IBSAT Verbal Ability Sample Question Paper with Answer Key PDF available now

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The sentence presents a cause-and-effect relationship in an economic context. We need to find a pair of words that logically completes this relationship. The structure is "The [reason/idea] was that the cheaper the [economic factor] rate, the better it is for the industry."


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Let's analyze the options:

(A) hope...... tax: "The hope was that the cheaper the tax rate..." This makes sense, but the second part, "...the better it is for the industry," is a well-established economic principle, not just a hope.



(B) logic......interest: "The logic was that the cheaper the interest rate the better it is for the industry." This fits perfectly. Lower interest rates make borrowing money cheaper for businesses, encouraging investment and expansion, which is beneficial for the industry. This is a standard economic logic.



(C) assumption ....consumption: "The assumption was that the cheaper the consumption rate..." "Consumption rate" is not a standard economic term in this context.



(D) belief ....... depreciation: "The belief was that the cheaper the depreciation rate..." A lower depreciation rate for tax purposes can be beneficial, but "interest rate" is a more fundamental driver for industry health.


The most logical and contextually appropriate pair is "logic" and "interest."
Quick Tip: In sentence completion questions, focus on the logical connection between the two blanks. The words must not only fit individually but also create a coherent and meaningful sentence together.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The sentence is about the nature of income derived from investments and what happens to it. We need to choose the most appropriate pair of words to describe this financial situation.


Step 2: Key Concept:

Unearned Income: This is a specific financial term for income received from sources other than employment, such as interest from savings accounts, bond interest, alimony, and dividends from stock.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

Let's analyze the options:

(A) additional .....squeezed: While investment income can be "additional," "squeezed" implies a negative pressure, which may not always be the case. The sentence is neutral.

(B) aggregate......cancelled: "Aggregate income" refers to total income, but investment income is a component, not the whole. "Cancelled" is too strong and doesn't fit the context of receiving income.

(C) future ......postponed: This doesn't make sense. Income isn't typically "postponed" in this manner.

(D) unearned..... credited: "Unearned income" is the correct term for income from investments. When you receive this income, it is "credited" (added) to your account. This pair is technically and contextually accurate.
Quick Tip: Look for specific terminology related to the topic of the sentence. In finance-related questions, terms like "unearned income," "credited," "levied," etc., are often key to finding the correct answer.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The sentence describes a situation where a government's spending is increasing, forcing it to take action. We need to identify what the government must increase and how to describe the rising expenditure.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The second blank describes the expenditure. Words like "soaring" or "galloping" suggest a rapid increase. The first blank must be what the government increases to pay for this expenditure.

Let's analyze the options:

(A) budget ..... decreasing: A government doesn't increase its budget to meet decreasing expenditure. This is contradictory.

(B) base ..... emerging: "Increase its base" is vague. "Emerging expenditure" doesn't convey the sense of a problem that needs to be met.

(C) credibility..... soaring: While a government needs credibility, you don't increase credibility to meet expenditure. The cause-and-effect is wrong.

(D) revenue ..... galloping: "Revenue" is the income a government receives (e.g., from taxes). If expenditure is "galloping" (increasing very fast), the government must increase its "revenue" to pay for it. This is a logical and common fiscal scenario.
Quick Tip: Pay attention to the connotation of words. "Galloping" and "soaring" both imply rapid growth, making them strong candidates for describing expenditure that has become a problem. Then, find the word for the first blank that logically addresses this problem.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

This sentence is about taxation, specifically the tax applied to gains from investments. We need to find the correct term for this type of tax and the correct verb for imposing a tax.


Step 2: Key Concept:

Capital Gains Tax: This is a tax on the profit realized on the sale of a non-inventory asset. The most common capital gains are realized from the sale of stocks, bonds, precious metals, and real estate.

Levy (verb): To impose or collect a tax, fee, or fine.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

Let's analyze the options:

(A) lottery.... charged: While there is tax on lottery winnings, "gains tax" is a broader term not specific to lotteries.

(B) property.... calculated: Property gains are a type of capital gain, but "capital" is the broader, correct term. Tax is "levied" or "imposed," not just "calculated."

(C) bonus .... deducted: Tax on a bonus is usually part of income tax, not a separate "gains tax."

(D) capital .... levied: "Capital gains tax" is the correct legal and financial term for tax on long-term and short-term gains from assets. The verb "levied" is the appropriate term for imposing a tax. This pair is perfectly accurate.
Quick Tip: In questions dealing with specific fields like law or finance, knowing the precise terminology is crucial. "Capital gains tax" and "levied" are standard terms in this context.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The sentence describes a choice regarding how interest on an investment is paid out. We need to identify who makes this decision and what the alternative to an "annual" payout is.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The sentence sets up a choice: interest can be paid annually, OR it can be paid in another way. The first blank is the person or entity making this choice.

(A) customer.... monthly: A customer could choose between monthly or annual interest. This is plausible.

(B) investor......cumulative: An "investor" is a specific type of customer. "Cumulative" interest is interest that is reinvested rather than paid out. The choice between a "cumulative" option and an "annual" payout option is a very common one for investors in fixed deposits or bonds. This is a very strong fit.

(C) officer ..... seasonal: "Seasonal" interest is not a standard financial term.

(D) bank .... occasional: "Occasional" interest is not a standard financial term.


Comparing (A) and (B), the term "investor" is more specific than "customer." More importantly, "cumulative" presents a distinct alternative to an "annual" payout (reinvest vs. take cash), which is a fundamental investment decision. Choosing between monthly and annual is just a frequency choice. Therefore, "investor...cumulative" is the most precise and contextually rich option.
Quick Tip: When multiple options seem plausible, choose the one with the most specific and technically accurate terminology for the given context. "Cumulative" interest is a specific financial concept that contrasts well with "annual" payout.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The sentence presents a contrast, indicated by the word "but." It describes a fundamental principle of investing in stock markets: a positive aspect is contrasted with a significant negative one.


Step 2: Key Concept:

Risk-Return Tradeoff: A fundamental principle in investment that states that the potential return on an investment rises with an increase in risk. To get higher returns, one must accept higher risk.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

The first blank should be a positive outcome from stock markets, and the second should be a negative aspect that is even greater.

(A) returns......risk: Stock markets can yield good "returns" (profits/gains), but the "risk" (potential for loss) is far greater. This perfectly captures the risk-return tradeoff.

(B) results......fluctuation: "Good results" is a bit vague. While "fluctuation" is a feature of stock markets, "risk" is the more encompassing term for the potential negative outcome.

(C) profits...... scarcity: Stock markets can yield "profits." However, "scarcity" is not the primary drawback or risk associated with them.

(D) savings ...... liability: You invest savings, you don't "yield" them. "Liability" is a debt, which isn't the direct counterpart to the yield from stocks.

The classic pairing of "returns" and "risk" is the most accurate description of the stock market's nature.
Quick Tip: Look for common collocations or standard concepts from the subject matter. In finance, "return and risk" are a fundamental and frequently mentioned pair.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The sentence is a quote that defines the true measure of a civilization. It dismisses material measures (population, city size, agriculture) in favor of a more qualitative one related to the people of the country.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

This is a famous quote by the American essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson. The original quote is: "The true test of civilization is, not the census, nor the size of cities, nor the crops, but the kind of man the country turns out."


Let's analyze the options based on the quote and logic:



(A) governance.......brings out: The kind of governance is important, but the phrasal verb "brings out" doesn't fit as well as "turns out" in this context.



(B) resources.......takes out: This doesn't make sense. The quality of a civilization is not measured by the resources it extracts.



(C) man.......turns out: This perfectly matches the original quote. "The kind of man the country turns out" refers to the character, quality, and moral fiber of its citizens. The phrasal verb "turns out" means "to produce" or "to create."



(D) society, transforms: "The kind of society the country transforms out" is grammatically awkward.


Therefore, the correct pair is "man...turns."
Quick Tip: Some questions in verbal ability sections are direct quotes from famous literature or speeches. If a sentence has a philosophical or classic tone, consider if you might recognize it. Even if you don't, you can solve it by checking for the most logical and grammatically correct phrasal verb.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The sentence describes the process of learning and self-correction. It suggests that a common part of learning is discovering that a previous understanding was incorrect.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

We need a pair of words where the first describes a past action of knowing or believing something, and the second describes the newly discovered flaw in that belief.



(A) learnt........wrong: "what they learnt the day before was wrong." This perfectly captures the idea of correcting a misunderstanding. Learning often involves unlearning.



(B) knew........inappropriate: Discovering that what you "knew" was "inappropriate" is possible, but "wrong" is a more direct and common antonym for a piece of knowledge or a fact.



(C) said........nonsense: Realizing what you "said" was "nonsense" is a form of learning, but the sentence is about the knowledge itself, not just the act of speaking. "Learnt" is broader.



(D) discussed.......inaccurate: Similar to (C), "discussed" is an action. The core idea is about the information or belief itself, which is best captured by "learnt" or "knew." "Inaccurate" is similar to "wrong," but the pairing "learnt...wrong" is a very common and clear expression of this idea.


Option (A) is the most fitting and general statement about the nature of learning.
Quick Tip: In sentence completion, look for the most general and widely applicable option that fits the context. The act of discovering that what you previously learned is wrong is a universal aspect of education and personal growth.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The sentence explains a situation where agreement ("see eye to eye") is impossible. We need to find an action that one person does to another that would naturally prevent agreement. The idiom "on him" is a key part of the sentence structure.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

The idiom "to see eye to eye" means to agree with someone. The sentence implies a negative action that causes disagreement.

Let's analyze the options:

(A) looking....down on him: "Looking down on him" creates a barrier to agreement, and the phrase is grammatically correct. It's a strong candidate.

(B) putting......blame on him: The phrase "putting blame on him" is a standard idiom. Blaming someone is a direct cause of conflict and makes agreement very difficult. This is a very strong candidate.

(C) heaping.......praise on him: Heaping praise on someone would likely make them more, not less, agreeable. This is the opposite of what is required.

(D) showering.......accusations on him: "Showering him with accusations" is the correct idiom, not "showering accusations on him." The preposition is wrong, making this option grammatically weak.


Comparing (A) and (B), both describe negative actions. However, "putting blame on him" is a more direct and confrontational act that immediately invites disagreement, fitting the context of "not seeing eye to eye" perfectly. The idiom is also a perfect fit.
Quick Tip: Pay close attention to prepositions and phrasal verbs. An option might seem correct in meaning, but if the grammar is awkward or incorrect (like "showering accusations on"), it's likely the wrong choice.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

This sentence describes the concept of the social contract: giving up some individual freedom to gain the benefits of a structured society. We need words that describe this restriction of freedom and the resulting state of that freedom.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The first blank needs a word that means a restriction or reduction. The second blank needs a word that describes what liberty becomes within this social order.

(A) reduction.....fact: A "reduction" of liberty is correct. But making liberty a "fact" doesn't quite capture the meaning. Liberty is already a fact; social order makes it a protected fact.

(B) limitation.....success: A "limitation" of liberty is correct. But social order doesn't make liberty a "success." The term doesn't fit.

(C) curb..... symbol: A "curb" on liberty is correct. But social order makes liberty more than just a "symbol"; it makes it practicable.

(D) curtailment......reality: "Curtailment" is a formal and precise word for a restriction. By accepting this curtailment, the absolute, theoretical liberty becomes a practical, protected "reality." Without social order, one's liberty is just an idea that can be violated by anyone stronger; within a social order, it becomes a real, enforceable right. This pair captures the philosophical concept perfectly.
Quick Tip: For abstract or philosophical sentences, think about the underlying concept. The social contract is about trading theoretical, absolute freedom for practical, protected freedom. The words "curtailment" and "reality" express this transformation effectively.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The sentence presents a contrast (indicated by "but") between the perceived private nature of our thoughts and their actual, unconscious impact on others.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The first blank should describe the intended or perceived audience/target of our thoughts. The second blank should be a verb describing the unconscious effect of these thoughts on others.

Let's analyze the options:

(A) action.......influence: We don't think our thoughts are only for "action." This doesn't make sense.

(B) ourselves.......influence: We may think our thoughts are private, i.e., only for "ourselves." This fits perfectly. The contrasting idea is that these private thoughts "unconsciously influence" others. This is a very coherent and logical statement.

(C) meditation.......help: We don't think our thoughts are only for "meditation." Meditation is an activity, not a recipient.

(D) spirituality........affect: We don't think our thoughts are only for "spirituality." And while they do "affect" others, the pairing with "ourselves" in option B creates a much clearer and more direct contrast.

The pair "ourselves...influence" creates the intended contrast between the private perception and the external reality.
Quick Tip: Look for contrast words like "but," "however," or "although." They signal that the two parts of the sentence will have opposing or contrasting ideas. This helps you choose a word pair that reflects this opposition.

Step 1: Understanding the Relationship

The relationship between Orator and Speech is that of a performer to their performance or creation. An orator is a person who delivers a speech.


Step 2: Analyzing the Options

We need to find a pair that shares this "performer to performance" relationship.

(A) A cooker is an appliance used to prepare food. The cooker is a tool, not a performer.

(B) An onlooker is a person who looks. While this is a performer and their action, a "speech" is a formal, prepared composition, whereas a "look" is a general action.

(C) A singer is a person who performs a song. This is a perfect analogy. A song is a specific artistic composition performed by a singer, just as a speech is a formal composition delivered by an orator.

(D) Error and mistake are synonyms. This does not fit the required relationship.


Step 3: Final Answer

The pair singer: song correctly mirrors the relationship between the performer and their specific performance/creation.
Quick Tip: In analogy questions, first, identify the precise relationship between the given words. Is it cause and effect, part to whole, performer to action, synonym, or antonym? Then, test each option against this exact relationship.

Step 1: Understanding the Relationship

The relationship between Ring and Finger is that of an item of adornment (ornament) to the body part on which it is worn. A ring is an ornament worn on a finger.


Step 2: Analyzing the Options

We are looking for a pair with the "ornament to body part" relationship.

(A) A handcuff is a restraint, not an ornament, worn on the hand or wrist.

(B) A bangle is an ornament worn on the arm. This perfectly matches the relationship.

(C) A shoe is worn on the foot, but it is primarily functional footwear for protection, not purely an ornament like a ring or bangle.

(D) A buckle is a part of a belt. This is a "part to whole" relationship.


Step 3: Final Answer

The pair Bangle: Arm has the same relationship of an ornament to the body part where it is worn.
Quick Tip: Pay attention to the primary function of the objects in the analogy. While a shoe is worn on a foot, its primary purpose (utility) is different from that of a ring (adornment). This subtle distinction is often key.

Step 1: Understanding the Relationship

The relationship between Throw and drop is that they are two related actions of releasing an object. To "throw" is to release with force, while to "drop" is to release without force. They represent a pair of similar actions with a difference in intensity or manner.


Step 2: Analyzing the Options

We need to find another pair of related actions.

(A) Catch and Hold are two related actions of securing an object. To "catch" is to actively intercept a moving object, and to "hold" is to keep it in one's possession. This pairing of related actions in the same domain (securing an object) is analogous to the original pair (releasing an object).

(B) To get is to acquire, and to contain is to have something inside. The relationship is not as direct as the given pair.

(C) Retain and Discard are antonyms (to keep vs. to throw away).

(D) Jump is a self-propelled action, while fall is usually an involuntary action due to gravity. They are not two different ways of performing the same basic task.


Step 3: Final Answer

The pair Catch: Hold presents two related actions for securing an object, which is analogous to Throw: drop presenting two related actions for releasing an object.
Quick Tip: Sometimes, the relationship isn't a simple category like "synonym" or "antonym." It can be about actions within the same domain. Classify the given pair (e.g., "actions of releasing") and look for an option that fits a similar classification (e.g., "actions of securing").

Step 1: Understanding the Relationship

The relationship is that the first action (Learn) leads to the second outcome or process (Education). One learns to gain an education.


Step 2: Analyzing the Options

We are looking for a pair where an action leads to a result.

(A) One must Practice to gain a Skill. This perfectly mirrors the "action leading to outcome" relationship.

(B) Amnesia is the inability to remember. This is an "inability to perform an action" relationship.

(C) Insomnia is the inability to sleep. Similar to option (B), this is an "inability to perform an action" relationship.

(D) To teach can be a profession, but the relationship is "action to its classification as a job," not "action to its result."


Step 3: Final Answer

The pair Practice: Skill shows the same relationship where an action leads to the development or attainment of something.
Quick Tip: Focus on the cause-and-effect or process-and-result nature of the words. Learning is the process, and education is the broader result. Practice is the process, and skill is the result.

Step 1: Understanding the Relationship

Convalescence is the process of gradual Recovery after an illness. The words are very closely related, essentially synonyms, with the first word describing the process that constitutes the second.


Step 2: Analyzing the Options

We are looking for a pair of synonyms or near-synonyms.

(A) Operation and Surgery are synonyms. This is a very strong match.

(B) Hospitalization is the state of being in a hospital. The relationship is "place to the state of being there."

(C) A stroke can be a cause of paralysis. This is a cause-and-effect relationship.

(D) Inflammation is the body's response to a wound. This is a cause-and-response relationship.


Step 3: Final Answer

The pair Operation: Surgery consists of two synonyms, which is the same relationship as between Convalescence and Recovery.
Quick Tip: Synonym-based analogies are common. If the two words mean almost the same thing, quickly scan the options for another pair of synonyms. Be careful with near-synonyms vs. exact synonyms.

Step 1: Understanding the Relationship

To Desecrate is to violate or damage the sacred character of something that is Holy. The relationship is "a specific type of harm" to "the quality or type of thing being harmed." Desecration is harm to the sacred/holy.


Step 2: Analyzing the Options

We look for a similar relationship of "harm to a specific domain."

(A) To despoil is to plunder. While this can mar something beautiful, it is not its primary definition.

(B) To beautify is to make something less ugly. This is an antonymous action.

(C) To glamorize is to make something seem glamorous, not necessarily related to being rich.

(D) To Damage is to cause physical harm to something that is Corporeal (physical/material in nature). This provides a perfect parallel: Desecrate is to damage the holy, while Damage is to harm the corporeal.

(E) To improve is the opposite of making something dull.


Step 3: Final Answer

The relationship between Damage and Corporeal mirrors the original pair. It represents a general action of harm applied to a general category of things, just as "Desecrate" is a specific harm to a specific category.
Quick Tip: Think in terms of domains. "Desecrate" operates in the spiritual/sacred domain. Look for an option that operates consistently in another domain, like the physical/material domain.

Step 1: Understanding the Relationship

A Virtuoso is by definition a highly skilled and Accomplished person, especially a musician. The second word is a defining and essential characteristic of the first.


Step 2: Analyzing the Options

We are looking for a pair where the second word is a defining quality of the first.

(A) An aesthete appreciates beauty; being austere (stern, plain) is not a defining characteristic.

(B) A servant may be servile, but it is not a necessary or defining quality, and "servile" often has negative connotations.

(C) A hedonist seeks pleasure; they may or may not be pretentious.

(D) A priest may be orthodox, but it is not a universal or defining characteristic of all priests.

(E) A Philanthropist is a person who helps others, especially by donating money. By definition, a philanthropist is Generous. This is a perfect match.


Step 3: Final Answer

The pair Philanthropist: Generous shows the same relationship where a person is defined by a certain quality.
Quick Tip: For analogies involving types of people, ask yourself: "Is this person a [second word] by definition?" A virtuoso IS accomplished. A philanthropist IS generous. This direct definitional link is what you should look for.

Step 1: Understanding the Relationship

An Authoritarian person or system is characterized by being very Strict. The second word is a key quality or component of the first, often to a high degree.


Step 2: Analyzing the Options

We are looking for a pair with a similar "trait: defining quality" relationship.

(A) Fallacious (false) and Fraught (filled with) are unrelated.

(B) A Fastidious person is someone who is excessively Particular and concerned with detail. This matches the relationship perfectly, as being "particular" is the core of being "fastidious."

(C) Exemplary (model) and Arrogant (conceited) are unrelated.

(D) Apprehensive (anxious) and Eager are near antonyms.

(E) Neutral and Objective are very close synonyms. While a good candidate, the relationship in Authoritarian:Strict and Fastidious:Particular implies an intensity or excessiveness (very strict, very particular) that isn't as inherent in Neutral:Objective.


Step 3: Final Answer

The relationship in Fastidious: Particular best mirrors the original pair, where one word describes a characteristic that is an intense or extreme version of the second word.
Quick Tip: Look for nuances of intensity. An authoritarian leader is not just strict, but extremely strict. A fastidious person is not just particular, but extremely particular. This degree of intensity can be the deciding factor between two good options.

Step 1: Understanding the Relationship

The word Homogenous means "of the same Kind." The relationship is between an adjective and the noun that represents the core concept or dimension it describes. Something is homogenous with respect to its kind.


Step 2: Analyzing the Options

We need to find another pair where an adjective describes a state related to a fundamental concept (the noun).

(A) Something is Fast with respect to its Speed. This is a good fit.

(B) Suspicious and Origin are not related in this way.

(C) Diverse and Route are not related in this way.

(D) Something is Contemporary if it exists at the same Time as something else. This also fits the pattern perfectly. Something is contemporary with respect to its time.

(E) Disparate (different) and Place are not related in this way.


Step 3: Comparing Good Options and Final Answer

Both (A) and (D) are strong candidates. Let's look closer. "Homogenous" describes a state of uniformity in the dimension of "Kind." "Contemporary" describes a state of uniformity (co-existence) in the dimension of "Time." "Fast" describes a high magnitude in the dimension of "Speed," not necessarily uniformity. Therefore, the analogy with "Contemporary: Time" is more precise as both refer to a state of being the same or uniform within a certain dimension (kind, time).
Quick Tip: When you find a relationship like "adjective: related noun," try to make it more specific. Is the adjective describing a high value (like fast), a state of being (like homogenous), or something else? This refinement will help you choose the best answer.

Step 1: Understanding the Relationship

Something that is Conspicuous is very easily seen or noticed; it is a high degree of being Visible. The relationship is one of intensity: the first word is a more intense or easily perceived version of the second. Conspicuous = easily visible.


Step 2: Analyzing the Options

We are looking for a pair with this intensity relationship (easily X'd : X).

(A) Sensual relates to all senses, while audible relates only to hearing. This is not an intensity relationship.

(B) Something irrevocable cannot be changed. This is the opposite of the required relationship.

(C) Something elastic returns to its shape after being stretched; it does not mean "easily stretched."

(D) Something ignominious deserves to be denounced; it doesn't mean "easily denounced."

(E) Something that is Sensitive is easily Felt or perceived. This perfectly matches the relationship: Sensitive = easily felt.


Step 3: Final Answer

The pair Sensitive: Felt correctly mirrors the relationship of intensity, where the first word implies a high degree or ease of perceiving the state described by the second word.
Quick Tip: Frame the relationship as a sentence to test for intensity. "Something conspicuous is easily visible." Then apply the same sentence structure to the options: "Something sensitive is easily felt." This makes the correct relationship clear.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The instruction is to find the word that is "congruous" to the word in capitals. "Congruous" means harmonious or in agreement. In a vocabulary context, this means finding the synonym or the word with the most similar meaning.


Step 2: Defining the Word

CRANKY has two primary meanings:

1. Ill-tempered; irritable.

2. Eccentric or peculiar.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) noisy: making a lot of noise. This is unrelated to being cranky.

(B) brief: of short duration. This is unrelated.

(C) entangled: twisted together; complicated. This is unrelated.

(D) eccentric: unconventional and slightly strange. This is a direct synonym for one of the meanings of "cranky".


Step 4: Final Answer

Since none of the options relate to being "irritable," we consider the second meaning. Eccentric is a direct synonym for the second meaning of "cranky."
Quick Tip: Many words in English have more than one meaning. If the most common meaning doesn't match any of the options, consider the secondary meanings of the word.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to find the synonym for the word IMPUTE.


Step 2: Defining the Word

IMPUTE means to represent something, especially something undesirable, as being done, caused, or possessed by someone; to attribute. For example, "The crimes imputed to him were severe."


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) include: to comprise or contain as part of a whole. This is not a synonym.

(B) attribute: to regard something as being caused by someone or something. This is the precise definition of "impute."

(C) Ignore: to refuse to take notice of or acknowledge. This is an antonym of the concept.

(D) Dispute: to argue about something; to question the validity of. This is unrelated.


Step 4: Final Answer

The word attribute is a direct synonym for impute.
Quick Tip: When learning new vocabulary, try to understand the word's connotation. "Impute" often carries a negative connotation, as it's typically used to assign blame or responsibility for something negative.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to find the word that has the closest meaning to UPDATE.


Step 2: Defining the Word

UPDATE means to make something more modern or up-to-date by adding new information or making improvements.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) postpone: to cause or arrange for something to take place at a time later than that first scheduled. This is a different concept.

(B) modernize: to adapt something to modern needs or habits. This is a direct synonym for "update."

(C) lapse: to become invalid because it is not used, claimed, or renewed; expire. This is unrelated.

(D) restore: to bring back a previous state or position. This is often the opposite of updating.


Step 4: Final Answer

Modernize is the best synonym for update as both involve bringing something to a more current state.
Quick Tip: Think about word parts (morphology). The "up" in "update" and the "modern" in "modernize" both relate to making something more current or new. This can be a clue.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to find the synonym for the word NATTER.


Step 2: Defining the Word

NATTER is an informal word meaning to talk casually and at length, especially about unimportant matters.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) chatter: to talk rapidly and continuously about trivial matters. This is a direct synonym for "natter."

(B) scatter: to throw in various random directions. This is unrelated.

(C) batter: to strike repeatedly with hard blows. This is unrelated.

(D) tatter: to make something ragged or torn. This is unrelated.


Step 4: Final Answer

The word chatter is the closest in meaning to natter.
Quick Tip: For questions with rhyming or similar-sounding options, be careful not to get confused. Focus solely on the definition of each word. Here, chatter, scatter, batter, and tatter sound alike but have very different meanings.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to find the word that is congruous with PROD.


Step 2: Defining the Word

PROD means to poke someone or something with a finger, foot, or a pointed object. It can also be used figuratively to mean to stimulate or persuade someone to do something.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) secure: to fix or fasten so that it cannot be moved or lost. This is unrelated.

(B) endow: to provide with a quality, ability, or asset. This is unrelated.

(C) poke: to jab or push with one's finger or a sharp object. This is a direct synonym for the primary meaning of "prod."

(D) growl: to make a low, guttural sound in the throat. This is unrelated.


Step 4: Final Answer

Poke is the most direct and accurate synonym for prod.
Quick Tip: Words can have both literal and figurative meanings. Usually, synonym questions in exams focus on the most common or literal meaning. Here, the literal meaning of "prod" is "poke."

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We are asked to find the synonym for the word PROPONENT.


Step 2: Defining the Word

A PROPONENT is a person who supports a cause or theory; someone who argues in favor of something.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) predecessor: a person who held a job or office before the current holder. This is unrelated.

(B) advocate: a person who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy. This is a direct synonym for "proponent."

(C) conspirator: a person who takes part in a conspiracy or secret plan. This is unrelated.

(D) informer: a person who gives information against others, often for a reward. This is unrelated.


Step 4: Final Answer

The word advocate shares the same meaning as proponent.
Quick Tip: Break down words into their roots. "Pro-" is a prefix meaning "for" or "forward." A proponent is someone who is "for" an idea. An opponent ("opp-" meaning "against") is the antonym.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to find the word most closely related to TAPIS. This is an obscure word.


Step 2: Defining the Word

TAPIS is an archaic English word, derived from French, meaning a tapestry or a carpet. The phrase "on the tapis" means "under consideration or discussion." A tapestry is a heavy cloth with pictures or designs woven into it.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

Since "tapis" itself refers to a tapestry, we must find a word related to the key feature of a tapestry.

(A) strategy: a plan of action. Unrelated.

(B) scheme: a large-scale systematic plan. Unrelated.

(C) design: a pattern or drawing. Tapestries are known for their intricate woven designs. This is the most logical connection.

(D) chance: a possibility. Unrelated.


Step 4: Final Answer

The most defining characteristic of a tapis (tapestry) is its intricate design. Therefore, "design" is the most congruous word.
Quick Tip: When faced with an unfamiliar word, try to think of related concepts or objects. "Tapis" relates to "tapestry," and the most prominent feature of a tapestry is its visual design. This kind of associative reasoning can help solve difficult vocabulary questions.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We are looking for the best synonym for the word TARDY.


Step 2: Defining the Word

TARDY means delaying or being delayed beyond the expected or proper time; late.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) opportune: happening at a favorable time; timely. This is an antonym.

(B) belated: coming or happening later than should have been the case. This is a very close synonym.

(C) slow: moving at a low speed. While being slow can cause one to be tardy, it is not the same thing. Slowness is a rate of movement; tardiness is a state relative to a deadline.

(D) overdue: not having arrived, happened, or been done by the expected time. This is also a very close synonym. However, "overdue" is often used for things with deadlines (bills, library books), while "tardy" and "belated" are more general. "Belated" is a slightly better fit in general contexts (e.g., a tardy student, a belated birthday wish).


Step 4: Final Answer

Both "belated" and "overdue" are strong candidates, but belated is arguably the most general and direct synonym for tardy.
Quick Tip: When multiple options seem correct, consider the nuances and common usage of the words. "Tardy" is often used for people arriving late, while "overdue" is for items or payments past a deadline. "Belated" can cover both but is often used for events or greetings.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to find the synonym for the verb TARRY.


Step 2: Defining the Word

To TARRY means to stay somewhere for longer than expected; to delay leaving a place; to linger.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) scurry: to move hurriedly with short quick steps. This is an antonym in spirit.

(B) dawdle: to waste time; to be slow. This is related but focuses on the slowness rather than the act of staying.

(C) linger: to stay in a place longer than necessary, typically because of a reluctance to leave. This is a very precise synonym for "tarry."

(D) loiter: to stand or wait around idly or without apparent purpose. This is similar but often has a negative or aimless connotation, which "tarry" does not necessarily have.


Step 4: Final Answer

While "dawdle" and "loiter" are similar, linger is the most accurate and neutral synonym for tarry, capturing the essence of delaying departure.
Quick Tip: Pay attention to the connotation of words. "Tarry" and "linger" are fairly neutral, "dawdle" implies wasting time, and "loiter" can have a suspicious or illegal connotation. The best synonym often shares the same connotation.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question asks for the antonym (a word with the opposite meaning) of INCISIVE.


Step 2: Defining the Word

INCISIVE means sharp, clear, and direct, especially of a thought or comment. It implies precision and focus. For example, "an incisive analysis."


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) sharp: This is a synonym for incisive.

(B) diffuse: This means spread out over a large area; not concentrated. In the context of writing or speech, it means rambling and wordy, lacking clarity. This is the opposite of incisive.

(C) pointed: This is a synonym for incisive, meaning direct and relevant.

(D) acute: This is a synonym for incisive, meaning sharp or perceptive.


Step 4: Final Answer

The opposite of being clear and focused (incisive) is being rambling and unfocused (diffuse).
Quick Tip: When looking for an antonym, first eliminate all the synonyms. In this question, 'sharp', 'pointed', and 'acute' are all synonyms of 'incisive', making 'diffuse' the only possible answer.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question asks for the antonym of JADED.


Step 2: Defining the Word

JADED means tired, bored, or lacking enthusiasm, typically after having had too much of something. It implies a sense of weariness and cynicism.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) wornout: This is a synonym for jaded.

(B) exhausted: This is a synonym for jaded.

(C) fresh: This means new, energetic, not tired or spoiled. It is the direct opposite of being tired and weary.

(D) depleted: This means used up or emptied, which is a synonym for the feeling of being jaded.


Step 4: Final Answer

The opposite of being tired and weary (jaded) is being energetic and new (fresh).
Quick Tip: Think of the context where a word is used. One might feel "jaded" after a long journey or a repetitive job. The opposite feeling would be feeling "fresh" and ready for a new experience.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to find the antonym for the word MANIFEST.


Step 2: Defining the Word

MANIFEST means clear or obvious to the eye or mind; easy to see or understand.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) obvious: This is a synonym for manifest.

(B) concealed: This means kept secret or hidden. It is the direct opposite of being obvious.

(C) transparent: This is a synonym for manifest, meaning easy to perceive or detect.

(D) showy: This means ostentatiously bright or colourful, which relates to being visible but is not a direct synonym or antonym.


Step 4: Final Answer

The opposite of being clear and obvious (manifest) is being hidden (concealed).
Quick Tip: Remember that "manifest" can be a verb (to show or demonstrate), an adjective (obvious), or a noun (a list of cargo). In this context, it's an adjective. Considering all forms of a word can deepen your understanding.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question asks for the antonym of the verb REPINE.


Step 2: Defining the Word

To REPINE means to feel or express great discontent; to fret or complain.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) rejoice: This means to feel or show great joy or delight. This is the direct opposite of feeling discontent.

(B) repose: This means to rest or be peaceful. While it's a positive state, it's not the direct opposite of active discontent.

(C) repent: This means to feel or express sincere regret about one's wrongdoing. This is a different emotion from discontent.

(D) mourn: This means to feel or show deep sorrow or regret for someone or something lost. This is a form of sadness, similar in spirit to repining.


Step 4: Final Answer

The opposite of complaining and being discontent (repining) is feeling great joy (rejoicing).
Quick Tip: 'Repine' is an uncommon word. If you encounter an unfamiliar word, look at the options. Options like 'rejoice' and 'mourn' are opposites. The given word is likely to be a synonym for one of them. 'Repine' sounds negative, so its opposite is likely the positive word 'rejoice'.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to find the antonym for the noun CONTENTION.


Step 2: Defining the Word

CONTENTION means heated disagreement, argument, or dispute.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) argument: This is a synonym for contention.

(B) pacification: This is the act of quelling anger, agitation, or excitement; making peace. This is the opposite of a heated disagreement.

(C) debate: This is a formal argument, a synonym for contention.

(D) quarrel: This is an angry argument, a synonym for contention.


Step 4: Final Answer

The opposite of disagreement and dispute (contention) is the act of making peace (pacification).
Quick Tip: Notice the root word "pacific," related to "peace" (like the Pacific Ocean). This helps identify "pacification" as the word related to creating peace, which is the clear opposite of "contention."

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question asks for the antonym of the word QUEER.


Step 2: Defining the Word

In its traditional sense, QUEER means strange or odd.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) strange: This is a synonym for queer.

(B) familiar: This means well-known or common. While related, it's not the most direct antonym. Something can be familiar but still queer.

(C) noisy: This is unrelated to the meaning of queer.

(D) normal: This means conforming to a standard; usual, typical, or expected. This is the most direct opposite of strange or odd.


Step 4: Final Answer

The most accurate antonym for strange or odd (queer) is typical or expected (normal).
Quick Tip: Words can have multiple meanings that evolve over time. For standardized tests, focus on the most established, traditional definition unless the context suggests otherwise. Here, "queer" means "strange."

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to find the antonym for the word TERRESTRIAL.


Step 2: Defining the Word

TERRESTRIAL means relating to the Earth or to land, as opposed to the sea or air. It is often used in contrast to things of the heavens.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) economical: Relating to the economy. Unrelated.

(B) ecclesiastical: Relating to the Christian Church. Unrelated.

(C) social: Relating to society. Unrelated.

(D) celestial: Positioned in or relating to the sky, or outer space as observed in astronomy. This is the direct antonym of terrestrial.


Step 4: Final Answer

The opposite of things related to Earth (terrestrial) is things related to the heavens or sky (celestial). For example, a terrestrial globe vs. a celestial globe.
Quick Tip: The root "terra" means "earth" (as in territory, terrain). The root "celest" relates to the sky (as in Celeste). Knowing Latin/Greek roots can be a powerful tool for deciphering vocabulary.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question asks for the antonym of SYNTHETIC.


Step 2: Defining the Word

SYNTHETIC means made by chemical synthesis, especially to imitate a natural product. It means man-made or artificial.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) cosmetic: Relating to treatment intended to improve appearance. Unrelated.

(B) artificial: Made or produced by human beings rather than occurring naturally. This is a synonym for synthetic.

(C) plastic: A synthetic material. This is an example of something synthetic, not an antonym.

(D) natural: Existing in or derived from nature; not made or caused by humankind. This is the direct opposite of synthetic.


Step 4: Final Answer

The opposite of man-made (synthetic) is existing in nature (natural).
Quick Tip: Be careful to distinguish between synonyms, examples, and antonyms. 'Artificial' is a synonym, and 'plastic' is an example of a synthetic product. Only 'natural' is the antonym.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to find the antonym for the botanical term DECIDUOUS.


Step 2: Defining the Word

A DECIDUOUS plant or tree is one that sheds its leaves annually, usually in the autumn.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) undecided: This relates to making a decision and is a false friend based on the sound of the word.

(B) evergreen: An evergreen plant is one that retains green leaves throughout the year. This is the direct botanical opposite of deciduous.

(C) perennial: A perennial plant is one that lives for more than two years. This describes a plant's lifespan, not its leaf-shedding habit. Many deciduous trees are also perennials.

(D) annual: An annual plant completes its life cycle in one year. This also describes lifespan.


Step 4: Final Answer

The opposite of a plant that sheds its leaves (deciduous) is a plant that keeps its leaves all year (evergreen).
Quick Tip: In specialized topics like botany, terms often come in opposing pairs. Deciduous/Evergreen is a classic pair, just like Annual/Perennial. Knowing these key pairs is crucial.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The sentence has an error in the underlined part. We need to choose the option that corrects it. The error involves the confusion between "latter" and "later".


Step 2: Key Concept: Latter vs. Later

Latter refers to the second of two things or people mentioned. Example: "Of tea and coffee, I prefer the latter."

Later is the comparative form of "late" and refers to time. Example: "He arrived later than she did."


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The sentence is about the time of arrival. Therefore, the correct word to use for comparison is later. "Latter" is incorrect. Also, "more late" is not the correct comparative form; the correct form is "later".

The original sentence: "he came latter than I expected."

The corrected sentence should be: "he came later than I expected."


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (A) provides the correct word "later" and keeps the rest of the phrase grammatically sound.
Quick Tip: Remember: \(\textbf{Latter}\) has "tt" and refers to one of \(\textbf{T}\)wo \(\textbf{T}\)hings. \(\textbf{Later}\) has a "t" and refers to \(\textbf{T}\)ime.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question requires correcting an error in tense agreement in an indirect speech sentence.


Step 2: Key Concept: Sequence of Tenses in Indirect Speech

When the reporting verb (the main verb of the sentence) is in the past tense (e.g., "said"), the verb in the reported clause must also be shifted to a corresponding past tense.

Direct Speech: He said, "I am angry."

Indirect Speech: He said that he was angry. (Present tense "am" changes to past tense "was").


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

In the given sentence, the reporting verb is "said" (past tense). The verb in the reported clause is "is" (present tense). According to the rules of sequence of tenses, "is" must be changed to its corresponding past tense, which is "was".

Incorrect: He said that he is angry.

Correct: He said that he was angry.


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (B) correctly changes the verb to "was", maintaining the correct tense sequence.
Quick Tip: Always check the tense of the reporting verb (like 'said', 'told', 'asked'). If it's in the past, the verb in the clause that follows must also be in a past form.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question asks to identify if there is an error in the underlined part and to choose the correct replacement.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation

Let's analyze the underlined phrase: "who returned home after winning".

- The relative pronoun "who" correctly refers to the "cricket team" (a group of people).

- The verb "returned" is in the simple past tense, which is appropriate for a completed action that happened in the past.

- The phrase "returned home" is idiomatically correct. We do not say "returned to home".

- The rest of the phrase "after winning" is also correct.

The main clause verb is "has arranged" (present perfect), which describes a recent action. The team's return is a completed past action. The simple past tense "returned" is the most natural and grammatically correct choice in this context.


Step 3: Analyzing the Options

(A) "will be returning" - Incorrect future tense.

(B) "returned to home" - Incorrect use of the preposition "to".

(C) "who returned home after winning" - This is identical to the original underlined part and is grammatically correct.

(D) "who had returned home after winning" - The past perfect tense is not necessary here, as the sequence of past events is clear without it. Simple past is preferred.


Step 4: Final Answer

The original sentence is grammatically correct. Therefore, option (C), which is the same as the original, is the right choice, implying no change is needed.
Quick Tip: When you see an option that is identical to the underlined text, double-check if the original sentence is actually correct. Test-makers often include "No error" options disguised this way. Remember that "home" as a destination often doesn't require a preposition like "to" (e.g., go home, come home, return home).

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The sentence involves a comparison, and the error lies in using the wrong degree of comparison.


Step 2: Key Concept: Degrees of Comparison

- Comparative Degree: Used when comparing two items (e.g., cheaper, more expensive, less costly).

- Superlative Degree: Used when comparing three or more items (e.g., cheapest, most expensive, least costly).


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The sentence explicitly states that the comparison is between "two books". Therefore, the comparative degree must be used, not the superlative.

The superlative adjective is "least costly".

The correct comparative adjective is "less costly".

Incorrect: Of these two books, which is the least costly?

Correct: Of these two books, which is less costly?


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (C) correctly uses the comparative form "less costly" for a comparison between two items.
Quick Tip: Always look for the number of items being compared. If it's exactly two, use the comparative form (ending in -er or with 'more'/'less'). If it's three or more, use the superlative form (ending in -est or with 'most'/'least').

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests the grammatical structure that follows the phrase "is used to".


Step 2: Key Concept: "be used to" + Gerund

The expression "to be used to something" means "to be accustomed to something". In this structure, the "to" is a preposition, not part of an infinitive. Prepositions are followed by a noun or a gerund (the -ing form of a verb).

Correct structure: Subject + be + used to + verb-ing / noun.

Example: "I am used to the noise." or "I am used to living in a noisy city."


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

In the given sentence, "He is used to" should be followed by the gerund form of the verb "copy", which is "copying".

Incorrect: He is used to copy...

Correct: He is used to copying...


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (C) correctly provides the gerund "copying" after the phrase "is used to".
Quick Tip: Don't confuse "be used to + -ing" (be accustomed to) with "used to + verb" (a past habit). For example, "He used to copy" (he did it in the past but doesn't now) vs. "He is used to copying" (he is accustomed to the act of copying).

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests the use of modifiers with absolute adjectives.


Step 2: Key Concept: Absolute Adjectives

Some adjectives, known as absolute or non-gradable adjectives, describe qualities that are all-or-nothing. Examples include "universal," "unique," "perfect," "dead," "impossible." Since these qualities cannot exist in degrees, they generally cannot be modified by comparatives (more) or superlatives (most). Something is either universal or it is not.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The adjective "universal" is an absolute adjective. Therefore, using "most universal" is grammatically incorrect. The phrase should simply be "of universal application".

The options are:

(A) "most universal application" - Incorrect superlative.

(B) "the more universal application" - Incorrect comparative.

(C) Option (C) lacks the preposition "of". Let's assume the underline starts after "of". Then `the most universal application` needs to be replaced. `universal application` would be the best choice. Let's assume the underline is the whole phrase `of the most universal application`. The best replacement would be `of universal application`. Option C is just "Universal application". Option D is "the universal application". `This rule is the universal application` is not idiomatic. It seems there is an issue with the options. Let's reconsider. Perhaps the intent is `This rule is of universal application`. "This rule is of the universal application" is grammatically plausible. Hence, D is the most likely intended answer.


Step 4: Final Answer

The adjective "universal" is absolute and cannot be modified by "most". The correct idiomatic phrase is "of universal application." Among the given choices, none perfectly correct the sentence. However, the primary error is the use of "most". Option (D) removes this superlative, leading to the phrase "of the universal application." This is the best choice among flawed options.
Quick Tip: Recognize absolute adjectives like unique, perfect, universal, and complete. They cannot be compared. Avoid using "more" or "most" with them. The correct phrase is usually just the adjective itself.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The sentence has an error in expressing possession with the word "sake".


Step 2: Key Concept: Possessive Case

To show possession, especially with the word "sake," the noun preceding it must be in the possessive case (using an apostrophe 's'). For example, "for my mother's sake." When two nouns are involved, the expression can vary.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The original phrase "For John as well as for Rico sake" is incorrect because both "John" and "Rico" lack the possessive 's'.

Let's analyze the options:

(A) This option removes "sake" entirely, changing the meaning.

(B) "For John's as well as for Rico's sake" is grammatically correct but is stylistically awkward and redundant with the repeated "for". A better phrasing would be "For John's as well as Rico's sake".

(C) This option incorrectly uses the preposition "In".

(D) "For John and Rico's sake" is the most common, concise, and idiomatically correct way to express this idea. It treats "John and Rico" as a single unit jointly possessing the "sake". This structure is preferred for its fluency.


Step 4: Final Answer

While option (B) is technically a possible correction, option (D) represents the most standard and stylistically superior phrasing in English. It replaces the cumbersome "as well as for" with a simple "and" and uses the correct possessive form for a compound noun phrase.
Quick Tip: For joint possession, add the possessive ('s) only to the last noun in the group (e.g., "my mom and dad's car"). For separate possession, add it to each noun (e.g., "my mom's and dad's cars"). Here, the "sake" is shared, so "John and Rico's sake" is the best form.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests the correct use of pronouns after a preposition and the difference between "Beside" and "Besides".


Step 2: Key Concepts

1. Beside vs. Besides: "Beside" is a preposition meaning "next to". "Besides" is a preposition meaning "in addition to" or "apart from". The context of the sentence ("who else was present") requires "Besides".

2. Pronoun Case after Prepositions: A pronoun that is the object of a preposition must be in the objective case (e.g., me, him, her, us, them).


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

In the phrase "Besides Betty and I", "Besides" is a preposition. Therefore, the pronouns that follow must be in the objective case. "Betty" is a noun and doesn't change, but the subjective pronoun "I" must be changed to the objective pronoun "me".

Incorrect: Besides Betty and I

Correct: Besides Betty and me


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (C) correctly uses both "Besides" (meaning "in addition to") and the objective pronoun "me".
Quick Tip: A simple way to check the pronoun case is to remove the other noun. You would say "Besides me," not "Besides I." Therefore, "Besides Betty and me" is correct.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

This sentence expresses a hypothetical or contrary-to-fact situation, which requires the use of the subjunctive mood.


Step 2: Key Concept: Subjunctive Mood

The subjunctive mood is used for hypothetical situations, wishes, or commands. For the verb "to be" in a hypothetical "if" clause, the form "were" is used for all subjects (I, you, he, she, it, we, they).


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The clause "If I am a king" describes a situation that is not true (the speaker is not a king). This is a classic case for the subjunctive mood. The verb "am" should be replaced with "were". The main clause "I would give this order" correctly uses "would," which signals that the "if" clause should be in the subjunctive.

Incorrect: If I am a king... / If I was a king... (in formal writing)

Correct: If I were a king...


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (B) correctly uses the subjunctive form "were" for the hypothetical condition.
Quick Tip: Look for the "would" or "could" in the main clause. If you see "If [condition], I would/could [result]", the verb in the condition part should be in the subjunctive past tense (e.g., "were", "had", "knew").

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests the correct preposition to use with the verb "prefer".


Step 2: Key Concept: Prepositions with 'Prefer'

The verb "prefer" is followed by the preposition "to" when comparing two nouns or activities. The structure is: prefer + [noun 1] + to + [noun 2].


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The sentence compares "tea" and "coffee". The standard English idiom uses "to", not "than", in this construction.

Incorrect: I prefer tea than coffee.

Correct: I prefer tea to coffee.

The underlined part is "than coffee". It should be replaced with "to coffee". Option (A) presents the full correct phrase.


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (A) provides the correct structure, resulting in the sentence "I prefer tea to coffee."
Quick Tip: Memorize common verb-preposition pairs. Certain verbs are always followed by specific prepositions. Examples: `prefer to`, `listen to`, `differ from`, `accused of`, `prevent from`.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests subject-verb agreement with a collective noun phrase.


Step 2: Key Concept: Subject-Verb Agreement with Collective Nouns

The subject of the sentence is "A body", not "volunteers". "Of volunteers" is a prepositional phrase modifying "body". The noun "body" is singular. Therefore, the verb must also be singular.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The subject is the singular noun "A body". The verb used is "have", which is plural. This is incorrect. The singular form of the verb "to have" is "has".

Incorrect: A body ... have been...

Correct: A body ... has been...

Now let's look at the options.

(A) "are" is a plural verb. Incorrect.

(B) "has been" uses the correct singular verb. Although it incorrectly changes "volunteers" to "volunteer", it is the only option that corrects the primary error of subject-verb agreement. In multiple-choice questions, we must choose the best available option.

(C) "were" is a plural verb. Incorrect.

(D) This changes the subject of the sentence from "A body" to "The volunteers", which alters the original meaning.


Step 4: Final Answer

The main error in the sentence is the plural verb "have" with the singular subject "A body". Option (B) is the only one that corrects this to "has". Despite the secondary error of changing "volunteers" to "volunteer" (likely a typo in the question), it is the best answer as it fixes the key grammatical mistake. The intended correct sentence is "A body of volunteers has been organized."
Quick Tip: When you see a subject like "A [group noun] of [plural noun]", such as "A team of players" or "A bouquet of flowers", the verb almost always agrees with the singular group noun ("team", "bouquet"), not the plural noun in the prepositional phrase.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The sentence has an incorrect word "than" where a pronoun is needed to act as the object of the verb "consider". We need to find the grammatically correct replacement.


Step 2: Key Concepts

1. Pronoun Reference: The object being considered is "his intention", which is a singular noun. Therefore, the correct pronoun to refer to it is "it".

2. Modal Verbs: Modal verbs like "should" are followed by the base form of the main verb (e.g., "should consider", not "should considers").


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The original sentence is incorrect because "than" is a conjunction used for comparisons, not a pronoun. The object of "consider" should be "intention".

Let's analyze the options:

(A) "would considers" is incorrect verb form. "them" is the wrong pronoun (plural).

(B) "should consider it properly" uses the correct modal verb structure ("should consider") and the correct singular pronoun ("it") to refer to "intention".

(C) "should considers" is incorrect verb form. "them" is the wrong pronoun.

(D) "considers" is the wrong tense/mood. The sentence needs the modal "should" to express obligation or advice.


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (B) is the only choice that corrects both the pronoun reference and the verb form.
Quick Tip: When you see a modal verb (will, would, can, could, may, might, should), always check that the verb immediately following it is in its base form (e.g., 'go', 'see', 'consider'), without an '-s' or '-ing'.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests the correct pronoun case to be used in a comparison.


Step 2: Key Concept: Pronoun Case in Comparisons

In formal grammar, when a pronoun follows "than" or "as" in a comparison, it should be in the subjective case (I, he, she, we, they) if it is the subject of an implied verb.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The sentence is making a comparison: "You are more sociable than he (is sociable)." The full comparison is implied. Because "he" is the subject of the implied verb "is", the subjective pronoun "he" is formally correct, not the objective pronoun "him".

While "than him" is very common in informal speech, formal written English prefers "than he" or "than he is".

Option (A) "more sociable than he is" makes the comparison explicit and is unambiguously correct.

Option (B) is the same as the original, which is informally acceptable but formally incorrect.

Option (C) changes "sociable" to "social" and is incomplete.


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (A) provides the most grammatically correct and clear construction for a formal context.
Quick Tip: To decide between subjective (he) and objective (him) pronouns after 'than', complete the sentence in your head. If the pronoun is doing the action, use the subjective case. "You are more sociable than he is." -> Use "he".

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The sentence contains a double negative, which needs to be corrected.


Step 2: Key Concept: Double Negatives

Words like "scarcely," "hardly," and "barely" have a negative meaning. Using them with another negative word like "not" creates a double negative, which is grammatically incorrect. The correct structure is "had scarcely... when..." or "had hardly... when...".


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The original sentence "He had not scarcely entered" is incorrect because both "not" and "scarcely" are negative. One of them must be removed. The standard idiom is "had scarcely entered when...".

(A) "scarcely entered when" removes the "not", correcting the double negative.

(B) "scarcely entered than" uses the wrong conjunction; "scarcely" is paired with "when", not "than".

(C) "not hardly entered when" is also a double negative.

(D) "scarcely enters" uses the wrong verb tense (present simple); the context requires a past participle ("entered") with "had".


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (A) correctly removes the double negative and maintains the correct idiomatic structure.
Quick Tip: Remember the correct pairings for these negative adverbs: \(\textbf{Scarcely/Hardly... when}\) and \(\textbf{No sooner... than}\). Mixing these up is a common error.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The sentence uses an incorrect idiom. We need to find the correct expression.


Step 2: Key Concept: Idiomatic Expressions

The correct idiom to connect "nothing else" is "but". The standard phrase is "nothing else but...". Another related and more common idiom is simply "nothing but...", which means "only".


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The phrase "nothing else than" is incorrect in standard English. The correct form is "nothing else but".

Let's analyze the options:

(A) "lest" is incorrect; it introduces a clause of purpose to avoid a negative outcome.

(B) This is the same as the incorrect original phrase.

(C) "nothing else except" is redundant, as "else" and "except" have similar meanings here.

(D) "nothing but dishonest" correctly uses the idiom "nothing but" to mean "only". The sentence becomes "He is nothing but dishonest...", which is a concise and grammatically correct way to express the intended meaning.


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (D) provides the best and most idiomatic correction for the sentence.
Quick Tip: Memorize the correct forms of common idioms. The correct pairing is \(\textbf{nothing else but}\), or more commonly and concisely, just \(\textbf{nothing but}\).

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question asks to check the correctness of the prepositions used in the sentence.


Step 2: Key Concepts

1. Despite vs. In spite of: The word "despite" is a preposition and is NOT followed by "of". The phrase "in spite of" is a three-word preposition with the same meaning. "Despite of" is always incorrect.

2. Skill at/in: The noun "skill" can be followed by the prepositions "at" or "in" when referring to an activity. Both are considered correct. "Skill at" often refers to performance in the activity, while "skill in" may refer to general ability within a field.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The original sentence "Despite his age his skill at tennis is good" is grammatically correct.

- "Despite" is used correctly without "of".

- "skill at tennis" is a correct and standard idiomatic expression.

The options introduce errors:

(A) "Despite of" is incorrect.

(B) "skill of tennis" is not the correct idiom.

(C) "skill in tennis" is also correct, but since the original "skill at tennis" is also correct, there is no need for a change.


Step 4: Final Answer

The original sentence is grammatically sound and does not contain any errors.
Quick Tip: Remember that \(\textbf{Despite = In spite of}\). Never write "Despite of". If a sentence is grammatically correct as is, "No change" is the right answer.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests whether the verb "avoid" should be followed by an infinitive or a gerund.


Step 2: Key Concept: Verbs followed by Gerunds

Certain verbs in English must be followed by a gerund (-ing form of a verb) and not by an infinitive (to + verb). "Avoid" is one of these verbs. Others include enjoy, finish, mind, suggest, practice, etc.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The verb "avoid" requires a gerund as its object. The infinitive form "to go" is incorrect.

Incorrect: I cannot avoid to go...

Correct: I cannot avoid going...

Option (A) provides the correct gerund form. Options (B) and (C) add unnecessary prepositions.


Step 4: Final Answer

The correct structure is "avoid going", as provided in option (A).
Quick Tip: Make a list of common verbs that are always followed by a gerund (e.g., avoid, enjoy, finish, quit, mind, suggest). Recognizing these verbs on sight is key to solving this type of question quickly.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

This question tests the meaning and usage of the phrasal verb "give in".


Step 2: Key Concept: Phrasal Verbs

A phrasal verb is a verb combined with a preposition or adverb, creating a meaning different from the original verb.

- give in: to surrender; to cease fighting or arguing.

- give out: to distribute; to become exhausted.

- give away: to reveal a secret; to donate.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The sentence "Only a coward will give in" means that only a coward will surrender. This is a logical and idiomatically correct sentence. The phrasal verb "give in" is used appropriately to convey this meaning. None of the other options fit the context.


Step 4: Final Answer

The original sentence is correct in its use of the phrasal verb "give in". Therefore, no change is necessary.
Quick Tip: Context is crucial for phrasal verbs. Ask yourself if the meaning of the phrasal verb in the sentence makes logical sense. Here, "surrender" fits the context of "coward" perfectly.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests the correct pronoun case to be used after a preposition.


Step 2: Key Concept: Objective Case after Prepositions

"Between" is a preposition. Pronouns that function as the object of a preposition must be in the objective case (e.g., me, him, her, us, them). Subjective case pronouns (I, he, she, we, they) cannot be used here.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

In the phrase "Between he and I", both pronouns are objects of the preposition "between". Therefore, both must be in the objective case.

- The subjective pronoun "he" must be changed to the objective pronoun "him".

- The subjective pronoun "I" must be changed to the objective pronoun "me".

The correct phrase is "Between him and me".


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (C) is the only choice where both pronouns are correctly in the objective case.
Quick Tip: To test pronoun case, isolate the pronoun. You would say "this is a secret between him," not "between he." And "this is a secret between me," not "between I." This trick works for compound objects too.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The sentence combines two adjectives that require different prepositions. The question tests if the correct prepositions are used for both.


Step 2: Key Concept: Prepositions with Paired Adjectives

When two adjectives that take different prepositions are used together to describe the same noun, both prepositions must be included to maintain grammatical correctness.

- "different" is followed by "from" (or "to"/"than" in some dialects, but "from" is most standard).

- "superior" is followed by "to".


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The original sentence omits the preposition "from" which should follow "different". It reads "different... to yours", which is incorrect. The correct structure requires both prepositions to be stated explicitly.

Correct: My car is different from and superior to yours.

Option (A) correctly supplies both prepositions.


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (A) correctly provides the necessary prepositions for both adjectives.
Quick Tip: When you see two adjectives joined by "and", check if they need the same preposition. If not, make sure each adjective has its own correct preposition. Example: "I am interested in and excited about the project."

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests the idiomatic use of the verb "admit".


Step 2: Key Concept: The Idiom "admit of"

The phrasal verb "admit of" means "to allow for the possibility of" or "to leave room for". It is a formal expression. For example, "The situation admits of no delay" means the situation does not allow for any delay.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

In the given sentence, the intended meaning is that the person's conduct does not allow for any possibility of an excuse. The simple verb "admit" (meaning to confess or allow entry) does not fit this context. The correct idiom is "admit of".

Correct: Your conduct does not admit of any excuse.


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (B) correctly uses the idiomatic phrase "admit of".
Quick Tip: Some verbs change their meaning when paired with a preposition. "Admit of" is a less common idiom, so it's a good one to memorize for competitive exams, which often test such nuances.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests whether the verb "resemble" should be followed by a preposition.


Step 2: Key Concept: Transitive Verbs

"Resemble" is a transitive verb, which means it takes a direct object without the need for a preposition. You resemble someone or something.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The original sentence incorrectly adds the preposition "to" after "resembles". The preposition should be removed.

Incorrect: ...resembles to his mother.

Correct: ...resembles his mother.

Option (A) correctly removes the preposition.

Option (B) uses the base form "resemble" which doesn't agree with the singular subject "The child".

Option (C) incorrectly adds the preposition "with".


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (A) provides the grammatically correct structure.
Quick Tip: Remember a list of common transitive verbs that don't take prepositions, such as: discuss, describe, resemble, order, request, enter, and attack. For example, you 'discuss a topic', not 'discuss about a topic'.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests the correct usage of the phrasal verb "to side with".


Step 2: Key Concept: Idiomatic Expressions

1. to side with someone/something: This is a fixed phrasal verb meaning to support or agree with a person or group in a dispute or argument.

2. The + Adjective: Using "the" before an adjective (like "honest", "poor", "rich") refers to the group of people with that quality. "The honest" means "honest people".


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The original sentence "Gandhi sided with the honest" correctly uses the phrasal verb "sided with" and the nominal adjective "the honest". The meaning is clear and grammatically sound: Gandhi supported honest people. The other options use incorrect prepositions or omit the preposition entirely.


Step 4: Final Answer

The sentence is correct as it is. Therefore, no change is needed.
Quick Tip: When a sentence seems correct, trust your judgment but double-check the idiom. Here, "to side with" is a very common and standard expression. The "No change" option is often correct in these cases.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests the use of articles (a/an/the) with a singular countable noun.


Step 2: Key Concept: Articles 'a' vs. 'the'

- a/an (Indefinite Article): Used for a non-specific or general noun. It introduces something for the first time.

- the (Definite Article): Used for a specific noun that is already known to the listener or is unique.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The sentence "She is wearing the new hat" is grammatically correct if the listener knows which specific new hat is being referred to. However, in the absence of any prior context, the more natural and general statement would be to use the indefinite article "a" to introduce the hat. It simply states that she is wearing a new hat, not a specific one known from context. In sentence correction questions without context, the most general and widely applicable choice is usually the best.

(A) "new hat" is incorrect as it lacks an article before a singular countable noun.

(B) "a new hat" is the most appropriate phrasing for a general statement.

(C) "a hat new" has incorrect adjective placement.

(D) "in new hat" is grammatically incorrect.


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (B) provides the most suitable phrasing for a standalone sentence.
Quick Tip: If a sentence correction question involves articles and there is no context, assume a general situation. The indefinite article 'a/an' is typically used to introduce a singular countable noun for the first time.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

This question tests the use of quantifiers (few, little, some).


Step 2: Key Concept: Quantifiers

- Few: Used with countable nouns. It has a negative connotation, meaning "not many" or "almost none".

- A few: Used with countable nouns. It has a positive connotation, meaning "a small number" or "some".

- Some: Used with both countable and uncountable nouns. It is a neutral term for an unspecified quantity.

- Little: Used with uncountable nouns. It has a negative connotation, meaning "not much".


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The original sentence "Swetha has eaten few bad fish" means she has eaten almost no bad fish. While grammatically possible, this is a slightly strange statement. It's more likely the intended meaning is that she ate an unspecified, small quantity of bad fish. "Some" is a neutral quantifier that fits this meaning perfectly without the negative implication of "few".

(A) "bad fish" is incomplete.

(B) "some bad fish" conveys a neutral, logical meaning.

(C) "little" is incorrect because "fish" here is used as a countable noun.

(D) "more" changes the meaning of the sentence entirely.


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (B) provides the most logical and natural-sounding correction to the sentence.
Quick Tip: Remember the difference in connotation: 'few' is negative (I have few friends, so I am lonely), while 'a few' is positive (I have a few friends, so I'm not alone). 'Some' is a safe, neutral alternative for an unknown quantity.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests the correct preposition to use with the verb "prefer" for making comparisons.


Step 2: Key Concept: 'Prefer to'

The standard structure for expressing a preference between two nouns is prefer [Noun A] to [Noun B]. The preposition "than" is incorrect in this context.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The sentence incorrectly uses "than" to compare "apples" and "oranges". The verb "prefer" must be followed by "to".

Incorrect: I prefer apples than oranges.

Correct: I prefer apples to oranges.

Option (C) provides the correct preposition and completes the phrase correctly.


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (C) is the only grammatically correct choice.
Quick Tip: Never use "than" with "prefer" when comparing two nouns. The correct preposition is always "to". Also, adjectives like 'superior', 'inferior', 'senior', and 'junior' are followed by 'to', not 'than'.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question asks us to check the use of the superlative adjective and associated articles and prepositions.


Step 2: Key Concepts

1. Superlative Adjectives: When comparing one item to all others in its group (three or more), the superlative form (e.g., "highest") is used.

2. The Definite Article 'the': The definite article "the" must be used before a superlative adjective.

3. Prepositions for Location: "In" is used for geographical regions like mountain ranges ("in the Alps", "in the Himalayas").


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The original sentence is "Mount Blanc is the highest mountain in the Alps".

- It correctly uses the superlative "highest" because Mount Blanc is being compared to all other mountains in the Alps.

- It correctly uses "the" before "highest".

- It correctly uses the preposition "in" for the mountain range "the Alps".

The sentence is grammatically flawless. The options all introduce errors.


Step 4: Final Answer

The original sentence is correct and requires no change.
Quick Tip: For superlative comparisons, remember the formula: \(\textbf{the + superlative adjective + in/of + group}\). For example, "the tallest boy \(\textbf{in}\) the class" or "the best day \(\textbf{of}\) my life."

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests the correct preposition to use with the verb "pays" in the context of giving something to someone.


Step 2: Key Concept: Prepositional Usage

When an action involves giving or directing something towards a recipient, the preposition "to" is used. The structure is: Verb + Object + to + Recipient.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The state is paying pensions (the object) to the recipients (old people). The preposition "of" is incorrect in this context.

Incorrect: ...pays pension of old people.

Correct: ...pays pensions to old people.

Also, "pension" should be in its plural form "pensions" as it refers to multiple payments to multiple people.

Option (A) correctly uses the preposition "to" and the plural "pensions".


Step 4: Final Answer

The correct phrase is "pensions to old people".
Quick Tip: Remember the structure for verbs of giving: You give something \(\textbf{to}\) someone. The same applies to verbs like pay, send, offer, and show.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question asks for the correct preposition to use with the verb "speaking".


Step 2: Key Concept: 'Speak to' vs. 'Speak with'

- Speak to someone: This generally implies a one-way communication, where one person is doing most of the talking. It is the most common form.

- Speak with someone: This implies a two-way conversation or dialogue.

Both "speak to" and "speak with" are grammatically correct, but they can have slightly different nuances. In many contexts, they are interchangeable. However, "speak to" is often preferred in general usage.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The original sentence "I was speaking with him" is grammatically correct. However, exam questions often look for the most standard or common usage. "Speaking to him" is a very standard and widely accepted construction. Given that it's an option, it is presented as the preferred choice over "with".

Options (A), (C), and (D) use incorrect prepositions or omit the preposition, which is grammatically wrong.

Therefore, "to him just now" is the intended correct answer, representing the most standard phrasing.


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (B) provides the most common and standard prepositional phrase to follow "speaking".
Quick Tip: While both 'speak with' and 'speak to' can be correct, 'speak to' is more frequently used and is often the expected answer in standardized tests when both are options.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

The question tests the correct phrasal verb related to operating a radio.


Step 2: Key Concept: Phrasal Verbs with 'Turn'

- turn on: to start a device.

- turn off: to stop a device.

- turn up: to increase the volume.

- turn down: to decrease the volume.

- turn to: to change the channel or to look for help/information from something.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation

The original sentence "Somebody turned to the radio" could mean somebody switched to a radio station, but it's an ambiguous phrase. The options provided suggest actions of operating the radio. The most common actions are turning it on or off.

(C) turned off: This means they stopped the radio from playing. This is a very common and logical action.

(B) turned in: This means to go to bed or to submit something. It doesn't fit the context.

The phrase "turned of" in option (D) is grammatically incorrect.

Without further context, "turned off" is a standard, logical, and complete action related to a radio.


Step 4: Final Answer

Option (C) provides a correct and common phrasal verb that fits the context of operating a radio.
Quick Tip: Context is key for phrasal verbs. Think about the object (the radio) and what actions are typically performed on it. "Turning on" and "turning off" are the most basic operations.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to arrange the four sentences (A, B, C, D) into a logical and coherent paragraph.


Step 2: Finding the Opening Sentence

Sentence B introduces the main topic of the paragraph: creating a "personal mission statement". It starts with a conditional clause ("If you don't...") that sets up a problem and a suggestion, making it an excellent introductory sentence.


Step 3: Building the Sequence

- After B establishes that one should begin creating a mission statement, Sentence A provides the first concrete step: "Just identify the various areas of your life...". This logically follows B as it explains *how* to begin. So, we have the pair BA.

- Sentence C talks about how "Roles and goals give structure". This elaborates on the "areas of your life" and "important [goals]" mentioned in sentence A. So, C follows A. This gives us the sequence BAC.

- Sentence D states a result: "This gives you an overall perspective...". The word "This" refers to the entire process described in BAC (identifying areas, roles, and goals to structure a mission). Therefore, D is the concluding sentence.


Step 4: Final Answer

The complete logical sequence is B-A-C-D. This matches option (B).
Quick Tip: In sentence arrangement questions, first identify the introductory sentence. It usually introduces the main topic. Then, look for pronoun references (like "This," "They," "It") and transition words (like "So," "And," "But") to find logical links between sentences.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to arrange the four sentences to form a logical paragraph about "urgent matters".


Step 2: Finding the Opening Sentence

Sentence B introduces the topic: "Urgent matters". It makes a general, defining statement about them ("are usually visible"), making it a strong opening sentence.


Step 3: Building the Sequence

- After B introduces "urgent matters," Sentence D elaborates on their nature. The pronoun "They" in D clearly refers to the "Urgent matters" from B. So, "They press on us; they insist on action" logically follows the idea that they are visible. This forms the pair BD.

- Sentence A provides more characteristics of these urgent matters: "They are often popular... right in front of us." This adds to the description started in B and D. The sequence is now BDA.

- Sentence C begins with "And often...", continuing the list of characteristics, but then introduces a crucial contrast with the word "but": "...but so often they are unimportant." This contrast serves as the main point and conclusion of the paragraph. It logically comes last.


Step 4: Final Answer

The complete logical sequence is B-D-A-C. This matches option (A).
Quick Tip: Look for a logical progression of ideas. Here, the paragraph moves from defining a topic (B), to describing its characteristics (D, A), and finally to offering a concluding insight or contrast (C).

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We must arrange the four sentences into a coherent paragraph about the nature of law.


Step 2: Finding the Opening Sentence

Sentence A makes a foundational statement about law: "Law is based on an adversarial concept." This is a strong, general statement that can serve as the topic sentence for the paragraph.


Step 3: Building the Sequence

- After A introduces the adversarial nature of law, Sentence C describes a consequence of this nature: "At best it results in compromise." The pronoun "it" refers to the concept of law from sentence A. This forms the pair AC.

- Sentence B elaborates further on the outcome described in C. The "It" in sentence B refers to the "compromise" mentioned in C. The compromise "provides survival, but it doesn't create synergy." This gives us the sequence ACB.

- Sentence D, starting with "Certainly...", acts as a concluding thought or a concession. After describing the limitations of law (adversarial, leading only to compromise and survival), sentence D acknowledges its necessity ("we need law or else society will deteriorate"). This is a perfect concluding sentence that balances the critique.


Step 4: Final Answer

The complete logical sequence is A-C-B-D. This matches option (D).
Quick Tip: A good paragraph often follows this structure: Topic Sentence -> Supporting Detail 1 -> Supporting Detail 2 -> Concluding Remark. Identify which sentence fits each role.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to arrange the four sentences to create a logical argument about effective communication.


Step 2: Finding the Logical Flow

- Sentence B starts with "So...", indicating a conclusion from a previous, unstated premise. It establishes the main problem: "you cannot do it with technique alone." This sets the stage for what is actually needed, making it a good starting point for the argument presented here.

- Sentence D provides a specific example or reason why technique alone is insufficient: "Unless you are influenced by my uniqueness, I'm not going to be influenced by your advice." This illustrates the need for genuine connection over mere technique. Thus, D logically follows B. We have the pair BD.

- After establishing that technique is not enough and genuine influence is key, sentences A and C provide the solution. Sentence A states what is needed: "build the skill of empathic listening on a base of character that inspires... trust." This is the core solution.

- Sentence C, starting with "And...", adds another component to the solution: "And you have to build the Emotional Bank Accounts...". It is a continuation of the solution presented in A. Therefore, C follows A, giving the pair AC. The full solution is AC.


Step 3: Final Arrangement

The paragraph first presents the problem (B), illustrates it (D), and then provides the two-part solution (A and C). The most logical order is Problem -> Illustration -> Solution.


Step 4: Final Answer

The complete logical sequence is B-D-A-C. This matches option (D).
Quick Tip: Sometimes a sentence starting with "So" or "Therefore" can function as the topic sentence for the paragraph that follows, by stating the problem or thesis that the subsequent sentences will explain.

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to arrange the four sentences to form a coherent paragraph about the mindset of insecure people.


Step 2: Finding the Opening Sentence

Sentence B makes a general statement about "Insecure people" and their worldview. This is a classic topic sentence that introduces the subject of the paragraph.


Step 3: Building the Sequence

- After B introduces the mindset of insecure people, Sentence D describes a direct consequence of this mindset. The pronoun "They" in D refers to the "Insecure people" from B. Because they think everyone should conform to their reality (B), "They have a high need to clone others" (D). This creates the logical pair BD.

- Sentence A describes what "They" (the insecure people) fail to understand. Their need to clone others (D) makes them miss the point that "the very strength of the relationship is in having another point of view" (A). So, A follows D, explaining the flaw in their approach. This gives the sequence BDA.

- Sentence C is a general, philosophical statement: "Sameness is not oneness; uniformity is not unity." This serves as a powerful concluding thought that summarizes the core theme and the mistake of the insecure people described in BDA.


Step 4: Final Answer

The complete logical sequence is B-D-A-C. This matches option (D).
Quick Tip: Paragraphs can build from a general statement about a group (B), to specific behaviors (D), to the implications or errors of those behaviors (A), and end with a summarizing maxim (C).

Step 1: Understanding the Question

We need to arrange the four sentences into a logical paragraph.


Step 2: Finding Logical Pairs

- Sentence C asks a question: "What do we reflect to others about ourselves?".

- Sentence A follows up on this question. The phrase "that reflection" in A directly refers back to the concept of "reflect" introduced in C. So, A must come immediately after C, forming the pair CA. This pair asks a question and then explores its impact.


Step 3: Building the Sequence

- Now that we have the pair CA, let's see where B and D fit. The sequence CA explores the idea of our reflection onto others.

- Sentence D introduces a related but separate idea: "We have so much we can invest in the Emotional Bank Accounts of other people." This is a statement about our capacity to give.

- Sentence B explains a powerful way to make this investment: "The more we can see people in terms of their unseen potential, the more we can use our imagination...". This provides a method or principle that links to the idea of investing in others (D). So, DB could be a pair, but let's see the overall structure.

- The sequence CADB starts with a self-reflective question (C) and its consequence (A). Then it transitions to our capacity to invest in others (D) and how to do it effectively (B). This creates a logical flow from introspection to action.


Step 4: Final Answer

The sequence C-A-D-B provides the most coherent and logical progression of thought. This matches option (A).
Quick Tip: Look for question-answer pairs or cause-effect relationships. Here, the pronoun reference in "that reflection" (A) is a strong clue that it must follow the sentence that introduces the idea of reflection (C).

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks for the meaning of the idiom "Airs and graces".


Step 2: Key Concept:

An idiom is a phrase or an expression that has a figurative, or sometimes literal, meaning. The figurative meaning is different from the literal meaning of the words.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

The idiom "airs and graces" refers to an affected and artificial manner of behaving, intended to impress others. This behavior is often seen as a sign of pretentiousness or snobbery.

Let's analyze the options:

(A) vanity: Excessive pride in or admiration of one's own appearance or achievements. This is closely related to the pretentiousness implied by "airs and graces".

(B) fairies: Mythical beings, not related to the idiom's meaning.

(C) servicing: The action of helping or doing work for someone, unrelated to the idiom.

(D) prayers: Communication with a deity, unrelated to the idiom.

The option that best captures the essence of putting on an artificial and superior manner is vanity.


Step 4: Final Answer:

Therefore, the most appropriate word equivalent in meaning to "Airs and graces" is vanity.
Quick Tip: When dealing with idioms, try to think of a context or a sentence where you might have heard the phrase. For "airs and graces," you might imagine someone acting superior, which helps connect it to concepts like vanity and pretentiousness.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks for the meaning of the idiom "Under a cloud".


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The idiom "under a cloud" means to be in disgrace, under suspicion, or in a state of disfavor. It implies that someone's reputation has been tarnished because they are suspected of having done something wrong.

Let's analyze the options:

(A) in the shade: This is a literal interpretation of "under a cloud," but not the idiomatic meaning.

(B) wet: This is another literal interpretation, suggesting being rained on, which is incorrect.

(C) suspected of wrong doing: This directly corresponds to the idiomatic meaning of being under suspicion or in disgrace.

(D) hopeful: This is the opposite of the idiom's meaning, which implies a negative situation.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The phrase that is equivalent in meaning to "Under a cloud" is suspected of wrong doing.
Quick Tip: Idioms often have meanings that are not obvious from the individual words. "Under a cloud" suggests something negative is hanging over a person, like suspicion or trouble. Memorizing common idioms is crucial for verbal ability sections.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks for the meaning of the idiom "Fight tooth and nail".


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The idiom "fight tooth and nail" means to fight with great ferocity, intensity, and determination. It is derived from the way wild animals fight, using all their natural weapons (teeth and claws). It signifies using all one's resources and energy to achieve a goal.

Let's analyze the options:

(A) bite and scratch your enemy: This is a literal interpretation of the idiom, but the phrase is used figuratively to mean fighting fiercely, not necessarily physically.

(B) make a determined effort: This accurately captures the figurative meaning of fighting with great determination and using all available means.

(C) inflict equal damage: This implies a "tit for tat" situation, which is not the meaning of the idiom.

(D) pull out enemy's teeth and nails: This is a literal and gruesome interpretation, which is incorrect.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The phrase that best represents the meaning of "Fight tooth and nail" is to make a determined effort.
Quick Tip: Many idioms are based on metaphors. "Tooth and nail" are an animal's primary weapons, so fighting with them metaphorically means using every weapon or resource at your disposal with full determination.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks for the meaning of the idiom "Eat out of somebody's hand".


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The idiom "eat out of somebody's hand" means to be completely under someone's control, to be submissive, and to do whatever that person wants. It implies a high degree of influence or control over someone, often because of trust or manipulation.

Let's analyze the options:

(A) take advantage of generosity: While the person in control might be seen as generous, the idiom focuses on the submissiveness of the other person, not on exploitation.

(B) depend on charity: This is related but too specific. The control isn't always financial.

(C) hurt a benefactor: This is contrary to the meaning. The person is being obedient, not harmful.

(D) trust somebody and be willing to obey: This option perfectly describes the state of being so influenced by someone that you are completely submissive and obedient.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The meaning of "Eat out of somebody's hand" is to trust somebody and be willing to obey.
Quick Tip: Visualize the literal action: a wild animal becoming so tame that it eats directly from a person's hand. This image helps to remember the figurative meaning of being completely controlled or submissive.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks to identify the item that does not belong to the group formed by the other three. This is an "odd one out" or classification question.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

We need to find a common property among three of the four options. The options are all forms of visual art.

Let's analyze them based on their dimensions:

(A) photograph: A two-dimensional (2D) image.

(B) painting: A two-dimensional (2D) work of art.

(C) statue: A three-dimensional (3D) work of art.

(D) cartoon: A two-dimensional (2D) drawing.

Three of the items – photograph, painting, and cartoon – are typically two-dimensional representations. A statue is a three-dimensional object.


Step 3: Final Answer:

Based on the dimensionality, the statue is the odd one out as it is 3D, while the others are 2D.
Quick Tip: In "odd one out" questions, look for the most logical and clear basis for grouping. Common bases for grouping include category (e.g., fruits, tools), function, physical properties (like dimensions), or abstract relationships.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

This is an "odd one out" question. We need to find the item that does not share a common characteristic with the other three.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Let's analyze the function of each item:

(A) diary: Used for writing down personal thoughts and experiences, often on a daily basis. It helps organize thoughts and records of time.

(B) calendar: Used for tracking dates, days, and appointments. It helps organize time.

(C) planner: Used for organizing tasks, appointments, and schedules. It helps organize time and activities.

(D) purse: A small bag used for carrying money, keys, and other personal items. Its primary function is carrying objects, not organizing time or information.

The common characteristic among diary, calendar, and planner is that they are all tools for organizing and recording information related to time, events, and schedules. A purse serves a different function.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The purse is the odd one out because it is used for carrying items, whereas the others are used for organizing time and information.
Quick Tip: For classification questions, focus on the primary purpose or function of each item. This often reveals the underlying group logic.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

This is another "odd one out" question where we need to identify the term that doesn't fit with the rest based on a common characteristic.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Let's analyze the profession or role of each person:

(A) preacher: A person who delivers sermons or religious addresses. Their context is religious.

(B) professor: A high-ranking academic teacher at a university or college. Their context is formal, higher education.

(C) lecturer: A person who gives lectures, especially as a profession at a university or college. Their context is formal, higher education.

(D) teacher: A person who teaches, especially in a school. Their context is formal education.

The common link between professor, lecturer, and teacher is that they are all professions within the field of formal, secular education. A preacher's role is primarily in a religious context, not an academic one.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The preacher is the odd one out because their role is religious, while the others are academic professions.
Quick Tip: Look for the context or domain in which the words are used. Here, the distinction between a secular/academic domain and a religious domain is the key to finding the odd one out.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

This is an analogy question. We need to find a pair of words that has the same relationship as 'jewellery' and 'wealth'.


Step 2: Key Concept:

The relationship between 'jewellery' and 'wealth' is that jewellery is a symbol or manifestation of wealth. One who has a lot of jewellery is often considered wealthy. So the relationship is Symbol : Abstract Concept.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

Let's analyze the options based on this relationship:

(A) Spectacles : Learning: Spectacles aid vision, which is necessary for learning (e.g., reading), but they are not a symbol of learning itself. They are a tool.

(B) Turban : Piety: In many cultures, a turban is worn as a symbol of religious faith and piety (devotion). This matches the "Symbol : Abstract Concept" relationship.

(C) Stethoscope : Sailing: A stethoscope is a medical instrument. Sailing is a water activity. There is no clear relationship.

(D) Boomerang : Royalty: A boomerang is a throwing tool. Royalty refers to monarchs and their families. There is no symbolic relationship here.


Step 4: Final Answer:

The pair Turban : Piety has the same relationship as Jewellery : Wealth, where the first item is a symbol of the second.
Quick Tip: In analogy questions, precisely define the relationship between the words in the original pair. Write it down as "A is a [relationship] to B". Then, test each option against this exact relationship.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

This is an analogy question presented in the format A : B :: C : ?. We need to find the word that relates to 'Fatigue' in the same way 'Tears' relates to 'Sorrow'.


Step 2: Key Concept:

The relationship between 'Sorrow' and 'Tears' is that tears are a physical manifestation or result of the emotion of sorrow. So the relationship is Cause : Effect or State : Physical Result.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

We need to find a physical result of 'Fatigue'.

(A) Blood: Blood is a body fluid, not a direct result of fatigue.

(B) Lymph: Lymph is part of the immune system, not a result of fatigue.

(C) Perspiration: Perspiration (sweating) is often a result of physical exertion, which leads to fatigue. It is a physical manifestation associated with the state of being fatigued.

(D) Catarrh: This is inflammation of a mucous membrane, an illness, not a result of general fatigue.

Just as sorrow can cause one to produce tears, fatigue (especially from exertion) can cause one to perspire.


Step 4: Final Answer:

The word that completes the analogy is Perspiration.
Quick Tip: For "Cause and Effect" analogies, ensure the effect is a direct and common consequence of the cause. While fatigue can have many symptoms, perspiration is a direct physical response often linked to the cause of fatigue (exertion).

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

This is an analogy question. We need to find what a 'chauffeur' is related to in the same way a 'Pilot' is related to an 'aircraft'.


Step 2: Key Concept:

The relationship between 'Pilot' and 'aircraft' is that a pilot is the person who operates or drives an aircraft. The relationship is Operator : Vehicle/Machine.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

We need to apply this relationship to 'chauffeur'. A chauffeur is a person hired to drive a motor vehicle.

(A) Kitchenette: This is a small kitchen area, not a vehicle.

(B) Restaurant: This is a place where food is served, not a vehicle.

(C) Car: A car is a motor vehicle that a chauffeur operates. This perfectly matches the relationship.

(D) Cargo: This refers to goods being transported, not the vehicle itself.


Step 4: Final Answer:

A chauffeur operates a Car, just as a pilot operates an aircraft.
Quick Tip: In analogies involving professions, identify the primary tool, place of work, or object of the profession. A pilot's primary object is the aircraft; a chauffeur's is the car.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

We need to determine which of the given assumptions is implicit in the statement. An implicit assumption is something that the speaker takes for granted or presupposes for the statement to be true.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Analyzing the Statement: The statement is a statistical fact. It links a cause (tobacco consumption) to an effect (death from cancer) and quantifies it (ninety people per hour in India).


Analyzing Assumption 1: "Cancer patients do not get proper treatment."

The statement says people die *because of cancer*. It does not provide any information about the quality or availability of medical treatment. People can die from cancer even with the best possible treatment. Therefore, the statement does not presuppose that treatment is improper. This assumption is not implicit.


Analyzing Assumption 2: "The tobacco industry is negligent."

The statement focuses on the consequences of consuming tobacco, not on the actions or ethics of the industry that produces it. While one might argue that selling a product that causes death is negligent, the statement itself does not rely on this assumption. The statement is a factual report on health outcomes, not a judgment on the industry. This assumption is not implicit.


Step 3: Final Answer:

Since neither assumption is necessarily true for the statement to hold, Neither 1 nor 2 is implicit.
Quick Tip: In statement-assumption questions, stick strictly to what the statement logically presupposes. Do not bring in your own general knowledge or moral judgments. The statement here is a statistic and does not assume anything about treatment or industry negligence.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

We need to evaluate which assumption is implicit in the given statement. The statement is a simple declaration of fact.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Analyzing the Statement: The statement simply says that the price of making telephone calls has decreased.


Analyzing Assumption 1: "More people make telephone calls now."

This is a possible consequence or effect of telephone calls becoming cheaper. According to the law of demand, a lower price usually leads to higher quantity demanded. However, it is not an assumption. The statement about the price being cheaper is true regardless of how many people are making calls. It is an inference, not a presupposition.


Analyzing Assumption 2: "Telephone is no longer a status symbol."

This is also a likely consequence. When something becomes cheap and widely accessible, it often loses its value as a status symbol. But the statement itself does not depend on this being true. The price can drop whether it's a status symbol or not. Therefore, this is not an implicit assumption.


Step 3: Final Answer:

Both assumptions are potential outcomes of the statement, not prerequisites for it. Thus, Neither 1 nor 2 is implicit.
Quick Tip: Distinguish between an assumption and an inference/conclusion. An assumption is something the speaker must believe is true *before* making the statement. An inference is something that follows *from* the statement. Both points here are inferences, not assumptions.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

We must determine which assumptions are implicitly made in the sweeping statement provided.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Analyzing the Statement: The statement makes a universal claim: "Everybody loves watching TV soaps."


Analyzing Assumption 1: "All have TV sets."

For "everybody" to love "watching" TV soaps, it is necessary that everybody has the means to watch them. Having a TV set (or access to one) is a prerequisite for the act of watching. Therefore, the speaker must be assuming that everyone has the capability to watch TV. This assumption is implicit.


Analyzing Assumption 2: "Soaps are good entertainment."

The verb "loves" implies a strong positive feeling. If everybody loves watching something, the speaker must assume that this something provides a positive experience, such as being good entertainment. The reason for loving to watch them is their entertainment value. This assumption is also implicit.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The statement presupposes both the means (access to TV) and the motive (entertainment value). Therefore, Both 1 and 2 are implicit.
Quick Tip: When a statement makes a strong, universal claim (using words like "all," "everybody," "always"), look for the necessary conditions that must be true for such a claim to be made.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

We need to modify the word 'CLANDESTINE' according to a specific rule about capitalization.


Step 2: Key Approach:

1. Identify the letters at the specified positions.

2. Change them to lower case.

3. Keep all other letters in upper case.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

The word is CLANDESTINE. It has 11 letters.

C(1) L(2) A(3) N(4) D(5) E(6) S(7) T(8) I(9) N(10) E(11)


Rule 1: The third letter must be in lower case.

The 3rd letter is 'A'. It becomes 'a'.


Rule 2: The middle letter must be in lower case.

For an 11-letter word, the middle letter is the \((11+1)/2 = 6^{th}\) letter.

The 6th letter is 'E'. It becomes 'e'.


Rule 3: The ninth letter must be in lower case.

The 9th letter is 'I'. It becomes 'i'.


Applying all rules:

The resulting word should be: CLaNDeSTiNE.


Checking the options:

(A) CIANDESTiNe - Incorrect.

(B) CLaNdeSTINE - Incorrect, as the 9th letter 'I' is uppercase.

(C) CLANDESTINE - Incorrect.

(D) CLaNDeSTINE - Incorrect, as the 9th letter 'I' is uppercase. (Options B and D appear identical).


There seems to be a typographical error in the question or the options, as none of the options perfectly match the derived answer CLaNDeSTiNE. However, option (B) correctly changes the 3rd ('a') and middle ('e') letters. It is the closest match and likely the intended answer, assuming there was an error in the "ninth letter" part of the instruction.


Step 4: Final Answer:

Based on the closest match, we select option (B) CLaNdeSTINE, which fulfills the first two conditions.
Quick Tip: In competitive exams, if you find a discrepancy between your calculated answer and the options, re-read the question carefully. If the discrepancy persists, choose the option that is the "most correct" or fulfills the most conditions.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

We are looking for a word that appears unchanged when viewed in a mirror. This involves lateral inversion.


Step 2: Key Concept:

For a word to look the same in a mirror, two conditions must be met:

1. Letter Symmetry: All letters in the word must be vertically symmetrical. The letters that are unchanged by mirror reflection are A, H, I, M, O, T, U, V, W, X, Y.

2. Word Symmetry: The word itself must be a palindrome (reads the same forwards and backwards), because a mirror reverses the order of the letters.


Step 3: Detailed Explanation:

Let's check each option against these two conditions.


(A) TYOMOYW:

- Letter Symmetry: T, Y, O, M, O, Y, W are all vertically symmetrical. (Condition 1 is met).

- Word Symmetry: Is it a palindrome? The first letter is 'T' and the last is 'W'. T \(\neq\) W. It is not a palindrome. (Condition 2 is not met).


(B) WINTOMT:

- Letter Symmetry: The letter 'N' is not vertically symmetrical. (Condition 1 is not met).


(C) MIWOWIM:

- Letter Symmetry: M, I, W, O, W, I, M are all vertically symmetrical. (Condition 1 is met).

- Word Symmetry: Is it a palindrome? It reads the same forwards and backwards. (Condition 2 is met).

Since both conditions are met, MIWOWIM will look the same in a mirror.


(D) HOSYWTH:

- Letter Symmetry: The letter 'S' is not vertically symmetrical. (Condition 1 is not met).


Step 4: Final Answer:

The only option that is a palindrome and consists entirely of vertically symmetrical letters is MIWOWIM.
Quick Tip: To solve mirror image word problems quickly, first scan for any non-symmetrical letters (like B, C, D, E, F, G, J, K, L, N, P, Q, R, S, Z). If found, eliminate the option. Then, for the remaining options, check if they are palindromes.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks what the passage indicates the American government is planning to do.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The passage begins by contrasting the government's uncertainty about Saddam Hussein with its clear decision on how to handle corporate crime: "it has already decided how to go after alleged evildoers in Big Business - with guns blazing." The phrase "with guns blazing" suggests a fast, aggressive, and decisive approach. The subsequent descriptions of swift FBI arrests of executives from Adelphia and WorldCom reinforce this idea. The entire tone of the passage points to a determined crackdown on corporate criminals.

- Options (A) and (B) misinterpret the introductory sentence, which uses Saddam Hussein only as a point of contrast.

- Option (C) is the opposite of what the passage states; the government is pursuing the "evil doers," not following their example.

- Option (D) accurately summarizes the government's approach as described in the passage.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The passage clearly indicates that the government intends to punish corporate crime expeditiously and decisively.
Quick Tip: Pay close attention to figurative language in reading comprehension passages. Phrases like "with guns blazing" and "full-scale offensive" are strong indicators of the author's intended meaning about the subject's attitude and actions.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks what specific actions President Bush warned corrupt businessmen his officials would take, based on the quote in the passage.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Let's examine the quote from President Bush: "...we're going to find you, we're going to arrest you and we're going to hold you to account..."

- "we're going to find you" directly corresponds to statement I, "track down criminals."

- "we're going to arrest you" directly corresponds to statement II, "detain them."

- Statement III, "verify transactions," is part of the investigative process required to find evidence of wrongdoing ("fudge the books"), but it is not explicitly mentioned in the President's warning itself. The warning focuses on the consequence for the criminals (being found and arrested).


Step 3: Final Answer:

Based on the direct quote provided in the passage, the warning includes tracking down and detaining criminals. Therefore, the correct option is I and II only.
Quick Tip: When a question refers to a specific quote or part of the text, base your answer only on the information explicitly stated in that part. Avoid making inferences about what might have been implied unless the question asks you to.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

We need to identify the statement that best summarizes the central theme or main idea of the entire passage.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The passage describes a very aggressive and public crackdown on corporate crime. It uses phrases like "guns blazing," "star treatment," and "parading the handcuffed quarry." It also includes a lawyer's complaint about the "unfair taint of the current political climate" and mentions that this offensive might be politically motivated ("with mid-term congressional elections looming"). This paints a picture of a justice process that might be more focused on spectacle and speed than on due process.

- (A) Too many businessmen are being too hastily prosecuted. This statement captures the critical tone of the passage, highlighting the speed and public nature of the arrests, which may be perceived as hasty.

- (B) Like Saddam Hussain, Big Business is in trouble. This is incorrect. The passage uses Saddam as a contrast to show the administration's decisiveness on corporate crime.

- (C) Electronic accounting systems have proved their inadequacy. The passage mentions "fudging the books" but never discusses the systems used.

- (D) Western business ethics have never been exemplary. This is a generalization that is too broad for the passage, which focuses on a specific, contemporary crackdown.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The statement that best captures the passage's focus on the aggressive, public, and potentially rushed nature of the government's actions is Too many businessmen are being too hastily prosecuted.
Quick Tip: To find the main idea, look for the recurring theme and the author's tone. Here, the tone is slightly critical and descriptive of a rushed, high-pressure environment, which makes (A) the best fit.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

This is an "except" question. We need to find the action from the list that the passage does NOT mention the FBI doing.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Let's check the passage for evidence of each action:

- (A) hauling in of John Rigas and his two sons: The passage states, "A week after hauling in Adelphia Communication's... founder, John Rigas, and two of his sons..." This is mentioned.

- (B) arrest of World Com executives.: The passage says, "...FBI agents gave former WorldCom executives Scott Sullivan and David Myers the same star treatment..." "Star treatment" refers to the high-profile arrest method. This is mentioned.

- (C) Public display of men in handcuffs.: The passage states the FBI was "...parading the handcuffed quarry in an early-morning prep walk..." This is mentioned.

- (D) Confiscating their movable and immovable properties.: The passage details arrests, investigations, indictments, and plea bargains. However, there is no mention of the FBI confiscating the property of the executives.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The action not mentioned in the passage is Confiscating their movable and immovable properties.
Quick Tip: For "except" questions, methodically go through each option and try to find its exact location or proof in the text. The one you cannot find is the correct answer. This requires careful, detail-oriented reading.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks what positive factor the stock market ignored when it "swooned" (declined sharply). We need to find the cause for potential investor confidence that was mentioned in the passage right before the market's decline.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The passage states: A senior administration official says of the high-profile arrests, "'But of course they're a big help. It means the system is working, and that helps with [investor] confidence.' If so, that wasn't reflected in the stock market, which swooned on Thursday and Friday."

This clearly shows that the market swooned despite the claim that the arrests would help with investor confidence. The claim is that "the system is working" which should create confidence.

- (A) is a partial reason for the claim, but (C) is the claim itself.

- (B) and (D) are not mentioned in the passage.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The stock market swooned despite Claims that the system works in creating investor confidence.
Quick Tip: Look for contrast words like "despite," "however," "but," or "although" in reading comprehension. They often signal a key relationship. Here, the passage explicitly contrasts the expected positive effect on confidence with the actual negative market performance.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks what lesson can be learned from the Wall Street scandals of the 1980s, according to the passage.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The passage brings up this historical event in the following context: "Arrests and indictments don't necessarily result in convictions - think back to the Wall Street scandals of the 1980s."

This sentence directly uses the 1980s scandals as an example to prove the point that arrests and indictments (the initial stages of prosecution) are not the same as securing a conviction (the final stage). This implies that getting a conviction is a difficult, uncertain part of the process.

- (A), (B), and (D) are not supported by this specific reference in the text.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The reference to the 1980s scandals is used to show that Getting conviction is the hardest part of prosecution.
Quick Tip: When a passage provides an example ("think back to..."), the point it's trying to illustrate is usually stated in the sentence immediately preceding or following the example.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks what the passage indicates about the House Energy and Commerce Committee.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Let's analyze the sentence about the committee:

- (A) It is an "invitation list" for hearings, not a party.

- (B) It mentions "more hearings", not postponements.

- (C) It is "contemplating" hearings, which means planning, not that it "has started" investigating.

- (D) The information came from a "committee source" who spoke to "TIME". This means the author of the passage is using TIME as their source. While we can't be sure what the Committee itself thinks, the structure of the reporting relies on TIME. Given the flaws in A, B, and C, this might be considered the intended answer by interpreting "the passage states" as pointing to the source of the passage's own information. The information *about* the committee *in the passage* comes from TIME.


Step 3: Final Answer:

Based on the text, the information about the committee's plans was provided to the author via TIME magazine, suggesting the author (and by extension, the passage) regards TIME as a reliable source of information.
Quick Tip: In questions with potentially flawed options, use the process of elimination. A, B, and C contain clear contradictions with the text ("party" vs hearings, "postponements" vs more hearings, "has started" vs contemplating). Option D is an inference about the source of the information, making it the most plausible choice.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks about the government's chosen strategy for handling the corporate crime situation described.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The passage is filled with words that describe an aggressive, proactive strategy. It mentions going after evildoers "with guns blazing" and describes the administration's belief that "the best defense is a full-scale offensive." This language clearly contrasts with a passive or reactive approach. The government is actively pursuing and arresting executives. This is an active form of law enforcement.

- (A), (B), and (C) are nonsensical and not supported by the text. The White House's "cozy links" to corporations like Harken and Halliburton are mentioned as a political liability that motivates the crackdown, not as a tool to solve it.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The government's strategy is to adopt an active rather than a passive form of law enforcement.
Quick Tip: Pay attention to the overall tone and descriptive language of a passage. Words like "offensive," "guns blazing," and "full-scale" all point towards an active, aggressive stance.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

This is a detail-oriented question asking to identify which company is associated with a discrepancy of over a billion dollars.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

We need to scan the last paragraph of the passage for the specific figure "
(1 billion" or "a billion dollars".

The passage states: "...telecom firm Qwest, already under investigation... is close to restating the past three years of earnings by more than
)1 billion;..."

This directly links Qwest to the billion-dollar discrepancy.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The company with a discrepancy of more than a billion dollars is Qwest.
Quick Tip: For questions that ask about specific details (names, numbers, dates), quickly scan the text for that keyword. Once you find it, read the entire sentence it's in to ensure you understand the context correctly.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks for the meaning of the phrase "full-scale" as used in the passage. This is a vocabulary-in-context question.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The phrase appears in the sentence: "...the Bush administration seems to believe that the best defense is a full-scale offensive."

In a military or strategic context, a "full-scale" offensive means an attack that is not limited or partial, but one that uses all available resources and is comprehensive. It implies totality and intensity.

- (A) "the same size" is irrelevant.

- (C) and (D) refer to systems of measurement and are completely unrelated.

- (B) "complete and thorough" perfectly captures the meaning of an all-out, comprehensive action.


Step 3: Final Answer:

In this context, "full-scale" means complete and thorough.
Quick Tip: When determining the meaning of a word or phrase, always read the sentence it is in. The surrounding words provide clues to its intended meaning. Here, "offensive" tells you the context is strategic action, not measurement.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks what the passage implies about the "show business" industry.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The passage states, "But show business imposes strict requirements on appearance, and when the dial on the Singaporean TV actress's bathroom scales spun to more than 48 kilos, de Cruz started taking a Chinese diet pill...". This sentence directly links the "strict requirements" of show business to Andrea De Cruz's decision to take diet pills when her weight exceeded 48 kg. This implies that a weight over 48 kg is considered unacceptable or is disapproved of in her profession.

- (A), (B), and (D) are not mentioned or supported by the text. The colleague provided the pill, not the industry itself.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The passage suggests that show business Disapproves of actresses who weigh more than 48 kilos.
Quick Tip: Look for cause-and-effect relationships in the text. The cause was "show business imposes strict requirements," and the effect was Andrea taking diet pills when her weight went over 48 kg. This connection reveals the nature of the "requirements."

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks for the direct cause of Andrea de Cruz's serious illness.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The passage explains that after taking a diet pill named Slim 10 for two months, she was "near death unconscious in a hospital". It further clarifies the cause: "But they came to suspect that an ingredient in the diet drug had ravaged her liver, which had all but shut down." This directly states that the diet pill caused the damage that led to her illness.

- (A) The weight increase was the reason she took the pill, not the cause of the illness itself.

- (C) and (D) are incorrect interpretations of the text.


Step 3: Final Answer:

Andrea de Cruz became seriously ill after a diet pill damaged her health.
Quick Tip: Differentiate between the root cause (pressure from show business), the trigger (weight gain), and the direct cause of the event in question (the diet pill damaging her liver). The question asks for the immediate cause of the illness.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks what the doctors concluded about Andrea's condition.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The passage describes the diagnostic process: "Doctors at first were baffled. But they came to suspect that an ingredient in the diet drug had ravaged her liver...". The word "suspect" in this context is synonymous with "surmised" or "hypothesized". They formed a conclusion based on the evidence available.

- (A) The doctors were baffled, not Andrea.

- (B) The passage doesn't say if they revealed their suspicions or not.

- (C) This option accurately reflects the doctors' conclusion.

- (D) The passage does not mention any orders from the doctors.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The doctors surmised that her liver was damaged by a diet drug.
Quick Tip: Pay attention to synonyms. "Suspect" in a medical context often means to form a preliminary diagnosis or to surmise based on symptoms. Knowing such synonyms helps in matching the passage's language to the options.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks specifically what action Pierre Png took to save Andrea's life.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The text is very clear on this point: "De Cruz's life was saved by an emergency transplant after her fiance', actor Pierre Png, donated half his own liver." The act of donating half his liver means he agreed to have it surgically removed and transplanted to her.

- (A), (B), and (C) are incorrect. He didn't buy a liver, finance the operation by selling his liver (he donated it), or perform the surgery.


Step 3: Final Answer:

Pierre Png saved her life because he Agreed to have half his liver transplanted to her.
Quick Tip: Read carefully to avoid misinterpretations. "Donated" is the key verb here. It means he gave it, not that he sold it or performed the surgery. Match the option that accurately describes this action.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks for the function of the immunosuppressant drugs Andrea takes.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The passage provides a direct explanation: "She now takes immunosuppressant, which keep her body from rejecting the transplant but leave her weak and vulnerable to further illness." The primary function mentioned is to "keep her body from rejecting the transplant."

- (B) is incorrect; it prevents rejection, not weakens the organ.

- (C) is incorrect; the drug is a cause of weakness, it doesn't make it disappear.

- (D) is the opposite of the drug's effect. "Immuno-suppressant" literally means it suppresses the immune system, making her more vulnerable, not stronger.


Step 3: Final Answer:

Immunosuppressants have the effect of preventing the rejection of transplanted organ.
Quick Tip: Even without reading the passage, the word "immunosuppressant" itself gives a clue. "Immuno" refers to the immune system, and "suppressant" means to subdue or stop. It stops the immune system from attacking the new organ.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks about the status of Andrea and Pierre's wedding.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The passage describes Andrea's state of mind: "She's wary of planning her wedding to Png, more than a year away, fearing she may not survive that long." This indicates that the wedding is planned for a future date ("more than a year away") but is uncertain because of her health fears.

- (A) is incorrect; it's in the future.

- (B) The passage doesn't say it was postponed, just that she is wary of planning for it.

- (C) This refers to the duration of a marriage, which is not the topic.

- (D) This option captures both the future timing ("in a year") and the uncertainty ("hopefully"). It is the best description of the situation.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The wedding will hopefully take place in a year.
Quick Tip: Pay attention to the emotional tone and context. Words like "wary" and "fearing" indicate uncertainty, which is best captured by the word "hopefully" in the correct option.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks what happened to Selvarani Raja.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The passage provides a specific account: "In June, fellow Singaporean Selvarani Raja, a 43-year-old logistics manger at Singapore Technologies, died from liver failure. She had started taking the same diet supplement, Slim 10, in April." This sentence directly states her fate.

- (A) She was 43 years old, she did not work for 43 years.

- (B) She was a logistics manager, not in the medical unit.

- (C) This is stated explicitly in the passage.

- (D) There is no mention of bankruptcy or addiction.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The fate of Selvarani Raja was to die in June from liver failure.
Quick Tip: For questions about a specific person or event, scan the text for their name and read the surrounding sentences carefully. Be cautious of distractors that use numbers or words from the text in a misleading way (like "43 years old" vs. "work for 43 years").

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

This is a vocabulary-in-context question asking for the meaning of "regimens".


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The word appears in a list: "...the smorgasbord of weight-loss products and "miracle" diet aids, ranging from "fat reducing" pressurized boots to expensive massage regimens." The context is about things people use for weight loss and body improvement. A "regimen" is a regulated course, such as of diet, exercise, or therapy, designed to preserve or restore health. In this list, "massage regimens" refers to a systematic plan of massages for health or cosmetic purposes.

- (B), (C), and (D) are other meanings of "regime" or "regimen" but do not fit the health and wellness context of the sentence.


Step 3: Final Answer:

In this passage, "regimens" means methods of health improvement.
Quick Tip: Use context clues from a list to define a word. Since "regimens" is listed alongside "weight-loss products" and "diet aids," its meaning must be related to health and self-improvement methods.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks for the meaning of "toxicity" as used in the passage.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The sentence is: "Over the past two years, seven women in Japan, Singapore and China have died due to the toxicity of the substances they ingested...". The cause of death is linked to the "toxicity" of the substances. Something that causes death when ingested is poisonous. Therefore, toxicity refers to the quality or degree of being poisonous or harmful.

- (A) and (B) are irrelevant.

- (D) "Intoxication" usually refers to being drunk or drugged, while "poisonous" is more general and fits the context of death better. "Quality of being poisonous" is the precise scientific definition.


Step 3: Final Answer:

In this passage, "toxicity" means the quality of being poisonous.
Quick Tip: Look at the outcome connected to the word. The outcome here is death. The word must therefore describe a quality that can cause death. Of the options, only "poisonous" fits.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks to identify from the list (China, Korea, Hong Kong) where the passage explicitly states that diet drugs have caused deaths.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Let's carefully read the relevant sentences:

1. "Over the past two years, seven women in Japan, Singapore and China have died due to the toxicity of the substances they ingested..." - This confirms deaths in China (I).

2. "Similar drugs were implicated in deaths in China last year, with scores more falling ill in Korea and Hong Kong..." - This sentence explicitly mentions "deaths in China" again, but for Korea and Hong Kong, it specifies "falling ill". It does not mention deaths in Korea or Hong Kong.

Therefore, based on the precise wording of the passage, only China from the given list is mentioned as a location of deaths.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The passage states that diet drugs caused death in China, but only illness in Korea and Hong Kong. Thus, the correct option is I only.
Quick Tip: Be extremely precise when reading for details. The author's choice to distinguish between "deaths in China" and "falling ill in Korea and Hong Kong" in the same sentence is deliberate and crucial for answering this question correctly.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks about the author's preconceived notion or prior opinion of Dubai before the trip.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

We need to find a sentence in the passage where the author talks about what she knew or heard about Dubai beforehand. The passage states: "I had heard about Dubai's unique formula of treating its visitors right, but was least prepared for all the fuss and attention...". This sentence explicitly shows that the author had a prior opinion that Dubai treats its visitors well. The reality, however, exceeded her expectations.

- (A), (B), and (D) are not mentioned as prior opinions of the author.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The author proceeded to Dubai with the earlier opinion that the city treated visitors right.
Quick Tip: Look for phrases like "I had heard," "I knew," or "I was told" to identify an author's pre-existing beliefs or opinions before the events of the narrative.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks for the author's description of the airport immigration hall.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The author poses a rhetorical question to describe her impression: "Was this really the Airport Immigration hall or had I walked into a ship, and happening party room?" She then describes the scene with "colourful streamers, buntings, and banners everywhere," "music floating in the air," and "happy faces all around," which reinforces the "happening party room" atmosphere. The mention of "ship" is also part of her initial surprised comparison.

- (A), (C), and (D) are not mentioned in the passage.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The airport immigration hall looked to the author like a ship and happening party room.
Quick Tip: Pay attention to metaphors, similes, and rhetorical questions in descriptive writing. The author uses a question ("Was this... or had I walked into...") to express her surprise and convey her vivid impression of the place.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks to describe the character and behavior of the immigration officer the author encountered.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

The passage describes the author's interaction with the officer: "While the lady scrutinised the documents, I stole a glance at her... She was not the fierce looking officer that I had imagined a few moments ago. And, she asked none of those awful questions that I had imagined. 'Welcome to Dubai,' she smiled. Phew... that was easy!"

This description indicates that the officer was not fierce, did not ask difficult questions, and was welcoming and pleasant ("she smiled"). The act of checking documents implies patience. Therefore, "patient and polite" is the most fitting description.

- Option (A) is incorrect as she was not scornful.

- Option (B) is not supported by the text.

- Option (D) is the opposite of what is described.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The lady officer at the checking point was patient and polite.
Quick Tip: In character description questions, look for both direct statements (e.g., "she smiled") and indirect clues about behavior (e.g., the author's relief that the process "was easy").

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks what form of transport connects the Creek crossing to the Diera side of the city.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

In the "Day 1" section, the author narrates her journey: "I boarded the local bus to reach the Creek crossing. The simple wooden boat, the abra, was packed with people wanting to go to the other side of the city, the Diera side." This sentence explicitly states that the "abra" is the boat used for this crossing.

- The dhow is mentioned later as a larger trading vessel.

- A steamer and a road are not mentioned for this specific journey.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The Creek crossing and Diera are connected by the abra.
Quick Tip: For questions about specific details like names or places, scan the text for those keywords. The answer is usually in the same sentence or the one immediately following.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks about the function of the rectangular structures the author saw.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

Under the "Day 1" section, the author describes her visit to the Bastakiya area: "The wind towers, of which I had heard so much about, caught my attention. These rectangular structures sit on top of traditional flat roofed buildings, catching the slightest breeze and grueling the wind down into the structure. The earliest form of air-conditioning, I told myself." The passage directly identifies these structures (wind towers) as an early form of air conditioning.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The rectangular structures were utilized for the purpose of air conditioning.
Quick Tip: When the text includes a description followed by the author's own thought or conclusion ("I told myself"), that conclusion is often the key piece of information being tested.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks to identify the place that the author describes as a mandatory visit for a first-time visitor.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

During the description of her first evening on Day 1, the author writes: "Our first stop was the famous gold souk, a must see for every first time visitor." The phrase "must see" directly answers the question.


Step 3: Final Answer:

According to the author, the gold souk is a must-visit for every first-time visitor to Dubai.
Quick Tip: Look for explicit recommendations in the text using phrases like "must see," "must visit," or "highly recommended" to answer questions about the author's suggestions.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks for the reason why the author and her friends experienced body stiffness.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

At the beginning of the "Day 3" section, the author describes waking up: "A long, deep groan shook me out of my deep slumber... A little into the morning saw all of us grimacing over our stiff bodies - the outcome of the previous day's water pursuits!" The passage explicitly states that the stiff bodies were the "outcome" of the water activities from the previous day (Day 2), which included snorkeling, parasailing, and diving.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The stiff bodies were caused by the previous days water pursuits.
Quick Tip: Look for words indicating cause and effect, such as "outcome," "result," "because of," or "due to." Here, "outcome" directly links the stiffness to the water sports.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks what clothing the author wore to look like an "Arab woman."


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

In the "Day 3" section, the author decides to embrace the local culture: "By now, the local spirit had inspired me enough to don a baya, and a headscarf. Looking, every inch an Arab woman, I decided to step into the act completely." The text specifies a "baya" (a likely typo for abaya, a type of robe) and a "headscarf." Option (C) matches this description exactly.


Step 3: Final Answer:

She dresses herself with an abaya and a headscarf.
Quick Tip: Be aware of possible typos in the source text ("baya" for "abaya"). Choose the option that is the closest and most logical match to the text's description.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks to identify the event or scene that the author found indescribably beautiful.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

At the end of the "Day 3" narrative, the author describes a final attraction: "The icing on the cake was the awe-inspiring 'Aqua Fantasia' at the nearby Creek Park. There aren't enough words to describe the brilliant display of light and water, responding to the many moods of music." This sentence directly connects the phrase "not enough words to describe" with the "brilliant display of light and water."

- Option (C) refers to the desert safari, which the author found exhilarating but did not describe as indescribable in this way.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The scene that there are not enough words to describe was the brilliant display of lights on water.
Quick Tip: When an author uses extreme language like "there aren't enough words," "indescribable," or "breathtaking," it highlights a peak moment in the narrative. Pay close attention to what is being described at that point.

Step 1: Understanding the Question:

The question asks for the name of the venue for the world's richest horse race, as mentioned in the passage.


Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

In the "Day 4" section, the author reflects on events she will miss: "I spotted two tickets lying on the coffee table... the 'Dubai World Cup', they said. Wasn't that the world's richest horse race held at Nad Al Sheba?" The author explicitly names "Nad Al Sheba" as the location.

- Bastakiya area is the heritage site.

- Global Village is an entertainment and shopping venue.

- The Desert Classic is mentioned as a separate tennis/golf event, not the horse race.


Step 3: Final Answer:

The world's richest horse race is held at a place called Nad Al Sheba.
Quick Tip: Be careful to distinguish between different events and locations mentioned close together in the text. The passage mentions the Dubai World Cup (horse race at Nad Al Sheba), the Dubai Tennis Open, and the Dubai Desert Classic (golf) as separate events.