Question 1

In the following question, a sentence is divided into four labelled parts (A), (B), (C) and (D). Identify the part that contains a grammatical or word-usage error, or select D if there is no error: The consolation messages (A) / received on the (B) …

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Introduction / Context: This question checks both subject-verb agreement and accurate word choice in English. The sentence describes how consolation messages received after Mrs. Malhotra's demise reflect on her character. You must choose which labelled part (A, B, C or D) contains a grammatical or idiomatic error, or decide that the sentence has no error at all. Given Data / Assumptions: - (A) The consolation messages - (B) received on the - (C) demise of Mrs. Malhotra - (D) speaks highly of her enormity. - The intended meaning is that the messages praise her greatness or good qualities. - The subject of the verb in part (D) is consolation messages, which is plural. Concept / Approach: Two problems appear in part (D). First, the verb must agree with the plural subject messages, so we need speak, not speaks. Second, the noun enormity is usually used for extreme wickedness or a very serious crime, not for positive greatness. To express her greatness, words like greatness, generosity or magnanimity are more suitable. Examinations typically at least expect you to catch the subject-verb disagreement in speaks and may also want you to notice the inappropriate meaning of enormity. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the subject in part (A): The consolation messages. This is clearly plural.Step 2: Part (B) received on the correctly introduces a reduced relative clause: messages which were received on the.... This is grammatically sound.Step 3: Part (C) demise of Mrs. Malhotra is a standard expression referring to her death and is correct.Step 4: Part (D) speaks highly of her enormity contains speaks, a singular verb. With the plural subject messages, the verb should be speak.Step 5: Also note that enormity typically means extreme evil or serious moral outrage. In the context of consolation messages, the positive intention is to praise her greatness, so enormity is a poor word choice.Step 6: Thus, segment (D) is the erroneous part, and it should be corrected to speak highly of her greatness (or similar positive noun). Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite the corrected sentence: The consolation messages received on the demise of Mrs. Malhotra speak highly of her greatness. Now both subject-verb agreement and word choice are proper. If we left speaks in place, the mismatch with messages would remain. If we left enormity, the sentence would contradict the usual dictionary meaning, implying she was extremely wicked, which does not fit with the idea of respectful consolation messages. No other segment has grammatical issues, so part (D) is the only correct answer. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - (A) The consolation messages is a correct plural noun phrase. - (B) received on the is fine as a reduced relative clause. - (C) demise of Mrs. Malhotra is an acceptable formal phrase. - Only (D) shows both a verb agreement error and a semantic problem, so the error must be located there. Common Pitfalls: Learners may overlook subject-verb agreement when the subject and verb are separated by a long phrase, such as received on the demise of Mrs. Malhotra. Another pitfall is misunderstanding words like enormity, thinking they mean greatness because they look similar to enormous. In fact, enormity usually refers to something extremely bad. To avoid such mistakes, always identify the true subject of the verb and verify both grammar and meaning of advanced vocabulary items. Final Answer: The incorrect segment is D. The sentence should read speak highly of her greatness (or a similar positive noun) instead of speaks highly of her enormity.

Question 2

In the following question, a sentence is divided into four parts. Identify the part that contains an error in standard English usage, or select 4 if there is no error: This is one of London’s most (1)/ important and ancient axial routes, (2)/ roughl…

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Introduction / Context: This error-spotting question presents a descriptive sentence about one of London's ancient axial routes. Your task is to check each part for grammatical errors or awkward usage. If all parts are correct, you should select 4 to indicate No error. Such questions test your ability to recognise well-formed complex sentences in English. Given Data / Assumptions: - (1) This is one of London’s most - (2) important and ancient axial routes, - (3) roughly following the line of - (4) a Roman through-road. - The sentence describes a particular route in London that follows an old Roman road. - We must focus on grammar and standard expression, not on historical details. Concept / Approach: The main concepts here are the correct use of one of + superlative structure, correct adjective order, and proper use of present participle phrases. The phrase one of London’s most important and ancient axial routes is correctly formed, with most modifying both important and ancient. The participial phrase roughly following the line of a Roman through-road properly modifies routes. There is no disagreement between subject and verb, and the sentence flows naturally as one unit. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Examine part (1): This is one of London’s most. This introduces a standard structure: This is one of + superlative + plural noun.Step 2: Part (2): important and ancient axial routes, completes that structure: most important and ancient axial routes. This is grammatically acceptable and stylistically sound.Step 3: Part (3): roughly following the line of is a present participle phrase which describes how the route is oriented. It is correctly attached to the noun phrase axial routes and is fine.Step 4: Part (4): a Roman through-road, provides the object of the preposition of and clearly refers to a type of Roman road. The hyphenated term through-road is acceptable in descriptive writing.Step 5: None of the parts contains a grammatical error or an awkward construction that examiners typically test.Step 6: Therefore, the sentence is correct as it stands, and the appropriate choice is 4, indicating No error. Verification / Alternative check: Combine all parts into one sentence: This is one of London’s most important and ancient axial routes, roughly following the line of a Roman through-road. This sentence reads smoothly, uses correct article and preposition choices, and follows normal patterns of English description. There is no need to change word order, verb forms, or prepositions. Since every section passes grammatical checks, the only valid answer is No error. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Option 1 cannot be marked wrong because This is one of London’s most is a standard opening structure. - Option 2 shows correct superlative usage and adjective order. - Option 3 correctly uses a participial phrase (roughly following the line of) to modify routes. - Option 4 contains a well-formed noun phrase a Roman through-road and does not introduce any error. Common Pitfalls: Some learners may feel unsure about compound adjectives like axial routes or through-road and assume they must be wrong. Others may mistakenly think that most important and ancient should be rewritten, but English allows most to modify a pair of adjectives. Another common pitfall is over-editing correct sentences because they sound complex. When answering error-spotting questions, always ask whether you can clearly state a standard grammar rule that is being broken; if not, consider that the sentence may be correct. Final Answer: The sentence has no grammatical error, so the correct choice is option 4 (No error).

Question 3

In the following question, a sentence is divided into four parts. Identify the part that contains an error in standard English usage, or select 4 if there is no error: Linking traditional American Native stories (1)/ to historic records of a Japanes…

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Introduction / Context: This question tests sensitivity to idiomatic adjective order and standard collocations in English. The sentence talks about linking certain stories to historical records of a Japanese tsunami and how this was viewed by scientists. You need to identify which part sounds unidiomatic or grammatically wrong, or mark No error if everything is correct. Given Data / Assumptions: - (1) Linking traditional American Native stories - (2) to historic records of a Japanese tsunami - (3) was considered an exception, not the start - (4) of a fruitful geological collaboration. - The intended phrase likely refers to stories told by Native Americans. - We assume standard modern usage as in academic English. Concept / Approach: The main concept here is correct adjective order and established names for ethnic groups. In modern English, the standard term is Native American stories, not American Native stories. The order of the words matters because Native American is a fixed expression referring to indigenous peoples of the Americas. Changing the order to American Native is non-standard and would be considered incorrect or odd in exam English. The other parts of the sentence use acceptable grammar and vocabulary. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Look at part (1): Linking traditional American Native stories. The phrase American Native stories is unusual and does not match the standard expression.Step 2: The correct phrase in academic and common usage is traditional Native American stories, where Native American is a set expression.Step 3: Part (2): to historic records of a Japanese tsunami is grammatically correct, although in some contexts historical records might be stylistically preferred; however, historic is not a clear-cut error here.Step 4: Part (3): was considered an exception, not the start is a valid passive construction indicating how the linking was viewed.Step 5: Part (4): of a fruitful geological collaboration completes the phrase and is grammatically sound.Step 6: Since only part (1) clearly violates standard idiomatic usage, option 1 is the correct answer. Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite the corrected sentence: Linking traditional Native American stories to historic records of a Japanese tsunami was considered an exception, not the start of a fruitful geological collaboration. This version sounds natural and aligns with common usage in books and scholarly articles. Leaving American Native in place would immediately stand out to a careful reader as odd. The remaining parts do not break any standard grammar rules, so part (1) is the sole problematic segment. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Part (2) to historic records of a Japanese tsunami is grammatically fine, even if some style guides might suggest historical records. - Part (3) was considered an exception, not the start is a normal passive structure. - Part (4) of a fruitful geological collaboration correctly completes the noun phrase. - Since a genuine idiomatic issue is present in part (1), No error is not acceptable. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes ignore idiomatic fixed phrases like Native American and focus only on tense or prepositions. Another pitfall is over-correcting historic versus historical when both can be acceptable depending on context. In these questions, ask yourself whether a phrase matches what you usually see in reliable texts. When an adjective + noun pair is a well-known label for a group, such as Native American, African American or South Asian, changing the order will normally be treated as incorrect in exams. Final Answer: The error is in part 1. The phrase should be traditional Native American stories, not traditional American Native stories.

Question 4

In the following question, a sentence is divided into four parts. Identify the part that contains an error in tense or agreement, or select 4 if there is no error: Just as a letter’s physical presence, then, (1)/ resists the rationalisations of the …

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Introduction / Context: This question examines your ability to maintain consistent tense within a complex sentence. The sentence compares what a letter's physical presence does with what its timing or temporal aspects do. You must check whether the verbs are correctly matched in tense and select the part that contains an error, or mark No error if all parts are correct. Given Data / Assumptions: - (1) Just as a letter’s physical presence, then, - (2) resists the rationalisations of the public - (3) sphere, its temporal idiosyncrasies resisted the - (4) efficiencies of capitalist production. - The phrase Just as usually introduces a comparison where two actions or states are presented in parallel. Concept / Approach: The key concept is parallel tense in comparative structures. When we use Just as to compare two ideas, we generally keep the same tense for both verbs, unless there is a deliberate shift in time reference. Here, resists in part (2) is present tense, but resisted in part (3) is past tense. There is no contextual reason to switch from present to past within this carefully balanced comparison, so the second verb should also be in the present tense: resist. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Combine parts (1) and (2): Just as a letter’s physical presence, then, resists the rationalisations of the public. This gives us the first half of the comparison in the present tense.Step 2: Look at part (3): sphere, its temporal idiosyncrasies resisted the. The word resisted is in the simple past tense, which breaks the parallel with resists in the present tense.Step 3: In a typical comparative structure Just as X resists..., so Y resists..., both verbs are expected to be in the same tense, here the present.Step 4: Therefore resisted should be resist to maintain consistent tense: its temporal idiosyncrasies resist the efficiencies....Step 5: Part (4): efficiencies of capitalist production correctly completes the object and contains no grammatical error.Step 6: Thus, the error lies in part (3). Verification / Alternative check: Rewriting the corrected sentence: Just as a letter’s physical presence, then, resists the rationalisations of the public sphere, its temporal idiosyncrasies resist the efficiencies of capitalist production. Now both verbs are in the present tense, giving a balanced and conceptually stable comparison. There is no indication that one action belongs to the present and the other to the past, so the original shift from resists to resisted is unjustified. Since parts (1), (2) and (4) do not show clear grammatical faults, part (3) is confirmed as the only error. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Part (1) Just as a letter’s physical presence, then, is a stylistic opening and is structurally acceptable. - Part (2) resists the rationalisations of the public is consistent with present tense and grammatically correct. - Part (4) efficiencies of capitalist production simply completes the noun phrase and is error-free. - Only part (3) introduces an inconsistent tense resisted that breaks the parallelism. Common Pitfalls: Many students miss tense shifts because they focus on vocabulary or complex nouns like temporal idiosyncrasies and efficiencies of capitalist production. Another pitfall is accepting stylistic complexity as a sign of correctness without checking the underlying grammar. In comparative structures with just as, as... so..., both parts must be checked for parallel tense and form. Whenever a sentence contains two coordinated clauses, always verify that their main verbs match in tense unless there is a clear contextual reason for a difference. Final Answer: The incorrect segment is part 3. The verb should be in the present tense (resist), not resisted, to keep the comparison grammatically parallel.

Question 5

In the following question, a sentence is divided into four parts. Identify the part that contains a grammatical or idiomatic error, or select 4 if there is no error: It was a long (1)/ and uncomfortable journey (2)/ but he managed (3)/ to reach with…

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Introduction / Context: This question tests your knowledge of correct prepositional phrases in English, especially the idiom in time. The sentence describes a long and uncomfortable journey and then mentions that he still managed to reach before a certain deadline. You must decide which part of the sentence contains an error in common usage, or state that the sentence has no error. Given Data / Assumptions: - (1) It was a long - (2) and uncomfortable journey - (3) but he managed - (4) to reach with time. - The intended meaning appears to be that, despite difficulties, he arrived in time (that is, before it was too late). Concept / Approach: The key concept is choosing the correct preposition in fixed expressions. In English, we say arrive in time or reach in time, not reach with time, when we mean arriving before a deadline. The phrase with time usually means gradually or over a period (for example, with time, he improved), which is a different idea. Therefore, to reach with time is not idiomatic; the correct phrase is to reach in time. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Check parts (1) and (2): It was a long / and uncomfortable journey. This correctly describes the journey and is grammatically sound.Step 2: Part (3): but he managed introduces a contrast and is appropriate in this context.Step 3: Look at part (4): to reach with time. This is where the phrase becomes non-standard.Step 4: The idiomatic expression for arriving early enough is to reach in time, not with time.Step 5: Thus, part (4) is incorrect and should be changed to to reach in time. Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite the corrected sentence: It was a long and uncomfortable journey but he managed to reach in time. This version clearly conveys that although the journey was difficult, he arrived before any deadline or appointment, which matches common English usage. If we tried to interpret to reach with time, it would sound awkward and confusing, because with time usually refers to gradual change, not punctual arrival. The other parts of the sentence do not show any grammatical problems, so the only error is in the preposition with in part (4). Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Part (1) It was a long is a correct opening for the description. - Part (2) and uncomfortable journey properly continues the noun phrase. - Part (3) but he managed introduces the contrast and is grammatically correct. - Only part (4) contains an incorrect prepositional phrase and must be changed. Common Pitfalls: Students often confuse prepositions in idiomatic expressions, especially when translating from their first language. Phrases like in time, on time, at the time and with time have distinct meanings. With time usually means gradually or as time passes, whereas in time means early enough or before a deadline. To avoid such confusion, it is helpful to memorise common verb + preposition combinations and practise them in sentences. Paying attention to how these phrases are used in authentic texts will also strengthen your intuition about what sounds natural. Final Answer: The error is in part 4. The sentence should read: It was a long and uncomfortable journey but he managed to reach in time.

Question 6

Which of the following options can be used as a weapon of war and conflict in the field of international relations?

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Introduction / Context: This question comes from the area of international relations and political vocabulary. It asks which listed economic or diplomatic measure can be used as a weapon of war and conflict. Here, war does not necessarily mean direct military action; it can refer to economic warfare or coercive strategies used by states to pressure or punish other states without firing a shot. Given Data / Assumptions: - We are given four options: - Extreme economic dependence - Trade sanctions - Currency manipulation - Withdrawal of bilateral treaties - The term weapon of war and conflict suggests a deliberate, offensive tool used to hurt or pressure another country. Concept / Approach: The central concept is economic warfare. Trade sanctions are formal restrictions on exports, imports, or financial transactions that one country (or group of countries) imposes on another to punish or coerce it. Sanctions are widely recognised as instruments of economic warfare and are frequently described as weapons in diplomatic conflicts. The other options may be harmful or risky, but they are not as clearly and directly identified in common discourse as formal weapons of war and conflict in the way sanctions are. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Extreme economic dependence is generally seen as a vulnerability, not a weapon. A country that is extremely dependent on others is more likely to suffer harm than to exert power.Step 2: Trade sanctions are intentional, state-imposed restrictions designed to hurt another country’s economy, often in response to political or military behaviour. They are explicitly used as tools of pressure and conflict.Step 3: Currency manipulation can influence trade balances and financial flows, but it is usually discussed as an unfair practice rather than a clear, formal weapon of war.Step 4: Withdrawal of bilateral treaties can signal diplomatic hostility, but in itself it is more of a political gesture; it may precede conflict but is not typically labelled a weapon.Step 5: Among the options, trade sanctions most clearly match the idea of a weapon of war and conflict in modern international relations. Verification / Alternative check: Consider how media and academic sources speak about these tools. Trade sanctions are often described as economic weapons or economic warfare, used as an alternative to direct military intervention. Headlines frequently refer to sanctions being imposed to punish or deter a country. Currency manipulation and treaty withdrawal, while powerful, are not as systematically framed as weapons; extreme dependence is a weakness, not a deliberate tool. This makes trade sanctions the best match to the wording of the question. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Extreme economic dependence describes a state of vulnerability for a country, not a weapon it can actively wield. - Currency manipulation can distort markets and trade but is usually treated as unfair policy rather than a defined weapon of war. - Withdrawal of bilateral treaties is a diplomatic move that may signal tension, but it is not typically named a weapon in the same clear sense as sanctions. Common Pitfalls: Candidates may be tempted by broad ideas and choose multiple options mentally, but the question asks which is used as a weapon in the most explicit sense. Another mistake is to confuse being vulnerable (extreme dependence) with having a tool of coercion. When answering such questions, think about how often each term is directly paired with words like weapon, warfare or sanctions in news and textbooks. The term trade sanctions consistently appears with these ideas, making it the safest and most accurate choice. Final Answer: The option that can be clearly used as a weapon of war and conflict is Trade sanctions.

Question 7

In the following question, a sentence is divided into three parts. Identify the part that contains an error in standard English usage, or select 4 if there is no error: Ritika decided to get up early (1)/ to wear a nice dress (2)/ and visit her aunt…

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Introduction / Context: This sentence-correction question tests your sense of natural English structure and infinitive usage. The sentence describes Ritika’s decision to wake up early, wear a nice dress and visit her aunt. You must identify whether any part contains a grammatical error or awkward construction, or confirm that the sentence is error-free. Given Data / Assumptions: - (1) Ritika decided to get up early - (2) to wear a nice dress - (3) and visit her aunt. - (4) No error indicates the sentence is correct as written. - The overall intention is to show purpose: why she decided to get up early. Concept / Approach: The main concept is the use of the infinitive to express purpose. In English, we often say decided to do something to achieve another goal. Here, to wear a nice dress and visit her aunt describes the purpose or plan associated with getting up early. The coordination of infinitives get up, wear and visit is acceptable and maintains a clear meaning. The sentence flows naturally and does not violate standard grammar rules. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Examine part (1): Ritika decided to get up early. This is a straightforward decision + infinitive construction and is correct.Step 2: Part (2): to wear a nice dress expresses a purpose linked to getting up early; it is grammatically fine and natural.Step 3: Part (3): and visit her aunt coordinates another infinitive (visit) with wear and is perfectly acceptable.Step 4: Taken together, the sentence reads: Ritika decided to get up early to wear a nice dress and visit her aunt. This is a normal English sentence expressing her plan.Step 5: No structural, tense, agreement, or preposition errors are present. Therefore, none of the numbered parts needs correction. Verification / Alternative check: If we try to rephrase the sentence, we get alternatives such as Ritika decided to get up early, wear a nice dress and visit her aunt or Ritika decided to get up early so that she could wear a nice dress and visit her aunt. All these versions are grammatically correct and preserve the meaning. The given wording, with the purpose expressed using to wear and the coordination and visit, is fully acceptable in standard English. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Part (1) has no tense or agreement issue; decided to get up early is correct. - Part (2) to wear a nice dress is a valid expression of purpose. - Part (3) and visit her aunt coordinates another infinitive and introduces no grammatical error. - Consequently, we cannot mark any part as erroneous, so No error (4) is the correct choice. Common Pitfalls: Sometimes, students overthink simple sentences and look for errors where none exist, especially in exam patterns that frequently feature mistakes. Another pitfall is expecting the sentence to use a different structure, such as a gerund, and assuming the given version must be wrong. Always check whether the sentence actually breaks a rule or whether it simply uses a valid alternative structure. If you cannot clearly identify a specific rule being violated, the safest answer is often No error. Final Answer: The sentence is grammatically correct, so the appropriate choice is option 4 (No error).

Question 8

In the following question, a sentence is divided into three parts. Identify the part that contains an error in standard English usage, or select 4 if there is no error: The student asked me if (1)/ I knew that Kalidas was the greater (2)/ than any o…

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Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of comparative and superlative forms of adjectives. The sentence is about a student asking whether Kalidas is superior to other poets. You must locate the part that misuses the comparative form or confirm that the sentence has no error. Given Data / Assumptions: - (1) The student asked me if - (2) I knew that Kalidas was the greater - (3) than any other poet. - (4) No error indicates that the sentence might be correct as is. - The intended meaning is that Kalidas is the greatest among all other poets. Concept / Approach: The key concept is the correct use of comparative (greater) and superlative (greatest) forms, especially with phrases like than any other and with the article the. When we compare one person with all others in a group, we normally use the superlative: the greatest of all or greater than any other but without using the in front of greater. The structure the greater than any other poet is incorrect; it mixes the article the (used with superlatives) with a comparative form greater followed by than any other. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Part (1) The student asked me if is grammatically correct as an introductory reporting clause.Step 2: Look at part (2): I knew that Kalidas was the greater. The use of the greater suggests a comparison but is incomplete and awkward by itself.Step 3: Part (3): than any other poet completes the comparison. Combining (2) and (3), we get Kalidas was the greater than any other poet, which is ungrammatical.Step 4: The correct versions are either Kalidas was greater than any other poet (without the) or Kalidas was the greatest of all poets (using the superlative greatest).Step 5: Thus the error is specifically in part (2), where the form the greater is used incorrectly. Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite the sentence correctly: The student asked me if I knew that Kalidas was greater than any other poet or The student asked me if I knew that Kalidas was the greatest poet of all. Both options sound natural and follow established grammatical rules. The original phrase the greater than any other poet does not appear in standard English and mixes two patterns. Parts (1) and (3) are otherwise fine, so the error must be in part (2). Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Part (1) is a normal reporting clause with no tense or agreement problems. - Part (3) than any other poet correctly introduces the group being compared, as long as it follows a proper comparative form. - No error (4) cannot be chosen because we have identified a definite misuse of comparative and superlative forms in part (2). Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes combine structures like the greatest of all and greater than any other without realising that the rules change slightly. Another common mistake is to leave the article the in front of a comparative adjective when it should be omitted. When you see than any other in a sentence, it almost always requires a comparative form without the or a separate superlative structure without than. Remember: either greater than any other poet or the greatest poet of all, not a hybrid of the two. Final Answer: The error is in part 2. The sentence should read: The student asked me if I knew that Kalidas was greater than any other poet (or was the greatest poet of all).

Question 9

In the following question, a sentence is given with a blank space. Choose the correct phrasal verb to complete the sentence meaningfully: It is mainly due to Peter's lethargy that the plan fell _____.

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Introduction / Context: This question tests your knowledge of phrasal verbs, which are verb + particle combinations with meanings that are often idiomatic. The sentence explains that Peter's lethargy caused a plan to fail. You must choose the particle that forms a phrasal verb with fell to express the idea of failure correctly and naturally. Given Data / Assumptions: - Sentence: It is mainly due to Peter's lethargy that the plan fell _____. - Options: off, through, in, out. - The intended meaning is that the plan failed or did not work as expected because Peter was lethargic. Concept / Approach: The relevant concept is the phrasal verb fall through, which means to fail to happen, usually because arrangements are not completed or something goes wrong. This fits perfectly with a plan that did not succeed. The other particles combine with fall to create different meanings: fall off (decrease or drop), fall in (collapse inward or line up in formation), and fall out (argue or drop out). None of these match the idea of a plan failing to materialise. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the intended idea: the plan failed or was cancelled due to Peter's lack of energy or enthusiasm.Step 2: Consider fell off. This usually means decreased (for example, sales fell off) or physically dropped, not that a plan failed.Step 3: Consider fell through. The phrasal verb fall through is commonly used with plans, deals, or arrangements, meaning that they failed to happen.Step 4: Consider fell in. This can describe a roof falling in or soldiers forming a line but not a plan failing.Step 5: Consider fell out. Fall out often refers to quarrelling (they fell out over money) or something dropping out of place; again, not the right sense for a plan failing.Step 6: Therefore, through is the correct particle, forming fell through, which perfectly fits the context. Verification / Alternative check: Replace the blank with through and read the sentence: It is mainly due to Peter's lethargy that the plan fell through. This is a very common and idiomatic expression in English. If we substitute any of the other options, the sentence becomes unnatural or changes meaning: the plan fell off, fell in or fell out do not convey failed to happen in standard usage. This confirms that through is the only appropriate choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Off suggests reduction or physical dropping, which does not describe what happens to a plan. - In suggests an inward collapse or lining up, which is not relevant to a plan failing. - Out suggests arguing or dropping from a group, again unrelated to the intended meaning here. Common Pitfalls: Phrasal verbs are tricky because their meanings cannot always be guessed from individual words. Learners may try to rely on literal translation from their first language or on guesswork with particles like off, out, in, and through. A better strategy is to learn common phrasal verbs in chunks with examples, such as plans fall through, negotiations break down, and deals fall apart. Recognising fall through as the standard expression for a plan failing will help you answer similar questions quickly in exams. Final Answer: The correct phrasal verb is fell through, so the sentence should read: It is mainly due to Peter's lethargy that the plan fell through.

Question 10

In the following question, a sentence is given with a blank space. Choose the most appropriate preposition to complete the sentence: Mother shall return _____ an hour.

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Introduction / Context: This question checks your understanding of time-related prepositions, particularly how to express the idea of something happening a certain amount of time from now. The sentence refers to Mother's expected return and asks you to choose the correct preposition to indicate the time span of one hour in the future. Given Data / Assumptions: - Sentence: Mother shall return _____ an hour. - Options: in, after, during, within. - The intention is to say that Mother will come back one hour from now (approximately), not necessarily earlier or later than that. Concept / Approach: The main concept is the standard use of in with periods of time to indicate how long from now something will happen. We commonly say in an hour, in two days, in five minutes to mean a specific time interval from the present. After can sometimes work in similar contexts but often focuses on the sequence relative to an event. Within suggests any time before the end of that period, and during is used for things happening in the course of a period, not at its end. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Interpret the target meaning: Mother will return approximately one hour from now.Step 2: Test in: Mother shall return in an hour. This is the normal, idiomatic way of expressing the idea in English.Step 3: Test after: Mother shall return after an hour. This can sometimes be used, but it suggests at some point following the completion of an hour, and is less natural in this simple prediction.Step 4: Test during: Mother shall return during an hour is ungrammatical and does not convey a specific future point in time.Step 5: Test within: Mother shall return within an hour means she will return at some time before the hour is over, which changes the meaning to an earlier time window.Step 6: Therefore, in is the best and most idiomatic preposition for this sentence. Verification / Alternative check: In everyday English, when people talk about an event expected a set time from now, they nearly always say in an hour, in a week, in ten minutes, etc. Saying after an hour is possible but tends to focus on the beginning of some subsequent action rather than a simple expected time. The exam-style correct answer prioritises the most common and straightforward usage, which is in an hour. The options during and within clearly do not fit the plain meaning of the sentence. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - After introduces a sequence after the end of a period and is not the most natural choice in this simple future expression. - During refers to something that happens at some point within a period, not at its end or a set time from now. - Within suggests any time before the hour is completed, which alters the meaning and is not what the sentence plainly suggests. Common Pitfalls: Many learners confuse in and within when talking about future times. While both relate to a time period, within emphasises a time window and can mean any time before the limit, whereas in usually indicates the approximate time at which the event will occur. To master this, remember typical phrases you hear from native speakers: I'll call you in an hour, The train will leave in ten minutes, etc. These patterns show that in is the safest and most standard choice for fixed intervals from the present. Final Answer: The correct preposition is in. The complete sentence is: Mother shall return in an hour.

Question 11

In the following question, choose the option that is similar in meaning to the given word: Surreptitious.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question asks you to find a synonym, that is, a word close in meaning to surreptitious. Such questions test your ability to understand and recall nuanced meanings of less common English words. Surreptitious is often used in formal or literary contexts to describe hidden or secretive behaviour. Given Data / Assumptions: - Target word: Surreptitious. - Options: Hesitation, Secret, Impious, Artless. - We must select the word whose meaning is nearest to that of surreptitious in general usage. Concept / Approach: Surreptitious usually means done in a secret or stealthy way, often because it is not approved of or is meant to avoid notice. It can modify actions, glances, meetings and so on that are hidden from others. Among the options, Secret most directly matches this idea. The other words describe very different concepts: hesitation refers to pausing before acting, impious to lack of religious respect, and artless to being simple or without deceit, often the opposite of secretive. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall or infer the meaning of surreptitious: stealthy, secret, carried out without attracting attention.Step 2: Check Hesitation. This means a pause or uncertainty before doing something and does not match the idea of secrecy.Step 3: Check Secret. This means hidden, unknown to others, or kept from public knowledge, and is very close in sense to surreptitious.Step 4: Check Impious. This describes someone who lacks proper respect for religion or sacred things, unrelated to secrecy.Step 5: Check Artless. This generally means simple, natural, or without deception and can even suggest openness, the opposite of being secretive.Step 6: Therefore, Secret is the correct synonym for surreptitious in this list. Verification / Alternative check: Consider example sentences: They held a surreptitious meeting late at night and They held a secret meeting late at night express nearly the same idea. In contrast, they held a hesitant meeting or an artless meeting would sound odd, and an impious meeting would relate to religion, not secrecy. The natural substitution test confirms that Secret is the closest in meaning among the options provided. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Hesitation refers to a pause or doubt before acting and has nothing to do with hiding something. - Impious deals with irreligion or lack of reverence, not with being hidden or secret. - Artless typically describes someone who is simple, sincere, or lacking cunning, often implying openness rather than secrecy. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to choose a word that feels equally "difficult" rather than one that truly matches the meaning. Another pitfall is misreading surreptitious as superstitious, which relates to belief in supernatural signs and would push you toward religious options like impious. To avoid this, always focus on the prefix and roots: surreptitious links to notions of seizing or stealing in secret, while superstitious concerns beliefs. Building a strong vocabulary through reading and by learning words in context will make such distinctions easier. Final Answer: The word that is similar in meaning to Surreptitious is Secret.

Question 12

In the following question, choose the option that is similar in meaning to the given word: Inanition.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question asks for a synonym of the word inanition. Inanition is a relatively formal word that appears in medical, literary or philosophical texts. Understanding it helps in interpreting passages that describe physical or mental exhaustion due to lack of nourishment or energy. Given Data / Assumptions: - Target word: Inanition. - Options: Lethargy, Offensive, Vaccilating, Grasping. - We need to choose the option closest in meaning to inanition as used in standard English. Concept / Approach: Inanition refers to exhaustion, weakness or emptiness, often caused by lack of food, nourishment or some vital element. It can describe both physical and mental states of extreme fatigue or depletion. Lethargy, which means a state of sluggishness, tiredness or lack of energy, is the closest in meaning among the options. The other choices point to completely different ideas: Offensive means causing anger or insult, Vaccilating (a misspelling of vacillating) relates to indecision, and Grasping suggests greediness. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the meaning of inanition: extreme weakness, exhaustion or emptiness, often due to starvation or prolonged lack of energy.Step 2: Examine Lethargy. It means drowsiness, sluggishness or a lack of energy, which fits well with the idea of profound weakness.Step 3: Consider Offensive. This means causing someone to feel deeply hurt or upset; it is unrelated to physical or mental exhaustion.Step 4: Consider Vaccilating (vacillating). This means being indecisive or wavering between options, again unrelated to the idea of weakness from hunger or depletion.Step 5: Consider Grasping. This describes someone who is greedy or eager to take things; it has no connection with weakness or emptiness.Step 6: Therefore, Lethargy is the only option that aligns with the meaning of inanition. Verification / Alternative check: Test the substitution in sample phrases: After days without proper food, he collapsed from inanition can be paraphrased as he collapsed from lethargy and extreme weakness. While lethargy does not always imply starvation, it does capture the sense of low energy and sluggishness. None of the other options would make sense in the same context: collapsing from something offensive, vacillating or grasping would not convey the intended idea. Thus, Lethargy is the nearest synonym in this list. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Offensive deals with causing insult or displeasure, not with physical or mental exhaustion. - Vaccilating refers to indecision and frequent changes of mind, which is conceptually different from weakness or emptiness. - Grasping means excessively greedy and is unrelated to the idea of depletion or starvation. Common Pitfalls: Because inanition is not a common everyday word, candidates may guess based on "feel" or treat it as similar to inattention or inaction. This can lead to wrong choices. A useful strategy is to build vocabulary in semantic groups. For example, group inanition with starvation, emaciation, debility and lethargy in your memory. Recognising that these words cluster around exhaustion and lack of nourishment will guide you to pick lethargy rather than unrelated options, even when spellings like vaccilating are distracting. Final Answer: The word that is similar in meaning to Inanition is Lethargy.

Question 13

In the following question, choose the option that is opposite in meaning to the given word: Imbroglio.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your understanding of antonyms—words that have opposite meanings. The word imbroglio is used to describe a confusing, complicated or embarrassing situation. You must choose the option that best represents the opposite idea of such a state. Given Data / Assumptions: - Target word: Imbroglio. - Options: Misery, Censure, Composure, Dilemma. - We seek the word that most directly contrasts with the idea of confusion and entanglement contained in imbroglio. Concept / Approach: Imbroglio refers to a complicated, confusing or messy situation, often involving misunderstandings or entanglements. The opposite concept would be a state of calm, clarity, or inner balance. Among the options, Composure, meaning calmness of mind and self-control, best captures this opposite sense. The other options describe different types of negative states—misery (extreme unhappiness), censure (strong disapproval), and dilemma (a difficult choice)—which are not direct opposites of confusion or entanglement. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Understand imbroglio as a highly confused, complicated or embarrassing situation.Step 2: Look at Misery. This refers to great physical or mental suffering, but an imbroglio need not always involve misery; it focuses on complexity and confusion rather than pure sorrow.Step 3: Look at Censure. This means strong criticism or disapproval, typically by an authority; it does not address confusion versus calm.Step 4: Look at Composure. This refers to calmness, self-possession and stability of mind, which stands in contrast to the turmoil and confusion of an imbroglio.Step 5: Look at Dilemma. A dilemma is a situation in which one must choose between two or more difficult options. While related to difficulty, it still implies a problematic situation, not its opposite.Step 6: Therefore, Composure is the best antonym among the given options. Verification / Alternative check: Imagine two scenarios. In one, a room full of people are shouting, arguing and misunderstanding each other, creating an imbroglio. In another, a person remains calm, collected and untroubled despite external events—this is composure. The contrast between confused entanglement and inner calm is much sharper than between imbroglio and any of the other options. Misery, censure and dilemma all describe problematic states in different dimensions but do not provide the sense of resolution or calm that an antonym requires here. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Misery emphasises suffering, not complexity or confusion, and thus does not directly oppose imbroglio. - Censure refers to criticism or disapproval and is unrelated to clarity versus confusion. - Dilemma is another kind of difficult situation, often also confusing, and is therefore closer in spirit to imbroglio than opposed to it. Common Pitfalls: Students may be tempted to choose another negative-sounding word, assuming that an antonym must also be negative. However, an antonym should fundamentally reverse the key idea. Imbroglio emphasises confusion and entanglement; its opposite should emphasise calm and clarity, not a different kind of trouble. When tackling antonym questions, focus on the central meaning rather than the emotional tone alone. Final Answer: The word that is opposite in meaning to Imbroglio is Composure.

Question 14

In the following question, choose the option that is opposite in meaning to the given word: Bequest.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This antonym question focuses on the word bequest. Bequest is a legal and financial term used in the context of wills and inheritance. You must choose the option that most directly expresses the opposite idea of giving property by will to someone else. Given Data / Assumptions: - Target word: Bequest. - Options: Accord, Damage, Complex, Withdraw. - We need to find the option that best reverses the idea of leaving something (especially property or money) to someone in a will. Concept / Approach: A bequest is something, such as money or property, that is left to a beneficiary by the terms of a will. It is a voluntary act of giving or granting. The opposite idea would be taking back, cancelling, or not giving the property. Among the options, Withdraw most clearly represents the act of taking away or revoking. The other choices carry meanings that do not oppose the concept of leaving property as a gift in a will. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Understand bequest as a legacy or gift left to someone in a will.Step 2: Consider Accord. This usually means agreement or harmony, and while it can also mean to grant something, it does not function as a straightforward opposite to bequest.Step 3: Consider Damage. This refers to harm or injury and does not directly relate to the giving or withholding of property through a will.Step 4: Consider Complex. This describes something complicated, not something that reverses the act of giving an inheritance.Step 5: Consider Withdraw. This verb means to take back, remove, or pull out. In the context of property or offers, it clearly expresses the opposite of giving or leaving something.Step 6: Therefore, Withdraw is the best antonym for bequest among the given options. Verification / Alternative check: Think of possible sentences. A bequest of ten lakh rupees was left to his nephew refers to giving. Its opposite action would be: He decided to withdraw the gift from his will, meaning he no longer wants to leave that property. Accord, Damage and Complex do not create a clear opposite scenario. In multiple-choice exams, antonyms often pair a noun and a verb that represent giving versus taking away, so bequest and withdraw form a reasonable oppositional pair in this context. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Accord, while sometimes used to mean grant, is not conceptually opposite to bequest and can even be seen as somewhat similar in certain contexts. - Damage has to do with harm or injury and does not address the act of transferring or not transferring property. - Complex describes the nature of something (complicated) and is unrelated to property transfer or revocation. Common Pitfalls: Because bequest is a noun and withdraw is a verb, some students may hesitate to pair them. However, exam questions often choose the best semantic opposite even if the grammatical categories differ. Another pitfall is misreading bequest as request, which would lead to different associations. Always focus on the core meaning: bequest is a gift left at death; its opposite is to take it back or refuse to give it, which matches withdraw most closely. Final Answer: The option that is opposite in meaning to Bequest is Withdraw.

Question 15

In the following question, choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the idiom: "Adam's ale".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your knowledge of English idioms. The phrase Adam's ale is a colourful expression with a traditional, somewhat humorous flavour. You must identify what this idiom refers to in everyday language from the options given. Given Data / Assumptions: - Idiom: Adam's ale. - Options: Gift, Food, Water, Belongings. - The idiom alludes to Adam from the Bible and what he would have had to drink in the Garden of Eden. Concept / Approach: Adam's ale is an old-fashioned idiom that simply means water, especially plain drinking water, as opposed to alcoholic drinks. The idea is that the first man, Adam, would have had water as his natural drink. None of the other options—gift, food or belongings—capture this specific meaning. Recognising this idiom helps you understand literary or humorous references in English texts. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the meaning of Adam's ale as used in idiomatic English. It refers to plain water.Step 2: Check Gift. This has no connection with the imagery of Adam and a drink.Step 3: Check Food. While food is also something basic and necessary, the idiom specifically points to a beverage, not solid nourishment.Step 4: Check Water. This exactly matches the idea that Adam would drink natural water, and is the established meaning of the idiom.Step 5: Check Belongings, which refers to personal property and is unrelated to drinks.Step 6: Therefore, Water is the correct explanation of Adam's ale. Verification / Alternative check: Consider typical usage in a sentence: He does not drink alcohol; he is content with Adam's ale. In such contexts, Adam's ale is clearly contrasted with beer, wine or spirits and refers to simple water. Substituting gift, food or belongings does not make sense here. This pattern of use supports the meaning of plain water rather than any of the other options. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - Gift refers to something given voluntarily and has no link with the idiom's imagery. - Food is nourishment but the phrase Adam's ale specifically focuses on a drink, not food. - Belongings refers to possessions or property, which again does not match the idea of a natural drink. Common Pitfalls: Because the idiom uses a proper name (Adam) and an old word (ale), some learners might mistakenly think it refers to an alcoholic drink, since ale is a type of beer. However, the traditional play on words contrasts Adam's ale (water) with alcoholic drinks consumed later by humans. The key is to remember that Adam, in the Garden of Eden, is imagined drinking only pure water, not beer. Learning a few such idioms with images or stories behind them makes them easier to remember. Final Answer: The idiom Adam's ale means Water.

Question 16

In the following question, choose the option that best expresses the meaning of the idiom: "At one's wits end".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question focuses on the idiom at one's wits end, a common expression in English that describes a particular mental or emotional state. You must pick the option that best explains what it means to be at one's wits end in everyday situations. Given Data / Assumptions: - Idiom: At one's wits end. - Options: A man of ability, At the last moment, To get puzzled, Undecided controversy. - The idiom usually describes someone who no longer knows what to do because of worry, confusion or difficulty. Concept / Approach: To be at one's wits end means to be so worried, confused or perplexed that you cannot think of any solution or further course of action. It is close to being completely puzzled or out of ideas. Among the options, To get puzzled best captures this sense. The other options point to unrelated concepts: a man of ability describes a capable person, at the last moment refers to time, and undecided controversy describes a disputed issue, not an inner mental state. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the meaning: at one's wits end = nearly out of patience or ideas, not knowing what more to do.Step 2: Examine A man of ability. This describes someone skilled or talented and is not related to confusion or worry.Step 3: Examine At the last moment. This phrase refers to timing, not to mental confusion or lack of solutions.Step 4: Examine To get puzzled. Being puzzled involves confusion and uncertainty, which is close to being at one's wits end.Step 5: Examine Undecided controversy, which refers to a dispute that has not been resolved; this describes a situation, not someone's internal state.Step 6: Therefore, the best explanation of the idiom is To get puzzled. Verification / Alternative check: Consider typical usage: After trying every possible remedy for her child’s illness, she was at her wits end and did not know what else to do. This clearly shows a state of extreme puzzlement and worry. Substituting phrases like a man of ability or at the last moment would not fit. The idea of being deeply puzzled, confused or out of ideas matches the idiom’s usage, which supports choosing To get puzzled as the closest meaning among the options. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - A man of ability is about skill and competence, not about confusion or helplessness. - At the last moment refers to time pressure, not to a mental state. - Undecided controversy describes a disagreement that has not been resolved and is not equivalent to one person feeling they are out of ideas. Common Pitfalls: Some learners may associate at one's wits end with time-related phrases because of the word end, or may think it implies a final moment. However, the core idea is mental exhaustion or puzzlement, not timing. Another pitfall is focusing only on the word wits and thinking of intelligence in general, but the idiom is specifically about having no more ideas. When dealing with idioms, always think of common example sentences you have seen or heard, and focus on the overall picture they create rather than strict literal meanings of individual words. Final Answer: The idiom At one's wits end means to get puzzled to the point of not knowing what to do next.

Question 17

Improve the bracketed part of the sentence by choosing the most appropriate phrasal verb: I had not completed my project, so I thought I was (done with) when the manager asked me to hand it in.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This sentence improvement question tests your understanding of phrasal verbs used in everyday English, especially common idiomatic expressions that describe being in trouble because of an unfinished task. Many learners confuse similar looking phrases such as "done for", "done in", and "done with", but each carries a different nuance. The exam expects you to choose the phrasal verb that correctly conveys the feeling that the speaker believed they were in serious trouble after failing to complete the project when the manager demanded it. Given Data / Assumptions: - The speaker had not completed the project at the time the manager asked for it. - The speaker expected a negative consequence because of this failure. - The bracketed phrase "(done with)" is grammatically correct but does not match the intended meaning in context. - You must replace the bracketed part with a more suitable phrasal verb from the options. Concept / Approach: The core idea is to match meaning, not just form. In English, "done for" usually means "ruined", "in serious trouble", or "facing bad consequences". "Done with" usually means "finished", "completed", or "no longer involved". "Done in" can mean "exhausted" or sometimes "killed". Therefore, in a workplace context where an incomplete project might anger a manager, the natural thought is "I am done for", meaning "I am in serious trouble now". Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Understand the situation. The project is not completed, yet the manager has asked for it to be handed in. Step 2: Infer the emotion. The speaker expects negative consequences and feels worried. Step 3: Evaluate "done with". This would mean "finished with something", which is opposite to the fact that the project is still incomplete. Step 4: Evaluate "done in". This mainly implies "physically exhausted" or "killed", which does not fit the idea of fearing disciplinary trouble. Step 5: Evaluate "done for". This correctly expresses the feeling that the speaker believes they are in serious trouble because of the incomplete work. Verification / Alternative check: Insert each option back into the sentence. "I thought I was done with" suggests the speaker believed the project was finished, which contradicts the earlier clause. "I thought I was done in" may sound like the speaker is physically exhausted, which does not match the context of a manager asking for a project. "I thought I was done for" is a common idiomatic expression meaning "I expected serious trouble", which perfectly matches the situation described. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "done in": Mostly used to describe someone who is very tired or has been harmed, not simply in professional trouble because of missed work. - "done on": This is not a standard phrasal verb in this sense and sounds grammatically odd in the sentence. - "No improvement": The original phrase "done with" is misleading because it implies completion, not danger or trouble. Common Pitfalls: Students often pick "No improvement" because the grammar seems acceptable, ignoring the mismatch in meaning. Others may choose "done in" because it appears dramatic, but they do not check whether it truly matches the idea of facing professional consequences. Always focus on what the speaker feels and expects in the situation, not only on whether the phrase exists in English. Final Answer: The correct phrasal verb is done for, which accurately conveys the idea that the speaker believed they were in serious trouble for not completing the project in time.

Question 18

Improve the bracketed part of the sentence by choosing the most appropriate phrasal verb: Rohan was upset and so (picked up) his food while his cousins ate heartily.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks your understanding of phrasal verbs that describe eating behaviour. In spoken English, we often use specific phrasal verbs to show whether someone is eating cheerfully, eating a lot, or eating very little. The sentence describes Rohan, who was upset and therefore did not eat properly while his cousins enjoyed their food. You must choose the phrasal verb that precisely describes eating in a half hearted, unenthusiastic way. Given Data / Assumptions: - Rohan was upset, so his emotional state was negative. - His cousins ate heartily, meaning they ate with enthusiasm and appetite. - The bracketed phrase "(picked up) his food" is to be improved. - The correct option should express that he ate reluctantly or only in tiny amounts. Concept / Approach: Phrasal verbs are combinations of a verb and a preposition or adverb that create a specific idiomatic meaning. "Pick at" food means to eat very little and without enthusiasm, usually because the person is upset or not hungry. "Pick up" food usually means to lift or collect it, not to eat reluctantly. "Pick on" means to bully or tease someone. "Pick out" means to select one item from many. For this sentence, the emotional context points clearly towards the idiom that conveys half hearted eating. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note the cause: Rohan was upset, which normally reduces appetite. Step 2: Compare his behaviour with that of his cousins, who ate heartily. Step 3: Interpret what the sentence wants to show: that he ate very little or only moved the food around. Step 4: Check meanings of the phrasal verbs. "Pick at food" is a fixed expression that describes eating very little and without interest. Step 5: Substitute "picked at" into the sentence: "Rohan was upset and so picked at his food while his cousins ate heartily." The meaning now fits perfectly. Verification / Alternative check: Try each option in the sentence. "Picked out his food" would mean he selected his food, which does not match the contrast with "ate heartily". "Picked on his food" is grammatically unnatural. "No improvement" keeps "picked up his food", which simply describes lifting the plate or food, not his style of eating. Only "picked at his food" clearly shows that he barely ate because of his mood. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "Picked out": Focuses on choosing something, not the act of eating reluctantly. - "Picked on": Refers to teasing or bullying a person, not food at all. - "No improvement": The original phrasal verb does not convey the intended idea of poor appetite. Common Pitfalls: Learners often look only at grammatical correctness and ignore idiomatic usage. Another common mistake is to assume that any phrasal verb with "pick" is interchangeable, which is not true. English phrasal verbs are highly idiomatic and usually have fixed meanings that must be learned with examples. Final Answer: The correct improvement is Picked at, because it accurately describes Rohan eating very little and without enthusiasm due to being upset.

Question 19

Choose the correct one-word substitute for the phrase: "to give up a throne voluntarily".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: One word substitution questions test your vocabulary and ability to express long phrases using a single precise word. In political and historical contexts, kings, queens, and emperors sometimes leave the throne by choice rather than being forced out. English has a specific verb for this act. In this question you must pick the word that means "to give up a throne voluntarily". Given Data / Assumptions: - The subject is a ruler or monarch who gives up power. - The act is voluntary, not by force, defeat, or death. - We need a verb that directly refers to giving up a throne or position of supreme authority. - Options include unrelated professions and character types, so you must filter carefully. Concept / Approach: The key term here is "abdicate". In English, "to abdicate" means to formally renounce or give up a throne, high office, responsibility, or power, especially by a monarch. The other words describe totally different ideas. The strategy is to recall the precise dictionary meaning of each option and match it to the phrase given in the question rather than selecting by vague familiarity. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on the phrase "give up a throne voluntarily". It must relate to a king, queen, or ruler. Step 2: Consider "Archer". This means someone who shoots using a bow and arrows, not related to giving up power. Step 3: Consider "Bigot". This is a person who is intolerant of people who hold different opinions or beliefs. Step 4: Consider "Abdicate". This has the precise meaning "to renounce a throne, high office, or responsibility". Step 5: Consider "Delegate". This means to assign responsibility or to send someone as a representative, not to give up a throne. Verification / Alternative check: Imagine a newspaper headline: "King decides to _____ the throne." Only "abdicate the throne" sounds natural and is common in English. Phrases like "Bigot the throne" or "Delegate the throne" are meaningless. "Archer the throne" is also not valid. This confirms that "abdicate" is the only word that fits both grammatically and semantically. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "Archer": Refers to someone skilled in archery, usually in sports or battle contexts. - "Bigot": Describes a narrow minded, prejudiced person, unrelated to kingship or renouncing power. - "Delegate": Means to assign tasks or send a representative; though related to authority, it does not mean surrendering the throne. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes confuse "abdicate" with "delegate" because both involve authority. Remember that "delegate" spreads or shares responsibility, whereas "abdicate" gives it up completely. Also, you must always read the full phrase carefully; the mention of a throne is a direct hint towards monarchy and therefore towards the verb "abdicate". Final Answer: The correct one-word substitute is Abdicate, which means to renounce or give up a throne voluntarily.

Question 20

Choose the correct one-word substitute for the phrase: "words written on the tomb of a person".

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question asks you to identify the exact term used for words carved or written on a person's tomb. Such words usually pay tribute to the dead person, summarising their life, qualities, or a thoughtful message. English has a specific noun for this and the exam expects you to distinguish between several similar looking words beginning with the prefix "epi". Given Data / Assumptions: - The phrase refers to words written on a tombstone or gravestone. - The tone is commemorative or descriptive of someone who has died. - The answer must be one single noun matching this description. - All options are real English words but with different meanings and uses. Concept / Approach: The correct term is "epitaph". An epitaph is a short text honouring a deceased person, often inscribed on a tomb or plaque. "Epigram" is a clever, witty, short poem or remark. "Epitome" is the perfect example of a quality or type or a brief summary of a larger work. "Epicure" refers to a person who enjoys fine food and drink. Recognising the correct word depends on precise knowledge rather than casual familiarity with spelling. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the central idea in the phrase: words on a tomb in memory of a dead person. Step 2: Recall that "epitaph" is defined as an inscription on a tomb or a brief composition in praise of a deceased person. Step 3: Check "epigram". It is a short, witty saying and is not restricted to tombs. Step 4: Check "epitome". It means a perfect example or a summary, not specifically related to death or graves. Step 5: Check "epicure". It relates to someone fond of luxurious food and drink, again unrelated to tombs. Verification / Alternative check: Insert each option into a sample sentence. "The epitaph on his grave brought tears to the eyes of visitors" is natural and correct. "The epigram on his grave" would emphasise wit rather than remembrance and is not the standard term. "The epitome on his grave" and "The epicure on his grave" clearly do not make sense. This confirms that only one option matches the phrase. Why Other Options Are Wrong: - "Epigram": Focuses on cleverness and wit, which can appear in many contexts, not specifically on tombstones. - "Epitome": Related to summarising or representing a perfect example, not to grave inscriptions. - "Epicure": Describes a lover of fine food and drink, completely unrelated to the context of death or memorials. Common Pitfalls: Many learners mix "epitaph" and "epitome" because they look similar. The simple memory trick is to remember that "epitaph" ends in "taph", which sounds like "tomb". Linking the sound with the idea of a grave helps you choose correctly in the exam. Also note that spelling is important; even a small change in letters often changes the meaning entirely in English vocabulary questions. Final Answer: The appropriate one-word substitute is Epitaph, which means the words written on a tomb in memory of the deceased person.

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