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English Usage Test 22

Description: English Usage Test - Free english verbal ability test for entrance examinations like mba entrance, gre, sat, gmat, toefl preparation and practice tests
Number of Questions: 25
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Tags: English Usage Test English Skills GRE Preparation GMAT TOEFL SAT English Verbal Ability English Speaking IELTS LAW Bank PO English Verbs Sentence Rearrangement Letter E Antonyms Letter D Letter G Letter A Letter C Logical Reasoning (Sentence Based) Reasoning Verbal Reasoning
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Directions: Select the word most nearly opposite in meaning to the given word.

DERISION

  1. Fun

  2. Mockery

  3. Gratitude

  4. Praise


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

'Derision' means making fun of someone or something. The opposite of this would be saying good words about someone, which is praising. So, answer is (4).

Directions: In the following question, five statements are provided. These statements form a coherent paragraph when properly arranged. Select the alternative representing the proper and logical sequencing of these statements.

A. A variety of measures will have to be introduced to put the family planning campaign back on its feet.
B. For this, the programme has to look inwards and treat itself as a development input in its own right. C. In fact, development is the best method of controlling population growth though the reverse is also true that high population growth is a sure recipe for slow, if not negative development. D. Family planning needs to be salvaged from the morass into which it has drifted. E. Legal measures may help, but what is urgently required is social awareness and involvement to create responsible parenthood.

  1. DBCAE

  2. ABDCE

  3. DECAB

  4. AEDCB


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Out of D and A, D initiates the sequence as it introduces the subject 'Family planning needs to be salvaged'. 'For this' in B refers to the subject in D, thus, we have DB link. Similarly, ‘Legal measures’ in E refers to ‘variety of measures’ in A, thus, E follows A. This sequence is found in (1), which is the answer.

Directions: Select the word most nearly opposite in meaning to the given word.

GRIM

  1. Convivial

  2. Serious

  3. Unfriendly

  4. Solitary


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

'Grim' is being gloomy, cruel, or grim. We have to find an antonym for this word. The words serious, unfriendly and solitary are on the same lines as grim whereas 'convivial' is jovial, hearty and friendly. This indicates that (1) is the answer.

Directions: Select the word most nearly opposite in meaning to the given word.

EERIE

  1. Macabre

  2. Grizzly

  3. Interesting

  4. Pleasing


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

'Eerie' means ghostly, weird or frightful. Looking for an antonym for the same, we find a direct antonym in (4) which is pleasing.

Directions: Select the word most nearly opposite in meaning to the given word.

ALLEVIATE

  1. Reduce

  2. Rejoice

  3. Elevate

  4. Sober


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

If you don't confuse with the meanings of 'alleviate' and 'elevate', this is an easy question to crack. Alleviate means to decrease or lessen whose direct opposite is elevate i.e. increase or heighten. So, the answer is (3).

Directions: Select the word most nearly opposite in meaning to the given word.

CONDONE

  1. Placate

  2. Plagiarize

  3. Convict

  4. Contusion


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

To condone means to forgive. Its opposite will be to charge someone with a crime. Now, it is easy to find the answer, isn't it. The answer will be (3) i.e. to convict.

Directions: An assertion is a point of view. An argument is a statement meant to convince another about a certain point of view. A counter-argument contains logic opposed to your assertion. Based on these, classify the four sentences given in question.

(A) Concluding assertion (B) Supporting reason (C) Statement irrelevant to the argument (D) Counter- argument

A. What constitutes culture is a question with no answer.

B. The beliefs constituting a particular culture may be derived from several sources. C. Several conflicting schools of thoughts may be present in a culture. D. Culture is an amalgamation of numerous beliefs, cohesively blended into a social fiber.

  1. ACBD

  2. DBBA

  3. ABBD

  4. ACCD


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Option (2) DBBA Sentence to be used as assertion is 'culture is an amalgamation of numerous beliefs, cohesively blended into a social fiber' which is D. As asserted in sentence A, the idea is directly opposite to the one given here. Therefore, it has been correctly marked as a counter argument. Sentence B as well as C are easily seen as supporting argument to the given question. Thus, given classification is perfectly valid. This marks option (2) as correct answer.

Directions: Choose the appropriate option and fill in the blank.

Over these roads and ________ eagerly streamed the advance agents of civilization.

  1. cascades

  2. tributaries

  3. watercourses

  4. maunders


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

This sentence highlights a very general statement that almost all the civilization of the world advanced on roads and near water bodies. 'Cascades' is waterfall, hence ruled out. 'Maunders' is to move or act in dreamy, vague way, hence, irrelevant in this context. “Water courses” is more general and broad term and includes all types of water bodies, instead of tributaries, which is more specific. Hence, (3) is the answer.

Directions: Choose the appropriate option and fill in the blank.

Before 1975, when the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act was approved, handicapped children were routinely ________ by public schools, unwilling to provide the accommodation they needed and help taking notes in class.

  1. turned away

  2. kept busy

  3. engaged

  4. called


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The operative word in this sentence is 'before 1975', which implies handicapped children were not entertained by public schools before the govt emphasized on their education. 'Turned away' in (1) fits our prediction, hence, the answer.

Directions: Choose the appropriate option and fill in the blanks.

After a lot of very serious, expensive and ________ laboratory research involving, for instance, telomeres in the chromosomes of certain cells, scientists have ________ there is a link between stress and aging.

  1. exoteric, negotiated

  2. blatant, analysed

  3. arcane, deferred

  4. esoteric, determined


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The first blank must be in tandem with 'serious' and 'expensive'. Hence, 'arcane' and 'esoteric' are synonyms, meaning understood by only a few, fits our prediction for first blank. 'Deferred' means postponed, hence would not give sense to the second blank, as scientists have discovered something. Hence, (4) is the answer.

Directions: Choose the appropriate option and fill in the blanks.

It is one of the paradoxes in the ways of earth and sea that that a process seemingly so _____, so _____ in nature can result in an act of creation.

  1. destructive, catastrophic

  2. ruinous, serendipitous

  3. calamitous, salutary

  4. formulative, constructive


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The operative word in this sentence is 'paradox', which means a statement contrary to common belief. As a process has resulted in an act of creation, that means the process has to be destructive. As both the blanks are in continuity, hence, both should be negative. The only option that satisfies our prediction is (1), hence, the answer.

Directions: In the following question, the word in bold is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4. Choose the option in which the usage of word is incorrect or inappropriate. Evade

  1. Ironically, the VDIS of 1997, encouraged people to evade taxes.

  2. The Finance Minster tends to evade questions on disinvestment.

  3. Why do you evade me always?

  4. Oh God! Happiness always evades me.


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Why do you always evade me? Error-position of the adverb-always

Directions: An assertion is a point of view. An argument is a statement meant to convince another about a certain point of view. A counter-argument contains logic opposed to your assertion. Based on these, classify the four sentences given in question.

(A) Concluding assertion
(B) Supporting reason (C) Statement irrelevant to the argument
(D) Counter- argument

A. The process of evolution thus led to the greater chances of growth of humans. B. The rate of genetic mutations in mammals is low. C. Humans faced a genuine threat from stronger animals who could have easily killed them. D. Evolution favoured humans who have the capability of manipulating heavier objects to their advantage.

  1. ADCC

  2. BDCA

  3. BCDA

  4. ADCB


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Option (3) BCDA Sentence to be used as assertion is 'evolution-favoured humans who have the capability of manipulating heavier objects to their advantage'. Sentence A describes same idea as given in above sentence, therefore, it can appropriately be marked as B. There has been no reference to genetic mutation or mammals in above given sentence, therefore B can also be marked irrelevant. Sentence C which describe humans threatening by animals and animals being stronger then human is contradictory statement, so, it can be appropriately marked as counter argument. Therefore, given classification of option (3) is correct and thus, option (3) can be marked as correct answer.

Directions: Choose the appropriate option and fill in the blank.

We are all animated with the spirit of an industry which is ________ and unrestrained, because each person works for himself.

  1. unfettered

  2. repressed

  3. pampered

  4. impounded


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The clue word in this sentence is “and”, thus the blank must be replaced by a word that means similar to unrestrained. “Unfettered” in (1) means free from restraint of any kind, hence the answer.

Directions: An assertion is a point of view. An argument is a statement meant to convince another about a certain point of view. A counter-argument contains logic opposed to your assertion. Based on these, classify the four sentences given in question.

(A) Concluding assertion
(B) Supporting reason (C) Statement irrelevant to the argument
(D) Counter- argument

A. Psychology must keep pace with technological changes.

B. Man tries to prove that he is good at something or the other.

C. Over-compensation in one field results when a man is weak in some other field. D. A person, howsoever inferior in a field, may never try to develop his other attributes.

  1. ABBD

  2. CBDA

  3. ADCC

  4. CBAD


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The sentence marked as assertion is 'over compensation in one field result when a man is weak in some other filed'. Sentence A can easily be seen irrelevant to assertion as it introduces term psychology which hasn't been referenced in our assertion. But on other hand, sentence D proposes idea exactly opposite to the one proposed in C. This implies our given classification as perfectly valid. So, option (4) is correct.

Directions: An assertion is a point of view. An argument is a statement meant to convince another about a certain point of view. A counter-argument contains logic opposed to your assertion. Based on these, classify the four sentences given in question.

(A) Concluding assertion
(B) Supporting reason (C) Statement irrelevant to the argument
(D) Counter- argument

A. The Cosmos has been deeply researched and painstakingly catalogued to gain control over its details. B. The realm of the Cosmos is infinite and incomprehensible by normal human standards. C. The sheer size of the Cosmos can deter the most assiduous of workers. D. Man must explore new horizons and create world peace henceforth.

  1. DABC

  2. ADBC

  3. CCBA

  4. CCDA


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Option (1) DABC The sentence marked, as assertion is 'the realm of cosmos is infinite and incomprehensible by normal human standards'. Sentence A is directly in contrast to given sentence. Sentence C can correctly be used as supporting reason. 'Word place as' referenced in sentence D marks it irrelevant to the context of the given assertion. This implies given classification as perfectly valid. This marks option (1) as correct.

Directions: In the following question, the word in bold is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4. Choose the option in which the usage of word is incorrect or inappropriate.

God

  1. Some religious fundamentalists try to play God in a common man's life.

  2. I wish God, you have a bright future.

  3. God willing, we shall win.

  4. For God's sake tell me your name.


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

I wish to God, you have a bright future. Error-Wrong phrasal usage-wish God is wrong.

Directions: In the following question, the word in bold is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4. Choose the option in which the usage of word is incorrect or inappropriate.

Even

  1. The train was not even half full, even so, I did not get the reservation.

  2. Reliance Industries will break even in the next quarter.

  3. Since I have paid you the final installment, I am even with you.

  4. The cricket match between India and Pakistan was even game.


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Was an even game. Error-Article omitted.

Directions: In the following question, the word in bold is used in four different ways, numbered 1 to 4. Choose the option in which the usage of word is incorrect or inappropriate.

Precipitate

  1. If the price of LPG goes up in the domestic market, it will precipitate inflation.

  2. The precipitate decision made by the CEO has jeopardized the future of the organization.

  3. The mountain ranges of the Himalayas have a precipitate slope.

  4. A war at this time will precipitate the crisis.


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Have a precipitous slope. Error-wrong usage of the word precipitate.

Directions: Choose the appropriate option and fill in the blank.

Under great handicaps - indeed with an appetite ________ by privation - the westering pioneer cherished the crumbs of book learning and culture.

  1. imbued

  2. whetted

  3. tempted

  4. intimidated


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The word for the blank must be that favours or stimulates privation. As 'whet' means to make keen, stimulate, fits our prediction. Moreover, whet is usually used with appetite. Hence, (2) is the answer.

Directions: In the following question, five statements are provided. These statements form a coherent paragraph when properly arranged. Select the alternative representing the proper and logical sequencing of these statements.

A. He ended with the reminder that Hong Kong would always be in the hands of patriots. B. He also said that they should never contain anti–Chinese demands. C. This way Martin Lee is decidedly not a patriot. D. What is a menacing definition of Patriotism? E. He said that the future Hong Kong governments would be freely and universally selected.

  1. DCEAB

  2. DCEBA

  3. EABDC

  4. EBADC


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

On Looking at D and E, we know that E is a better starting point. B should follow E because it adds something to what he said. The only option with this arrangement is option (4). If we see the DC link, C must follow D as it states an example of a patriot. Hence, (4) is the answer.

Directions: In the following question, five statements are provided. These statements form a coherent paragraph when properly arranged. Select the alternative representing the proper and logical sequencing of these statements.

A. Its proponents admit, however, that sociological explanations involve some form of intellection which is universalistic, call it 'sociological apperception', 'empathy', or 'sociological imagination', but simultaneously they also hold that explanation of specific forms of change in the cultural context of a nation requires delineation of conceptual categories applicable only to that particular culture. B. The ideological orientation, however, is not only confined to the formulation of the goals of social change, but also extends to the specific form the sociological categories which have to analyze change. C. This particularism of some Indian sociologists introduces yet another ideological element in the analysis of change. D. To achieve this goal, a case for the development of a particularistic or typical Indian sociology is made. E. Hence, they claim that there should be an Indian sociology distinct from sociology in the West or in other parts of the world.

  1. BDAEC

  2. BEADC

  3. ADCEB

  4. DCEBA


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

B begins the sequence as it introduces the subject - 'Ideological orientation of social change'. This is followed by D as 'these goals' in D refers to 'goals' in B. Now, the important point to notice is that C would not follow D as 'this particularism' refers to 'particularistic' in D. 'Its proponents' in A talks of particularistic ideology in D, which is an explanation to D, thus, giving us BDA link. 'They' in E refers to 'proponents in A, thus, we have BDAE link. Finally, C sums up the particularistic ideology, therefore, concludes the sequence. Hence, (1) is the answer.

Directions: In the following question, five statements are provided. These statements form a coherent paragraph when properly arranged. Select the alternative representing the proper and logical sequencing of these statements.

A. An Indian professor (Amartya Sen, now settled in the USA and working in Harvard University) in a prestigious JRD Tata Memorial lecture in Delhi, in August 1995, on “Population Stabilization Programme” favoured 'cooperation' approach and denounced the use of coercion to bring down the lines of two famous theories of Condorcet (of France) and Malthus (of Britain).
B. Condorcet believed that female education would lead people to choose voluntarily smaller families and lower fertility rates. C. An important question has been raised now by some thinkers pertaining to population policy - that of cooperation vs coercion, or incentives vs disincentives, or Kerala model vs Chinese model. D. There are some thinkers who support cooperation while there are others who support coercion. E. He supported Condorcet's approach to the problem of population which talked of the emergence of new norms of small family size based on 'the progress of reason'.

  1. CADBE

  2. ADBEC

  3. CDAEB

  4. BAECD


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

As the thought of this para jumble is expressed in C, therefore C initiates the sequence. This narrows down our approach to 2 options either (A) or (B). 'He' in E refers to 'Indian professor' in A, thus, we have AE link. Statement B explains the Condorcet's view, thus, it follows AE. Hence, (3) is the answer.

Directions: In the following question, five statements are provided. These statements form a coherent paragraph when properly arranged. Select the alternative representing the proper and logical sequencing of these statements.

A. The figures given are based only on estimates. B. Registration with the employment exchange being voluntary, not all the unemployed register their names in the exchanges. C. Though it is often repeated that there has been an alarming rise in unemployment in our country since independence, the exact number of unemployed persons is not yet known, as no survey has been undertaken either by the Planning Commission or by the National Simple Survey (NSS), or the Central Statistical Organization (CSO) or the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI). D. The estimates only take into consideration the number of persons registered in the employment exchanges and these employment exchanges cover mainly the urban areas. E. Further, some of the registered persons are already employed but register again to seek better employment.

  1. CADBE

  2. ADEBC

  3. CDBAE

  4. BAEDC


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

C begins the sequence as it introduces the subject 'magnitude of unemployment', followed by A which explains it further. A is followed by D as 'estimates' is the link that connects these 2 statements. Similarly, D is followed by B as 'employment exchanges' link both the statements. This sequence is found in (1), hence it is the answer. 

Directions: In the following question, five statements are provided. These statements form a coherent paragraph when properly arranged. Select the alternative representing the proper and logical sequencing of these statements.

A. In 2 years, the war of Jenkins Ear was to fade into insignificance in the face of the war of the Austrian succession in Europe. B. Britain was jubilant when Walpole was forced to give way over the issue of war with Spain. C. The Admiral was dispatched to the Caribbean where he duly sacked the town and destroyed its fortifications, barely a month after war had been declared. D. One of the loudest of the voices clamoring for war was that of Admiral Vernon who declared that he could capture Porto Bello, the important Spanish trading post on the Isthmus of Panama with just six men-of-war. E. Vernon became a national hero but his subsequent exploits were a failure.

  1. ACEDB

  2. BDCEA

  3. BCEAD

  4. DBECA


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

As we might not be able to figure out the starting or concluding sentence, let's look for the links. Looking carefully at the options, C follows D as C elaborates on Vernon who is mentioned in D. E follows with a comment on the outcome. Thus, we have DCE link, which is found only in option (2), hence the answer.

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