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What are Non-finites? Ans: Non-finites are those verbs which have no subject and are not changed according to the person or number of the subject or tenses. Non- Finites are of four kinds. Participles Gerunds Verbal Nouns Infinitives 1. Participles are of three types a) Present Participles e.g Walking stick is useful to an old man. b) Past Participles e.g. Look at the burnt wood. c) Perfect Participles e.g. Having gone there I found him missing. 1.Present Participles Uses: i) Attributively ( as a subject) e.g Walking stick is useful for an old man. A rolling stone gathers no moss. The burning train was running fast. ii) Predicatively ( e.g. as an object) The officer kept me waiting for an hour. (iii) It can be used as degrees of comparison. Ram is more pleasing than his brother. iv) Absolutely with a noun or pronoun going before it. The sky being clear, I went to play. The river being shallow, we went to swim. God willing, we shall meet once again. v) It may be modified by an adverb Loudly knocking at the door, he demanded admission. ( modified by adverb 'loudly') vi) Like a verb it may govern a noun or pronoun. Hearing the noise, the thief ran away. vii) As an object complement e.g. I saw Ram begging. Errors in the use of participles The participle being a verb-adjective, it must be attached to a noun or a pronoun. e.g Sleeping on the bed the snake bit the baby. ( The sentence is wrong) Ans: Sleeping on the bed/ While sleeping on the bed, the baby was bitten by a snake. e.g. Standing at the door, a cobra bit him. ( Wrong) Ans: Standing at the gate/While he was standing at the gate, a cobra bit him. 2. Use of Past Participle Note: Past participle represents a complete action. It usually ends ' -ed', '-d', '-t', '-en', or '-n' 1.To form perfect Tense. I have done the work. ( present Perfect) 2. To form the verb in passive voice The moon was seen by me. 3. As an adjective Let the departed soul rest in peace. 4. To transform a complex sentence into a simple sentence. Blinded by a dust storm , they lost their way. 5. After the objects of the verbs- see, here, feel, find, get , keep , make, like, went, wish etc. e.g. We saw a few trees laden with trees. 3. Perfect Participle Note: Perfect participle represents an action as complete at some past time. e.g. Having rested, we continued our journey. e.g. Having finished my breakfast, I went to the school. 2. Gerunds A gerund is that form of a verb which ends in -ing and has the force of a Noun and a Verb. e.g. Swimming is a good exercise. e.g. Reading is my favourite past time. Uses: 1. Subject of a Verb e.g. Smoking is injurious to health. 2. Object of a verb e.g. Stop singing now. 3. Complement of a verb. (i,e. like an object of verb) e.g. Seeing is believing. e.g. What I dislike most is smoking. 4. Object of a preposition e.g. I am fond of playing cards. 5. Gerunds are preceded ( going before) by possessive nouns. e.g. Tour will be fixed after Renu's passing the exams. e.g. I ask the favour of your granting my prayer. 6. Gerunds are used in compound-nouns. e.g. The fish fell from the frying pen. e.g. He bought a new walking stick. 7. Gerunds are used absolutely. e.g. Playing cards being his aversion, we did not play bridge. 3. Verbal Nouns: A gerund preceded by 'the' and followed by 'of' is called a Verbal Noun. All verbal Nouns are not gerund, but all gerunds are verbal Nouns. e.g. He is engaged in the reading of a novel. 4. Infinitives Note: A verb that has a subject but is not limited by person and number of the subject is called Infinitive. e.g Teach me how to swim. e.g. I love to read Science Fiction. Uses: 1. Subject of a verb e.g. To err is human. 2. Object of a verb. e.g. She loves to sing. 3. Complement of a verb e.g. To see is to believe. 4. Object of a preposition e.g. The patient is about to die. Kindly CLICK HERE to solve questions on Non-finites.

Lesson Architecture Theme Story-At-A-Glance NCERT Solution Extra Questions Theme: The story is set in the remote village of Hosahalli in Karnataka. Ranga is the main character around whom the story revolves. The story highlights about the influence of English as a language and way of life in Indian Society. Story-At-A-Glance The narrator of the story is an inhabitant of the village who takes enormous pride in everything about his native place. He feels offended that the name of his village does not find mention in any of the geography books written by Englishmen. It is an important place in the state of Mysore. The same opinion is shared by the doctor of the village who has seen many other places. The village boasts of a special type of mango and a creeper in the pond that bears beautiful flowers. The narrator, Shyama, narrates a story that happened ten years ago. Back then people in villages did not have knowledge of English. Nor did they inject English words into their conversation. The village accountant was the first to gather enough courage to send his son, Ranga to Bangalore for studies. When Ranga came home after six months, it was an event to celebrate. People rushed to see him, and so did the narrator. An old lady even ran her hand over his chest to find out whether he was still wearing the sacred thread. She smiled with satisfaction that he had not ‘lost his caste.’ The crowd that had gathered to have a glimpse of the boy, slowly dispersed on realizing that he still had the same hands, legs, eyes and the nose. Ranga then noticed the narrator and bowed down respectfully. The narrator blessed him that he might get married soon. Ranga visited the narrator in the afternoon. On being asked about the when Ranga would get married, he replied that he would wait and find the right match. He believed in marrying when one was physically and mentally mature. According to Ratna, a man should marry a girl he admires and it would be impossible to admire an immature girl. The narrator was disappointed with Ranga’s views, but was determined to find a match for him. Ratna was Rama Rao’s eleven-year-old niece. She was from a big town and had come to stay with her uncle. She had a sweet voice and knew to play the veena and harmonium. The narrator decided that Ratna would be the perfect bride for Ranga. The narrator was a frequent visitor to Rama Rao’s place and shared an easy comfortable relation with the girl. The narrator told Rama Rao’s wife that he would send some butter milk for them and Ratna could go to his house to fetch it. Ratna went wearing a beautiful saree and the narrator requested her to sing a song. While she was singing Ranga reached the door and stopped at the threshold, completely enchanted by the melodious voice. The narrator noticed that Ranga repeatedly glanced at her. When Ranga realized this , he became self-conscious and immediately expressed a desire to leave, but did not even move. When Ratna ran into a room, Ranga asked the narrator who the girl was. The narrator declined to answer as he said that Ratna was married and Ranga was not interested to marry . Ranga was visibly disappointed when he came to know that Ranga was already married and left the place. The narrator went to Shastri and apprised him of a plan and tutored him what to say in front of Ranga. Later in the evening the narrator met Ranga who was still lost in thought. He asked him to accompany him to see Shastri in order to find out how auspicious the stars were for him. Shastri deduced that Ranga’s problem had something to do with a girl. The narrator asked Shastri if any positive result might come if they negotiated with Rama Rao for his niece, Ranta. Shastri pretended to think for a while and replied in the affirmative. Ranga’s face brightened up for a moment only to be dismayed by the narrator’s words that she was married. On their way , they passed by Rama Rao’s house and saw Ratna standing at the door. The narrator went in alone , but came out a minute later and announced that he was mistaken and the girl was not married. Ranga then confessed his feelings about Ratna. And they got married. One day Ranga came to invite the narrator for dinner on the occasion of his son Shyama’s third birthday. The narrator laughter at their choice of name for their lovely son. But Ranga and Ratna followed the English tradition of naming the child after someone they loved. Ranga’s son rushed to the narrator and put his arms around his legs. The narrator kissed him and slipped a ring on his tiny little finger. Recapitulation: The story is set in the remote village of Hosahalli in Karnataka. Ranga is the main character in the story. The narrator is very proud of his village and blames English geographers for excluding the name from map. The village accountant was the first to send his son Ranga to Bangalore to study. His homecoming after six months was an event in the village. Large number of people gathered to have a glimpse of the boy. Ranga’s views on marriage were unconventional . He would marry a girl who was mature and who he could admire. Ratna was a beautiful eleven year old niece of Rama Rao. She had lost her parents and had come to stay with her uncle. The narrator called Ratna to his house on some pretext and asked her to sing and sent for Ranga at the same time. Ranga was enthralled by her song and started developing interest for her. Once the narrator tutored Shastri on how to handle the situation and told everything to him regarding Ranga. Shastri revealed that Ranga was being disturbed by the thoughts of a girl and on hearing this Ranga’s face brightened up. On their way, the narrator entered Rama Rao’s hose and came out with a clarification that Ratna was not married. Ranga and Ratna were blissfully married. After several years, Ranga came to invite the narrator to their son’s third birthday. They named their son, Shayma, after the narrator who they admired and loved. The narrator kissed the child and slipped a ring onto his tiny finger. Reading With Insight 1. Comment on the influence of English-the language and the way of life-on Indian life as reflected in the story. What is the narrator’s attitude to English? Ans: English has a great influence in Indian society. In this story we get a reflection of an Indian village where no one spoke English or used English words in their conversation. The village accountant was the first person to sent his son Ranga to Bangalore to study English. That is why his homecoming was such a great event in the village. A crowd gathered to see what he looked like and tried to find out whether he still wore the sacred thread. English was considered a ‘priceless commodity’ and thus they were in awe of a person who studied it. They narrator’s attitude was quite positive. He showed that the language did not have any adverse influence on Ranga, who still wore the sacred thread and bent low for the gesture of ‘namaskara’. 2.Astrologers’s perceptions are based more on hearsay and conjecture than what they learn from the study of the stars. Comment with reference to the story. Ans: In most Indian villages, astrology is practiced without much study and knowledge. It is due to the fact that our society is largely governed by superstition and blind faith on astrology. In reference to the story, we have come across an astrologer by the name of Shastri. We do not have any clue about his level of astrological knowledge as he is in connivance with the narrator to fix up Ranga’s marriage. His movement of lips and fingers in making calculation of stars and planets was easily believed by Ranga who had such unconventional views. In spite of being told everything to Shastri regarding Ranga’s interest for Ratna, Shastri made it seem like it was the prediction of Ranga’s planetary positions. Q3. Indian society has moved a long way from the way the marriage was arranged in the story. Discuss. Ans: In spite of the fact that society has become much advanced and progressive, the prevalence of arranged marriages in Indian society cannot be ruled out. Arranged marriages are still prevalent mostly in villages and some percentage in urban areas as well. But like in the story, girls are no longer married off at a tender age of eleven like Ratna in the story. Nowadays , education and career get topmost priority over marriages. With reference to the story nowadays matrimonial websites are available to work like a mediator like the narrator in the story. There is independence in choosing a life partner according to their own judgment. Before the marriage Ratna was not consulted about her opinion about marriage. This scenario is in total contrast to the situation of today when the opinion of girls get priority before the marriage. Q4. What kind of a person do you think the narrator is? The narrator is a friendly, empathetic and cheerful person. He is very proud of his village though his description of the village is exaggerated. His involvement in the matter of the village is evident when he arranges Ranga’s marriage. He resorts to manipulation and influences Shastri to do as he had planned in order to get Ranga agree to the marriage. Ranga and Ratna are so much influenced by his personality that that name their son after him. He is very caring and concerned about the well-being of Ranga and Ratna. Extra Short Questions 1. How did the village people react to Ranga’s homecoming? Ans: Ranga was the son of the village accountant who was the first person from that village to be sent to Bangalore to study. In Hoshahalli English was a precious commodity. Since Ranga was exposed to English culture, the whole village came to see the changes that may have come over him. Once they realized that Ranga still had the same hands and legs, eyes and nose, they slowly dispersed from there. 2. Why did the author go to Ranga’s house? Why was he impressed? Ans The author joined the crowd on Ranga’s homecoming. Like other people in the village, he went to pay visit to Ranga’s house. He was impressed by the way Ranga touched his feet to do ‘namaskara’ and asked for his blessings. Q3. Why did the narrator take Ranga to see Shastri? Ans: The narrator had already instructed Shastri on how to influence Ranga to consent to the alliance between Ranga and Ratna. He took Ranga on the pretext of asking Shastri whether Ranga was worried about anything. Q4. Who was Ratna? What made the author think she was the perfect choice? Ans: Ratna was Rama Rao’s beautiful niece who had come to stay with him after her parents’ demise. She knew how to sing and could also play veena and harmonium. As she belonged to a good family background with certain qualities of head and heart, the narrator thought that she was the perfect match for Ranga. Q5. How did the narrator succeed in his mission of Ranga’s marriage? Ans: Though Ranga’s views on marriage were quite unconventional , yet Shyama, the narrator, was determined to work towards an alliance of Ranga with RamaRao’s beautiful eleven year old niece Ratna. Thus he cleverly arranged a meeting between Ranga and Ratna at his house. He connived with the village Shastri to influence Ranga with his prediction of Ranga’s interest for a girl. In the end, Ranga confessed his feelings for Ratna and they were married. For Additional Questions for Practice, Visit Question Bank in Library by CLICKING HERE

Topics Cloze Test Synonyms Antonyms Idioms Q.1 Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. Obsolete Ans 1. Recent 2. Remote 3. Outdated 4. Rigid Q2. Q.2 Select the correctly spelt word. Ans 1. Embarasment 2. Encouragement 3. Conscinteous 4. Comotion Q.3 Select the most appropriate meaning of the given Idiom. The bee’s knees Ans 1. Observant 2. Foolish 3. Problematic 4. Extraordinary Q.4 Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank. A reward is a ______ which motivates a person to achieve excellence in his field. Ans 1. monument 2. collection 3. recognition 4. memorial Q.5 Select the word which means the same as the given group of words. A sudden rush of a large number of frightened people or animals. Ans 1. Scapegoat 2. Lunacy 3. Stampede 4. Recluse Q.6 Select the word which means the same as the given group of words. One who loads and unloads ships. Ans 1. Spinster 2. Rustic 3. Stevedore 4. Captain Comprehension: In the following passage some words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each blank. Discipline is doing any work with rules and regulations. It is (1)______ misunderstood as a restriction to freedom but it makes our life organized. Discipline is a (2)______ for students and people in different professions. A disciplined person always (3)______ in each and every field of life. Disciplined people (4)______ a disciplined society and a powerful nation. Discipline should not be (5)______ upon the people, rather it should come from within. Sub Question No : 7 Q.7 Select the most appropriate option for blank number (1) Ans 1. happily 2. slowly 3. proudly 4. usually Q.8 Select the most appropriate option for blank number (2) Ans 1. virtue 2. disadvantage 3. curse 4. dream Comprehension: In the following passage some words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each blank. Discipline is doing any work with rules and regulations. It is (1)______ misunderstood as a restriction to freedom but it makes our life organized. Discipline is a (2)______ for students and people in different professions. A disciplined person always (3)______ in each and every field of life. Disciplined people (4)______ a disciplined society and a powerful nation. Discipline should not be (5)______ upon the people, rather it should come from within. Sub Question No : 9 Q.9 Select the most appropriate option for blank number (3) Ans 1. successful 2. succeed 3. succeeds 4. success Q.10 Select the most appropriate option for blank number (4) Ans 1. made 2. make 3. had made 4. makes Q.11 Select the most appropriate option for blank number (5) Ans 1. adorned 2. imposed 3. reposed 4. curbed Q.12 Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the given word. Derogatory Ans 1. Complimentary 2. Insulting 3. Depreciating 4. Intricate Q.13 Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. Acknowledgement Ans 1. Elimination 2. Compensation 3. Confusion 4. Confirmation Q.14 Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. No effort has been made by the Indian cricket team to cash off on its vibrant image in the World Cup. Ans 1. to cash in on 2. to cash up on 3. for cash through in 4. for cashing off on Q.15 Given below are four jumbled sentences. Out of the given options pick the one that gives their correct order. A. This is because of its aroma, flavour and variety in the market. B. Thus, it leads to poor health and mental disorders among children. C. Children as well as teenagers are tempted towards junk food. D. It has no or negligible nutritional value and high content of sugar and salt. Ans 1. BCDA 2. ACDB 3. CDAB 4. CADB Q.16 Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. Prodigal Ans 1. Trivial 2. Humble 3. Arrogant 4. Extravagant Q.17 In the sentence identify the segment which contains the grammatical error. Those who follow a healthy routine is likely enjoying good health. Ans 1. is likely enjoying 2. a healthy routine 3. Those who follow 4. good health Q.18 Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank. The government should take stringent steps against terrorists and foil their ______ designs. Ans 1. benevolent 2. conducive 3. malicious 4. exemplary Q.19 Given below are four jumbled sentences. Out of the given options pick the one that gives their correct order. A. They can then purchase them on subsidized rates with additional loan facilities. B. It will import technologically advanced medical instruments and provide them to entrepreneurs. C. The Indian Government has announced certain facilities in the budget session. D. This will help in strengthening the economic condition of entrepreneurs. Ans 1. DCAB 2. CADB 3. BDCA 4. CBAD Q.20 Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, select No improvement. The mathematical calculation of this problem is easy than a previous one. Ans 1. easier than the 2. easiest than the 3. easy than the 4. No Improvement Q.21 Select the correct passive form of the given sentence. His elder sister taught him English. Ans 1. His elder sister is taught English by him. 2. He has been taught English by his elder sister. 3. He was taught English by his elder sister. 4. He is being taught English by his elder sister. Q.22 Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. To throw a fit Ans 1. Express extreme anger 2. Faint and fall down 3. Caution someone about fitness 4. Become unconscious Q.23 In the sentence identify the segment which contains the grammatical error. When I reached the cinema hall, the movie had already began. Ans 1. the movie had 2. When I reached 3. the cinema hall 4. already began Q.24 Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence. The teacher said to me, “You have not submitted the assignment.” Ans 1. The teacher said me that I had not submitted the assignment. 2. The teacher told me that I had not submitted the assignment. 3. The teacher said to me that I have not submitted the assignment. 4. The teacher told to me that I have not submitted that assignment. Q.25 Select the correctly spelt word. Ans 1. Employeed 2. Rehersal 3. Veterinary 4. Seperable Answer Key Q1. 1 Q2. 2 Q3. 4 Q4. 3 Q5. 3 Q6. 3 Q7. 4 Q8. 1 Q9. 3 Q10. 2 Q11. 2 Q12. 1 Q13. 4 Q14. 1 Q15. 4 Q16. 4 Q17. 1 Q18. 3 Q19. 4 Q20. 1 Q21. 3 Q22. 1 Q23. 4 Q24. 2 Q25. 3

Voice- Active and Passive What is Voice? Voice is the property of a verb which show whether the subject is acting or is being acted upon. Voice is of two types- Active Voice & Passive voice Active Voice When the subject or doer itself does the work, the verb I the sentence is in the ‘Active Voice.’ e.g. I am doing the work. Passive Voice: When the subject or doer does not do the work itself but receives the result of the action or something has been to it, the verb in the sentence is in the ‘Passive Voice’. e.g. The work is being done by me. Rules of Changing the Voice: 1. Object of the active voice takes the position of the subject in passive. e.g I do the work ( Active Voice) Object: the work ( Object in Active Voice) Passive Voice: The work is done by me (Now ‘The work’ is subject in passive voice) 2. In Passive voice am, is, are, was, were etc is followed by the third form of the verb ( V3) 3. ‘By’ is placed after the V3. Note: 1. We cannot make passive voice of the following four tenses. a) Present Perfect Continuous Tense b) Past Perfect Continuous Tense c) Future Continuous Tense d) Future Perfect Continuous Tense. 2. Intransitive Verb(i.e. verb without object) cannot be changed into passive Voice. e.g. She sang very well. (This sentence cannot be made passive voice) 3. Reflexive Pronoun cannot be put into passive. e.g. They enjoyed themselves. (Cannot be converted into passive voice) 4. Revise the Tenses and Learn the passive structure of different tenses from the following table. 1. How to Convert an interrogative Sentence into Passive Voice? a) If an interrogative sentence begins with ‘who’ in active voice, it is replaced by ‘whom’ in passive voice. e.g. Who teaches you English? ( Active) By whom are you taught English? ( Passive) b) If an interrogative sentence begins with ‘wh’ words, these are retained in passive voice. e.g. a) How did you do this work? ( active) How was this work done by you? ( Passive) b) Why did you do it? ( Active) Why was it done by you? ( Passive) c) If the active voice begins with ‘do/does/did’, they are replaced by am/is/are/was/were in passive voice according to singular or plural subject. i) Do you like Maths? Is Maths liked by you? ii) Do they watch films? Are films watched by them? iii) Does he watch film? Is film watched by him? iv) Did he watch the movie? Was the movie watched by him? d) We use ‘let’ to convert the active into passive voice of imperative sentences. e.g. Do the work now. Let the work be done now. Sing a song now. Let a song be sung now. e) ‘Please’ in active voice is replaced by ‘you are requested’ in passive voice. e.g. Please sing a song. You are requested to sing a song. f) If the active voice starts with ‘it is time’, the following pattern is used in passive voice. e.g. It is time to read a book. It is time for a book to be read. g) Remember the following pattern of conversion from the following table h) Refer to the following table for some more examples from imperative sentences. Use of the Passive Voice 1. To Describe a process Clothes are first kept inside the washing machine. Detergent is then kept inside the box. 2. For Reporting Incident in Newspapers. The boy was immediately taken to the hospital. A school student was run over by a lorry. The driver of the lorry was arrested. 3. For making a request, invitation or announcement You are requested to use the dustbin. You are cordially invited to preside over the meeting. The Rajdhani Express will be delayed by an hour. 4. For Writing Notice A cricket coaching camp will be held from 16th May. The students are hereby informed that... An inter-house cricket match will be conducted 5. For giving warning Smoking is prohibited on the premises. Trespassers will be prohibited. 6. For Describing social and Historical Significance M.K. Gandhi was assassinated. A great fight was fought in Kargil. For Exercise Questions, Click Here

Dear Aspirants of SSC/UPSC/ English Olympiad/ Railway/Bank Exams, Kindly go through this Question Paper. Attempt all the questions. Answers will be uploaded along with explanations very Shortly. Good Luck Monotosh Dey Staff Selection Commission, New Delhi 1. Fill up the blanks with the most appropriate word We must _______ help to the homeless and physically disabled people. a) render b) donate c) exert d) contribute Q.2 Given below are four jumbled sentences. Select the option that gives their correct order. A. However, the rate of population increase is another important factor to consider. B. This change can be expressed in two ways. C. Growth of population refers to the change in the number of inhabitants of a country. D. First, in terms of absolute numbers and second, in terms of percentage change. 1. BADC 2. BDCA 3. CBDA 4. CADB Q3. Select the passive form of the given sentence. The manager keeps the work pending. Ans 1. The work has been kept pending by the manager. 2The work was kept pending by the manager. 3. The work is kept pending by the manager. 4. The work are being kept pending by the manager Q.4 In the sentence identify the segment which contains the grammatical error. One of the boys from our school have been selected for National Badminton Championship. Ans 1. have been selected 2. from our school 3. for National Badminton Championship 4. One of the boys Q.5 Select the correct synonym of the given word. Obligatory 2. Reckless 3. Useless 4. Aggressive Q.6 Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If no substitution is required, select No improvement. The Director will agree with the proposal if we do not exceed the budget. Ans 1. agreed by the proposal 2. agree on a proposal 3. No Improvement 4. agree to the proposal Q7-11 Comprehension: In the following passage some words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each blank. Communication plays a (1)______ role in the overall development of man. It can be learnt by our (2)______ efforts. Today, success in our professional life depends on our (3)______ to read, write and speak well which results in effective communication. Barriers (4)______ communication hinder the communication process. It is very important to (5)______ these barriers so that the transmission of the message can be smooth. SubQuestion No : 7 Q.7 Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 1 Ans 1. better 2. vital 3. total 4. lifeless Sub Question No : 8 Q.8 Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 2 Ans 1. contradictory 2. unclear 3. important 4. conscious Sub Question No : 9 Q9. Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 3 1. Variety 2. agility 3. ability 4. facility Sub Question No : 10 Q.10 Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 4 Ans 1. to 2. against 3. by 4. from Sub Question No : 11 Q.11 Select the most appropriate option for blank No. 5 Ans 1. strengthen 2. create 3. overcome 4. succeed Q.12 Select the correct synonym of the given word. Scintillating Ans 1. Stinging 2. Glittering 3. Flattering 4. Boring Q.13 Select the word, which means the same as the given group of words. Something that cannot be heard Ans 1. infallible 2. audible 3. inaudible 4. irrevocable Q.14 Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If no substitution is required, select No improvement. The captain as well the players were responsible for winning the trophy. Ans 1. The captain also the players were 2. The captain as well as the players was 3. As The captain with the players were 4. No Improvement Q.15 Select the appropriate meaning of the given idiom. To take French leave Ans 1. Welcome the host 2. Acknowledge the host 3. Leave with written permission 4. Leave without any intimation Q.16 Given below are four jumbled sentences. Select the option that gives their correct order A. However, they ignore the truth that progress and success are proportional to the labor they put in. B. The general human tendency is to find faults in the policies framed by the government. C. They blame the government for their slow progress, expecting miracles and magical transformation in their life. D. So people openly criticize and condemn the policy makers. Ans 1. CDAB 2. DBAC 3. BDCA 4. ABCD Q.17 Select the word, which means the same as the groups of words given. A song sung at a burial Ans 1. Sonnet 2. Dirge 3. Hymn 4. Ballad Q.18 Select the appropriate meaning of the given idiom. A hard nut to crack Ans 1. Easily disappointed 2. A difficult problem 3. Not restrained 4. Easily encouraged Q.19 Fill in the blank with the most appropriate word. Handle this glass table with care because it is ______. Ans 1. frugal 3. fragile 4. volatile Q.20 Select the correctly spelt word. Ans 1. Bouquette 2. Humilliation 3. Sarcasm 4. Retalaite Q.21 Select the indirect narration of the given sentence. He said to the hotel receptionist, “Can you tell me the tariff of rooms? Ans 1. He asked the hotel receptionist that if he can tell him the tariff of rooms. 2. He asked the hotel receptionist to tell him the tariff of rooms. 3. He enquired the hotel receptionist if he can tell him the tariff of rooms. 4. He asked the hotel receptionist if he could tell him the tariff of rooms. Q.22 In the sentence identify the segment which contains the grammatical error. I can swim very fast when I was only five. Ans 1. I can swim 2. when I was 3. very fast 4. only five Q.23 Select the correctly spelt word. Ans 1. exhibit 2. exteract 3. exhoust 4. exhail Q.24 Select the correct antonym of the given word. Exodus Ans 1. Departure 2. Refund 3. Exit 4. Arrival Q.25 Select the correct antonym of the given word. Quiescent Ans 1. Peaceful 2. Dejected 3. Indifferent 4. Active Answer Key Q1. 1 Q2. 3 Q3. 3 Q4. 1 Q5. 1 Q6. 4 Q7. 2 Q8. 4 Q9. 3 Q10. 1 Q11. 3 Q12. 2 Q13. 3 Q14. 2 Q15. 4 Q16 3 Q17. 2 Q18. 2 Q19. 3 Q20. 3 Q21. 4 Q22. 1 Q23. 1 Q24. 4 Q25. 4

Word Substitution, Cloze Test, Error Detection, Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms, Phrasal Verbs Q.1 Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, select No improvement. My shoes were worn out so I had to buy a new one. Ans 1. a new ones 2. No improvement 3. the new one's 4. new ones Q.2 Select the option that expresses the given sentence in reported speech. She said to me," What time is your flight tomorrow?" Ans 1. She asked me what time is my flight the next day. 2. She asked me that what time was my flight tomorrow. 3. She asked me what time my flight was the following day. 4. She asked me what time my flight will be the next day. Q.3 Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word. Ans 1. Pierce 2. Piteous 3. Pursue 4. Patrner Q4. Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word. Ans 1. Nuisance 2. Negligible 3. Negociate 4. Necessary Q.5 Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. Blow one's own trumpet Ans 1. Condemn others 2. Praise oneself 3. Follow others 4. Be self-reliant Q.6 In the sentence identify the segment which contains the grammatical error. Deepa walked down the road slowly without looking anybody. Ans 1. down the road 2. Deepa walked 3. looking anybody 4. slowly without Comprehension: In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Select the most appropriate option to fill each blank. Watermelon is thought to have originated in Africa's Kalahari Desert. Believe it (1)______ not, the first recorded watermelon harvest (2)______ nearly 5000 years ago in Egypt and is (3)______ in Egyptian hieroglyphics on the walls of their (4)______ buildings. This fruit was often placed (5)______ the burial tombs of kings to provide nourishment in the afterlife. Q.7 Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 1. Ans 1. and 2. but 3. if 4. or Q.8 Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 2. Ans 1. contained 2. produced 3. occurred 4. discovered Watermelon is thought to have originated in Africa's Kalahari Desert. Believe it (1)______ not, the first recorded watermelon harvest (2)______ nearly 5000 years ago in Egypt and is (3)______ in Egyptian hieroglyphics on the walls of their (4)______ buildings. This fruit was often placed (5)______ the burial tombs of kings to provide nourishment in the afterlife. Q.9 Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 3. Ans 1. directed 2. distributed 3. depicted 4. diverted Q.10 Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 4. Ans 1. obsolete 2. ancient 3. elderly 4. outdated Watermelon is thought to have originated in Africa's Kalahari Desert. Believe it (1)______ not, the first recorded watermelon harvest (2)______ nearly 5000 years ago in Egypt and is (3)______ in Egyptian hieroglyphics on the walls of their (4)______ buildings. This fruit was often placed (5)______ the burial tombs of kings to provide nourishment in the afterlife. Q.11 Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank 5. Ans 1. along 2. with 3. in 4. after Q.12 Select the option that expresses the given sentence in passive voice. Martin drew a picture of the snow-capped mountains. Ans 1. A picture of the snow-capped mountains is being drawn by Martin. 2. A picture of the snow-capped mountains is drawn by Martin. 3. A picture of the snow-capped mountains was drawn by Martin. 4. A picture of the snow-capped mountains has been drawn by Martin. Q.13 Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, select No improvement. He sing always when he is having a shower. Ans 1. He always sing 2. Always he is singing 3. He always sings 4. No improvement Q.14 Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. IMPLORE Ans 1. Honour 2. Plead 3. Command 4. Refuse Q.15 Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word. VIGILANT Ans 1. Cautious 2. Alert 3. Rash 4. Wary Q.16 Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word. FLEXIBLE Ans 1. Supple 2. Stiff 3. Stale 4. Soft Q.17 In the sentence identify the segment which contains the grammatical error. Everything that I like to eat are fattening. Ans 1. Everything that 2. are fattening 3. I like 4. to eat Q.18 Select the most appropriate one word substitution for the given group of words. A person very reserved in speech Ans 1. Confident 2. Reticent 3. Adamant 4. Eloquent Q.19 Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom. Spill the beans Ans 1. Waste money 2. Work hard 3. Perform magic 4. Give away a secret Q.20 Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. The students went to their ______ classes after the morning assembly. Ans 1. respective 2. respectable 3. respectful 4. respected Q.21 Select the most appropriate one word substitution for the given group of words. A place where clothes are kept Ans 1. Coffin 2. Hangar 3. Shaft 4. Wardrobe Q.22 Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word. GLORIOUS Ans 1. gentle 2. unusual 3. enormous 4. splendid Q.23 Given below are four jumbled sentences. Out of the given options pick the one that gives their correct order. A. He then called out to the people but by then only a red glow was visible in the sky. B. At first, he thought it was a stuck kite. C. Bheema was visiting his fields when he spotted a rising disc shaped object. D. But when it started rising higher and emitted light, he was shocked. Ans 1. CBDA 2. BDAC 3. BACD 4. CDAB Q.24 Given below are four jumbled sentences. Out of the given options pick the one that gives their correct order. A. It requires physical endurance, which can be built with training and exercise. B. Truly strong personalities meet challenges of life bravely and face hardships with equanimity. C. However, strength of character is a personality trait or a quality. D. Physical strength is the ability to cope with a physically challenging task. Ans 1. BACD 2. DBCA 3. DACB 4. CBAD Q.25 Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank. The government has warned the traders not to ______ onions. Ans 1. gross 2. hoard 3. combine 4. bulk Answer Key Q1. 4 Q2. 3 Q3. 4 Q4. 3 Q5. 2 Q6. 3 Q7. 4 Q8. 3 Q9. 3 Q10. 2 Q11. 3 Q12. 3. Q13. 3 Q14. 2 Q 15. 3 Q16. 2 Q17. 2 Q18. 2 Q19. 14. Q20. 1 Q21. 4 Q22. 4 Q23. 1 Q24. 3 Q25. 2

Graham: What time is it? Aren’t we running behind time? Lucy: It’s quarter to nine. We’re on time. Don’t panic. Graham: But I thought we had to be at the office by 8.30. We’ll never make it there with all this heavy traffic. Lucy: Sure we will. We’re supposed to reach there by 9.15. There’s no need to worry. We shall reach at 9 on the dot. Graham: Then, I don’t think I have reasons to worry about. While returning we’ve got to start early to avoid the traffic. Lucy: Surely, We will. Analysis: 1. What time is it: We use this sentence to enquire about the time of the day. 2. running behind time: This phrase is used to indicate that someone is getting late in the process of doing something. 3. quarter to nine: This phrase is used in response to an inquiry about time. This phrase means that ‘ fifteen minutes are left to be nine o’ clock. Note: Quarter: a period of 15 minutes either before or after the specified time. ‘Quarter past nine’ means 9:15. 4. Panic: Panic means ‘ feel frightened suddenly’. Ex: Don’t panic. Everything is okay. 5. Make it there: a) to succeed in reaching a place in time, especially when this is difficult. e.g. The flight leaves in twenty minutes—we'll never make it. b) to be able to be present at a place e.g. I'm sorry I won't be able to make it (= for example, to a party) on Saturday. 6. on the dot (informal) exactly on time or at the exact time mentioned. e.g. a) The taxi showed up on the dot. b) Breakfast is served at 8 on the dot. c) Please tell him I’ll call him on the dot of twelve. 7. have got to: used to show that you must do something. e.g. Sorry, I've got to go/ You've got to do this work. Reference: Advanced Learner's Dictionary of Current English by A. S. Hornby (OUP)

Let's Pull up Our Socks in Interactive English. Graham: Hello, Lucy ! Please be seated. How are you doing? Lucy: Not well, doctor. I’ve been down with flue. Graham: How long have you had this symptom? Lucy: About three days now. I feel dead tired as well. Graham: I see. Is cough accompanied with the flu? Lucy: Not at all. But I’ve got extreme body ache. Graham: I’ve prescribed aspirin, which you need to take every four hours. Lucy: Is there any dietary restrictions, doctor? Graham: Not exactly. Take plenty of rest and make sure you drink lots of fluids. Lucy: Thanks a lot. Have a Nice Day. Graham: You are welcome. Analysis: 1. Please be seated: We use this expression to ask someone to sit. You can also say ‘ Have a Seat’ in this situation. 2. How are you doing? This is another way of asking ‘ How are you’. ‘How are you doing’ is used exclusively in informal situation. 3. down with: This phrase is used in informal situation . This phrase means ‘suffer from’. Instead of saying ‘I’m suffering from’, you can say I’m down with flu….. 4. How long have you had: This expression means that ‘since when have you been suffering from….’. These are typical spoken English terms used informally in daily conversation. 5. dead tired: ‘dead tired’ means absolute tired. ‘Dead’ in this context means 'extremely' e.g. The car gave a sudden jerk and came to a dead stop. 6. accompanied with: This phrase means ‘ if something else also happens. e.g. fever accompanied with cold. She is accompanied by her husband on the trip. 7. dietary restrictions: This phrase means ‘ restrictions about food.’ Lucy here asks whether there is any restriction on her food intake due to flu. 8. make sure: to check something has been done. e.g. She looked around to make sure that she was alone. e.g.I think the door's locked, but I'll just go and make sure.

Synonyms, Antonyms, Idioms, Prepositions, Error Detection, Cloze Test, Sequential Order etc Q.1 Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank. It is an ______ day to start your new business. Ans 1. auspicious 2. audacious 3. occasional 4. ominous Q.2 Select the antonym of the given word. HILARIOUS Ans 1. Happy 2. Merry 3. Blithe 4. Sad Q.3 Select the synonym of the given word. PATHETIC Ans 1. Pitiful 2. Curious 3. Insignificant 4. Dull Q.4 Select the most appropriate word to substitute the underlined word of the given sentence. If no substitution is required, select ‘No improvement’. There is a great degrade in values in modern age. Ans 1. degradation of values 2. No improvement 3. demonstration from values 4. deliberation for values Q.5 Select the correct indirect form of the given sentence. He said to me, "What are you doing?" Ans 1. He said that what I was doing. 2. He said what I had been doing. 3. He asked me what I was doing. 4. He asked me that what was I doing Q.6 In the sentence identify the segment which contains the grammatical error. The modern man is busy acquiring more and more wealth and designing ways to invest it in more sense pleasures. Ans 1. modern man is busy 2. acquiring more and more wealth 3. in more sense pleasures 4. designing ways to invest it Comprehension: In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Fill in the blanks with the help of the alternatives given. Select the most appropriate option for each blank. Machines were made to be man's servants. Yet, man has grown so (1)______ on them that they are in a fair way to become his (2)______. Already men spend most of their lives looking after and waiting (3)______ machines. Machines are very stern bosses. They must be fed with coal and (4)______ petrol to drink and oil to wash with and must be kept at an (5)______ temperature. Sub Question No : 7 Q.7 Select the most appropriate option for blank no. 1 Ans 1. dependent 2. inferior 3. subordinate 4. helpless Sub Question No : 8 Q.8 Select the most appropriate option for blank no. 2 Ans 1. victims 2. masters 3. slaves 4. administrators Sub Question No : 9 Q.9 Select the most appropriate option for blank no. 3 Ans 1. into 2. upon 3. under 4. from Sub Question No : 10 Q.10 Select the most appropriate option for blank no. 4 Ans 1. gave 2. give 3. given 4. gives Sub Question No : 11 Q.11 Select the most appropriate option for blank no. 5 Ans 1. optimist 2. outdated 3. optimum 4. optional Q.12 Select the most appropriate word to fill in the blank. He ______ a heinous crime. Ans 1. made 2. committed 3. occurred 4. happened Q.13 Select the most appropriate segment to substitute the underlined segment of the given sentence. If no substitution is required select ‘No improvement’ A man in need pleaded for help. Ans 1. No improvement 2. promised for help 3. commanded to help 4. requested for helping Q.14 Given below are four jumbled sentences. Out of the given options pick the one that gives their correct order. A. Can I borrow your camera? B. I will give it back to you next week. C. I am going to jungle safari tomorrow. D. My friend told me that jungle is beautiful in these days. Ans 1. ADBC 2. CDAB 3. CADB 4. BACD Q.15 Select the wrongly spelt word. Ans 1. Mansion 2. Ostentasion 3. Extension 4. Persuasion Q.16 Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom On shank's mare Ans 1. On foot 2. On a lion 3. On a bicycle 4. On an elephant Q.17 Select the correct active form of the given sentence. The thief was being arrested by the police. Ans 1. The police had arrested the thief. 2. The police arrested the thief. 3. The police has arrested the thief. 4. The police was arresting the thief. Q.18 Given below are four jumbled sentences. Out of the given options pick the one that gives their correct order. A. Nevertheless, sound health, economic security and mental satisfaction are desired by all B. A change that is conducive to happiness may be termed as progress. C. But different people find happiness in different things. D. So, If a change contributes to the growth of these factors, it is progress. Ans 1. BDCA 2. BCAD 3. DBCA 4. ABCD Q.19 Select the synonym of the given word. PENITENCE Ans 1. Patience 2. Admiration 3. Repentance 4. Misery Q.20 Select the wrongly spelt word. Ans 1. Practicle 2. Flexible 3. Elegant 4. Flashy Q.21 Select one word for the following group of words. One who leaves his own country to settle in another Ans 1. Foreigner 2. Native 3. Tourist 4. Emigrant Q.22 Select one word for the following group of words. A period of ten years Ans 1. Millennium 2. Decade 3. Century 4. Fortnight Q.23 In the sentence identify the segment which contains the grammatical error. The Prime Minister, along with the other ministers have left for America. Ans 1. for America 2. The Prime Minister along with 3. have left 4. the other ministers Q.24 Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom A snake in the grass Ans 1 . A secret enemy 2. A good friend 3. A well-wisher 4. Difficult to find Q.25 Select the antonym of the given word. VICIOUS Ans 1. Unfortunate 2. Virtuous 3. Sinful 4. Baneful Note: Answer Key will be uploaded very soon. If you are able to correct 20/25, you are brilliant in English language.

Cloze Test, Error Detection, Synonyms, Antonyms etc. Dear Aspirants of English Olympiad/SSC/Bank/Railway Exams, There is a set of 20 questions given below. Solve these questions and then check your answers, which are given at the bottom of the page. Directions (Q1 to Q5) In these questions, some parts of the sentences have errors and some are correct. Find out which part of a sentence has an error and select that part (A), (B), (c) as your answer. If a sentence is free from error, then (D) is your answer. 1. There are a some occasions (A)/ when the prince steps out of his estate (B)/and joins a stream of paupers (c)/No error (D) 2. A man who has never tasted the bitterness of adversity (A)/does not know where the shoe pinches (B)/and cannot, therefore, feel for the distress (C)/ No error (D) 3. Anil go to a restaurant ( A) /took a cup of coffee ( B) / paid the bill and came out (c)/ No error (D) 4. I think we should (A)/agree to (B) Sue’s proposal (C)/No error (D) 5. It is strange that even after ( A) /learning music for five years ( B) / he still cannot hum a tune correct ( c) / No error ( D) Directions ( Q6-10) In these questions, sentences are given with blanks to be filled in with an appropriate word(s). Four alternatives are suggested for each question. Choose the correct alternative out of the four. 6. __________ work is more enjoyable than compulsory work. a) Mechanical b) Temporary (c) Voluntary (D) Slavish 7. No one ________ more than ten rupees for the doll. a) Bidden (b) bade (c) bid (d) bidded 8. We cannot _________ such dreadful behaviour a) Condone (b) conduct (c) constrain (d) condense. 9. Keep cordial relationship with the parents and _______ them with respect. a) Trait b) tread c) treat d) trite 10. His _____role as composer and conductor at the concert was appreciated by one and all. a) Duel b) duet c) dual d) dues Directions: (Q11-Q15) In these questions out of four alternatives, choose the one which best expresses the meaning of the given word. 11. Plagiarise a) Criticise b) summarise c) copy d) exercise. 12. Quandary a) A good mental state b) a state of doubt c) a state of perplexity d) a state of hesitation. 13. Tetchy a) thrashy b) testy c) touchy d) tasty 14. Procrastinate a) Postpone b) accelerate c) proceed d) exacerbate 15. Gallantry a) Maverick b) valour c) cowardice d) Fearfulness. Directions (Q16-Q20) In these questions, choose the word opposite in meaning to the given word. 16. Profligate a) thrifty b) rich c) generous d) spendthrift 17. Humility a) Smart b) pride c) selfish d) frank 18. Barren a) Rich b) fertile c) idle d) little 19. Ally a) Stranger (b) companion (c) Opponent (d) friend 20. Veracious a) Complicated b) dishonest c) honest d) simple Word-Bank Answer Key Q1. (A) Q2. (c) Q3. (A) Q4. (D) Q5. (C) Q6. (c) Q7. (c) Q8. (a) Q9. (c) Q10. (c) Q11 (c) Q12. (b) Q13. (b) Q14. (a) Q15. (b) Q16. (a) Q17. (b), Q18 (b) Q19 ( c) Q20. (b)

Topic: One Word Substitution 1.A person who talks much is ...........( garrulous) 2. A person who loves mankind is .......... ( philanthropist) 3.A person who hates mankind is ............( misanthropist) 4. A person who does not believe in God is ...... ( atheist) 5. A person who cannot pay off his debts is...... ( insolvent) 6. A student who stays away from the school/class ...... (truant) 7. A person who stays away from alcoholic drinks...... ( teetotaler) 8. A person who remains indifferent to pain or pleasure ....... (stoic) 9. A person who looks at the bright side of life ........ ( optimist) 10 A person who looks at the dark side of life ........ ( pessimist) 11.A person who knows many languages..... ( linguist) 12. A person who is experience in a field ......... ( veteran) 13. A person who is new or inexperienced in a field...... ( novice) 14. A person who has sweet and friendly nature ........ ( amicable) 15. A person who believes easily...... ( credulous) 16. A person who dies for his country ........(martyr) 17. A person who does not love his country ....... ( traitor) 18. A place where birds are kept...... ( aviary) 19. A place where pigs are kept ..... ( sty) 20. A place for keeping dogs..... ( kennel) 21. A place where clothes are washed and ironed ..... ( laundry) 22. A place where fish are kept...... ( aquarium) 23. A place where fruits are grown......... (orchard) 24. A child born after the death of his father .... ( posthumous) 25. The act of killing human beings....... ( homicide) 26. Mass killing of the people of own kind....( genocide) 27. The dead body of a human being....... ( corpse) 28. The dead body of an animal........ ( carcass) 29. A place where dead bodies are kept temporarily.... ( mortuary) 30. An inscription on a tomb ..... ( epitaph) 31. A Vehicle for carrying dead bodies to the cemetery ( hearse) 32. A speech made without preparation ....... ( extempore) 33. A book containing names and address of people.... ( directory) 34. A word or term no more in use ........ ( obsolete) 35. Life account of a person ....... ( biography) 36. An account of life written by self...... ( autobiography) 37. An instrument for measuring atmospheric pressure... ( barometer) 38. An instrument for seeing distant objects more clearly.... ( binocular) 39. An instrument for tracing the movement of heart.... ( cardiograph) 40. A book containing information of all subjects........ ( encyclopedia) 41. A book of accounts showing debits and credits.... ( ledger) 42. The study of human society....... ( sociology) 43. The study of human origin, institutions and beliefs...... ( anthropology) 44. The science of the origin and history of universe....... (cosmology) 45. A specialist in mental disorders......... ( psychiatrist) 46. The science of the diseases of the human body...... ( pathology) 47. A doctor who treats the disease of bones..... ( orthopedic) 48. Revolot against a lawful authority...... ( mutiny) 49. A doctor who treats heart diseases..... ( cardiologist) 50. To cut off an infected part of a person's body....... ( amputate) ....... ( To be continued)