Supposing half a dozen or a dozen men were cast ashore from a wreck on an uninhabited island and left to their own resources, one of course, according to his capacity, would be set to one business and one to another; the strongest to dig and to cut wood, and t … read passage
When a dozen men are cast away on an imaginary island, the best educated would look for metals in rocks because
Ametals can be used to make weapons.
Bsuch an island probably has unexploited resources.
Che may find it beneath him to dig or cut or make shoes.
Dhe is suited for such work.
Pick an option to attempt
- Metals can be used to make weapons. - The passage does not mention using metals specifically for making weapons. The focus is on utilizing skills for the common benefit, not on conflict or weaponry.
- Such an island probably has unexploited resources. - While the island might have unexploited resources, the passage emphasizes assigning tasks based on each person's capabilities, not because the island is unexploited.
- He may find it beneath him to dig or cut or make shoes. - This implies a sense of superiority or disdain for other types of labor, which is not supported by the passage. The passage highlights collaboration and using each person's skills for the group's benefit.
- He is suited for such work. - The passage mentions: 'the best educated to look for iron or lead in the rocks, and to plan the channels for the irrigation of the fields.' This shows that the best educated person is assigned tasks like finding metals and planning because they are suited for such work based on their education and expertise.
Supposing half a dozen or a dozen men were cast ashore from a wreck on an uninhabited island and left to their own resources, one of course, according to his capacity, would be set to one business and one to another; the strongest to dig and to cut wood, and t … read passage
The author states that any appearance of secrecy or separateness would instantly and justly be looked upon with suspicion. From this statement we may infer that
Awhat is secret is not what is separate
Bsecrecy is not exactly the same as separateness
Cit is natural to be suspicious of secrecy
Dit only takes an instant for a relationship to deteriorate
Pick an option to attempt
- What is secret is not what is separate. - This option does not accurately capture the author's point. The passage discusses secrecy and separateness together, implying both are problematic, but it doesn't distinguish them as fundamentally different concepts in this context.
- Secrecy is not exactly the same as separateness. - This is not what the author is emphasizing. The passage treats secrecy and separateness as intertwined issues that lead to suspicion, rather than as distinct concepts to be differentiated.
- It is natural to be suspicious of secrecy. - The passage supports this inference. It states that any appearance of secrecy or separateness would 'instantly, and justly, be looked upon with suspicion,' suggesting that it is natural and reasonable to be suspicious of secrecy.
- It only takes an instant for a relationship to deteriorate. - While the passage mentions that suspicion arises instantly, it does not discuss the deterioration of relationships in this context. The focus is on the immediate reaction to secrecy, not the long-term effects on relationships.
Supposing half a dozen or a dozen men were cast ashore from a wreck on an uninhabited island and left to their own resources, one of course, according to his capacity, would be set to one business and one to another; the strongest to dig and to cut wood, and t … read passage
The instance of the shoemaker who refuses to show his source and asks for more corn and potatoes, is an example of
Aa strong bargain.
Bunfair practice.
Cthe system of barter.
Dthe intent to make trouble.
Pick an option to attempt
- A strong bargain. - This option does not fit the context. The passage describes the shoemaker's behavior as suspicious and selfish, not as a clever or advantageous negotiation.
- Unfair practice. - This is supported by the passage. The shoemaker's refusal to show the source of the bark and his intention to ask for more corn and potatoes than deserved is portrayed as unfair and selfish, leading to suspicion.
- The system of barter. - While the shoemaker's actions take place within a barter system, the passage's focus is on the fairness and openness of transactions, not on the barter system itself.
- The intent to make trouble. - Although the shoemaker's actions are suspicious, the passage does not explicitly state that he intends to make trouble. It emphasizes selfishness and unfairness rather than deliberate troublemaking.
Supposing half a dozen or a dozen men were cast ashore from a wreck on an uninhabited island and left to their own resources, one of course, according to his capacity, would be set to one business and one to another; the strongest to dig and to cut wood, and t … read passage
According to the author, whatever one's work might be
Ahardships are going to be part of it.
Bone cannot keep complaining.
Cone should expect others to assure of help and advance our labours.
Done must offer help to others in order to receive help.
Pick an option to attempt
- Hardships are going to be part of it. - This is not explicitly stated in the passage. While the passage mentions difficulties, it does not assert that hardships are an inevitable part of any work.
- One cannot keep complaining. - The passage does not mention anything about complaining. It focuses on openness and cooperation rather than attitudes towards difficulties.
- One should expect others to assure of help and advance our labours. - This is not explicitly stated. The passage emphasizes mutual support and cooperation but does not imply that one should expect others to assure help.
- One must offer help to others in order to receive help. - This aligns with the passage's message. The author suggests that openness and mutual assistance are crucial for progress, indicating that helping others and being open to receiving help are important.
Supposing half a dozen or a dozen men were cast ashore from a wreck on an uninhabited island and left to their own resources, one of course, according to his capacity, would be set to one business and one to another; the strongest to dig and to cut wood, and t … read passage
The author's belief is that for progress to happen
Aa team should consist of people with multiple talents.
Bco-operation among team members is essential.
Cone must deal with those who are secretive.
Dtransparency among all concerned is mandatory.
Pick an option to attempt
- A team should consist of people with multiple talents. - While the passage does describe people being assigned tasks according to their skills, the main focus is not on the variety of talents but on the need for cooperation and transparency.
- Co-operation among team members is essential. - This is a strong point made in the passage, emphasizing that helping each other leads to progress. However, it is not the most specific belief stated by the author.
- One must deal with those who are secretive. - The passage mentions that secrecy leads to suspicion, but it does not suggest that dealing with secretive individuals is the key to progress.
- Transparency among all concerned is mandatory. - This is the correct answer. The passage stresses that any appearance of secrecy or separateness is looked upon with suspicion and that progress is made through openness and frankness in relations.
Supposing half a dozen or a dozen men were cast ashore from a wreck on an uninhabited island and left to their own resources, one of course, according to his capacity, would be set to one business and one to another; the strongest to dig and to cut wood, and t … read passage
The writer makes a hypothesis, which can be related to
Acommunities in general.
Ban imaginary island, rich with resources.
Can ideal world of talented people.
Da primitive and unsophisticated world.
Pick an option to attempt
- Communities in general. - This is supported by the passage. The scenario described on the island serves as a metaphor for how communities should function, emphasizing cooperation and openness.
- An imaginary island, rich with resources. - While the passage does mention an imaginary island, the focus is not on the island's richness in resources but on the behavior and cooperation of the people.
- An ideal world of talented people. - The passage describes a situation where people use their talents effectively, but the main point is about cooperation and transparency, not about an ideal world of talented individuals.
- A primitive and unsophisticated world. - The passage describes a basic scenario of survival and cooperation, but it does not necessarily emphasize primitiveness or lack of sophistication.
The perennial debate over gender differences threatens to remain inconclusive. Stereotypes pertaining to male superiority and female submissiveness could be traced to earlier ages where assigned roles were needed as survival measures. But, can we today see a s … read passage
The research of a British professor of cognitive neuroimaging has succeeded in establishing that
Athe brains of men and women are alike.
Bscience needs to challenge the status quo.
Csociety must break away from attempts at stereotyping gender issues.
Dthe potential of a human brain is not directly linked to gender.
Pick an option to attempt
- The brains of men and women are alike. - The passage does not claim that the brains of men and women are exactly alike. It states that no decisive category-defining differences have been found, which is different from saying they are alike in every aspect.
- Science needs to challenge the status quo. - While the professor's research challenges existing stereotypes, the primary conclusion is not about the need for science to challenge the status quo but rather about the findings related to brain differences.
- Society must break away from attempts at stereotyping gender issues. - This is an implication of the research, but it is not the primary conclusion of the professor's findings. The research results lead to this suggestion rather than directly establishing it.
- The potential of a human brain is not directly linked to gender. - This is the correct answer. The passage states, 'Her conclusive findings establish that no brain differences can be found that are solely gender related,' which means the potential of the brain is not directly linked to gender.
The perennial debate over gender differences threatens to remain inconclusive. Stereotypes pertaining to male superiority and female submissiveness could be traced to earlier ages where assigned roles were needed as survival measures. But, can we today see a s … read passage
By referring to the world as 'gendered' the writer wants to convey that
Agender differences can be detected right from childhood.
Bsociety continues to be fixated on gender stereotypes.
Cone's gender is bound to determine one's abilities.
Dthe debate on gender differences will never be resolved.
Pick an option to attempt
- Gender differences can be detected right from childhood. - While the passage mentions that gendered toys are given to children, it does not state that actual differences can be detected from childhood. It focuses on stereotypes rather than inherent differences.
- Society continues to be fixated on gender stereotypes. - This is supported by the passage. The author talks about how 'we continue to live with notions that one's gender determines one's skills and preferences,' indicating an ongoing fixation on gender stereotypes.
- One's gender is bound to determine one's abilities. - The passage argues against this idea, stating that there are no decisive category-defining brain differences based on gender. It challenges the notion that gender determines abilities.
- The debate on gender differences will never be resolved. - While the passage acknowledges that the debate remains inconclusive, this option does not directly relate to the term 'gendered' as used by the writer.
The perennial debate over gender differences threatens to remain inconclusive. Stereotypes pertaining to male superiority and female submissiveness could be traced to earlier ages where assigned roles were needed as survival measures. But, can we today see a s … read passage
One of the dangers in adopting a binary view of the human brain is that it can
Apromote the notion of feminine and masculine traits.
Bdetermine as well as limit academic choices.
Clead to the distortion and misinterpretation of scientific data.
Dbe used to encourage male dominance and superiority.
Pick an option to attempt
- Promote the notion of feminine and masculine traits. - This is supported by the passage. The author mentions that adopting a binary view of the brain can lead to promoting stereotypes, such as considering emotional traits as feminine.
- Determine as well as limit academic choices. - While the passage does mention that a binary view can limit academic choices (e.g., girls being discouraged from science), this is not the main danger highlighted.
- Lead to the distortion and misinterpretation of scientific data. - The passage discusses how science has been misused or misinterpreted in the context of stereotypes, but this is not listed as a direct danger of adopting a binary view.
- Be used to encourage male dominance and superiority. - The passage does mention that such views can justify male dominance, but this is presented as a specific example rather than the primary danger.
The perennial debate over gender differences threatens to remain inconclusive. Stereotypes pertaining to male superiority and female submissiveness could be traced to earlier ages where assigned roles were needed as survival measures. But, can we today see a s … read passage
The writer of this passage wants to emphasise the need to
Ause new insights provided by scientific research for a better understanding of human abilities.
Bcontinuously debate issues of gender differences to achieve human progress.
Cquestion the findings of scientific inquiry into the functioning of the human brain.
Daccept gender differences as essential to the survival of the human species.
Pick an option to attempt
- Use new insights provided by scientific research for a better understanding of human abilities. - This is supported by the passage. The writer emphasizes moving beyond stereotypes and utilizing scientific research to understand the brain's potential and adaptability without being constrained by gender.
- Continuously debate issues of gender differences to achieve human progress. - While the passage discusses the debate over gender differences, the emphasis is on moving beyond the debate and stereotypes rather than continuously engaging in it.
- Question the findings of scientific inquiry into the functioning of the human brain. - The passage does not suggest questioning scientific findings but rather correcting misinterpretations and using accurate scientific insights to challenge stereotypes.
- Accept gender differences as essential to the survival of the human species. - This is contrary to the writer's message. The passage argues against the idea that gender differences determine abilities or roles.
The perennial debate over gender differences threatens to remain inconclusive. Stereotypes pertaining to male superiority and female submissiveness could be traced to earlier ages where assigned roles were needed as survival measures. But, can we today see a s … read passage
The synonym for 'stranglehold' (Para 1 ) is
Aasphyxiation
Bcontainment
Cprohibiting entry
Doverwhelming control
Pick an option to attempt
- Asphyxiation. - While 'asphyxiation' relates to suffocation, it is a more literal term and not used in the context of control or dominance in the passage.
- Containment. - 'Containment' refers to keeping something under control or within limits, but it does not convey the strong sense of dominance implied by 'stranglehold.'
- Prohibiting entry. - This means preventing access, which is not the same as having a dominant or controlling influence.
- Overwhelming control. - This is the correct synonym. 'Stranglehold' in the passage refers to a strong, restrictive influence or control over perceptions.
The perennial debate over gender differences threatens to remain inconclusive. Stereotypes pertaining to male superiority and female submissiveness could be traced to earlier ages where assigned roles were needed as survival measures. But, can we today see a s … read passage
The antonym for 'unbounded' (Para 2 ) is
Aimprisoned
Baggressive
Crestricted
Dfearful
Pick an option to attempt
- Imprisoned. - While 'imprisoned' suggests confinement, it is a stronger term than what is needed as an antonym for 'unbounded,' which generally means without limits or boundaries.
- Aggressive. - 'Aggressive' is not related to the concept of being bounded or unbounded, so it does not serve as a suitable antonym.
- Restricted. - This is the correct antonym. 'Unbounded' means without limits or boundaries, so 'restricted,' meaning limited or constrained, is an appropriate opposite.
- Fearful. - 'Fearful' is not related to the concept of being bounded or unbounded and thus is not a suitable antonym.
Although he is recovering from his illness, he has to follow certain diet restrictions. He cannot eat junk food. Please do not pity him and _______________
Agive him some snack
Bcut him some slack
Cbe slack with his eating
Dcut down the snacks
Pick an option to attempt
The blank needs an idiom meaning to be lenient or forgiving with someone.
Option 1 -> give him some snack -> directly contradicts the diet restrictions mentioned in the context.
Option 2 -> cut him some slack -> means to be lenient or give someone a break, which fits the context perfectly.
Option 3 -> be slack with his eating -> grammatically awkward and doesn't form a proper idiom.
Option 4 -> cut down the snacks -> means to reduce snacks, but doesn't address being understanding toward him.
When someone is going through a tough time, like recovering from illness with strict diet rules, you might want to cut them some slack. This means being understanding and not being too hard on them for their limitations or mistakes - basically giving them the benefit of the doubt and some extra patience.
The problems may be difficult, but all you have to do is __________ as long as you can.
Ahang in up there
Bhang on there
Chang on to that
Dhang in there
Pick an option to attempt
The blank needs a phrasal verb meaning to persevere or endure difficult circumstances.
Option 1 -> hang in up there -> incorrect combination; mixes 'hang in' and 'hang up' making it grammatically wrong.
Option 2 -> hang on there -> means to wait or hold on, but lacks the perseverance meaning needed here.
Option 3 -> hang on to that -> means to keep holding something physically or mentally, not about enduring hardship.
Option 4 -> hang in there -> means to persevere through difficult times and not give up.
When life throws you curveballs and everything seems to be going wrong, the best advice someone can give you is to hang in there. It's like being a fighter who's getting knocked around but refuses to throw in the towel - you keep pushing forward despite the challenges because better days are coming.
The standards set by the examination board are so high that it would be difficult for poorly prepared students to __________
Apass most errors
Bpast muster
Cget past most errors
Dpass muster
Pick an option to attempt
The blank needs an idiom meaning to meet required standards or be considered acceptable.
Option 1 -> 'pass most errors' -> not a standard idiom; grammatically incorrect construction.
Option 2 -> 'past muster' -> incorrect word choice; 'past' should be 'pass' in this idiom.
Option 3 -> 'get past most errors' -> means to overcome mistakes, but doesn't relate to meeting standards.
Option 4 -> 'pass muster' -> means to meet required standards or be deemed acceptable.
When something passes muster, it meets the minimum standards required and is considered good enough. Originally a military term where soldiers had to 'pass' inspection during 'muster' (roll call), today it means anything that makes the grade - like a student's essay that passes muster with a tough teacher.
After all the alliances and arithmetic, the party is likely to ________ a majority in the assembly election.
Ascrape through
Bscrape together
Ctape together
Dshape together
Pick an option to attempt
The blank needs a phrasal verb meaning to barely manage to achieve or obtain something with difficulty.
Option 1 -> scrape through -> means to barely pass or succeed, but doesn't fit the context of obtaining a majority.
Option 2 -> scrape together -> means to manage to collect or gather something with difficulty, fitting perfectly for achieving a majority.
Option 3 -> tape together -> means to join things with tape, which doesn't make sense in political context.
Option 4 -> shape together -> is not a standard phrasal verb and doesn't fit the meaning needed.
When a political party works hard to gather just enough support to win, they scrape together a majority. It's like collecting coins from under couch cushions - you're gathering what you need bit by bit, often with considerable effort and barely managing to get enough.
I'll have to _________ because I don't know how Sheila's parents are going to react to this offer.
Acount on my fingers
Bface the music
Cbreak the ice
Dplay it by ear
Pick an option to attempt
The blank needs an idiom meaning to handle a situation spontaneously without a fixed plan.
Option 1 -> count on my fingers -> means to use fingers for basic counting, not relevant to handling uncertain situations.
Option 2 -> face the music -> means to accept consequences or confront unpleasant situations, not about improvising.
Option 3 -> break the ice -> means to initiate conversation or ease tension in social situations, not about uncertainty.
Option 4 -> play it by ear -> means to handle a situation without a predetermined plan, adapting as circumstances unfold.
When you play it by ear, you're handling a situation without a script or fixed plan, just like a musician who plays music by listening rather than reading sheet music. You're staying flexible and making decisions as you go, adapting to whatever comes your way in the moment.
If you had been more alert, this golden opportunity would not have __________
Aescaped your fingers
Bslipped off
Cescaped away
Dslipped through your fingers
Pick an option to attempt
The blank needs an idiom meaning to miss or lose a valuable opportunity.
Option 1 -> escaped your fingers -> not a standard English idiom; incorrect construction.
Option 2 -> slipped off -> means to fall or slide away, but doesn't specifically relate to missing opportunities.
Option 3 -> escaped away -> redundant phrasing; 'escaped' alone would be sufficient, making this grammatically awkward.
Option 4 -> slipped through your fingers -> correct idiom meaning to lose or miss a valuable opportunity despite having it within reach.
When a great opportunity slips through your fingers, it means you had a chance to grab something valuable but failed to hold onto it. Like trying to catch water with your bare hands, the opportunity just flows away despite being right there for the taking.
The place where her father disappeared and the reason why he did are unknown to her.
Aher father disappeared and the reason why he did
Bwhere her father disappeared and the reason he did
Cher father disappeared and the reason he did
Dwhere her father disappeared and the reason why he did
Pick an option to attempt
This question tests parallel structure and avoiding redundancy.
Parallel structure means matching grammatical forms in related sentence parts. Think of it like matching socks-both elements should have the same 'style.' Also, we avoid redundant words when the meaning is already clear, like saying 'the reason why' when 'the reason' alone works perfectly.
Option 1 -> Missing 'where' breaks the parallel structure completely.
Option 2 -> Perfect parallel structure: both parts match grammatically and concisely.
This question tests comparative vs. superlative forms.
When comparing two things, use comparative forms like 'better' or 'worse.' When comparing three or more things, use superlative forms like 'best' or 'worst.' Think of it like a race: two runners compete for who's 'faster,' but three or more compete for who's 'fastest.'
Option 1 -> Uses 'best' for two teams-like calling a two-person race 'fastest.'
Option 2 -> Same 'best' problem, plus 'one of' suggests more teams exist.
Option 3 -> 'Better' is right, but 'one team' sounds awkwardly redundant here.
Option 4 -> Perfect! Uses 'better' for two teams with clean, direct phrasing.
After sensing a problem with the factory workers, the personnel officer demanded to know who the union leaders had contacted to conduct the petition drive.
Awhom the union leaders had contacted
Bwho had the union leaders had contacted
Cwhom the union leaders have contacted
Dwho union leaders contacted
Pick an option to attempt
This question tests who vs. whom usage and verb tense consistency.
Think of 'who' as the doer (like 'he') and 'whom' as the receiver (like 'him'). If you can substitute 'him,' use 'whom.' Example: 'To whom did you give the cookie?' (You gave it to him, not he.)
His wrongdoing was completely exposed, but not once he apologised for his actions.
Anot once did he apologise
Bnever he made an apology
Cnot once did he give apology
Dnot once he made an apology
Pick an option to attempt
This question tests inversion after negative adverbials.
When you start a sentence with negative words like 'not once,' 'never,' or 'rarely,' English demands you flip the usual word order-like doing a grammatical backflip! The auxiliary verb jumps in front of the subject. Think of it like 'Never have I seen such chaos!' instead of the awkward 'Never I have seen such chaos!'
Option 1 -> ✓ Perfect inversion: 'did' leaps before 'he' like a grammatical gymnast.
Option 2 -> ✗ Missing inversion after 'never'-sounds like broken robot English.
Option 3 -> ✗ Good inversion, but forgot 'an' before 'apology'-almost there!
Option 4 -> ✗ No inversion after 'not once'-sounds clunky and unnatural.
The Municipal Council can no longer wash its hands off its responsibilities.
Awash its hands from its
Bwash their hands off their
Cwash their hand of their
Dwash its hands of its
Pick an option to attempt
This question tests idiomatic expressions and pronoun agreement with collective nouns.
The idiom 'wash one's hands of something' means to refuse responsibility for something-like saying 'I'm done with this mess!' Municipal Council is a singular collective noun (like 'team' or 'company'), so it takes the singular pronoun 'its,' and the idiom specifically requires the preposition 'of.'
The letter states that one can avail the service offered by the company till June 20, 2019.
Aavail the service on offer from
Bavail the service on offer by
Cavail of the service offered by
Davail of the service offered from
Pick an option to attempt
This question tests the correct usage of 'avail of' and prepositions with service providers.
'Avail' means to take advantage of something, but in formal English it needs its trusty sidekick 'of' - like 'avail yourself OF the opportunity.' Plus, services are 'offered BY' companies, not 'from' them (companies aren't locations!).
Option 1 -> Missing 'of' after avail - like Batman without Robin.
Option 2 -> Also missing 'of' - still incomplete without this essential preposition.
__________________ Infrastructure, in the form of paved surfaces, disrupts water absorption and lowers water retention. This leads to disastrous levels of flooding which diminishes the biodiversity and impoverishes the people of the region. Land should be used mindfully to prevent water logging during heavy rains.
AClimate change is not the only cause for flooding.
BFlooding can happen after heavy or low rainfall.
CInfrastructure can actually cause a lot of trouble during flooding.
DWater retention is less important to prevent flooding.
Pick an option to attempt
- Climate change is not the only cause for flooding.
Reasoning: This sentence sets up the discussion by introducing the idea that there are other factors contributing to flooding, leading naturally into the explanation about infrastructure.
- Flooding can happen after heavy or low rainfall.
Reasoning: This sentence does not set up the specific discussion about infrastructure's role in flooding as effectively.
- Infrastructure can actually cause a lot of trouble during flooding.
Reasoning: This sentence is somewhat redundant since the subsequent sentences already explain how infrastructure causes flooding problems.
- Water retention is less important to prevent flooding.
Reasoning: This sentence is incorrect as it contradicts the passage's message about the importance of water retention in preventing flooding.
Few look forward to old age and all that it brings in its wake - deteriorating health, loss of vigour, restricted mobility, increasing dependence on others, not to mention a sense of foreboding and anxiety. Yet, one has to learn to cope with the onset of old age. Firstly, it is imperative to prepare to accept old age in spite of the restrictions or limitations it imposes on one's mobility. Equally important is the need to adopt a positive attitude towards life. _______________Above all, peace of mind, is the efficacious balm that brings equanimity to one's life. We must resign ourselves to growing old, and in the process let us try to make life as fulfilling and meaningful as possible.
AThe role of humour and fun are indispensable as these are the spice of life and guaranteed to bring cheer and bonhomie, besides keeping one's mind off life's grim realities.
BOwing to advances in medical science, we can now expect to live well beyond 90 years.
CPhysical debility and stiffening body joints 'creaking' in protest may make mobility difficult - something one should learn to take in one's stride stoically.
DTurning nostalgic and recalling 'those good old days' when they were young and life was radically different from what it is today, help one accept old age.
Pick an option to attempt
- The role of humour and fun are indispensable as these are the spice of life and guaranteed to bring cheer and bonhomie, besides keeping one's mind off life's grim realities.
Reasoning: This option fits best as it complements the idea of adopting a positive attitude towards life and aligns with the passage's emphasis on finding ways to cope with old age.
- Owing to advances in medical science, we can now expect to live well beyond 90 years.
Reasoning: This option shifts the focus to life expectancy rather than coping mechanisms, making it less relevant to the passage's theme of adopting a positive attitude.
- Physical debility and stiffening body joints 'creaking' in protest may make mobility difficult - something one should learn to take in one's stride stoically.
Reasoning: This option, while relevant, focuses more on physical limitations and acceptance rather than on the proactive and positive attitude emphasized in the passage.
- Turning nostalgic and recalling 'those good old days' when they were young and life was radically different from what it is today, help one accept old age.
Reasoning: This option is less relevant as it focuses on nostalgia rather than the proactive attitude and coping mechanisms discussed in the passage.
The Arab Spring is widely believed to have stemmed from dissatisfaction with the rule of local governments, though some have speculated that wide gaps in income levels may have had a hand as well. Issues such as political corruption, human rights violations, unemployment, and educated but dissatisfied youth may have been responsible as well._____________________.
AThus, youth unrest was the main reason for the Arab Spring
BSome also cite the 2009-10 Iranian election protests as one of the reasons behind the Arab Spring
CThe Arab Spring was due to the wide gap between the haves and the have-nots
DTo sum up, the Arab Spring was a series of anti-government protests, uprisings, and armed rebellions across the Arab world
Pick an option to attempt
The sentence talks about different reasons that may have caused the Arab Spring, like political problems, unemployment, and youth dissatisfaction.
Option 2 -> introduces another related event, the 2009-10 Iranian election protests, which also might have influenced the Arab Spring. This makes it a good fit because it adds another factor to what was already mentioned!
Option 1 (youth unrest) -> is too narrow and doesn't cover all the factors mentioned.
Option 3 (wide gap between the rich and poor) -> is already part of what's mentioned in the passage.
Option 4 -> just a general summary and doesn't directly continue the thought from the sentence.
One who is ____________ gets on with his job in spite of obstacles, while the one who is __________ hardly shows any progress. The latter spends all his time ___________ about his troubles.
Aartful, doubtful, speaking
Bassiduous, querulous, whining
Chardworking, dishonest, gossiping
Dhotheaded, scared, crying
Pick an option to attempt
artful, doubtful, speaking
* Artful: Clever or skillful, especially in a crafty or cunning way. Not relevant to overcoming obstacles. * Doubtful: Feeling uncertain about something. Not fitting as an opposite to getting on with the job. * Speaking: Simply means talking. Does not specifically relate to complaining.
This option is incorrect because the words do not accurately reflect the context of overcoming obstacles and lack of progress due to complaining.
assiduous, querulous, whining
* Assiduous: Showing great care, attention, and effort; diligent. Fits perfectly with overcoming obstacles. * Querulous: Complaining in a petulant or whining manner. Fits as an opposite to being assiduous. * Whining: Complaining in a feeble or petulant way. Accurately describes spending time complaining.
This option is correct because the words fit well with the context of diligence and complaining.
hardworking, dishonest, gossiping
* Hardworking: Putting a lot of effort into work. Fits with overcoming obstacles. * Dishonest: Not honest; likely to lie or cheat. Does not fit as an opposite to hardworking in this context. * Gossiping: Talking about other people's private lives. Not specifically about complaining about one's troubles.
This option is incorrect because 'dishonest' does not relate to lack of progress due to complaining, and 'gossiping' is not the best fit.
hotheaded, scared, crying
* Hotheaded: Easily angered or excited. Not related to overcoming obstacles. * Scared: Fearful or frightened. Not fitting as an opposite to hotheaded in this context. * Crying: Shedding tears. Does not specifically relate to complaining about troubles.
This option is incorrect because the words do not accurately reflect the context of diligence and lack of progress due to complaining.
The ___________ of multiculturalism, in times of war or economic ____________ tribalism is what causes those in power to confine groups of people with different _________ into ghettos or in communes on the margins of their cities.
Arise, doldrums, ideologies
Btyranny, growth, habits
Cantithesis, prosperity, persuasions
Dopposite, distress, ethnicities
Pick an option to attempt
rise, doldrums, ideologies
* Rise: An increase or growth. Not fitting in the context of causing confinement during war or economic hardship. * Doldrums: A state of inactivity or stagnation. This fits well with economic hardship but is not a strong fit for the overall sentence. * Ideologies: Sets of beliefs or principles. Not the best fit for what causes confinement.
This option is incorrect because 'rise' and 'ideologies' do not fit well in the context of the sentence.
tyranny, growth, habits
* Tyranny: Cruel and oppressive government rule. Fits well with causing confinement. * Growth: An increase in size or importance. Not fitting in the context of economic hardship. * Habits: Regular practices or routines. Not fitting for describing groups of people.
This option is incorrect because 'growth' and 'habits' do not fit well in the context of the sentence.
antithesis, prosperity, persuasions
* Antithesis: Direct opposite. Fits well in the context of multiculturalism. * Prosperity: Wealth or success. Not fitting in the context of economic hardship. * Persuasions: Beliefs or convictions. Fits well for describing groups of people.
This option is incorrect because 'prosperity' does not fit well in the context of war or economic hardship.
opposite, distress, ethnicities
* Opposite: Completely different. Fits well in the context of multiculturalism. * Distress: Extreme anxiety, sorrow, or pain. Fits well with economic hardship. * Ethnicities: Social groups with a shared culture or heritage. Fits well for describing groups of people.
This option is correct because all the words fit well in the context of the sentence.
That the artiste went about systematically to get traditional _________ back into the mainstream, and to __________ a textile culture for dance is to be celebrated.
Apractices, processed
Bmotifs, create
Ctotems, evolved
Dstories, described
Pick an option to attempt
practices, processed
* Practices: Traditional customs or habits. Fits well with getting them back into the mainstream. * Processed: Treated or prepared through a special process. Does not fit well in the context of creating a textile culture for dance.
This option is incorrect because 'processed' does not fit well in the context.
motifs, create
* Motifs: Decorative designs or patterns. Fits well with traditional elements in textiles. * Create: Brought into existence. Fits well with the context of creating a textile culture for dance.
This option is correct because both words fit well in the context of the sentence.
totems, evolved
* Totems: Symbols or emblems, often with cultural significance. Not as fitting in the context of traditional textile designs. * Evolved: Developed gradually. Does not fit as well in the context of creating a textile culture for dance.
This option is incorrect because 'totems' and 'evolved' do not fit as well in the context.
stories, described
* Stories: Narratives or tales. Not fitting well in the context of traditional textile elements. * Described: Given a detailed account. Does not fit well in the context of creating a textile culture for dance.
This option is incorrect because 'stories' and 'described' do not fit well in the context.
In response to my friend's request, I decided to write her a letter, which I hoped would be honest and practical, while also serving as a _________ of sorts for my own feminist thinking. This book is a ________ of that letter, with some details changed.
Amap, version
Bchart, form
Cbase, fallout
Dguide, precis
Pick an option to attempt
Precis = means a summary, which is shorter than the original. So calling a book a 'precis' of a letter (which is usually short) is illogical. Hence, option 4 is eliminated.
Chart = usually data-focused; not natural in metaphorical or philosophical writing. Hence, option 2 is eliminated.
✓ Option 1:
'Map' of sorts = figurative; maps represent journeys -> here it metaphorically represents the journey or layout of feminist thinking. Common phrase: 'a map of the soul', 'a map of ideas'.
'Version' = A slightly altered form of the original. Fits well for a book derived from a letter.
Quantum Physics really begins to point to this discovery. It says that you can't have a Universe without mind __________ into it, and that the mind is actually __________ the very thing that is being __________.
Agetting, creating, acknowledged
Bintruding, making, construed
Centering, shaping, perceived
Dpenetrating, forming, seen
Pick an option to attempt
getting, creating, acknowledged
* Getting: Acquiring or coming into possession of. Not fitting well with the idea of mind's role in the universe. * Creating: Bringing something into existence. Fits well with the context. * Acknowledged: Recognized or accepted. Does not fit well with the idea of being perceived or observed.
This option is incorrect because 'getting' and 'acknowledged' do not fit well in the context.
intruding, making, construed
* Intruding: Entering without permission. Not fitting well with the idea of mind's role in the universe. * Making: Creating or producing. Fits well with the context. * Construed: Interpreted or understood. Does not fit well with the idea of being perceived or observed.
This option is incorrect because 'intruding' and 'construed' do not fit well in the context.
entering, shaping, perceived
* Entering: Coming or going into. Fits well with the idea of the mind's involvement. * Shaping: Influencing or forming. Fits well with the context. * Perceived: Seen or observed. Fits well with the idea of being observed.
This option is correct because all the words fit well in the context of the sentence.
penetrating, forming, seen
* Penetrating: Entering or piercing. Not fitting well with the idea of the mind's role in the universe. * Forming: Creating or shaping. Fits well with the context. * Seen: Observed or viewed. Fits well with the idea of being perceived. This option is partially correct, but 'penetrating' does not fit as well as 'entering' in the context.
One of the statements below contains a word used incorrectly. Choose the option which has the incorrect or inappropriate usage of the word.
AThe emperor ordered the arrest of his most vocal critic.
BThere are very few film critics left in our city.
CMahatma Gandhi's critic of the West remains relevant to this day.
DHis classmates warned him, 'It is not a good idea to critique our Principal.'
Pick an option to attempt
The question is testing for word usage between critic, criticism, and critique.
A critic is a person who judges, evaluates, or finds fault with something. Think of that friend who always has something negative to say about every movie you watch together - they're being a critic. Movie critics write reviews telling you whether films are worth your time and money.
Criticism refers to the act of criticizing or the critical comments themselves. When your teacher gives you feedback on your essay pointing out what needs improvement, that's criticism. It's the actual content or process of critical evaluation, not the person doing it.
To critique means to analyze and evaluate something critically, usually in a detailed way. When you critique a piece of art, you're examining it carefully to assess its strengths and weaknesses.
Option 1 -> Correct usage. 'Critic' properly refers to a person who criticizes the emperor.
Option 2 -> Correct usage. 'Critics' properly refers to people who review films professionally.
Option 3 -> Incorrect usage. Should be 'criticism' (the act/content of critical analysis) rather than 'critic' (a person).
Option 4 -> Correct usage. 'Critique' is properly used as a verb meaning to criticize.
One of the statements below contains a word used incorrectly. Choose the option which has the incorrect or inappropriate usage of the word.
AThe river teemed with salmon and trout.
BThe wedding was teamed in Bhojpuri style.
CWhich team will win this year's IPL tournament?
DThe film star wore a purple suit teamed with a crimson tie.
Pick an option to attempt
The question is testing for word usage between teemed, teamed, team, and themed.
Teemed means to be full of or swarming with something. If your backyard pond teemed with frogs, you'd hear a chorus of croaking every evening as hundreds of little amphibians make themselves known.
Teamed means to work together as a group or to pair/combine something with something else. When a fashion designer teamed a vintage blazer with modern skinny jeans, they created a perfect blend of old and new styles.
Team refers to a group of people working together toward a common goal. Whether it's your school's basketball team trying to win the championship or your study team preparing for finals, everyone works together.
Themed means designed around a particular subject or style. A themed party might transport guests to a 1920s speakeasy or a tropical paradise, with decorations and activities all matching that specific concept.
Option 1 -> Correct usage. The river was full of/swarming with fish.
Option 2 -> Incorrect usage. Should be 'themed' (designed in Bhojpuri style), not 'teamed.'
Option 3 -> Correct usage. 'Team' as a noun referring to a sports group.
Option 4 -> Correct usage. The suit was paired/combined with the tie.
One of the statements below contains a word used incorrectly. Choose the option which has the incorrect or inappropriate usage of the word.
ALast week we learnt about the right way to greet our customers.
B"Get it write the first time" is an often-heard management slogan.
CIn India, driving on the Right side of the road is wrong.
DThe rite of afternoon tea is described in many of Enid Blyton's books.
Pick an option to attempt
The question is testing for word usage between right, write, and rite.
If you're taking a math test and you get the answer '42' when it should be '24,' your teacher might circle it in red pen and write 'wrong!' next to it. But if you got '24,' she'd probably put a checkmark because that's the right answer - meaning the correct or proper one.
When you sit down with a pen and paper to jot down your grocery list or compose a love letter, you write. It's the physical act of forming letters and words, whether you're scribbling notes in the margins of your textbook or crafting the next great American novel.
A rite is like a special ceremony or ritual that has deep meaning. Think of graduation day - walking across the stage to receive your diploma is a rite of passage that marks your transition from student to graduate. It's more formal and ceremonial than just any old routine.
Option 1 -> Uses 'right' correctly to mean the proper or correct way to greet customers.
Option 2 -> Incorrectly uses 'write' when it should be 'right' - the slogan should be 'Get it right the first time.'
Option 3 -> Uses 'Right' correctly to refer to the right side of the road (opposite of left side).
Option 4 -> Uses 'rite' correctly to describe the ceremonial practice of afternoon tea.
One of the statements below contains a word used incorrectly. Choose the option which has the incorrect or inappropriate usage of the word.
AThe attackers decided to raise the castle to the ground.
BThey raised their children to be freethinking boys and girls.
CTo raise a toast to a newly-wed couple is a common practice.
DThe rays of the sun rose above the mountain.
Pick an option to attempt
The question is testing for word usage between raise and raze.
Raise is what you do when you lift something up, like raising your hand in class when you know the answer, or what parents do when they bring up their children with love and care. Think of it as making something go higher or helping something grow.
Raze means to completely destroy or demolish something, usually a building or structure. When a city decides to raze an old building, they're tearing it down to the ground, leaving nothing but rubble. It's the opposite of building something up - it's wiping it out completely.
Option 1 -> Uses 'raise' instead of 'raze.' Attackers would 'raze' (destroy) a castle to the ground, not 'raise' (lift up) it.
Option 2 -> Correctly uses 'raised' to mean bringing up or nurturing children.
Option 3 -> Correctly uses 'raise' in the idiom 'raise a toast,' meaning to lift glasses in celebration.
Option 4 -> Correctly uses 'rose' as the past tense of 'rise,' describing the sun's rays appearing above the mountain.
One of the statements below contains a word used incorrectly. Choose the option which has the incorrect or inappropriate usage of the word.
AShakespeare is sometimes referred to as a bard.
BHe barred his soul to the preacher.
CBecause of his age, he was barred from entering the theatre.
DThe Bar barred all bards.
Pick an option to attempt
The question is testing for word usage between bard, barred, and bared.
A bard is a poet or storyteller, especially one who composes and recites epic or lyric poetry. Think of Shakespeare as the ultimate bard - he crafted beautiful verses and told incredible stories that still captivate audiences centuries later. If you're the person in your friend group who always has a witty poem or dramatic story ready, you're channeling your inner bard.
To bar (or barred in past tense) means to block, prevent, or prohibit access to something. Picture a bouncer at a club who bars underage people from entering, or imagine putting metal bars on your windows to bar burglars from breaking in. When something is barred, it's essentially being given a big 'NO ENTRY' sign.
To bare (or bared in past tense) means to expose, reveal, or uncover something that was previously hidden. When you bare your soul to someone, you're opening up completely and showing your deepest thoughts and feelings - like taking off emotional armor to reveal your true self underneath.
Option 1 -> Correct usage. Shakespeare is indeed famously known as a bard (poet/storyteller).
Option 2 -> Incorrect usage. Should be 'bared his soul' (exposed/revealed his innermost feelings), not 'barred his soul' (blocked his soul).
Option 3 -> Correct usage. 'Barred' means prevented or prohibited from entering due to age restrictions.
Option 4 -> Correct usage. The legal profession (Bar) prohibited all poets (bards) - uses both 'barred' and 'bards' correctly.
The sentences given below, when properly sequenced, form a coherent paragraph. Each sentence is labelled with a number. Decide on the most logical order and enter the sequence of numbers in the space provided.
- He just harvested the wild grains. - The hunter-gatherer went from place to place in search of food. - As the crops began to give better yields, this reduced his need to go in search of animals and wild plants. - This was followed by an attempt to grow food by scattering the spare grains.
Enter your answer to attempt
The passage talks about transition from hunter-gatherer lifestyle to early agriculture.
Link A (2 -> 1): The hunter-gatherer searching for food naturally leads to harvesting wild grains as part of gathering activities.
Link B (1 -> 4): After harvesting wild grains, 'This was followed by' refers to the next step of scattering the spare grains to attempt cultivation.
Link C (4 -> 3): 'As the crops began to give better yields' follows from the attempt to grow food, with 'this reduced his need' referencing back to the original hunting-gathering behavior from sentence 2.
Introduction: Sentence 2 is the introducing sentence because it establishes the hunter-gatherer's original lifestyle and food-seeking behavior.
Conclusion: Sentence 3 is the concluding sentence because it shows the final outcome of transitioning from hunting-gathering to agriculture.
Assembling: The sequence follows chronological progression from nomadic hunting to settled farming with clear time markers and logical cause-effect relationships.
The sentences given below, when properly sequenced, form a coherent paragraph. Each sentence is labelled with a number. Decide on the most logical order and enter the sequence of numbers in the space provided.
- People here are one injury away from starvation, one misspoken word away from detainment or death. - Soon, however, she notices the lack of access to basic medical care or education. - Life in a rural Kashmiri village seems idyllic to Shalini at first, as she's befriending lovely people and admiring majestic natural scenery, especially in contrast to the cacophony of urban Mumbai. - Moreover, the ever-present political disruptions mean that life in Kashmir is far from Shangri-La utopia.
Enter your answer to attempt
The passage talks about Shalini's changing perception of life in Kashmir
Link A (3 -> 2): 'Soon, however, she notices' shows time progression and contrast, with 'she' referring back to Shalini from sentence 3
Link B (2 -> 1): Sentence 1 elaborates on the 'lack of access to basic medical care' mentioned in sentence 2 with specific harsh realities
Link C (1 -> 4): 'Moreover' adds another layer of problems to the harsh conditions described in sentence 1
Introduction: Sentence 3 is the introducing sentence because it introduces Shalini and sets up her initial positive impression
Conclusion: Sentence 4 is the concluding sentence because it provides the final reality check about Kashmir not being utopian
Assembling: The sequence moves from initial positive impression to gradual realization of harsh realities in Kashmir
The sentences given below, when properly sequenced, form a coherent paragraph. Each sentence is labelled with a number. Decide on the most logical order and enter the sequence of numbers in the space provided.
- The study, published in the Lancet recently, revealed that people living in democratic countries live longer than those who don't; they also have less of a chance of dying from heart disease, strokes, and even road accidents. - Incredible as it may sound, we are now told that democracy is not just good for the soul, it is good for the body too. - Without pressure from voters or foreign-aid agencies, dictators have less incentive to finance more expensive prevention and treatment of heart disease, cancers, and other chronic illnesses. - The study suggests that elections and the health of the people are increasingly inseparable. - A study spanning 170 countries found a strong correlation between health and the most form of government.
Enter your answer to attempt
The passage talks about democracy's surprising connection to public health outcomes.
Link A (5 -> 1): 'The study' in sentence 1 specifically refers back to 'A study' mentioned in sentence 5.
Link B (1 -> 4): 'The study suggests' in sentence 4 continues referencing the same study detailed in sentence 1.
Link C (4 -> 3): Sentence 4 establishes elections-health connection; sentence 3 explains why through dictators' lack of incentive.
Introduction: Sentence 2 is the introducing sentence because it presents the surprising claim about democracy and health.
Conclusion: Sentence 3 is the concluding sentence because it provides the explanatory mechanism for the democracy-health connection.
Assembling: The sequence flows from surprising claim to study evidence to detailed findings to interpretation to explanation.