Question 1

In this error spotting question, read the sentence and identify the part that contains an error. The sentence is: "It must be noted that decentralization should be applied along with caution as it can lead to organizational disintegration."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question assesses your sensitivity to idiomatic usage in formal English, especially in management or organizational discussions. The sentence warns that decentralization, if not carefully handled, may damage the organisation. One segment, however, contains an unnatural prepositional phrase that should be corrected. Given Data / Assumptions: Sentence: "It must be noted that decentralization should be applied along with caution as it can lead to organizational disintegration." Segments: A: It must be noted that B: Decentralization should be applied C: Along with caution as it can D: Lead to organizational disintegration Option E: No error. The intended meaning is that decentralization should be applied with caution. Concept / Approach: In natural English, we say that something should be done "with caution", not "along with caution". The phrase "along with" means "in addition to", as in "Along with the letter, he sent some documents." In this sentence, caution is not something that is added as a separate item; it describes the manner in which decentralization should be applied. Therefore, the correct collocation is "applied with caution", and the phrase "along with caution" is non standard. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Examine segment A: "It must be noted that" is a formal phrase and is grammatically correct. Step 2: Segment B: "Decentralization should be applied" correctly uses passive voice and introduces the main topic. Step 3: Segment C: "along with caution as it can" is where the problem lies. The phrase "along with caution" is not idiomatic for describing how something should be applied. Step 4: Replace "along with" with "with" to form the correct expression "with caution". Step 5: Segment D correctly states the result: "lead to organizational disintegration". Step 6: Therefore, the erroneous part is segment C. Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite the corrected sentence: "It must be noted that decentralization should be applied with caution as it can lead to organizational disintegration." This version is both clear and idiomatic. If we keep "along with caution", the sentence sounds odd and may confuse readers. No other segment contains a similar collocation or grammatical error, confirming that segment C is the only incorrect part. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Segment A is a standard introductory clause and does not contain any error. Segment B is correct in both tense and voice for a general recommendation. Segment D correctly uses "lead to" to describe a possible negative consequence. Choosing "No error" would leave the non standard phrase "along with caution" unchanged. Common Pitfalls: Many learners overuse "along with" because it sounds formal, but it does not replace "with" in every situation. A good rule is that "with caution", "with care", and "with attention" are the correct idiomatic forms when describing manner. Reserve "along with" for adding items, such as "along with his friends" or "along with the report". Recognising these set phrases will help you avoid errors of this type. Final Answer: The error is in segment C, which should read "with caution as it can", so option C is correct.

Question 2

In this numbered error spotting question, read the sentence and identify the part that contains an error. The sentence is: "She picked (1) on the (2) trail soon after. (3) No error (4)". Choose 1, 2, 3, or 4.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your knowledge of phrasal verbs in English. The sentence describes someone resuming or following a trail after having lost it for a while. The correct idiomatic phrasal verb in this context is important. The sentence is divided into three numbered parts and a fourth option indicating that there is no error. Given Data / Assumptions: Sentence with parts: (1) She picked (2) on the (3) trail soon after. (4) No error. Options: 1, 2, 3, 4. The intended expression is "picked up the trail". Concept / Approach: In English, to say that someone starts following a trail again, we use the phrasal verb "pick up" as in "pick up the trail". The word "on" is not used in this phrasal verb. "Pick on" means to bully or treat someone unfairly, which is completely different and does not make sense here. Therefore, the error is in the part that uses "on the" instead of "up the". Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Look at part (1): "She picked". On its own, this is fine as the beginning of a phrasal verb. Step 2: Check part (2): "on the". When combined with "picked", it forms "picked on", which means to harass or bully someone, not to resume following a trail. Step 3: Look at part (3): "trail soon after." The complete verb phrase should be "picked up the trail", not "picked on the trail". Step 4: Therefore, part (2) should contain "up the" instead of "on the". Step 5: Parts (1) and (3) are correct once part (2) is fixed, so the error is clearly in segment 2. Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite the corrected sentence: "She picked up the trail soon after." This is a common expression in narratives, especially when someone is searching or tracking. None of the other parts needs change. If you choose "No error", you would be accepting the incorrect phrasal verb "picked on the trail", which does not convey the intended meaning. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Part (1) "She picked" is fine because "picked up" is the correct verb phrase, and "picked" is the correct base. Part (3) "trail soon after." correctly completes the object and gives a time reference. Option (4) "No error" is wrong because we have identified a clear phrasal verb error in part (2). Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes treat any preposition after a verb as acceptable if the general idea seems clear. However, phrasal verbs in English have specific combinations and meanings that often cannot be guessed. It is important to learn common phrasal verbs like "pick up", "look after", and "turn down" and remember that replacing one small word can completely change or destroy the meaning. Final Answer: The error is in part (2), so the correct option is 2.

Question 3

In this numbered error spotting question, read the sentence and identify the part that contains an error. The sentence is: "Internet Service Providers (ISPs) should provide us (1) with open networks and should not block or discriminate for (2) any a…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests correct preposition usage in a modern technological context. The sentence discusses what Internet Service Providers should or should not do with respect to applications and content on their networks. One part of the sentence contains a preposition that is not idiomatic in English for this situation. You must locate that part. Given Data / Assumptions: Sentence with parts: (1) Internet Service Providers (ISPs) should provide us (2) with open networks and should not block or discriminate for (3) any application or content that rides over those networks. (4) No error. Options: 1, 2, 3, 4. The intended meaning is that ISPs should not block or discriminate against any application or content. Concept / Approach: The correct phrasal expression is "discriminate against" when describing unfair treatment of a person, group, application, or content. The preposition "for" does not form this idiom. We say "do not discriminate against any user" and by extension "do not discriminate against any application or content". Therefore, the segment that uses "discriminate for" contains the error. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Check part (1): "Internet Service Providers (ISPs) should provide us" is grammatically sound and introduces the subject and verb. Step 2: Examine part (2): "with open networks and should not block or discriminate for". The phrase "discriminate for" is not idiomatic. The correct expression is "discriminate against". Step 3: Part (3): "any application or content that rides over those networks." This is a clear object of the verbs "block or discriminate against" and is grammatically correct. Step 4: Therefore, the only incorrect part is segment (2), which should be "with open networks and should not block or discriminate against". Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite the corrected sentence: "Internet Service Providers (ISPs) should provide us with open networks and should not block or discriminate against any application or content that rides over those networks." This is the standard wording used in discussions of net neutrality. If we leave "discriminate for", the meaning becomes unclear and incorrect, as the phrase suggests favouring something without the usual negative nuance of discrimination. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Part (1) properly introduces what ISPs should do and has correct grammar. Part (3) correctly states "any application or content that rides over those networks", which is understandable and grammatical. Option (4) "No error" is wrong because we have already found the incorrect preposition in part (2). Common Pitfalls: Learners sometimes confuse "discriminate against" with expressions like "care for" or "vote for" and wrongly attach "for" to "discriminate". Remember that in standard English, "discriminate against" is used when someone is treated unfairly, while "discriminate between" is used when distinguishing two things. Knowing these patterns prevents common mistakes in both speaking and exams. Final Answer: The error is in part (2); "discriminate for" should be "discriminate against", so option 2 is correct.

Question 4

In this sentence completion question, choose the word that best completes the sentence: "Meera cannot ______ the exam results."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question asks you to select a verb that logically fits the sentence about Meera and the exam results. The context suggests that she is eagerly waiting for the outcome of the exam. You need to pick the word that accurately expresses the idea of waiting for something to happen. Given Data / Assumptions: Sentence: "Meera cannot ______ the exam results." Options: depict, await, envision, observe. The implied meaning is that Meera is impatient or eager for the results to be declared. We assume this is similar to the common phrase "cannot wait for the exam results". Concept / Approach: The verb "await" means "to wait for something" and is often used in formal English without a preposition: "await the results", "await the decision". The sentence "Meera cannot await the exam results" is another way of expressing "Meera cannot wait for the exam results." The other options do not convey this meaning. "Depict" means to show or represent in a picture or words, "envision" means to imagine, and "observe" means to see or notice. None of these matches the context of waiting for results. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Understand the likely situation: Meera is anxious about her exam performance and is waiting for the results. Step 2: Look for a verb that means "to wait for". Among the options, "await" is the only word with that meaning. Step 3: Insert "await" in the blank: "Meera cannot await the exam results." Step 4: Confirm that the sentence now expresses impatience or eagerness correctly. Step 5: Check other options to ensure none fits better than "await". Verification / Alternative check: Try substituting each of the incorrect choices. "Meera cannot depict the exam results" would mean she is unable to represent them in a picture or story, which is not the point. "Meera cannot envision the exam results" would mean she cannot imagine what the results will be, which is possible but does not match the common collocation "cannot wait for the results". "Meera cannot observe the exam results" would mean she cannot see them, which is also not the natural way of expressing impatience. Only "await" fits both the grammar and the likely exam context. Why Other Options Are Wrong: "Depict" is used for artistic or descriptive representation, not for waiting. "Envision" is used to talk about imagining future possibilities and does not naturally occupy this slot without changing the intended meaning. "Observe" means to watch or notice something, not to wait for it to happen. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes misinterpret the sentence and choose "envision" because they think of predicting results. However, the typical exam sentence pattern "cannot wait for the results" is much more common, and "await" is the formal single word equivalent. Developing a sense of common exam collocations will help you make the right choice quickly when several words seem loosely related. Final Answer: The correct word is "await", so the complete sentence is: "Meera cannot await the exam results."

Question 5

In the following English vocabulary question, the sentence has a blank that must be filled with the most appropriate word: "Being linked with nature brings joy and peace as it is the ______ of the laws of Nature." Choose the option that best complet…

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Introduction / Context: This English vocabulary question asks you to choose the most suitable word to complete a sentence about the relationship between human beings and nature. The sentence is: "Being linked with nature brings joy and peace as it is the ______ of the laws of Nature." The correct answer must express the idea that respecting or accepting the laws of nature results in joy and peace. Given Data / Assumptions: - The sentence talks about being linked with nature. - The result of this link is joy and peace. - The missing word describes our response to the laws of nature. - The options are: dissent, refusal, acknowledgement, sustenance, disobedience. Concept / Approach: To solve vocabulary based fill in the blank questions, you should focus on context, tone, and logical meaning. The phrase brings joy and peace carries a positive meaning. Therefore, the blank must also have a positive sense that fits with joy and peace. When someone accepts or recognizes the laws of nature, that attitude is an acknowledgement of those laws. Words like dissent, refusal, and disobedience are negative and would not logically cause joy and peace. The word sustenance refers to nourishment or support and does not clearly describe an inner attitude toward laws. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the overall tone of the sentence. The words joy and peace show a clearly positive tone. Step 2: Understand the relationship being described. Being linked with nature and following its laws leads to a calm, harmonious state. Step 3: Check which option expresses a positive inner response to laws. Acknowledgement means recognition and acceptance, which fits perfectly. Step 4: Compare acknowledgement with sustenance. Sustenance means nourishment or means of support, which does not match the idea of an inner mental response to laws. Step 5: Eliminate options that are clearly negative or hostile to laws, such as dissent, refusal, and disobedience. Step 6: Conclude that the only word which completes the meaning smoothly is acknowledgement. Verification / Alternative check: Substitute each option into the sentence and read it aloud. "Being linked with nature brings joy and peace as it is the acknowledgement of the laws of Nature" sounds natural and meaningful. The word acknowledgement clearly communicates that you accept and respect natural laws, which explains why you feel joy and peace. None of the other words produce a logical or pleasant meaning when read in the full sentence, confirming that acknowledgement is correct. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Dissent means disagreement or opposition, which would not normally bring joy and peace. Refusal means a denial or rejection, again conflicting with the idea of harmony with nature. Sustenance refers to nourishment or means of living, and does not describe a mental attitude toward rules or laws. Disobedience is refusal to follow rules, which clearly contradicts the idea of living peacefully in harmony with nature. Therefore, all of these options clash with the positive meaning of the sentence. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to pick a difficult or rare word simply because it looks impressive, rather than checking whether it fits the sentence logically. Students may also be misled by sustenance because it is often used with nature, but here the key idea is mental acceptance of laws, not physical support. Always focus on the exact relationship expressed in the sentence and check whether the emotional tone of the option matches the rest of the sentence. Final Answer: The word that best completes the sentence is "acknowledgement", so the correct answer is acknowledgement.

Question 6

In this English vocabulary question on synonyms, choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the word "Felicity".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question belongs to the category of synonym based vocabulary items. You are asked to select the word that is closest in meaning to the given word "Felicity". Strong vocabulary skills are important for competitive exams, reading comprehension, and effective communication, so understanding words like "Felicity" helps you express ideas about happiness and good fortune precisely. Given Data / Assumptions: - Target word: Felicity. - Options: Bliss, Misery, Grief, Trouble, Suffering. - You must choose the closest meaning, not just a vaguely related word. Concept / Approach: The word felicity is a noun that means great happiness, intense joy, or blissful contentment. It can also mean a pleasing ability to express something well, but in common exam usage it primarily refers to happiness or bliss. Therefore, the correct option will have a positive meaning of great joy. Words that express sadness, difficulty, or pain are antonyms and must be rejected. Matching the emotional tone and core meaning is the key strategy here. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall or look up the meaning of felicity. It means great happiness or bliss. Step 2: Check option "Bliss". Bliss means perfect happiness or great joy, which matches the meaning of felicity very closely. Step 3: Examine "Misery". Misery means extreme unhappiness or suffering, which is the direct opposite of felicity. Step 4: Examine "Grief". Grief means deep sorrow, especially caused by death or loss, which again is opposite to happiness. Step 5: Examine "Trouble". Trouble means difficulty, worry, or problems, not happiness. Step 6: Examine "Suffering". Suffering means physical or mental pain, clearly not related to joy. Step 7: Conclude that "Bliss" is the only word that shares the positive joyful meaning of felicity. Verification / Alternative check: Use the words in simple example sentences to confirm. "She was filled with felicity when she heard the good news" and "She was filled with bliss when she heard the good news" convey the same emotional picture of deep happiness. Sentences with misery, grief, trouble, or suffering would describe sadness or hardship, not joy. This simple substitution test shows that bliss is the proper synonym for felicity in this context. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Misery, grief, trouble, and suffering all have negative meanings. Misery is intense unhappiness, grief is deep sorrow, trouble refers to difficulties, and suffering refers to pain. None of them convey the pleasant, joyful feeling associated with felicity. In fact, they are closer to antonyms. Since the question clearly asks for a word that best expresses the meaning of felicity, these negative options must be eliminated. Common Pitfalls: A common error is to confuse felicity with facility because they sound somewhat similar. Facility means ease or skill in doing something, which is different from felicity. Another pitfall is selecting an option without fully recalling the meaning, just because it seems less negative than others. Always identify whether the word expresses a positive or negative feeling and match that with the given context. Final Answer: The word that best expresses the meaning of "Felicity" is "Bliss", so the correct answer is Bliss.

Question 7

In this English vocabulary question on synonyms, out of the given options choose the word that best expresses the meaning of "Chafe".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The word "Chafe" is often used in English to describe both a physical and an emotional reaction. This question asks you to find the synonym that best matches its meaning. In competitive exams and reading comprehension, recognising common verbs like chafe helps you understand subtle shades of annoyance or friction in texts, especially in descriptive and narrative passages. Given Data / Assumptions: - Target word: Chafe. - Options: Chain, Safe, Irritate, Joy, Comfort. - We must select the closest meaning in normal usage. Concept / Approach: Chafe has two related senses. Literally, it means to make a part of the body sore by rubbing, for example when shoes chafe your heels. Figuratively, it means to feel annoyed, irritated, or impatient, especially because of restriction or delay. In order to choose the correct synonym, we must look for a word that captures this feeling of irritation or annoyance. Words which mean safety, happiness, or comfort will not match this negative sense. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the meanings of chafe. It can mean rub and make sore, or cause irritation. Step 2: Examine "Chain". Chain is a noun referring to a series of linked metal rings or to bind with a chain. It does not match the sense of irritation. Step 3: Examine "Safe". Safe is an adjective that means protected from danger or harm, so it is unrelated to the idea of irritation. Step 4: Examine "Irritate". Irritate means to make someone annoyed, impatient, or angry, or to make a part of the body sore. This matches both the literal and figurative meanings of chafe. Step 5: Examine "Joy". Joy is a feeling of great happiness and delight, the opposite of irritation. Step 6: Examine "Comfort". Comfort is a state of physical ease or freedom from pain and worry, again opposite in sense to chafe. Step 7: Conclude that "Irritate" is the only option that aligns with the meaning of chafe. Verification / Alternative check: Use the substitution method in example sentences. "The rough collar began to chafe his neck" can be rewritten as "The rough collar began to irritate his neck." Both sentences describe physical discomfort caused by rubbing. In a figurative sentence like "She began to chafe at the strict rules," we can say "She began to feel irritated by the strict rules." Again, irritate fits smoothly, confirming that it is the correct synonym. None of the other options fit naturally in these contexts. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Chain refers to an object or the act of tying something with chains, not irritation. Safe describes security and protection, which is unrelated to the concept of rubbing or annoyance. Joy is a strong positive emotion and is almost the opposite of being irritated. Comfort is a pleasant state of ease and therefore conflicts with the discomfort suggested by chafe. Since the question asks for a synonym of chafe, all these non matching words must be rejected. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse chafe with chaff or chase because they look or sound similar. Chaff is the husk of grains or sometimes playful teasing, and chase means to run after. Neither of these are correct here. Another pitfall is selecting a word just because it rhymes or looks similar. In vocabulary questions, always prioritise meaning over sound or spelling similarities. Final Answer: The word that best expresses the meaning of "Chafe" is "Irritate", so the correct answer is Irritate.

Question 8

In this English vocabulary question on antonyms, out of the given options select the word that is opposite in meaning to "Forgo".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of antonyms, that is, words with opposite meanings. You are asked to choose the word that is opposite in meaning to "Forgo". Knowing precise opposites is important in exams, as antonym questions often appear in verbal ability sections and help measure how accurately you understand meanings and usage of English words. Given Data / Assumptions: - Target word: Forgo. - Options: Forfeit, Neglect, Conquer, Pass, Accept. - The task is to find the opposite meaning, not a synonym. Concept / Approach: Forgo means to do without something, to give up, or to abstain from something that you could have. It carries the sense of voluntarily giving something up. A true antonym should express the idea of not giving it up, but instead gaining, claiming, or achieving something. Some options may be similar in meaning to forgo, while others may move in the opposite direction. You should eliminate words that also involve giving up or neglecting and focus on the one that reflects active gaining or achieving. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Clarify the meaning of forgo. It means to abstain from, give up, or go without something. Step 2: Examine "Forfeit". Forfeit means to lose or give up something, especially as a penalty. This is similar in sense to forgo, not opposite. Step 3: Examine "Neglect". Neglect means to fail to care for or pay proper attention to something, which again involves not taking something up or not using it properly. Step 4: Examine "Conquer". Conquer means to win, overcome, or gain control by effort. This is the opposite of voluntarily giving up, because it implies actively gaining or claiming something. Step 5: Examine "Pass". Pass can mean to go by, to not take part, or to miss an opportunity, which is close to forgo rather than its opposite. Step 6: Examine "Accept". Accept means to receive something, which also moves in the direction opposite to giving up, but in exam patterns conquer is used to highlight active achievement rather than passive receiving. Step 7: Conclude that "Conquer" stands in strongest contrast to the idea of forgoing something. Verification / Alternative check: Consider example contexts. If you forgo a chance, you give it up. The opposite behaviour would be to seize or conquer that chance. If someone forgoes pleasures, they deny themselves. The opposite idea is to win or gain benefits rather than to drop them. In contrast, forfeit, neglect, and pass all involve some form of losing or not taking advantage of something, so they move in the same general direction as forgo. This confirms that conquer works as the best antonym among the given choices. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Forfeit is clearly a near synonym because it describes losing or giving up something. Neglect also suggests failure to use or care for something, often leading to loss. Pass suggests letting an opportunity go, which is very close to forgo. Accept does mean to receive, but it does not strongly oppose the voluntary giving up implied by forgo in the way that conquer does, especially in the sense of achieving or obtaining what might otherwise have been missed. Therefore only conquer truly presents an opposing sense of actively gaining or securing something instead of giving it up. Common Pitfalls: Learners often confuse synonyms and antonyms when they see several negative sounding words. It is easy to pick forfeit or pass because they are commonly seen with opportunities and offers, just like forgo. However, all of them lean toward the idea of losing or giving up. In antonym questions, you must slow down and ask whether the word really expresses the reverse situation, not just something vaguely different. Always test with a simple sentence to see whether the meaning flips around or remains similar. Final Answer: The word that is opposite in meaning to "Forgo" is "Conquer", so the correct answer is Conquer.

Question 9

In this English vocabulary question on antonyms, out of the four alternatives select the word that is opposite in meaning to "Banter".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The word "Banter" is often used to describe light hearted, playful conversation, usually involving teasing between friends. This question asks for the antonym of banter, that is, a word with opposite meaning. Understanding such nuances is important in reading comprehension, because authors frequently describe the tone of dialogue using words like banter, sarcasm, praise, or criticism. Given Data / Assumptions: - Target word: Banter. - Options: Teasing, Praise, Fun, Gossip, Ridicule. - You must select the opposite meaning, not a related idea. Concept / Approach: Banter means playful, friendly exchange of teasing remarks. It usually suggests a joking, informal tone rather than serious or formal speech. An antonym would be a word that describes something unlike playful teasing. Among the options, several words describe joking or casual talk similar to banter, while one word suggests a different, more serious and positive kind of speech, which is praise. Therefore, the strategy is to identify which option does not share the idea of light teasing or casual talk and instead describes a different kind of communication. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Clarify the meaning of banter. It is light joking or playful teasing in conversation. Step 2: Consider "Teasing". Teasing is central to the idea of banter and is actually part of its definition. Therefore it is similar, not opposite. Step 3: Consider "Fun". Fun refers to enjoyment, amusement, and light hearted activity. Banter is often a form of fun, so again this is related, not opposite. Step 4: Consider "Gossip". Gossip means casual conversation about other people, often involving personal or private details. Although not identical, it is still informal talk and not a clear opposite to banter. Step 5: Consider "Ridicule". Ridicule is mocking or making fun of someone in a harsh way. It can be a negative, sharper form of teasing but not a direct opposite of banter, which is friendly. Step 6: Consider "Praise". Praise means expression of approval or admiration, usually serious and respectful rather than teasing or joking. Step 7: Conclude that praise stands most opposite to playful, teasing talk. Verification / Alternative check: Imagine a group of friends engaged in banter. They toss playful jokes at one another. If you switch the tone completely, you might have them speak words of sincere praise instead of jokes. Banter focuses on light teasing, while praise focuses on earnest appreciation. This shift captures an opposite style of communication. Teasing, fun, and gossip all keep the informal, sometimes joking tone, so they do not reverse the meaning in the same way. This confirms that praise is the best antonym in the given set. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Teasing is almost a direct synonym, since banter usually involves friendly teasing. Fun is a general word for enjoyment and is commonly associated with banter. Gossip is informal talk, often about others, which shares the casual conversation style of banter. Ridicule is harsher and more negative, but it still involves making fun of someone, so it is not an opposite, simply a different shade of teasing. Only praise shifts the tone from playful joking to serious positive approval, which contrasts most strongly with banter. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to pick ridicule as the antonym because it sounds negative. However, antonym questions are not always about positive versus negative tones. Banter and ridicule both involve making remarks about others, but the difference is in friendliness versus harshness. The question asks for opposite meaning, not simply a different style of teasing. Always think about what aspect of meaning is central and whether the option reverses that aspect, rather than just changing the emotional tone slightly. Final Answer: The word that is opposite in meaning to "Banter" is "Praise", so the correct answer is Praise.

Question 10

In the following sentence rearrangement question, the parts of a sentence are labelled P, Q, and R. Choose the option that gives the correct order to form a meaningful sentence: "Gender inequality has P: it reduces economic growth Q: development goa…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your ability to rearrange jumbled parts of a sentence into a logical and grammatically correct order. The topic is gender inequality and its impact on development. To succeed in such questions, you must pay attention to how phrases link together in a meaningful sentence, identifying subjects, objects, and connectors like "as" and "on". Given Data / Assumptions: - Starting fragment: "Gender inequality has". - Part P: "it reduces economic growth". - Part Q: "development goals as". - Part R: "adverse impact on". - We must join these to form one coherent sentence. Concept / Approach: A well formed English sentence will place the main verb and object in a natural order. The opening "Gender inequality has" suggests that the next phrase will be an object that expresses what gender inequality has. The phrase "adverse impact on" fits naturally after "has" to give "Gender inequality has adverse impact on". After that, English usually specifies what the impact is on, which would be "development goals". The word "as" then introduces a reason clause that explains how gender inequality affects those goals. The clause "it reduces economic growth" logically follows "as", giving a full sentence that explains cause and effect. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Attach R after the opening. "Gender inequality has adverse impact on" is grammatically correct and semantically clear. Step 2: Decide what should follow "adverse impact on". The natural answer is "development goals", which is contained in Q as "development goals as". Step 3: Place Q after R to get "Gender inequality has adverse impact on development goals as". Step 4: The word "as" introduces a reason clause. The remaining part P is "it reduces economic growth", which works perfectly as a reason. Step 5: Place P at the end, forming the full sentence: "Gender inequality has adverse impact on development goals as it reduces economic growth." Step 6: This corresponds to the order R Q P, so the correct option is RQP. Verification / Alternative check: Check the other possible orders briefly. If you start with P or Q, you get fragments like "Gender inequality has it reduces economic growth" or "Gender inequality has development goals as", which are ungrammatical. Only when you start with R do you get a sensible continuation of "Gender inequality has". Once that choice is fixed, the remaining parts can be tested. R P Q gives "adverse impact on it reduces economic growth development goals as", which is clearly wrong. R Q P yields a fluid, logical sentence. This quick check confirms that RQP is the only fully correct order. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option RPQ produces "Gender inequality has adverse impact on it reduces economic growth development goals as", where the object of "impact on" is missing and the clause is jumbled. Option PRQ starts with "Gender inequality has it reduces economic growth", which is grammatically incorrect because "has" needs a noun phrase object, not a full clause. Option QPR begins with "Gender inequality has development goals as", which is incomplete and leaves "adverse impact on" and "it reduces economic growth" in an illogical order. Option PQR also fails to place the impact phrase correctly. None of these produce a natural, meaningful sentence. Common Pitfalls: Students often try to force the parts into any grammatically possible order without paying attention to logical flow. Another common problem is ignoring linking words like "as", "because", and "so", which signal cause and effect or reasoning. In sentence rearrangement tasks, first look for subject and main verb, then match prepositions with their objects and connectors with their clauses. This systematic approach reduces guesswork and leads to consistent success. Final Answer: The most logical and grammatically correct order is RQP, giving the sentence "Gender inequality has adverse impact on development goals as it reduces economic growth."

Question 11

In this English grammar question on Voice, the sentence "Who did this?" is given in Active Voice. Out of the options, choose the Passive Voice form that best expresses the same meaning.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This grammar question checks your understanding of converting a question from Active Voice to Passive Voice. The original sentence is "Who did this?" You must select the passive form that is both grammatically correct and natural in standard English, especially with regard to word order and the correct use of "who" and "whom". Given Data / Assumptions: - Active Voice question: "Who did this?" - Subject in Active Voice: "Who". - Object in Active Voice: "this". - Verb: "did", which is the past tense of "do". Concept / Approach: To change an Active Voice question to Passive Voice, the object of the active sentence becomes the subject of the passive sentence, and the subject of the active sentence becomes the agent, usually introduced by "by". The verb "did" in the active sentence changes to "was done" in passive, since "this" is singular and the tense is simple past. In a formal question, "whom" is used after "by" because it functions as an object. The word order for a passive question is "By whom was this done?" which places the auxiliary before the subject, as is standard in English questions. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the object "this" in the active sentence. Step 2: Make "this" the subject in the passive sentence: "This was done ..." Step 3: Change the verb "did" to the passive "was done". Simple past active becomes simple past passive using "was" plus past participle. Step 4: Introduce the former subject "who" as an agent using "by". Because it follows a preposition, the correct form in formal English is "whom". Step 5: Arrange the sentence in question form with auxiliary before subject: "By whom was this done?" Step 6: Confirm that the sentence is grammatical and preserves the meaning. Verification / Alternative check: To verify, convert the passive question back into the active form. From "By whom was this done?" move "this" to the object position and "whom" to the subject position. The structure becomes "Who did this?" which matches the original sentence exactly. The tense remains simple past, and the meaning is unchanged. This shows that the passive form has been correctly constructed. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A "This was done by who?" is grammatically less formal because "who" follows a preposition and should be in the objective form "whom" in standard usage, and it is not in question inversion format. Option B "By who this was done?" has incorrect word order for a question. Option C "By whom this was done?" again lacks proper inversion between auxiliary and subject, so it sounds like a statement fragment. Option E "Who was this done by?" is commonly used in informal speech, but in strict exam oriented grammar, "By whom was this done?" is preferred as the most correct passive interrogative form. Therefore option D is the best answer. Common Pitfalls: Students often struggle with the choice between "who" and "whom" in questions and also forget to invert the auxiliary verb and subject in passive interrogatives. Another frequent mistake is to keep the original subject order and simply add "by", which leads to ungrammatical sentences such as "This was done by who?". In exam conditions, always convert the object to the subject, use the correct passive form of the verb, and then ensure question word order by placing the auxiliary before the new subject. Final Answer: The correct Passive Voice form of "Who did this?" is "By whom was this done?", so the correct answer is "By whom was this done?".

Question 12

In this English grammar question on Direct and Indirect Speech, choose the option that best converts the direct sentence "Ram said, \"I have cleared the clutter.\" " into Indirect Speech.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of how to change a sentence from Direct Speech to Indirect Speech when the reporting verb is in the past tense and the reported clause is in present perfect tense. The original sentence is "Ram said, \"I have cleared the clutter.\" " You must decide which option correctly shows the tense change, pronoun change, and overall structure of reported speech. Given Data / Assumptions: - Direct sentence: Ram said, "I have cleared the clutter." - Reporting verb: said, which is in the simple past. - Reported clause: "I have cleared the clutter." - Subject in the reported clause: "I", referring to Ram. Concept / Approach: When changing from direct to indirect speech, the tense of the reported clause usually shifts back one step if the reporting verb is in the past. Present perfect tense "have cleared" normally changes to past perfect "had cleared". The first person pronoun "I" in the report refers to Ram, so in indirect speech it changes to "he". The overall structure is "Ram said that he had cleared the clutter." The conjunction "that" is often used to introduce the reported clause, especially in formal exam style sentences. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Keep the reporting verb and subject as they are: Ram said that ... Step 2: Change the pronoun "I" to "he" because Ram is the speaker and is being referred to in the third person. Step 3: Change "have cleared" from present perfect to past perfect "had cleared" in indirect speech. Step 4: Keep "the clutter" unchanged since the object does not require any transformation. Step 5: Combine to obtain the sentence: "Ram said that he had cleared the clutter." Verification / Alternative check: To verify, convert the indirect sentence back into direct speech. From "Ram said that he had cleared the clutter", change "he had cleared" back to "I have cleared" and remove "that". The result is "Ram said, \"I have cleared the clutter.\" " which matches the original direct sentence. This confirms that the option with "had cleared" and the correct pronoun is accurate. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A, "Ram told that he cleared the clutter.", is wrong because "told" needs an object such as "told me" and also keeps the verb "cleared" in simple past instead of past perfect. Option B, "Ram says that he cleared the clutter.", changes the reporting verb to present tense "says", which does not match the original sentence. Option D, "The clutter was cleared by Ram", changes the sentence to passive voice and completely drops the reporting verb structure, so it is not an indirect speech version of the given direct quote. Option E, "Ram said that he has cleared the clutter.", keeps the present perfect "has cleared" even though the reporting verb is in the past, which is against the usual tense backshift rule used in exam grammar. Only option C correctly uses "had cleared" and the right pronoun. Common Pitfalls: Learners often forget to adjust the tense of the reported clause when the reporting verb is in the past. Another common mistake is to ignore pronoun changes and keep "I" instead of switching to "he" or "she". Some students also confuse the use of "said" and "told"; remember that "told" generally needs an object like "told me" or "told us". In exam settings, follow the standard rule: past reporting verb plus present perfect in the quote generally becomes past perfect in reported speech. Final Answer: The correct Indirect Speech form is "Ram said that he had cleared the clutter.", so the correct answer is "Ram said that he had cleared the clutter."

Question 13

In this spelling based English question, four different spellings of a word are given. Select the correctly spelt form of the word that means "very strange or unusual".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your knowledge of correct English spelling. You are given several variants of a word that means "very strange or unusual" and must pick the correct form. Spelling questions are common in competitive exams because they quickly show how familiar you are with standard written English. The word being tested here is commonly used in descriptions of unusual events, behaviour, or appearances. Given Data / Assumptions: - The intended word means "very strange or unusual". - Options: Beizarre, Bizaarre, Bizarre, Bigarre, Bizzarre. - Only one spelling matches standard dictionary English. Concept / Approach: The correct spelling of the word is "bizarre". It comes from French and is spelled B I Z A R R E. Many misspellings arise when people misplace the vowels or double the wrong consonants. To solve such questions, it helps to visualise the word as you have seen it in books or articles and to recall that only the final consonant "r" is doubled, with a single "z" at the start and the vowel pattern "i" then "a". Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the correct dictionary spelling. The word is spelled "bizarre". Step 2: Compare option "Beizarre". This version starts with "Bei", which does not match the correct beginning "Biz". Therefore it is incorrect. Step 3: Compare "Bizaarre". This adds an extra "a" and "r", forming "zaarre". The correct pattern is "zarre" with only one "a" and double "r". Step 4: Compare "Bizarre". This matches the remembered spelling: b i z a r r e. Step 5: Compare "Bigarre". This uses "ga" instead of "za", so it is clearly wrong. Step 6: Compare "Bizzarre". This has double "z" and double "r", whereas the real word has a single "z" and double "r". Step 7: Conclude that only "Bizarre" is correctly spelt. Verification / Alternative check: You can mentally place the word in a simple sentence to help visual memory. For example: "The magician performed a bizarre trick." When you picture this sentence as it often appears in books or online articles, the image of "bizarre" with one "z" and two "r" letters is very familiar. None of the alternative spellings look natural in that context, which confirms that option C is correct. Why Other Options Are Wrong: "Beizarre" introduces an incorrect "ei" sequence at the beginning. "Bizaarre" uses too many vowels and consonants in the ending, resulting in a non standard form. "Bigarre" uses the letter "g" instead of "z", completely changing the word. "Bizzarre" doubles the wrong consonant, giving "zz" instead of the correct "rr" structure. Since standard English spelling is fixed for common words, any deviation from "bizarre" is considered incorrect. Common Pitfalls: Learners often confuse the patterns of double consonants in words borrowed from other languages. Many think that because the sound is strong at the start, the "z" must be doubled, but in "bizarre" it is the "r" that is doubled. Others get misled by similar looking words in their own language. A good habit is to read widely and notice standard spellings of frequently used descriptive words. Over time this creates a mental dictionary that makes such questions much easier. Final Answer: The correctly spelt word is "Bizarre", so the correct answer is Bizarre.

Question 14

In this idiom and phrase question, out of the four alternatives select the option which best expresses the meaning of the idiom "At large".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of English idioms. The phrase "at large" is often used in news reports and formal writing, and it has a specific idiomatic meaning that is different from the literal sense of the words "at" and "large". You are required to identify the meaning of this idiom from the given options. Given Data / Assumptions: - Idiom: "At large". - Options describe different possible meanings. - You must select the meaning commonly used in standard English, especially in crime and news contexts. Concept / Approach: Idioms are expressions whose meanings cannot be fully understood from the individual words. "At large" in everyday and journalistic English usually refers to a criminal or suspect who has not yet been caught and is still free. It can also sometimes mean "in general" when used in other contexts, such as "society at large", but in exam questions about crime and description of persons, the most common tested meaning is "escaped or not yet captured". You should look at the answer choices and match them against this well known usage. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the most common usage of "at large". In news headlines you often see phrases like "The thief is still at large". Step 2: Understand that in this context, "at large" means free, not arrested, still moving about in public. Step 3: Examine option "A very big opportunity." This is unrelated to crime or freedom, so it is incorrect. Step 4: Examine "A criminal escaped or not yet captured." This describes exactly the situation when a wanted person is still free. Step 5: Examine "To have a big heart." This means being generous or kind, unrelated to the idiom. Step 6: Examine "A big appetite." This refers to eating a lot and has nothing to do with "at large". Step 7: Examine "To be very influential." Although "large" can metaphorically suggest importance, the idiom "at large" does not carry this meaning. Verification / Alternative check: Place each option into a typical sentence to see what fits. "The escaped prisoner is still at large" clearly means "The escaped prisoner is still not captured." Substituting "a very big opportunity" or "a big appetite" makes the sentence absurd. "Society at large" is another common phrase in which "at large" means "in general", but that nuance is not provided in the options. Among the given choices, only the criminal related meaning fits standard usage and typical exam patterns. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The idea of a big opportunity, big heart, big appetite, or strong influence is not linked with the idiom "at large" in conventional English. While individual words like "large" can suggest size or importance, idiomatic expressions must be learned as fixed units. The exam expects the familiar crime reporting sense. Therefore, all options except the one about an escaped or uncaptured criminal distort or misinterpret the expression. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes try to guess the meaning of idioms from the literal meanings of the words. This can be misleading because idioms often have a history or special usage that is not obvious. Another pitfall is overgeneralising from one context like "society at large" and trying to force that meaning into options that do not match exactly. The safest strategy is to remember common collocations that you have seen in newspapers and books and test the options against that memory. Final Answer: The idiom "At large" means "a criminal escaped or not yet captured", so the correct answer is "A criminal escaped or not yet captured."

Question 15

In this idiom and phrase question, out of the given alternatives select the option which best expresses the meaning of the idiom "Head over heels".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The idiom "Head over heels" is widely used in English, especially in romantic contexts. This question asks you to identify its correct meaning from the given choices. Idioms like this are common in spoken English, films, and literature, so recognising them is useful for both exams and everyday understanding of the language. Given Data / Assumptions: - Idiom: "Head over heels". - Options suggest different possible interpretations. - You must choose the standard idiomatic meaning as used in common English. Concept / Approach: "Head over heels" literally suggests someone flipping upside down, but idiomatically it means deeply and completely in love, often in a sudden or overwhelming way. When someone says "He is head over heels for her", they mean he is madly in love. The other options suggest foolishness, confusion, or trouble, but they do not match the well known romantic meaning of this phrase. The strategy is to recall common usage in love stories or songs and match the option that captures that emotional idea. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the typical context in which "head over heels" appears. It is usually paired with phrases like "in love". Step 2: Consider option "Madly in love." This directly expresses the idea of being completely, sometimes irrationally, in love. Step 3: Consider "To do things exactly opposite of what is expected." This relates more to contrary behaviour, not love. Step 4: Consider "To do stupid things." Although people in love may sometimes behave foolishly, the idiom itself does not define foolish action; it defines intensity of feeling. Step 5: Consider "To unknowingly dive into an unpleasant situation." This describes recklessness or ignorance, not romantic involvement. Step 6: Consider "To be very confused." Confusion may happen emotionally, but this is not the accepted dictionary meaning of the idiom. Step 7: Conclude that "Madly in love" is the only accurate choice. Verification / Alternative check: Put the idiom in a full sentence using each option. "After spending only a week together, he was head over heels in love with her" matches "madly in love" perfectly. If you try "he was head over heels to do stupid things" or "head over heels to dive into an unpleasant situation", the sentences sound unnatural and do not match common usage. Checking popular expressions confirms that the idiom is almost always followed by "in love", reinforcing the correct meaning. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Doing the opposite of what is expected, doing stupid things, or diving into unpleasant situations describe behaviour that might be unwise, but the idiom "head over heels" specifically refers to the emotional state of being deeply in love. Although one could argue that love sometimes causes unwise actions, exam questions look for the direct, dictionary style meaning. Being very confused also fails to capture the romantic element. Therefore, only "madly in love" accurately represents the idiom. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is overthinking the literal picture of someone flipping head over heels and connecting it with confusion or loss of balance. Idioms, however, must be remembered as fixed phrases with established meanings. Another pitfall is connecting the idiom with general recklessness instead of specifically romantic obsession. Reading and listening to authentic English material helps to reinforce the correct context for such expressions. Final Answer: The idiom "Head over heels" means "madly in love", so the correct answer is "Madly in love."

Question 16

In this one word substitution question, choose the alternative that best replaces the phrase "Beyond or above the range of normal or physical human experience".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: One word substitution questions test your ability to replace long descriptive phrases with precise single words. The phrase given here is "Beyond or above the range of normal or physical human experience". You must find the word that captures the idea of surpassing ordinary limits or being above regular human experience, often in a spiritual or extraordinary sense. Given Data / Assumptions: - Target phrase: Beyond or above the range of normal or physical human experience. - Options: Mundane, Transcendent, Ribald, Coarse, Earthly. - Only one word expresses the idea of surpassing normal limitations. Concept / Approach: The word that fits this definition is "Transcendent". Transcendent describes something that goes beyond ordinary limits, surpasses normal human experience, or is of a higher, often spiritual, nature. The other options either refer to ordinary, worldly, or vulgar qualities, which are the exact opposite of what the phrase describes. The strategy is to match the key ideas "beyond", "above", and "normal human experience" with a word you know from philosophy, religion, or advanced English usage. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the core idea in the phrase: something that is beyond or above usual human experience. Step 2: Examine "Mundane". Mundane means ordinary, common, or worldly, which is the opposite of being above normal experience. Step 3: Examine "Transcendent". Transcendent means surpassing usual limits or existing beyond the physical level, which directly mirrors the given phrase. Step 4: Examine "Ribald". Ribald means referring to sexual matters in a rude or irreverent way, related to vulgar humour, not elevated experience. Step 5: Examine "Coarse". Coarse means rough, crude, or vulgar, again opposite in tone to something described as beyond normal experience. Step 6: Examine "Earthly". Earthly means worldly or related to the physical world, which again is opposed to a state that is beyond physical human experience. Step 7: Conclude that "Transcendent" is the only word that matches the definition. Verification / Alternative check: Try using the options in context. "He had a transcendent experience while meditating" suggests an experience beyond ordinary sensation, which fits perfectly. If you try "mundane experience" or "earthly experience", you immediately get the idea of normal, everyday events, which contradicts the given phrase. "Ribald" and "coarse" obviously do not describe something elevated or beyond physical limits. This context test confirms that transcendent is the correct substitution. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Mundane and earthly both refer to ordinary, worldly matters, which are within the usual range of human experience, not beyond it. Ribald and coarse describe rough or vulgar language and behaviour, which again are part of common human life and often associated with low taste rather than elevated, other worldly experience. None of these capture the special, surpassing nature suggested by the phrase. Only transcendent implies going beyond the normal boundary of physical or human limits. Common Pitfalls: Students may be tempted by words they have seen more often, such as mundane or earthly, and may misread the question as asking for something related to human experience instead of beyond it. It is important to focus on key directional words like "above", "beyond", and "range of normal". Whenever such words appear, look for options that imply surpassing, exceeding, or going beyond, such as transcendent, supernatural, or extraordinary, depending on the exact question. Final Answer: The best one word substitute for the given phrase is "Transcendent", so the correct answer is Transcendent.

Question 17

In this one word substitution question, select the alternative that best replaces the phrase "Capable of being imagined or grasped mentally".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This is a one word substitution question that asks you to replace the phrase "Capable of being imagined or grasped mentally" with a single word. Being able to compress long definitions into precise vocabulary items is valuable for exams and for reading advanced texts, where such words appear frequently. Given Data / Assumptions: - Target phrase: Capable of being imagined or grasped mentally. - Options: Dazzling, Conceivable, Stunning, Spectacular, Fantastic. - The correct word must express possibility of mental understanding or imagination. Concept / Approach: The key idea in the phrase is that something can be imagined or understood in the mind. The word "Conceivable" directly carries this meaning. It comes from the verb "conceive", which means to form an idea or concept of something in the mind. The other options are mainly about visual impressiveness or emotional impact, rather than mental possibility or understandability. Thus, the solution is to identify which option focuses on mental grasp rather than physical appearance or beauty. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the essential idea: something can be thought of, pictured in the mind, or understood. Step 2: Examine "Dazzling". Dazzling refers to something extremely bright or impressive, usually visually. It does not describe mental possibility. Step 3: Examine "Conceivable". Conceivable means capable of being imagined or considered as possible, which is exactly what the phrase states. Step 4: Examine "Stunning". Stunning means extremely impressive or attractive, often visually, but does not relate to mental grasp. Step 5: Examine "Spectacular". Spectacular also refers to something very impressive or dramatic, related to display or performance. Step 6: Examine "Fantastic". Fantastic often means extremely good or strange, but it does not directly mean mentally graspable; sometimes it even implies something unreal. Step 7: Conclude that "Conceivable" is the only option that accurately reflects the mental aspect described. Verification / Alternative check: Use the options in a simple sentence. "Such a plan is conceivable" means such a plan can be imagined or is possible in theory. This matches the phrase perfectly. If you substitute "dazzling", "stunning", or "spectacular", the sentence shifts to describing appearance or effect, not possibility of mental understanding. "Fantastic" can suggest unreal or exaggerated, rather than clearly understandable. This confirms that conceivable is correct. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Dazzling, stunning, and spectacular all focus on strong impact, especially visual or emotional, and not on mental conceivability. Fantastic often indicates something extremely good or bizarre, but again it does not mean that it can be grasped mentally. In fact, fantastic ideas can be hard to believe. None of these words are defined as "capable of being imagined or grasped mentally". Only conceivable has that precise meaning, making all other options unsuitable as one word substitutes for the given phrase. Common Pitfalls: Many learners associate impressive sounding adjectives like stunning or spectacular with any sort of strong idea, and thus may be tempted to select them even in mental context questions. However, vocabulary questions require attention to exact dictionary meanings. Look at the root of the word: "conceivable" links to "conceive", which directly connects with forming ideas in the mind. This root clue helps avoid confusion and leads to the accurate choice. Final Answer: The best one word substitute for "Capable of being imagined or grasped mentally" is "Conceivable", so the correct answer is Conceivable.

Question 18

In this sentence improvement question, choose the alternative that best improves the bracketed part of the sentence. If no improvement is needed, select "no improvement". Sentence: "As he tried harder, his steps slowed, his senses (was activated)."

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question is about sentence improvement and subject verb agreement in English grammar. You are given the sentence "As he tried harder, his steps slowed, his senses (was activated)." and asked to choose the grammatically correct form of the bracketed part. The focus is on matching the verb correctly with the plural subject "senses" and maintaining the tense used in the rest of the sentence. Given Data / Assumptions: - Subject phrase: "his senses". - Current form in brackets: "was activated". - Earlier verbs in the sentence: "tried", "slowed", both in simple past. - Options: is activated, were activated, were activate, no improvement, had been activated. Concept / Approach: In English, the verb must agree in number with its subject. "Senses" is a plural noun, so it requires a plural verb form. In the simple past passive voice, the plural form is "were activated", not "was activated". Also, the rest of the sentence uses simple past, so we should keep the same tense for consistency. Therefore, the correct improvement is "were activated". Other options either break subject verb agreement or use a different tense that does not match the sentence context. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the subject: "his senses". Since "senses" is plural, the verb must be plural. Step 2: Recognise that the structure is passive. The base phrase is "senses were activated" in passive voice. Step 3: Check tense consistency. Earlier actions "tried" and "slowed" are in simple past, so "were activated" (simple past passive) matches well. Step 4: Compare with option "was activated". "Was" is singular and cannot agree with plural "senses". Step 5: Compare with "is activated". This is present tense and breaks the past tense sequence. Step 6: Compare with "were activate". This is grammatically incorrect because "activate" should be in past participle form "activated" in passive voice. Step 7: Compare with "had been activated". This is past perfect passive and suggests a different time relationship which is not required by the sentence. Verification / Alternative check: Insert each option into the original sentence and read it aloud. "As he tried harder, his steps slowed, his senses were activated" sounds natural and maintains past tense narrative flow. "His senses was activated" clearly sounds wrong because singular and plural do not match. "His senses is activated" shifts to present tense, which is inconsistent. "His senses were activate" is obviously incorrect, and "had been activated" suggests that the activation occurred before another past action, which the sentence does not indicate. This confirms that "were activated" is the best choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A "is activated" uses present tense and singular verb, both incorrect for a plural subject in a past tense narrative. Option C "were activate" fails because activate is not in past participle form, making the passive structure ungrammatical. Option D "no improvement" would keep the incorrect "was activated", which does not agree with the plural subject. Option E "had been activated" changes the tense and implies a different time order, which the sentence does not require. Only "were activated" satisfies both agreement and tense consistency. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes focus only on tense and forget to check subject number. When several clauses appear in one sentence, it is easy to overlook that "senses" is plural. Another pitfall is choosing a more complex tense such as past perfect, thinking it sounds more advanced, even when it is not needed. In grammar questions, simplicity and correctness are more important than complexity. Always check both number agreement and tense sequence before finalising your answer. Final Answer: The correct improvement is "were activated", so the sentence should read: "As he tried harder, his steps slowed, his senses were activated."

Question 19

In this sentence improvement question, decide which option best improves the bracketed part of the sentence. If no improvement is needed, choose "no improvement". Sentence: "My daughter (comes running) as fast as her little feet can take her while h…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of verb forms and natural expression in English. You are given a sentence with a highlighted phrase and asked to decide whether it needs improvement. The sentence is: "My daughter (comes running) as fast as her little feet can take her while her eyes sparkle vivaciously." The aim is to choose the grammatically correct and stylistically appropriate form of the verb phrase. Given Data / Assumptions: - The subject is "My daughter", which is singular. - The given phrase is "comes running". - The sentence is in simple present tense: "comes", "can take", "sparkle". - Options change tense or structure of the verb phrase. Concept / Approach: In English, the structure "comes running" is a perfectly natural combination of a main verb with a present participle to describe how the action is performed. It conveys both the idea of coming and the manner (running). Since the sentence describes a habitual or general action of the daughter, simple present tense is appropriate. The subject "My daughter" is singular, so "comes" is the correct form. Therefore, the original phrase does not need improvement, and "no improvement" is the best option. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Check subject verb agreement. The subject "My daughter" requires the singular verb "comes". Step 2: Confirm the tense of the sentence. The rest of the sentence uses present tense ("can take", "sparkle"), so present "comes" matches well. Step 3: Understand the pattern "comes running". This structure expresses that she comes and that she does so by running, which is descriptive and natural. Step 4: Evaluate option "comes run". This is incorrect because "run" should be in participle form "running" after "comes" in this sense. Step 5: Evaluate option "come running". This breaks subject verb agreement because "My daughter" is singular and would not take "come". Step 6: Evaluate options in past tense like "came run" or "came running". These change the tense without any signal that the sentence is about a past event. Step 7: Conclude that the original "comes running" is already correct, so "no improvement" is the right choice. Verification / Alternative check: Read the full sentence aloud: "My daughter comes running as fast as her little feet can take her while her eyes sparkle vivaciously." The sentence flows smoothly and describes a repeated, lively action in the present. If you insert "comes run" or "come running", the sentence sounds unnatural or ungrammatical. Switching to "came running" would shift the sentence into past tense, which conflicts with "can take" and "sparkle" unless you change those as well. This check confirms that the given phrase is already optimal. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A "comes run" is incorrect because after "comes" we need a present participle "running" to indicate the manner. Option B "come running" does not agree with the singular subject. Option C "came run" is doubly wrong, using past tense and base form without participle. Option E "came running" could be correct in a past tense narrative, but then the rest of the sentence would also need to change, and the question does not suggest that. Therefore none of these improve the sentence as it is written in present tense. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes assume that any phrase in brackets must be wrong and needs to be changed. However, many sentence improvement questions include an already correct option where "no improvement" is the right answer. Another pitfall is failing to notice that "comes running" is a common English pattern for describing actions, like "goes crying", "walked smiling", and so on. Recognising these patterns will help you avoid unnecessary corrections. Final Answer: The bracketed phrase is already correct, so the answer is "no improvement", and the sentence should remain "My daughter comes running as fast as her little feet can take her while her eyes sparkle vivaciously."

Question 20

In the following sentence ordering question, the sentence "Leadership and A: team-building skills deepened B: for relationships C: a sense of value" has its parts jumbled. Select the option that gives the most logical order of A, B, and C to form a …

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your skill in arranging jumbled sentence parts into a coherent and meaningful sentence. The base phrase "Leadership and" is followed by three labelled parts: A, B, and C. You must determine in which sequence these parts should appear to complete the sentence logically and grammatically, expressing a clear idea about leadership, team building, and relationships. Given Data / Assumptions: - Starting words: "Leadership and". - Part A: "team-building skills deepened". span style="display:block;">- Part B: "for relationships". - Part C: "a sense of value". - Goal: Create one smooth sentence by ordering A, B, and C. Concept / Approach: A grammatically correct sentence must connect "Leadership and" with a suitable complement. Part A contains "team-building skills deepened", which naturally continues "Leadership and team-building skills deepened". After that, we need an object that tells what these skills deepened. Part C "a sense of value" fits well as the thing that is deepened, giving "deepened a sense of value". Finally, part B "for relationships" describes the area in which that sense of value is deepened. So the logical order is A then C then B, leading to a full sentence: "Leadership and team-building skills deepened a sense of value for relationships." Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Attach A after the opening phrase. "Leadership and team-building skills deepened" is grammatically smooth and meaningful. Step 2: Look for the direct object of "deepened". A verb like "deepened" needs something that can be deepened. Part C "a sense of value" matches this requirement. Step 3: Place C next, forming "Leadership and team-building skills deepened a sense of value". This is a complete core clause. Step 4: The phrase "for relationships" in B functions as a prepositional phrase specifying in what area or context the sense of value is deepened. Step 5: Add B at the end: "Leadership and team-building skills deepened a sense of value for relationships." Step 6: This sequence corresponds to the order A C B, which matches option ACB. Verification / Alternative check: Test other possible orders briefly. If you try ABC, you get "Leadership and team-building skills deepened for relationships a sense of value", which is unnatural in English because the verb "deepened" should take its direct object "a sense of value" before the phrase "for relationships". If you try CBA, you get "Leadership and a sense of value for relationships team-building skills deepened", which is clearly wrong. CAB and BAC also place words in illogical positions. Only ACB produces a smooth and correct sentence that expresses how leadership and team-building skills affect relationships. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option ABC misplaces the prepositional phrase "for relationships" between the verb and its direct object, which is grammatically awkward. Option CBA starts with "a sense of value" directly after "Leadership and", which does not fit the structure of the sentence. Option CAB and option BAC both disrupt the natural verb object order and create confusing or incomplete fragments. None of them yield a clear, flowing statement about leadership, team building, and relationships. Common Pitfalls: Students may focus only on the meaning of individual fragments rather than on the grammar of verb object order. A good strategy is to first identify which fragment contains the main verb and place it close to the subject, then look for the most suitable object, and finally add prepositional phrases or modifiers. Paying attention to small connecting words like "for" can also guide you to place them near the noun phrases they modify, such as "for relationships" after "a sense of value". Final Answer: The most logical and grammatically correct order is ACB, giving the sentence "Leadership and team-building skills deepened a sense of value for relationships."

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