Based on the passage about Dr Albert Schweitzer at the Chicago railroad station, choose the option that best completes the sentence: “Dr Albert preferred to let his actions _____.”

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: speak louder than his words

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question comes from a passage describing how Dr Albert Schweitzer arrived at a station where many officials and reporters were waiting to honour him. Instead of focusing on the attention, he quietly went to help an elderly woman with her luggage. The narrator then comments that this behaviour was like watching a sermon in action. The question asks what Dr Albert preferred regarding his actions and words.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The passage describes Dr Albert Schweitzer as a Nobel Peace Prize winner and a famous missionary doctor.
  • He leaves the reception group briefly to help an elderly woman with her suitcases.
  • Someone remarks that this was like seeing a “sermon walking”.
  • The question focuses on the idea that his actions mattered more than his words.


Concept / Approach:
There is a well known saying in English: “Actions speak louder than words.” It means that what a person actually does shows their character more clearly than what they simply say. The passage gives an example of this principle. Dr Albert does not give any speech at that moment to show kindness; instead, he quietly acts in a kind way. Therefore, the correct option must capture the idea that he allowed his deeds to express his values instead of depending on talk or publicity.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Think about the main message of the story. The emphasis is on humble service and practical kindness. Step 2: Connect this to the common proverb about actions speaking louder than words. Step 3: Examine Option A: “speak louder than his words”. This is directly based on that proverb and fits perfectly with his behaviour in the passage. Step 4: Examine Option B: “be admired”. While people did admire him, that is not the main idea; the focus is on the nature of his behaviour, not on seeking admiration. Step 5: Examine Options C and D, which talk about being advertised or written about; these suggest seeking publicity, which is opposite to his modest and service oriented behaviour.


Verification / Alternative check:
The remark by a member of the reception committee, calling him a “sermon walking”, reinforces that his life and actions served as a living lesson. A sermon normally uses words to teach moral values, but here his simple deed became the lesson. That supports the idea that his actions spoke louder than any formal speech. None of the other options summarise this central message as clearly as Option A does.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option B: “be admired” focuses on others' reaction, not on his preference for action over talk. Option C: “be advertised” suggests self promotion, which is contrary to his humble nature. Option D: “be written about” refers to reports or biographies, which may happen later but are not what he prefers in that moment.


Common Pitfalls:
Some students may be tempted to choose an option that mentions admiration or publicity because Dr Albert was a Nobel Prize winner and a famous personality. However, the passage specifically highlights his humility and focus on service. When answering comprehension questions, always link the option to the main theme and moral of the story rather than to external knowledge or assumptions about famous people.


Final Answer:
Dr Albert Schweitzer preferred to demonstrate his values through practical deeds rather than words. Thus, the correct completion is that he preferred to let his actions speak louder than his words.

More Questions from English

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion