaces "the person who has died". The phrase in the question is essentially describing this same idea. None of the other words would be used in that sentence: "the euthanized" or "the reposed" are either incorrect or unnatural, and "obituary" refers to a written notice, not the person. Why Other Options Are Wrong: obliviate: Not a standard English word in this context; sometimes used in fiction but not as a common formal term. euthanized: Refers to the process of deliberately ending a life to relieve suffering, not to the person as a noun in formal reference. reposed: Means "rested" and is not the standard noun for a dead person. obituary: A notice, usually in a newspaper, that reports a person's death; it is about the person, not the person themselves. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates confuse words related to death, like "obituary", "euthanasia", and "deceased". Remember that "obituary" is the published notice, "euthanasia" is the process of mercy killing, and "deceased" is the formal label for someone who has died. Paying attention to part of speech (person vs process vs document) will help avoid such confusion. Final Answer: The correct one-word substitute is deceased.

Question 5

In the following question, choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the idiom "the best of both worlds".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This idiom based question focuses on the phrase "the best of both worlds". It is a very common English expression used in everyday conversation and writing. Understanding such idioms helps you interpret nuanced meaning and also use them appropriately in your own language. Given Data / Assumptions: Idiom: "the best of both worlds". Options describe different ways of being fortunate or successful. The phrase usually appears in sentences like "He gets the best of both worlds." We need an explanation that captures the idea of enjoying advantages from two different situations at the same time. Concept / Approach: The idiom "the best of both worlds" means enjoying the advantages of two very different things or situations simultaneously, without having to suffer their disadvantages. For example, someone living in a quiet town but working in a big city may be said to have "the best of both worlds". The option must clearly mention enjoying benefits from two different worlds or situations at the same time. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the common use of the idiom: "With a work from home option, she gets the best of both worlds: time with family and a successful career."Step 2: Identify the underlying idea: combining benefits of two different setups at once.Step 3: Check which option states that someone enjoys benefits of widely differing situations at the same time.Step 4: Option C says exactly that: "The benefits of widely differing situations, enjoyed at the same time."Step 5: Confirm that other options focus on saints, death, or being popular with opposing groups, which are not the usual meaning of the idiom. Verification / Alternative check: Insert the meaning into a typical sentence: "By living close to the city but in a quiet area, they enjoy the benefits of widely differing situations at the same time." This matches how native speakers use "the best of both worlds". They rarely relate it to saints, heaven, or being liked by both enemies. It is simply about enjoying two sets of advantages together. Why Other Options Are Wrong: To live like a saint so that you are the best in the living world as well as the heavens: This stretches the phrase literally and adds religious content not present in the idiom. To be lucky in life as well as in death: The idiom is about situations or arrangements, not about luck in death. To be popular amongst both the opposing groups: This might sound somewhat similar, but the idiom does not specifically refer to popularity among rivals; it is broader. To satisfy two enemies at once: Again narrows the meaning too much and focuses on enemies, which is unrelated to the typical usage. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes interpret idioms literally or try to connect them to extreme situations described in the options. Remember that exam-setters often include very dramatic or imaginative wrong choices. Stick to what you know from real usage: "the best of both worlds" is about combining two advantages, nothing more mystical or dramatic. Final Answer: The idiom "the best of both worlds" means the benefits of widely differing situations, enjoyed at the same time.

Question 6

In the following question, select the antonym (opposite in meaning) of the word "vigour".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question asks you to find the antonym of "vigour". "Vigour" is a common English noun used in both general and academic contexts. Knowing its meaning and typical opposites is important for synonym antonym based questions in competitive exams. Given Data / Assumptions: Target word: "vigour". Options: "lethargy", "fettle", "kilter", "robust", "fitness". We must choose the word that expresses the opposite meaning. "Vigour" usually refers to energy, strength, or active force. Concept / Approach: "Vigour" means physical strength, good health, or high energy, and sometimes intellectual or emotional force. Its opposite would therefore be a state of tiredness, lack of energy, or sluggishness. "Lethargy" perfectly captures this opposite meaning: a state of drowsiness, inactivity, or lack of enthusiasm. The other options all express positive states of health or good condition and are closer to synonyms, not antonyms. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Define "vigour" as energy, vitality, and strong physical or mental force.Step 2: Look among the options for a term that means the opposite—low energy, tiredness, or sluggishness.Step 3: Recognise that "lethargy" means a state of inactivity, sleepiness, or lack of interest.Step 4: Notice that "fettle", "kilter", "robust", and "fitness" all suggest good condition or strength, which are similar in meaning to "vigour".Step 5: Therefore select "lethargy" as the antonym. Verification / Alternative check: Consider the sentence: "He tackled his work with great vigour." Replacing "vigour" with "lethargy" reverses the meaning: "He tackled his work with great lethargy" would mean he acted very slowly and lazily. This confirms that "lethargy" is the opposite of "vigour". The other terms, such as "robust" or "fitness", would not produce an opposite meaning in such a sentence. Why Other Options Are Wrong: fettle: In the phrase "in fine fettle", it means good health or good condition, which is similar to "vigour", not opposite. kilter: In the phrase "in good kilter" or "out of kilter", it refers to proper condition or balance; by itself it is not an antonym of "vigour". robust: Means strong and healthy, clearly close to "vigorous". fitness: Means the state of being physically fit and healthy, also related to "vigour". Common Pitfalls: Some examinees may not know less common words like "fettle" and "kilter" and might assume that unknown words must be correct. However, both these words are actually associated with good condition, not tiredness. When in doubt, rely on what you definitely know: "lethargy" is widely used to describe low energy, making it the safest and correct choice here. Final Answer: The antonym of "vigour" is lethargy.

Question 7

In the following question, select the synonym (word most similar in meaning) of "streak".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question asks for a synonym of the word "streak". The word can have several meanings depending on context, but the options given here point mainly toward its meaning as a mark or line. You must select the option that best matches this sense. Given Data / Assumptions: Target word: "streak". Options: "freak", "bright", "immaculate", "smear", "blemish". We assume the physical sense of "streak" as in a long line or mark of a substance. The correct synonym should match this common meaning. Concept / Approach: The noun "streak" can mean a long, thin mark, smear, or line of colour or dirt. For example, "streaks of mud" or "a streak of blood". In this sense, "smear" is very close in meaning—a dirty mark or spot made by smearing a substance. The other options do not convey the idea of a long thin mark; "freak" relates to unusual behaviour or person, "bright" relates to light or intelligence, "immaculate" means extremely clean, and "blemish" is a general imperfection, not specifically a streak. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the likely meaning tested here: "streak" as a visible line or mark of something.Step 2: Compare each option: "freak" (odd person), "bright" (shining), "immaculate" (spotless), "smear" (dirty mark), "blemish" (flaw).Step 3: Notice that "smear" refers specifically to a marking caused by spreading a substance, similar to a streak of dirt or paint.Step 4: Recognise that "blemish" is more general and does not specifically indicate a linear mark.Step 5: Therefore, choose "smear" as the closest synonym of "streak" in the context of marks. Verification / Alternative check: Use sample sentences: "There were streaks of mud on the wall" is quite similar in meaning to "There were smears of mud on the wall." Both sentences describe lines or patches of mud. However, "blemishes of mud" would sound odd, and "freak", "bright", or "immaculate" simply do not fit in such a context. This confirms that "smear" is the nearest synonym from the given options. Why Other Options Are Wrong: freak: Refers to an unusual event or a strange person; it has nothing to do with marks or lines. bright: Describes light, colour, or intelligence, not a physical mark. immaculate: Means perfectly clean, without any dirt or marks; it is more like the opposite of "streaky". blemish: A defect or imperfection on a surface, often used for skin or reputation; it is more general and not specifically a long thin mark. Common Pitfalls: Some students may pick "blemish" because they associate both words with imperfections. However, exam questions often focus on the more specific sense. "Streak" evokes a line like mark, which is much better captured by "smear" when we think of real life examples such as streaks of paint or dirt on a surface. Final Answer: The synonym of "streak" in this context is smear.

Question 8

In the following question, select the antonym (opposite in meaning) of the word "skeptic".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This antonym question tests your understanding of the word "skeptic" and related terms in the field of belief and religion. A "skeptic" is generally someone who doubts or questions accepted beliefs or claims. You must choose the word that best represents the opposite attitude. Given Data / Assumptions: Target word: "skeptic". Options: "profaner", "heretic", "atheist", "devotee", "iconoclast". A skeptic is one who questions, doubts, or withholds belief. The antonym must reflect strong belief or devotion, particularly in religious or philosophical contexts. Concept / Approach: While "skeptic" emphasises doubt and questioning, the opposite attitude is one of strong belief, trust, or devotion. The word "devotee" denotes a person who is very devoted to a cause, deity, or belief system, often with deep faith. The other options mostly describe different forms of disbelief or opposition to conventional religion, such as "atheist" and "heretic", and therefore cannot be antonyms of "skeptic". Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Define "skeptic" as a person who habitually doubts or questions accepted opinions, especially religious or metaphysical claims.Step 2: Look for a word that represents strong belief or unquestioning faith.Step 3: Recognise that "devotee" means a person who is very devoted to someone or something, often religious.Step 4: Examine the other options: "profaner", "heretic", "atheist", and "iconoclast" all have negative or questioning attitudes toward religion or sacred matters.Step 5: Conclude that "devotee" is the only word that stands on the opposite side of doubt and scepticism. Verification / Alternative check: Consider the contrast in real life: on one side, a religious skeptic questions whether a certain deity exists; on the other side, a devotee has firm faith and performs rituals regularly. These two attitudes clearly oppose each other. "Atheist" and "skeptic" are actually similar in that both may reject or question belief in God, so they cannot be opposites. Likewise, a "heretic" or "iconoclast" is someone who challenges traditional beliefs, just like skeptics do. Why Other Options Are Wrong: profaner: A person who treats sacred things with disrespect; this is not the opposite of doubt, but rather irreverence. heretic: Someone who holds beliefs that differ from established religious doctrines; similar in spirit to a skeptic, not opposite. atheist: A person who does not believe in God at all; clearly closer to skepticism than to devotion. iconoclast: Someone who attacks or criticises cherished beliefs or institutions; again aligned more with doubt and challenge. Common Pitfalls: Students may confuse "skeptic" with "believer" or think that any word associated with religion must be an antonym. However, many religious words describe people who oppose traditional beliefs rather than support them. Always carefully distinguish between those who doubt (skeptics, atheists, heretics, iconoclasts) and those who firmly believe (devotees, believers, worshippers). Final Answer: The antonym of "skeptic" is devotee.

Question 9

In the following question, a word has been written in four different ways. Select the correctly spelt word.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This spelling question tests your ability to recognise correct standard English spelling among several incorrect variants. You are given a set of words, most of which are misspelt or not standard words. Your task is to identify the correctly spelt word used in modern English. Given Data / Assumptions: Options: "humanoid", "spiling", "amigrate", "referrent", "huminoid". We must select the one word whose spelling is correct and widely accepted. We assume general vocabulary knowledge (no highly technical spellings). Concept / Approach: "Humanoid" is a standard English word meaning having an appearance or character resembling that of a human. It is correctly spelt with "humano-" + "-id". The other options either do not exist as standard English words ("spiling", "amigrate", "huminoid") or are incorrect spellings of known words ("referrent" should be "referent"). Therefore, "humanoid" is the only correct option. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Check each word against known vocabulary. "Humanoid" is a familiar term in science fiction and robotics.Step 2: Examine "spiling": not a common English word; the likely related word is "spilling" or "spoiling".Step 3: "Amigrate" does not match any common verb; the standard verb is "migrate".Step 4: "Referrent" resembles "referent", the correct spelling for something referred to by a word; note the single "r" in the middle.Step 5: "Huminoid" is a misspelling of "humanoid". Thus, "humanoid" is clearly the only correctly spelt choice. Verification / Alternative check: Use "humanoid" in a sentence: "The robot had a humanoid form." This looks and sounds right, and you can find this spelling in dictionaries and science fiction descriptions. Try the others: "The robot had a huminoid form" or "He is a referrent" clearly look wrong to anyone familiar with written English. This confirms that "humanoid" is the standard spelling. Why Other Options Are Wrong: spiling: Not a standard word; the common form for dropping liquid is "spilling". amigrate: No such standard verb; the correct word is "migrate". referrent: Misspelling of "referent", which has only one "r" after "fe". huminoid: Misspelt version of "humanoid", with "ni" instead of "an". Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes assume that the most unusual or unfamiliar word must be correct. However, exam setters often include such trick options deliberately. Whenever possible, rely on words you recognise from reading. If you recall seeing "humanoid" in books, articles, or movies, that is a strong clue that it is the correct choice. Final Answer: The correctly spelt word is humanoid.

Question 10

In the following sentence, identify the part that contains an error: "I told to the coach(A) / that I won't be able(B) / to come for the practice.(C) / No error(D)".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This error spotting question focuses on correct verb and preposition usage as well as tense consistency in reported speech. The sentence is: "I told to the coach(A) / that I won't be able(B) / to come for the practice.(C) / No error(D)". You must identify which part of the sentence contains a grammatical or usage error. Given Data / Assumptions: Part A: "I told to the coach". Part B: "that I won't be able". Part C: "to come for the practice." Part D: "No error". The intended meaning is that the speaker informed the coach about their inability to attend practice. Concept / Approach: The verb "tell" in English usually takes a direct object without the preposition "to". We say "tell someone something", not "tell to someone something". Correct usage is "I told the coach that..." or "I said to the coach that...". Therefore, the phrase "told to the coach" is incorrect; the preposition "to" must be removed. Part B, although it has a subtle tense issue (past "told" with "won't"), is generally accepted in conversation and is less clearly wrong than the obvious verb preposition error in part A for exam purposes. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Examine part A: "I told to the coach." Correct forms are "I told the coach" or "I said to the coach." The presence of "to" after "told" is wrong.Step 2: Examine part B: "that I won't be able." While some might prefer "wouldn't" for strict backshift, the main clear grammatical error in the sentence lies elsewhere.Step 3: Examine part C: "to come for the practice." This is acceptable standard English: "come for the practice" means attend the practice session.Step 4: Conclude that the definite, exam relevant error is in part A. Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite the sentence correctly: "I told the coach that I won't be able to come for the practice." This version removes "to" after "told" and sounds like natural modern English, especially in spoken form. If we alter only part B, we might say "that I wouldn't be able", which is a stylistic improvement, but exam questions typically highlight the more obvious structural mistake first—in this case, "told to the coach". Why Other Parts Are (Relatively) Acceptable: Part B ("that I won't be able"): In strict reported speech after a past reporting verb, some teachers prefer "wouldn't". However, contemporary English often keeps "won't" when the future reference is still valid or strongly felt. Exams usually focus on clearer, non controversial errors. Part C ("to come for the practice."): This is grammatically correct; "come for the practice" is a standard expression. Part D ("No error"): Cannot be correct because we have already identified an error in part A. Common Pitfalls: Students often confuse the patterns "tell someone" and "say to someone". Remember: "tell" takes a direct object (tell him, tell the coach), while "say" takes "to" (say to him, say to the coach). Mixing these patterns leads to errors like "told to the coach". When you see "told to", it should immediately alert you to a probable mistake. Final Answer: The error is in part A; it should be "I told the coach", not "I told to the coach".

Question 11

In the following question, select the synonym (word most similar in meaning) of "sentry".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question asks for a synonym of the word "sentry". Such words are often used in descriptions of armies, security, and guarding. Recognising them helps in understanding passages on war, history, or security matters. Given Data / Assumptions: Target word: "sentry". Options: "bandit", "competitor", "sentinel", "foe", "warrior". We must choose the word closest in meaning to a guard or watchman. Concept / Approach: "Sentry" means a soldier or guard whose job is to stand and keep watch, especially at the entrance to a place or at some strategic point. The word "sentinel" has almost the same meaning: a guard or lookout who stands watch. Other options like "bandit", "competitor", "foe", and "warrior" may be related to conflict but do not specifically refer to someone whose duty is to keep watch. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Define "sentry" as a guard or soldier posted to keep watch at a certain spot.Step 2: Compare each option: "bandit" (robber), "competitor" (rival), "sentinel" (guard), "foe" (enemy), "warrior" (fighter).Step 3: Notice that "sentinel" matches "sentry" exactly in the sense of someone who stands watch.Step 4: Confirm that the other words either describe criminals, enemies, or fighters, not specifically watchmen.Step 5: Select "sentinel" as the correct synonym. Verification / Alternative check: Use both words in similar sentences: "The sentry stood at the gate all night" and "The sentinel stood at the gate all night." Both sentences are correct and convey the same idea of a guard on duty. If we substitute "bandit", the sentence would mean a robber stood at the gate, which is clearly different. Why Other Options Are Wrong: bandit: A robber or outlaw who attacks and steals; an enemy of security, not a guard. competitor: Someone who competes, especially in business or sports; no relation to guarding. foe: An enemy, opponent, or adversary; again, not a guard. warrior: A fighter, especially in battles; while warriors may fight, they are not by definition guards posted on watch. Common Pitfalls: Some examinees might select "warrior" or "foe" just because these words are associated with battles and soldiers. However, synonym questions require you to be precise: "sentry" refers to a particular role (standing guard), not just any person involved in war. Always match the core meaning, not just superficial associations. Final Answer: The synonym of "sentry" is sentinel.

Question 12

Improve the bracketed part of the sentence: "If a person (studied) the history of the Maratha empire, he would have wondered how a small warrior tribe could have challenged the mighty Mughals."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This sentence improvement question tests your understanding of conditional sentences and the correct use of past perfect in hypothetical situations. The original sentence is: "If a person (studied) the history of the Maratha empire, he would have wondered how a small warrior tribe could have challenged the mighty Mughals." You must select the form of the verb that fits best in this Type 3 (unreal past) conditional structure. Given Data / Assumptions: Clause 1 (if clause): "If a person ___ the history of the Maratha empire". Clause 2 (result clause): "he would have wondered how a small warrior tribe could have challenged the mighty Mughals." The structure "would have wondered" indicates an unreal or hypothetical situation in the past. Options: "has studied", "had studied", "could study", "no improvement", "was studying". Concept / Approach: In English grammar, unreal or hypothetical conditions in the past typically use the past perfect in the if clause and "would have" + past participle in the main clause. This is known as the third conditional: "If he had studied, he would have known." Here, "would have wondered" clearly marks the main clause as unreal past. Therefore, the correct form in the if clause must be "had studied". The simple past "studied" is less precise, and "has studied" or "was studying" would break the standard conditional pattern. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise the pattern "would have wondered", which signals a hypothetical result in the past.Step 2: Recall the rule for third conditional sentences: "If + past perfect, would have + past participle."Step 3: Apply this to the sentence: the if clause should be "If a person had studied the history of the Maratha empire".Step 4: Check how it reads: "If a person had studied the history of the Maratha empire, he would have wondered..." This fits the pattern perfectly.Step 5: Eliminate other options that do not match the required tense and aspect. Verification / Alternative check: Consider the meaning: the sentence suggests a hypothetical person in the past who did not actually study that history. If he had studied it, he would have reacted with wonder. The past perfect "had studied" clearly signals that the studying would have taken place before the time of wondering. Simple past "studied" is sometimes used casually but is less accurate in formal grammar, especially in exam settings where the rule based pattern is being tested. Why Other Options Are Wrong: has studied: Present perfect is used for actions with present relevance, not for a purely hypothetical past condition leading to "would have wondered". could study: This changes the meaning to an unreal present or future ability, not a completed past action. no improvement: Leaves "studied" (simple past) in place; while understandable, it does not match the standard third conditional structure being tested. was studying: Past continuous implies an ongoing past action and does not fit with the idea of a completed prior study leading to the reaction of wondering. Common Pitfalls: Students often mix second and third conditional structures or overuse simple past in the if clause. Whenever you see "would have + past participle" in the main clause, check whether the if clause refers to an earlier, unreal past event. If so, the safest and most grammatically correct choice is "had + past participle" in the if clause. Final Answer: The correct improvement is had studied, giving the sentence: "If a person had studied the history of the Maratha empire, he would have wondered how a small warrior tribe could have challenged the mighty Mughals."

Question 13

In the following question, select the option that best expresses the meaning of the English idiom or phrase "to take the cake", as it is used in everyday language.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The idiom "to take the cake" is a commonly tested phrase in English vocabulary and competitive examinations. Understanding idioms is important because they do not always mean exactly what the individual words suggest. This question checks whether the learner knows that "to take the cake" is used to describe something that is especially remarkable, often in a positive way, though in informal speech it can sometimes be used sarcastically. Here, the intended sense is of being the best or most outstanding example in a situation. Given Data / Assumptions: The idiom given is "to take the cake". The task is to choose the option that best matches its usual figurative meaning. The options present several everyday situations involving gifts, food, prizes, and excellence. We assume standard modern English usage as tested in competitive English exams. Concept / Approach: Idioms are fixed expressions whose meanings cannot be understood only from the meanings of the individual words. "To take the cake" originates from the idea of winning a prize in a contest, where the cake is awarded to the best performer. In present day usage, it generally means to be the most remarkable, often the best, most impressive, or sometimes the most extreme example. To answer the question correctly, we match this figurative sense with the closest option. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Read the idiom "to take the cake" and recall its figurative meaning from prior knowledge or context. Step 2: Consider that in many language tests, this idiom is taken to mean "to be the best" or "to be outstanding in some way". Step 3: Examine option a, which talks about receiving a lovely gift; this is about receiving something pleasant, not being outstanding. Step 4: Examine option b, which focuses on having something unexpectedly good to eat; this is literal and does not capture the idiomatic sense. Step 5: Examine option c, which mentions grabbing a prize before others. Although it hints at winning, it stresses the act of grabbing rather than the idea of being remarkable overall. Step 6: Examine option d, which states "to be especially good or outstanding in some respect". This captures the core idea that something or someone stands out above all others. Step 7: Conclude that option d is the best match for the idiomatic meaning. Verification / Alternative check: In common usage, sentences like "Her performance really takes the cake" or "That excuse takes the cake" show that the phrase points to something that stands out from all others. Many standard idiom lists and exam preparation books also define "to take the cake" as meaning "to be the most remarkable or outstanding". Therefore, choosing the option that highlights being especially good or outstanding confirms our interpretation. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option a is wrong because receiving a lovely gift is about getting a present, not about being the best or most remarkable. Option b is wrong because it focuses on food and eating in a literal way rather than the figurative sense of the idiom. Option c is wrong because it narrows the meaning to grabbing a prize before others, which is more about speed or competition than general outstanding quality. Common Pitfalls: Learners sometimes interpret idioms literally, especially when the words refer to common objects like cake, gift, or prize. Another mistake is to assume that any mention of winning or prize automatically fits the idiom, without checking whether the nuance of being outstanding is present. To avoid such errors, students should learn idioms as fixed expressions and pay attention to the broader sense used in example sentences. Final Answer: The correct answer is: To be especially good or outstanding in some respect.

Question 14

Select the option that contains the correctly spelt standard English word among the four given choices.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Spelling based questions are a common feature of competitive English tests because they assess a candidate's familiarity with standard written English. In this question, the learner must identify which one of the four options is spelt correctly according to accepted usage. Such items not only test memory but also reading habits, since repeated exposure to correct forms in books and newspapers usually strengthens spelling skills. Given Data / Assumptions: Four similar looking words are given as options. Only one is a correctly spelt English word in everyday usage. The words resemble real English words such as revolver, culpable, vegetate, and rhythmic. The learner must choose the option that matches the correct dictionary form. Concept / Approach: Words in spelling questions are often near misses of standard vocabulary, with one or two letters changed, added, or omitted. Here, we check each option against the known correct forms. "Culpable" is a known English adjective meaning "deserving blame". The other three options show suspicious letter combinations that do not match the usual patterns. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Look at option a, "rewolver". The correct word referring to a type of gun is "revolver", not "rewolver"; the extra "w" makes this spelling wrong. Step 2: Look at option b, "culpable". This is a recognized English adjective that means deserving blame or censure. It appears frequently in legal and moral contexts, and the spelling looks standard. Step 3: Look at option c, "vagetate". This appears to be a distorted version of "vegetate" which means to lead a dull, inactive life. The correct spelling uses "vege" rather than "vage". Step 4: Look at option d, "rhythmmic". The correct word meaning having rhythm is "rhythmic" with only one "m" in the middle, not "rhythmmic". Step 5: Since only option b matches a correct, standard dictionary spelling, select "culpable" as the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Consulting any standard English dictionary shows entries for "culpable" and "revolver" but not for "rewolver". Similarly, the dictionary lists "vegetate" and "rhythmic", confirming that "vagetate" and "rhythmmic" are incorrect spellings. Therefore, cross checking with known correct spellings supports option b as the only valid choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option a is wrong because it inserts an unnecessary "w", creating a non standard form that does not appear in reputable dictionaries. Option c is wrong because it replaces "vege" with "vage", which is not the correct root for the verb "to vegetate". Option d is wrong because it doubles the "m" and produces "rhythmmic" instead of the accepted "rhythmic". Common Pitfalls: Test takers sometimes rely on how a word sounds rather than how it is conventionally written, which can mislead them when extra letters appear. Another common mistake is to be distracted by unusual looking combinations like "rhythmmic" because the base word "rhythm" already has a double consonant feel. To improve accuracy, students should read widely and pay attention to how words appear in print, not just how they sound. Final Answer: The correct answer is: culpable.

Question 15

Convert the following sentence from direct to indirect speech and select the correct reported version: Father said to Rahul, "Are you in such a hurry to cross the road?"

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Reported speech, also called indirect speech, is a very important area in English grammar. Examinations often test whether candidates can correctly transform a question in direct speech into its indirect form while keeping tense, pronouns, and word order accurate. In this question, the spoken words of the father addressed to Rahul must be reported in a grammatically correct indirect structure. Given Data / Assumptions: Direct speech: Father said to Rahul, "Are you in such a hurry to cross the road?" The reporting verb is "said to", which usually becomes "asked" for questions. The question is a yes or no question beginning with the auxiliary "Are". The answer choices provide different patterns for indirect speech with slight changes in pronouns, tense, and connectors. Concept / Approach: When converting a yes or no question from direct to indirect speech, "said to" is commonly changed to "asked". The auxiliary verb form is shifted from question order (Are you) to statement order (he was) in the reported clause. We introduce the clause with "if" or "whether" instead of using a question mark. Pronouns change from second person "you" to third person "he" to match the object "Rahul". Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Change the reporting verb "said to" into "asked", because the father is clearly asking a question. Step 2: Introduce the reported question with the conjunction "if" or "whether" to signal an indirect yes or no type question. Step 3: Convert the present continuous question "Are you in such a hurry to cross the road?" into statement order in the past: "he was in such a hurry to cross the road". Step 4: Adjust the pronoun "you" to "he" because the person addressed is Rahul. Step 5: Combine the parts: "Father asked Rahul if he was in such a hurry to cross the road." Step 6: Compare this structure with the options given and select the one that matches exactly. Verification / Alternative check: Option a uses "asked", the correct connector "if", and the correct pronoun and tense: "if he was in such a hurry to cross the road". This matches standard grammar rules for reported questions and therefore is appropriate. No grammatical errors are present in option a, confirming it as the correct indirect form. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option b changes the wording "such a hurry" to "a big hurry". This alters the original meaning and is therefore not a precise transformation. Option c incorrectly includes the word "that" before "if", which is not standard in this structure and makes the sentence awkward. Option d uses "ask" instead of "asked" and so fails to maintain correct past tense in the reporting verb. Common Pitfalls: Learners may forget to change the word order from interrogative to statement form in the reported clause. Another common mistake is to leave the pronoun unchanged, writing "you" instead of converting it to "he" or "she" based on the context. Students sometimes insert extra words like "that" before "if" or "whether", which is unnecessary and incorrect. Final Answer: The correct answer is: Father asked Rahul if he was in such a hurry to cross the road.

Question 16

Change the following passive sentence into a suitable active voice construction and select the correct option: The most useful gift of my wedding was given to me by my aunt.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Voice transformation, that is, converting sentences from passive to active voice or the reverse, is a frequently tested grammar skill. In this question, a sentence in the passive voice describing a wedding gift must be changed into a correct, natural sounding active voice sentence. The tense, meaning, and emphasis must all be preserved as far as possible. Given Data / Assumptions: Passive sentence: The most useful gift of my wedding was given to me by my aunt. The doer of the action is "my aunt". The receiver of the action is "me". The object affected by the action is "the most useful gift of my wedding". Concept / Approach: An active voice sentence makes the doer of the action the grammatical subject. In the passive sentence, the structure is "object + was given + to me + by my aunt". To convert to active voice, "my aunt" should become the subject, and "the most useful gift of my wedding" should remain the object. The verb phrase "was given" should change to the simple past "gave", preserving tense but shifting to active form. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the subject in the passive sentence. The agent is "my aunt", mentioned in the phrase "by my aunt". Step 2: Identify the object and indirect object. The direct object is "the most useful gift of my wedding". The indirect object is "me". Step 3: In active voice, place "my aunt" at the beginning as the subject. Step 4: Use the simple past tense active form of the verb: "gave". Step 5: Keep the indirect object "me" after the verb and follow it with the direct object: "my aunt gave me the most useful gift of my wedding". Step 6: Compare this structure with the given options to find the exact match. Verification / Alternative check: The passive sentence uses "was given", which is the simple past passive of "give". The correct active transformation must therefore use "gave", not a perfect tense form. Option a uses "gave", matches the subject, and retains the same object and meaning, so it is consistent with the original. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option b uses "had given", which introduces the past perfect tense and changes the time reference compared to the simple past in the original. Option c remains in a type of passive form and also changes the structure, so it does not produce a straightforward active sentence. Option d uses "has given", which is present perfect, again conflicting with the original simple past time reference. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes change the tense when moving from passive to active, even though the question usually expects the same tense to be maintained. Another error is to omit the indirect object "me" or change the order of objects in a way that sounds unnatural. Candidates should practice identifying agent, verb, and object clearly before attempting such transformations. Final Answer: The correct answer is: My aunt gave me the most useful gift of my wedding.

Question 17

Rearrange the given parts of the sentence in correct order to form a meaningful statement about judicial dissent: A dissent in a court P the intelligence of a future day Q to the brooding spirit of law, to R of last resort is an appeal.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Rearrangement questions test a learner's ability to recognise logical sentence structure and meaningful flow of ideas. The given sentence parts form a famous quotation about judicial dissent. The challenge is to identify the correct sequence of the fragments P, Q, and R that, when combined with the main clause, yield a complete, coherent sentence. Given Data / Assumptions: Main clause beginning: "A dissent in a court" P: "the intelligence of a future day" Q: "to the brooding spirit of law, to" R: "of last resort is an appeal" The complete sentence should read as a meaningful philosophical statement about dissent in a court of last resort. Concept / Approach: Sentence rearrangement often follows familiar grammatical patterns. The phrase "court of last resort" is a standard legal expression referring to the highest court. After forming "court of last resort", the sentence should continue with a verb phrase such as "is an appeal". The prepositional phrase "to the brooding spirit of law, to the intelligence of a future day" logically describes the target of that appeal. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Start from the main subject phrase "A dissent in a court". We need to decide which fragment can logically follow "court". Step 2: Fragment R begins with "of last resort is an appeal". Attaching it gives "A dissent in a court of last resort is an appeal", which is grammatically complete and meaningful. Step 3: Now, we need to add the remaining parts Q and P to complete the thought. Fragment Q is "to the brooding spirit of law, to". This looks like the start of a prepositional phrase that tells us where the appeal is directed. Step 4: Fragment P, "the intelligence of a future day", naturally completes the phrase that begins with "to". So the full sequence after R becomes "to the brooding spirit of law, to the intelligence of a future day". Step 5: Putting everything together, we get: "A dissent in a court of last resort is an appeal to the brooding spirit of law, to the intelligence of a future day." Step 6: This order corresponds to R followed by Q followed by P, which is represented by option b (RQP). Verification / Alternative check: Check grammatical correctness: "court of last resort" is a known phrase, and "is an appeal to the brooding spirit of law, to the intelligence of a future day" is a smooth, logically connected continuation. Any other ordering, such as P first or Q first, breaks the natural collocation "court of last resort" or leaves prepositions without suitable objects. Therefore, RQP is the only sequence that results in a standard, quotable sentence. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option a (QRP) would produce "A dissent in a court to the brooding spirit of law, to of last resort is an appeal the intelligence of a future day", which is clearly ungrammatical. Option c (PRQ) starts with "A dissent in a court the intelligence of a future day", which does not link properly to "court" and disrupts the phrase "court of last resort". Option d (PQR) creates a similar breakdown where the object of "to" and the phrase "of last resort" are misplaced, leading to awkward, incorrect structure. Common Pitfalls: Students often try to start with the fragment that sounds the most philosophical, such as "the intelligence of a future day", without checking basic grammatical links. Another pitfall is ignoring familiar collocations like "court of last resort", which are strong clues for correct ordering. To avoid mistakes, learners should first look for fixed phrases and meaningful subject verb combinations, then attach remaining parts as modifiers. Final Answer: The correct answer is: RQP.

Question 18

Improve the bracketed part of the sentence by choosing the correct future perfect form: By 2030 India (would) have become the most populous country in the world.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Tense and modality questions frequently appear in competitive English exams. This item checks whether the learner knows how to form a correct future perfect tense when referring to a situation that will already be true by a certain time in the future. The sentence talks about India's population status by the year 2030, which calls for precise use of auxiliary verbs. Given Data / Assumptions: Sentence: "By 2030 India (would) have become the most populous country in the world." Bracketed word: "would" is the part that has to be tested and possibly replaced. We are referring to a prediction about a future state that will be completed by a specific year. The options are "will", "should", "shall", and "no improvement". Concept / Approach: The future perfect tense is typically formed with "will have" plus the past participle. "Would have" is often used to talk about imaginary past situations or future from a past viewpoint, not a neutral future prediction. "Should" and "shall" express duty, suggestion, or formal obligation, and are not standard for neutral predictions of this type. Therefore, we expect the appropriate form to be "will have become". Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise that the phrase "By 2030" sets a definite future point. Step 2: When describing a state that will already be completed by that future time, we use the future perfect tense: "will have become". Step 3: Replace the bracketed auxiliary "would" with "will" so that the verb phrase becomes "will have become". Step 4: Check the full sentence: "By 2030 India will have become the most populous country in the world." This is grammatically correct and expresses a prediction about a completed state in the future. Step 5: Compare with the options and choose the one that gives the correct structure. Verification / Alternative check: If we use "would have become", the sentence sounds like speculation dependent on some condition, rather than a straightforward forecast. Using "should have become" suggests duty or expectation, which is not intended here. Therefore, "will have become" is the suitable standard for a neutral prediction about the future. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option b, "should", would lead to "should have become", which expresses obligation or expectation and does not fit a neutral demographic projection. Option c, "shall", is traditionally used for first person future or formal instructions, so "shall have become" sounds unnatural with the subject "India" in this context. Option d, "no improvement", would keep "would have become", which is not the most accurate choice for this type of statement. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes overuse "would" in future sentences because they hear it frequently in conditional or polite contexts. Another error is forgetting that "by" plus a future year usually calls for future perfect when the action will already be complete at that time. To avoid confusion, learners should remember that "will have" plus past participle is the typical future perfect pattern for neutral predictions. Final Answer: The correct answer is: will.

Question 19

Fill in the blank with the most appropriate word: I will not be able to come to the party, as I have certain __________ to meet.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Vocabulary questions that involve choosing the most suitable word to complete a sentence test both meaning and collocation. The phrase "to meet" followed by a noun often indicates obligations or responsibilities. This item checks whether the learner can select the word that naturally combines with "to meet" in the context of explaining why someone cannot attend a party. Given Data / Assumptions: Sentence: "I will not be able to come to the party, as I have certain __________ to meet." The missing word should describe obligations or duties that prevent attendance. The options are "promises", "commitments", "assurances", and "tasks". The expression "to meet" is commonly used with words like "commitments" or "obligations". Concept / Approach: In English, some nouns frequently appear with certain verbs. These habitual pairings are called collocations. The phrase "to meet commitments" means to fulfil obligations or honour agreements. "Promises" can also be kept or fulfilled, but the common expression is "to keep a promise", not "to meet promises". "Assurances" are usually "given" or "received", while "tasks" are "done" or "completed". Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Understand the overall meaning of the sentence. The speaker is giving a reason for not attending a party. Step 2: Recognise that the speaker is referring to responsibilities or obligations that must be fulfilled first. Step 3: Test option a: "promises". The phrase "to meet promises" is uncommon; native speakers normally say "to keep promises". This makes option a less suitable. Step 4: Test option b: "commitments". The phrase "to meet commitments" is a standard expression meaning to honour obligations, especially professional or personal responsibilities. Step 5: Test option c: "assurances". We usually "give assurances" rather than "meet assurances", so this does not collocate well with "to meet". Step 6: Test option d: "tasks". It is more natural to "complete tasks" or "do tasks", not "meet tasks". Step 7: Conclude that "commitments" is the only option that combines naturally with "to meet" and conveys the correct meaning. Verification / Alternative check: Standard business and social English often uses phrases like "due to prior commitments" or "to meet my commitments". This matches the context of being busy or already engaged elsewhere. Therefore, choosing "commitments" accurately reflects both meaning and collocation. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option a is wrong because the usual phrase is "keep a promise", not "meet a promise". Option c is wrong because "assurances" do not usually follow the verb "meet"; they are given or received, not met. Option d is wrong because "tasks" are simply done, handled, or completed, so the combination "meet tasks" sounds unnatural. Common Pitfalls: Learners may translate directly from their first language and choose a word that matches meaning but not collocation. Another common error is to focus only on the noun without checking how well it fits with the verb "to meet". To improve, students should pay attention to fixed expressions in reading passages and listen to how native speakers combine verbs and nouns. Final Answer: The correct answer is: commitments.

Question 20

Select the single word that best substitutes the given phrase: To cut off a branch, limb, or twig from the main body of a tree.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: One word substitution questions test concise vocabulary knowledge. The aim is to identify a single verb that captures the full meaning of the phrase given. In this case, the phrase describes the act of cutting off a branch, limb, or twig from a tree. Such questions are common in general English sections of competitive exams to evaluate how precise a candidate can be with word choice. Given Data / Assumptions: The phrase is "To cut off a branch, limb, or twig from the main body of a tree". The options are "dollop", "clop", "lop", and "slop". We are looking for a verb related to cutting branches or pruning. The other options may sound similar but have different meanings. Concept / Approach: In English, the verb "lop" means to cut off branches or twigs from a tree, especially to prune or trim growth. "Dollop" refers to a lump or scoop of something soft, such as cream or sauce. "Clop" is an onomatopoeic word representing the sound of a horse's hooves. "Slop" refers to spill or splash liquid or wet material, or to messy wet food. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on the key action in the phrase, which is cutting off parts of a tree. Step 2: Check option a, "dollop". This word is connected with a lump of food, especially soft food scooped with a spoon; it has nothing to do with trees or cutting. Step 3: Check option b, "clop". This is a sound word used to describe the noise of hooves, again unrelated to cutting branches. Step 4: Check option c, "lop". Dictionaries define "lop" as cutting off branches, twigs, or other parts of a tree, often to shape or reduce it. Step 5: Check option d, "slop". This is used for liquids that spill or for watery food, not for cutting or pruning trees. Step 6: Conclude that "lop" is the only verb that accurately covers the action described in the phrase. Verification / Alternative check: Gardening and forestry manuals frequently use expressions like "to lop off branches" or "the tree was lopped to reduce its height". Such usage supports the meaning of "lop" as cutting off branches or unwanted growth. No similar usage exists for "dollop", "clop", or "slop" in this context. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option a is wrong because "dollop" relates to a portion of soft food and cannot describe cutting a tree. Option b is wrong because "clop" is a sound, not an action involving wood or branches. Option d is wrong because "slop" describes messy liquid movement or food, not tree pruning. Common Pitfalls: Students may be confused by similar sounding words and choose based on sound rather than meaning. Another pitfall is failing to recall less common verbs like "lop", even though they are standard in certain contexts. Improving one word substitution skills requires not only memorising meanings but also noticing words in their natural context, such as in articles about gardening or nature. Final Answer: The correct answer is: lop.

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