Question 1

In the following passage, some words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and select the correct answer for the blank. However, with rapid progress in technology in other _____ energy sources such as wind and solar power, the collapse of o…

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Introduction / Context: This cloze question belongs to a passage about energy choices. The sentence focuses on energy sources such as wind and solar power, which are well known in environmental discussions. The blank requires an adjective that correctly describes the type of energy these sources represent in modern energy policy language. Knowing basic environmental vocabulary is crucial here. Given Data / Assumptions: Sentence fragment: progress in technology in other _____ energy sources such as wind and solar power. Examples given: wind power and solar power. Options: brief, renewable, untenable, temporary. The passage discusses non fossil options and clean alternatives. Concept / Approach: Wind and solar power are classic examples of renewable energy sources because they rely on natural processes that are constantly replenished. The adjective renewable has a very strong and specific connection with these examples. The other adjectives do not describe energy types and do not match the positive environmental context. Therefore, recognising that wind and solar form the standard pair with renewable is the key to answering this question correctly. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the category of energy under discussion: wind and solar power.Step 2: Recall that these are almost always referred to as renewable energy sources in media, policy and academic texts.Step 3: Test renewable in the sentence: progress in technology in other renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power.Step 4: Notice that this matches standard phrases like renewable energy technology and renewable energy sector.Step 5: Check other adjectives, and see that brief, untenable and temporary do not describe the inherent nature of wind and solar energy.Step 6: Choose renewable as the only accurate and context appropriate option. Verification / Alternative check: Read the entire clause with the chosen word: with rapid progress in technology in other renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. This is exactly how a newspaper article or policy report would phrase it. If we replaced renewable with temporary, we would be saying that wind and solar power are short lived, which is not true and completely breaks the logic of the passage. Using untenable would mean unsustainable or impossible to defend, which again contradicts the idea of these sources as clean alternatives. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Brief: This means short in duration and is generally used for time, not for types of energy. A brief energy source is not a standard expression. Renewable: This is the correct answer and describes energy that can be naturally replenished. Untenable: This means not able to be defended or maintained. Calling wind and solar untenable energy sources would be inconsistent with their role as promising clean alternatives. Temporary: This suggests something that exists only for a short time, which does not describe the inherent nature of wind and solar power as energy categories. Common Pitfalls: Some test takers may choose a word based only on its general positive or serious sounding nature, without checking whether it actually collocates with energy sources. Others may not know the specific environmental term renewable and try to guess. To avoid such errors, it is useful to build a small core vocabulary for common exam themes such as environment, economics and technology. Renewable energy is a must know phrase, and whenever you see wind and solar together, renewable should immediately come to mind. Final Answer: The correct adjective to complete the phrase is renewable, giving the expression renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power.

Question 2

In the following passage, some words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and select the correct answer for the blank. With rapid progress in technology in other renewable energy sources, the collapse of oil prices and the expansion in gas…

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Introduction / Context: This final blank in the passage summarises the effect of changes in energy technology and markets on the earlier promise of nuclear power. The sentence lists several present or recent developments and then comments on how they have affected that promise. You need to choose the correct verb phrase that matches the tense and grammar of the sentence and expresses a completed but still relevant change. Given Data / Assumptions: Clause before the blank: With rapid progress in technology in other renewable energy sources, the collapse of oil prices and the expansion in gas projects as a viable and clean alternative. Subject of the verb: that promise, referring to the earlier promise of nuclear power. Options: to dim, dimming, was dim, has dimmed. The context: describing how this promise is no longer as bright as it once was. Concept / Approach: The structure with several present or near present developments, then that promise followed by a present perfect verb, is a typical way to say that something has changed over time and the result is still true now. The present perfect form has dimmed shows that the promise has become less bright or less attractive as these developments have occurred. The other forms either do not fit grammatically after that promise or they use a tense that does not match the surrounding context. Choosing the correct auxiliary and past participle combination is the key here. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the subject that promise and note that it is singular.Step 2: Recognise that the sentence describes a change that has happened because of the developments mentioned earlier.Step 3: Decide on the tense. Since the factors listed are recent and their effect continues now, present perfect is appropriate.Step 4: Form the present perfect for a singular subject: has plus past participle.Step 5: Use the verb dim in past participle form dimmed, giving has dimmed.Step 6: Insert has dimmed into the sentence and confirm that it reads naturally: that promise has dimmed. Verification / Alternative check: Read the whole sentence: With rapid progress in technology in other renewable energy sources, the collapse of oil prices and the expansion in gas projects as a viable and clean alternative, that promise has dimmed. This clearly means that the earlier attractive promise of nuclear power is not as strong now. If we switched to simple past was dim, the sentence would sound as if the promise was always weak, which contradicts the earlier statement that the promise had so far outweighed concerns. Present perfect links the past promise and the present reality appropriately. Why Other Options Are Wrong: To dim: This is an infinitive form and cannot function as the main verb of the clause after that promise. It would require a different structure such as began to dim, which is not provided. Dimming: This -ing form could be used in a different construction like that promise is dimming, but by itself it does not fit after the subject without an auxiliary. Was dim: This simple past form suggests a state in the past, not a change caused by recent developments. It also conflicts with the earlier description of the promise as strong. Has dimmed is the only option that captures the idea of a promise that has become weaker over time due to new circumstances. Common Pitfalls: Many candidates see an -ing form or infinitive and think it must fit somewhere, but forget that a full clause with a subject usually needs a finite verb that agrees in number and tense. Another common error is to choose simple past whenever the developments mentioned are in the past, without considering whether the result still matters in the present. The present perfect is especially common in analytical writing about trends, and recognising that pattern can help you select the right verb form. Always check agreement (has with a singular subject) and ensure you are not leaving the clause without a proper finite verb. Final Answer: The correct verb phrase to complete the sentence is has dimmed, giving the clause that promise has dimmed.

Question 3

In the following question, some part of the sentence may have errors. Find out which part of the sentence has an error and select the appropriate option. If the sentence is free from error, select "No error". She has (1) reduced her (2) consumption …

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Introduction / Context: This is an error spotting question that focuses on the correct placement and use of an adverb in a sentence. The sentence describes someone lowering how much they consume, probably in the context of food, electricity or spending. You must identify which part contains a grammatical or usage error according to standard English rules used in competitive exams. Given Data / Assumptions: Segment 1: She has. Segment 2: reduced her. Segment 3: consumption to considerably. Segment 4: No error. The likely intended meaning is that she has considerably reduced her consumption or she has reduced her consumption considerably. Concept / Approach: In English, adverbs such as considerably usually come either directly after the verb phrase or at the end of the clause. The pattern consumption to considerably is ungrammatical because the adverb appears after the preposition to with no following noun or phrase. The word to normally introduces a limit or amount (for example, to a very low level), not an adverb on its own. Therefore, the error lies in the third part of the sentence and can be corrected by moving the adverb to another position or adding a proper object after to. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Read the sentence aloud: She has reduced her consumption to considerably.Step 2: Notice that after the preposition to we would expect a noun phrase such as a minimum or a lower level, not just an adverb.Step 3: Consider the idiomatic alternatives: She has considerably reduced her consumption or She has reduced her consumption considerably.Step 4: Confirm that segments 1 and 2, She has reduced her, are grammatically correct and complete part of the verb phrase.Step 5: Identify that the error is located in segment 3, consumption to considerably, because of the incorrect construction.Step 6: Conclude that option 3 is the correct answer, indicating the part with the error. Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite the sentence correctly: She has reduced her consumption considerably. Now break it into the same segments: She has (1) reduced her (2) consumption considerably (3). In this version, the third part is also where the change occurs. This confirms that segment 3 in the original sentence is the problematic one and requires correction. You could also say She has considerably reduced her consumption, where considerably would move into segment 2, but exam questions usually mark the most obvious error rather than every possible improvement. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option 1: She has is a correct auxiliary plus subject combination and does not contain any grammatical error. Option 2: reduced her is the beginning of the verb phrase with its object. It is perfectly acceptable in the sentence. Option 4: No error would only be correct if none of the segments contained any mistake, but we have already identified the issue in segment 3, so this cannot be chosen. Common Pitfalls: Some learners may feel that the sentence sounds slightly odd but fail to pinpoint the exact error and may choose No error out of confusion. Others may suspect something in segments 1 or 2 because they focus on the present perfect but overlook the more obvious structural mistake in the phrase consumption to considerably. To avoid such mistakes, pay special attention to the words that follow prepositions like to, of and for. When an adverb appears after such a preposition with no supporting noun, it is usually a sign of incorrect structure in exam style sentences. Final Answer: The error is in part 3, where consumption to considerably should be corrected to a structure such as consumption considerably or to a considerably lower level.

Question 4

In the following question, some part of the sentence may have errors. Find out which part of the sentence has an error and select the appropriate option. If a sentence is free from error, select "No error". Liquid water cannot exist on the surface o…

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Introduction / Context: This error spotting question deals with the correct use of a prepositional phrase explaining a scientific fact about Mars. The sentence explains why liquid water cannot normally exist on the Martian surface. You must identify which part contains an error according to standard grammar rules. The key issue is the incorrect expression as to low, which should be replaced by a correct reason giving phrase. Given Data / Assumptions: Segment 1: Liquid water cannot exist on the surface of Mars as to low. Segment 2: atmospheric pressure, which is less than 1% of Earth's, Segment 3: except at the lowest elevations for short periods. Segment 4: No error. The intended meaning is because of low atmospheric pressure. Concept / Approach: In English, when we want to express a reason using a noun phrase, we normally use due to, because of, or owing to rather than as to. The phrase as to low atmospheric pressure is incorrect because as to introduces a topic or reference, not a cause. The correct structure here should be due to low atmospheric pressure or because of low atmospheric pressure. Therefore, the error lies in the first segment of the sentence. The rest of the sentence, including the scientific information about pressure and elevations, is grammatically acceptable. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Read segment 1 carefully: Liquid water cannot exist on the surface of Mars as to low.Step 2: Recognise that as to is usually followed by a noun or pronoun meaning regarding or concerning, as in As to your question, the answer is complex.Step 3: Note that in this sentence, we need a reason phrase meaning because of low atmospheric pressure.Step 4: Understand that the correct expression would be due to low atmospheric pressure or because of low atmospheric pressure.Step 5: Identify that the error occurs where as to is used instead of due to or because of, which is part of segment 1.Step 6: Conclude that option 1 is the correct answer, indicating the erroneous segment. Verification / Alternative check: Rewrite the sentence correctly: Liquid water cannot exist on the surface of Mars due to low atmospheric pressure, which is less than 1% of Earth's, except at the lowest elevations for short periods. In this corrected version, each clause is grammatically sound. Segment 2 correctly uses a relative clause to give more information about atmospheric pressure. Segment 3 properly expresses the exception at the lowest elevations. This confirms that the only real issue is in segment 1, where the wrong preposition phrase is used. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option 2: atmospheric pressure, which is less than 1% of Earth's, is grammatically correct. It correctly uses a relative clause to describe the pressure. Option 3: except at the lowest elevations for short periods is a correct prepositional phrase indicating limited conditions. Option 4: No error cannot be chosen because we have clearly found an incorrect phrase in segment 1, so the sentence is not error free. Common Pitfalls: Some learners may be distracted by the scientific content and the use of percentages and think the error lies in the numbers, but those are accurate. Others may not be familiar with the phrase as to and may accept it as correct, especially if they have seen it in other contexts. Remember that as to means regarding or about, whereas due to and because of express cause. In error spotting questions, always focus on the function of the phrase in the sentence. Here, since the phrase clearly introduces a reason, only due to or because of would be acceptable, not as to. Final Answer: The error is in part 1; the phrase as to low should be replaced by due to low or because of low atmospheric pressure.

Question 5

In the following question, some part of the sentence may have errors. Find out which part of the sentence has an error and select the appropriate option. If a sentence is free from error, select "No error". Liquid water cannot exist on the surface o…

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Introduction / Context: This question repeats the same scientific sentence about Mars and again asks you to locate the grammatical error. It checks your ability to recognise an incorrect prepositional phrase that attempts to introduce a reason. Even when the content is scientific, the focus remains on standard English usage, especially when expressing cause and effect. Given Data / Assumptions: Segment 1: Liquid water cannot exist on the surface of Mars as to low. Segment 2: atmospheric pressure, which is less than 1% of Earth's, Segment 3: except at the lowest elevations for short periods. Segment 4: No error. The intended sense is that liquid water cannot exist because the atmospheric pressure is too low. Concept / Approach: To express a reason using a noun phrase, English prefers due to or because of rather than as to. The phrase as to commonly means regarding or about and is used to introduce topics, not causes. For example, As to your request means regarding your request. In this sentence, as to low atmospheric pressure is wrong because it tries to carry a causal meaning. The grammatically correct phrasing would be due to low atmospheric pressure or because of low atmospheric pressure. Therefore, the error clearly falls in segment 1. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Focus on the part that links the impossibility of liquid water to the explanation involving atmospheric pressure.Step 2: Notice that as to low appears immediately before atmospheric pressure, making the full phrase as to low atmospheric pressure.Step 3: Recognise that as to is not a standard way to express cause, while due to or because of are correct for causal relationships.Step 4: Consider the corrected version: Liquid water cannot exist on the surface of Mars due to low atmospheric pressure.Step 5: Observe that this correction changes only the part contained in segment 1, confirming that this is where the error lies.Step 6: Mark option 1 as the segment with the error. Verification / Alternative check: Using the corrected phrase, the full sentence becomes: Liquid water cannot exist on the surface of Mars due to low atmospheric pressure, which is less than 1% of Earth's, except at the lowest elevations for short periods. Each of the remaining segments now fits smoothly. The relative clause in segment 2 gives more detail about how low the pressure is. The exception clause in segment 3 is also grammatically correct. Because only segment 1 required a change, this confirms our choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option 2: atmospheric pressure, which is less than 1% of Earth's, is a correct and precise relative clause structure. Option 3: except at the lowest elevations for short periods is a properly formed phrase describing the limited situations in which liquid water might exist. Option 4: No error is incorrect because we have clearly identified a phrase that violates standard expression of cause and would be corrected in good written English. Common Pitfalls: Because the sentence contains technical facts and percentages, some students may focus on the scientific information and suspect an error there, but the science is accurate. Others may not be familiar with how as to is used and mistakenly treat it as a generic linking phrase that can mean anything. To avoid these mistakes, remember that each preposition has specific functions. Due to and because of are the usual choices when linking a result with its cause using a noun phrase, while as to is reserved for meaning regarding or in relation to. Recognising these patterns quickly will help you answer similar questions confidently. Final Answer: The incorrect part is 1; the phrase as to low should be replaced with due to low or because of low atmospheric pressure.

Question 6

In the following question, the sentence is given with a blank to be filled in with an appropriate phrase. Select the correct alternative out of the four and indicate it by selecting the appropriate option. That is _____ cars I know.

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Introduction / Context: This fill in the blank question tests your understanding of comparative and superlative structures in English, especially the pattern used when we compare one item with a larger group. The sentence talks about a particular car and how bad it is compared to other cars that the speaker knows. The phrase must fit grammatically and logically with the plural noun cars that follows. Given Data / Assumptions: Sentence: That is _____ cars I know. Noun immediately after the blank: cars, which is plural. Options: the worst, worst, mostly worst, one of the worst. The likely intended meaning: the car is among the worst cars that the speaker knows. Concept / Approach: When we compare a single item with a group of many and want to say that it belongs to the bottom or top part of that group, we use the structure one of the plus superlative plus plural noun. For example, one of the best films, one of the tallest buildings, or one of the worst mistakes. In this sentence, because cars is plural and we are referring to a particular car as part of that group, the natural structure is one of the worst cars. The other options do not fit both the grammar and the intended meaning correctly. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Note that the noun after the blank is cars, a plural noun.Step 2: Decide whether we are talking about one car or all cars in general. The word that is points to one specific car.Step 3: Recall the pattern for comparing one item against a group: one of the plus superlative plus plural noun.Step 4: Apply this pattern: one of the worst cars fits perfectly with the structure That is one of the worst cars I know.Step 5: Check each option inside the sentence to ensure grammatical correctness and natural sound.Step 6: Confirm that only one of the worst produces a complete and idiomatic sentence. Verification / Alternative check: Insert the chosen phrase fully: That is one of the worst cars I know. This sentence means that among all the cars the speaker knows, this particular car belongs to the group of very bad ones. It is a common and natural way to express a strong negative comparison. If we try That is the worst cars I know, we see an agreement problem between the worst and cars, since the worst used in this way normally goes with a singular noun, such as the worst car. Similarly, That is worst cars I know is clearly ungrammatical because it lacks the or one of the before the superlative. Why Other Options Are Wrong: The worst: This would be correct if the noun were singular, as in That is the worst car I know. With the plural cars, however, the phrase the worst cars refers to more than one car, which conflicts with That is, pointing to a single car. Worst: Using worst alone without an article or supporting phrase is incorrect here and sounds incomplete: That is worst cars I know does not follow standard English patterns. Mostly worst: This phrase is not a standard English expression. Mostly is used with adjectives in other ways, but mostly worst cars sounds ungrammatical and awkward. Common Pitfalls: Many learners mix up the structures for absolute superlatives and part of a group comparisons. They may know that the worst is the strongest form and try to use it everywhere, even when the sentence actually requires one of the worst. Another common mistake is ignoring subject noun agreement and just checking whether the phrase looks strong. To avoid such errors, always check the number of the noun following the blank and ask whether you are picking out the single best or worst item in the whole group, or simply saying that the item belongs to that extreme group. If it is part of a group, one of the plus superlative plus plural noun is usually required. Final Answer: The correct phrase to complete the sentence is one of the worst, giving That is one of the worst cars I know.

Question 7

In the following question, the sentence is given with a blank to be filled in with an appropriate word. Select the correct alternative out of the four and indicate it by selecting the appropriate option. The _____ of many archaic and dilatory proced…

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Introduction / Context: This question asks you to choose the correct noun that completes a formal sentence about governance and administrative procedures. The sentence criticises old and slow procedures and comments on how they have harmed governance and society. The noun in the blank must collocate naturally with of many archaic and dilatory procedures and fit the negative tone of the sentence. Given Data / Assumptions: Sentence: The _____ of many archaic and dilatory procedures have proved to be extremely damaging to our governance and society. Options: caution, translation, imposition, revolution. Phrase following the blank: of many archaic and dilatory procedures. The overall meaning: introducing or enforcing these outdated procedures has caused damage. Concept / Approach: The word imposition is commonly used to describe the act of forcing rules, taxes, restrictions or procedures on people. The phrase the imposition of many archaic and dilatory procedures fits naturally in reports and editorial writing about administration. The other options do not match the idea of enforcing procedures. Caution relates to carefulness, translation to converting one language into another, and revolution to sudden large change. Only imposition captures the sense of adding burdensome processes that damage governance. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the core idea: old and slow procedures are being applied in a way that harms governance.Step 2: Recognise that we need a noun that describes the act of enforcing or introducing these procedures.Step 3: Recall the expression imposition of rules, imposition of restrictions, and imposition of taxes, all of which parallel this context.Step 4: Insert imposition into the sentence: The imposition of many archaic and dilatory procedures have proved to be extremely damaging.Step 5: Check that this collocation is natural and frequently used in formal English.Step 6: Review the other options and see that none of them create a logical and idiomatic phrase with of many archaic and dilatory procedures. Verification / Alternative check: Think of similar sentences found in newspapers: The imposition of unnecessary regulations has slowed economic growth or The imposition of outdated rules has hurt efficiency. Here, imposition clearly refers to the act of applying those rules. The same logic applies to procedures. If we tried The caution of many archaic and dilatory procedures, it would be unclear and grammatically awkward. The translation or revolution of procedures also do not carry the intended meaning of being forced upon the system. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Caution: Caution refers to carefulness or warning, not to the act of applying procedures. It does not fit logically before of many archaic and dilatory procedures. Translation: Translation concerns changing words from one language to another and is unrelated to the idea of enforcing administrative procedures. Revolution: Revolution means radical change or overthrow. While it is used in political and social contexts, the revolution of procedures is not a standard phrase and does not match the idea of outdated processes causing damage because they are enforced, not because they suddenly change. Common Pitfalls: Some candidates may be tempted by revolution because it sounds dramatic and political, but the adjectives archaic and dilatory show that the procedures are old and slow, not revolutionary. Others might choose caution thinking of careful governance, but the sentence clearly says the effect is damaging, not protective. To avoid such mistakes, always pay attention to collocations: which nouns typically go with of plus rules, procedures or regulations. Imposition is a strong and common partner in such contexts and should stand out as the most suitable option. Final Answer: The word that correctly completes the sentence is imposition, giving The imposition of many archaic and dilatory procedures have proved to be extremely damaging to our governance and society.

Question 8

In the following question, out of the given four alternatives, select the one which best expresses the meaning of the given word. Curtail.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question asks for a synonym of the verb curtail. Such questions test whether you know both the meaning and the direction of common verbs. Curtail is often used in formal writing about budgets, freedoms, programmes or activities that are reduced or cut short. You must select the option that is closest in meaning to this idea of reducing or cutting down. Given Data / Assumptions: Target word: Curtail. Options: Prolong, Downsize, Lengthen, Extend. The word appears without additional context, but its usual meanings apply. Concept / Approach: Curtail means to reduce in quantity, extent or duration, or to cut short something that was planned or in progress. It has a negative or limiting sense. Among the options, downsize means to reduce size, scale or number, especially in organisations or projects, and is closest to curtail in overall meaning. The other three options all mean to increase duration or amount in some way: prolong means to make longer in time, lengthen to make longer in distance or time, and extend to stretch out or increase. These are opposite in direction to curtail. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall the main meaning of curtail: to cut down, reduce or shorten.Step 2: Consider typical phrases such as curtail spending, curtail freedom, curtail the programme, all of which involve limiting something.Step 3: Examine downsize, which describes reducing size or capacity, especially in companies or plans.Step 4: See that both curtail and downsize involve cutting back or reducing, making them close synonyms.Step 5: Note that prolong, lengthen and extend all involve making something last longer or become larger.Step 6: Choose downsize as the only option that shares the same basic direction of change as curtail. Verification / Alternative check: Use the words in similar example sentences. If the company decides to curtail its operations, it might close some branches. If the company decides to downsize its operations, it might also close some branches. The overall effect is similar: a reduction in scale. By contrast, if the company decides to extend or prolong its operations, it would keep working longer or on a larger scale, which is the opposite of curtail. This comparison confirms that downsize is the best synonym from the list. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Prolong: This means to make something continue for a longer time, as in prolong the meeting or prolong the conflict, which goes against the idea of cutting something short. Lengthen: This is used to mean make longer, often for objects or time, such as lengthen a skirt or lengthen a deadline. This is again the reverse of reducing. Extend: Extend means to stretch out or make greater in area, distance or time, as in extend the road, extend support, or extend the contract. It does not carry the idea of reduction. Common Pitfalls: Sometimes exam takers confuse curtail with curative or curtain because of similar spelling and may wrongly associate it with healing or covering. Others might misread the question and look for an antonym instead of a synonym. Always read the instruction carefully: here it clearly asks for the meaning of the given word. When you see curtail, think of words like reduce, cut down, trim, restrict or downsize. If the option points towards increasing or lengthening, it is likely to be wrong. Final Answer: The option that best expresses the meaning of curtail is Downsize.

Question 9

In the following question, out of the given four alternatives, select the one which best expresses the meaning of the given word. Inference.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This vocabulary question asks you to choose the best synonym for the noun inference. In reading comprehension, logical reasoning and scientific discussions, the word inference appears very often. It refers to something that is logically drawn from given information, not directly stated. Understanding this word is essential for scoring well in English sections of competitive exams. Given Data / Assumptions: Target word: Inference. Options: Beginning, Conclusion, Preparation, Discovery. No sentence is given, but the standard meaning of inference applies. Concept / Approach: An inference is a conclusion that you reach on the basis of evidence and reasoning. It is what you understand or deduce from facts, statements or data. While discovery refers to finding something new, inference refers to the logical result of thinking about what you already know. Among the options, conclusion matches this idea most closely, because a conclusion is also a final judgement or decision reached after consideration. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that inference means a logical deduction or conclusion drawn from evidence.Step 2: Look at conclusion, which means a final decision or judgement reached after thinking about something.Step 3: Recognise that in reading comprehension, questions often say Which of the following inferences can be drawn? where inference and conclusion are very close in meaning.Step 4: Examine the other words. Beginning refers to a start point, which is opposite to the idea of a result. Preparation is the act of getting ready, not the logical result of reasoning. Discovery means finding something previously unknown, often in science or exploration.Step 5: Decide that conclusion is the only option that captures the idea of a result of reasoning, so it is the correct synonym. Verification / Alternative check: Think of typical exam instructions: Based on the passage, what inference can be drawn about the author's opinion? If we replace inference with conclusion, the instruction becomes Based on the passage, what conclusion can be drawn about the author's opinion? This shows that the two words are interchangeable in many reading questions. On the other hand, replacing inference with discovery or preparation would change the meaning and sound unnatural in this context. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Beginning: This word refers to the initial part of an event, story or process and is not connected to reasoning or results. Preparation: Preparation is the process of making something ready. It happens before action, not after analysis, and therefore is not related to the idea of a logical result. Discovery: Discovery means finding something new or unknown, such as a new planet or a new fact. Although discoveries can lead to inferences, they are not the same thing. An inference is a mental conclusion, not the act of finding the fact itself. Common Pitfalls: Some students may confuse inference with information, thinking it simply means a piece of knowledge. Others may confuse it with discovery because both can appear in scientific contexts. To avoid these mistakes, remember that inference is about what your mind does with the information. It is a conclusion that is not directly stated but can be deduced. Whenever a question asks what we can infer from the passage, it is asking what conclusion we can reasonably reach based on the given data. Final Answer: The word that best expresses the meaning of inference is Conclusion.

Question 10

In the following question, out of the given four alternatives, select the one which is opposite in meaning to the given word. Consensus.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question tests your knowledge of antonyms for important social and political vocabulary. The word consensus is widely used in discussions of group decisions, politics and negotiations. It describes a situation in which most or all people agree. You need to choose the option that expresses the opposite idea, that is, disagreement or lack of harmony. Given Data / Assumptions: Target word: Consensus. Options: Accord, Discord, Consent, Unity. We are asked for the opposite in meaning, not the same or similar meaning. Concept / Approach: Consensus means general agreement among the members of a group. The word comes from a root meaning to feel together. The opposite of agreement is disagreement or conflict. Among the options, discord is the term that directly expresses lack of agreement or harmony. Accord, consent and unity are all close to consensus in meaning and therefore cannot be antonyms. Recognising that consensus is positive agreement and discord is open disagreement is the key here. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Define consensus as general or wide agreement in opinion or feeling.Step 2: Identify that we must find a word that describes the opposite state: disagreement, conflict or disharmony.Step 3: Look at discord, which means disagreement between people, lack of harmony or conflict.Step 4: Compare with accord, which actually means agreement or harmony, making it similar to consensus.Step 5: Consider consent, which means permission or agreement to do something, also similar to consensus.Step 6: Note that unity refers to being joined together or acting as one, again a positive agreement related word. Only discord goes in the opposite direction. Verification / Alternative check: Use the words in simple sentences. The committee reached a consensus on the new policy means the committee members agreed. The committee remained in discord over the new policy means the committee members disagreed and could not agree. If we replaced consensus with accord or unity, the positive meaning would remain. Replacing consensus with discord, however, reverses the meaning and indicates conflict, confirming that discord is the antonym. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Accord: Accord means agreement or harmony, often used in formal contexts such as peace accords. It is a synonym of consensus, not an antonym. Consent: Consent means approval or permission, often personal or legal, and again expresses agreement rather than disagreement. Unity: Unity means oneness or the state of being joined together, often used to describe groups that stand together instead of being divided. It is consistent with consensus, not opposite to it. Common Pitfalls: Students sometimes misread the question and think they are being asked for a synonym instead of an antonym. This can lead them to choose accord or consent, both of which are close in meaning to consensus. To avoid this mistake, always underline in your mind whether the question says similar meaning or opposite meaning. When you see words like consensus, look immediately for their natural opposite: disagreement, conflict or discord. That mental pairing will help you answer quickly and accurately. Final Answer: The word opposite in meaning to consensus is Discord.

Question 11

In the following question, out of the given four alternatives, select the one which is opposite in meaning to the given word. Mould.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question focuses on an antonym of the word mould. In exam English, mould is often used as a noun meaning a pattern or style into which people or things are shaped, or as a verb meaning to shape or form something. In many contexts, especially when speaking about character or personality, mould suggests something formed according to a standard pattern rather than truly original. The opposite idea is that of being genuine or not artificially shaped. Given Data / Assumptions: Target word: Mould. Options: Genuine, Shape, Slice, Sculpt. We are asked for the opposite in meaning, not the same meaning. Shape and sculpt are clearly related to forming something. Concept / Approach: As a verb, to mould means to shape or form something, often according to a pattern. As a noun, mould can also refer to the pattern itself. In many figurative uses, being in a mould means being shaped by external influences rather than being unique. Therefore, a natural opposite idea is genuine or original, that is, not formed by a standard pattern. Among the options, genuine is the only word that carries this sense of being real, true or authentic. Shape and sculpt are synonyms of mould in its verb sense, while slice is unrelated to this conceptual pair. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall that mould can mean to shape or form, especially by using a pattern.Step 2: Notice that shape and sculpt also mean to form or model something, often physically.Step 3: Recognise that slice is a cutting action and does not express the opposite of forming according to a pattern.Step 4: Consider genuine, which means real, authentic, not artificial or imitated.Step 5: In figurative expressions, a person not pressed into a mould is someone who remains genuine and original, so genuine functions as an opposite in spirit.Step 6: Conclude that genuine is the correct antonym among the options provided. Verification / Alternative check: Imagine two descriptions: He was moulded by strict traditions and He was a genuine free spirit. The first suggests someone shaped and restricted by a pattern, while the second suggests someone who is original and not shaped by those patterns. This shows how mould and genuine can represent opposing ideas in many character and personality contexts. If we attempted to use shape or sculpt as antonyms, we would instead be picking synonyms of mould, which would be incorrect in an antonym question. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Shape: This is very close in meaning to mould, as it also means to give form or outline to something. Therefore, it cannot be an antonym. Slice: Slice means to cut into pieces or thin parts and is not conceptually opposite to forming or patterning; it simply describes a different action. Sculpt: Sculpt is also similar to mould, as it means to carve or fashion a three dimensional work, especially in art. Again, this is a synonym in many contexts, not an opposite. Common Pitfalls: Because the word mould is strongly associated with shaping and forming, many students automatically search for a mechanical opposite like break or destroy. When such options are not present, they may become confused. In exam questions, however, antonyms sometimes rely on deeper conceptual opposites, such as shaped versus genuine, artificial versus authentic. Always consider both literal and figurative meanings and think about how the word is actually used in real sentences. Here, genuine stands out as representing originality and authenticity, which conflicts with the idea of being cast in a mould. Final Answer: The option opposite in meaning to mould is Genuine.

Question 12

Rearrange the parts of the sentence in correct order. In developing countries today P: urban health conditions Q: than rural health conditions R: seem to be better.

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Introduction / Context: This question tests your ability to rearrange sentence parts into a grammatically correct and meaningful order. The sentence compares urban and rural health conditions in developing countries. You are given three fragments labelled P, Q and R and must decide which order produces a smooth, logical sentence when they follow the opening phrase In developing countries today. Given Data / Assumptions: Introductory phrase: In developing countries today. P: urban health conditions. Q: than rural health conditions. R: seem to be better. Options are different permutations of P, Q and R. Concept / Approach: We need to form a comparative sentence using better than. In English, the comparative pattern is subject plus verb plus comparative adjective plus than plus comparison. Here, urban health conditions is the subject, seem to be better is the verb phrase plus comparative adjective, and than rural health conditions is the comparison phrase. So the logical order after the introductory phrase is P (subject), R (verb plus better) and Q (than phrase). That gives: urban health conditions seem to be better than rural health conditions. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Combine the beginning with each fragment mentally: In developing countries today urban health conditions, which suggests P should come first because it continues the subject.Step 2: Decide what must follow the subject. We need a verb phrase, and R begins with seem to be better, which functions as the predicate.Step 3: Place R after P to get: In developing countries today urban health conditions seem to be better.Step 4: Recognise that better is a comparative and therefore needs a than phrase to complete the comparison.Step 5: Add Q at the end: than rural health conditions, giving the full sentence: In developing countries today urban health conditions seem to be better than rural health conditions.Step 6: Match this order with the option codes and select PRQ. Verification / Alternative check: Check the other permutations quickly. PQR would produce In developing countries today urban health conditions than rural health conditions seem to be better, which is ungrammatical because the than clause appears before the verb. QRP would start with than rural health conditions, which cannot follow directly after the introductory phrase. RPQ would give seem to be better urban health conditions than rural health conditions after the opening, which also breaks normal subject verb order. Only PRQ preserves proper subject, verb, complement and comparison sequence. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B (PQR): Inserts the comparison than rural health conditions immediately after the subject but before the verb, which is not correct in English. Option C (QRP): Starts the main clause with a than phrase, leaving no subject at the expected place after the introductory phrase. Option D (RPQ): Begins with seem to be better, which is a verb phrase without a subject, creating a sentence fragment and misplacing the subject afterwards. Common Pitfalls: Some learners focus only on the comparative word than and may try to put that fragment immediately after better without considering the need for a complete subject and verb structure first. Others might be tempted by patterns that sound partially right when spoken quickly but actually violate basic word order rules. A reliable strategy for jumble questions is to identify the subject, then the main verb, and then supporting phrases like comparatives or adverbials. Once you recognise that urban health conditions is the subject and seem to be better is the predicate, the position of than rural health conditions naturally falls at the end. Final Answer: The correct order of the parts is PRQ, giving the sentence: In developing countries today urban health conditions seem to be better than rural health conditions.

Question 13

A sentence has been given in the active voice. Out of the four given alternatives, select the one which best expresses the same sentence in the passive voice. The workers are building the house.

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Introduction / Context: This question checks your knowledge of forming the passive voice of a present continuous tense sentence. The original sentence, The workers are building the house, describes an action that is in progress at the present time. You must choose the passive sentence that preserves both the tense and the meaning, while correctly changing the focus from the doer to the receiver of the action. Given Data / Assumptions: Active sentence: The workers are building the house. Subject: The workers. Verb phrase: are building (present continuous). Object: the house. The passive voice sentence must keep present continuous and mention the house as the subject. Concept / Approach: To change a sentence from active to passive voice, the object of the active sentence becomes the subject of the passive sentence. For present continuous tense, the passive structure is: am or is or are plus being plus past participle of the main verb. Here, build is the base verb and built is the past participle. The time reference must remain present and ongoing, so we must keep is being built, not was being built or was built. The agent the workers can appear after by if we want to keep the information about who is performing the action. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the object in the active sentence: the house.Step 2: Move the house to the subject position of the passive sentence: The house.Step 3: Recognise that present continuous in active form is are building, so the passive requires is being built for a singular subject.Step 4: Use is because the new subject the house is singular.Step 5: Add the agent phrase by the workers to show who is doing the building.Step 6: Combine all parts to form The house is being built by the workers and match this with the correct option. Verification / Alternative check: Convert the chosen passive sentence back to active voice. From The house is being built by the workers, we identify the workers as the doer, use the present continuous are building, and take the house as the object again, recreating The workers are building the house. This confirms that the tense and meaning are preserved. None of the other options give a present continuous passive that can be reversed to the original sentence without changing the time reference. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option A: The house was being built by the workers uses past continuous tense, suggesting the action was happening at some time in the past, not right now. Option B: The house was built by the workers is simple past tense, describing a completed action, and lacks the sense of ongoing activity. Option C: The house is built by the workers is simple present passive, which could describe a habitual action rather than a specific current activity. Only option D correctly captures the idea that the building is in progress at the present moment. Common Pitfalls: Students often forget to include being in the passive form of the continuous tenses, producing structures like is built instead of is being built. Others confuse present continuous with simple present and select sentences that talk about general truths rather than current actions. To avoid these mistakes, always break down the original verb phrase into tense and aspect: here, present (are) plus continuous (building). Then build the passive with the same tense and aspect using be plus being plus past participle. Doing this systematically will help you form passive sentences accurately every time. Final Answer: The correct passive form of the sentence is The house is being built by the workers.

Question 14

A sentence has been given in direct speech. Out of the four given alternatives, select the one which best expresses the same sentence in indirect speech. Sneha said to Arjun, "Go away."

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Introduction / Context: This question tests your ability to convert an imperative sentence from direct speech into indirect speech. The direct speech is a clear command where Sneha tells Arjun to leave. When reporting commands or orders, English usually uses verbs like tell, ask or order followed by an infinitive form. Recognising the tone of the original sentence helps you choose the appropriate reporting verb in indirect speech. Given Data / Assumptions: Direct sentence: Sneha said to Arjun, "Go away." Speaker: Sneha. Listener: Arjun. Type of sentence inside quotes: imperative command. Options provide different reporting verbs and structures in indirect speech. Concept / Approach: When converting an imperative command to indirect speech, we normally use a reporting verb that reflects the strength of the instruction, such as ordered, told or requested. The imperative verb go changes to the infinitive to go. The phrase said to is usually changed to told or ordered when followed by an object. Because Go away is a direct and strong command, ordered to go away is more suitable than politely asked. There is no need for a that clause in this structure; instead, we use verb of command plus object plus to infinitive. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify that the quoted sentence "Go away" is a command telling someone to leave.Step 2: Recognise that Sneha is giving a direct order to Arjun, not asking a question or giving information.Step 3: Choose a reporting verb that matches this tone. Ordered is appropriate for strong commands.Step 4: Convert the imperative verb go into the infinitive to go in indirect speech.Step 5: Arrange the elements: Sneha ordered Arjun to go away, where Arjun is the object of the reporting verb and to go away reflects the original command.Step 6: Compare with the options and see that option A matches exactly. Verification / Alternative check: Consider what happens if we paraphrase the direct speech: Sneha ordered Arjun, "Go away." In narrative form, this is naturally rewritten as Sneha ordered Arjun to go away. The meaning and the strong tone of the command are preserved. The structure is also consistent with other standard examples like The teacher ordered the students to keep quiet or The guard ordered them to stop. This confirms that the selected indirect speech sentence is correct and idiomatic. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Option B: Sneha asked Arjun that he should go away is incorrect for two reasons. First, asked is too mild for a direct command like Go away. Second, the structure asked someone that he should go away is ungrammatical; asked is usually followed by for, about, or a wh clause, not a that clause in this way. Option C: Sneha say to Arjun to go away contains a verb form error; it should be said, not say, and the structure still sounds incorrect and incomplete. Option D: Sneha inquired Arjun to go away is wrong because inquired is used for questions or seeking information, not for commands. Common Pitfalls: One common mistake is to keep said to in reported commands instead of changing it to told or ordered. Another is to overuse the that he should structure, which is more appropriate after verbs like suggested or proposed, not typically after strong commands. Students may also misidentify the sentence type and treat a command like a question or statement. To avoid such errors, first classify the quoted speech as a command, request, question or statement. Then choose a reporting verb and structure that match that type. For commands, verbs such as ordered, told and commanded plus to infinitive are your safest choices. Final Answer: The correct indirect speech form is Sneha ordered Arjun to go away.

Question 15

In the following question, a word has been written in four different ways out of which only one is correctly spelt. Select the correctly spelt word.

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Introduction / Context: This spelling question asks you to identify the correct spelling of a word that describes hostile or violent behaviour. The options contain common types of spelling mistakes such as doubling the wrong consonants or omitting letters. Recognising the correct form of frequently tested words is important for error free writing and for scoring well in objective English tests. Given Data / Assumptions: All four options are variants of the word meaning hostile or attacking behaviour. The standard spelling in English is aggression. Options: Aggrression, Aggrresion, Aggression, Agrresson. Concept / Approach: The correct spelling aggression has two g letters and two s letters, arranged as a double g followed by a single r and then a double s: a g g r e s s i o n. Many spelling distractors repeat letters in the wrong place or drop vowels. To answer correctly, you should mentally break the word into syllables and check the pattern ag gress ion, where gress is the core part also seen in words like aggressor and digression with similar consonant patterns. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recall or look up mentally the standard spelling of the word aggression: a g g r e s s i o n.Step 2: Compare each option with this mental template.Step 3: Option C, Aggression, matches exactly: a g g r e s s i o n.Step 4: Option A, Aggrression, has three consecutive r letters after the double g, which is incorrect and looks visually excessive.Step 5: Option B, Aggrresion, has a double r but only a single s, so the core gress part is misspelt.Step 6: Option D, Agrresson, moves one g away and also distorts the placement of vowels, producing a non standard form. Verification / Alternative check: Think of related words to cross check the consonant pattern. The noun aggression relates to the adjective aggressive and the noun aggressor. Aggressive is spelt a g g r e s s i v e, and aggressor is a g g r e s s o r. In both cases there is a double g followed by a single r and a double s. The base unit gress stays constant. This confirms that aggression must follow the same pattern, making Aggression in option C the only correct spelling. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Aggrression: This form has an extra r, giving g g r r, which has no support in any related English word. Aggrresion: Here the double consonant is r r and there is only one s, which breaks the common pattern gress. Agrresson: This version loses one g and also misplaces the vowels, creating a form that does not match any standard English word. All three are typical exam distractors designed to confuse test takers who are unsure of where the double letters go. Common Pitfalls: Spelling questions often rely on the confusion caused by pairs of repeated consonants. Learners may remember that the word has doubles but forget exactly where. Some may over correct by adding too many repeated letters, while others may under correct and remove necessary ones. A good strategy is to memorise a small set of high frequency tricky spellings, especially words commonly used in exams like aggression, occasion, accommodate and necessary. Using families of words, for example, aggression, aggressor and aggressive, also helps fix the pattern in your memory. Final Answer: The correctly spelt word is Aggression, which appears as option C.

Question 16

In the following passage about a traditional kerosene pump stove, some of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and select the correct answer for the given blank from the four alternatives. When the kerosene burned, the fuel in th…

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Introduction / Context: This English comprehension question is based on a short passage that describes how a traditional kerosene pump stove works. The examinee has to choose the most appropriate preposition to complete the phrase the fuel in the tank below would be ____ pressure. Such questions test knowledge of standard English collocations as well as the ability to understand a technical description in context. Given Data / Assumptions: The passage talks about kerosene burning in a tank below a stove burner. When the kerosene burns, pressure builds up in the tank. We are asked to fill the blank in the phrase the fuel in the tank below would be ____ pressure. The options are inside, into, about, and under. The sentence must sound natural and grammatically correct in standard English. Concept / Approach: The key concept here is collocation, which means the typical combination of words that native speakers naturally use together. With the noun pressure, English uses the fixed phrase under pressure to express that something is subject to or experiencing pressure. Other prepositions like inside, into, or about do not form a standard idiomatic phrase in this context. Therefore, the best way to complete the sentence is fuel in the tank below would be under pressure. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Read the entire sentence to understand that it describes how fuel behaves when heated in a closed tank. Step 2: Recognize that the sentence is referring to the physical pressure that builds up in the tank as kerosene burns. Step 3: Recall common English expressions such as under pressure, under tension, and under strain that describe a state of being affected by a force. Step 4: Test each option mentally: inside pressure, into pressure, about pressure, and under pressure, and notice that only under pressure is idiomatic. Step 5: Conclude that the correct preposition is under, producing the phrase be under pressure. Verification / Alternative check: A simple way to verify the answer is to think of other familiar sentences. For example, water pipes are under pressure, or the system is under pressure when it heats up. These everyday sentences match the same grammatical structure. No natural example exists with be inside pressure or be about pressure in this physical sense, which strongly confirms that under is the only correct collocation. Why Other Options Are Wrong: inside: Inside pressure is not a standard phrase; we talk about pressure inside a container, but we do not say be inside pressure. into: Into expresses movement toward the inside of something; be into pressure would suggest motion rather than a state and does not fit here. about: About pressure would mean roughly or concerning pressure, which does not match the intended physical condition of the fuel. Common Pitfalls: Many learners focus only on literal meanings of prepositions and ignore collocations. They may feel that inside pressure sounds logical because the pressure is located inside the tank. However, English usually expresses this idea as be under pressure or say that there is pressure inside the tank. Another pitfall is to rush through passage based questions without reading the full sentence, which increases the chance of picking a non idiomatic option. Always check what phrase is typically used with the key noun in the blank. Final Answer: The fuel in the tank below would be under pressure.

Question 17

In the following passage about a kerosene pump stove, some of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and select the correct answer for the given blank from the four alternatives. When the kerosene burned, the fuel in the tank below…

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question again comes from the same passage that explains how a kerosene pump stove works. Here the focus is on the correct use of an adverb to describe how a small circular flame appears in the burner when pressure builds up. The question checks whether the learner can distinguish between adjective and adverb forms and select the one that fits grammatically and logically in the sentence. Given Data / Assumptions: The fuel in the tank is under pressure when kerosene burns. After this, a small circular flame appears in the burner. The sentence part being tested is and __________ a small circular flame would appear in the burner. Available options are slow, slowly, slower, and slowest. The sentence describes the manner in which the flame appears, not its degree of slowness compared to something else. Concept / Approach: English uses adjectives to describe nouns and adverbs to describe verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. In this sentence, appear is the main verb, and we need a word that tells us how the flame would appear. Therefore, we require an adverb of manner. Slowly is the standard adverb form of slow and fits naturally after the conjunction and in this structure. The comparative form slower and the superlative slowest indicate comparison or ranking, which is not needed here. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the verb in the clause, which is would appear. Step 2: Decide what type of word is missing. Since we want to describe the manner of appearance of the flame, we need an adverb. Step 3: Examine the options and classify them. Slow is an adjective, slowly is an adverb, slower is comparative degree, and slowest is superlative degree. Step 4: Substitute each option mentally into the sentence and check grammatical correctness and natural usage. Step 5: Conclude that only slowly yields a correct and natural sentence: and slowly a small circular flame would appear in the burner. Verification / Alternative check: You can cross check by converting the sentence structure slightly: A small circular flame would appear slowly in the burner. In this reordered version, it is even clearer that slowly modifies the verb would appear. If you try to use slow or slower in this structure, the result is ungrammatical or odd. This confirms that slowly is the correct choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: slow: This is an adjective typically used before a noun, as in a slow process. It does not fit directly before a because we already have the article and a noun phrase a small circular flame. slower: This comparative form is used when comparing two speeds, for example slower than before. The passage does not compare different speeds of the flame. slowest: This superlative form refers to one item among many, as in the slowest method, and has no contextual support in the passage. Common Pitfalls: Learners often confuse adjective and adverb forms when they see familiar base words like slow. They may also overlook the structure of the sentence and choose a degree form like slower simply because they recognise it. The key is to look at the verb would appear and ask what kind of word normally follows. In descriptive passages about processes and machines, adverbs such as slowly, gradually, or rapidly are frequently used to show how changes happen over time. Final Answer: The correct completion is and slowly a small circular flame would appear in the burner.

Question 18

In the following passage describing the working of a kerosene pump stove, some of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and select the correct answer for the given blank from the four alternatives. With the increase in pressure, t…

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Introduction / Context: This question again comes from the same technical style passage that explains how pressure and fuel flow affect the flame in a kerosene pump stove. The blank appears in the sentence With the increase in pressure, the burner flame would spread _________ a loud noise. The task is to supply the correct preposition that links the verb would spread to the accompanying description a loud noise. This tests accurate use of prepositions and natural English phrasing in a scientific or mechanical context. Given Data / Assumptions: The stove burner flame spreads when the pressure in the tank rises. At that moment, the flame is associated with a loud noise. The incomplete phrase is would spread _________ a loud noise. The options are within, with, at, and during. We need a phrase that describes the flame spreading accompanied by a loud sound. Concept / Approach: In English, the preposition with is commonly used to express accompaniment or association. When we say something happens with a loud noise, we mean that the action and the noise occur together. Therefore, would spread with a loud noise is the most natural and grammatically correct combination. The other prepositions within, at, and during convey different relationships that do not fit the intended sense of accompaniment between flame and sound. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Read the full sentence to understand that the flame behaviour and the noise are simultaneous events caused by rising pressure. Step 2: Identify that the blank links the verb would spread to the noun phrase a loud noise. Step 3: Recall typical English patterns for describing actions accompanied by sounds, for example shout with anger, move with grace, or burst with a loud bang. Step 4: Check each option by inserting it into the sentence and asking whether the resulting phrase is idiomatic: within a loud noise, with a loud noise, at a loud noise, during a loud noise. Step 5: Conclude that only would spread with a loud noise sounds natural and accurately expresses accompaniment. Verification / Alternative check: Another way to check is to rephrase the sentence: When pressure increased, the flame spread, and there was a loud noise. The relationship between spreading and noise is clearly that they happen together. In English, we usually compress this idea into a single phrase using with, which further confirms the correctness of would spread with a loud noise. Native like usage strongly favours with in such cause and effect process descriptions. Why Other Options Are Wrong: within: This suggests location inside something, such as within the room, and does not work with a loud noise because a noise is not a container for the flame. at: This preposition can describe time or reaction, as in at noon or shout at someone, but spread at a loud noise is awkward and unclear. during: During is used with time periods, such as during the night or during the meeting. A loud noise is an event, not a period, and during a loud noise sounds forced and unnatural here. Common Pitfalls: A common mistake is to focus too much on literal meanings of prepositions and forget typical patterns. Students may overthink and pick during because they believe the flame spreads while the noise is happening. However, experienced users of English express this idea with with to show accompaniment instead of during to show duration. To avoid such errors, always ask which preposition you have actually heard in similar sentences in reading or listening practice. Final Answer: The correct phrase is the burner flame would spread with a loud noise.

Question 19

In the following passage about the working of a pump stove that uses kerosene, some of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and select the correct answer for the given blank from the four alternatives. To lower the flame, the val…

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Introduction / Context: This blank is also taken from the same explanatory passage that describes how to control the flame on a kerosene pump stove. The sentence focuses on adjusting the pressure by opening a valve. The test here is to identify the correct adverb that describes the degree to which the valve must be opened. This is a vocabulary and collocation based question with a clear mechanical context, typical of general English comprehension for competitive examinations. Given Data / Assumptions: We are adjusting a valve on a pressurised kerosene stove. The purpose of opening the valve is to reduce pressure and lower the flame. The sentence fragment is the valve had to be _________ opened to reduce the pressure. Options are partly, some, none, and everything. The context suggests that the valve is opened a little, not fully, so that the pressure reduces gradually. Concept / Approach: The word partly is an adverb that means to some extent but not completely. When you open a valve partly, you open it a little to allow controlled release. The other words given are either determiners or pronouns and do not fit grammatically in this position. In natural English we say partly opened or partially opened. Therefore, partly is the only option that correctly modifies opened and matches the idea of controlled reduction of pressure. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Identify the verb phrase had to be opened and note that a word before opened will describe the manner or extent of this action. Step 2: Recognise that we need an adverb of degree, telling us how far the valve is opened. Step 3: Examine the options. Partly is an adverb, while some, none, and everything are usually used as pronouns or determiners rather than adverbs. Step 4: Insert each option into the sentence: had to be partly opened, had to be some opened, had to be none opened, had to be everything opened. Step 5: See that only had to be partly opened is grammatically correct and expresses the required partial opening of the valve. Verification / Alternative check: You can confirm the choice by thinking of similar mechanical actions. For example, the door was partly opened, the lid was partly lifted, or the tap was partly turned. In each case, partly clearly expresses incomplete action. This matches the situation here, where the user carefully adjusts the valve instead of opening it fully. This comparison reinforces that partly is the correct and idiomatic word for this context. Why Other Options Are Wrong: some: Some is normally used before a noun, as in some water or some people. It does not fit directly before the past participle opened and cannot function here as an adverb. none: None means not any and is used as a pronoun or determiner, such as none of them. The phrase none opened is ungrammatical in this construction. everything: Everything is an indefinite pronoun referring to all things. The phrase everything opened makes no sense and cannot describe the degree to which a valve is opened. Common Pitfalls: Some learners may be tempted to over analyse the meaning of some or none and think that they convey partial or zero opening. However, in English grammar, these words cannot be used before opened in this passive construction. Remember to check both meaning and part of speech. Adjacent to a past participle, you usually need an adverb if you want to describe the extent of the action. Partly opened is a standard collocation; some opened or none opened are not used in standard English. Final Answer: The correct wording is the valve had to be partly opened to reduce the pressure.

Question 20

In the following passage about using a kerosene pump stove, some of the words have been left out. Read the passage carefully and select the correct answer for the given blank from the four alternatives. The description ends with the line was achieve…

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Introduction / Context: The last missing word in this kerosene pump stove passage is a conjunction that introduces a condition. The sentence reads in full as was achieved. _________ you wanted the flame to be bigger, you had to hit the piston again. The examinee must understand how the sentence links the condition wanting a bigger flame with the action of hitting the piston again. This is a classic test of basic conjunction use within a process description. Given Data / Assumptions: The stove user has already adjusted the valve and achieved a desired flame size. Sometimes the user may want a bigger flame again. The incomplete sentence is was achieved. _________ you wanted the flame to be bigger, you had to hit the piston again. Options are If, Nor, So, and Thus. The sense required is conditional: in the case that you wanted the flame to be bigger, this is what you had to do. Concept / Approach: In English, the conjunction if is used to introduce a condition, especially in sentences of the type If you want X, you must do Y. The other words given here have different functions: nor is used with negatives, so usually introduces a result, and thus often signals a conclusion. Only if can introduce the conditional clause that fits the logic of the sentence. Therefore the correct completion is If you wanted the flame to be bigger, you had to hit the piston again. Step-by-Step Solution: Step 1: Recognise the structure of the sentence. The first part states that the desired flame size was achieved. The second part tells us what to do in a special situation. Step 2: Identify that the second part describes a condition: the special situation is that the user wants the flame to be bigger again. Step 3: Recall that conditional clauses in English typically begin with if, when, unless, or similar conjunctions. Step 4: Insert each option in the blank and check the meaning: If you wanted the flame to be bigger, Nor you wanted the flame to be bigger, So you wanted the flame to be bigger, Thus you wanted the flame to be bigger. Step 5: Note that only the first version with If is logical and grammatical, because it clearly introduces a condition that triggers the action of hitting the piston. Verification / Alternative check: A quick way to verify the answer is to rephrase the sentence as a standard conditional: If you wanted the flame to be bigger, you had to hit the piston again. This matches many other sentences you already know, such as If you wanted more light, you had to turn the knob, or If you wanted better pressure, you had to pump more. Nor, so, and thus cannot be used in this pattern, which confirms that if is the correct choice. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Nor: Nor is used in negative pairings, such as neither the stove nor the lamp worked. It cannot begin a positive conditional clause about wanting a bigger flame. So: So normally introduces a result or consequence, as in It was dark, so he lit the stove. Here we are not stating a result but introducing a hypothetical condition. Thus: Thus is a formal synonym for therefore and is used to state conclusions. The phrase Thus you wanted the flame to be bigger is awkward and does not link logically with had to hit the piston again. Common Pitfalls: Sometimes students see words like so and thus and think they always sound smarter or more advanced. However, correct grammar depends on using the word that matches the relationship between clauses. In conditional situations, if is simple but powerful and is almost always the right choice. Mixing up connectors that show condition, result, and contrast is a common error in competitive exam English and should be carefully avoided by paying attention to the logical relationship between ideas. Final Answer: The completed sentence is was achieved. If you wanted the flame to be bigger, you had to hit the piston again.

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