SSC CGL Tier 1 2023 English Comprehension Questions with Solutions

Explanation

Sentence B serves as the logical introduction to the paragraph as it provides specific details regarding the approval of the national education strategy by the Indian union cabinet on 29 July 2020. Sentence A follows B by using the pronoun it to refer back to the newly approved strategy and explaining its historical context as a replacement for the 1986 policy. Sentence D continues the flow by identifying the primary goal of the policy and its impact on the educational system, employing the phrase this policy to link back to the preceding sentences. Sentence C concludes the paragraph by adding further details about the specific framework and scope of the policy, covering everything from primary education to vocational training.

Explanation

The phrasal verb took over means to assume control, responsibility, or management of something, especially in succession to someone else. In this context, it signifies that Mohan has assumed the official duties and leadership of the Centre for Life Skills, taking the position previously held by Mustafa. This usage is standard for describing the transition of authority or a change in person-in-charge within an organization or department.

Explanation

The idiom under the cloud means to be under suspicion or viewed with distrust, typically because one is thought to have done something wrong or illegal. In this sentence, the driver is under suspicion by the police due to the incriminating evidence found on his car, which directly reflects the figurative meaning of the expression.

Explanation

The word agony refers specifically to a state of intense or extreme physical or mental suffering. In the context of the sentence, it serves as a precise synonym for extreme pain, capturing the high level of distress Bajrang is experiencing. This term is used to describe suffering that is severe and often unbearable, making it the most suitable replacement for the underlined segment to maintain the original intensity of the description.

Explanation

The word unsure denotes a state of doubt, hesitation, or something that is not fixed or definitely known. In the provided sentence, the word certain is used to describe a state where something is established beyond doubt or is firmly fixed. Because certain signifies being sure and reliable, it serves as the direct antonym to unsure.

Explanation

The word acquitted means to be formally declared not guilty of a charge or crime by a court of law. In legal terminology, its direct antonym is convicted, which means to be officially found guilty of a criminal offense by the verdict of a jury or the decision of a judge. While acquittal represents the exoneration of the accused, a conviction represents the establishment of guilt and the subsequent legal accountability for the charges filed.

Explanation

The word modest describes someone who is humble and does not have an over-inflated sense of their own importance or abilities. In contrast, the word conceited refers to an individual who is excessively proud of themselves, displaying vanity and an overestimation of their own worth. Because these two terms represent opposite traits regarding self-estimation and behavior, conceited is the most appropriate antonym for modest.

Explanation

The word resplendent is the most suitable synonym for luminous in this context because it describes someone or something that is shining brilliantly or characterized by a glowing, magnificent appearance. When used to describe a person wearing jewelry like a diamond necklace, resplendent captures the quality of being radiant and visually impressive due to the reflection of light, which aligns directly with the meaning of luminous as bright or emitting light.

Explanation

The idiom once in a blue moon refers to an event that occurs very rarely or infrequently. It is derived from the astronomical phenomenon of a blue moon, which is the appearance of a second full moon within a single calendar month. Since this lunar event happens only about once every two to three years, the phrase became a common metaphorical expression for something that happens only on very rare occasions.

Explanation

In the transformation of interrogative sentences starting with who from active to passive voice, the pronoun who is replaced by by whom. Since the original sentence who teaches her geography is in the simple present tense, the passive form must use the auxiliary verb is/am/are followed by the past participle (V3) of the main verb. The indirect object her becomes the subject she in the passive construction. To maintain the interrogative structure, the auxiliary verb is must be placed before the subject she. Thus, the correct passive structure is by whom + is + she + taught + geography.

Explanation

The paragraph follows a logical sequence starting with sentence D, which introduces the Dead Sea and its defining characteristic of extreme salinity. Sentence E provides the reason for this condition by identifying the Jordan River as its primary water source. Sentence C continues this hydrological explanation by stating that once the water enters the lake, it has no outlet and is forced to evaporate. Sentence A adds environmental context, explaining that the region's intense heat and aridity accelerate this evaporation process. Finally, sentence B concludes the sequence by describing the result of the evaporation, which is the increasing concentration of salt and minerals that gives the Dead Sea its unique properties.

Explanation

The paragraph follows the logical sequence of the Bayer and Hall-Héroult processes used in industrial aluminium production. Sentence A serves as the introduction by identifying bauxite as the primary raw material for the entire process. Sentence C describes the formation of sodium aluminate, which is the immediate chemical result of the digestion phase where bauxite is treated with caustic soda. Sentence B correctly identifies precipitation as the pre-final stage in which aluminium hydroxide is recovered from the solution. Finally, sentence D concludes the sequence by explaining the smelting process, the ultimate electrochemical step that extracts pure aluminium metal from its oxide form. This arrangement transitions systematically from the raw input through intermediate chemical stages to the finished product.

Explanation

The paragraph follows a logical narrative sequence starting with sentence B, which introduces the protagonist, Karen, and the primary setting of a garden. Sentence E provides character depth by explaining Karen's love for the outdoors and the breeze, establishing her motivation for being in the garden. Sentence A describes her initial movements as she explores the space while being careful of the flowers. Sentence C transitions the action to a specific discovery, finding a swing behind a bush. Finally, sentence D concludes the narrative with Karen acting upon her discovery by using the swing, which results in the wind disheveling her hair, creating a thematic link back to the breeze mentioned in sentence E.

Explanation

The given sentence is in the Simple Past tense, using the structure Who + V₂ + Object. To convert an interrogative sentence beginning with Who into the passive voice, the standard grammatical formula is By whom + was/were + Object + V₃. In this case, the object my glasses is plural, requiring the auxiliary verb were. The past participle form of the verb break is broken. Applying these rules, the passive form is correctly structured as By whom were my glasses broken?

Explanation

The word dual is an adjective meaning consisting of two parts, elements, or aspects. In the context of the sentence, a dual attitude refers to a twofold or double-sided personality that leads to confusion or misguidance. While it sounds identical to the underlined word duel, which refers to a formal combat between two people, the correct spelling for the intended meaning of double is dual.

Explanation

The sentence is written in the passive voice to describe the function or purpose of posters. In English grammar, the passive voice is formed using a form of the verb to be followed by the past participle of the main verb. Since the subject Posters is plural and the auxiliary verb are is provided, the past participle used is required to complete the construction Posters are used to denote that they serve a specific purpose.

Explanation

The phrasal verb pass on is used to mean the act of conveying, transmitting, or communicating information, messages, or knowledge from one person or entity to another. In the context of the sentence, posters serve as a medium to pass on or deliver important information to the public or a specific audience. This usage aligns with the functional purpose of posters as tools for dissemination and communication.

Explanation

The sentence uses the structure ranging from... to... to illustrate the diverse applications of posters, citing examples as different as safety warnings and event advertisements. The word varied is the most appropriate fit because it describes a collection of things that are of different types or diverse in nature, which aligns with the context of multiple, distinct purposes mentioned in the passage.

Explanation

The sentence describes the typical composition of a poster, which involves the combination of visual and textual elements. The coordinating conjunction and is used to connect the two noun phrases a picture and very few words, indicating that both components are present together to create the final product.

Explanation

In the context of graphic design and visual communication, a caption refers to the brief text or heading that accompanies an image to explain its purpose or provide a catchy summary. Since posters rely on a combination of impactful visuals and concise wording, a well-chosen caption effectively synthesizes the message, making the advertisement or announcement both easy to understand and memorable for the audience.

Explanation

Domicile is the legal term for the place that a person treats as their permanent home or where they have a substantial connection. The other options refer to a fertile desert area (oasis), a protective wall (embankment), or a vacation destination (resort).

Explanation

The verb own is a stative verb that denotes possession rather than an action. In English grammar, stative verbs are generally not used in the continuous or progressive forms even if the possession is happening in the present moment. Instead, they are used in the simple present tense. Since the subject My friend is a third-person singular noun, it requires the singular form of the verb, which is owns, to satisfy the rules of subject-verb agreement.

Explanation

The original sentence is in the present perfect tense, so its passive form requires the structure has/have + been + past participle. Since the subject The crime is singular, the correct auxiliary verb is has not been, making option D the only grammatically correct choice.

Explanation

In the given context, fancies refers to the whimsical imaginations or capricious likings of a child. A fancy is defined as a mental image or a transitory feeling of attraction and inclination, both of which are categorized as emotions. The term emotion is the most fitting synonym because it captures the subjective and affective nature of these internal whims. These childish fancies signify the imaginative feelings and mental inclinations that the author reflects upon, representing the emotional experiences of her early life.

Explanation

The sentence is in indirect speech and follows a reporting verb in the past tense (said), which requires the reported clause to shift into the past tense; therefore, "he is coming" should be changed to "he was coming". All other segments use correct grammar and prepositions.

Explanation

The word genial is an adjective used to describe a person who is friendly, warm, and pleasant in manner. It conveys a sense of kindness and a welcoming disposition, often associated with a lively and happy temperament. Cheerful is the most appropriate synonym because it directly aligns with this meaning, representing a state of being in good spirits and possessing a bright, pleasant attitude that makes others feel comfortable.

Explanation

The paragraph follows a chronological and thematic sequence starting with Fleming's rise to fame (C), followed by his knighthood in 1944 (A), and then the Nobel Prize the next year in 1945 (D). Sentence B concludes the paragraph with his modest reaction to these cumulative honors.

Explanation

The word absorbed, when used to describe a person's state of mind, means being deeply interested, involved, or engrossed in something. Preoccupied is the most appropriate synonym among the choices as it describes the state of being fully taken up with thoughts or a particular activity. While absorbed can also relate to physical liquids, soaked refers to a state of being extremely wet rather than the process of absorption itself.

Explanation

The correct spelling of the word is Almost, which contains only one l. The words Treble, Nozzle, and Moisture are all spelled correctly.

Explanation

Gate refers to a movable barrier used to close an opening in a wall or fence, while gait refers specifically to a person's manner of walking. Option B accurately defines both terms according to standard English usage.

Explanation

The word opportunity begins with a vowel sound, so it must be preceded by the indefinite article an rather than a. Therefore, the phrase for a opportunity is grammatically incorrect.

Explanation

The preposition among is used when referring to distribution or relationships involving more than two people or entities, which fits the plural noun players. The reflexive pronoun themselves is the correct plural form to refer back to the players.

Explanation

Sentence A introduces the setting and the young King being alone in his chamber. Sentence D logically follows by explaining why he was alone (the departure of the courtiers), while sentence C describes the King's reaction to their departure and introduces the mention of hunters. Sentence B concludes the sequence by providing background information regarding the hunters mentioned at the end of sentence C.

Explanation

The sentence is in the passive voice using the future simple tense (will be + past participle). To convert it to active voice, the agent "them" becomes the subject "They," and the verb phrase "will be sent" changes to "will send," followed by the object "wedding invitations."

Explanation

The word messy means untidy or cluttered, so its most appropriate antonym is organised, which means arranged in a systematic way. Options A, B, and C are synonyms of the word messy and do not represent the opposite meaning.

Explanation

The idiom "a perfect storm" refers to an especially bad situation caused by a combination of several unfortunate events or circumstances occurring at the same time. Therefore, "the worst possible situation" is the most appropriate meaning.

Explanation

The idiom bad blood refers to feelings of deep-seated animosity, resentment, or ill-will between people, typically arising from past conflicts or grievances. It describes a state of hostile or bitter relations where two parties are no longer on friendly terms. In this context, the presence of bitter relations between the gangster and the local activist perfectly captures the essence of having bad blood, as it indicates a history of mutual dislike and ongoing tension.

Explanation

The word vast means very great in size, amount, or extent, often referring to an immense physical space. In the context of snow fields, it describes a landscape that stretches over a very large area. The word extensive is a direct synonym as it refers to something covering or affecting a large area or having a wide range. Both words emphasize the broad spatial scale of the New England village scenery described in the passage.

Explanation

When a sentence begins with negative adverbs like Hardly, Scarcely, or No sooner, the rule of inversion must be followed, placing the auxiliary verb before the subject. Therefore, Hardly had we boarded is the correct grammatical structure.

Explanation

The antecedent of the relative pronoun that is the plural noun elements, which requires the plural verb empower. In this context, empower logically describes how computer elements strengthen or enable our modern world.

Explanation

The context describes an educational book designed to engage students using colorful and creative activities, making unique the most appropriate word to describe its special or distinctive approach. Words like difficult or complex would contradict the interactive and student-friendly nature of the book.

Explanation

The subject of the sentence is the plural noun phrase "The puzzles, activities and mazes," which requires a plural verb. Since the passage describes the book's features in the simple present tense, the plural present form "help" is the grammatically correct choice.

Explanation

In the context of educational material designed to foster critical thinking and logical skills, brainstorming refers to a method of generating creative ideas and solutions through intensive thinking. The passage describes a book that uses interactive and creative activities to enhance a student's cognitive abilities. Therefore, brainstorming exercises are logically incorporated after lessons to stimulate the students' minds, encourage independent thought, and reinforce the concepts they have just learned.

Explanation

The sentence structure requires an infinitive phrase to express the purpose for which the exercises are incorporated. In English grammar, a to-infinitive is constructed using the preposition to followed by the base form of the verb. The word evolve is the base form of the verb, signifying gradual development or improvement. Therefore, to evolve the conceptual understanding correctly completes the sentence by identifying the intended goal of the exercises, which is to help the students' understanding grow and mature.

Explanation

The given sentence is an imperative sentence. To convert an imperative sentence expressing a command or request into passive voice, the standard grammatical structure follows the formula: Let + Object + be + Past Participle (V3). In this instance, the object is the wheels and the verb is take, which has the past participle form taken. Applying the formula results in the structure Let the wheels be taken. Since the subject in imperative sentences is the implied pronoun you, it is grammatically appropriate to include by you at the end of the passive construction.

Explanation

The greenhouse effect occurs when specific gases in the Earth's atmosphere absorb and re-radiate heat, preventing it from escaping into space. These gases are distributed throughout the layers of the atmosphere rather than being located next to it. The preposition inside accurately describes this relationship, as the gases are contained within the volume of the atmosphere where they perform the function of trapping thermal energy to cause global warming.

Explanation

The word Remmission is incorrectly spelt because it contains an unnecessary double m. The correct spelling is Remission, which is derived from the verb remit. It refers to the cancellation of a debt, charge, or penalty, or a temporary diminution of the severity of a disease or pain. In this word, the letter m is used only once, followed by a single i and a double s.

Explanation

The word brakes refers to a mechanical device used for slowing or stopping a moving vehicle, which perfectly fits the context of driving a car and avoiding an accident. While the word breaks is a homophone that sounds the same, it refers to shattering an object or taking a pause from an activity. Consequently, brakes is the linguistically and contextually appropriate spelling for the safety mechanism mentioned in the sentence.

Explanation

Jargon refers to the specialized terminology or characteristic idiom of a particular group, profession, or trade that is often difficult for outsiders to understand. Slang is considered the most appropriate synonym in this context because it also describes a category of language consisting of words and phrases that are typically restricted to a particular context or group of people. Both terms identify non-standard forms of communication that create a distinction between those within a specific circle and those outside of it.

Explanation

The sentence structure follows the First Conditional pattern, which expresses a possible future condition and its likely result. In this construction, the if-clause should be in the present tense, while the main clause uses the future tense (will + verb). The main clause here correctly uses mankind will have to accept, but the if-clause incorrectly uses the past tense were not going to. To maintain grammatical consistency and logical tense sequence, the past tense verb were must be replaced with the present tense are to indicate a condition that applies to the current or future situation following the pandemic.