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Verbal Ability - 3

Description: cet mah Structural ErrorsStructural ErrorsStructural ErrorsStructural ErrorsVocabularyVocabularySentence CompletionSentence CompletionConclusionConclusion
Number of Questions: 50
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Directions: The following sentence has been divided into four parts 'a', 'b', 'c' and 'd'. Mark the part which has an error. If there is no error, mark 'e'.

(a) By and large
(b) our production pattern (c) has conformed (d) to that of the last year.

  1. (a)

  2. (b)

  3. (c)

  4. (d)

  5. (e)


Correct Option: E
Explanation:

The sentence has no error.

Directions: The following sentence has been divided into four parts 'a', 'b', 'c' and 'd'. Mark the part which has an error. If there is no error, mark 'e'.

(a) I wasn't knowing (b) that I committed (c) so many errors (d) in speaking and writing English

  1. (a)

  2. (b)

  3. (c)

  4. (d)

  5. (e)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

I didn't know: The sentence is in the simple past tense, so the verb in option a should be “didn't know”.

Directions: The following sentence has been divided into four parts 'a', 'b', 'c' and 'd'. Mark the part which has an error. If there is no error, mark 'e'.

(a) The foreman of 'C' shop (b) is a known hooligan; (c) the workers (d) tremble at his very sight

  1. (a)

  2. (b)

  3. (c)

  4. (d)

  5. (e)


Correct Option: E
Explanation:

The sentence has no error.

Directions: The following sentence has been divided into four parts 'a', 'b', 'c' and 'd'. Mark the part which has an error. If there is no error, mark 'e'.

(a) I remember very well that one
(b) of the first things he used to do (c) after entering the class was to ask the boys to (d) open their text book on some page or the other.

  1. (a)

  2. (b)

  3. (c)

  4. (d)

  5. (e)


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The correct idiomatic expression is “one page or the other”.

Directions: In the following question, a part of the sentence is in bold. Five alternative meanings of the bold part of the sentence are given below the sentence. Mark the correct replacement as your answer.

Maharashtra and Karnataka are at loggerheads on the problem of border issue.

  1. agree

  2. disagree

  3. in dispute

  4. discussions under progress

  5. none of these


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

'Being at loggerheads' means engaged in a dispute or quarrelling. 'Disagree' is not having the same opinion. Option 3 is correct.

Directions: In the following question, a part of the sentence is in bold. Five alternate meanings of the bold part of the sentence are given below the sentence. Mark the correct replacement as your answer.

If you ask him to synthesise, he will do it at the drop of a hat.

  1. Unwillingly

  2. Immediately

  3. Happily

  4. Directly

  5. Straightforward


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

'At the drop of a hat' means instantly or immediately.

Directions: The following sentence has been divided into four parts 'a', 'b', 'c' and 'd'. Mark the part which has an error. If there is no error, mark 'e'.

(a) In case if he drops in, (b) tell him to see me (c) in my office (d) on Monday at 11 o' clock

  1. (a)

  2. (b)

  3. (c)

  4. (d)

  5. (e)


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

If he drops in or in case he drops in: Words conveying the same meaning should not be used together. Both “incase” and “if” refer to condition, so one should be used.

Directions: In the following question, a part of the sentence is in bold. Five alternative meanings of the bold part of the sentence are given below the sentence. Mark the correct replacement as your answer.

Sandhya and Medha are at daggers drawn ever since their children fought with each other.

  1. Friendly

  2. Adverse

  3. Had heated arguments

  4. Very unfriendly

  5. Favourable


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

 'Being at daggers drawn' means in a state of unfriendliness and not trusting each other.

Directions: In the following question, a part of the sentence is in bold. Five alternative meanings of the bold part of the sentence are given below the sentence. Mark the correct replacement as your answer.

The information which you gave regarding the examination date is at variance with what I received from students.

  1. is same

  2. is different from

  3. is similar

  4. is slightly different

  5. none of these


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

 'At variance' means contrasting or different.

Directions: Mark the correct option to fill the blanks.

Students these days are ________, because of which the results have ________ a lot.

  1. honest, lost

  2. idle, flourished

  3. intelligent, suffered

  4. sincere, improved

  5. poor, developed


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

‘Students these days are sincere, because of which the results have improved a lot. The result of sincere work is always an improvement of some kind. Sincere means honest, true. The pairs in the other options are either contradictory or incompatible. 

Directions: In the following question, a part of the sentence is in bold. Five alternative meanings of the bold part of the sentence are given below the sentence. Mark the correct replacement as your answer.

He had made a fortune in business but blew it all away in alcohol, so it was back to square one for him.

  1. situation changed

  2. condition improved

  3. back to the situation at which he started

  4. condition worsened

  5. was pleased


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

'Back to square one' means to be back in a situation from where one started.

Directions: Mark the correct option to fill the blanks.

The few other refugees had to ___________ since Inder alone __________ all the food.

  1. leave, prepared

  2. eat, cooked

  3. wait, spoiled

  4. starve, consumed

  5. cook, wasted


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The few other refugees had to starve since Inder alone consumed all the food. The word ‘since’ introduces the reason why the other refugees had to do something. Only the pair in option (4) makes the two clauses cohesive parts of a single sentence. ‘Consume’ means to eat/drink in great quantity.

Directions: Mark the correct option to fill the blanks.

The Supreme Court ___________ him because he was found ___________ on the basis of the evidence.

  1. acquitted, better

  2. sentenced, innocent

  3. released, innocent

  4. blessed, involved

  5. promoted, guilty


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

One is released or acquitted only when found to be innocent; and sentenced only when found guilty. We find this logic is followed only in option (3). Other options do not meet the test of reasonableness, logic and congruity.

Directions: In the question below is given a statement, followed by several conclusions. You have to assume everything in the statement to be true, and then decide which of the conclusions logically follow(s) the information given in the statement.

Statement: Anything can be bought with money. Conclusions:

(I) Money has the purchasing power. (II) A definite value exists for everything. (III) A barter system is non-existent.

  1. Only (II) and (III) follow

  2. Only (I) and (III) follow

  3. Only (I) follows

  4. Only (I) and (II) follow

  5. Only (II) follows


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Conclusion (I) follows since the action of buying needs the back-up of purchasing power.

Conclusion (II) follows since the price of anything must be in tangible form.

Conclusion (III) does not follow since the barter system may or may not be operational concurrently.

Directions: In the question below is given a statement, followed by several conclusions. You have to assume everything in the statement to be true, and then decide which of the conclusions logically follow(s) the information given in the statement.

Statement: Business is the best option for making money, still people prefer to go for service. Conclusions:

(I) People do not like money. (II) Business carries a risk factor as well. (III) Jobs are available.

  1. Only (I) and (III) follow

  2. Only (II) and (III) follow

  3. Only (II) follows

  4. Only (III) follows

  5. All (l), (II) and (III) follow


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Conclusion (I) does not follow since the likes and dislikes of people cannot be commented on from the question statement. Conclusion (III) follows since unless the jobs are available, opting for them is absurd.

Directions: In the question below, a statement is given, followed by several conclusions. You have to assume everything in the statement to be true and then decide which of the conclusions logically follow(s) the information given in the statement.

Statement: Competitive examinations are conducted by the organisation to select bright candidates.

Conclusions: (I) Organisations need bright candidates. (II) Bright candidates cannot be selected through any other tests. (III) The ratio of the number of applicants to that of vacancies is very high.

  1. Only (l) and (III) follow

  2. Only (III) follows

  3. Only (I) follows

  4. All (I), (II) and (III) follow

  5. Only (II) and (III) follow


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Conclusion (I) follows since the resources spent on conduction and administration of competitive examinations get justified only when the organisation selects bright candidates.

Conclusion (II) does not follow since there may be other ways of selecting bright candidates as well.

Conclusion (III) follows since one of the reasons for conduction of competitive examinations for selection of candidates is the enormous number of candidates desirous of applying for small number of vacancies.

Name the country where the referendum was held on March 10, 2003 on the issue of joining the European Union.

  1. Spain

  2. Holland

  3. Germany

  4. Malta

  5. Norway


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Holland 

Why, according to the author, are the European firms less productive?

  1. Shortage of labour

  2. Poor economic condition

  3. Low average productivity

  4. Labour and product-market regulation

  5. None of these


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Labour and product–market regulation.

The fourth sentence in the first paragraph provides the reason for less productivity in European firms.

Directions: Mark the correct option to fill the blanks.

The lecturer’s ____________ over his subject was seen through his _________ discourse.

  1. oratory, dull

  2. mastery, fluent

  3. grip, boring

  4. skill, long

  5. expertise, unpleasant


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

‘The lecturer’s mastery over his subject was seen through his fluent discourse.’ Among the given pairs of words, the pair in option (2) is the most suitable. You will notice that, though the nouns ‘oratory’ – option (1), ‘grip’ – option (3), ‘skill’ – option (4) and ‘expertise’ – option (5) are all suitable for the first blank in the sentence, the second word in each of these pairs is not suitable to fill the second blank. The second word ‘long’ in option (4) is unsuitable because a long discourse is not necessarily interesting. Note that the first word in all the five options has a positive connotation; all these words refer to the lecturer’s knowledge of his subject; but among the second words, only ‘fluent’ has an equally positive meaning. ‘Fluent’ means effortlessly smooth and rapid.

Low average productivity in the European Union can be attributed to

  1. low GDP per hour

  2. low GDP per head

  3. low productivity in Britain, Spain, Greece and Portugal

  4. low output per hour

  5. none of these


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Low productivity in Britain, Spain, Greece and Portugal The last sentence in the second paragraph states that the average productivity in the European Union is less than that in America because of the combined effect of low productivity in Britain, Spain, Greece and Portugal

Which of the following statements is true?

 

  1. America's GOP per hour worked is more than that of the European Union.

  2. America's productivity growth is more than that of the European Union.

  3. The European Union's GDP per head is more than that of America.

  4. The European Union's standard of living is low as compared to America.

  5. None of these


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

America's GDP per hour worked is more than that in the European Union Based on the given information, option (b) and (c) are incorrect. Nothing definite can be commented about the living standards in the European Union and America. Therefore, option (d) is not correct. The second sentence in the second paragraph clearly states that American GDP per hour worked is more than that in the European Union. Therefore, the answer is (a)

Directions: Find the word which is antonymous to the given word.

Prologue

  1. dialogue

  2. epilogue

  3. preface

  4. introduction

  5. None of these


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The section at the starting of the book is called a prologue and the section at the end of the book is called an epilogue.

The intention of author seems to be __________.

 

  1. to convince people that America is the world economic leader

  2. to show the flaws in the progress made by the European Union

  3. to focus on Europeans’ great leisure time

  4. to study the Economic theory

  5. none of these


Correct Option: E
Explanation:

None of these None of the given options conveys the correct intention of the author. Nowhere is the auther convincing the people about America being economic leader. In fact he is challenging it. Flaws in progress and leisure time are being discussed but they are not the main content of the passage.Therefore, the answer is (e)

Directions: Choose the correct antonym for the given word.

Incoherent

  1. intelligible

  2. disorganized

  3. unequal

  4. detached

  5. none of these


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

 'Incoherent' means unintelligible and incomprehensible. So, its opposite is intelligible.

Directions: Choose the correct antonym for the given word.

Manifestation

  1. revelation

  2. revolution

  3. appearance

  4. concealment

  5. none of these


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

 'Manifestation' means demonstrating or showing. Its opposite is concealing something.

Directions: Choose the correct antonym for the given word.

Imbecility

  1. asinine

  2. foolishness

  3. humility

  4. cleverness

  5. none of these


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

'Imbecility' means foolishness and its opposite is cleverness.

Directions: Choose the correct antonym for the given word.

Conceit

  1. metaphor

  2. pride

  3. vanity

  4. modesty

  5. none of these


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

'Conceit' means excessive pride. Its opposite is modesty.

Directions: Select the pair of words having the same relationship as in the lead pair.

House : Door

  1. Window : Sill

  2. Nose : Nostril

  3. Garden : Boundary

  4. Road : Footpath

  5. None of these


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

One is an outlet of the other.

Directions: Find the odd word out.

  1. Corpse

  2. Skeleton

  3. Cadaver

  4. Carcass

  5. Carrion


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

 Except skeleton, all other options have flesh. Skeleton only contains bones.

Directions: Select the pair of words having the same relationship as in the lead pair.

Soap : Dirt

  1. Umbrella : Rain

  2. Hospital : Patient

  3. Fire-extinguisher : Fire

  4. Broom : Sweeper

  5. None of these


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The relation is that of the item and the reaction on the other item to get rid of.

The disparity in the quantum of machine production in India and that in other countries leads to _______.

Directions: Read the following passage and answer the question given below it:­

Today the import duty on a complete machine is 35% for all practical purpose, whereas the import duty on raw materials and components ranges from 40-85%. The story does not end here. After paying such high import duties on component, once a machine is made, it suffers excise duty from 5% - 10% (including on the customs duty already paid). At the time of sale, the machine tools suffer further taxation, i.e. central sales tax or State sales taxes which range from 4% - 16%. This much for the tax angle. Another factor, which pushes the cost of manufacture of machine tools, is the very high rate of interest payable to banks ranging up to 22%, as against 4%-7% prevailing in advanced countries.
The production of machine tools in India being not of the same scale as it is in other countries, the price which India's machine tool builders have to pay for components is more or less based on pattern of high pricing applicable to the prices of spares. The above represents only a few of the extraneous reasons for the high cost of Indian machines.
The machines tool industry in India has an enviable record of very quick technology absorption, assimilation and development. There are a number of success stories about how machine tool builders were of help at the most critical times. It will be a pity, in fact a tragedy, if we allow this industry to die and disappear from the scene.
It is to be noted that India is at least 6000 km away from any dependable source of supply of machine tools. The Government of India has always given a great deal of importance to the development of small scale and medium scale industries. This industry has also performed pretty well. Today, they are in need of help from India's machine tool industry to enable them to produce quality components at reduced costs. Is it anybody's case that the needs of the fragile sector (which needs tender care) will be met from 6000 km away?
Then, what is it that the industry request from the Government? It wants a level playing field. In fact, all of us must have a deep introspection and recognize the fact that the machine tool industry has a very special place in the country from the point of strategic and vital interest of the nation. Most important, it requests for the Government's consideration and understanding.

  1. the necessity to export the machine from India to other countries

  2. lethargy in the process of absorption and assimilation of new technology

  3. a need to pay higher for component and spares

  4. overproduction of machine as compared to the actual need

  5. none of these


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The line “the price which India's machine tool builders have to pay for components is more or less based on pattern of high pricing…” appropriately displays the idea that disparity shall load to a need to pay higher for components and spares. This is the solution available in option (3). All the other options available do not address to the statement in the question.

According to the passage, assembling imported components into machine proves ultimately ________.

Directions: Read the following passage and answer the question given below it:­

Today the import duty on a complete machine is 35% for all practical purpose, whereas the import duty on raw materials and components ranges from 40-85%. The story does not end here. After paying such high import duties on component, once a machine is made, it suffers excise duty from 5% - 10% (including on the customs duty already paid). At the time of sale, the machine tools suffer further taxation, i.e. central sales tax or State sales taxes which range from 4% - 16%. This much for the tax angle. Another factor, which pushes the cost of manufacture of machine tools, is the very high rate of interest payable to banks ranging up to 22%, as against 4%-7% prevailing in advanced countries.
The production of machine tools in India being not of the same scale as it is in other countries, the price which India's machine tool builders have to pay for components is more or less based on pattern of high pricing applicable to the prices of spares. The above represents only a few of the extraneous reasons for the high cost of Indian machines.
The machines tool industry in India has an enviable record of very quick technology absorption, assimilation and development. There are a number of success stories about how machine tool builders were of help at the most critical times. It will be a pity, in fact a tragedy, if we allow this industry to die and disappear from the scene.
It is to be noted that India is at least 6000 km away from any dependable source of supply of machine tools. The Government of India has always given a great deal of importance to the development of small scale and medium scale industries. This industry has also performed pretty well. Today, they are in need of help from India's machine tool industry to enable them to produce quality components at reduced costs. Is it anybody's case that the needs of the fragile sector (which needs tender care) will be met from 6000 km away?
Then, what is it that the industry request from the Government? It wants a level playing field. In fact, all of us must have a deep introspection and recognize the fact that the machine tool industry has a very special place in the country from the point of strategic and vital interest of the nation. Most important, it requests for the Government's consideration and understanding.

  1. cheaper than importing complete machinery

  2. more cost-effective than importing machine

  3. costlier than importing machine

  4. at par with the cost of imported machine

  5. a very stupendous and unmanageable task


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The first passage gives complete explanation about different kinds of taxes levied on both imported machines and those assembled from imported components. A quick glance of figures gives evidence that choice (3) is correct.

According to the passage, all the following factors are responsible for high cost of Indian machines EXCEPT ________.

Directions: Read the following passage and answer the question given below it:­

Today the import duty on a complete machine is 35% for all practical purpose, whereas the import duty on raw materials and components ranges from 40-85%. The story does not end here. After paying such high import duties on component, once a machine is made, it suffers excise duty from 5% - 10% (including on the customs duty already paid). At the time of sale, the machine tools suffer further taxation, i.e. central sales tax or State sales taxes which range from 4% - 16%. This much for the tax angle. Another factor, which pushes the cost of manufacture of machine tools, is the very high rate of interest payable to banks ranging up to 22%, as against 4%-7% prevailing in advanced countries.
The production of machine tools in India being not of the same scale as it is in other countries, the price which India's machine tool builders have to pay for components is more or less based on pattern of high pricing applicable to the prices of spares. The above represents only a few of the extraneous reasons for the high cost of Indian machines.
The machines tool industry in India has an enviable record of very quick technology absorption, assimilation and development. There are a number of success stories about how machine tool builders were of help at the most critical times. It will be a pity, in fact a tragedy, if we allow this industry to die and disappear from the scene.
It is to be noted that India is at least 6000 km away from any dependable source of supply of machine tools. The Government of India has always given a great deal of importance to the development of small scale and medium scale industries. This industry has also performed pretty well. Today, they are in need of help from India's machine tool industry to enable them to produce quality components at reduced costs. Is it anybody's case that the needs of the fragile sector (which needs tender care) will be met from 6000 km away?
Then, what is it that the industry request from the Government? It wants a level playing field. In fact, all of us must have a deep introspection and recognize the fact that the machine tool industry has a very special place in the country from the point of strategic and vital interest of the nation. Most important, it requests for the Government's consideration and understanding.

  1. higher import duty on spares

  2. excise duty

  3. sales tax

  4. high profit margin expected by manufacturers

  5. none of these


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Options (1), (2) and (3) find mention in the first paragraph of the passage where the author clearly mentions various ways and their impact on the cost of Indian machines. One does not find mention of option (4) 'high profit margin expected by manufactures' in the passage. Therefore, (4) is the correct answer.

Which of the following statements is TRUE in the context of the passage?

Directions: Read the following passage and answer the question given below it:­

Today the import duty on a complete machine is 35% for all practical purpose, whereas the import duty on raw materials and components ranges from 40-85%. The story does not end here. After paying such high import duties on component, once a machine is made, it suffers excise duty from 5% - 10% (including on the customs duty already paid). At the time of sale, the machine tools suffer further taxation, i.e. central sales tax or State sales taxes which range from 4% - 16%. This much for the tax angle. Another factor, which pushes the cost of manufacture of machine tools, is the very high rate of interest payable to banks ranging up to 22%, as against 4%-7% prevailing in advanced countries.
The production of machine tools in India being not of the same scale as it is in other countries, the price which India's machine tool builders have to pay for components is more or less based on pattern of high pricing applicable to the prices of spares. The above represents only a few of the extraneous reasons for the high cost of Indian machines.
The machines tool industry in India has an enviable record of very quick technology absorption, assimilation and development. There are a number of success stories about how machine tool builders were of help at the most critical times. It will be a pity, in fact a tragedy, if we allow this industry to die and disappear from the scene.
It is to be noted that India is at least 6000 km away from any dependable source of supply of machine tools. The Government of India has always given a great deal of importance to the development of small scale and medium scale industries. This industry has also performed pretty well. Today, they are in need of help from India's machine tool industry to enable them to produce quality components at reduced costs. Is it anybody's case that the needs of the fragile sector (which needs tender care) will be met from 6000 km away?
Then, what is it that the industry request from the Government? It wants a level playing field. In fact, all of us must have a deep introspection and recognize the fact that the machine tool industry has a very special place in the country from the point of strategic and vital interest of the nation. Most important, it requests for the Government's consideration and understanding.

  1. India's machine tool industry has a praiseworthy record of performance

  2. In critical times, the machine tool builders allowed the industry to perish

  3. In the case of machines, the excise duty is levied only on the cost price

  4. India's quantum of production of machine tools is more than that of other advanced countries

  5. None of these


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Options (2) and (3) are incorrect because they have no reference available in the passage. Option (4) is incorrect because, except the phrase 'not of the same scale', nothing is available for the reader to infer. Option (1) has support in the phrase 'an enviable record'. Hence, it is the correct answer.

If the banks' rate of interest in India is made at par with that in advanced countries, the cost of manufacturing of machine tools _____________.

Directions: Read the following passage and answer the question given below it:­

Today the import duty on a complete machine is 35% for all practical purpose, whereas the import duty on raw materials and components ranges from 40-85%. The story does not end here. After paying such high import duties on component, once a machine is made, it suffers excise duty from 5% - 10% (including on the customs duty already paid). At the time of sale, the machine tools suffer further taxation, i.e. central sales tax or State sales taxes which range from 4% - 16%. This much for the tax angle. Another factor, which pushes the cost of manufacture of machine tools, is the very high rate of interest payable to banks ranging up to 22%, as against 4%-7% prevailing in advanced countries.
The production of machine tools in India being not of the same scale as it is in other countries, the price which India's machine tool builders have to pay for components is more or less based on pattern of high pricing applicable to the prices of spares. The above represents only a few of the extraneous reasons for the high cost of Indian machines.
The machines tool industry in India has an enviable record of very quick technology absorption, assimilation and development. There are a number of success stories about how machine tool builders were of help at the most critical times. It will be a pity, in fact a tragedy, if we allow this industry to die and disappear from the scene.
It is to be noted that India is at least 6000 km away from any dependable source of supply of machine tools. The Government of India has always given a great deal of importance to the development of small scale and medium scale industries. This industry has also performed pretty well. Today, they are in need of help from India's machine tool industry to enable them to produce quality components at reduced costs. Is it anybody's case that the needs of the fragile sector (which needs tender care) will be met from 6000 km away?
Then, what is it that the industry request from the Government? It wants a level playing field. In fact, all of us must have a deep introspection and recognize the fact that the machine tool industry has a very special place in the country from the point of strategic and vital interest of the nation. Most important, it requests for the Government's consideration and understanding.

  1. may go up by about 4 to 7%

  2. may increase by about 22%

  3. may decrease by about 4 to 7%

  4. may decrease by about 15 to 18%

  5. none of these


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Banks' rate of interest in India = 22%

Banks' rate of interest in advanced countries = 4 - 7%

Difference between the two = 15 - 18% Therefore, decrease in cost of manufacturing tools = 15 - 18%

Which of the following inferences can be drawn from the content of the passage?

Directions: Read the following passage and answer the question given below it:­

Today the import duty on a complete machine is 35% for all practical purpose, whereas the import duty on raw materials and components ranges from 40-85%. The story does not end here. After paying such high import duties on component, once a machine is made, it suffers excise duty from 5% - 10% (including on the customs duty already paid). At the time of sale, the machine tools suffer further taxation, i.e. central sales tax or State sales taxes which range from 4% - 16%. This much for the tax angle. Another factor, which pushes the cost of manufacture of machine tools, is the very high rate of interest payable to banks ranging up to 22%, as against 4%-7% prevailing in advanced countries.
The production of machine tools in India being not of the same scale as it is in other countries, the price which India's machine tool builders have to pay for components is more or less based on pattern of high pricing applicable to the prices of spares. The above represents only a few of the extraneous reasons for the high cost of Indian machines.
The machines tool industry in India has an enviable record of very quick technology absorption, assimilation and development. There are a number of success stories about how machine tool builders were of help at the most critical times. It will be a pity, in fact a tragedy, if we allow this industry to die and disappear from the scene.
It is to be noted that India is at least 6000 km away from any dependable source of supply of machine tools. The Government of India has always given a great deal of importance to the development of small scale and medium scale industries. This industry has also performed pretty well. Today, they are in need of help from India's machine tool industry to enable them to produce quality components at reduced costs. Is it anybody's case that the needs of the fragile sector (which needs tender care) will be met from 6000 km away?
Then, what is it that the industry request from the Government? It wants a level playing field. In fact, all of us must have a deep introspection and recognize the fact that the machine tool industry has a very special place in the country from the point of strategic and vital interest of the nation. Most important, it requests for the Government's consideration and understanding.

  1. Levying heavy custom duty is absolutely necessary.

  2. Banks in other countries are running in loss owing to a low interest rate.

  3. The Government of India was not considerate to the difficulties faced by the machine tool industry.

  4. The Government of India has duly recognized the role of the machine tool industry.

  5. None of these


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The correct answer is option (3) because the passage brings to light the government's apathy towards the machine tool industry and calls upon it to help improve its present state of affairs.

The availability of Indian machine tool industry's help to small-scale industry is most likely to result in _________.

Directions: Read the following passage and answer the question given below it:­

Today the import duty on a complete machine is 35% for all practical purpose, whereas the import duty on raw materials and components ranges from 40-85%. The story does not end here. After paying such high import duties on component, once a machine is made, it suffers excise duty from 5% - 10% (including on the customs duty already paid). At the time of sale, the machine tools suffer further taxation, i.e. central sales tax or State sales taxes which range from 4% - 16%. This much for the tax angle. Another factor, which pushes the cost of manufacture of machine tools, is the very high rate of interest payable to banks ranging up to 22%, as against 4%-7% prevailing in advanced countries.
The production of machine tools in India being not of the same scale as it is in other countries, the price which India's machine tool builders have to pay for components is more or less based on pattern of high pricing applicable to the prices of spares. The above represents only a few of the extraneous reasons for the high cost of Indian machines.
The machines tool industry in India has an enviable record of very quick technology absorption, assimilation and development. There are a number of success stories about how machine tool builders were of help at the most critical times. It will be a pity, in fact a tragedy, if we allow this industry to die and disappear from the scene.
It is to be noted that India is at least 6000 km away from any dependable source of supply of machine tools. The Government of India has always given a great deal of importance to the development of small scale and medium scale industries. This industry has also performed pretty well. Today, they are in need of help from India's machine tool industry to enable them to produce quality components at reduced costs. Is it anybody's case that the needs of the fragile sector (which needs tender care) will be met from 6000 km away?
Then, what is it that the industry request from the Government? It wants a level playing field. In fact, all of us must have a deep introspection and recognize the fact that the machine tool industry has a very special place in the country from the point of strategic and vital interest of the nation. Most important, it requests for the Government's consideration and understanding.

  1. deterioration in the quality of components manufactured by them

  2. severe competition among the small and medium scale industries

  3. further increase in the customs duty on imported machines

  4. enhancement in the quality and quantity of their production at a cheaper cost

  5. none of these


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The line ''Today, they are in need of help from India's machine tool industry to enable them to produce quality components at reduced costs” available in 4th paragraph of passage suggests option 4 as the correct answer.

Why do small and medium scale industries look for help from India's machine tool industry?

Directions: Read the following passage and answer the question given below it:­

Today the import duty on a complete machine is 35% for all practical purpose, whereas the import duty on raw materials and components ranges from 40-85%. The story does not end here. After paying such high import duties on component, once a machine is made, it suffers excise duty from 5% - 10% (including on the customs duty already paid). At the time of sale, the machine tools suffer further taxation, i.e. central sales tax or State sales taxes which range from 4% - 16%. This much for the tax angle. Another factor, which pushes the cost of manufacture of machine tools, is the very high rate of interest payable to banks ranging up to 22%, as against 4%-7% prevailing in advanced countries.
The production of machine tools in India being not of the same scale as it is in other countries, the price which India's machine tool builders have to pay for components is more or less based on pattern of high pricing applicable to the prices of spares. The above represents only a few of the extraneous reasons for the high cost of Indian machines.
The machines tool industry in India has an enviable record of very quick technology absorption, assimilation and development. There are a number of success stories about how machine tool builders were of help at the most critical times. It will be a pity, in fact a tragedy, if we allow this industry to die and disappear from the scene.
It is to be noted that India is at least 6000 km away from any dependable source of supply of machine tools. The Government of India has always given a great deal of importance to the development of small scale and medium scale industries. This industry has also performed pretty well. Today, they are in need of help from India's machine tool industry to enable them to produce quality components at reduced costs. Is it anybody's case that the needs of the fragile sector (which needs tender care) will be met from 6000 km away?
Then, what is it that the industry request from the Government? It wants a level playing field. In fact, all of us must have a deep introspection and recognize the fact that the machine tool industry has a very special place in the country from the point of strategic and vital interest of the nation. Most important, it requests for the Government's consideration and understanding.

  1. To produce low cost components without dilution in quality

  2. To produce cheaper components notwithstanding the poor quality

  3. To remain in the Government's focus of attention

  4. To improve their poor financial status

  5. None of these


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The answer to this question is evidenced from the lines of the fourth paragraph - “Today, they are in need of help from India's machine tool industry to enable them to produce quality components at reduced costs”. The view expressed above is paraphrased in option (1).

Which of the following best explains the sentence ''It wants a level playing field'' as used in the passage?

The machine tool industry in India __________.

Directions: Read the following passage and answer the question given below it:­

Today the import duty on a complete machine is 35% for all practical purpose, whereas the import duty on raw materials and components ranges from 40-85%. The story does not end here. After paying such high import duties on component, once a machine is made, it suffers excise duty from 5% - 10% (including on the customs duty already paid). At the time of sale, the machine tools suffer further taxation, i.e. central sales tax or State sales taxes which range from 4% - 16%. This much for the tax angle. Another factor, which pushes the cost of manufacture of machine tools, is the very high rate of interest payable to banks ranging up to 22%, as against 4%-7% prevailing in advanced countries.
The production of machine tools in India being not of the same scale as it is in other countries, the price which India's machine tool builders have to pay for components is more or less based on pattern of high pricing applicable to the prices of spares. The above represents only a few of the extraneous reasons for the high cost of Indian machines.
The machines tool industry in India has an enviable record of very quick technology absorption, assimilation and development. There are a number of success stories about how machine tool builders were of help at the most critical times. It will be a pity, in fact a tragedy, if we allow this industry to die and disappear from the scene.
It is to be noted that India is at least 6000 km away from any dependable source of supply of machine tools. The Government of India has always given a great deal of importance to the development of small scale and medium scale industries. This industry has also performed pretty well. Today, they are in need of help from India's machine tool industry to enable them to produce quality components at reduced costs. Is it anybody's case that the needs of the fragile sector (which needs tender care) will be met from 6000 km away?
Then, what is it that the industry request from the Government? It wants a level playing field. In fact, all of us must have a deep introspection and recognize the fact that the machine tool industry has a very special place in the country from the point of strategic and vital interest of the nation. Most important, it requests for the Government's consideration and understanding.

  1. needs land for opening more factories

  2. needs freedom to import the desired components at a low cost

  3. seeks to have the small-scale industry as its patron

  4. wants to adopt novel marketing strategies for scale promotion

  5. none of these


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

One can neither find any mention in the passage that more land is required nor its need to adopt note marketing strategy, which rules out options (1) and (4). Option (3) can easily be neglected as in the 4th paragraph of the passage. One can find it is the other way around, i.e. small-scale industries need machine tool industry's help. Option (2) has found its mention in the first paragraph of the passage. The author compares the two import duties on the complete machine and various tariffs on import of components. Thus, by specifying the difference in two, the author prepares the case to advocate level playing field for machine tool industry.

Which of the following groups of statements is definitely TRUE in the context of the passage?

Statement (I) The vital role of India's machine tool industry has not been duly recognized by the Government. Statement (II) Small-scale industry's performance can be further improved with the help from the Indian machine tool industry. Statement (III) The author of the passage has not discussed all the factors which are responsible for high cost of Indian machines.

Directions: Read the following passage and answer the question given below it:­

Today the import duty on a complete machine is 35% for all practical purpose, whereas the import duty on raw materials and components ranges from 40-85%. The story does not end here. After paying such high import duties on component, once a machine is made, it suffers excise duty from 5% - 10% (including on the customs duty already paid). At the time of sale, the machine tools suffer further taxation, i.e. central sales tax or State sales taxes which range from 4% - 16%. This much for the tax angle. Another factor, which pushes the cost of manufacture of machine tools, is the very high rate of interest payable to banks ranging up to 22%, as against 4%-7% prevailing in advanced countries.
The production of machine tools in India being not of the same scale as it is in other countries, the price which India's machine tool builders have to pay for components is more or less based on pattern of high pricing applicable to the prices of spares. The above represents only a few of the extraneous reasons for the high cost of Indian machines.
The machines tool industry in India has an enviable record of very quick technology absorption, assimilation and development. There are a number of success stories about how machine tool builders were of help at the most critical times. It will be a pity, in fact a tragedy, if we allow this industry to die and disappear from the scene.
It is to be noted that India is at least 6000 km away from any dependable source of supply of machine tools. The Government of India has always given a great deal of importance to the development of small scale and medium scale industries. This industry has also performed pretty well. Today, they are in need of help from India's machine tool industry to enable them to produce quality components at reduced costs. Is it anybody's case that the needs of the fragile sector (which needs tender care) will be met from 6000 km away?
Then, what is it that the industry request from the Government? It wants a level playing field. In fact, all of us must have a deep introspection and recognize the fact that the machine tool industry has a very special place in the country from the point of strategic and vital interest of the nation. Most important, it requests for the Government's consideration and understanding.

  1. Only (I) and (II) are true

  2. Only (I) and (III)

  3. Only (II) and (III) are true

  4. All the statements are true

  5. None of these


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Statement (I) is justified from the last paragraph of the passage where the author writes, “In fact, all of us must have a deep introspection and recognize the fact…” Statement (II) is justified from the 4th paragraph of passage which says "Need of help from India's machine tool industry to enable them to produce quality components at reduce costs…" One can find justification for statement (III) in the last line of second paragraph, i.e. “The above represents only a few of extraneous reasons…” Thus, it is clear that option (4) is the correct answer.

Fill blank (iv).

Directions: Study the following passage with some numbered blanks and answer the question that follows.

The Earth constricts. We imagine ourselves to be ____(i)____ in solitary confinement, ___(ii)____ crude coded messages on the ___(iii)____ wall and hoping for an answering tap - without which we stare at the ___(iv)____ possibility that we are truly, absolutely ___(v)____. Such an abyss may be infinitely more ___(vi)____ than the assumption of human inferiority, or may argue, conversely, for the divine ____(vii)____ and therefore preciousness of the human enterprise. The ____(viii)____ with extraterrestrial phenomena may reflect an ___(ix)____ of secrets and ___(x)___ of Earth and of earthy behaviour.

  1. improbable

  2. delightful

  3. conclusive

  4. queasy

  5. obvious


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Queasy means making uneasy or uncomfortable. As we feel ourselves to be in a solitary confinement, it makes us queasy.

Fill blank (v).

Directions: Study the following passage with some numbered blanks and answer the question that follows.

The Earth constricts. We imagine ourselves to be ____(i)____ in solitary confinement, ___(ii)____ crude coded messages on the ___(iii)____ wall and hoping for an answering tap - without which we stare at the ___(iv)____ possibility that we are truly, absolutely ___(v)____. Such an abyss may be infinitely more ___(vi)____ than the assumption of human inferiority, or may argue, conversely, for the divine ____(vii)____ and therefore preciousness of the human enterprise. The ____(viii)____ with extraterrestrial phenomena may reflect an ___(ix)____ of secrets and ___(x)___ of Earth and of earthy behaviour.

  1. homeless

  2. free

  3. distant

  4. alone

  5. hopeless


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Solitary confinement refers to our being alone.

Fill blank (x).

Directions: Study the following passage with some numbered blanks and answer the question that follows.

The Earth constricts. We imagine ourselves to be ____(i)____ in solitary confinement, ___(ii)____ crude coded messages on the ___(iii)____ wall and hoping for an answering tap - without which we stare at the ___(iv)____ possibility that we are truly, absolutely ___(v)____. Such an abyss may be infinitely more ___(vi)____ than the assumption of human inferiority, or may argue, conversely, for the divine ____(vii)____ and therefore preciousness of the human enterprise. The ____(viii)____ with extraterrestrial phenomena may reflect an ___(ix)____ of secrets and ___(x)___ of Earth and of earthy behaviour.

  1. traditions

  2. patterns

  3. wars

  4. novelties

  5. priorities


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Novelties refer to newness. As we encounter something new, newness in approach is bound.

Fill blank (ii).

Directions: Study the following passage with some numbered blanks and answer the question that follows.

The Earth constricts. We imagine ourselves to be ____(i)____ in solitary confinement, ___(ii)____ crude coded messages on the ___(iii)____ wall and hoping for an answering tap - without which we stare at the ___(iv)____ possibility that we are truly, absolutely ___(v)____. Such an abyss may be infinitely more ___(vi)____ than the assumption of human inferiority, or may argue, conversely, for the divine ____(vii)____ and therefore preciousness of the human enterprise. The ____(viii)____ with extraterrestrial phenomena may reflect an ___(ix)____ of secrets and ___(x)___ of Earth and of earthy behaviour.

  1. passing

  2. drawing

  3. carving

  4. tapping

  5. feeling


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

"And hoping for an answering tap" suggests the answer.

Fill blank (vi).

Directions: Study the following passage with some numbered blanks and answer the question that follows.

The Earth constricts. We imagine ourselves to be ____(i)____ in solitary confinement, ___(ii)____ crude coded messages on the ___(iii)____ wall and hoping for an answering tap - without which we stare at the ___(iv)____ possibility that we are truly, absolutely ___(v)____. Such an abyss may be infinitely more ___(vi)____ than the assumption of human inferiority, or may argue, conversely, for the divine ____(vii)____ and therefore preciousness of the human enterprise. The ____(viii)____ with extraterrestrial phenomena may reflect an ___(ix)____ of secrets and ___(x)___ of Earth and of earthy behaviour.

  1. heartening

  2. deep

  3. depressing

  4. acceptable

  5. fathomable


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

An abyss is a deep, immeasurable space, gulf or cavity. The assumption related to an abyss would be of its deepness or unfathomableness.

Fill blank (viii).

Directions: Study the following passage with some numbered blanks and answer the question that follows.

The Earth constricts. We imagine ourselves to be ____(i)____ in solitary confinement, ___(ii)____ crude coded messages on the ___(iii)____ wall and hoping for an answering tap - without which we stare at the ___(iv)____ possibility that we are truly, absolutely ___(v)____. Such an abyss may be infinitely more ___(vi)____ than the assumption of human inferiority, or may argue, conversely, for the divine ____(vii)____ and therefore preciousness of the human enterprise. The ____(viii)____ with extraterrestrial phenomena may reflect an ___(ix)____ of secrets and ___(x)___ of Earth and of earthy behaviour.

  1. fascination

  2. confrontation

  3. conflict

  4. loathing

  5. proposal


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Confrontation refers to meeting.

Fill blank (ix).

Directions: Study the following passage with some numbered blanks and answer the question that follows.

The Earth constricts. We imagine ourselves to be ____(i)____ in solitary confinement, ___(ii)____ crude coded messages on the ___(iii)____ wall and hoping for an answering tap - without which we stare at the ___(iv)____ possibility that we are truly, absolutely ___(v)____. Such an abyss may be infinitely more ___(vi)____ than the assumption of human inferiority, or may argue, conversely, for the divine ____(vii)____ and therefore preciousness of the human enterprise. The ____(viii)____ with extraterrestrial phenomena may reflect an ___(ix)____ of secrets and ___(x)___ of Earth and of earthy behaviour.

  1. abundance

  2. irrelevance

  3. exhaustion

  4. assembly

  5. enigma


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

Exhaustion refers to revelation here.

Fill blank (vii).

Directions: Study the following passage with some numbered blanks and answer the question that follows.

The Earth constricts. We imagine ourselves to be ____(i)____ in solitary confinement, ___(ii)____ crude coded messages on the ___(iii)____ wall and hoping for an answering tap - without which we stare at the ___(iv)____ possibility that we are truly, absolutely ___(v)____. Such an abyss may be infinitely more ___(vi)____ than the assumption of human inferiority, or may argue, conversely, for the divine ____(vii)____ and therefore preciousness of the human enterprise. The ____(viii)____ with extraterrestrial phenomena may reflect an ___(ix)____ of secrets and ___(x)___ of Earth and of earthy behaviour.

  1. powers

  2. uniqueness

  3. gift

  4. idiocy

  5. inquisitiveness


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

If we live a sole intelligent life, it makes us unique. It can be argued to rule out any other possibility.

Fill blank (i).

Directions: Study the following passage with some numbered blanks and answer the question that follows.

The Earth constricts. We imagine ourselves to be ____(i)____ in solitary confinement, ___(ii)____ crude coded messages on the ___(iii)____ wall and hoping for an answering tap - without which we stare at the ___(iv)____ possibility that we are truly, absolutely ___(v)____. Such an abyss may be infinitely more ___(vi)____ than the assumption of human inferiority, or may argue, conversely, for the divine ____(vii)____ and therefore preciousness of the human enterprise. The ____(viii)____ with extraterrestrial phenomena may reflect an ___(ix)____ of secrets and ___(x)___ of Earth and of earthy behaviour.

  1. destined

  2. prisoners

  3. subjugated

  4. loners

  5. luckiest


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

Solitary confinement refers to prison and being in prison makes one a prisoner.

Fill blank (iii).

Directions: Study the following passage with some numbered blanks and answer the question that follows.

The Earth constricts. We imagine ourselves to be ____(i)____ in solitary confinement, ___(ii)____ crude coded messages on the ___(iii)____ wall and hoping for an answering tap - without which we stare at the ___(iv)____ possibility that we are truly, absolutely ___(v)____. Such an abyss may be infinitely more ___(vi)____ than the assumption of human inferiority, or may argue, conversely, for the divine ____(vii)____ and therefore preciousness of the human enterprise. The ____(viii)____ with extraterrestrial phenomena may reflect an ___(ix)____ of secrets and ___(x)___ of Earth and of earthy behaviour.

  1. dungeon

  2. universe

  3. open

  4. infinite

  5. responsive


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

A dungeon is a strong, dark prison or cell, usually underground, as in a medieval castle. The prison is referred to in the beginning of the passage. Moreover, there is no wall to be tapped upon in the other options.

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