SSC CGL Tier 1 2023 English Comprehension Questions with Solutions

Explanation

Vacillate is the precise term meaning to waver between different opinions or actions or to be indecisive. Sway primarily means to move physically back and forth or to influence someone, while thrifty refers to being frugal and a viaduct is a type of bridge.

Explanation

A pessimist is defined as a person who habitually sees or anticipates the worst possible outcome in any situation. Such an individual focuses on the negative, gloomy, or unfavorable aspects of life rather than the positive ones. The term originates from the Latin word pessimus, meaning worst, reflecting the mindset of expecting the worst possible results or viewing circumstances in a discouraging light.

Explanation

The idiom to take the bull by the horns signifies facing a difficult, dangerous, or intimidating situation directly and with great courage. Instead of avoiding a problem or dealing with it in a roundabout way, a person who takes the bull by the horns confronts the challenge head-on to gain control of the circumstances. This expression likely originates from the physical act of wrestling or controlling a bull, where grabbing the animal by its horns is the most direct, albeit risky, method to manage its strength and movement. It reflects a proactive and decisive attitude toward problem-solving.

Explanation

The word sluggish means slow-moving, inactive, or lacking energy, especially in the context of movement. Its most appropriate antonym among the options is active, which refers to being energetic or moving with speed.

Explanation

The correlative conjunction neither is always paired with nor in English grammar. Therefore, nor rebuilding is the correct substitution to complete the neither...nor structure.

Explanation

Temerity means excessive confidence or audacity, which is a direct synonym of impudence. The other options refer to boredom (tedious), reserved speech (taciturn), or incisive style (trenchant).

Explanation

The word challenge is the most appropriate fit for the context, as the passage identifies climate change as a pressing issue that requires urgent action and global effort. Options like advantage or solution are logically incorrect, while aspect does not convey the difficulty and urgency described.

Explanation

The context of the sentence lists negative effects like rising temperatures and melting ice caps, which are best described as consequences of climate change. Options like advancements or improvements are logically incorrect as they imply positive progress.

Explanation

The sentence discusses the skepticism some individuals hold regarding the existence and factual nature of climate change. Given the preceding context which lists physical evidence such as rising temperatures and melting ice caps, the passage establishes that climate change is a tangible and scientifically verified phenomenon. The term reality refers to the state of things as they actually exist rather than being imagined or theoretical. Therefore, it is the most appropriate word to describe the factual status of climate change that skeptics question despite the consensus among scientists.

Explanation

The sentence structure uses the present perfect tense, indicated by the auxiliary verb have followed by the adverb already. This construction requires a past participle to complete the verbal phrase. The verb occurred is the past participle of occur, which means to happen or take place. In the context of climate change, the passage discusses the necessity of adapting to environmental shifts and physical transformations that have already taken place or manifested in the real world. This aligns with the scientific reality that certain impacts of global warming are already in effect and require adaptive measures alongside emission reductions.

Explanation

The word optimistic refers to a disposition characterized by hopefulness, confidence, and a positive outlook regarding future events. Its antonym must represent the opposite quality, such as being despondent, dark, or pessimistic. In the given sentence, the word gloomy describes days or situations that are dark, depressing, or lacking in hope, directly contradicting the essence of optimism. Thus, gloomy is the most appropriate antonym as it signifies a state of sadness or despair rather than hope and positivity.

Explanation

The context of the sentence indicates that climate change requires a collective action involving multiple parties, namely individuals, governments, and businesses. Joint describes an effort made by two or more people or groups working together, which perfectly fits this meaning.

Explanation

The error lies in the phrase after knowing truth because it lacks the definite article the before the noun truth. In English grammar, truth is a noun that generally requires the definite article when it refers to the specific facts or reality of a particular situation, such as a legal case. The expression know the truth is a standard idiomatic structure where the is used to specify the particular truth being sought or discovered. Therefore, the segment should correctly read as after knowing the truth to be grammatically accurate.

Explanation

The term anarchist is derived from the Greek word anarchos, which translates to without a ruler. It describes an individual who advocates for the abolition of all forms of government and organized authority, believing that such institutions are unnecessary or harmful to human freedom and social cooperation. Anarchism as a political philosophy promotes a society based on voluntary cooperation and the absence of hierarchical power structures.

Explanation

The idiom miss the boat signifies failing to take advantage of a favorable opportunity because one has been too slow to act. It conveys the idea that a specific window of time to achieve a goal or secure a benefit has passed, leaving the person unable to participate or succeed in that particular endeavor. This figurative expression draws a parallel to a traveler arriving at a dock after a ship has already departed, thereby losing the chance to make the journey. In common usage, it emphasizes the loss of a valuable prospect or opening due to hesitation or delay.

Explanation

Sentence B serves as the logical opening statement by introducing the primary subject, which is the inevitable economic growth of underdeveloped countries regardless of external assistance. Sentence D follows B by using the demonstrative phrase that development to refer directly back to the economic promotion mentioned in the first sentence, while the transition word however explains how aid influences the specific nature of that growth. Sentence A builds on this relationship by stating that the overall outcome is more likely to be favourable when substantial aid is present. Sentence C concludes the sequence by providing a specific definition of the term substantial aid mentioned in the previous sentences, clarifying that it encompasses both technical assistance and capital.

Explanation

The definite article the is used before nouns that refer to unique objects or specific systems well known to the speaker and listener. In this context, Solar System refers to our specific planetary system centered around the Sun. Because it is a unique astronomical entity, the definite article is required to specify it correctly in English grammar.

Explanation

The sentence discusses the significance of the Sun in relation to mythology and religion. Mythology and religion are core components of human societies, encompassing their shared beliefs, customs, and social behaviors. The term cultures refers to the collective ideas and ways of life of different groups of people across the globe. Therefore, the phrase cultures around the world accurately reflects the historical and social context in which solar mythology and religious practices have developed and persisted.

Explanation

The word immerse means to involve oneself deeply in a particular activity or interest, or to submerge something completely in a liquid. In a figurative sense, when someone is immersed in a task or a project, they are thoroughly engaged or occupied by it. Similarly, the word involve means to include or engage someone deeply in a situation or activity. Therefore, involve serves as the most appropriate synonym as both terms describe a state of being deeply absorbed or connected to a specific matter.

Explanation

The word docil in the sentence is an incorrect spelling of the adjective docile. This term is used to describe an animal or person that is submissive, manageable, or ready to accept instruction. It originates from the Latin word docilis, meaning easily taught, and requires the terminal e in English to be orthographically correct. Applying this correction ensures the sentence accurately reflects the calm and compliant nature typically associated with Labradors.

Explanation

In a sentence describing two sequential actions in the past, the earlier action is expressed using the Past Perfect tense (had + past participle), while the subsequent action must be expressed in the Simple Past tense. Since the first part of the sentence uses "had gone" to indicate a completed past action, the second action must also be in the past to maintain tense consistency. Therefore, the present tense verb "go" is grammatically incorrect and should be replaced with the simple past form "went" to properly reflect the chronological order of events.

Explanation

Sentence C serves as the introductory statement by identifying the subject, Titanic, and providing its basic definition as a 1997 American romantic adventure film. Sentence A follows logically by using the pronoun "it" to refer to the film and specifying its central theme, the sinking of the RMS Titanic. Sentence D continues the description of the film's plot by explaining its narrative structure, mentioning how the story is told through flashbacks of the 1912 voyage. Finally, sentence B concludes the paragraph by shifting from the film's content to its commercial reception and historical box-office performance after its release.

Explanation

The sentence describes the Sun's fundamental role in providing the energy necessary for biological processes on Earth. In scientific and linguistic contexts, the term source is used to denote the origin or starting point from which something, such as light, heat, or energy, is derived. Since the Sun generates the energy that sustains life and drives environmental cycles like photosynthesis, it is the primary source of energy for the planet.

Explanation

The idiom an ace up one's sleeve means to have a secret resource, plan, or advantage that is kept hidden until it is needed most. This expression originates from card games where a dishonest player might literally hide a powerful card inside their sleeve to use at a strategic moment. In the context of the sentence, it indicates that while Brian remained quiet, he possessed a hidden advantage or vital information that the others were not yet aware of.

Explanation

The idiom called it a day means to decide or agree to stop doing something, especially working, because one has done enough or is tired. In the given sentence, the peasants had been laboring in the fields since morning and chose to end their work as evening arrived. This idiom perfectly captures the act of concluding a period of activity or a workday before returning home.

Explanation

The paragraph follows a logical progression from a general introduction to specific causes and consequences. Sentence C serves as the opening statement by introducing the primary subject: the vulnerability of young professionals to stress in the modern world. Sentence B follows by elaborating on the diverse sources of this stress, ranging from personal health to the competitive drive for career advancement. Sentence A builds on the professional aspect mentioned in B, explaining how corporate pressures like tight deadlines and performance metrics negatively impact work-life balance. Sentence D concludes the sequence by using the transitional phrase "To add to this" to introduce external economic factors that threaten job security and lead to the observed rise in the need for counseling and guidance.

Explanation

To convert a sentence from passive voice to active voice in the interrogative form for the simple future tense, we follow the structure: Will + Subject + Base Verb (V₁) + Object. In the given context, the agent performing the action is Jack, the verb is deliver, and the object being acted upon is the sweets. By placing the subject Jack before the base form of the verb deliver, the sentence becomes Will Jack deliver the sweets today? This construction correctly shifts the focus to the doer of the action while maintaining the original meaning and future timeframe.

Explanation

The word vulnerable refers to individuals or groups who are susceptible to physical or emotional harm, damage, or hardship. In the context of a pandemic and humanitarian assistance, it describes people who lack adequate protection and are more likely to suffer from the negative impacts of the crisis. The term at risk is the most appropriate synonym as it specifically denotes being in a situation where one is exposed to danger, illness, or social and economic disadvantage. This alignment highlights the susceptibility of certain populations to the threats posed by the global health emergency.

Explanation

The choice between the indefinite articles a and an depends on the phonetic sound of the following word rather than its initial letter. The acronym UFO is pronounced starting with a consonant sound /j/ (yoo-eff-oh), similar to the word university or youth. Consequently, it must be preceded by the article a. Conversely, the word English begins with a vowel sound /ɪ/, which necessitates the use of the article an. Only this sentence follows both grammatical rules for article placement based on initial vowel and consonant sounds.

Explanation

The term assassin refers to a person who murders a prominent or important figure, such as a political leader, a ruler, or a public official. These killings are characterized by being premeditated and are usually driven by political, ideological, or religious motives. The objective of an assassin is often to provoke a significant change in government policy, remove a specific individual from power, or destabilize a political system. Historically, the word is associated with targeted killings intended to achieve a specific strategic outcome in a broader sociopolitical power struggle.

Explanation

The term genocide refers to the deliberate and systematic killing of a large group of people, especially those of a particular ethnic group or nation. Etymologically, it combines the Greek root genos, meaning race or tribe, with the Latin suffix cide, meaning killing. It is used to describe acts committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial, or religious group through mass slaughter or other destructive means. In the given sentence, the phrase killing a large number of people directly aligns with this definition of mass extermination carried out for a specific purpose or perceived benefit.

Explanation

The phrase many evil is the grammatically correct choice to modify the plural countable noun practices. In this sentence, many serves as a quantifier indicating a large number, while evil acts as an adjective describing the harmful nature of the social customs. This construction accurately reflects the historical context of Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, who was a prominent 19th-century social reformer in India. He dedicated his life to eradicating numerous regressive traditions, including the prohibition of widow remarriage and the system of child marriage, which were widespread during his era. By using this phrase, the sentence effectively conveys the broad scope of his reformist work against multiple societal injustices.

Explanation

The word evident refers to something that is plain, clear, or obvious to the eye or mind. It describes a state where information or feelings are easily perceived and manifest. The word hidden is its direct antonym because it signifies something that is kept out of sight, concealed, or obscured from perception, representing the opposite of being clearly visible or apparent.

Explanation

The sentence uses the correlative conjunction structure "as + adjective + as" to establish a comparison of proportion or degree. In English grammar, when a multiplier such as "a hundred times" is used with "as" and an adjective like "wide," the comparison must be completed by a second "as" before the noun being compared. This specific construction "as wide as" correctly relates the diameter of the Sun to that of the Earth, fulfilling the requirement for a comparative equative phrase.

Explanation

The word egalitaerian in the sentence is misspelled. The correct spelling is egalitarian, which refers to the belief that all people are equal and deserve equal rights and opportunities. It is derived from the French word égalitaire and follows the standard suffix -arian used to denote an advocate of a specific principle or doctrine.

Explanation

The word nervous describes a state of being anxious, apprehensive, or easily agitated, often reflecting a lack of confidence or fear in a given situation. In contrast, courageous refers to the quality of having or showing bravery and the strength to face fear, pain, or danger with firmness. Because courageous represents the presence of boldness and confidence where nervousness implies their absence, it serves as the most appropriate antonym.

Explanation

The word meticulous is used to describe someone who shows great attention to detail and is very careful and precise in their work or actions. It implies a high level of diligence and thoroughness. The word careless is its direct antonym because it describes a lack of attention, thought, or concern for accuracy and detail, leading to errors or negligence. While a meticulous person is painstaking and scrupulous, a careless person is indifferent to precision and fails to take necessary precautions.

Explanation

In zoology and common English terminology, the offspring of a lion is referred to as a cub. This term is standard for the young of several large carnivorous mammals, including lions, tigers, bears, and foxes. Lion cubs are typically born in litters and remain dependent on the lionesses within the pride for protection and nourishment during their early development.

Explanation

The sentence is in the present perfect passive voice in negative interrogative form, which follows the structure: Has/Have + object + not + been + past participle + by + agent. To convert this into the active voice, the agent "her" becomes the subject "she", and the subject "the custard" becomes the object. The structure for a negative interrogative sentence in the present perfect active voice is: Has/Have + subject + not + past participle + object. Since the subject "she" is third-person singular, it requires the auxiliary verb "has", resulting in the construction "Has she not cooked the custard?".

Explanation

The word hinder means to create difficulties for someone or something, resulting in delay or obstruction of progress. Its direct opposite involves providing assistance or making a process easier. Aid is defined as giving help, support, or assistance to someone or something, which facilitates progress and removes obstacles. Consequently, aid serves as the most appropriate antonym because it describes the act of supporting advancement rather than impeding it.

Explanation

The sentence structure provides a list of various purposes for fountains, using semicolons to separate different categories of use. Within the final category, recreation and entertainment are presented as complementary functions. The coordinating conjunction and is used to join words or phrases of equal grammatical rank that share a similar logical relationship or add to a list. In this context, it correctly links the two noun phrases to indicate that fountains serve both recreational and entertainment roles together.

Explanation

The subject of the sentence is The musical fountain, which is a third-person singular noun. The passage describes general characteristics and functions of fountains, which requires the use of the simple present tense. In English grammar, a third-person singular subject in the simple present tense must be followed by a verb ending in -s or -es. The verb combines correctly follows this rule of subject-verb agreement to indicate that the fountain integrates different elements like water jets, lights, and music for dramatic effect.

Explanation

The subject of the sentence is Fountains, which is a plural noun. When using an emphatic pronoun to emphasize that the fountains possess the capability to be musical instruments, the pronoun must agree in number with the antecedent. Since Fountains is plural, the third-person plural pronoun themselves is required to maintain grammatical agreement.

Explanation

The preposition by is used to indicate the means, method, or agency through which an action is performed. In the context of the sentence, the fountains function as musical instruments that are operated through the specific method of blocking or interfering with the water flow. Thus, played by obstruction correctly identifies the mechanism used to produce the musical effects.

Explanation

The sentence describes a hypothetical scenario where the Sun does not exist, leading to the absence of critical processes such as photosynthesis and the production of oxygen. In biological and ecological terms, these processes are the foundational requirements for the survival and presence of living organisms on Earth. Without these essential elements, life would be unable to be present or continue to be. The term existence refers to the state of living or having objective reality, which perfectly completes the logic that the lack of solar energy and oxygen would result in the total absence of life on the planet.

Explanation

Drinking fountains are specialized plumbing fixtures designed to provide potable water for people to consume in public areas. The sentence describes the purpose of these fountains, which is to supply fresh drinking water to individuals in locations like parks and public buildings. The term logically follows the word fresh to define the specific resource being offered by the fountain for public health and hydration.

Explanation

Perseverance is the quality of continuing to make an effort to achieve something despite difficulties, failure, or opposition. it implies steadfastness, persistence, and a firm adherence to a purpose or course of action. Irresolution is the state of being undecided or hesitant, reflecting a lack of firmness in purpose or the inability to stay committed to a decision. Because irresolution represents a lack of determination and the tendency to waver, it serves as the direct antonym to the steady commitment signified by perseverance.

Explanation

The word congregation is the specific collective noun used to describe a group of people who have assembled for religious worship or to participate in a religious service. It is derived from the Latin congregare, meaning to gather together, and is specifically applied to the body of people attending a church, synagogue, mosque, or other religious meeting.

Explanation

The error lies in the use of the indefinite article a before the word hour. In English grammar, the selection of the indefinite article is determined by the initial sound of the following word rather than its spelling. The word hour begins with a silent h, meaning it starts with a vowel sound. Standard grammatical rules require the use of an before words beginning with a vowel sound to ensure phonetic fluidity. Consequently, the phrase should correctly be written as in an hour.

Explanation

The word arrival denotes the act of reaching a destination or coming to a place. Its direct antonym is departure, which signifies the act of leaving a place or starting a journey away from a location. In the context of the sentence, where one word describes the beginning of a presence, the other describes the end of that presence, making them semantic opposites in terms of movement and attendance.