SSC CGL Tier 1 2023 English Comprehension Questions with Solutions

Explanation

The sentence expresses a regret about a past event using the verb wish, which requires the past perfect tense in the subordinate clause. The past perfect tense is formed by using the auxiliary verb had or hadn't followed by the past participle (V3) form of the main verb. In the phrase hadn't went, the word went is the simple past (V2) form of the verb go. The correct past participle form of go is gone. Therefore, the verb went must be replaced with gone to satisfy the grammatical requirements of the past perfect construction.

Explanation

The word career refers to the period of time a person spends in a particular occupation or professional path. In this context, it describes the duration and progress of Kiran's professional life as a writer. The term is specifically used to denote the series of jobs or the overall professional journey one undertakes within a specific field of work.

Explanation

A mint is a primary producer or industrial facility authorized by a government to manufacture currency in the form of coins. These establishments are also responsible for the production of commemorative medals, tokens, and bullion for investment and collection purposes. The term historically originates from the Latin word moneta, which was associated with the temple of Juno Moneta in Rome where early coinage was produced. Modern mints utilize high-precision machinery to strike metal blanks with dies to create the specific designs and denominations required for a nation's economy.

Explanation

The idiom to bell the cat originates from an ancient fable about a group of mice who decide to hang a bell around a cat's neck to warn them of its approach. However, the plan fails because no mouse is willing to take on the dangerous task of actually approaching the cat. Consequently, the phrase refers to the act of taking the initiative to perform a difficult or dangerous task that others are afraid to do. It signifies facing a significant risk or hazard for the benefit of a group, despite the personal peril involved.

Explanation

An epilogue is a concluding speech or section delivered at the end of a literary work, particularly a play. It often involves an actor speaking directly to the audience to provide a summary, offer a final moral reflection, or provide closure to the plot. Derived from the Greek word epilogos, meaning a concluding word or speech, it serves as the final commentary that follows the main action of the drama.

Explanation

Incompetent refers to a lack of the necessary skill, ability, or knowledge required to perform a task successfully. It denotes being inept or unqualified for a particular role. Dexterous describes someone who is highly skilled, mentally adroit, or physically agile in performing tasks with precision. While incompetent signifies a deficiency in capability, dexterous signifies a high degree of proficiency and expertise, making it the direct opposite in meaning.

Explanation

A recluse is a person who voluntarily lives a solitary life and avoids the company of other people. This term is typically used to describe individuals who withdraw from society to live in seclusion, whether for religious, philosophical, or personal reasons. The word is derived from the Latin reclusus, meaning shut up or hidden away, which perfectly characterizes someone who chooses to exist in solitude.

Explanation

Sentence B serves as the introductory statement by establishing the primary subject, which is the worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha during Diwali. Sentence A follows by providing specific details about the qualities for which Lord Ganesha is worshipped. Sentence D then complements the previous statement by using the word also to explain why Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped, maintaining a logical flow in describing the two deities mentioned in the opening. The paragraph concludes with sentence C, which links the themes of wealth and success associated with the worship to the practical tradition of merchants starting new account books, thereby providing a comprehensive cultural context for the festival.

Explanation

In standard English grammar, a distinction is often made between the reciprocal pronouns each other and one another. While each other is typically used when referring to two people or entities, one another is preferred when referring to a group of more than two. The subject of the sentence, We all, implies a collective group larger than a pair. Therefore, one another is the most appropriate substitution to describe the reciprocal action within this larger group.

Explanation

The idiom apple-pie order describes a state of extreme neatness, perfect organization, or meticulous arrangement. It is used to signify that everything is in its correct place and handled with great care and precision. In the context of the sentence, the principal ensures the school is perfectly organized and tidy in preparation for the inspection, which is the exact definition of this expression.

Explanation

The idiom chewing the cud means to ponder, meditate, or think deeply about something for a long period. It is derived from the way ruminant animals like cows slowly and repeatedly chew food that has been regurgitated from their first stomach. In a figurative sense, it perfectly describes the mental process of reflecting on a situation or a decision over several days, which matches the context of Shelley contemplating whether or not to quit her job.

Explanation

In the context of theater and performing arts, a troupe refers to a group of actors, dancers, or entertainers who work together in a professional capacity. Since the sentence mentions stage plays, this term specifically identifies the collective group of performers organized for such theatrical productions.

Explanation

The phrase "We hardly knew nothing" contains a double negative error. The adverb "hardly" is a semi-negative word meaning "almost not" or "scarcely." In standard English grammar, two negative words cannot be used in the same clause to express a single negative idea. When a semi-negative adverb like "hardly," "barely," or "scarcely" is used, it must be followed by an affirmative indefinite pronoun such as "anything" rather than a negative one like "nothing." Therefore, the segment should correctly read "We hardly knew anything" to convey that the subjects had almost no knowledge about the manager.

Explanation

The sentence uses an inverted structure where the verb precedes the subject. In such constructions starting with adverbs like here or there, the verb must agree with the subject that follows it. The subject in this sentence is the bus, which is a singular noun. According to the rules of subject-verb agreement, a singular subject requires a singular verb. Therefore, the plural verb come is grammatically incorrect and should be replaced by the singular verb form comes.

Explanation

The original sentence is in the future perfect passive voice, structured as Subject (The growing population of India) + will have been + past participle (controlled) + by + Agent (the Indian government). To convert this into the active voice, the agent of the action becomes the grammatical subject, and the original subject becomes the direct object. The verb phrase shifts from will have been controlled to the future perfect active form will have controlled. Following this rule, the Indian government is placed at the start, followed by the future perfect verb will have controlled and the object the growing population of India, maintaining the original meaning and time frame.

Explanation

The term philanthropist is derived from the Greek roots philein, meaning to love, and anthropos, meaning mankind. It describes a person who actively promotes human welfare and social reform through the donation of funds, resources, or services. A philanthropist is driven by a deep-seated affection for humanity and a commitment to improving the quality of life for others, often focusing on large-scale charitable endeavors or supporting humanitarian causes.

Explanation

The word Allimony is spelled incorrectly. The correct spelling is Alimony, which contains only one l. It refers to the legal obligation of a person to provide financial support to their spouse before or after marital separation or divorce. The term is derived from the Latin word alimonia, meaning sustenance or nourishment.

Explanation

The word judicious describes an individual or an action characterized by good judgment, wisdom, and practicality. It implies that a decision has been made after careful consideration of all relevant factors to achieve the most effective or reasonable outcome. Sensible is the most appropriate synonym because it also refers to having or showing sound judgment and being grounded in reason and logic. Both terms are used to describe choices that are prudent and well-thought-out rather than impulsive or rash.

Explanation

The error lies in the use of the indefinite article An before the word lion. In English grammar, the article an is used exclusively before words that begin with a vowel sound. Since lion begins with the consonant sound /l/, it must be preceded by the article A. Alternatively, when referring to a species in a general sense, the definite article The is also appropriate, but the usage of An is grammatically incorrect in this context.

Explanation

The word route refers to a way or course of travel taken to get from a starting point to a destination. In the context of the sentence, the speaker is asking about the specific path or sequence of roads a person follows during their daily commute to their workplace. It is the standard term used to describe a trajectory or direction taken to reach a physical location.

Explanation

The word extol is a verb that means to praise someone or something enthusiastically or highly. It originates from the Latin word extollere, which translates to lift up or raise. In a contemporary context, it is used to describe the act of lauding, glorifying, or expressing intense admiration for the virtues or achievements of a person, idea, or object. Because the core meaning of extol is to express warm approval or commendation, the word praise serves as its direct synonym.

Explanation

A preface is a preliminary statement or introduction to a literary work written specifically by the author. It serves as an introductory section where the author provides explanatory remarks regarding the purpose, scope, and background of the book, often including acknowledgments and the circumstances that led to the writing of the text.

Explanation

To transform a sentence from active voice to passive voice, the object of the active sentence becomes the subject of the passive sentence. In the given sentence, the object is the victims of the violence. The verb treated is in the simple past tense, which in passive voice requires the auxiliary verb was or were followed by the past participle of the main verb. Since the new subject is plural, were treated is the correct verbal construction. The original subject, the doctor, is then introduced as the agent using the preposition by, and the adverbial phrase very carefully is retained to maintain the precise meaning of the original statement.

Explanation

The arrangement B-C-D-A creates a logically and grammatically coherent narrative by following the subject's physical position, his visual focus, and his mental state. Sentence S1 introduces the subject in a seat, which is spatially qualified by B (beside the bed) to establish the setting. The participle phrase in C (gazing sternly) describes the subject's primary action while seated, and D (at the patient's face) provides the necessary prepositional object for his gaze. This visual intensity is then complemented by his auditory state in A (hardly showing any signs of hearing), which functions as a modifier that seamlessly connects to the object of hearing provided in S6 (what they were saying to him). The resulting sequence moves systematically from the physical location to a specific action and finally to the subject's lack of reaction to his surroundings.

Explanation

A recession is a period of significant economic decline characterized by a reduction in trade and industrial activity. During such times, consumer spending drops and businesses face severe financial pressure, which frequently leads to insolvency and mass bankruptcies as firms become unable to meet their debt obligations or sustain operations.

Explanation

In the context of environmental science and climate change, emission refers to the release of pollutants or greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The passage discusses the drivers of climate change, specifically how the discharge of heat-trapping gases like carbon dioxide and methane from human activities leads to the greenhouse effect. Since these gases are released from sources such as industrial processes and fossil fuel combustion, emission is the standard technical term used to describe their accumulation in the atmosphere.

Explanation

The context of the passage focuses on the disruptive effects of climate change, such as shrinking glaciers and shifting plant blooming times. These phenomena represent deviations from the stable, natural state of the environment. In ecological terms, when the equilibrium of a system is disrupted by such external pressures, it results in an imbalance. This term accurately describes the lack of proportion and the loss of stability within the natural ecosystem caused by anthropogenic global warming.

Explanation

The sentence discusses the large-scale social impact of rising sea levels and saltwater intrusion, which render specific geographical areas uninhabitable. In environmental and sociological contexts, the term communities refers to organized groups of people living in the same locality who share common infrastructure, social ties, and a collective identity. When environmental degradation forces an entire population of a village, town, or island to move, it is described as the relocation of a community. This word accurately captures the collective nature of the displacement mentioned in the passage, specifically referring to the people and their social structures being moved as a single entity due to climate-driven factors.

Explanation

The context of the sentence focuses on the dire consequences of protracted droughts caused by climate change. In environmental and social sciences, extended periods of drought lead to widespread crop failure and the exhaustion of water supplies. This collapse of the agricultural system results in a severe shortage of food, leading to famine among the affected populations. Famine is the logical outcome of long-term water scarcity and the resulting inability to sustain life through local food production.

Explanation

The idiom a hard nut to crack refers to a problem, situation, or person that is very difficult to deal with, understand, or solve. In the context of the sentence, the police's inability to solve the case indicates that the investigation is complex and challenging, making this idiom the most appropriate choice to describe the situation.

Explanation

The term irreversible characterizes the permanent nature of many climate-driven changes, such as the melting of polar ice sheets and the loss of biodiversity, which cannot be undone on human timescales once they occur. In the context of the passage, which discusses the long-term escalation of global warming and the relocation of entire communities, the word reflects the scientific reality that the damage already inflicted upon the environment will persist for centuries or millennia, even if emissions were to stop immediately. This aligns with the subsequent clause stating that these conditions will continue to worsen as greenhouse gases accumulate, emphasizing a trajectory that lacks a point of return to previous climatic norms.

Explanation

The word staunch is used to describe someone who is firm, loyal, and steadfast in their support or beliefs. It implies a high degree of reliability and unwavering commitment. The word unsteady serves as its antonym because it refers to something that is not firm, likely to change, or wavering in its position or loyalty. While a staunch ally is dependable and fixed, an unsteady one is unreliable and inconsistent.

Explanation

The word implementation is the correct noun form derived from the verb implement. It is spelled with the letter e following both the l and the m, resulting in the sequence i-m-p-l-e-m-e-n-t-a-t-i-o-n. The term originates from the Latin root implere, meaning to fill up or fulfill, and uses the suffix -ation to denote the process or act of carrying out a plan, policy, or system. In the context of the sentence, it refers to the actual execution of the students policies. Since the root word is implement, the spelling must retain the e in both syllables of the stem before adding the nominalizing suffix.

Explanation

The word abound means to exist in great numbers or quantities, or to be filled with something in large amounts. Flourish serves as an appropriate synonym because it describes the state of growing, developing, or being present in a vigorous and prolific manner. Both terms convey a sense of abundance and thriving presence within a specific environment or context.

Explanation

An apostate is an individual who formally renounces or abandons a religious faith, belief system, or political principle. The term is derived from the Greek word apostasia, which means defection or revolt. In a religious context, it specifically refers to the act of falling away or the total desertion of one's former religion. This term identifies the specific action of leaving a faith that was previously held, regardless of whether the person joins a different religion or chooses to remain secular.

Explanation

In the context of the sentence, the word challenges refers to difficult situations or problems that require great effort to overcome. Global warming is a major issue currently confronting the planet, and the phrase facing the world indicates a struggle or a hurdle that humanity must address. The term challenges is a standard collocation used to describe large-scale environmental crises that demand global solutions and strategic action.

Explanation

In the context of environmental science and global warming, emission refers to the process of releasing or discharging substances, particularly gases like carbon dioxide and methane, into the Earth's atmosphere. The passage identifies the primary cause of global warming as the accumulation of these gases, which originate from human activities such as burning fossil fuels and industrial processes. Because these gases are being sent out into the air where they subsequently trap heat, the noun emission is the most linguistically and scientifically accurate term to describe their entry into the atmosphere.

Explanation

The sentence is in the simple present tense. In passive voice, the simple present interrogative form (Does + subject + verb) changes to (Is/Am/Are + object + past participle), making "Is the lesson prepared by her?" the correct transformation.

Explanation

The paragraph begins with sentence B, which establishes the central theme by stating that companies play a significant role in modern society. Sentence D provides specific context to this importance, explaining that the scale of some corporations allows their decisions to directly affect government policy and the lives of citizens. Sentence C builds on this idea of influence, asserting that because of their systemic relevance and policy impact, companies have a responsibility to act in the interest of the public good. Sentence A concludes the sequence by using the additive transition And also to introduce another facet of their societal role, which is contributing to the development of social and environmental solutions for the future of the planet.

Explanation

The idiom play it by ear or do something by ear refers to the act of performing a task or handling a situation without a fixed plan or set of instructions. It originates from the musical practice of playing a piece of music by hearing it rather than reading a score. In the context of travel and activities, it signifies making decisions spontaneously as events unfold. Because the speaker traveled without an itinerary, they relied on improvisation to determine their plans and actions throughout the trip.

Explanation

Jubilant means expressing great happiness and triumph, while melancholic means feeling or expressing deep sadness. Therefore, melancholic is the most suitable opposite among the provided options.

Explanation

The sentence lists detrimental consequences such as more frequent and severe weather events, rising sea levels, and the loss of biodiversity. Since these impacts are harmful to the environment and ecosystems, the adjective negative is the most appropriate choice to characterize these adverse effects. The passage describes a destructive process, making a word that denotes harm or unfavorable outcomes the logically correct fit for the blank.

Explanation

Decoding is the process of converting a coded or secret message back into a readable and intelligible format. In contrast, encrypting and encoding refer to the process of putting a message into a secret or specific code.

Explanation

The word modal in the sentence is contextually incorrect and serves as a misspelling of the intended term model in the idiom role model. While modal is a valid word in grammar and music, model is the correct spelling for a person who serves as an example for others.

Explanation

The word successful is the correct spelling of the adjective derived from the noun success. It follows the standard English spelling rule where the root word success, which contains a double c and a double s, is combined with the suffix -ful. While the word full has two ls, the suffix -ful used to form adjectives from nouns always ends in a single l. Therefore, the correct construction requires the double consonants in the middle and a single l at the end.

Explanation

The word grow denotes the process of increasing in size, volume, or physical extent through natural development or expansion. Conversely, shrink refers to the process of becoming smaller in size or amount, often through contraction or reduction. Therefore, shrink serves as the direct linguistic opposite of grow in terms of physical or quantitative change.

Explanation

The word snug refers to a state of being comfortable, warm, and cozy, particularly within a well-protected or confined space. It encompasses the idea of having a secure shelter that provides both physical ease and a sense of mental contentment. This term is frequently used to describe small, tight-fitting environments that offer a feeling of safety and relaxation, perfectly matching the description of enjoying warm, secure cover and opportunity for ease.

Explanation

The word magnanimous is derived from the Latin roots magnus, meaning great, and animus, meaning mind or soul. It describes an individual who possesses a noble and courageous spirit, characterized by a willingness to be kind, generous, and forgiving, especially toward a rival or someone less powerful. A magnanimous person rises above pettiness and resentment, showing great-heartedness in their dealings with others.

Explanation

The use of the phrase the same as a pronoun to refer back to a previously mentioned noun is grammatically incorrect in standard English. In this sentence, the phrase is intended to refer to the plural noun the dishes. Instead of using the same, the appropriate personal pronoun them should be used to maintain grammatical correctness and clarity. While the same is sometimes used as a pronoun in legal or formal administrative contexts, it is considered poor style and incorrect in general usage. The correct structure of the sentence should be You wash the dishes and I dry them.

Explanation

The sentence is grammatically correct because it adheres to the rules governing indefinite articles and idiomatic phrasing. The expression as a nation correctly identifies India's status as a singular entity. Furthermore, the choice of the article before united depends on the phonetic sound rather than the starting letter. Although united begins with the vowel u, it is pronounced with the consonant sound /j/ as in yellow. Therefore, the indefinite article a is the correct usage before united country. The phrasing and modal verb usage in the latter half of the sentence also follow standard English syntax for expressing a persistent future condition.