SSC CGL Tier 1 2024 English Comprehension Questions with Solutions

Explanation

The sentence is entirely free of spelling errors. The word pronunciation is correctly spelled as P-R-O-N-U-N-C-I-A-T-I-O-N. It is a common spelling trap because while the root verb is pronounce, the noun form drops the second o and changes the vowel sound in the middle. Other words in the sentence, such as particular and classes, also follow standard English spelling conventions.

Explanation

The sentence "He had cleaned the bathroom" is in the past perfect tense, which follows the structure: Subject + had + V₃ (past participle) + Object. To convert this into the passive voice, the structure changes to: Object + had been + V₃ + by + Subject. In this case, the object "the bathroom" becomes the new subject, the auxiliary verb "had" is followed by "been", and the past participle "cleaned" remains the same, followed by the agent "by him."

Explanation

The sentence requires the superlative degree of comparison, as indicated by the use of the adjective greatest preceded by the definite article the. In English grammar, superlative adjectives are typically followed by the preposition of or among when referring to the group being compared. The phrase of the Mauryan Emperors correctly establishes the relationship between Ashoka and the entire category of Mauryan rulers, indicating that within that specific group, he held the highest rank of greatness. This construction follows the standard grammatical pattern where an individual is singled out from a collective noun or a plural group using the preposition of to define the scope of the superlative quality.

Explanation

To concede means to admit, acknowledge, or yield to the truth or validity of something, often after initial resistance. It involves granting a point or surrendering a position. In contrast, to deny means to refuse to admit the truth or existence of something, or to reject a claim or request. This makes deny the direct antonym as it represents the act of withholding acceptance or assertion of falsehood.

Explanation

The sentence follows a logical grammatical structure consisting of a subject, a modal verb, an action, and a purpose. Part R (one must) provides the subject and the modal verb of necessity. This is followed by Part Q (exercise daily), which specifies the action and its frequency. The final segment is a prepositional phrase formed by Part P (for a) and Part S (good body), which explains the goal or reason for the action. Arranging these parts in the sequence RQPS creates the coherent and meaningful English sentence: One must exercise daily for a good body.

Explanation

The word bombastic describes a style of speech or writing that is high-sounding, inflated, and pretentious. It is characterized by the use of grandiloquent language intended to impress, often without much underlying meaning or substance. The term simple serves as the most appropriate antonym because it represents the quality of being plain, straightforward, and unadorned. A simple style focuses on clarity and directness, which is the functional opposite of the affected and over-elaborate nature of bombastic expression.

Explanation

The word forgive means to pardon an offender or to remit a debt or penalty, effectively choosing to let go of a grievance or resentment. The word requite means to make a return or repayment for a service or an injury. In the context of a wrong or offense, to requite signifies to retaliate or avenge the action, which acts as the direct functional opposite of granting a pardon. While forgiveness involves waiving the need for a compensatory or punitive response, requiting involves exacting a corresponding action or punishment in return for the offense committed.

Explanation

Endurance is the most appropriate synonym for patience in this context as it refers to the ability to withstand a prolonged, tedious, or difficult situation without giving way. In the given sentence, standing in a queue is a task that requires the capacity to tolerate a delay or wait over a period of time, making endurance the most fitting substitute to describe the quality one lacks when they cannot handle the strain of waiting.

Explanation

The sentence follows a logical grammatical structure starting with the subject and verb in part (a), which states the Industrial Revolution denotes. This is immediately followed by the noun phrase in part (c), providing the definition of what is being denoted: a significant period of social, economic and technological revolution. Part (d) provides a relative clause starting with that to specify the beginning of this period in the latter part of the 18ᵗʰ century. Finally, part (b) uses the coordinating conjunction and to link the end of the time period, noting it continued until the middle of the 19ᵗʰ century. The sequence acdb creates a chronologically and syntactically coherent definition of the historical event.

Explanation

The term voyage refers to a long journey, especially one involving travel by sea or through space to a distant or unknown place. In the context of the sentence, the ship is embarking on an expedition of discovery, making voyage the most precise and appropriate vocabulary choice to substitute the descriptive phrase journey by water or sea.

Explanation

The word shallow refers to a physical state where there is very little distance from the surface to the bottom, such as in the low end of a swimming pool. Its direct antonym is deep, which describes a significant distance from the top to the bottom. In the context of the sentence, deep is the most appropriate term because excessive depth in a pool is a common reason why it would be unsafe or unsuitable for children to play.

Explanation

In English grammar, the principle of sequence of tenses requires that if the principal verb of a sentence is in the past tense, the verbs in the subordinate clauses should also be in a past tense. In the sentence I said I didn't understand, the reporting verb said is in the simple past tense. Consequently, the bracketed word don't, which is the present tense contraction of do not, must be converted to its past tense form didn't, the contraction of did not, to maintain grammatical consistency and correctly report the state of understanding at the time the statement was made.

Explanation

The active sentence is in the simple past tense (indicated by "didn't"). To convert a simple past interrogative sentence into passive voice, the auxiliary "did" is replaced by "was" or "were" depending on the new subject. The object of the active sentence "her son" becomes the subject of the passive sentence. Since "her son" is singular, "wasn't" is used. The main verb "bring" is changed to its past participle form "brought", and the subject "she" is included as the agent "by her". Following the structure of "Why + was/were + subject + V3 + by agent?", the sentence becomes "Why wasn't her son brought by her to my house?"

Explanation

The passage describes the psychological and social tendency of individuals to associate with others who possess similar inclinations or preferences. In this context, tastes refers to a person's individual likings, interests, and aesthetic or moral choices. The subsequent sentences illustrate this by comparing groups like wise men and fools or serious-minded and light-hearted people, all of whom seek companions whose internal dispositions and preferences align with their own.

Explanation

The passage focuses on the social principle that individuals prefer the companionship of those who share similar characteristics or temperaments. In the second sentence, the word company is the most suitable fit as it refers to the state of being with others or the presence of another person. The sentence establishes a parallel between fools not liking the presence of wise men and wise men avoiding fools. This choice is further supported by the first sentence, which explicitly mentions seeking company, and the final sentence, which concludes that a person's character can be judged by the company they keep.

Explanation

The passage establishes a thematic pattern of contrasting character traits to demonstrate that people prefer the company of those similar to themselves. In the sentence containing blank (3), "serious-minded people" are being compared to an opposite group. The word "frivolous" describes individuals who lack a serious purpose, are carefree, or are concerned with trivial matters. This makes "frivolous" the logical antonym to "serious-minded" in this context, fitting the established structure of contrasting fools with wise men and sinners with the virtuous. Serious-minded individuals, who value depth and sobriety, naturally find little in common with those who are frivolous.

Explanation

The passage follows a consistent thematic structure where groups of people are contrasted with their direct opposites to illustrate that individuals prefer the company of those similar to themselves. Following the comparisons of fools versus wise men and serious-minded versus frivolous folk, the word required must be the moral antonym of sinners. Saints, representing individuals of exceptional virtue and holiness, serve as the natural antithesis to sinners. This contrast explains why sinners feel uneasy or out of place in the company of the virtuous, leading them to avoid such associations in favor of those who share their own character.

Explanation

The sentence is a variation of the classic English proverb that a man is known by the company he keeps. Throughout the passage, the author illustrates how individuals are naturally drawn to others who share their specific mental and moral qualities, such as wisdom, seriousness, or virtue. Because people seek out those with similar dispositions, observing a person's social circle allows one to evaluate their character. Character refers to the collective individual qualities and ethical nature of a person, which is the central theme being discussed as the basis for judging someone based on their associates.

Explanation

The verb knead refers to the physical process of working dough or a similar mixture with the hands to develop its texture. In a culinary context, this action is performed on a paste made primarily of flour and water. The word flour is a homophone of flower, as both terms share the same pronunciation despite their different meanings and spellings. Given that one kneads dough to prepare bread or pastries, flour is the logically and linguistically correct choice to fill the blank.

Explanation

Alliteration is a literary device characterized by the repetition of the same initial consonant sound in a sequence of nearby words. In the sentence provided, the consonant sound r is repeated at the beginning of the words Round, rugged, rocks, ragged, rascal, and ran. This phonetic repetition creates a specific rhythmic effect and draws attention to the phrase, which is the defining feature of alliteration in English prosody and rhetoric.

Explanation

The verb bear is used in this sentence to mean to endure, tolerate, or withstand something unpleasant or painful. In the context of receiving an insult, it signifies the mother's inability to cope with or accept the disrespectful behavior from her son. This specific sense of the word is distinct from its noun form referring to an animal and is typically used in negative constructions like could not bear or cannot bear to express emotional or physical intolerance toward a situation or feeling.

Explanation

The sentence begins with the past continuous clause While I was walking, which establishes a past time frame for the narrative. To maintain tense consistency throughout the sentence, the subsequent verbs describing the actions that occurred during that time must also be in the past tense. The verbs calls and ask are in the present tense, which creates a grammatical mismatch. They should be replaced with their simple past forms, called and asked, to correctly align with the established past context.

Explanation

The idiom turn up one's nose at someone means to show contempt or disdain, often viewing the person as inferior or not good enough for one's social status. In the context of the sentence, it accurately replaces the underlined phrase as it describes the relatives' scornful attitude toward the woman due to her poverty.

Explanation

The word late signifies occurring or arriving after the expected, proper, or usual time. Its direct antonym is early, which refers to happening before the usual or expected time. In the context of the sentence, strict time restrictions imposed by parents would require someone to depart before the event concludes or before it becomes late, making early the grammatically and contextually appropriate choice.

Explanation

A bayonet is a dagger-like steel weapon designed to be attached to the muzzle of a rifle, musket, or similar firearm. This attachment allows the weapon to be used as a spear for hand-to-hand combat or close-quarters fighting, effectively turning a long gun into a thrusting weapon.

Explanation

The verb chime is specifically used to describe the rhythmic, melodious, or ringing sound produced by a clock. In the context of a small clock being picked up and starting an action that is described as pleasant or graceful, chime prettily is the most suitable substitution. It aligns the metaphorical description of the clock's movement with its actual mechanical function of producing sound, maintaining the aesthetic and sensory quality of the original sentence.

Explanation

To convert a sentence with a modal verb from active to passive voice, the structure follows the pattern: Object + modal verb + be + past participle (V3) + by + Subject. In the active sentence, We is the subject, should is the modal verb, clean is the base form of the verb, and the house is the object. Following the rule, the house moves to the subject position, should is followed by be and the past participle cleaned, resulting in the construction: The house should be cleaned regularly by us.

Explanation

The sequence POQR forms a coherent English sentence by establishing a logical Subject-Verb-Modifier relationship. Part (P) hard work and perseverance serves as the compound subject of the sentence, which is directly followed by the predicate (O) lead to success. This combination creates a complete independent clause. The remaining segments (Q) no matter how difficult and (R) the journey may seem function together as a concessive adverbial clause, where (Q) provides the subordinating phrase and (R) provides the subject and linking verb for that clause. When arranged as POQR, the sentence reads: Hard work and perseverance lead to success no matter how difficult the journey may seem. This structure adheres to standard English syntax and conveys a clear, meaningful message.

Explanation

The paragraph begins with sentence C, which introduces the overarching theme by identifying the two types of assessments, Formative and Summative, established by the CBSE. This provides the necessary context for the definitions that follow. Sentence D follows logically by defining the first type mentioned, Formative assessment, and explaining the various interactive methods used to conduct it during the teaching process. Sentence A then defines the second type, Summative assessment, focusing on its role at the end of the academic term. The sequence concludes with sentence B, which refers back to the entire assessment framework as "this new pattern" and explains its broader benefit of encouraging effective interaction between teachers and students beyond traditional textbook learning.

Explanation

The term judicious is derived from the Latin judicium, meaning judgment, and describes an action or decision characterized by sound thinking, wisdom, and the ability to balance various factors effectively. Prudent is a direct synonym as it refers to exercising care, foresight, and good judgment in practical affairs. When a choice is described as judicious, it implies that it was sensible and well-considered, which is exactly what a prudent decision entails.

Explanation

The term traitor refers specifically to a person who betrays their country, a cause, or a trust. In the context of the sentence, it serves as the precise one-word substitution for the phrase betrayer of the country. A person who acts against the interests of their own nation or assists its enemies is defined legally and linguistically as a traitor. Using this single noun makes the expression more concise while accurately preserving the intended meaning of disloyalty to the state.

Explanation

The idiom let the dust settle refers to waiting for a period of excitement, confusion, or turmoil to subside before taking further action or making a decision. It draws a metaphor from a physical situation where dust kicked up into the air during a disturbance makes it difficult to see clearly; once the movement stops and the dust returns to the ground, visibility is restored. In a practical context, it means allowing a chaotic or rapidly changing situation to stabilize so that the long-term consequences or the true state of affairs become apparent and certain. This allows for a more rational and informed assessment of the situation after the initial intensity of an event has passed.

Explanation

Decency refers to behavior that conforms to accepted standards of morality, respectability, and kindness. In the context of the sentence, it implies a sense of moral obligation and kindness that led the subject to provide employment. Courtesy is the most appropriate synonym as it denotes polite, respectful, and considerate behavior toward others, reflecting a similar quality of character and social grace.

Explanation

The error in this sentence is the word order in the phrase few next days. In English grammar, when a quantifier like few or several is used alongside an ordinal or sequence-indicating adjective like next, last, or first, the ordinal must precede the quantifier. The standard syntactic structure requires the sequence next few days to indicate a period of time immediately following the present. Consequently, the segment should correctly read the next few days to be grammatically accurate.

Explanation

The given sentence is in the passive voice and uses the simple past tense, as indicated by the structure was + past participle (bandaged). To convert this to the active voice, the agent of the action (the kind nurse) becomes the subject, the auxiliary verb was is removed, and the main verb (bandaged) is used in its simple past form. The original subject (his father's arm) then functions as the direct object of the verb. This maintains the chronological and grammatical consistency of the original statement.

Explanation

The word unsure means feeling a lack of confidence, being undecided, or having doubts about a particular situation or fact. Its direct antonym is certain, which describes a state of being completely confident, sure, and established beyond any doubt. In the context of the sentence, if the speaker is no longer unsure about the risks, they would be certain about them.

Explanation

The word believes is used incorrectly in this sentence as a plural noun. While believes is a valid spelling for the third-person singular present tense of the verb to believe, the sentence requires the plural noun form to follow the quantifier many. The correct spelling for the plural noun is beliefs. This confusion between the verb and noun forms results in a spelling error relative to the intended grammatical function of the word in the sentence.

Explanation

The subject of the sentence is the rise in global temperature, which is a singular noun phrase. In English grammar, a singular subject must be followed by a singular auxiliary verb to maintain subject-verb agreement. The phrase already occurred indicates the use of the present perfect tense, which is used to describe an action that happened in the past and has continuing relevance or effects in the present. The relative pronoun that introduces a restrictive clause describing the specific rise. Therefore, the singular auxiliary verb has is required to match the singular noun rise, making that has the grammatically correct choice to complete the sentence.

Explanation

The passage describes the severe consequences of global temperature rise, using terms such as extreme weather events, devastating floods, and increasingly powerful hurricanes. In this context, the adjective required to describe heat waves and droughts must align with the theme of high severity and extreme conditions. Intense refers to something that is present in an extreme degree or has a very strong effect, making it the logically and contextually appropriate choice to characterize life-threatening heat waves and droughts.

Explanation

The context of the passage focuses on the intensifying consequences of global warming, such as extreme weather events and their negative effects on human health. Since the text mentions that these impacts are already increasing, the phrase likely to is the most appropriate choice to indicate a high probability that this trend will continue to accelerate in the future, consistent with scientific projections regarding the climate crisis.

Explanation

The verb honour is the most appropriate choice in this context because it collocates strongly with the word pledges. In formal and political communication, to honour a pledge means to fulfill a commitment, promise, or international agreement that has been previously established. Since the text discusses the specific commitments made by governments during the Glasgow summit in November 2021, honouring those pledges refers to the act of following through on these promises with concrete action to resolve the climate crisis.

Explanation

The phrasal verb call on means to formally ask or appeal to a person, group, or organization to do something. In the context of global advocacy, international bodies like the WHO frequently call on governments to implement specific policies or take urgent actions. The sentence structure follows the standard idiomatic pattern of calling on someone to perform an action, which in this case is to lead a just and fast phase out of fossil fuels.

Explanation

The word enthralled describes a state of being completely fascinated, captivated, or intensely interested in something. In the context of the sentence, it highlights how the author's writing held the readers' full attention and charm. The most appropriate antonym is bored, which refers to feeling weary and restless through lack of interest or because one finds something dull and tedious. This directly opposes the state of being spellbound or deeply engaged.

Explanation

In the context of physical height or vertical distance, high refers to something that extends a great distance upward from the ground. The word low is its direct antonym, as it describes something that has a small vertical extent or is situated close to the base or ground level. This opposition directly counters the description of a building with many floors.

Explanation

The statement is structured to provide a historical context followed by a specific subject and its subsequent condition. It begins with segment S, providing the temporal setting after the Second World War. This is followed by segment Q, which introduces the subject, the east European countries. The relative clause starting with segment O, that the Soviet army had liberated, specifies which countries are being discussed. Segment P completes this relative clause with from the fascist forces and provides the main predicate came under. Finally, segment R identifies the entity they came under, which is the control of the USSR. This arrangement creates a grammatically complete and logically sound sentence regarding the geopolitical shift in post-war Europe.

Explanation

The idiom to make a beeline for something means to move rapidly and directly toward a specific destination or object. It is derived from the observation that bees, after finding a source of nectar or returning to the hive, take the shortest and straightest path possible. In the context of the sentence, it refers to the act of heading straight toward academic activities without delay or deviation. This makes going straight and quick the most appropriate substitution for the underlined phrase.

Explanation

The original sentence is in the simple past tense, as indicated by the auxiliary did not followed by the base form of the verb slap. To convert a sentence in the simple past tense from active to passive voice, the object Kunal becomes the subject, followed by the appropriate form of the auxiliary verb be in the past tense (was or were), the negative particle not, and the past participle (V3) of the main verb. Since Kunal is a singular noun, the auxiliary was is used, and the past participle of slap is slapped. The original subject Rohit is then placed after the preposition by to complete the passive construction.

Explanation

The idiom the tip of the iceberg refers to a situation where only a small, visible part of a much larger and more complex problem is evident. This expression is derived from the physical reality of an iceberg, where approximately only ten percent of its mass is visible above the water's surface, while the remaining ninety percent remains hidden underneath. In the context of the sentence, it implies that the small protests are merely surface-level symptoms of much deeper, widespread dissatisfaction or systemic issues within the organization that are far more significant than they initially appear.

Explanation

Sentence A serves as the introductory statement because it establishes the primary subject, the world's biggest radio telescope, and its location. The subsequent sentences B, C, and D all begin with the pronoun "it," which requires the clear antecedent provided in sentence A. Following the general introduction, sentence B identifies the telescope by its specific name, the Arecibo dish. Sentence D provides a physical dimension, noting that the telescope is 300 metres across; the word "also" in this sentence functions as an additive transition that builds upon the initial description of the telescope's record-breaking scale mentioned in sentence A. Sentence C concludes the sequence by providing chronological context regarding when the structure was built. This arrangement follows a coherent logical flow from identification and naming to physical attributes and historical background.

Explanation

An optimist is a person who maintains a positive outlook and expects favorable outcomes even in difficult circumstances. This personality trait involves focusing on the potential for success and the positive aspects of life rather than dwelling on the negative. The term originates from the philosophical concept of optimism, which posits that we live in the best of all possible worlds.