SSC JHT 2023 English 100 PYQ from Paper 1 (PDF)
If you’re preparing for the SSC JHT (Junior Hindi Translator) then you will get complete SSC JHT 2023 English 100 PYQ from Paper 1 with PDF., analyzing previous year papers is one of the best ways to understand the exam pattern and improve your performance. In this post, we’ve compiled 100 important English PYQ questions from SSC JHT 2023 Paper 1. These questions cover key areas like grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and sentence correction – all essential for scoring high in the English section. Practicing these PYQs will help you identify common question types, build accuracy, and boost your confidence for the upcoming exam.
SSC JHT 2023: 100 English Previous Year Questions (PYQ)
Q.101: Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order. Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a meaningful and coherent paragraph.
A. We do not know what to do with our knowledge.
B. Machines should be fed promptly and waited upon attentively, otherwise they refuse to work or cause destruction.
C. For example, we are unable to manage our machines.
D. Science has given us superhuman powers, which we do not use properly.
A: ABDC
B: ABCD
C: ADBC
D: ADCB ✅
Correct Answer: D
Explanation:
- Sentence D introduces the main idea: science has empowered us.
- A logically follows as a problem — we don’t know how to use this power.
- C gives a specific example (machines).
- B elaborates the consequences if machines are mismanaged.
Order: D → A → C → B
Q.102: Parts of the following sentence have been given as options. Select the option that contains an error.
Sentence: She didn’t went to the party because she was feeling sick.
A: because she
B: was feeling sick
C: to the party
D: She didn’t went ✅
Correct Answer: D
Correct Sentence: She didn’t go to the party because she was feeling sick.
Explanation:
- “Did” is already in the past tense, so the main verb should be in base form.
- Incorrect: didn’t went → Correct: didn’t go
Q.103: Select the INCORRECTLY spelt word.
A: Resistence ✅
B: Assassination
C: Millennium
D: Caribbean
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: The correct spelling is “Resistance” not “Resistence”.
Q.104: Select the option that expresses the given sentence in direct speech.
Sentence: The teacher told the students to complete their homework before the deadline.
A: “Complete your homework before the deadline,” the teacher says to the students. ✅
B: “You should complete your homework before the deadline,” said the teacher.
C: “You should complete your homework before the deadline,” says the teacher to the students.
D: “Complete your homework before the deadline,” the students were instructed by the teacher.
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: The sentence is an imperative. The direct speech should retain the command structure using the original quoted instruction.
Q.105: Select the sentence which gives the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
Idiom: Hit the nail on the head
A: Amy and John went to the beach for a relaxing vacation.
B: The teacher explained the difficult concept clearly. ✅
C: Mike bought a new car from the dealership.
D: Tom missed the bus and had to walk to work.
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
“Hit the nail on the head” means to describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem.
➡️ The teacher explaining a difficult concept correctly fits the meaning.
Q.106: Select the option that expresses the given sentence in indirect speech.
Sentence: The chief cook replied, “I will not leave you.”
A: The chief cook said that he will not leave him.
B: The chief cook says that he will not leave him.
C: The chief cook said that he would not leave him. ✅
D: The chief cook replied that he would not leave you.
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: In reported speech, simple future (“will”) changes to “would” and pronouns shift accordingly.
“I will not leave you” → he would not leave him.
Q.107 Identify the error in the sentence:
Immediately after the prince got down from his horse to drink some water from the pond nearby, an eagle flew over the horse and an unicorn ran in front of him.
A: an eagle
B: the prince
C: the pond
D: an unicorn ✅
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The article “an” is incorrect before a word starting with a consonant sound.
unicorn begins with /juː/ (a ‘you’ sound), which is a consonant sound.
Correct usage: a unicorn
Q.108: Find the grammatical error:
Charith speaks so polite / with his neighbours / but they are always very rude to him.
A: but they are always very rude to him
B: Charith speaks so polite ✅
C: No error
D: with his neighbours
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
“Polite” is an adjective. After “so”, we need an adverb.
✅ Correct phrase: “so politely”
Q.109: Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the highlighted word:
Sentence: Children adore science fiction movies.
A: Discuss
B: Benefit
C: Experience
D: Despise ✅
Correct Answer: D
Explanation:
Adore means to love deeply.
Antonym: Despise – to hate intensely
Q.110: Identify the segment that contains a grammatical error:
My aunt, Sudha, has stitch / dresses for us / every year since / we were children.
A: My aunt, Sudha, has stitch ✅
B: dresses for us
C: every year since
D: we were children
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
“Has” needs a past participle form of the verb.
Incorrect: has stitch → Correct: has stitched
Q.111: What does the idiom ‘Behind the eight ball’ mean?
A: In a favourable position
B: Playing pool or billiards
C: Having eight balls as a possession
✅ D: In a difficult or disadvantaged position
Explanation:
The idiom “behind the eight ball” refers to being in a difficult or losing position, especially one with limited options or control.
Example: After missing the deadline, she was really behind the eight ball at work.
Q.112: Rearrange the sentences into a meaningful paragraph:
A. Therefore, we should make hygiene a habit since it is essential for excellent physical and mental health.
B. The art of keeping our body, mind, residence, workspace, and surroundings clean is referred to as cleanliness.
C. The cleanliness of our surroundings and environment is critical for our social and mental well-being.
D. Cleaning clothes, streets, surroundings, homes, and personal hygiene are all examples of cleanliness.
A: BACD
B: ABCD
C: CDBA
✅ D: BDCA
Explanation: The logical sequence starts with the definition (B), followed by examples (D), then its importance (C), and concludes with a recommendation (A).
Q.113: Select the most appropriate meaning of the idiom:
A man of straw
A: A man of character
B: A man with no means
✅ C: A weak or cowardly man
D: A generous man
Explanation:
“A man of straw” refers to someone weak, lacking substance, or easily manipulated.
Example: Don’t be afraid of him—he’s just a man of straw.
Q.114: Rearrange the following sentences to form a coherent paragraph:
A. You all think, don’t you, that you are nearly grown up.
B. The same thing will happen to you too.
C. I thought so when I was your age; and now, after eighty-one years of that expectation, I have not grown up yet.
D. You will escape from school only to discover that the world is a bigger school, and that you are back again in the first grade.
A: ACDB ✅
B: BACD
C: ABDC
D: ABCD
Explanation: The paragraph begins with the current belief (A), the speaker’s personal experience (C), then the lesson (D), and finally the conclusion (B).
Q.115: Identify the segment with a spelling error:
“Half the encantment of the place / was due to the fact / that it did not have / the benefit of municipal lighting.”
A: Half the encantment of the place ✅
B: was due to the fact
C: that it did not have
D: the benefit of municipal lighting
Explanation: The word “encantment” is incorrect. The correct spelling is “enchantment”, meaning magical charm or allure.
Q.116: Find the part of the sentence that contains an error:
“Some people say I take down my father but you are the only one who thinks I look similar to my mother.”
A: Some people say I take down ✅
B: only one who thinks I look
C: similar to my mother.
D: my father but you are the
Explanation:
“Take down” is incorrect. The idiomatic expression should be “take after”, meaning to resemble a parent.
Q.117: Select the most appropriate synonym of the word:
Narrow
A: Straight
B: Slender ✅
C: Curly
D: Thick
Explanation: Slender is closest in meaning to narrow, both indicating something thin in width.
Example: The narrow path led through the forest.
Q.118: Fill in the blank:
Western culture does not identify any one group or idea, but rather tendencies within cultural thought and practices that emphasize the struggle of the individual over the ________ of the collective.
A: plight ✅
B: joy
C: renege
D: delight
Explanation: “Plight” means a difficult or unfortunate situation, which contrasts with individual struggle, making it contextually appropriate.
Q.119: Select the grammatically correct sentence:
A: A old man who was found dead on a track wore a red shirt with no sleeves.
B: The old man who was found dead on an track wore the red shirt with no sleeves.
C: The old man who was found dead on the track wore a red shirt with no sleeves. ✅
D: An old man who was found dead on the track wore an red shirt with no sleeves.
Explanation: Option C is correct: “The old man… on the track…” uses proper article and noun usage.
Q.120: Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word:
Whisper
A: Murmur ✅
B: Shout
C: Plead
D: Pay
Explanation: “Murmur” means a soft, indistinct sound—closest in meaning to whisper.
Example: He whispered a murmur before leaving.
Q.121: Find the segment with an error:
“None of the suggestions that Suresh puts out are legitimate.”
A: the suggestions that
B: Suresh puts out ✅
C: None of
D: are legitimate
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
- When the sentence starts with “None of the suggestions,” the subject is plural (suggestions).
- But “Suresh puts out” implies present habitual action, which clashes with the context of legitimacy being judged now.
- Better: “None of the suggestions that Suresh has put out are legitimate.”
Q.122: Find the error in the sentence:
“Please pass me an piece of chalk that I can use for the blackboard.”
A: that I can use
B: an piece of chalk ✅
C: for the blackboard
D: Please pass me
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: “An” is used before vowel sounds. “Piece” starts with a consonant sound, so it should be: “a piece of chalk”
Q.123: Convert into indirect speech:
Rashmi told her mentor, “I can’t wait to go on vacation.”
A: Rashmi told her mentor that she couldn’t wait and went on vacation.
B: Rashmi told her mentor that she couldn’t wait to go on vacation. ✅
C: Rashmi told her mentor that she won’t be waiting to go on vacation.
D: Rashmi told her mentor whether she couldn’t wait to go on vacation.
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: “Can’t” changes to “couldn’t” in indirect speech. “That she couldn’t wait to go on vacation” is grammatically and contextually correct.
Q.124: Convert into direct speech:
The man told the crowd that he hadn’t had his food for the last three days.
A: “I don’t have my food for the last three days.”
B: “I couldn’t have my food for the last three days.”
✅ C: “I haven’t had my food for the last three days.”
D: “I won’t have my food for the last three days.”
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: Past perfect in indirect speech (hadn’t had) changes back to present perfect in direct speech.
Q.125: Meaning of the idiom ‘Weal and woe’:
A: High and low level
B: Well-wishers and critics
C: Safe and dangerous place
✅ D: Prosperity and misfortune
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: “Weal and woe” = times of joy and sorrow, success and failure.
Example: They stayed together in weal and woe.
Q.126: Select the synonym of the word ‘Insert’:
A: Fix
B: Enter ✅
C: Make
D: Assemble
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: “Insert” and “Enter” both imply placing something into another.
Example: Please insert your card into the ATM.
Q.127 Identify the grammatical error:
“We wanted to / get by to him / but he was / against saving.”
A: We wanted to
B: get by to him ✅
C: but he was
D: against saving
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: “Get by” means to survive, but here we likely want “get through to him” (to make someone understand).
Correct usage: We wanted to get through to him.
Q.128: Find the spelling error:
“By this discrimineting title / I do not intend to suggest / a rebuke / to conductors generally.”
A: By this discrimineting title ✅
B: I do not intend to suggest
C: a rebuke
D: to conductors generally
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Incorrect spelling: “discrimineting” → Correct: “discriminating”
Q.129: Find the error in the sentence:
“I don’t exactly know where the address is but I can ask people out.”
A: I don’t exactly
B: can ask people out ✅
C: address is but I
D: know where the
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: “Ask people out” means to invite on a date, which is inappropriate here.
Correct usage: “ask people” or “ask around”
Q.130: Choose the correct antonym:
The long delay had made me quite apprehensive.
A: Uneasy
B: Doubtful
C: Confident ✅
D: Shaky
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: “Apprehensive” means anxious or worried.
Antonym: Confident
Q.131: Convert to Active Voice:
A mango is eaten by John.
A: John eats a mango. ✅
B: John likes to eat a mango.
C: John is eating mango.
D: John eat a mango.
Answer: A
Explanation: Passive → Active: “is eaten by John” becomes “John eats”.
Subject + verb + object = John eats a mango.
Q.132: Find the grammatically incorrect sentence:
A: She is an American.
B: When going out in the sun, it is advisable to take an umbrella with you.
C: Ranjit couldn’t make such a blunder. He is an honourable man.
D: An university is defined by its pupils. ✅
Answer: D
Explanation: “An” is incorrect before a consonant sound.
It should be: a university, as “university” begins with a /juː/ sound.
Q.133: Convert to Active Voice:
The painting was admired by art enthusiasts from around the world.
A: The painting had been admired by art enthusiasts from around the world.
B: Art enthusiasts from around the world admired the painting. ✅
C: The painting will have been admired by art enthusiasts from around the world.
D: Art enthusiasts have been admiring the painting from around the world.
Answer: B
Explanation: Passive: “was admired” → Active: “admired”
The subject (art enthusiasts) now performs the action.
Q.134: Convert to Passive Voice:
They have already discussed the poem.
A: The poem was discussed by them.
B: The poem has already been discussed by them. ✅
C: They discussed the poem already.
D: The poem will be discussed later.
Answer: B
Explanation: “Have discussed” → passive becomes: has been discussed.
Tense is preserved; “already” is kept in correct place.
Q.135: Rearrange the sentences into a meaningful paragraph:
A. There are hundreds of acupuncture points on the body.
B. Acupuncture, a system of treatment of disease, has been practised in China for nearly five thousand years.
C. It consists of the rapid insertion of steel needles in particular spots on the body of the patient.
D. After inserting the needles, the doctor twirls it between his thumb and forefinger.
A: ACBD
B: BCDA ✅
C: CABD
D: BDCA
Answer: B
Sequence: B (intro) → C (method) → D (what is done after) → A (factual support)
Q.136: Rearrange the sentences into a meaningful paragraph:
A. It consists of a very strong vessel made of aluminium alloy, with a lid that fits tightly on the top.
B. The lid can be sealed onto the vessel by means of a rubber ring.
C. At the centre of the lid, there is a vent through which steam can escape.
D. A pressure cooker is a vessel in which food is cooked in steam under pressure.
A: DABC ✅
B: DBAC
C: BDAC
D: ABCD
Answer: A
Explanation: D (definition) → A (structure) → B (lid) → C (vent)
Q.137: Rearrange the sentences into a meaningful paragraph:
A. Li-Fi-light fidelity is similar to Wi-Fi technology.
B. The main feature includes high-speed wireless.
C. The range of data transmission is 100x faster than Wi-Fi.
D. Data transmission is done using light.
E. For better speed, Li-Fi was developed.
F. Wi-Fi is the trending domain now.
Correct sequence:
✅ B: e, f, a, c, d, b
Explanation: Start with context (e-f), then introduce Li-Fi (a), then comparisons and features.
Q.138: Fill in the blank:
The Principal _____ the back of the student who stood first in the examination.
A: patted ✅
B: broke
C: beat
D: slapped
Answer: A
Explanation: “Patted” is the appropriate word meaning to show appreciation or praise.
Q.139: Find the incorrectly spelt word:
A: Fedaration ✅
B: Cancelled
C: Consecutive
D: Independence
Answer: A
Explanation: Incorrect spelling: “Fedaration” → Correct spelling: Federation
Q.140: Convert to Passive Voice:
Sita will buy the books.
A: The books will be bought by Sita. ✅
B: The books would be bought by Sita.
C: The books are bought by Sita.
D: Sita would buy the books.
Answer: A
Explanation: “Will buy” → Passive: will be bought
Sita (subject) becomes agent.
Q.141: Idiom Meaning: Behind the times
A: To be old-fashioned ✅
B: To go crazy
C: To become worse
D: To do something without making any progress
Explanation: “To be behind the times” means not keeping up with current trends or modern ideas.
Example: His ideas about education are behind the times.
Q.142: Convert to Active Voice:
By whom was the entire house decorated?
A: Who had decorated the entire house?
B: Who decorated the entire house? ✅
C: Who will decorate the entire house?
D: Who can decorate the entire house?
Explanation:
- Passive to active: Change “By whom was” to “Who”.
- Correct: Who decorated the entire house?
Q.143: Convert to Indirect Speech:
She said to him, “I don’t believe you.”
A: He was not believed by her.
B: “Do you believe him?” she asked.
C: She said that she did not believe him. ✅
D: She said she don’t believe him.
Explanation: In indirect speech:
- Present (“don’t believe”) changes to past (“did not believe”)
- “You” becomes “him”
Q.144: Incorrectly Spelt Word:
A: Incidentally
B: Noticable ✅
C: Vicious
D: Weird
Explanation:
- Incorrect: Noticable
- Correct: Noticeable
Q.145: Correct the spelling in the sentence:
Sentence: A strict obsarvance of punctuality will increase the efficiency of the department.
A: A strict observance of punctuality will increase the efficiency of the department. ✅
B: A strikt observance…
C: …increase the eficiency…
D: …of punhuality…
Explanation:
- Correct spellings:
- observance (not obsarvance)
- efficiency (not eficiency)
- punctuality (not punhuality)
Q.146: Rearrange the sentences:
A. The competition is fierce. The measures of success are subjective.
B. Making a living as a writer has always been an elusive pursuit.
C. The critic Elizabeth Hardwick said that there were really only two reasons to write: desperation or revenge.
D. Even many people at the top of the profession can’t wholeheartedly recommend it.
A: DBCA
B: BCDA ✅
C: ACDB
D: BADC
Explanation: Start with B (topic), C (quote), D (support), A (summary).
Q.147: Rearrange the sentences (1 and 2 fixed):
1. One of the peculiarities which distinguish the present age is the multiplication of books.
A. We are flattered with repeated promises of growing wiser on easier terms.
B. Every day brings new advertisements of literary undertakings.
C. How much happiness or knowledge is advanced by the multitude of authors is not very easy to decide.
D. He that teaches us anything new that we did not know before is definitely loved as a benefactor.
2. However, some have the habit to lay two books in front of them and compile the third book at ease.
A: DBCA
✅ B: BACD
C: DCBA
D: BCAD
Explanation: Sequence: B (books coming) → A (promises) → C (doubt of benefit) → D (value of originality)
Q.148: Sentences of a paragraph are given below. While the first and the last sentences (S1 and S6) are in the correct order, the sentences in between are jumbled up. Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a meaningful and coherent paragraph.
S1. Elephants are found in India and in Africa.
A. In fact, the two are considered to be different species.
B. An African elephant is larger, with longer tusks and bigger ears.
C. In both countries they live in herds in jungles.
D. The elephants are shy animals and generally keep away from men.
S6. The elephant is a very intelligent animal.
A: BACD ✅
B: BADC
C: BDCA
D: BDAC
Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
- S1 introduces the subject — elephants in India and Africa.
- B follows logically by comparing African elephants.
- A supports that they are different species.
- C tells us about habitat.
- D ends the body with behavioral traits.
- Then comes S6, a concluding general statement.
Q.149: Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order. Arrange them in the correct order.
A. In his work Yogasutras, Patanjali outlined the foundational principles and methods of yoga (yoga aphorisms).
B. He said that the human body contains centres called Chakra and conduits called Nadi.
C. If these are activated, the body’s kundalini energy, which is a secret source of strength, might be unleashed, giving the body superhuman abilities.
D. He provides eight steps that help one to achieve mental calmness.
A: ADCB
B: BDAC
✅ C: ABCD
D: BCAD
Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
- Start with A (intro to Patanjali’s Yogasutras).
- Then B (his teachings on Chakra & Nadi).
- Follow with C (activation leads to kundalini).
- End with D (8 steps to mental calmness).
Q.150: Select the most appropriate preposition to fill in the blank.
Sentence: We had to learn all the tables ________ heart.
A: with
B: in
C: within
D: by ✅
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The correct idiomatic expression is: “learn by heart”, meaning to memorize something completely.
Example: She learned the poem by heart.
Q.151: Rearrange the sentences in the correct order:
A. The priest’s son was meditating when he saw the prince, and was very delighted.
B. The prince asked his friend to become the adviser but he refused.
C. When the priest died, the king decided to appoint the priest’s son the next adviser to his son, the prince.
D. So, he sent his son to meet his friend in the forest.
A: ABCD
B: BDCA
C: CDAB ✅
D: DABC
Explanation: C (event starts) → D (king sends prince) → A (meeting in forest) → B (refusal).
Q.152: Arrange the sentences meaningfully:
(a) The same year, Frank Drake launched the first SETI search…
(b) These first, foundational attempts…
(c) After invention of the laser in 1960…
(d) The modern scientific search for extraterrestrial intelligence began in 1959…
A: dacb ✅
B: abcd
C: dbac
D: acdb
Explanation: Starts with d (historical intro) → a (SETI) → c (technology evolution) → b (goal).
Q.153 Rearrange the sentences:
A. We have a mango tree in our village.
B. Do not eat it.
C. Just take a bite.
D. Come visit us, and I will give you a mango from there.
A: ABCD
B: ADCB
C: ADBC ✅
D: ABDC
Explanation: A (introduces mango tree) → D (invitation) → B & C (instructions) in playful order.
Q.154: Fill in the blank:
“Attempts to transition from nearly total criminalisation to partial decriminalisation of abortion have been _______ and challenging.”
A: trivial
B: facile
C: mild
D: arduous ✅
Explanation: Arduous = difficult and laborious → fits with “challenging”.
Q.155: Identify the error:
“Raju ate the mangoes greedy.”
A: Raju
B: the mangoes
C: greedy ✅
D: ate
Explanation: “Greedy” (adj) should be “greedily” (adverb) to modify verb “ate”.
Q.156: Rearrange the sentences meaningfully:
A. Fibres are thin long pieces…
B. Natural origin → plant/animal
C. Two categories: natural & artificial
D. Artificial → modified & synthetic
A: BDAC
B: ABCD
C: CDAB
D: ACDB ✅
Explanation: A (intro) → C (categories) → D (artificial) → B (natural)
Q.157: Synonym of: Sentry
A: Lawyer
B: Parent
C: Guard ✅
D: Clerk
Explanation: Sentry = Guard, especially one on duty.
Q.158: Synonym of: Imprisonment
A: Predicament
B: Development
C: Confinement ✅
D: Redemption
Explanation: Imprisonment means being confined or locked up.
Q.159: Convert to Passive Voice:
“The teacher praised the students for their hard work.”
A: The students were praised by the teacher for their hard work. ✅
B: The teacher was praised by the students for their hard work.
C: The teacher praises the students…
D: The teacher was praising…
Explanation: Correct passive voice: Subject becomes object → “The students were praised…”
Q.160: Convert to Indirect Speech:
“The cop said to the thief, ‘How have you entered the secured area?’”
A: The cop wanted to know how the thief enters the secured area.
B: The cop asked the thief how he has entered the secured area.
C: The cop asked the thief how has he entered the secured area.
D: The cop asked the thief how he had entered the secured area. ✅
Explanation: Present perfect (“have entered”) becomes past perfect (“had entered”) in indirect speech.
Q.161: Identify the segment with a grammatical error:
“Mr. Amit Kumar Singh / had worked with / us since / May 2018.”
A: had worked with ✅
B: Mr. Amit Kumar Singh
C: us since
D: May 2018
Answer: A
Explanation:
- When using “since”, we need Present Perfect, not Past Perfect.
Correct: has worked with us since May 2018.
Q.162: Arrange the sentences in a meaningful order:
A. One day, I announced that we were being given music lessons.
B. To her, music had lewd associations.
C. It was the monopoly of harlots and beggars and not meant for gentlefolk.
D. My grandmother was very disturbed.
A: ACBD
B: ABDC
C: ABCD
D: ADBC ✅
Answer: D
Explanation: Start with announcement (A) → Grandma’s reaction (D) → Her thinking (B) → Judgment (C).
Q.163: Find the grammatical error:
“The car drove / quite fastly / along the highway / towards the destination.”
A: along the highway
B: quite fastly ✅
C: The car drove
D: towards the destination
Answer: B
Explanation:
- Incorrect: fastly
- Correct: fast (already an adverb).
Q.164: Synonym of: Reprimand
A: Condemnation ✅
B: Generic
C: Endorsement
D: Honour
Answer: A
Explanation: Reprimand means to scold or criticize. Closest synonym: Condemnation.
Q.165: Convert to indirect speech:
He said, “I have been working on the project for months.”
A: He had said that he had been working on the project for months.
B: He said that he has been working on the project for months.
C: He says that he has been working on the project for months.
D: He said that he had been working on the project for months. ✅
Answer: D
Explanation: “Have been” → changes to “had been” in reported speech (past reporting verb).
Q.166: Arrange the sentences meaningfully:
(a) In reality, this accumulation is due to low production cost.
(b) It felt great until we found out what was hiding behind this trend.
(c) Drop in garment prices has made people buy more clothes.
(d) This has serious consequences on health, planet and workers’ lives.
(e) We now have five times more clothes than our grandparents had.
A: cebad ✅
B: acdbe
C: abcde
D: ecbda
Answer: A
Explanation: Start with trend (c) → result (e) → personal reaction (b) → cause (a) → impact (d).
Q.167: Convert to passive voice:
They built a new hospital in the city centre.
A: A new hospital was built in the city centre by them. ✅
B: They were building a new hospital in the city centre.
C: They have built a new hospital in the city centre.
D: A new hospital is being built in the city centre by them.
Answer: A
Explanation: Active: They built → Passive: was built by them
Q.168: Choose the correct phrase substitution:
“Despite the company’s initial setbacks, they decided to increase their commitment and invest more resources in the project to ensure its success.”
A: double trouble
B: double agent
C: double back
D: double down ✅
Answer: D
Explanation: “Double down” means to intensify commitment.
Q.169: Idiom Meaning:
“Wearing their heart on their sleeve”
A: Wasting time
B: Exposing feelings openly ✅
C: Not serious
D: Avoiding friendliness
Answer: B
Explanation: To “wear your heart on your sleeve” means to express your emotions openly.
Q.170: Antonym of the highlighted word:
Sentence: The cricketer is in sublime form.
A: Interior
B: Superior
C: Exterior
D: Inferior ✅
Answer: D
Explanation: Sublime means excellent or majestic.
Antonym: Inferior
Comprehension:
In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
Budgeting helps us save. Saving can be done by (1) _______ income and expenses. If your expenses (2) _______ your income, it means you are unable to prioritise your expenses. First, it is important to (3) _______ your expenses according to the priority. This will definitely help you to (4) _______ where most of your expenses are done. The money left after limiting the expenses is your saving and after that you can think of your (5) _______.
Passage Context (Q.171):
Sentence: Saving can be done by (1) ______ income and expenses.
A: mixing
B: subtracting
C: joining
D: segregating ✅
Correct Answer: D — segregating
Explanation:
- To save effectively, one must be able to clearly separate (segregate) income from expenses in order to track and manage them.
- Let’s examine why other options are incorrect:
- A: mixing — Mixing income and expenses leads to confusion, not savings.
- B: subtracting — This is a mathematical step, not a process of planning or organizing.
- C: joining — The opposite of what’s required in budgeting.
- D: segregating — Means classifying and separating clearly, which fits the budgeting context best.
Q.172: Blank 2: “If your expenses (2) ______ your income, it means you are unable to prioritise your expenses.”
A: recede
B: impede
C: follow
D: exceed ✅
Correct Answer: D — exceed
Explanation:
- The sentence talks about a negative budgeting scenario — when expenses are more than income.
- The correct word for something being greater than another is “exceed.”
Let’s review the options:
- A: recede — means to go back or retreat (not logical here).
- B: impede — means to obstruct or hinder.
- C: follow — doesn’t make sense with “expenses follow your income.”
- D: exceed — is the only choice that fits meaningfully: “If your expenses exceed your income…”
Q.173 – Fill in the Blank 3
“First, it is important to (3) ______ your expenses according to the priority.”
A: confirm
B: shape
C: disarrange
D: categorise ✅
Correct Answer: D — categorise
Explanation:
- The sentence discusses organizing expenses by priority.
- The best word that fits is “categorise” — i.e., to sort or group.
Why not others?
- A: confirm – means to verify, not organize.
- B: shape – vague and not specific to classification.
- C: disarrange – opposite of what’s needed.
- D: categorise – fits perfectly with “according to the priority.” ✅
Q.174 – Fill in the Blank 4: “This will definitely help you to (4) ______ where most of your expenses are done.”
A: collaborate
B: figure out ✅
C: take in
D: underestimate
Correct Answer: B — figure out
Explanation:
- You need a word that fits the idea of “understanding or identifying” where most expenses occur.
- “Figure out” means to discover or determine.
Why others are incorrect:
- A: collaborate – means to work with others.
- C: take in – means absorb (contextually vague here).
- D: underestimate – means to undervalue.
Q.175 – Fill in the Blank 5
“The money left after limiting the expenses is your saving and after that you can think of your (5) ______.”
A: investment ✅
B: deal
C: arrangement
D: contract
Correct Answer: A – investment
Explanation:
- The sentence suggests that after saving money, the next logical financial step is investing it.
- Investment refers to using saved money to gain returns — it fits the budgeting context best.
Other options are inappropriate:
- B: deal – vague and unrelated to savings.
- C: arrangement – too general.
- D: contract – more legal/business-oriented, not linked directly to personal budgeting.
Comprehension:
In the following passage, some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
Courtesy, etiquette and demeanour are words which were of (1) ___ importance till a few years ago. Formal behaviour has always been an important part of not (2) ___ workplaces, but also at schools and government organisations. However, of late, informality is being considered cool by many from this generation. This, however, leads to situations where the language and mannerism (3) ___ could be considered rude. Although language has transformed over time, there is no (4) ___ for lack of etiquette. There are definitely times and places where not displaying politeness and manners could lead to (5) ___ consequences.
Q.176 – Fill in the Blank 1
“Courtesy, etiquette and demeanour are words which were of (1) ______ importance till a few years ago.”
A: paramount ✅
B: small
C: mount
D: triumph
Correct Answer: A — Paramount
Explanation:
- The sentence suggests that courtesy, etiquette, and demeanour were considered very important in the past.
- The best word to convey “of the highest importance” is “paramount.”
Why the other options are wrong:
- B: small — opposite of the intended meaning.
- C: mount — is a verb/noun, doesn’t fit grammatically.
- D: triumph — means a great success or victory, not relevant to “importance.”
Q.177 – Fill in the Blank 2
“Formal behaviour has always been an important part of not (2) ______ workplaces, but also at schools and government organisations.”
A: trust
B: just ✅
C: rarely
D: under
Correct Answer: B — just
Explanation:
- The structure “not just A, but also B” is a common English phrase used to express emphasis or addition.
- Correct idiom: “not just workplaces, but also at schools…”
- This shows that formal behaviour is important in both places.
Why the other options don’t work:
- A: trust — doesn’t fit grammatically or contextually.
- C: rarely — makes no sense with the sentence structure.
- D: under — ungrammatical here.
Q.178 – Fill in the Blank 3
“This, however, leads to situations where the language and mannerism (3) ______ could be considered rude.”
A: communicated ✅
B: treated
C: coated
D: floated
Correct Answer: A — communicated
Explanation:
- The sentence discusses how language and behaviour are perceived, so the most logical verb is “communicated”.
- Meaning: how these mannerisms are expressed could be seen as rude.
Incorrect options:
- B: treated — doesn’t fit this context (subject is “language and mannerism”).
- C: coated — not appropriate here.
- D: floated — informal and doesn’t suit the tone.
Q.179 – Fill in the Blank 4
“Although language has transformed over time, there is no (4) ______ for lack of etiquette.”
A: service
B: browse
C: excuse ✅
D: rescue
Correct Answer: C — excuse
Explanation:
- The sentence means that even though language changes, there’s no acceptable reason for lacking etiquette. The word “excuse” fits this perfectly.
Why other options are incorrect:
- A: service — unrelated to the context.
- B: browse — a verb, contextually irrelevant.
- D: rescue — doesn’t make sense grammatically or logically.
Q.180 – Fill in the Blank 5
“There are definitely times and places where not displaying politeness and manners could lead to (5) ______ consequences.”
A: serious ✅
B: dress
C: rickety
D: drowsy
Correct Answer: A — serious
Explanation:
- Failing to be polite or mannered can result in serious consequences — both socially and professionally.
The rest:
- B: dress — grammatically and semantically wrong.
- C: rickety — refers to unstable physical structure.
- D: drowsy — refers to sleepiness, unrelated here.
Comprehension:
In the following passage some words have been deleted. Read the passage carefully and select the most appropriate option to fill in each blank.
Salsa is a (1) ______ and exhilarating Latin dance and music genre that originated in the 1960s in New York City. Fusing Cuban and Puerto Rican rhythms with jazz and other influences, Salsa is an infectious celebration of (2) ______ and rhythm. The dance is characterised by intricate footwork, dynamic spins, and (3) ______ partner interactions, expressing joy, sensuality, and cultural heritage. Salsa’s infectious beats and (4) ______ spirit have transcended borders, captivating dance enthusiasts worldwide. Whether on the dance floor or (5) ______ its rhythmic melodies, Salsa’s infectious charm unites people, bridging cultures and spreading the joy of movement and music.
Q.181 – Fill in the Blank 1
“Salsa is a (1) ______ and exhilarating Latin dance and music genre…”
A: vibrant ✅
B: bright
C: scalding
D: lifeless
Correct Answer: A — vibrant
Explanation:
- The sentence describes salsa as exhilarating, which means exciting and full of energy.
- The best word to complement that tone is “vibrant”, which means full of life and energy, often used to describe music, culture, or colors.
🟥 Why the others are incorrect:
- B: bright — fits visually, but doesn’t capture the sense of energy or rhythm.
- C: scalding — literally means very hot (physically), inappropriate here.
- D: lifeless — completely opposite in meaning.
Q.182 – Fill in the Blank 2
“Salsa is an infectious celebration of (2) ______ and rhythm.”
A: expiration
B: movement ✅
C: glamour
D: blitz
Correct Answer: B — movement
Explanation:
- Salsa is a dance, and rhythm naturally pairs with movement.
- Together, “movement and rhythm” describe the two core aspects of dance.
Other options:
- A: expiration — refers to breathing out or something ending — irrelevant.
- C: glamour — too visual, not paired with rhythm.
- D: blitz — sudden attack or campaign, inappropriate.
Q.183 – Fill in the Blank 3
“The dance is characterised by intricate footwork, dynamic spins, and (3) ______ partner interactions…”
A: depraved
B: historic
C: passionate ✅
D: impassive
Correct Answer: C — passionate
Explanation:
- Salsa dance involves intense emotional and physical expression, especially between partners — hence “passionate” interactions fits perfectly.
- It also aligns with the next phrase: “expressing joy, sensuality, and cultural heritage.”
Other options:
- A: depraved — morally corrupt, completely inappropriate.
- B: historic — unrelated to dance expression.
- D: impassive — lacking emotion — opposite of what salsa expresses.
Q.184: Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.
Passage (excerpted for context):
Salsa is a (1) _______ and exhilarating Latin dance and music genre…
…Salsa is an infectious celebration of (2) _______ and rhythm…
…Salsa’s infectious beats and (4) _______ spirit have transcended borders…
A. lazy
B. energetic ✅
C. calm
D. sloppy
Correct Answer: B. energetic
Explanation:
- The blank in number 4 describes the spirit of salsa, a vibrant and lively dance and music form. Words like “infectious beats”, “exhilarating”, and “dynamic” already convey a strong sense of energy and liveliness. Thus, the most fitting word is:
- “energetic”, which complements the tone and theme of the passage.
- The other options do not match the vibrant tone:
- “Lazy” and “calm” are too subdued.
- “Sloppy” has a negative connotation that doesn’t fit the admiration in the description.
Question 184: Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 4.
A: modest
B: energetic
C: dull
D: lazy
Correct Answer: B: energetic
Explanation:
- The sentence describes Salsa’s ability to captivate audiences. “Energetic” fits the context of infectious beats and spirit, reinforcing the lively and passionate nature of the dance.
Q.185: Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.
“…Salsa’s infectious beats and energetic spirit have transcended borders, captivating dance enthusiasts worldwide. Whether on the dance floor or (5) _______ its rhythmic melodies, Salsa’s infectious charm unites people, bridging cultures and spreading the joy of movement and music.”
A. throughout
B. across
C. though
D. through ✅
Correct Answer: D. through
Explanation:
- The sentence is comparing two scenarios:
- “on the dance floor” (physically dancing),
- and “through its rhythmic melodies” (emotionally or spiritually connecting).
- The preposition “through” best fits the context, meaning by means of or via Salsa’s music. It correctly conveys how the charm of Salsa reaches people — both on the dance floor and through its melodies.
- Why others are incorrect: “Throughout” suggests extent or duration — not suitable here.
- “Across” refers to space or direction — it doesn’t work with “its rhythmic melodies”.
- “Though” is a conjunction meaning “however” — grammatically wrong in this context.
Q.186: Which of the following reasons is NOT mentioned in the passage with regard to people leaving their jobs?
Passage Key Points:
According to a recent Fortune Magazine survey:
- 30% leave for better compensation and benefits
- 27% leave for a better career opportunity
- 27% leave for new experience
- 21% are dissatisfied with opportunities at current job
- 16% leave due to desire to change careers or industries
Other factors discussed: on-site daycare, health insurance, ski trips, laundry, etc. — perks to retain employees, not reasons for leaving.
A. Dissatisfaction with opportunities at current job
B. For new experience
C. Better compensation and benefits in new job
D. Family constraint especially after getting married ✅
Correct Answer: D. Family constraint especially after getting married
Explanation:
- Option A is directly mentioned: 21% are dissatisfied with current job opportunities.
- Option B is also mentioned: 27% leave for new experience.
- Option C is the top reason: 30% leave for better pay/benefits.
- Option D is not mentioned at all — family constraint or marriage is never discussed in the passage.
Comprehension:
Read the given passage and answer the questions that follow.
Keeping employees happy, motivated, and on the payroll is one of the key concerns to businesses these days because it’s an open market for top talent. A good employee can walk out of the door today and have a comparable or better job tomorrow. Which brings up a very important question: what would the companies do to keep away that person from even thinking about going to work elsewhere? Gone are the days when the monthly pay check and two weeks’ vacation a year were enough to keep employees happy. Employers must come up with irresistible incentives to keep top talent on board. The results of a recent survey by Fortune Magazine on why people leave their jobs shows that 30 percent leave for better compensation and benefits, 27 per cent for a better career opportunity, 27 per cent for new experience, 21 per cent are dissatisfied with opportunities at current job, and 16 percent desire to change careers or Industries. Money is no longer the only major motivator. So, is an onsite day-care centre for working parents. Paying for all or part of their health insurance? Or offering educational assistance or paying for certification? On an annual ski trip, paid foreign tours, onsite car washes and oil changes? Or free laundry and dry-cleaning facilities? Or prized stock options? Well, it could be anything as long as it can keep the employees motivated. There are perks other than monetary gains or raise in pay package which can make employees feel happy and satisfied and promote the feel-good factor.
Q.185: Select the most appropriate option to fill in blank number 5.
A: throughout
B: across
C: though
D: through
Correct Answer: D: through
Explanation: “Through its rhythmic melodies” is grammatically and contextually correct. It indicates the medium by which Salsa unites people — its melodies.
Q.186: Comprehension Passage Summary:
The passage discusses why employees leave their jobs, citing better compensation, new experiences, dissatisfaction, etc. It also explores how companies can retain talent.
Question: Which of the following reasons is NOT mentioned in the passage with regard to people leaving their jobs?
A: Dissatisfaction with opportunities at current job
B: For new experience
C: Better compensation and benefits in new job
D: Family constraint especially after getting married ✅
Correct Answer: D: Family constraint especially after getting married
Explanation: The passage does not mention family constraints as a reason for leaving jobs. The rest are directly mentioned with percentages.
Q.187: Select the most suitable title for the given passage.
A: Money – A Major Motivator for Employees
B: Challenges to Keep Employees Onboard ✅
C: Giving Employees a Feel Good Factor
D: Incentives for Employees
Correct Answer: B: Challenges to Keep Employees Onboard
Explanation: The passage focuses on the challenge faced by companies in retaining employees and the various strategies they use — hence, option B is most appropriate.
Q.188: According to the passage, what is NOT a key concern of businesses these days?
A: Motivating employees
B: Criticising the employees’ performance ✅
C: Keeping employees on payroll
D: Happiness of employees
Correct Answer: B: Criticising the employees’ performance
Explanation: The passage highlights efforts to retain, motivate, and satisfy employees. Criticism of performance is not mentioned as a concern.
Q.189: According to the passage, what is the percentage of people who are not satisfied with the opportunities at their current jobs?
A: 27%
B: 24%
C: 21% ✅
D: 14%
Correct Answer: C: 21%
Explanation: As stated: “21 per cent are dissatisfied with opportunities at current job.”
Q.190: What does the phrase “gone are the days” mean?
A: The things that are happening now will no longer happen in future
B: The things that used to happen in the past are still the same
C: The things that used to happen in the past are expected to repeat over coming days
D: The things that used to happen in the past are no longer happening now ✅
Correct Answer: D: The things that used to happen in the past are no longer happening now
Explanation: The phrase “gone are the days” expresses that something which used to happen earlier doesn’t happen anymore — just as the passage suggests.
Comprehension:
Read the given passage carefully and answer the question that follows.
In the mid-1830’s, two ambitious Parisian chemists set out to answer a question. They worked at a perfume house, distilling cakes, and by night, the men conducted experiments, hoping to discover the chemical difference between organic and inorganic material.
For centuries perfume was seen as a protection from disease, which was thought to be transmitted through infected air. They thought ‘the only indication of these infections was the smell, and thus the best way to preserve health and extend life was to purge one’s environment of these bad smells.’ Bathing, particularly in hot water, was considered a dangerous invitation to sickness.
Napoleon went through 60 bottles of perfume a month. ‘He doused himself in it, bathed in it. He drank it, diluted it with water or wine, and kept a bottle beside him on the eve of every battle.’
Q.191: Identify the fact that is true according to the passage.
A: Experiments were conducted to find out if the bathing water could be hot.
B: Bitter almonds and oranges were used to treat diseases.
C: They thought using perfume would purge the environment, thus preventing diseases. ✅
D: Bathing in hot water was considered sacred.
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: The passage states that people believed the best way to preserve health and extend life was to purge one’s environment of bad smells using perfume. Therefore, option C correctly reflects this belief.
Q.192: Select the most appropriate ANTONYM of the word “Doused” in the context of the passage.
A: Droughty ✅
B: Baffled
C: Mystified
D: Dipped
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: “Doused” means to soak or drench something in liquid. The opposite or antonym is “Droughty,” which means dry or lacking moisture, making it the best contextual antonym.
Q.193: Select the most appropriate title for the passage.
A: Two Ambitious Bakers
B: Breakthrough of Perfumes ✅
C: Napoleon – the King
D: Protection of Diseases
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The entire passage revolves around the experiments of two chemists in a perfume house and the belief in perfume’s protective qualities. Thus, “Breakthrough of Perfumes” best captures the essence of the passage.
Q.194: What is the central theme of the passage?
A: Preventive measures of a disease
B: Why Napoleon used perfume
C: How using perfume came into existence ✅
D: The distilling of cakes
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: The passage revolves around the historical use of perfume, its perceived benefits in disease prevention, and the experiments conducted to understand it better. The main focus is on how perfume use evolved and became common, hence option C is most appropriate.
Q.195: Identify the tone of the passage.
A: Emotional
B: Grandiose ✅
C: Provocative
D: Curious
Correct Answer: B
Explanation: The tone is grandiose, particularly in how the passage discusses Napoleon’s lavish use of perfume (60 bottles a month) and the historical beliefs about perfume’s role in health and disease prevention. The narrative emphasizes luxury, tradition, and dramatic actions.
Comprehension:
Read the given passage and answer the question that follows.
Sirens, mythical creatures from Greek mythology, are often depicted as beautiful, seductive beings with enchanting voices. In ancient legends, sirens were said to reside on rocky islands and use their captivating songs to lure sailors towards them, causing shipwrecks. These half-bird, half-woman creatures possessed an irresistible charm that tempted sailors to their doom. Their haunting melodies were believed to possess a hypnotic power, capable of compelling anyone who heard them to approach, despite the dangers that awaited. Sirens embodied the treacherous allure of the sea, symbolising the temptations and perils that humans face in their journeys through life. The story of Odysseus and the Sirens in Homer’s Odyssey is perhaps the most well-known tale involving these captivating creatures. Although sirens are often portrayed as malevolent, their allure and allure of their songs continue to captivate our imaginations to this day, serving as a cautionary reminder of the allure and dangers that can lie in wait, enticing us to venture into the unknown.
Q.196: Which genre of literature does the character of sirens belong to?
A: Fantasy ✅
B: Gothic
C: Romance
D: Science-fiction
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: Sirens are mythical beings from ancient Greek mythology, often associated with supernatural and imaginative elements. Such themes are a hallmark of Fantasy literature, making it the most fitting genre.
Q.197: What is the tone of the passage?
A: Excited
B: Seductive
C: Melancholic
D: Cautioning ✅
Correct Answer: D
Explanation: The passage warns readers of the dangers behind the allure of sirens, highlighting their deceptive beauty and the perils they symbolize. The reference to a “cautionary reminder” and “enticing us to venture into the unknown” confirms the cautioning tone.
Q.198: Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word in the context of the passage.
Word: Allure
A: Heartily
B: Distastefulness
C: Appeal ✅
D: Repulsion
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: In the passage, allure is described as the enchanting and irresistible attraction of sirens. The word that best matches this context is “appeal”, which means the power to attract or be interesting. The other options are either unrelated or opposite in meaning.
Q.199: Which of the following words best describes sirens, according to the passage?
A: Dangerous ✅
B: Bubbly
C: Peaceful
D: Melancholic
Correct Answer: A
Explanation: According to the passage, sirens were dangerous mythical beings who lured sailors to their doom using captivating songs and irresistible charm, leading to shipwrecks. Therefore, the word “Dangerous” most accurately describes them.
Q.200: What is the central theme of the passage?
A: Difference between sirens and mermaids
B: Future of Sirens
C: Sirens and their characteristics ✅
D: Sirens and their lifecycle
Correct Answer: C
Explanation: The passage describes sirens in detail — their appearance, behaviors, characteristics, the mythological context they appear in, and their impact on sailors. Hence, “Sirens and their characteristics” is the most appropriate central theme.
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