SSC CGL Tier 1 2023 English Comprehension Questions with Solutions

Explanation

The sentence uses the time reference in my childhood, which denotes a completed period in the past. In English grammar, actions that took place and were completed in the past must be expressed using the Simple Past tense. The verb play is in the Simple Present tense, which is used for habitual actions or general truths in the present. To make the sentence grammatically correct, the verb should be changed to its past tense form, played, to align with the historical context of the speaker's childhood.

Explanation

The word announced refers to the formal act of making something known publicly or officially. Declared is its most appropriate synonym as it also means to state something in a solemn, emphatic, or formal manner. Both terms are frequently used in administrative, legal, and public contexts to signify that a specific piece of information, such as a result or a policy, has been explicitly communicated to an audience.

Explanation

The word crooked refers to something that is not straight, often characterized by being bent, curved, or angled. Similarly, twisted describes an object that has been turned or forced out of its natural shape, resulting in a winding or contorted form. Both terms are synonymous when used to describe a physical lack of linearity or a distorted appearance.

Explanation

Sentence C provides the logical starting point by introducing and defining the subject, Science Fiction, as a genre based on scientific premises. Sentence D follows by elaborating on the genre's connection to our existence, stating that it is deeply seeped into the reality of this world. Sentence A builds on this by explaining the dual nature of the narrative, where the reader recognizes familiar realities while simultaneously encountering elements that are estranged from them. Finally, sentence B concludes the paragraph by using the transition word therefore to introduce the formal concept of cognitive estrangement, which is the direct theoretical result of the interaction between reality and estrangement described in the previous sentence.

Explanation

The word rein refers to a long strap, usually attached to a bit and held by a rider or driver, used to control a horse or other animal. In the context of the sentence, it describes a physical object that the Princess can firmly hold in her hands to maintain control while riding.

Explanation

The error lies in the use of the definite article "The" before the plural noun "historians". In this sentence, the reference is to the entire professional class of historians in a general sense rather than a specific, previously identified group. According to English grammatical rules, when plural countable nouns are used to make general statements or to represent a whole category, the zero article is used. The sentence should begin simply with "Historians" to correctly convey that the profession as a whole constitutes a great asset to the field of academia.

Explanation

A pact is a formal agreement, treaty, or covenant between two or more parties, such as individuals, groups, or nations. It typically involves a binding commitment to perform specific actions or adhere to certain terms, such as mutual defense, trade cooperation, or non-aggression. In the context of international relations and diplomacy, the term is specifically used to denote a solemn arrangement that establishes official obligations between sovereign states or distinct peoples.

Explanation

The sentence The newspaper was read by me is in the passive voice of the simple past tense, following the structure Object + was/were + V₃ + by + Subject. To convert it into the active voice, the object of the preposition (me) becomes the active subject (I), and the subject of the passive sentence (the newspaper) becomes the direct object. The active voice for the simple past tense uses the V₂ form of the verb. Since the second form of the verb read is also read, the resulting active voice sentence is I read the newspaper.

Explanation

The word concerted refers to an action or effort that is jointly arranged, coordinated, or performed by multiple parties working in unison towards a common objective. In the context of the sentence, it describes a unified strategy adopted by major international organizations to ensure a thorough and integrated evaluation process. Because this approach brings together all necessary stakeholders and resources into a single, unified effort, the word complete serves as a synonym to describe the exhaustive and combined nature of the assessment process.

Explanation

This sentence follows the structure of a type 1 conditional, which expresses a real possibility in the future based on a specific condition. In such constructions, the if-clause uses the simple present tense (is no water logging), while the main clause typically uses the simple future tense (will + verb). Since mosquitoes biologically require stagnant water to lay their eggs and complete their life cycle, the absence of water logging prevents their reproduction. The use of will not breed correctly reflects both the grammatical requirement for the future tense in the result clause and the logical outcome of the stated condition.

Explanation

The sentence requires the use of a to-infinitive to express the purpose or intention of the action. In English grammar, the to-infinitive is constructed using the preposition to followed by the base form of the verb. The phrasal verb iron out is an idiomatic expression that means to resolve, settle, or eliminate problems or differences through discussion. By using the base form iron after the particle to, the phrase correctly establishes the goal of the delegates' meeting at the conference.

Explanation

The word dangerous refers to something that involves the possibility of harm, injury, or loss. In the provided sentence, the word risky is used to describe the nature of driving without seat belts, indicating that such an action is hazardous and carries a high probability of negative consequences. Both dangerous and risky share the same core meaning of being full of peril or uncertainty regarding safety, making them appropriate synonyms in this context.

Explanation

The idiomatic expression weather the storm originates from maritime language, where it describes a ship successfully surviving a gale or a violent storm at sea. Figuratively, it refers to the ability of an individual or an organization to successfully endure and survive a period of intense difficulty, crisis, or hardship without suffering permanent damage or failure. In the provided context, it signifies that stable, blue-chip companies are expected to remain financially sound and resilient despite volatile or unfavorable market conditions.

Explanation

In scientific and astronomical terminology, any physical entity—whether natural like the moon or man-made like a rocket-launched craft—that orbits a larger celestial body is referred to as an object. The term object provides the necessary breadth to include both natural and artificial satellites described in the passage. It specifically identifies a distinct physical entity defined by its mass and motion within a gravitational field, which aligns with the technical explanation of orbital mechanics provided in the subsequent paragraphs.

Explanation

In the context of space exploration and technology, the term launched is the standard and formally appropriate verb used to describe the process of sending a satellite, rocket, or spacecraft into orbit or outer space. It specifically refers to the act of propelling an object from the Earth's surface using a delivery vehicle, such as a rocket, to achieve the necessary velocity to overcome gravity. The passage itself reinforces this choice by using the term launched in the very next sentence and in the second paragraph when explaining how satellites are started, ensuring linguistic consistency throughout the text.

Explanation

The passage describes the scientific phenomenon of how a satellite maintains a stable orbit through the balance of gravitational pull and inertial motion. In physics, a satellite is essentially in a state of continuous motion where it is constantly being accelerated toward the center of the Earth by gravity while its forward velocity keeps it on a curved path. The word move is the most appropriate choice to characterize this physical displacement and the steady progression of the satellite along its orbital trajectory. It captures the dynamic action of the object as it navigates the space above the Earth's surface under the influence of balanced forces.

Explanation

Communication satellites function as active relay stations in space. Their primary role involves receiving electromagnetic signals from ground-based transmitters, amplifying these signals to compensate for power loss during travel, and then transmitting or sending them back to Earth. In the context of telecommunications, waves are propagated through space, and the term send is the standard descriptor for the process of directing these processed signals toward receiving stations on the surface or to other satellites.

Explanation

In the context of information technology and data management, to access means to retrieve or gain entry to data or information. Scientists utilize ground stations and computer networks to retrieve and utilize the vast amounts of scientific information collected and transmitted by satellites. The verb access correctly fits the grammatical structure of the sentence as it functions as the direct action performed by the scientists on the object scientific data. This process is essential for analyzing observations related to environmental monitoring, space exploration, and other scientific research fields facilitated by satellite technology.

Explanation

The original sentence is in the simple past tense, as indicated by the verb called up. To convert a sentence from active voice to passive voice in the simple past tense, the object of the active sentence becomes the subject, followed by the auxiliary verb was or were depending on the number of the new subject, then the past participle form of the main verb, and finally the agent preceded by by. In this case, the object his best friend is singular, so it is followed by was called up. The structure follows the rule: Object + was/were + V3 + by + Subject. This results in the passive construction his best friend was called up by the little boy on his birthday.

Explanation

The paragraph begins with sentence C, which introduces the specific literary work Shakespeare's Sister and its author, Virginia Woolf, while setting the historical context of 15th and 16th-century England. Sentence A follows by defining the nature of Woolf's analysis and the broad theme of discrimination against women. Sentences D and B then elaborate on the specific aspects of this discrimination. Sentence D identifies the denial of education and physical violence as primary concerns. Finally, sentence B uses the transition also to add further dimensions to these concerns, specifically the lack of freedom of expression and the violation of human dignity and equality. This sequence moves logically from a general introduction to a detailed thematic breakdown.

Explanation

This sentence correctly employs the definite article the to identify specific nouns within a narrative context. The warrior, the right time, the lion, and the cave all refer to particular entities known to the speaker or reader in this scenario. Grammatically, the use of the indefinite article an is restricted to words beginning with a vowel sound. Since warrior, right, and lion all begin with consonant sounds, using the before them is both phonetically and structurally correct. The sentence maintains a consistent level of specificity and follows standard English rules for article-noun agreement and prepositional usage.

Explanation

The word enervated originates from the Latin term enervatus, which literally translates to depriving of force or weakening the sinews. In modern usage, it means to drain someone of their physical or mental energy, vitality, or strength. Within the context of the sentence, the intense heat of the sun acted as a debilitating force that exhausted the laborer, causing a total loss of physical power that resulted in his collapse. Consequently, weaken is the most appropriate synonym because it accurately describes the reduction of strength and energy levels mentioned in the scenario.

Explanation

Sentence B introduces the central theme of the paragraph, which is the author's instinctive impulse to harness the energies of nature. Sentence D follows by specifying the method used to achieve this goal, identifying May-bugs as the medium for the experiment. Sentence A provides the mechanical details of the invention, explaining how the author attached the bugs to a crosspiece and spindle to derive power. Sentence C concludes the paragraph by describing the remarkable efficiency and tireless behavior of these creatures once the device was in operation. This sequence moves logically from the initial concept to the choice of medium, the mechanical construction, and finally the observation of the results.

Explanation

A misanthrope is an individual who harbors a general dislike, distrust, or hatred of the human species or human nature. The term originates from the Greek words misein, meaning to hate, and anthropos, meaning man or human being. Such a person often avoids social interaction and prefers isolation due to their negative or cynical outlook on humanity as a whole.

Explanation

The word shuttle refers to the action of moving or traveling back and forth regularly over a short distance or a specific route. This term is commonly applied to transportation systems like buses, trains, or spacecraft designed for repetitive trips between two locations, mirroring the motion of a weaver's shuttle moving across a loom.

Explanation

The word complaint refers to an expression of dissatisfaction, grievance, or criticism regarding something that is considered unsatisfactory or unacceptable. In the context of the sentence, it signifies a negative report about the gardener's behavior. The word praise acts as the most appropriate antonym because it means to express warm approval, admiration, or commendation. While a complaint focuses on faults and shortcomings, praise focuses on merits and positive actions, representing the opposite side of evaluative feedback.

Explanation

The modal verb can must be followed by the base form of a main verb rather than an adjective. In the given sentence, dependent is an adjective, which is grammatically incorrect in this syntactic position. The correct verb form is depend. Additionally, the verb depend idiomaticly requires the preposition on or upon to express reliance or trust. Therefore, the phrase depend on me correctly provides the necessary bare infinitive and the appropriate prepositional pairing to complete the sentence.

Explanation

The word adventurous refers to a person who is willing to take risks and explore new, often challenging or unconventional, ideas and experiences. It describes a spirit of daring and a readiness to engage in activities that involve uncertainty or potential danger for the sake of discovery, excitement, or innovation.

Explanation

Exuberance refers to the quality of being full of energy, excitement, and cheerfulness. It describes a state of high spirits and overflowing vitality. Vibrancy is a synonym that captures this same sense of being strikingly bright, energetic, and full of life, making it the most suitable match for the given word.

Explanation

The sentence Rakesh will win the lottery is in the future simple tense. To convert a sentence in the future simple tense from active voice to passive voice, the formula is Subject + will + be + past participle (V3) + by + Object. Here, the object of the active sentence (the lottery) becomes the subject of the passive sentence, followed by the auxiliary will be and the past participle of win, which is won. Therefore, the passive form is The lottery will be won by Rakesh.

Explanation

The paragraph follows a logical narrative sequence beginning with sentence C, which introduces the primary subject, Arjuna, and establishes his context within the Indian epic Mahabharata. Sentence D provides supplementary biographical details about Arjuna, specifically his divine parentage and his renown as an archer, building on the initial introduction. Sentence B then transitions to a specific event in the narrative, focusing on Arjuna's moral dilemma on the battlefield and the subsequent discourse initiated by Lord Krishna. Sentence A serves as the conclusion by naming the specific collection of verses resulting from that discourse as the Bhagavadgita, directly linked to the conversation described in the preceding sentence.

Explanation

The word Statinary is incorrectly spelt. The correct spelling is either Stationary, which means not moving or fixed in one place, or Stationery, which refers to writing materials such as paper and envelopes. In both instances, the word requires the suffix -onary or -onery following the root station, making the version provided in the option orthographically incorrect due to the omission of the letter o.

Explanation

The original sentence uses the simple past tense verb denied. To convert a sentence from active to passive voice in the simple past, the structure follows the rule: Subject (the original object) + was/were + past participle (V3) + by + Agent (the original subject). Since his simple request is a singular subject, the auxiliary verb was is used along with the past participle form denied. This yields the passive construction his simple request was denied by authorities.

Explanation

The phrasal verb passed down means to transfer or transmit information, traditions, or possessions from one person to another, often sequentially. In the given sentence, it appropriately describes the movement of details from one individual to the next in a rapid manner.

Explanation

To convert an interrogative sentence starting with Who from active to passive voice, the word Who is replaced by By whom at the beginning of the sentence. The sentence is in the simple past tense, as indicated by the verb stole. In the passive voice, the simple past tense requires the auxiliary verb was or were followed by the past participle of the main verb. Since the object my tickets is plural, the auxiliary verb were must be used to maintain subject-verb agreement. The standard structure for a passive question in the simple past is By whom + auxiliary verb + object + past participle. Following this grammatical rule, the passive form of the sentence is By whom were my tickets stolen?

Explanation

The word quiet is an adjective used to describe a state of silence or a lack of noise. In this sentence, it functions as a subject complement following the linking verb was to describe the condition or atmosphere of the room. This usage is grammatically correct as it provides a descriptive quality to the noun phrase the room.

Explanation

The idiom to speak one's mind means to express one's thoughts, feelings, or opinions frankly and directly. It is typically used to describe someone who is honest and straightforward about their views, often to the point of being blunt or undiplomatic. In the context of the sentence, using this idiom accurately conveys that Harry says exactly what he is thinking without filtering his words for social convenience.

Explanation

The idiom pass the buck means to shift the responsibility or blame for a task or a mistake onto someone else to avoid dealing with it oneself. This expression originated in the 19th-century American poker games, where a knife with a buckhorn handle, known as a buck, was used as a marker to indicate whose turn it was to deal. If a player did not wish to take on the responsibility of dealing, they would pass the buck to the next player. In modern usage, it describes a situation where an individual or organization avoids accountability by claiming that another party is responsible for a problem or decision.

Explanation

Camouflage refers to the act of concealing or disguising the presence of something to make it blend in with its surroundings and remain hidden. In the given sentence, the lizard's skin helps it stay inconspicuous against the desert sand. The word reveal means to make something visible or known that was previously hidden, disguised, or secret. Consequently, reveal is the direct antonym as it describes the process of exposing something to view, which is the exact opposite of the concealment intended by camouflage.

Explanation

The word retaliation refers to the act of returning an injury or wrong, often described as returning like for like or paying someone back in kind for a perceived harm. It originates from the Latin word retaliare, which means to requite or repay in the same manner. In the context of the sentence, it signifies the act of seeking vengeance or getting even after being wronged. Revenge is a direct synonym as it involves the action of inflicting hurt or harm on someone for an injury or grievance suffered at their hands.

Explanation

Sentence D is the introductory statement as it introduces the main topic, which is the current trend of herbal medicines. Sentence A follows D because the phrase these medicines is a demonstrative reference to the herbal medicines established in the first sentence, while also introducing the concept of safe healing. Sentence B specifically defines the term safe healing mentioned at the end of sentence A, explaining that it refers to a lack of side effects. Sentence C serves as the concluding statement by linking the benefit of healing without unwanted effects back to the trend mentioned in the opening sentence, completing the logical flow of the paragraph.

Explanation

The verb consists is the grammatically appropriate choice because it is conventionally followed by the preposition of to describe the components or parts that make up a whole. In the context of the sentence, it correctly indicates that the structure of the human psyche is composed of three distinct elements: the ego, the super ego, and the id. Since the subject structure is singular, the singular verb form consists provides the necessary subject-verb agreement to complete the thought logically and syntactically.

Explanation

In the context of Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory, the ego is described as the component of the psyche that is most closely associated with the conscious mind and reality. The term aware is the most appropriate fit for the blank because the conscious mind involves the thoughts, feelings, and perceptions that a person is currently cognizant of. Furthermore, the adjective aware is idiomatically followed by the preposition of, creating the standard phrase aware of to indicate a state of consciousness or knowledge regarding one's own mental processes.

Explanation

The phrase works on the basis of is a standard idiomatic expression used to indicate the foundation or underlying principle according to which something functions. In Freudian psychoanalytic theory, the super-ego is the component of personality that internalizes societal standards, moral values, and cultural norms learned from parents and the environment. Because the super-ego operates as a moral conscience by applying these internalized rules to one's behavior, it is described as working on the basis of social and cultural influences.

Explanation

In Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory, the id is the primitive and instinctive part of the mind that contains sexual and aggressive drives as well as hidden memories. According to Freud, the id serves as a reservoir for repressed thoughts and desires—those impulses, traumatic memories, or forbidden wishes that the conscious mind has pushed away because they are socially unacceptable or psychologically distressing. These contents remain in the subconscious and often manifest through dreams or slips of the tongue, as the id operates entirely on the pleasure principle without regard for logic or social norms.

Explanation

The word curtail means to reduce, diminish, or cut back on the extent or quantity of something. In the context of expenditures, it signifies a reduction in spending. An antonym must represent the opposite action, which is to make something larger or greater in amount. Increase is the most appropriate antonym because it denotes the process of becoming greater in size, intensity, or degree, which directly opposes the meaning of reduction or curtailment.

Explanation

In the context of Sigmund Freud's psychoanalytic theory, the unconscious or id is often characterized by irrational and surreal content. Dreams, which Freud described as the royal road to the unconscious, frequently present imagery that defies the logic of the waking world. The term bizarre accurately describes these strange or unusual scenes that seem disconnected from the individual's conscious experience or reality. Since the passage specifically mentions that these images apparently have no relation to anything related to the person, they are best described as being odd, fantastical, or strikingly out of the ordinary.

Explanation

The word insidious refers to something that proceeds in a gradual, subtle way but results in very negative or damaging consequences. It describes an influence, disease, or person that is treacherous and develops slowly to cause significant injury or destruction before being noticed. Therefore, harmful is the most appropriate synonym as it directly reflects the destructive and dangerous nature of the word.

Explanation

The word spurious refers to something that is not genuine, authentic, or true. In the context of a painting, it signifies a forgery or a counterfeit item that is intended to deceive. The term authentic is the direct opposite, as it describes something that is of undisputed origin, genuine, and original. Since the sentence discusses a fake artwork, the word that represents its true and real counterpart is authentic.

Explanation

The verb adapt means to modify oneself or adjust to new conditions, environments, or situations. In biological contexts, it specifically refers to the evolutionary or behavioral process by which an organism becomes better suited to its habitat. Since the sentence describes the physical and functional adjustment required for a frog to survive in both water and on land, the phrase adapts itself is the grammatically and contextually accurate choice to express this self-adjustment to varying environmental demands.