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General English (Railway Apprentice Exam)

Description: English Section Railway Assistant Exam Category by Rakhi Mathur
Number of Questions: 60
Created by:
Tags: English Section Railway Assistant Exam Category by Rakhi Mathur Error Identification Context Based Word Meanings Antonyms Idiomatic and Phraseal Use Preposition and Conjunction One Word Substitution Reading Comprehension
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Directions: The following sentence has been broken into three parts (1), (2) and (3). If there is any grammatical error in any of these parts, that is the answer. If there is no error, the answer is (4).

(1) Some of the guests might be important (2) to his future in politics (3) but he was dressed to impress. (4) No error

  1. (1)

  2. (2)

  3. (3)

  4. (4)


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The conjunction ‘and’ is used to indicate an additional thing, situation or fact. It links words and phrases.

Directions: The following sentence has been broken into three parts (1), (2) and (3). If there is any grammatical error in any of these parts, that is the answer. If there is no error, the answer is (4).

(1) He said he is starting a new party, (2) unless the present party did not reflect (3) the views and aspirations of the cadres. (4) No error

  1. (1)

  2. (2)

  3. (3)

  4. (4)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Option (2) is incorrect because the conjunction ‘unless’ is used to indicate a condition. In this context, the correct subordinating conjunction should be a word that indicates the cause and effect relationship between the clauses. ‘Because’ or ‘since’ will be correct in this context.

Directions: The following sentence has been broken into three parts (1), (2) and (3). If there is any grammatical error in any of these parts, that is the answer. If there is no error, the answer is (4).

(1) Despite India trying its best to prevent Chinese submarines (2) from stopping in Sri Lanka, (3) another Chinese attack submarine is docking in Colombo. (4) No error

  1. (1)

  2. (2)

  3. (3)

  4. (4)


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Option (3) is incorrect as ‘stopping’ is in the present participle. The corresponding verb in a sentence cannot end in present participle and should end in past participle. 

Directions: The following sentence has been broken into three parts (1), (2) and (3). If there is any grammatical error in any of these parts, that is the answer. If there is no error, the answer is (4).

(1) Government is permitting transfer of private land (2) to industrial, tourism or hydel purposes (3) within a very short period. (4) No error

  1. (1)

  2. (2)

  3. (3)

  4. (4)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Option (2) is incorrect. The preposition ‘for’ is used to indicate an intention of benefitting someone or something aimed at somebody. 

Directions: The following sentence has been broken into three parts (1), (2) and (3). If there is any grammatical error in any of these parts, that is the answer. If there is no error, the answer is (4).

(1) The story added to a growing debate (2) over whether the Government (3) was failing in their most basic duties. (4) No error

  1. (1)

  2. (2)

  3. (3)

  4. (4)


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The pronoun ‘their’ is used for plural possessive pronouns. The correct pronoun in this context is ‘its’.

Directions: Select the synonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

This is a fundamental question for a country whose CORE objectives in foreign policy remain the promotion of democracy and the rule of law around the world.

  1. Intrinsic

  2. Minor

  3. Original

  4. Pivotal


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Intrinsic means natural or innate.

Directions: Select the synonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

The party clearly wants to use its share in power to expand its political CLOUT.

  1. Authority

  2. Prestige

  3. Influence

  4. Blow


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

In this context, clout refers to influence, pull or muscle power through political power.

Directions: The following sentence has been broken into three parts (1), (2) and (3). If there is any grammatical error in any of these parts, that is the answer. If there is no error, the answer is (4).

(1) As you miss home or car loan installment, (2) not only are you slapped with a penalty, (3) but your credit score also suffers. (4) No error

  1. (1)

  2. (2)

  3. (3)

  4. (4)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 ‘If’ is the condition of failing to pay the installment.

Directions: The following sentence has been broken into three parts (1), (2) and (3). If there is any grammatical error in any of these parts, that is the answer. If there is no error, the answer is (4).

(1) The actor was happy he got (2) the part in a movie (3) although the part was a small one. (4) No error

  1. (1)

  2. (2)

  3. (3)

  4. (4)


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Option 2 is incorrect as there is incorrect article usage in this segment.

Directions: Select the synonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

Although I was ELATED about the trip, I was also nervous at the thought of flying for the first time.

  1. Enchanted

  2. Exalted

  3. Praised

  4. Excited


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

To be excited or happy about something is the correct answer.

Directions: The following sentence has been broken into three parts (1), (2) and (3). If there is any grammatical error in any of these parts, that is the answer. If there is no error, the answer is (4).

(1) When she was youngest, (2) my baby sister was incredibly innocent (3) and fell for all my tricks. (4) No error

  1. (1)

  2. (2)

  3. (3)

  4. (4)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The correct comparative degree in this context is ‘younger’ as the superlative degree is youngest.

Directions: Select the synonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

Policy measures and DILIGENT monitoring are needed to control the situation.

  1. Busy

  2. Constant

  3. Weary

  4. Clever


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Busy is to be attentively engaged in work. 

Directions: Select the the phrase that defines the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

The death sentence IMPOSED on five Indian fishermen by a Sri Lankan court for drug trafficking has added an unfortunate dimension to relations between the two countries.

  1. To take advantage

  2. To inflict as penalty

  3. To force oneself on others

  4. To deceive others


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The correct synonym in this context is ‘to inflict penalty’. 

Directions: The following sentence has been broken into three parts (1), (2) and (3). If there is any grammatical error in any of these parts, that is the answer. If there is no error, the answer is (4).

(1) It is said that in life, (2) be it friendships or fights, (3) nothing last forever. (4) No error

  1. (1)

  2. (2)

  3. (3)

  4. (4)


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Option (3) is incorrect as there is subject verb disagreement in this segment.

Directions: Select the synonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

The idea of being stuck in an office all day is ABHORRENT to a nature-lover like me.

  1. Contrary

  2. Disgusting

  3. Revolting

  4. Attractive


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The correct answer in this context is being contrary to something. 

Directions: Select the synonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

The floodwaters are expected to RECEDE in a few days.

  1. Fade

  2. Taper

  3. Withdraw

  4. Advance


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

To fade is to lose colour and to taper is to become smaller at one end. The correct word in this context is the withdrawal of flood water.

Directions: Select the synonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

The Pope is a VENERABLE leader who is recognised for his commitment to helping others.

  1. Respected

  2. Grand

  3. Sedate

  4. Aged


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The correct word in this context is respected as it refers to commanding respect due to high office or noble character.

Directions: The following sentence has been broken into three parts (1), (2) and (3). If there is any grammatical error in any of these parts, that is the answer. If there is no error, the answer is (4).

(1) It is normal for your memory to deteriorate as you get older, (2) but there are some factors (3) who can accelerate this deterioration considerably. (4) No error

  1. (1)

  2. (2)

  3. (3)

  4. (4)


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Option (3) is incorrect due to incorrect pronoun usage in this segment. The relative pronoun ‘who’ is used for individuals. In this context, the noun ‘factors’ does not refer to humans.  The correct relative pronoun is represented by ‘that'.

Directions: Select the synonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

Unpacking all these boxes is going to require a great deal of TENACITY.

  1. Perseverance

  2. Inflexibility

  3. Courage

  4. Timidity


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The correct word in this context is perseverance. 

Directions: Select the synonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

The DEPOSITION of the football coach has left the team without a leader.

  1. Dejection

  2. Impeachment

  3. Removal

  4. Ejection


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The correct word in this context is the removal of the coach from his position.

Directions: Select the antonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

He is an ADEPT juggler who can easily manage four balls in the air without dropping one.

  1. Proficient

  2. Capable

  3. Incompetent

  4. Coarse


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Being adept is being competent and proficient at something. The correct antonym is incompetent. 

Directions: Select the antonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

Your DNA at the scene is INFALLIBLE evidence that you committed the crime.

  1. Dependable

  2. Conclusive

  3. Imperfect

  4. Accurate


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Infallible means exempt from failure or error.

Directions: Select the antonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

The woman looked HAGGARD after sitting up for a week with her dying husband.

  1. Lean

  2. Starved

  3. Healthy

  4. Emaciated


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Haggard means having a gaunt, sickly, lean appearance. Healthy is the correct antonym.

Directions: Select the antonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

After he faked his death, he attended his own funeral INCOGNITO to see what people were saying about him.

  1. Anonymously

  2. Openly

  3. Disguised

  4. Privately


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Being incognito is being hidden. 

Directions: Select the antonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

The boy has admirable GUMPTION to face his bully.

  1. Initiative

  2. Resourcefulness

  3. Ignorance

  4. Prudence


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Gumption means to have resourcefulness and initiative means to achieve something. Ignorance is the correct antonym.

Directions: Select the antonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

Take COPIOUS notes in class, so that you have plenty of review material for the test.

  1. Extensive

  2. Meager

  3. Expansive

  4. Rich


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Copious means abundant or large in number. Meager is the correct antonym. 

Directions: Select the antonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

You need to have at least a RUDIMENTARY understanding of technology before you can upload a video on that website.

  1. Complex

  2. Simple

  3. Early

  4. Rough


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Rudimentary means basic or simple. Complex is the correct antonym of rudimentary.

Directions: Select the antonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

In spite of the cold weather, we made an ARBITRARY trip to the beach.

  1. Erratic

  2. Capricious

  3. Consistent

  4. Despotic


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Something dependent upon someone’s will without restriction is arbitrary. Consistent is the correct antonym.

Directions: Select the antonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

Ellen will need to work on her ELOCUTION before she competes in the public speaking competition.

  1. Articulation

  2. Pronunciation

  3. Speech

  4. Silence


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Elocution is the form or ability of delivering a speech. Silence is the correct antonym of elocution.

Directions: Select the antonym of the word occurring in the sentence in capital letters.

The politician promised to answer all questions which were PERTINENT to his campaign promises.

  1. Applicable

  2. Inapplicable

  3. Happy

  4. Solid


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Pertinent means something that relates directly or significantly to the matter. Inapplicable is the correct antonym. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

They are determined to _______ for their rights.

  1. stand by

  2. stand over

  3. stand in

  4. stand up


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The idiom ‘to stand up’ means to assert for something. This is the correct answer.

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

______ you want to go home now?

  1. Did

  2. Do

  3. Does

  4. Have


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The correct auxiliary verb in this context is ‘do’. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

He ______ answer for his misdeeds.

  1. might

  2. could

  3. ought

  4. shall


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The auxiliary verb ‘shall’ is the correct answer. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

This book explains the topics such that a layman ______ understand.

  1. might

  2. may

  3. should

  4. shall


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The auxiliary verb may is used to express contingency, purpose or result in clauses introduced by that or so that. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

Only men _______ go to university in those days.

  1. should

  2. would

  3. could

  4. might


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Should is used to express obligation or condition. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

The car company has _______ all the last years’ models.

  1. called up

  2. called back

  3. called off

  4. called down


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The phrase ‘called back’ means to recall a defective product for repair. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

Our boxers _______ in the knowledge that they did their best in the games.

  1. talk sense

  2. stand tall

  3. tell a tall tale

  4. are a tall order


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The idiom ‘stand tall’ means to feel pride and confidence in one’s abilities. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

My friend is __________ about whether or not he should accept the job offer.

  1. down at heels

  2. cooling his heels

  3. dragging his heels

  4. digging in his heels


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The correct idiom in this context is ‘dragging his heels’ as it means acting slowly or reluctantly. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

His wife has ______ his business after his death.

  1. carried out

  2. carried away

  3. carried on

  4. carried off


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The phrase ‘carried on’ means managed. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

The lock on the main door was broken _____ robbers.

  1. for

  2. in

  3. by

  4. from


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

‘By’ is a preposition of agency or instrumentality. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

I am doing some volunteer work at the hospital in order to ______ in the water and see if I like the medical field.

  1. go toe to toe

  2. get a toehold

  3. dip my toe

  4. tread on toes


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

To dip one’s toe is to slowly start to do something new to see if you like it. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

The trees were cut down to make way _____ the widening of the road.

  1. for

  2. to

  3. in

  4. about


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The preposition ‘for’ indicates something that is intended to benefit somebody or something. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

Her cupboard is the cleanest thing ____ the house.

  1. at

  2. for

  3. of

  4. in


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The correct answer in this context is ‘in’. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

Our data is based ____ empirical evidence collected in numerous studies.

  1. at

  2. in

  3. on

  4. of


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The correct answer in this context is ‘on’. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

Today, I met Shiva who has just returned home _____ Goa.

  1. at

  2. from

  3. for

  4. towards


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The preposition ‘from’ indicates the source or beginning of something in terms of location etc.

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

My parents introduced me to people of various cultures ____ an early age.

  1. in

  2. on

  3. for

  4. at


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

‘For’ indicates something that is intended to benefit somebody or something.

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

Sorry for his actions, the defendant confessed to everyone ____ the courtroom.

  1. on

  2. in

  3. above

  4. below


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The confession takes place inside the courtroom, not physically above or below it.

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

Kolkata is an important port ____ the river Hoogly.

  1. in

  2. on

  3. about

  4. for


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The preposition ‘on’ is the correct answer in this context.

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

Since you wrote a letter expressing remorse, I will forgive and accept you back ____ my life.

  1. into

  2. from

  3. at

  4. out


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The correct answer in this context is ‘into’. 

Directions: Choose the correct option to fill in the blank.

Arya takes ____ me in his mannerisms.

  1. on

  2. into

  3. after

  4. about


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The correct answer in this context is ‘after’. 

Directions: The following item consists of a stem followed by four words. One of the four words can be used as a substitute for the stem.

A person who has odd habits

  1. Anarchist

  2. Eccentric

  3. Crazy

  4. Boring


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

A person who has odd habits is an eccentric.

Directions: The following item consists of a stem followed by four words. One of the four words can be used as a substitute for the stem.

One who plays a game for pleasure and not professionally

  1. Apprentice

  2. Recruit

  3. Aspirant

  4. Amateur


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

An amateur plays a game for pleasure and not professionally.

Directions: The following item consists of a stem followed by four words. One of the four words can be used as a substitute for the stem.

A story that is short and amusing

  1. Legend

  2. Memoir

  3. Anecdote

  4. Narrative


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

An anecdote is a short and amusing story. 

Directions: The following item consists of a stem followed by four words. One of the four words can be used as a substitute for the stem.

One who believes everything is predestined

  1. Fatalist

  2. Stoic

  3. Religious

  4. Calm


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

A fatalist believes everything is predestined in life. 

Directions: The following item consists of a stem followed by four words. One of the four words can be used as a substitute for the stem.

One who loves books

  1. Lecturer

  2. Savant

  3. Bibliophile

  4. Aficionado


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

A bibliophile loves books. 

Directions: The following item consists of a stem followed by four words. One of the four words can be used as a substitute for the stem.

A speech made without preparation

  1. Eulogy

  2. Debate

  3. Epilogue

  4. Extempore


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

 A speech made without preparation is an extempore.

What allows corruption to go unchallenged?

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the question that follows.

Corruption often goes unchallenged when people do not speak out about it. Witness accounts offer invaluable insights into corruption, and are powerful tools in the fight against it. From exposing multi-million dollar financial scams to dangerous medical practices, whistleblowers play a crucial role in saving resources and even lives.
But in some countries, blowing the whistle can carry high personal risk – particularly when there is little legal protection against dismissal, humiliation or even physical abuse. Controls on information, libel and defamation laws, and inadequate investigation of whistleblowers’ claims can all deter people from speaking out.
Whistleblowers are less likely to report workplace misconduct when their employers do not provide clear internal reporting channels. And in some settings, whistle-blowing carries connotations of betrayal rather than being seen as a benefit to the public. Ultimately, societies, institutions and citizens lose out when there is no one willing to cry foul in the face of corruption

Whistleblowers are invaluable in exposing corruption, fraud and mismanagement. Early disclosure of wrongdoing or the risk of wrongdoing can protect human rights, help to save lives and preserve the rule of law. When witnesses of corruption are confident about their ability to report it, corrupt individuals cannot hide behind the wall of silence.

 

  1. When people do not speak out about it

  2. When people are not against it

  3. When laws do not protect whistleblowers

  4. When there is no legal protection for whistleblowers


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The first sentence of the passage answers this question. Corruption often goes unchallenged when people do not speak out about it.

What deters people from speaking against corruption?

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the question that follows.

Corruption often goes unchallenged when people do not speak out about it. Witness accounts offer invaluable insights into corruption, and are powerful tools in the fight against it. From exposing multi-million dollar financial scams to dangerous medical practices, whistleblowers play a crucial role in saving resources and even lives.
But in some countries, blowing the whistle can carry high personal risk – particularly when there is little legal protection against dismissal, humiliation or even physical abuse. Controls on information, libel and defamation laws, and inadequate investigation of whistleblowers’ claims can all deter people from speaking out.
Whistleblowers are less likely to report workplace misconduct when their employers do not provide clear internal reporting channels. And in some settings, whistle-blowing carries connotations of betrayal rather than being seen as a benefit to the public. Ultimately, societies, institutions and citizens lose out when there is no one willing to cry foul in the face of corruption

Whistleblowers are invaluable in exposing corruption, fraud and mismanagement. Early disclosure of wrongdoing or the risk of wrongdoing can protect human rights, help to save lives and preserve the rule of law. When witnesses of corruption are confident about their ability to report it, corrupt individuals cannot hide behind the wall of silence.

 

  1. Connotations of betrayal

  2. Mismanagement of whistleblowers

  3. Corrupt individuals

  4. High personal risk


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The second paragraph of the passage answers this question. Bowing the whistle can carry high personal risk and can deter people from speaking out.

When do the whistleblowers not report workplace misconduct?

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the question that follows.

Corruption often goes unchallenged when people do not speak out about it. Witness accounts offer invaluable insights into corruption, and are powerful tools in the fight against it. From exposing multi-million dollar financial scams to dangerous medical practices, whistleblowers play a crucial role in saving resources and even lives.
But in some countries, blowing the whistle can carry high personal risk – particularly when there is little legal protection against dismissal, humiliation or even physical abuse. Controls on information, libel and defamation laws, and inadequate investigation of whistleblowers’ claims can all deter people from speaking out.
Whistleblowers are less likely to report workplace misconduct when their employers do not provide clear internal reporting channels. And in some settings, whistle-blowing carries connotations of betrayal rather than being seen as a benefit to the public. Ultimately, societies, institutions and citizens lose out when there is no one willing to cry foul in the face of corruption

Whistleblowers are invaluable in exposing corruption, fraud and mismanagement. Early disclosure of wrongdoing or the risk of wrongdoing can protect human rights, help to save lives and preserve the rule of law. When witnesses of corruption are confident about their ability to report it, corrupt individuals cannot hide behind the wall of silence.

 

  1. When employers do not provide clear internal reporting channels

  2. When there are connotations of betrayal connected to whistle-blowing

  3. When there are libel and defamation laws

  4. When there is high personal risk


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The first line of the third para gives the answer to this. Whistleblowers are less likely to report workplace misconduct when their employers do not provide clear internal reporting channels.

‘Whistleblowers are invaluable in exposing corruption.’ What does ‘invaluable’ mean in this context?

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the question that follows.

Corruption often goes unchallenged when people do not speak out about it. Witness accounts offer invaluable insights into corruption, and are powerful tools in the fight against it. From exposing multi-million dollar financial scams to dangerous medical practices, whistleblowers play a crucial role in saving resources and even lives.
But in some countries, blowing the whistle can carry high personal risk – particularly when there is little legal protection against dismissal, humiliation or even physical abuse. Controls on information, libel and defamation laws, and inadequate investigation of whistleblowers’ claims can all deter people from speaking out.
Whistleblowers are less likely to report workplace misconduct when their employers do not provide clear internal reporting channels. And in some settings, whistle-blowing carries connotations of betrayal rather than being seen as a benefit to the public. Ultimately, societies, institutions and citizens lose out when there is no one willing to cry foul in the face of corruption

Whistleblowers are invaluable in exposing corruption, fraud and mismanagement. Early disclosure of wrongdoing or the risk of wrongdoing can protect human rights, help to save lives and preserve the rule of law. When witnesses of corruption are confident about their ability to report it, corrupt individuals cannot hide behind the wall of silence.

 

  1. Whistleblowers can become rich.

  2. Whistleblowers can prevent many misdeeds.

  3. Whistleblowers can assist in the enforcement of laws.

  4. Whistleblowers can help breach the wall of silence.


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The last para of the passage gives this answer. Early disclosure of wrongdoing or the risk of wrongdoing can protect human rights, help to save lives and preserve the rule of law.

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