SSC CGL Tier 1 2020 English Comprehension Questions with Solutions

Explanation

The verb agree takes different prepositions depending on the object it follows. When expressing consent or formal acceptance of a plan, suggestion, or proposal, the correct preposition to use is to. Therefore, the phrase agree to the proposal is the grammatically accurate choice in this context as it signifies the Director's formal assent to a presented plan. In contrast, agree with is typically reserved for indicating harmony or shared opinion with a person or their viewpoint, rather than a formal document or scheme like a proposal.

Explanation

The word obligatory refers to something that is required by a legal, moral, or other rule, making it compulsory or binding. Similarly, mandatory describes an action or requirement that is commanded by an authority or law and must be performed. Both terms signify that a particular task or behavior is not optional but essential to fulfill an requirement.

Explanation

The original sentence is in the Simple Present tense, as indicated by the verb keeps. To convert a sentence from active to passive voice in the Simple Present tense, the structure Subject + is/am/are + Past Participle (V3) + by + Agent is followed. Here, the object the work becomes the subject of the passive sentence. Since the work is an uncountable noun acting as a singular subject, it requires the auxiliary verb is. The past participle of keep is kept. Following the structure, the sentence becomes: The work is kept pending by the manager.

Explanation

The subject of the sentence is the singular pronoun "One", which follows the rule that when a subject is structured as "One of + plural noun", the verb must agree with the singular "One" rather than the plural noun that follows it. In this sentence, "One" is the true subject, while "of the boys" is a prepositional phrase acting as a modifier. Consequently, the plural auxiliary verb "have" is grammatically incorrect and should be replaced with the singular form "has" to ensure proper subject-verb agreement.

Explanation

The verb render is a formal term used to mean provide or give, specifically in the context of services, aid, or assistance. In English collocations, render help is a standard idiomatic expression used to describe the act of extending support or performing a service for those in need. It implies a sense of duty or formal contribution of effort and resources to assist vulnerable groups like the homeless and physically disabled.

Explanation

The sequence begins with sentence C, which introduces and defines the primary subject, growth of population, as the change in the number of inhabitants. Sentence B naturally follows as it uses the demonstrative phrase This change to refer back to the definition provided in sentence C, stating that it can be expressed in two ways. Sentence D then elaborates on these two ways by specifying absolute numbers and percentage change, completing the logical flow of that specific point. Finally, sentence A concludes the paragraph by using the transition However to introduce an additional factor, the rate of population increase, which complements the preceding discussion on how growth is measured.

Explanation

The word vital is an adjective that means absolutely necessary or essential to the existence or success of something. In the context of the passage, the sentence emphasizes that communication is a fundamental and indispensable element in the progress and growth of human beings. The phrase plays a vital role is a standard colocation in English used to highlight that a particular factor is of critical importance to a process. Since the passage discusses how communication forms the basis for professional success and personal development, describing its role as vital accurately reflects its essential nature.

Explanation

The passage discusses communication as a skill that is essential for personal and professional development. Learning a complex skill such as communication requires deliberate and intentional practice rather than happening by chance. The word conscious describes efforts that are intentional, purposeful, and made with full awareness. Therefore, in the context of improving one's ability to read, write, and speak, conscious efforts accurately reflects the dedicated and mindful approach necessary to master these competencies.

Explanation

The word ability refers to the possession of the means or skill required to perform a specific task or action. In the context of the sentence, it describes the mental or physical power and the learned skills necessary to read, write, and speak effectively. Success in professional life is directly linked to an individual's competence and proficiency in these core communication areas. The phrase ability to followed by an infinitive verb is a standard idiomatic construction in English used to denote one's capacity to execute those actions successfully.

Explanation

The noun barrier is idiomatically paired with the preposition to when it refers to an obstacle that prevents progress, access, or the completion of a process. In the context of the passage, barriers to communication identifies the specific hurdles that obstruct the flow of information. This prepositional phrase correctly establishes the relationship between the hindrance and the objective it affects, adhering to standard English grammatical usage for describing factors that limit effective interaction.

Explanation

In the context of communication, barriers represent obstacles or difficulties that prevent a message from being received or understood correctly. The passage states that these barriers hinder the communication process, and the subsequent clause explains that the ultimate goal is to ensure the transmission of the message is smooth. To achieve this smooth flow of information, one must successfully deal with, get past, or remove these obstacles. The verb overcome specifically means to prevail over or defeat a problem or hurdle, making it the linguistically and logically appropriate choice to use with barriers in order to facilitate effective interaction.

Explanation

A dirge is a mournful song or lament that is specifically composed or performed as a memorial for the deceased. It is characterized by its solemn, slow, and somber tone, intended to express grief during funeral services or burial ceremonies. The word originates from the Latin term dirige, which is the opening word of the Antiphon in the Office of the Dead.

Explanation

Sentence B introduces the central theme by stating a general human tendency to find faults in government policies. Sentence D logically follows B as a consequence, using the connector so to explain that because of this tendency, people criticize policy makers. Sentence C then specifies the nature of this criticism, explaining that they blame the government for slow progress while expecting miracles. Finally, sentence A uses the contrastive transition however to point out the flaw in this logic, emphasizing that progress is actually dependent on individual labor rather than government action alone.

Explanation

The word scintillating is an adjective that describes something shining or sparkling brightly with flashes of light. It originates from the Latin word scintillare, which means to spark. In a figurative sense, it is often used to describe someone or something that is brilliantly clever, animated, or witty. The word glittering is a direct synonym as it also describes the quality of reflecting light in bright, sparkling flashes or being impressively magnificent and successful. Both terms share the core meaning of radiance and vivid brilliance.

Explanation

The sentence describes an ability in the past, indicated by the clause when I was only five. In English grammar, the modal verb can is used to express present ability, while could is used to express general ability or power in the past. To maintain tense consistency throughout the sentence, the present tense modal can must be replaced with its past tense form could. Therefore, the segment I can swim contains the grammatical error as it fails to align with the past time frame established later in the sentence.

Explanation

The word exhibit is correctly spelled and functions as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to manifest a quality or feeling by one's behavior or to publicly display an object of interest in an art gallery, museum, or trade fair. As a noun, it refers to an object or collection of objects on public display. The spelling is derived from the Latin exhibere, which means to hold out or present.

Explanation

The idiom a hard nut to crack refers to a problem or a situation that is very difficult to solve or a person who is hard to understand or influence. It originates from the physical difficulty of breaking open a nut with a tough outer shell, which requires significant effort or specific tools. In figurative language, it describes any task, individual, or challenge that poses a formidable obstacle and cannot be easily dealt with or overcome.

Explanation

The word quiescent is derived from the Latin quiescere, meaning to rest, and it describes a state of inactivity, dormancy, or being at rest. An antonym must convey the opposite state of energy or movement. Active is the correct antonym because it refers to a state of being in motion, engaging in energetic action, or being characterized by busy and constant operation. While quiescent suggests stillness or potential energy waiting to be used, active represents the dynamic expression of that energy.

Explanation

When converting a direct interrogative sentence starting with a modal verb into indirect speech, the reporting verb said to is changed to asked. The conjunction if or whether is used to connect the reporting clause with the reported speech, and the interrogative word order is replaced by an assertive structure (subject + verb). Following the rule of sequence of tenses, the modal can is shifted to its past form could because the reporting verb is in the past tense. Additionally, pronouns are adjusted based on the context: you refers to the receptionist and becomes he, while me refers to the speaker and becomes him.

Explanation

Sarcasm is correctly spelt and serves as a noun referring to the use of irony to mock or convey contempt. The word is derived from the Greek sarkasmos and the Late Latin sarcasmus. Its English spelling is phonetic and consistent with other words of Greek origin ending in the suffix -asm, such as enthusiasm or iconoclasm. The word does not feature any double consonants or silent terminal letters.

Explanation

When two subjects are joined by the phrase as well as, the verb must agree in number and person with the first subject mentioned. In this sentence, the first subject is the captain, which is a singular noun. Consequently, the auxiliary verb must be the singular was to ensure proper subject-verb agreement. Additionally, the grammatical structure requires the complete correlative conjunction as well as to properly link the two subjects. Because the first subject dictates the form of the verb regardless of the plural noun the players that follows the conjunction, the singular verb was is the only grammatically correct option.

Explanation

The idiom to take French leave signifies departing from a place, social function, or workplace without providing any prior notification or seeking permission. The phrase originated from an 18th-century French social custom where it was sometimes considered acceptable to leave a party without disturbing the host or other guests with a formal farewell. In contemporary usage, it typically refers to being absent from duty without leave or leaving a gathering abruptly without any intimation.

Explanation

The word fragile is used to describe an object that is easily broken, damaged, or shattered. In the context of the sentence, the instruction to handle the glass table with care is necessitated by the inherent physical property of glass being brittle and prone to breakage, making fragile the most appropriate adjective to describe the table.

Explanation

The term inaudible is formed by combining the prefix in-, meaning not, with the word audible, which is derived from the Latin verb audire, meaning to hear. Consequently, it describes any sound that is too faint, quiet, or at a frequency that cannot be detected or perceived by the human ear.

Explanation

Exodus is defined as a mass departure of people, typically involving a large-scale movement away from a particular place or region. The word signifies a collective leaving or exit. Arrival is the direct antonym because it refers to the act of reaching a destination or the process of appearing at a place, representing the opposite direction of movement compared to a departure.

Explanation

The sequence begins with sentence B, which introduces the main subject, Napoleon, and his specific objective of crossing the Alps during the winter season. Sentence A follows logically as it provides descriptive detail about the mountain range mentioned in the previous sentence, noting that it was covered with snow, which establishes the difficulty of the journey. Sentence D then uses the conjunction So to connect these harsh conditions to the reaction of others, where someone informed Napoleon that the task was impossible due to the snow and winter. The paragraph concludes with sentence C, which presents Napoleon's legendary response to that specific claim, asserting that the word impossible did not exist for him. This structure follows a clear narrative path from the introduction of a goal to the description of obstacles and finally to the resolution through the protagonist's dialogue.

Explanation

The sentence follows the standard rule for converting active voice with a modal verb into passive voice. When a sentence contains a modal such as could, the passive structure is formed using modal + be + past participle (V3). In this case, the active construction could understand is transformed into could be understood. The object of the active sentence, his theory, becomes the subject of the passive sentence, while the original subject, a child, follows the preposition by.

Explanation

The idiom pull a fast one means to successfully deceive, cheat, or play a trick on someone. It typically describes a situation where a person uses cleverness or speed to gain an unfair advantage before the other party realizes what is happening. The phrase is often used in contexts involving scams, dishonest deals, or pranks where the victim is caught off guard by the perpetrator's sudden or subtle deception.

Explanation

The word denied is the past participle of deny, which means to refuse to grant a request or to withhold access to something. In this context, the passive construction was denied indicates that the poor man was refused the privilege or right of entering the restaurant. Denied entry is a standard colocation used in English to describe situations where someone is prohibited from coming into a specific place.

Explanation

The word fickle is used to describe someone or something that changes frequently and suddenly, especially regarding loyalties, interests, or moods. It implies a lack of constancy and reliability. In contrast, the word stable refers to something that is steady, fixed, and not likely to change or fail. Since stable denotes a quality of being firm and consistent over time, it is the direct opposite of the erratic and unpredictable nature characterized by the word fickle.

Explanation

The error lies in the use of the preposition at in the phrase at a cup. In English, the correct idiomatic preposition to use when an activity occurs while eating or drinking something is over. The phrase should correctly be over a cup of coffee, which signifies that the discussion took place during the time the coffee was being consumed. The preposition at is typically used to denote a specific point or location and does not appropriately describe the relationship between the conversation and the beverage in this context.

Explanation

The sequence begins with sentence D, which introduces the general premise of people purchasing lotteries with the motivation of gaining quick wealth. Sentence A follows logically by identifying these lotteries as state-organized schemes that sell the concept of dreams. Sentence C then elaborates on the specific nature of these dreams by detailing the massive prizes, such as crores of rupees and gold, that are offered to participants. Finally, sentence B provides the conclusion, using the phrase lured by this to refer back to the prizes mentioned in C and describing the negative impact on the poor who waste their money.

Explanation

In English grammar, the verb relegate is idiomatically followed by the preposition to. To relegate something means to consign or dismiss it to an inferior rank, condition, or a state of being forgotten. In the context of the passage, the phrase relegated to oblivion indicates that the overwhelming fame of the Taj Mahal has caused other historical monuments in Agra to be pushed into a state of obscurity or neglect. The preposition to correctly establishes the relationship between the action of relegation and the resulting destination or state.

Explanation

The definite article the is used because the word town refers back to a specific location already mentioned at the beginning of the passage, which is Agra. In English grammar, the definite article is employed when the noun being referred to is specific or has been previously introduced in the context, making it clear to the reader which particular town is being discussed.

Explanation

The passage describes the architectural beauty and historical significance of various monuments in Agra. In the context of describing a structure like the Red Taj, which is a tomb modeled after the Taj Mahal, the word elegant is the most appropriate choice as it refers to a refined, graceful, and stylish appearance. Using this adjective emphasizes the aesthetic appeal and artistic quality of the monument, fitting the descriptive tone used for a marble marvel and a well-preserved historical site.

Explanation

The sentence follows a passive voice structure where the subject of the sentence, the tomb, is the receiver of the action. In English grammar, the passive voice is formed using a form of the verb be followed by the past participle of the main verb. The auxiliary verb was indicates a past tense passive construction, which must be followed by the past participle form of the verb build, which is built. This correctly attributes the construction of the monument to Ann Hessing in the historical context of 1803.

Explanation

The word Delegait is spelled incorrectly. The proper spelling is Delegate, which originates from the Latin word delegatus. In English, it serves as a noun denoting an authorized representative or as a verb meaning to assign responsibility or authority to another person. The correct suffix for this word is -ate, following standard phonetic and etymological patterns in English.

Explanation

The sequence starts with sentence C, which introduces the core topic by defining a tsunami as a series of very long waves. Sentence A follows logically because the pronoun These refers back to the waves defined in the first sentence, explaining their cause as undersea disturbances. Sentence B then describes the behavior of the waves Once generated, connecting directly to the generation process mentioned in A and explaining their outward travel. The paragraph concludes with sentence D, where the phrase Spreading thus provides a visual analogy for the outward movement described in B, comparing the waves to ripples in a pond.

Explanation

In the conversion of imperative sentences from direct to indirect speech, the reporting verb said to is replaced by a verb that conveys the intent of the speaker, such as advised, requested, or ordered. Since advising someone not to play in the sun is a piece of common advice, the verb advised is appropriate. For negative imperatives starting with Don't, the construction in indirect speech changes to not to followed by the base form of the main verb. Therefore, Don't play in the sun becomes not to play in the sun. The resulting structure follows the standard rule for reported commands or advice where the reporting verb is followed by an object and then a negative infinitive phrase.

Explanation

Disheartened describes a state of having lost determination, confidence, or spirit, typically following a disappointment or setback. The word depressed serves as an appropriate synonym because it characterizes a similar emotional state of being despondent, dejected, or in low spirits. Both terms convey a significant loss of hope or courage that leaves an individual feeling discouraged and emotionally weighed down.

Explanation

The verb stop is followed by a gerund when it indicates the cessation of an ongoing action. In this context, the students were already laughing and they ceased this activity the moment the teacher entered the room. Using the gerund laughing signifies that the action itself was stopped. Using the infinitive to laugh would instead imply that they paused another activity in order to start laughing, which contradicts the logical flow of the sentence. Since the event occurred in the past, the past tense stopped laughing is required to maintain grammatical consistency and correctly describe the termination of the laughter.

Explanation

The word congenital is derived from the Latin roots com, meaning together, and genitus, meaning born. It specifically refers to a condition, trait, or physical abnormality that is present in an individual from the time of birth. While frequently used in a medical context to describe diseases or defects existing since birth, it can also describe any innate quality or characteristic that a person has possessed since they were born.

Explanation

The verb applied is used because the preposition for following the blank typically collocates with apply when referring to the act of making a formal request for something, such as a position or a job. In the context of employment, to apply for a job means to formally request to be considered for a vacancy. Since the sentence is in the present perfect tense, the past participle form applied correctly completes the structure have you applied.

Explanation

The phrase is grammatically incorrect because the definite article the cannot be placed before the word both when it is used as a determiner. In English grammar, the quantifier both must either stand alone before the noun or precede the definite article if one is used. Therefore, the correct construction should be either Both children or Both the children. Placing the before both violates standard word order rules for pre-determiners, making the segment The both structurally flawed.

Explanation

The idiom see eye to eye is a common English expression used to indicate that two or more people have the same opinion or are in full agreement about a particular matter. It suggests a shared perspective or harmony in thought, implying that the individuals involved look at a situation in the same way. The phrase is often used in sentences to describe a state of consensus or mutual understanding between parties.

Explanation

The word cordial is an adjective used to describe a person or their behavior as being warm, friendly, and polite. It originates from the Latin word cordialis, meaning of or for the heart, which reflects a sense of genuine sincerity and kindness. In social interactions, a cordial atmosphere or reception implies a pleasant and welcoming environment, making warm the most appropriate synonym as it conveys the same sense of heartiness and affability.

Explanation

This sentence is a first conditional construction, which is used to express a possible condition and its probable result in the future. According to the rules of English grammar, the if-clause in a first conditional sentence should be in the simple present tense, while the main clause uses the simple future tense with will. Even though the condition refers to a future event, the use of will inside the if-clause is grammatically incorrect. Therefore, the simple present form they get married is required to correctly complement the main clause they will probably settle in Mumbai.

Explanation

The term accelerate is derived from the Latin word accelerare, meaning to hasten. In both scientific and general contexts, it specifically refers to the act of increasing the velocity or the rate of speed of an object or process. When an entity moves faster or a process happens more quickly, it is said to accelerate, making it the most precise one-word substitution for the phrase to increase the speed.

Explanation

Haste refers to the quality of acting with excessive speed, urgency, or hurry, often to the point of being rash or careless. Delay represents the opposite concept, as it involves slowing down, postponing, or causing a lag in time or movement. While haste emphasizes quickness and immediate action, delay focuses on pausing or hindering progress, making it the most appropriate antonym.

Explanation

When converting direct speech into indirect speech, if the reporting verb is in the past tense (said), the Simple Past tense (visited) in the reported speech changes to the Past Perfect tense (had visited). Additionally, the first-person plural pronoun We changes to the third-person plural pronoun they to maintain the correct perspective relative to the speaker. The comma and quotation marks are replaced by the conjunction that to connect the reporting verb with the reported statement.