SSC CGL Tier 1 2016 English Comprehension Questions with Solutions

Explanation

The phrase "at about" is considered an error of redundancy in formal grammar. The preposition "at" is used to indicate a precise, exact point in time (e.g., at 4 o'clock), whereas the adverb "about" is used to indicate an approximate or estimated time (e.g., about 4 o'clock). Using both together is superfluous because they provide conflicting levels of precision. To maintain grammatical correctness in competitive examinations, the sentence should use either "at 4 o'clock" or "about 4 o'clock," but not both.

Explanation

The idiom to keep an eye on someone or something is a standard English expression that means to watch, monitor, or supervise a person or situation carefully. It is commonly used in the context of surveillance or security to indicate that a specific subject is being observed for any suspicious behavior or to ensure safety. In this sentence, the phrase fits the grammatical structure and conveys the intended meaning that the police are maintaining a close watch on the individual's actions. Unlike literal descriptions of sight, this fixed idiomatic expression typically uses the singular form of eye to represent the concept of vigilant observation.

Explanation

In English grammar, the adjective interested is followed by the fixed preposition in when referring to a hobby, activity, or subject of curiosity. This idiomatic construction is used to express a person's desire to give attention to or learn about something. Therefore, when describing an involvement or curiosity in a pursuit such as stamp collecting, the standard and grammatically correct phrase is interested in.

Explanation

The verb confirms is the third-person singular present form of confirm, which means to establish the truth or correctness of something or to provide supportive evidence. In this sentence, the singular subject report requires a singular verb ending in s to maintain subject-verb agreement. The statement indicates that the content of the report validates or corroborates the information previously given in the statement.

Explanation

The idiom to get cold feet refers to a sudden loss of courage or the onset of nervousness and apprehension regarding a planned course of action. It describes a state of fear or hesitation that typically occurs just before a significant event or commitment, often leading an individual to reconsider or back out of their original intention due to a lack of confidence.

Explanation

The idiom beside the mark originated from archery or target shooting, where the mark refers to the bullseye or the intended target. If an arrow lands beside the mark, it has missed the target entirely. Figuratively, the phrase is used to describe a statement, argument, or piece of evidence that is irrelevant, inaccurate, or fails to address the specific matter at hand. It indicates that something is not pertinent or lacks connection to the central theme of a discussion.

Explanation

The idiom on tenterhooks describes a state of being in anxious suspense or uneasy anticipation. It originates from the traditional cloth-making process, where freshly woven or cleaned woollen cloth was stretched over a wooden frame called a tenter. The fabric was held in place by sharp metal hooks known as tenterhooks to prevent it from shrinking and to ensure it dried flat and square. Metaphorically, a person on tenterhooks is like the cloth on the frame—stretched tight, strained, and filled with tension while waiting for an outcome or information.

Explanation

Patrimony is the term used to describe property, wealth, or an estate that is legally inherited from one's father or ancestors. The word is derived from the Latin patrimonium, combining pater, meaning father, with the suffix monium, which denotes a state or condition. It refers specifically to the lineage of ownership and the transfer of assets through family generations.

Explanation

The term effeminate is used to describe a man who exhibits traits, manners, or habits that are typically regarded as feminine rather than masculine. It is derived from the Latin word effeminatus, which means to make feminine. In a linguistic context, it specifically refers to a male person whose behavior, appearance, or speech resembles qualities traditionally associated with women, often used to describe someone who is womanish in his habits or demeanor.

Explanation

The term proselyte refers to a person who has changed from one opinion, belief, or religious faith to another. It is derived from the Greek word proselytos, which means a newcomer or one who has arrived at a place. In historical and theological contexts, it specifically identifies an individual who has undergone a formal conversion process to join a different religious community.

Explanation

In English grammar, the quantifiers some and any are used to describe indefinite quantities of uncountable or plural nouns. The standard rule is that some is used in affirmative statements, while any is used in questions and negative sentences. Since the sentence is an interrogative inquiring about the presence or possession of an item, any is the grammatically appropriate word to use. While some is occasionally used in questions that represent offers or requests where a positive response is anticipated, a general inquiry into the existence of an item typically requires the use of any.

Explanation

The verb lie, when used to mean making an intentionally false statement, follows a regular conjugation pattern. Its principal forms are lie in the present tense, lied in the past tense, and lied as the past participle. In the context of the sentence, which describes the character Iago telling falsehoods to Othello about Desdemona, the past tense lied is the grammatically accurate form. The sentence is already correct as written because it properly uses the past tense of the verb lie to denote the act of deception.

Explanation

The phrase in a nutshell is a standard idiomatic expression in English used to describe something very briefly or in a few words. This fixed idiom requires the indefinite article a between the preposition in and the noun nutshell to be grammatically and stylistically correct. It functions as an adverbial phrase meaning concisely or in summary, and omitting the article makes the expression incomplete.

Explanation

The idiomatic expression all the same is used to indicate that a choice or situation makes no difference to the person involved. In this context, it conveys that the speaker is indifferent to being transferred to Mumbai or Kolkata, as both outcomes are equal in their view. The phrase functions as a predicate adjective meaning immaterial or of no consequence when following the verb to be. Using all the same follows standard English usage for expressing lack of preference between two alternatives.

Explanation

The idiomatic expression hard up means to be short of money or to be in financial difficulty. In the context of the sentence, which mentions financial assistance from a father, the phrase describes a person who is perpetually lacking sufficient funds despite receiving help. Hard on usually implies being strict or harsh toward someone, which does not fit the intended meaning of financial scarcity in this sentence.

Explanation

The passage directly attributes the tiresome nature of retirement to the lack of engagement during unstructured hours. It states that hobbies could have transformed retirement into a period of creativity and contentment, which signifies that the absence of these interests is the primary reason why elders find themselves unable to utilize their leisure time effectively or enjoyably.

Explanation

The passage highlights that the Japanese are among the worst sufferers of the inability to utilize leisure time effectively. It explicitly states that because they are unable to while away the long, unstructured hours of their weekends, many of them have become addicts to coffee or hard liquor and have even taken to gambling. This behavior is presented as the actual consequence of their weekends, which the text notes have wreaked havoc on their health and happiness instead of providing enjoyment.

Explanation

The passage identifies the syllabus-loaded education system as the primary cause of the social malady where individuals cannot utilize leisure time effectively. It explicitly states that this system places a heavy workload on children and youth by emphasizing rote memory over the development of intelligence and creative interests. This heavy workload functions as a significant burden during formative years, preventing the youth from cultivating hobbies that would otherwise provide contentment during periods of leisure or retirement.

Explanation

The author explicitly states in the first paragraph that retirees find their post-work years tiresome because they have too little to fill their time. The passage suggests that hobbies could have instead turned this period into a time of creativity and contentment. By identifying the lack of productive leisure activities as the root of the problem and proposing hobbies as the alternative, the author clearly indicates that engaging in such interests is essential for transforming the unfortunate situation of boredom and its associated negative social impacts into a positive experience.

Explanation

The passage highlights that hobbies are a transformative force that can turn the idle and stressful period of retirement into a time of creativity and contentment. By contrasting the negative health outcomes and psychological distress faced by those unable to utilize leisure time with the potential for fulfillment through personal interests, the text underscores the vital importance of hobbies. It suggests that engaging in such activities is essential for maintaining mental well-being and physical health, serving as a necessary countermeasure to the lack of structure that often leads to anxiety and unhealthy habits.

Explanation

The word abortive refers to an attempt, plan, or action that fails to produce the intended result or is terminated before completion. It is commonly used to describe efforts that prove fruitless or ineffective, signifying that the desired outcome was not achieved. In this context, unsuccessful is the most accurate synonym as it directly describes something that does not result in success or the attainment of a specific goal.

Explanation

The word irascible describes a person who is easily provoked to anger or has a hot-tempered and irritable disposition. In contrast, amiable means having or displaying a friendly, pleasant, and good-natured manner. Because irascible refers to a tendency toward hostility and ill-temper, while amiable refers to a tendency toward friendliness and sociability, they are opposite in meaning.

Explanation

The word thoroughly is the adverbial form of the adjective thorough. It is constructed by taking the base adjective thorough, spelled T-H-O-R-O-U-G-H, and appending the standard suffix -ly to indicate the manner of an action. Etymologically, it originates from the Old English word thuruh, which is a variant of the word through. In modern English usage, thoroughly denotes that an action is performed in a complete, exhaustive, or meticulous way, ensuring every detail is addressed. The spelling follows the standard English convention for adverbs derived from adjectives ending in a consonant, where the suffix is added directly to the end of the root word.

Explanation

The error lies in the usage of the adverb far to modify the word worth. In English grammar, the idiomatic expression used to emphasize that something is fully deserving of the effort, time, or money spent is well worth. While far is commonly used as an intensifier for comparative adjectives such as far better or far more, it does not collocate with worth to express merit or value in this context. Replacing far with well correctly conveys that the result of the trek justifies the strenuous effort involved in the endeavour.

Explanation

The error lies in the use of the interrogative word What in part (A). The sentence is a rhetorical inquiry regarding the most noble manner or way in which a person can die. In English, when asking about the manner, condition, or quality of an action, the interrogative adverb How must be used. The construction What man asks for the identity of a specific person, whereas the context of the sentence compares the circumstances of death. Replacing What with How changes the focus to the manner of dying, making the comparison better than serving his country grammatically and semantically logical.

Explanation

The verb prevent follows a fixed grammatical pattern where it is used with the preposition from followed by a gerund (the -ing form of a verb). The structure prevent someone from doing something is the standard idiomatic usage. Using an infinitive (to + verb) after prevent is grammatically incorrect. Therefore, the phrase to go there in part C must be replaced with from going there to ensure the sentence is correct.

Explanation

The sentence requires a conjunctive adverb to indicate a contrast or contradiction between two ideas. The first clause establishes a disadvantage—the lack of recommendations—while the second clause states a positive outcome. The word however functions as a transition meaning nevertheless or in spite of that, showing that the result of getting the job will occur despite the absence of the mentioned qualifications. When used within a clause in this manner, it effectively signals that the preceding information does not prevent the subsequent action from happening.

Explanation

The phrasal verb fall off is used to describe the process of becoming detached or separated from a point of attachment. In the context of seasonal changes, deciduous trees shed their leaves in autumn. This natural process involves the leaves disconnecting from the branches and dropping away. The use of the preposition off specifically indicates this movement of separation from a surface or support, accurately depicting how leaves leave the tree structure during this time of year.

Explanation

The word so is used in English as a substitute for a preceding verb phrase to avoid unnecessary repetition. In this sentence, the phrase do so functions as a pro-verb that refers back to the action of climbing the tree mentioned in the first clause. This construction is grammatically standard when describing a failure or success in performing an action that has already been explicitly stated.

Explanation

The idiom originates from the biological behavior of the cuckoo bird, which is a brood parasite. Cuckoos lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species, forcing the host birds to raise the cuckoo chick, often at the expense of their own offspring. Metaphorically, the phrase describes someone who has entered a group, family, or organization where they do not belong and are not wanted, often with the intent of displacing the original members or causing disruption. Consequently, it characterizes the individual as an unwelcome intruder who has inserted themselves into a situation or environment.

Explanation

The idiom a house of cards refers to a structure, situation, or plan that is extremely fragile and likely to fail or collapse because it is built on a weak or unstable foundation. Just as a physical structure built by balancing playing cards is precarious and can be toppled by the slightest breath of wind, an insecure scheme lacks the necessary support or logic to remain sustainable in the long term.

Explanation

The idiom to smell a rat means to suspect that something is wrong, dishonest, or deceptive in a particular situation. It is used when someone senses that they are being tricked or that there is foul play involved, even if there is no immediate or obvious proof. The phrase likely originates from the ability of a dog or cat to sniff out a rat that is hidden from sight, symbolizing the detection of something suspicious or underhanded.

Explanation

A boutique is a small retail business that specializes in fashionable clothing, jewelry, cosmetics, or other luxury goods. The term originates from the French word for shop and is specifically used to describe a store that offers a curated and stylish selection of items for a niche market. Unlike larger department stores or general retailers, a boutique typically focuses on high-end or unique products, providing a more personalized and specialized shopping experience for its customers.

Explanation

An interlude is defined as an intervening period of time or a pause that occurs between two events, parts of a play, or musical performances. The term originates from the Latin word interludium, which literally means between plays, and it describes a temporary gap or a transitionary phase that separates two distinct occurrences. In a broader sense, it refers to any episode or interval that breaks the continuity of a sequence, providing a brief interruption before the next segment or event begins.

Explanation

The term idiosyncrasy refers to a behavioral attribute or a way of thinking that is distinctive and peculiar to a specific individual. Derived from the Greek words idios, meaning private or personal, and sunkrasis, meaning temperament or mixture, it describes a unique quirk, mannerism, or mental habit that sets one person apart from others. It is specifically used to denote those eccentricities or highly individualized patterns of behavior that are characteristic of a person's particular nature.

Explanation

The phrase the wages of sin is death is a famous biblical proverb from Romans 6:23. In this specific idiomatic and theological context, the word wages is treated as a singular noun meaning the recompense or the inevitable consequence of an action. Although the word appears plural in form, it functions as a singular subject representing a singular conceptual result, thus requiring the singular verb is. Furthermore, because the statement is a well-known proverb or universal truth, it typically remains in the present tense even when reported in indirect speech.

Explanation

The phrasal verb take one's eyes off something is a standard English idiom meaning to stop looking at or watching something, especially when constant attention is required. In the context of driving, the preposition off denotes the action of moving one's gaze away from the surface of the road. While of expresses a relationship of belonging or origin, off functions as a particle indicating separation or disconnection from a specific point or object. Therefore, to correctly convey that a driver maintains their focus on the path ahead, the term off must be used to describe the act of averting their sight.

Explanation

The phrase "for all" is an established English idiom meaning "in spite of" or "despite." Since the original sentence is grammatically correct and idiomatic, no improvement is required.

Explanation

The term adjourned is the standard vocabulary used in formal or official contexts, such as meetings, legislative sessions, or legal proceedings, to indicate that the business of the day has been ended with the intention of resuming it at a specific later date or time. In the sentence provided, the phrase until the following Monday indicates a temporary suspension followed by a scheduled resumption, which perfectly aligns with the definition of an adjournment. Use of this term signifies a procedural pause in the continuity of the meeting.

Explanation

The passage explicitly identifies the increase in earnings as a primary consequence of liberalisation. It states that a major change resulting from this economic shift is that today's youngsters are earning more than ever before, often drawing fatter salaries than their parents. This direct causal link established in the text confirms that liberalisation has primarily enabled the youth to be paid more.

Explanation

In the context of the passage, the phrase blowing it up is used as a colloquial idiom to describe the act of spending money recklessly or wastefully. The author contrasts this behavior with sensibly saving it, establishing a clear dichotomy between extravagant consumption and financial prudence. This meaning is further reinforced in the subsequent sentence where the author uses the term splurge to describe the same group of youngsters, indicating that they are using their high salaries for immediate gratification and luxury spending rather than for long-term investments like mutual funds or housing loans.

Explanation

The passage indicates that liberalization has led to a significant increase in the earning capacity of the younger generation, with many drawing salaries that surpass those of their parents. This rise in early-career income allows youngsters to consider long-term investments and tax-saving schemes much earlier than previous generations. Because they possess the financial means to service debt and seek tax breaks through property investment, the average age of individuals taking housing loans has dropped from 41 to 28.

Explanation

According to the passage, the specific investments that provide individuals with tax breaks include insurance, home loans, and mutual fund savings schemes. The text explicitly mentions that youngsters are increasingly opting for these particular avenues to manage their higher earnings and secure financial benefits. Purchasing jewellery is not listed among these tax-saving options in the provided text, nor does it typically qualify for tax deductions or exemptions under standard financial regulations related to tax-saving investments.

Explanation

The passage highlights a shift in the financial behavior of youngsters following liberalization, noting that while some individuals tend to splurge or spend their earnings heavily, many others are actively engaged in saving and investing. This is evidenced by the mention of youngsters utilizing mutual funds, tax-saving bonds, insurance, and home loans. The text specifically contrasts those who blow up their money with those who sensibly save it, confirming that the demographic is split between high spenders and disciplined savers.

Explanation

The term sycophant refers to an individual who acts in an obsequious or servile manner toward someone important or influential to gain a personal advantage. It is derived from the Greek word sykophentes, originally meaning an informer. In modern English, it describes a person who uses excessive and insincere praise to win favor, which is the precise definition of a flatterer. Such individuals are characterized by their submissive and agreeable behavior intended solely to please a superior for self-serving motives.

Explanation

Forlorn describes a state of being pitifully sad, abandoned, or lonely, often suggesting a sense of hopelessness or being in a wretched and miserable condition. Joyful is the direct antonym because it denotes a state of great happiness, cheerfulness, and high spirits. While forlorn conveys gloom and despair, joyful represents the opposite emotional spectrum of elation and delight.

Explanation

The word Separate is correctly spelled with the vowel sequence e-a-a-e. It originates from the Latin word separatus, which is the past participle of separare, meaning to pull apart or to set aside. This Latin root is formed by combining the prefix se-, meaning apart, with parare, meaning to prepare or set. In English, the term functions as an adjective meaning distinct or disconnected, and as a verb meaning to divide or move apart. A common mnemonic used to remember the correct placement of the vowels is that there is a rat in separate.

Explanation

The error is in part C because the word advice is an uncountable noun and does not have a plural form. In English grammar, uncountable nouns cannot be pluralized by adding an s, nor can they be preceded by the quantifier many, which is used only with countable nouns. To express a large quantity of advice correctly, one should use much advice or a phrase like many pieces of advice. Consequently, using many good advices is grammatically incorrect in the context of general guidance or information provided by a book.

Explanation

The error is in the subject-verb agreement within the relative clause. When a relative pronoun such as who serves as the subject of a clause, the verb that follows must agree in number and person with its antecedent. In this sentence, the antecedent of who is the man, which is a third-person singular noun. Therefore, the verb must also be in the singular form. The plural auxiliary verb have is incorrect in this context and must be replaced with the singular form has to ensure grammatical correctness.

Explanation

The error lies in the verb phrase is make which fails both in subject-verb agreement and in voice. The subject of the sentence is new inventions, which is a plural noun and therefore requires the plural auxiliary verb are instead of the singular is. Furthermore, the sentence is in the passive voice because inventions are the result of an action rather than the doers. In the passive voice, the auxiliary verb must be followed by the past participle form of the main verb, which is made. Consequently, the correct construction should be are made to accurately reflect the plural subject and the passive nature of the statement.