SSC CGL Tier 1 2024 English Comprehension Questions with Solutions

Explanation

The word deplorable is used to describe a situation that is shockingly bad, wretched, or deserving of strong condemnation. In the context of a disaster like the Morbi bridge mishap, it signifies a state that is lamentable and distressing. The word despicable serves as an appropriate synonym as it characterizes something as being contemptible, extremely unpleasant, or deserving of intense disapproval, matching the negative and disgraceful connotation associated with a deplorable condition.

Explanation

The verb compare is the idiomatic choice that fits the grammatical structure of the sentence. In English, the construction compare something or someone to something else is used to draw a resemblance or make a metaphorical connection between two distinct entities. The context describes an acid-tongued professor who uses sharp, critical language; likening a group of human students to a herd of cows is a figurative comparison intended to convey a specific, often derogatory, image. The preposition to following the blank necessitates a verb that establishes this relationship of similarity or equivalence.

Explanation

Introversion is a personality trait characterized by a focus on internal feelings and a preference for solitary environments over social ones. In the passage, Federico Ardila-Mantilla’s isolation at MIT is attributed to two factors: a cultural one and a personal one. Introversion describes this personal disposition, explaining why he felt alone and engaged in very little collaboration during his nine years at the institution, despite not being explicitly excluded by his peers or professors.

Explanation

The passage describes Federico Ardila-Mantilla's experience of isolation and loneliness as a minority student at MIT. The sentence containing the blank uses the conjunction yet to create a contrast between external actions and internal feelings. While Ardila felt alone and isolated, he notes that this was not due to any overt or intentional effort by others to push him away or bar him from the group. To exclude someone means to deliberately leave them out or prevent them from participating in a group. Therefore, saying no one explicitly tried to exclude him explains that his isolation was a result of cultural differences and systemic factors rather than active, intentional rejection by his peers or professors.

Explanation

Trembling refers to the act of shaking involuntarily, often as a result of anxiety, fear, cold, or physical weakness. Shivering is the most appropriate synonym because it describes the same physical state of shaking or vibrating uncontrollably due to emotional distress or temperature changes. In the context of the sentence, both terms represent the physiological reaction of the body to an intense emotion like fear.

Explanation

Sentence D serves as the introductory statement by presenting a general paradox regarding literacy in India, where the absolute numbers of both literate and illiterate people have reached record highs. Sentence A follows this logically by providing a specific, parallel example concerning school attendance, reinforcing the theme of simultaneous progress and backlog. Sentence B transitions the discussion from statistical observations to a causal analysis by introducing the high birth rate, using the phrase this state of affairs to refer back to the situation described in the first two sentences. Sentence C concludes the paragraph by refining this analysis, arguing that mass illiteracy is a driver of high birth rates rather than just a consequence of them.

Explanation

The word alleviate means to make something, such as pain, suffering, or a problem, less severe or more bearable. In the context of the sentence, the subject is trying to lessen the distress of his neighbours. The word relieve is a direct synonym as it also means to provide aid or to cause a decrease in the intensity of pain or hardship, effectively reducing the burden of suffering.

Explanation

The grammatical error in this segment involves the incorrect usage of the verb form following a modal auxiliary. In English grammar, modal verbs such as will, shall, can, and must are always followed by the base form of the main verb. In the phrase will replaced, the word replaced is a past participle or past tense form, which violates this rule. The auxiliary will requires the base form replace to correctly indicate the future tense in the active voice. Correcting this ensures the sentence follows standard subject-verb-auxiliary agreement for future predictions or intentions.

Explanation

The word equivocal is derived from the Latin roots aequus, meaning equal, and vox, meaning voice or word. It describes something that is open to more than one interpretation or is intentionally vague and misleading, often used to avoid committing to a specific point of view. Similarly, the term ambiguous refers to language or situations that lack a single, definite meaning and can be understood in multiple ways. Both words characterize a state of uncertainty or lack of clarity in expression.

Explanation

The word elated signifies a state of being extremely happy, jubilant, or exhilarated, typically resulting from a positive event like a promotion. It reflects a peak of emotional high and enthusiasm. The term discouraged is the most appropriate antonym because it describes a feeling of being disheartened or deprived of confidence and spirit. While elated represents an uplifted emotional state, discouraged represents a state of being cast down or losing motivation, directly opposing the joy and triumph associated with being elated.

Explanation

The given sentence is in the passive voice and uses the simple past tense, indicated by the auxiliary was followed by the past participle grabbed. To convert this to the active voice, the agent of the action following the preposition by (The biggest telecom company in India) must become the subject, and the verb must change to its simple past form (grabbed). The recipient of the action (The contract) then moves to the object position, resulting in a direct subject-verb-object structure.

Explanation

The idiom on the fence is used to describe a person who is undecided or neutral between two choices or sides of an argument. In the given sentence, the speaker is unable to choose between a job offer and freelancing because both options present specific benefits. This state of indecision or being uncommitted to either path is the literal meaning of being on the fence, representing someone who has not yet jumped to one side or the other.

Explanation

Sentence c serves as the introductory statement by establishing the subject, yoga, and its primary advantage regarding long-term physical health. Sentence b logically follows by specifying the methodology required to achieve these benefits, focusing on the practice of body motions and breathing techniques. Sentence d then expands the scope from physical exercise to the holistic regulation of the body, intellect, and spirit. Finally, sentence a concludes the sequence by detailing how this regulation functions to stabilize internal organs and protect the mind from the effects of negative circumstances.

Explanation

The word obdurate refers to a person who is stubbornly persistent in their attitude or course of action, often remaining unmoved by persuasion or feelings of pity. It implies a hardened or unyielding nature. Similarly, the word obstinate describes someone who is headstrong and refuses to change their opinion or behavior despite arguments or requests from others. In the given sentence, David is described as behaving in an inflexible and stubborn manner toward kids, which is exactly what the term obstinate signifies.

Explanation

The idiom gift of the gab refers to the ability to speak easily and confidently in a way that makes people want to listen and believe the speaker. It describes someone who is naturally eloquent, articulate, and persuasive. Since Rahul won an extempore competition, which specifically requires the capacity to deliver spontaneous and effective speeches without prior preparation, the phrase signifies his inherent talent for speaking.

Explanation

Consensus is the correct spelling, referring to a general agreement or a collective opinion reached by a group. The word is derived from the Latin consensus, which is the past participle of consentire, meaning to feel together. It is a common spelling error to replace the second s with a c (concensus) due to confusion with the word census, but the standard English spelling consistently uses s in both the second and third syllables.

Explanation

The idiom straighten up and fly right means to improve one's behavior, reform one's conduct, or act in a responsible and serious manner. It is commonly used to suggest that someone should stop acting foolishly or improperly and start following rules or social expectations. In the context of the sentence, it signifies that Nina needs to correct her attitude and behave more maturely or appropriately.

Explanation

The correlative conjunction not only... but also requires parallel grammatical structures to follow each of its parts. In the original sentence, not only precedes the verb helped, while but also precedes a prepositional phrase with providing. To achieve parallelism, not only must be placed after helped her so that it directly precedes the prepositional phrase by giving hints. This ensures that both parts of the conjunction modify similar structures (preposition + gerund phrase), maintaining the logical balance and grammatical correctness of the sentence.

Explanation

The subject positive self-talk is an uncountable noun and is treated as singular, which requires the singular verb has to maintain subject-verb agreement. Additionally, the context requires a noun to follow the adjective great and the indefinite article a. The word effect is a noun referring to a change that is a result or consequence of an action or other cause. Conversely, affect is primarily used as a verb meaning to influence or produce a change in something. Therefore, the phrase has a great effect correctly applies both grammatical rules.

Explanation

The error in the sentence lies in the use of the definite article the before the word engineer. In English grammar, when referring to a profession or a job title that someone aims to achieve in a general sense, the indefinite article a or an is required. Since the word engineer begins with a vowel sound, the correct article to use is an. The definite article the is reserved for cases where a specific individual or a previously mentioned person is being discussed, which does not apply to Deepak's general career aspiration of entering the engineering profession.

Explanation

The given sentence is in the passive voice of the simple past tense, following the structure: object + was/were + past participle + by + agent. To convert it to the active voice, the agent of the action (the Governor) becomes the subject, and the verb changes from the passive form (was given) to the simple past active form (gave). The recipient (he) shifts to the object position (him), while the direct object (a reward) and the prepositional phrase (for his contribution) remain intact. Thus, the active construction is: The governor gave him a reward for his contribution.

Explanation

The word hostile is used to describe someone or something that is unfriendly, antagonistic, or showing strong opposition and dislike. The most direct antonym for this quality is friendly, which characterizes a person or behavior that is kind, pleasant, and well-disposed toward others. While hostile implies a state of enmity or conflict, friendly implies a state of amity and warmth.

Explanation

Pragmatic refers to a way of thinking or acting that is based on practical experience and logic rather than on theoretical ideas. A pragmatic person assesses a situation based on its realistic conditions and deals with it in a sensible, results-oriented manner to achieve the most effective outcome. This approach prioritizes what works in practice over abstract principles or idealistic notions.

Explanation

The word foment means to instigate, stir up, or provoke undesirable actions such as rebellion, discord, or trouble. It implies the encouragement of agitation and the breakdown of order. In contrast, regulate means to control, govern, or direct according to a specific set of rules or principles. While fomenting involves inciting uncontrolled activity, regulating involves imposing order and maintaining systematic control, making it the most appropriate antonym among the choices provided.

Explanation

The given sentence is in the passive voice of the simple past tense, characterized by the structure By whom + was/were + object + V3. To convert this into active voice, the passive agent By whom is replaced by the subject Who. Since the tense is simple past, the active voice follows the structure: Who + V2 (past tense verb) + object. The past tense of teach is taught, resulting in the active form Who taught you grammar?

Explanation

The word feline is derived from the Latin term felinus, which is rooted in feles, meaning cat. It is the specific adjective used in English to describe anything relating to or affecting cats or members of the cat family, Felidae. This includes physical characteristics, behaviors, or biological traits associated with both domestic cats and wild species such as lions, tigers, and cheetahs.

Explanation

The sentence establishes a cause-and-effect relationship between Sharat's belief and his behavior. Since Sharat believes that tardiness, which refers to the habit of being late, is unproductive or useless, he would naturally strive to be on time. The word punctual describes someone who consistently arrives or completes tasks at the designated or correct time, making it the only term that aligns with his opposition to being late.

Explanation

The word indispensable refers to someone or something that is absolutely necessary, crucial, or vital to a particular situation or group, such that they cannot be replaced or done without. In the context of the sentence, Sachin Tendulkar is described as a player whose presence was fundamental and required for the team's success. The word essential is a direct synonym, as it also describes a person or thing that is of the utmost importance or is fundamentally necessary for the existence or operation of something.

Explanation

In English grammar, superlative adjectives such as heaviest, tallest, and most beautiful are preceded by the definite article the rather than the indefinite article a or an. This is because a superlative degree indicates a unique, specific person or thing that possesses a certain quality to the highest degree within a defined group. Therefore, the segment is a heaviest is grammatically incorrect because it uses the indefinite article where the definite article the is required to identify Master Sam as the unique individual with the highest weight in grade twelve.

Explanation

The given sentence uses the semi-modal construction have to followed by the base verb say. To convert this structure into the passive voice, the object of the active sentence (little) becomes the subject of the passive sentence. The verb follows the pattern: Subject + have/has to + be + past participle (V3). Because little is an uncountable singular noun, the auxiliary verb have to changes to has to. The past participle of say is said. Applying these rules, the passive form is little has to be said in this matter.

Explanation

The term extinct specifically denotes something that has completely ceased to exist or has no living representatives. While often applied to biological species that have died out, it is the precise one-word substitute for any entity, custom, or form that is no longer in existence. In linguistics and sociology, it describes languages or traditions that have vanished from use, signifying a permanent state of non-existence.

Explanation

The word cascade refers to a small waterfall, typically one of several that fall in stages down a steep rocky slope. It can also describe anything that resembles such a flow, characterized by a downward pour of material or information in large quantities. Because a cascade is primarily defined by the gravitational flow of water over a ledge or a series of ledges, it is synonymous with a waterfall.

Explanation

The phrase according to is a multi-word preposition used to indicate that something is consistent with or based on a particular set of rules, records, or beliefs. In this context, it connects the performance of the dance with the tenets of the Natya Shastra, signifying that the dance adheres to the specific guidelines laid down in that ancient text. This idiomatic expression is standard in English grammar to show compliance or reference.

Explanation

The passage categorizes the fundamental styles of Indian classical dance as defined in the Natya Shastra. Tandava and Lasya represent the two foundational modes or components of dance, where Tandava is characterized by vigorous, masculine energy and Lasya by soft, feminine grace. In this context, aspects refers to the distinct features or dimensions of the dance form that classify its movement and expression. These two categories are the essential elements that define the character of a performance, making aspects the most linguistically and contextually appropriate term to describe this division.

Explanation

The word associated is the most appropriate fit for the blank because it correctly indicates a connection or symbolic link between two entities. In the context of Indian classical dance and mythology, the Tandava style is traditionally linked to Lord Shiva, representing his cosmic energy and power. The structure of the sentence, using the preposition with, naturally follows the verb associated to define this relationship.

Explanation

An orchard is a piece of land or an intentional planting of trees or shrubs that is maintained for food production, specifically focusing on fruit- or nut-producing species. These areas are managed systematically to facilitate the growth, cultivation, and harvesting of fruits like apples, pears, or citrus. The term specifically refers to the agricultural setting dedicated to the large-scale or organized growing of fruit-bearing trees.

Explanation

In the context of Indian classical dance derived from the Natya Shastra, a distinction is made between nritta and nritya. While nritta refers to pure dance consisting of rhythmic movements without any specific thematic meaning, nritya is the aspect that involves expression and the communication of a story or emotion. This is achieved through the use of facial expressions (Abhinaya) and symbolic hand gestures (Mudras) to convey the meaning of the lyrics or the mood of the music. Because this form of dance focuses on conveying a narrative or a specific sentiment to the audience, it is defined as being interpretative in nature.

Explanation

The term schools is used in the context of classical arts to categorize distinct regional styles, traditions, or systems that follow a specific set of rules and historical lineages. Bharat Natyam, Kathakali, Manipuri, and Kathak are the primary traditional systems or schools of classical dance in India, each having its own unique technique, costumes, and music while remaining rooted in the fundamental principles of Indian aesthetics and the Natya Shastra.

Explanation

Bureaucracy refers to a system of government in which most of the important decisions are taken by state officials rather than by elected representatives. The term originates from the French word bureau, meaning desk or office, and the Greek suffix kratos, meaning rule or power. It describes an administrative system characterized by a hierarchy of authority, a clear division of labor, and strict adherence to established rules and procedures. In this form of governance, the professional officials who make up the civil service manage the day-to-day operations and policy implementation of the state.

Explanation

The preposition at is used to denote a specific location, event, or occasion. In this context, the unveiling of the third National Wildlife Action Plan occurred during the Global Wildlife Programme conference, which is a specific organized event. When referring to attendance or occurrences at meetings, conferences, or ceremonies, at is the standard idiomatical choice to indicate the point or occasion where the action took place.

Explanation

The sentence requires a coordinating conjunction to link two parallel verbs that share the same subject, The plan. The verbs recognises and addresses both describe the actions taken by the National Wildlife Action Plan (2017-2031) regarding climate change concerns. Using and correctly joins these two functions into a compound predicate, indicating that the plan not only identifies the problems but also provides the necessary measures to resolve them.

Explanation

The National Wildlife Action Plan (NWAP) 2017-2031 emphasizes the inextricable link between the health of natural ecosystems and the well-being of people. The term human survival and sustainable development is a standard terminological pairing in environmental policy and international conservation frameworks. It highlights that the preservation of biodiversity is critical for maintaining the ecological services—such as clean water, air, and fertile soil—that are essential for the continued existence and economic stability of human populations.

Explanation

The term genetic diversity refers to the range of different inherited traits within a species. In the context of the National Wildlife Action Plan (2017-2031), preserving genetic diversity is a fundamental objective of conservation because it ensures that species have the necessary variation to adapt to environmental changes, such as climate change. Maintaining this diversity is critical for the long-term survival of wildlife and the overall health of ecosystems, which in turn supports scientific research and the livelihoods of communities dependent on natural resources.

Explanation

The passage describes the scope of the third National Wildlife Action Plan, specifically focusing on the rehabilitation of threatened wildlife species across various environments. The term including is used as a preposition to introduce specific examples or categories that are part of the broader group being discussed. In this context, it specifies that the rehabilitation efforts and habitat conservation extend to specific types of ecosystems, namely inland aquatic, coastal, and marine ecosystems. This usage is standard in formal and policy documentation to define the comprehensive reach of a plan or directive.

Explanation

The sentence requires the past continuous tense to describe an action that was in progress when another event occurred. The past continuous is formed using the auxiliary verb was or were followed by the present participle of the main verb. In the segment Jerry driving, the auxiliary verb was is missing, which is necessary to function as the predicate for the singular subject Jerry. The grammatically correct construction is Jerry was driving.

Explanation

The word Unfourseen is incorrectly spelled. The correct spelling is Unforeseen, which is a combination of the prefix un-, meaning not, and foreseen, the past participle of foresee. The root word follows the prefix fore-, meaning before or in advance, similar to words like forecast or foretell. The inclusion of the letter u in the second syllable is a misspelling, as the word is not related to the number four.

Explanation

To evoke means to call forth or produce a memory, feeling, or reaction in someone. Similarly, to induce means to bring about or give rise to a particular condition or response. Both terms describe the process of causing or stimulating an effect or state of mind, making them synonyms in the context of initiating a specific outcome or internal state.

Explanation

The word convalescing refers to the process of gradually regaining health and strength after an illness, injury, or medical treatment. It describes the period of time required for a person to heal and return to their normal physical state following a period of physical distress. In the context of soldiers, this term specifically indicates the time spent in medical care or rest to mend from battlefield injuries or diseases before returning to active duty or civilian life. Therefore, recovering is the most suitable term as it directly aligns with the definition of returning to a state of wellness.

Explanation

The word restaurant is correctly spelled with the sequence r-e-s-t-a-u-r-a-n-t, which includes the necessary a after the second t. This spelling originates from the French word restaurer, meaning to restore. The adjective delicious is also spelled correctly as d-e-l-i-c-i-o-u-s, following the standard suffix -icious used for adjectives. The sentence also maintains proper subject-verb agreement, where the singular subject restaurant correctly pairs with the singular verb serves. All components of the sentence follow standard English orthography.

Explanation

Intelligible refers to something that is clear, logical, and easy to understand or comprehend. Its antonym must represent a lack of clarity or logical connection. Incoherent is the most appropriate opposite because it describes communication or thought processes that are confused, disjointed, and impossible to follow or understand.