Wednesday, May 28, 2025

School Service Commission (SSC) Group C 2017 Question Answers

Visit https://englishforexaminations.blogspot.com/ for more info.

General English

All questions are compulsory.

Visit https://englishforexaminations.blogspot.com/ for more info.

1. One or two stars were still ________ in the sky.
(A) burning
(B) turning
(C) twinkling (Ans)
(D) tinkling

  • Stars "twinkle" in the sky, meaning they shine with small, flickering points of light.
    • burning – used for fire, not the appearance of stars.
    • tinkling – describes a light ringing sound.


    2. The boys who wanted to play football were disappointed when it rained.
    This sentence is a:
    (A) Complex sentence (Ans)
    (B) Compound sentence
    (C) Simple sentence
    (D) Mixed sentence

    • The sentence includes:
      • Main clause: The boys were disappointed.
      • Subordinate clause: who wanted to play football.
    • A sentence with one independent and one dependent clause is a complex sentence.

    Visit https://englishforexaminations.blogspot.com/ for more info.


    3. I will try    to be on time    but do not worry    when I am late.
               (a)                  (b)                           (c)                            (d)
    Which part of the sentence has an error?
    (A) a
    (B) b
    (C) c
    (D) (Ans)

    •  "when I am late" should be "if I am late", because the situation is hypothetical.
    • Corrected: "...but do not worry if I am late."


    4. "Or is it some humble lay / Familiar matter of today?"

    In these lines, the word ‘humble’ means:
    (A) Weak
    (B) Cowardly
    (C) Insignificant (Ans)
    (D) Meek

    Humble means modest or insignificant in tone or subject.

    Visit https://englishforexaminations.blogspot.com/ for more info.


    5. Pick out the correct sentence:
    (A) To be intelligent is more essential than being hard-working.
    (B) Being intelligent is more important than to be hard-working.
    (C) For one to be intelligent is more important than being hard-working.
    (D) Being intelligent is more essential than being hard-working. (Ans)

    Option (D) maintains parallel structure: Being intelligent and  being hard-working.


    6. Another baffling change    that I notice in him    nowadays is that he    

                            (a)                                      (b)                                   (c)

    avoids to speak to me.

                     (d)


    Which part of the sentence contains an error?
    (A) a
    (B) b
    (C) c
    (D) (Ans)


    • After avoid, the verb should be in the gerund form (-ing), not the infinitive.
    • Correct version: "...he avoids speaking to me."

    Visit https://englishforexaminations.blogspot.com/ for more info.


    7. Write an abstract of this essay.
    The underlined word ‘abstract’ means:
    (A) Summary (Ans)
    (B) Title
    (C) Plan
    (D) Conclusion

    Abstract means a brief summary of a larger text or essay.


    8. “Would you mind moving the car?”
    This sentence is a:
    (A) Query
    (B) Polite request (Ans)
    (C) An advice
    (D) A suggestion

    The phrase "Would you mind..." is a courteous and polite way to make a request.


    9. I cannot understand what is written here.
    Choose the correct phrasal verb to replace ‘understand’:
    (A) Hold on
    (B) Give out
    (C) Make out (Ans)
    (D) Give away

    Make out means to understand or decipher something that is unclear, such as messy handwriting.

    • Hold on means to wait.
    • Give out means to distribute.
    • Give away means to reveal something freely or unintentionally.

    Visit https://englishforexaminations.blogspot.com/ for more info.


    10. Rahim’s doctor advised him to _______ as a cure for his sore throat.
    (A) Babble
    (B) Gargle (Ans)
    (C) Giggle
    (D) Gurgle

    Gargle refers to rinsing the throat with a liquid, often used as a remedy for sore throats.

    • Babble means to talk incoherently.
    • Giggle is a light, silly laugh.
    • Gurgle describes a bubbling sound made by water or a baby.


    11. Pick out the correct sentence:
    (A) Bhupen do not know the way.
    (B) Bhupen do not knows the way.
    (C) Bhupen did not knows the way.
    (D) Bhupen does not know the way. (Ans)

    The sentence requires correct subject-verb agreement. Since Bhupen is singular, the verb must be does, not do.


    12. What is the time _______ your watch?
    (A) In
    (B) By (Ans)
    (C) On
    (D) At

    The expression "by your watch" means according to the time shown on your watch.


    13. A group of elephants is called a:
    (A) Collection
    (B) Herd (Ans)
    (C) School
    (D) Litter

    Herd is the correct collective noun for elephants.

    • School is used for fish.
    • Litter refers to a group of young animals like puppies or kittens.

    Visit https://englishforexaminations.blogspot.com/ for more info.


    14. “I regret to inform you that .......”
    This sentence would typically begin a letter conveying:
    (A) Sad news (Ans)
    (B) A denial
    (C) An acceptance
    (D) An emergency

    The phrase "I regret to inform you..." is commonly used when delivering unpleasant or sad news.


    15. Pick the antonym of the word ‘trivial’:
    (A) Important (Ans)
    (B) Insignificant
    (C) Futile
    (D) Fast

    The word trivial means unimportant or insignificant. Its opposite is important.


    Visit https://englishforexaminations.blogspot.com/ for more info.


    Phrasal Verbs Simplified

    https://englishforexaminations.blogspot.com/

    1. The old man passed away (die) last night.
    2. He came into (inherit) some money after his uncle died.
    3. The dog suddenly came at (attack) me.
    4. Let me run over (describe briefly) the plan quickly.
    5. How did the accident come about (happen)?
    6. The dog might go for (attack) you if you get too close.
    7. The child acted up (cause trouble) during class.
    8. The kids began to play up (misbehave) when the teacher left.
    9. Please turn down (lower the setting of) the TV.
    10. Could you speak up (talk more loudly), please?
    11. Did the wedding really come off (take place)?
    12. I picked up on (notice) his sadness.
    13. That medicine will act on (affect) your stomach.
    14. The smoke set off  (start) the fire alarm. / She set off  (start) on her journey at dawn.           https://englishforexaminations.blogspot.com/
    15. Please don’t bring up (mention) that topic again.
    16. Don’t mess around (play) with those wires.
    17. B comes before (precede) C in the alphabet.
    18. Please give me back (return) my pen.
    19. Hang on (wait a moment), I’m almost ready.
    20. He let out (disclose) the secret by mistake.
    21. She has her day cut out (arrange) already.
    22. She can bring forth (create) new ideas easily.
    23. Try to keep away from (avoid) that angry dog.
    24. He came up (appear) in court last week.
    25. She checked out (investigate) the story online.
    26. He passed up (refuse) the job offer.
    27. She pulls in (earn) a good salary.    
    28. He turned down (refuse) the invitation.
    29. He went off (leave) without saying goodbye.
    30. That action goes against (violate) the school rules.  https://englishforexaminations.blogspot.com/
    1. Don’t come after (follow) me!
    2. We set off (travel) on foot to explore the village.
    3. Please go on (proceed) with your story.
    4. Hold up (wait) a second, I’m coming!
    5. She’s getting on with (handle) her homework now.
    6. They can’t hold out (survive) much longer without food.
    7. That phone set me back (cost money) $500.
    8. Many people turned out (attend) for the concert.
    9. A strange feeling came over (affect) me.
    10. Let’s look around (search) the room for your toy.
    11. I can’t just stand by (do nothing) and watch this happen.
    12. I backed up (undo) the car and parked again.
    13. What are you getting at (mean)? I don’t understand.
    14. He’ll be along (arrive) in a few minutes.
    15. She broke into (open) the box to get her gift.
    16. I feel down (depressed) today.
    17. Good teamwork brought about (achieve) success.
    18. He came back (return) from school early.
    19. The movers carried off (transport away) the old furniture.
    20. I won’t let you down (disappoint), I promise.
    21. She’s down with (be ill) a bad cold.
    22. Let’s pass over (ignore) that part for now.
    23. He brought up (vomit) his lunch after eating too fast.
    24. I will answer for (guarantee) his behaviour.
    25. The teacher passed out (distribute) the worksheets.
    26. He held down (continue) that job for years.
    27. I’m looking at (consider) buying a new phone.
    28. She put in (contribute) a lot of effort.
    29. I’m fed up with (be frustrated) all this noise.
    30. You can get at (contact) me by phone.
    31. Can I come along (accompany) with you?
    32. A new problem came up (happen) this morning.
    33. I'll pass on (decline/refuse) the cake, thanks.
    34. I ran into (meet unexpectedly) my teacher at the shop.
    35. They set up (arrange) a tent in the garden.
    36. She turned down (reject) the free ticket.
    37. We came up with (create) a fun game to play.
    38. He shows off (display proudly) his drawing at school.
    39. Let's wrap up (finish) the homework now.
    40. She broke down (stop functioning) and cried.
    41. We should look into (investigate) that strange noise.
    42. He made up (invent) a funny story.
    43. They called off (cancel) the picnic because of rain.
    44. I need to catch up on (get current) my reading.
    45. She takes after (resemble) her mum.
    46. We ran out of (have none left) bread this morning.
    47. He put off (postpone) his trip to next week.
    48. They're bringing in (introduce) new school rules.
    49. I can't put up with (tolerate) this loud music.
    50. She went through (experience) a hard day.
    51. We must cut down on (reduce) sugar.
    52. He came across (find by chance) a lost coin.
    53. The car broke down (stop working) near the market.
    54. She gave up (quit) watching too much TV.
    55. We need to figure out (solve) the answer.
    56. He ended up (finally do) staying home.
    57. They handed out (distribute) pencils to the class.
    58. I'll drop by (visit briefly) your house later.
    59. She pointed out (mention) my spelling mistake.
    60. We ran over (exceed) our time limit.
    61. He took over (assume control) the shop after his dad.
    62. They worked out (resolve) the problem by talking.
    63. She looked after (take care of) her little brother while their parents were out.
    64. He checked in (register) at the hotel at noon.
    65. We gave up (stop trying) after many failed attempts.
    66. I ran out of (have no more) paper while printing.
    67. They put out (extinguish) the fire quickly.
    68. I woke up (stop sleeping) at 6 a.m. today.
    69. She picked up (learn) Spanish very quickly.
    70. He got over (recover from) the flu in a few days.
    71. Please take off (remove) your shoes before entering.
    72. We set off (start) early in the morning for the trip.
    73. The dog ran away (escape) from the garden.
    74. I called back (return a phone call) as soon as I saw the missed call.
    75. He turned off (stop the flow of) the tap after washing his hands.
    76. She got in (enter) the car and closed the door.
    77. They gave away (donate for free) all their old clothes.
    78. He put on (wear) his jacket before going out.
    79. The baby grew up (become an adult) in a small village.
    80. I looked up (search for information) the word in the dictionary.
    81. She brought up (raise) her two children on her own.
    82. I got through (finish) my homework before lunch.
    83. The truck backed up (move backwards) slowly.
    84. The boy ran after (chase) the ball into the street.
    85. The train just came in (arrive) at the station.
    86. His plan fell down (fail) at the last moment.
    87. The baby threw up (vomit) on the sofa.
    88. The factory turns out (produce) hundreds of toys every day.
    89. The firecracker went off (explode) suddenly.
    90. These boxes take up (occupy) too much space.
    91. The chair came apart (break) when I sat on it.
    92. He tried to hold back (stop) his tears.
    93. The factory puts out (produce) fresh bread every morning.
    94. The teacher called for (request) silence.
    95. The police ran in (arrest) the thief last night.
    96. They want to bring down (reduce) the price of petrol.
    97. The robber made off (escape) before police came.
    98. The party passed off (happen) without problems.
    99. Exercise makes for (contribute) better health.
    100. The baby is coming along (develop) well.
    101. My passport will run out (expire) next month.
    102. The rain hasn’t let up (stop) all day.
    103. They kicked up (increase) the rent again.
    104. We had to put off (delay) the picnic.
    105. Our team came through (succeed) in the end.
    106. He threw away (waste) his chance to win.
    107. The bus got away (depart) before I arrived.
    108. They knocked out (complete) all the work by noon.
    109. Someone made away with (steal) my phone.
    110. The boys set about (attack) him without warning.
    111. She set about (begin) cleaning the room.


    Sunday, May 25, 2025

    Some Famous Personalities on Lucy Poems

    Some Famous Personalities on Lucy Poems

    • Timas Powell was the first to refer to the group as the Lucy Poems.
    • John Stoddart called Strange fits and She dwelt “singular specimens” of Wordsworth’s poetry and praised their “unpretending yet irresistible pathos.”
    • Dorothy Wordsworth admired Strange fits, calling it her personal favourite.
    • Charles Lamb praised She dwelt for its touching simplicity.
    • John Keats admired the quiet, tender spirit captured in Lucy’s portrayal.
    • Francis Jeffrey criticised Strange fits for its abrupt and simple style.
    • William Angus Knight described She dwelt as “an incomparable twelve lines.”
    • David Rannie noted the poems’ “sublime simplicity” in conveying love and loss.
    • Geoffrey Hartman viewed Lucy as the “purest spirit of place,” symbolising England.
    • Meena Alexander called Lucy the “impossible object of desire” and a passive ideal.
    • Hunter Davies said the Lucy Poems are “best-known but not most important.”
    • Hartley Coleridge parodied the poems, reflecting their ambiguous meaning.
    • Samuel Butler mocked the poems’ sentimental tone and unclear message.
    • Harold Bloom felt the poems blend death and desire into lyrical elegy.
    • Helen Vendler praised the poems’ stripped-down, raw language of grief.
    • F.R. Leavis saw them as a model of emotional depth in few words.


    50 important idioms


    1. A blessing in disguise – Something that seems bad or unlucky at first, but results in something good. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    Losing that job was a blessing in disguise — it led me to a better opportunity.

    2. A piece of cake – Something that is very easy to do. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    The maths test was a piece of cake — I finished it in 15 minutes.

    3. Beat around the bush – To avoid talking about what is important. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    Stop beating around the bush and tell me the real reason you're upset.

    4. Better late than never – It is better to do something late than not do it at all. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    She submitted the form a day late, but better late than never.

    5. Bite the bullet – To force yourself to do something difficult or unpleasant. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    I decided to bite the bullet and tell him the truth.

    6. Break the ice – To say or do something to make people feel more relaxed, especially at the beginning of a meeting or party. (Longman Dictionary)
    He told a funny story to break the ice at the party.

    7. Burn the midnight oil – To work or study until late at night. (Collins Dictionary)
    She burned the midnight oil to finish her project before the deadline.

    8. By the book – Strictly according to the rules or official procedures. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    The police officer handled the case by the book.

    9. Call it a day – To stop doing something, especially working, for the rest of the day. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    We’ve done enough for now — let’s call it a day.

    10. Cut corners – To do something in the easiest or cheapest way, often sacrificing quality. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    The builders cut corners, and now the roof is leaking.

    11. Cut to the chase – To get to the point without wasting time. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    Let’s cut to the chase — what exactly do you want from me?

    12. Don’t cry over spilled milk – There’s no point in being upset over something that has already happened. (Collins Dictionary)
    The vase is broken, but don’t cry over spilled milk — we can’t fix it now.

    13. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket – Don’t risk everything on one plan. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    You should apply to more than one college — don’t put all your eggs in one basket.

    14. Face the music – To accept criticism or punishment for something you’ve done. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    He lied about the mistake and had to face the music when the truth came out.

    15. Feel under the weather – To feel slightly ill. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    I’m feeling under the weather today, so I’ll stay home and rest.

    16. Get a taste of your own medicine – To experience the same unpleasant treatment that you have given to others. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    She used to interrupt everyone, but now she’s getting a taste of her own medicine.

    17. Get cold feet – To suddenly feel nervous about something you planned to do. (Longman Dictionary)
    He got cold feet just before the wedding and cancelled everything.

    18. Get out of hand – To become difficult to control. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    The situation got out of hand when people started shouting.

    19. Give the benefit of the doubt – To choose to believe someone even if you are not sure they are telling the truth. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    I didn’t see what happened, so I’ll give her the benefit of the doubt.

    20. Go the extra mile – To do more than what is expected. (Longman Dictionary)
    Our teacher goes the extra mile to help us succeed.

    21. Hit the nail on the head – To describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    You hit the nail on the head — lack of sleep is why I feel so tired.

    22. In hot water – In trouble or in a difficult situation. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    He was in hot water after forgetting his boss’s instructions.

    23. It takes two to tango – Both people involved in a bad situation are responsible. (Collins Dictionary)
    Don’t blame only her — it takes two to tango.

    24. Kill two birds with one stone – To achieve two things at the same time with a single action. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    By walking to the shop, I killed two birds with one stone — exercise and groceries.

    25. Let the cat out of the bag – To reveal a secret by accident. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    He let the cat out of the bag about her surprise party.

    26. Miss the boat – To miss an opportunity. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    I waited too long to apply and missed the boat.

    27. On the ball – Quick to understand and react to things. (Longman Dictionary)
    She’s really on the ball — she noticed the mistake immediately.

    28. Once in a blue moon – Very rarely. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    We go out for dinner once in a blue moon.

    29. Pull someone’s leg – To joke with someone by telling them something that isn’t true. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    Relax, I’m just pulling your leg — of course we’re not moving.

    30. Put all your eggs in one basket – To depend completely on one plan, idea, or investment. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    He put all his eggs in one basket by investing only in one company.

    31. Put the cart before the horse – To do things in the wrong order. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    Planning the decorations before choosing a venue is putting the cart before the horse.

    32. Read between the lines – To understand a hidden or unspoken meaning. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    He didn’t say it directly, but reading between the lines, I knew he was upset.

    33. Rock the boat – To do or say something that causes problems or disturbs a stable situation. (Longman Dictionary)
    Let’s not rock the boat by changing the plan now.

    34. See eye to eye – To agree with someone. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    We don’t see eye to eye on politics, but we’re still friends.

    35. Sit on the fence – To delay making a decision or expressing an opinion. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    He’s sitting on the fence and won’t say if he supports the new rule.

    36. Speak of the devil – Said when someone you’ve just been talking about appears. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    Speak of the devil — we were just talking about you!

    37. Spill the beans – To reveal a secret. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    Don’t spill the beans about the surprise party.

    38. Take it with a grain of salt – To not take something too seriously. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    He tends to exaggerate, so take his stories with a grain of salt.

    39. The ball is in your court – It’s your turn to take action or make a decision. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    I’ve done all I can — now the ball is in your court.

    40. The best of both worlds – A situation where you enjoy the advantages of two different things. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    Working from home gives me the best of both worlds — flexibility and comfort.

    41. Through thick and thin – In both good and bad times. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    She stood by me through thick and thin.

    42. Throw in the towel – To give up or admit defeat. (Collins Dictionary)
    After trying for years, he finally threw in the towel and quit the project.

    43. Time flies – Time passes very quickly. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    I can’t believe it’s already June — time flies!

    44. Turn a blind eye – To ignore something wrong or bad on purpose. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    The manager turned a blind eye to the workers’ complaints.

    45. Under your nose – Clearly visible but not noticed. (Collins Dictionary)
    The keys were right under your nose the whole time.

    46. Up in the air – Uncertain or undecided. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    Our holiday plans are still up in the air.

    47. Walk on eggshells – To be very careful not to offend or upset someone. (Oxford Learner’s Dictionary)
    Since the argument, I’ve been walking on eggshells around her.

    48. You can’t judge a book by its cover – You shouldn’t decide what something or someone is like based only on appearance. (Cambridge Dictionary)
    He looks serious, but he’s very friendly — you can’t judge a book by its cover.

    49. Your guess is as good as mine – I don’t know any more than you do. (Collins Dictionary)
    When will the power be back? Your guess is as good as mine.

    50. Zip your lip – To stop talking or keep something secret. (Longman Dictionary)
    He told me to zip my lip and not tell anyone what happened.





    Friday, May 23, 2025

    Use of Get


    1. Get = Obtain / Fetch

    • Can you get me a coffee from the café? (Request to fetch something)
    • Get me a cup of tea, please. ( Requesting someone to bring something)
    • She got a promotion at work. (Received a promotion)

    2. Get = Experience / Receive

    • Did you get my email about the meeting? (Receive)
    • I got a cold last week. (Caught an illness)

    3. Get = Become (Change of State)

    • It’s getting dark outside. (Becoming dark)
    • He got rich after investing wisely. (Became wealthy)

    4. Get = Move / Leave / Arrive

    • Get off the bus at the next stop. (Exit)
    • We need to get home before midnight. (Return/arrive)

    5. Get + Adjective (State Change)

    • Don’t get mad—it was just a joke! (Become angry)
    • The soup got cold while I was away. (Became cold)

    6. Get + Past Participle (Passive Meaning)

    • They got married in Paris. (They were married)
    • My phone got stolen yesterday. (My phone was stolen)

    7. Get to + Verb (Opportunity / Permission)

    • I got to visit Japan last year. (Had the opportunity)
    • Do we get to leave early today (Are we allowed to?)

    8. Phrasal Verbs with "Get" (Idiomatic Uses)

    • I need to get up early tomorrow. (Wake up)
    • She finally got over her fear of flying. (Overcome)

    9. Get (Causative Verb)

    a) Get + someone + to do something 

    ( You cause someone to do something.)

    • I got him to fix my car. 
    ( I caused or persuaded him to fix the car.)


    b) Get + something + past participle 

    ( You arrange for something to be done, often by someone else.)

    • I got my hair cut yesterday. (cut by someone else)
    • I got the documents signed in time. (signed by someone else)

         Get vs Have (Causative)

    • I got him to clean the room.
         (get + someone + to + base verb)

    • I had him clean the room.
         (have + someone + base verb)


    Thursday, May 22, 2025

    Some Important Words Starting With A


    1. Adamant (adj) – firm or unyielding (একগুঁয়ে / অনমনীয়)
    She was adamant about not going to the party.

    2. Alleviate (verb) – to reduce or ease (উপশম করা / লাঘব করা)
    This medicine will alleviate your pain.

    3. Amiable (adj) – friendly and pleasant (অমায়িক / বন্ধুবৎসল)
    The shopkeeper was very amiable to the customers.

    4. Amicable (adj) – friendly and peaceful (বন্ধুত্বপূর্ণ / শান্তিপূর্ণ)
    They had an amicable discussion and settled the issue calmly.

    5. Apathy (noun) – lack of interest or emotion (উদাসীনতা / আগ্রহহীনতা)
    There was apathy among the students during the lecture.

    6. Audacious (adj) – bold or daring (সাহসী / ধৃষ্ট)
    It was an audacious decision to travel alone at night.

    7. Arrogant (adj) – having too much pride (অহঙ্কারী / গর্বিত)
    He sounded arrogant when he spoke about his success.

    8. Altruistic (adj) – selfless; caring about others (পরার্থপর / নিঃস্বার্থ)
    Her altruistic nature made her loved by all.

    9. Agitate (verb) – to disturb or upset (বিক্ষুব্ধ করা / উত্তেজিত করা)
    The loud noise agitated the old man.

    10. Ambiguous (adj) – unclear or having more than one meaning (দ্ব্যর্থপূর্ণ / অস্পষ্ট)
    His statement was too ambiguous to understand.

    11. Aspire (verb) – to aim or hope for something (আকাঙ্ক্ষা করা / বাসনা করা)
    She aspires to become a doctor one day.

    12. Abdicate (verb) – to give up power or responsibility (সিংহাসন ত্যাগ করা / দায়িত্ব ছেড়ে দেওয়া)
    The king abdicated the throne for his son.

    13. Abhor (verb) – to hate deeply (ঘৃণা করা / তীব্র বিরক্তি বোধ করা)
    She abhors any kind of cruelty to animals.

    14. Abundant (adj) – more than enough; plentiful (প্রচুর / প্রাচুর্যপূর্ণ)
    Mangoes are abundant in summer.

    15. Acclaim (noun/verb) – praise or approval (প্রশংসা / সাধুবাদ)
    The movie was acclaimed by critics worldwide. 

    Mr. N. Modi has won acclaim for his contribution to the nation.

    16. Accumulate (verb) – to gather or collect (সঞ্চয় করা / জমা করা)
    He accumulated wealth through hard work.

    17. Adverse (adj) – unfavourable or harmful (প্রতিকূল / ক্ষতিকর)
    The plan was cancelled due to adverse weather.

    18. Affluent (adj) – wealthy or rich (ধনী / সমৃদ্ধ)
    He came from an affluent family.

    19. Alienate (verb) – to make someone feel isolated (বিচ্ছিন্ন করা / বিমুখ করা)
    His rude words alienated his friends.

    20. Ample (adj) – enough or more than enough (প্রচুর / পর্যাপ্ত)
    There was ample time to finish the test.


    Wednesday, May 21, 2025

    Appropriate Prepositions (Part 2) for WBCS, WBPSC, SLST, SSC CGL

     

    Appropriate Prepositions (Part 2) for WBCS, WBPSC, SLST, SSC CGL


    51. Your success will depend ______ how you work.
    A) on
    B) for
    C) in
    D) through
    Answer: A) on

    52. The good servant brought ______ the price.
    A) down
    B) up
    C) off
    D) out
    Answer: A) down

    53. You should try to hold ______ your temper.
    A) on
    B) off
    C) back
    D) down
    Answer: C) back

    54. I have no liking ______ that man.
    A) of
    B) at
    C) with
    D) for
    Answer: D) for

    55. For all that I wish to deal ______ him fairly.
    A) to
    B) with
    C) in
    D) for
    Answer: B) with

    56. I disapproved your way ______ working and must, therefore, dispense ______ your services.
    A) of, with
    B) for, of
    C) at, from
    D) in, to
    Answer: A) of, with

    57. Be careful to guard ______ danger.
    A) off
    B) against
    C) with
    D) for
    Answer: B) against

    58. When do you intend to go ______ Jaipur?
    A) in
    B) on
    C) to
    D) at
    Answer: C) to

    59. Are you connected ______ the matter?
    A) in
    B) with
    C) to
    D) for
    Answer: B) with

    60. He is pleased ______ his new book.
    A) on
    B) with
    C) at
    D) for
    Answer: B) with

    61. Our friends rejoice ______ our success but enemies exult ______ our failure.
    A) at, over
    B) for, in
    C) with, at
    D) of, in
    Answer: A) at, over

    62. Shyam complied ______ my request.
    A) to
    B) with
    C) at
    D) for
    Answer: B) with

    63. It is time you went ______ the station.
    A) to
    B) for
    C) into
    D) through
    Answer: A) to

    64. Rohan went ______ his father and complained ______ his sister.
    A) to, at
    B) with, about
    C) to, against
    D) for, over
    Answer: C) to, against

    65. The woman was overwhelmed ______ grief.
    A) in
    B) by
    C) with
    D) of
    Answer: C) with

    66. The English triumphed ______ the Mughals.
    A) on
    B) over
    C) at
    D) against
    Answer: B) over

    67. He was convinced ______ the truth of the matter.
    A) with
    B) for
    C) in
    D) of
    Answer: D) of

    68. He murmured ______ the treatment he received.
    A) about
    B) over
    C) at
    D) to
    Answer: A) about

    69. The father deprived the son ______ all that he had.
    A) of
    B) from
    C) off
    D) by
    Answer: A) of

    70. The teacher warned the boys ______ making a noise.
    A) from
    B) against
    C) of
    D) with
    Answer: B) against

    71. Education is productive ______ good ideas.
    A) for
    B) with
    C) of
    D) to
    Answer: C) of

    72. She has great influence ______ her husband.
    A) on
    B) with
    C) over
    D) to
    Answer: A) on

    73. The man was blind ______ one eye.
    A) at
    B) in
    C) with
    D) to
    Answer: B) in

    74. A mother is blind ______ the faults of her son.
    A) to
    B) of
    C) in
    D) with
    Answer: A) to

    75. My friend is offended ______ me.
    A) to
    B) with
    C) for
    D) at
    Answer: B) with

    76. The title of knighthood was conferred ______ him.
    A) to
    B) at
    C) on
    D) upon
    Answer: C) on

    77. I can read the book ______ the light ______ the moon.
    A) in, from
    B) by, of
    C) under, at
    D) through, off
    Answer: B) by, of

    78. Please send me a letter ______ my address in Kolkata.
    A) for
    B) to
    C) at
    D) by
    Answer: B) to

    79. I have ______ dislike for dancing.
    A) to
    B) a
    C) with
    D) on
    Answer: B) a

    80. I have profited ______ my father's advice.
    A) with
    B) by
    C) of
    D) to
    Answer: B) by

    81. My visit ______ Kolkata was full of thrills.
    A) in
    B) for
    C) to
    D) into
    Answer: C) to

    82. I was simply astonished ______ his ignorance.
    A) on
    B) with
    C) of
    D) at
    Answer: D) at

    83. I congratulate you ______ your success at the examination.
    A) at
    B) on
    C) for
    D) of
    Answer: B) on

    84. I felt certain ______ my success.
    A) in
    B) of
    C) to
    D) with
    Answer: B) of

    85. It is ______ my power to help.
    A) into
    B) in
    C) at
    D) with
    Answer: B) in

    86. The artist took pains ______ the picture.
    A) over
    B) with
    C) for
    D) in
    Answer: B) with

    87. I was quite overwhelmed ______ emotions.
    A) for
    B) of
    C) with
    D) by
    Answer: C) with

    88. She was absorbed ______ study.
    A) with
    B) in
    C) at
    D) by
    Answer: B) in

    89. My teacher was pleased ______ my essay.
    A) at
    B) with
    C) of
    D) on
    Answer: B) with

    90. I confess my ignorance ______ the matter.
    A) in
    B) of
    C) to
    D) with
    Answer: B) of

    91. Rohan subscribed a good sum ______ the Reliance fund.
    A) with
    B) to
    C) in
    D) of
    Answer: B) to

    92. Ajit quarrelled with me ______ a matter.
    A) about
    B) over
    C) on
    D) for
    Answer: A) about (“over” is also acceptable)

    93. The services of the dishonest clerk were dispensed ______.
    A) by
    B) with
    C) from
    D) of
    Answer: B) with

    94. She did not despair ______ her recovery ______ illness.
    A) from, with
    B) of, with
    C) to, by
    D) at, in
    Answer: B) of, with

    95. A rich man should supply the poor ______ food.
    A) for
    B) with
    C) by
    D) of
    Answer: B) with

    96. I abstain ______ wine.
    A) of
    B) from
    C) for
    D) with
    Answer: B) from

    97. You are capable ______ doing this piece of work.
    A) in
    B) of
    C) at
    D) to
    Answer: B) of

    98. I succeeded ______ getting the work done.
    A) in
    B) at
    C) by
    D) to
    Answer: A) in

    99. The young man was married ______ her.
    A) to
    B) with
    C) at
    D) in
    Answer: A) to

    100. He has been true ______ his leader.
    A) with
    B) to
    C) at
    D) in
    Answer: B) to



    Tuesday, May 20, 2025

    Synonyms for WBCS, WBPSC & SSC CGL


    1. Abrogate
      a) Establish 
      b) Repeal 
      c) Support 
      d) Create
      Answer: b) Repeal
      Explanation: To abrogate means to officially cancel or repeal a law.

    2. Brevity
      a) Lengthiness 
      b) Conciseness 
      c) Complexity 
      d) Clarity
      Answer: b) Conciseness
      Explanation: Brevity refers to the concise and exact use of words.

    3. Cognizant
      a) Aware 
      b) Ignorant 
      c) Forgetful 
      d) Confused
      Answer: a) Aware
      Explanation: Cognizant means having knowledge or awareness.

    4. Deleterious
      a) Harmful 
      b) Beneficial 
      c) Neutral 
      d) Temporary
      Answer: a) Harmful
      Explanation: Deleterious means causing harm or damage.

    5. Enervate
      a) Strengthen 
      b) Weaken 
      c) Energize 
      d) Stimulate
      Answer: b) Weaken
      Explanation: To enervate means to drain energy or weaken.

    6. Fastidious
      a) Careless 
      b) Meticulous 
      c) Sloppy 
      d) Indifferent
      Answer: b) Meticulous
      Explanation: Fastidious means very attentive to detail.

    7. Garrulous
      a) Reticent 
      b) Talkative 
      c) Silent 
      d) Brief
      Answer: b) Talkative
      Explanation: Garrulous means excessively talkative.

    8. Harangue
      a) Whisper 
      b) Lecture 
      c) Compliment 
      d) Brief comment
      Answer: b) Lecture
      Explanation: A harangue is a lengthy and aggressive speech.

    9. Iconoclast
      a) Traditionalist 
      b) Rebel 
      c) Follower 
      d) Leader
      Answer: b) Rebel
      Explanation: An iconoclast is someone who attacks established beliefs.

    10. Juxtapose
      a) Separate 
      b) Compare side-by-side 
      c) Mix randomly 
      d) Hide
      Answer: b) Compare side-by-side
      Explanation: To juxtapose means to place close together for contrast.

    11. Laconic
      a) Wordy 
      b) Brief 
      c) Loud 
      d) Emotional
      Answer: b) Brief
      Explanation: Laconic speech is concise, using very few words.

    12. Maverick
      a) Conventional 
      b) Independent thinker 
      c) Follower 
      d) Average
      Answer: b) Independent thinker
      Explanation: A maverick is someone who acts independently and refuses to conform.

    13. Nebulous
      a) Clear 
      b) Vague 
      c) Bright 
      d) Solid
      Answer: b) Vague
      Explanation: Nebulous refers to something unclear or ill-defined.

    14. Obfuscate
      a) Clarify 
      b) Confuse 
      c) Illuminate 
      d) Simplify
      Answer: b) Confuse
      Explanation: To obfuscate means to make something unclear or difficult to understand.

    15. Paragon
      a) Flawed example 
      b) Perfect model 
      c) Ordinary item 
      d) Counterfeit
      Answer: b) Perfect model
      Explanation: A paragon is someone or something viewed as a perfect example of a quality.

    16. Atone
      a) Offend 
      b) Make amends 
      c) Damage 
      d) Accuse
      Answer: b) Make amends
      Explanation: To atone means to make amends for a wrongdoing.

    17. Recalcitrant
      a) Obedient 
      b) Stubbornly resistant to authority 
      c) Submissive 
      d) Cooperative
      Answer: b) Stubbornly resistant to authority
      Explanation: Recalcitrant describes someone who resists authority or control.

    18. Vacillate
      a) Decide 
      b) Waver between choices 
      c) Commit 
      d) Persist
      Answer: b) Waver between choices
      Explanation: To vacillate means to be indecisive or to waver between options.

    19. Prodigal
      a) Frugal 
      b) Extremely wasteful 
      c) Economical 
      d) Thrifty
      Answer: b) Extremely wasteful
      Explanation: Prodigal refers to someone who spends resources recklessly.

    20. Mitigate
      a) Aggravate 
      b) Reduce in intensity 
      c) Intensify 
      d) Ignore
      Answer: b) Reduce in intensity
      Explanation: To mitigate means to lessen the severity or impact of something.

    21. Benevolent
      a) Cruel 
      b) Generous 
      c) Angry 
      d) Greedy
      Answer: b) Generous
      Explanation: Benevolent means showing kindness or goodwill.

    22. Frugal
      a) Lavish 
      b) Economical 
      c) Generous 
      d) Extravagant
      Answer: b) Economical
      Explanation: Frugal describes someone who is careful with money and resources.

    23. Obsolete
      a) Outdated 
      b) Modern 
      c) Useful 
      d) Functional
      Answer: a) Outdated
      Explanation: Obsolete refers to something no longer in use or outdated.

    24. Emulate
      a) Ignore 
      b) Copy 
      c) Hate 
      d) Destroy
      Answer: b) Copy
      Explanation: To emulate means to imitate or strive to equal someone.

    25. Vivid
      a) Dull 
      b) Clear 
      c) Blurry 
      d) Uncertain
      Answer: b) Clear
      Explanation: Vivid describes something that is clear, detailed, and lifelike.

    26. Cajole
      a) Scold 
      b) Persuade 
      c) Ignore 
      d) Reject
      Answer: b) Persuade
      Explanation: To cajole means to gently persuade or coax someone.

    27. Ephemeral
      a) Eternal 
      b) Temporary 
      c) Fragile 
      d) Permanent
      Answer: b) Temporary
      Explanation: Ephemeral means lasting for a very short time.

    28. Voracious
      a) Hungry 
      b) Slow 
      c) Fussy 
      d) Generous
      Answer: a) Hungry
      Explanation: Voracious means having an insatiable appetite, especially for food or knowledge.

    29. Lugubrious
      a) Cheerful 
      b) Mournful 
      c) Boring 
      d) Energetic
      Answer: b) Mournful
      Explanation: Lugubrious means looking or sounding sad and dismal.

    30. Pragmatic
      a) Idealistic 
      b) Practical 
      c) Theoretical 
      d) Foolish
      Answer: b) Practical
      Explanation: Pragmatic refers to dealing with things sensibly and realistically.

    31. Inevitable
      a) Avoidable 
      b) Certain 
      c) Unlikely 
      d) Random
      Answer: b) Certain
      Explanation: Inevitable means something that is bound to happen or unavoidable.

    32. Alacrity
      a) Hesitation 
      b) Eagerness 
      c) Laziness 
      d) Fear
      Answer: b) Eagerness
      Explanation: Alacrity means cheerful readiness or enthusiasm.

    33. Ubiquitous
      a) Rare 
      b) Everywhere 
      c) Hidden 
      d) Expensive
      Answer: b) Everywhere
      Explanation: Ubiquitous describes something present or found everywhere.

    34. Repudiate
      a) Accept 
      b) Reject 
      c) Praise 
      d) Encourage
      Answer: b) Reject
      Explanation: To repudiate means to reject or disown something formally.

    35. Reticent
      a) Talkative 
      b) Reserved 
      c) Angry 
      d) Confident
      Answer: b) Reserved
      Explanation: Reticent means inclined to keep one's thoughts or feelings to oneself.

    36. Avarice
      a) Generosity 
      b) Greed 
      c) Poverty 
      d) Kindness
      Answer: b) Greed
      Explanation: Avarice refers to an extreme desire for wealth or material gain.

    37. Diligent
      a) Lazy 
      b) Hardworking 
      c) Careless 
      d) Slow
      Answer: b) Hardworking
      Explanation: Diligent means showing steady and earnest effort.

    38. Belligerent
      a) Friendly 
      b) Aggressive 
      c) Shy 
      d) Neutral
      Answer: b) Aggressive
      Explanation: Belligerent describes a hostile or warlike attitude.

    39. Meticulous
      a) Careless 
      b) Detailed 
      c) Rough 
      d) Quick
      Answer: b) Detailed
      Explanation: Meticulous means showing great attention to detail.

    40. Pernicious
      a) Harmful 
      b) Beneficial 
      c) Temporary 
      d) Trivial
      Answer: a) Harmful
      Explanation: Pernicious implies causing great harm, often subtly.

    41. Sagacious
      a) Foolish 
      b) Wise 
      c) Young 
      d) Arrogant
      Answer: b) Wise
      Explanation: Sagacious means having sound judgment or keen insight.

    42. Ostentatious
      a) Modest 
      b) Showy 
      c) Hidden 
      d) Boring
      Answer: b) Showy
      Explanation: Ostentatious refers to flashy display meant to attract attention.

    43. Rescind
      a) Enact 
      b) Cancel or abolish 
      c) Validate 
      d) Approve
      Answer: b) Cancel or abolish
      Explanation: To rescind means to revoke or cancel a law, order, or agreement.

    44. Eloquent
      a) Inarticulate 
      b) Garrulous 
      c) Fluent and clear in speech 
      d) Reticent
      Answer: c) Fluent and clear in speech
      Explanation: Eloquent describes fluent and persuasive speaking or writing.

    45. Misanthrope
      a) Philanthropist 
      b) Misogynist 
      c) Person who hates mankind 
      d) Optimist
      Answer: c) Person who hates mankind
      Explanation: A misanthrope is a person who dislikes or distrusts humankind and avoids human society.

    46. Amiable
      a) Hostile 
      b) Friendly 
      c) Rude 
      d) Arrogant
      Answer: b) Friendly
      Explanation: Amiable means having a pleasant and friendly manner.

    47. Copious
      a) Scarce 
      b) Angry 
      c) Abundant 
      d) Brief
      Answer: c) Abundant
      Explanation: Copious means large in quantity or number; plentiful.

    48. Insipid
      a) Tasty 
      b) Dull 
      c) Bright 
      d) Exciting
      Answer: b) Dull
      Explanation: Insipid refers to something lacking flavour or interest.

    49. Euphoria
      a) Sadness 
      b) Fear 
      c) Bliss 
      d) Anger
      Answer: c) Bliss
      Explanation: Euphoria is a feeling or state of intense excitement and happiness.

    50. Impeccable
      a) Faulty 
      b) Perfect 
      c) Average 
      d) Late
      Answer: b) Perfect
      Explanation: Impeccable means flawless or without error.


    Monday, May 19, 2025

    Clerkship 2023 English Questions

    Clerkship 2023 English Questions 

    Follow FB Page

    1) The customs were searching ______ drugs at the airport.

    A) for
    B) on
    C) in
    D) at
    Answer: A) for

    2) He acceded ______ my request.
    A) for
    B) of
    C) on
    D) to
    Answer: D) to

    3) A synonym of the word ‘Equivocal’ is
    A) Ambiguous
    B) Equal
    C) Clear
    D) Vocal
    Answer: A) Ambiguous

    • Equivocal means not clearly understandable
    • Synonyms- Obscure, Vague, Ambiguous 


    4) ‘They are men of like build and stature.’ In the sentence ‘like’ has been used as a/an
    A) Adjective
    B) Noun
    C) Preposition
    D) Adverb
    Answer: A) Adjective

    • They are men of like build and stature. (তাদের দৈহিক গড়ন ও উচ্চতা প্রায় একই রকম।) Here the phrase 'of like' implies 'of similar characteristics.' Another sentence with same structure is 'They were warriors of like spirit and strength.'
    • They - Pronoun 
    • Are - Verb
    • Men - Noun
    • Of - Preposition 
    • Like - Adjective 
    • Build - Noun
    • And - Conjunction 
    • Stature - Noun


    Follow FB Page


    5) He could not ______ to see his brother in any kind of distress.
    A) bare
    B) beer
    C) bore
    D) bear
    Answer: D) bear


    6) Choose the correct response.
    "I like ice-cream."

    A) So am I.
    B) So do I.
    C) So I do.
    D) I also like.
    Answer: B) So do I.

    • Here verb is 'like'. So answer should be 'so do I'. 
    • He likes mango. - So do I
    • You are very happy. - So am I.
    • She went to Kolkata. So did I.



    7) A ______ of wolves.
    A) herd
    B) colony
    C) drove
    D) pack
    Answer: D) pack


    • A herd of elephants 
    • A colony of ants
    • A drove of cattle 
    • A pack of wolves



    8) Come and meet me in my office. What part of speech is ‘me’?
    A) Noun
    B) Adverb
    C) Pronoun
    D) Modal Verb
    Answer: C) Pronoun


    9) The feminine gender of Drone is
    A) Duck
    B) Bee
    C) Filly
    D) Doe
    Answer: B) Bee


    10) I begged him to reconsider his decision but he refused to yield. Replace the underlined portion with a suitable idiom.
    A) took to his heels
    B) put his foot down
    C) turned his head
    D) took to heart
    Answer: B) put his foot down


    • To take to one's heels - To run away quickly
    • To turn someone's head - To make someone vain, conceited etc ( অহংকারী করে তোলা)
    • To take something to heart - To be deeply affected or hurt by something
    • To put your foot down - To take a firm and bold step and refuse to compromise / To refuse to yield (বশ্যতা স্বীকার না করা অর্থ্যাৎ দৃঢ় থাকা)



    11) Change into Passive Voice: The mason is building the wall.
    A) The wall is being built by the mason.
    B) The wall is been build by the mason.
    C) The mason build wall.
    D) The mason is built by the wall.
    Answer: A) The wall is being built by the mason.


    12) Choose the correct antonym of Magnanimous:
    A) Selfish
    B) Generous
    C) Courageous
    D) Ignoramus
    Answer: A) Selfish

    • Magnanimous means generous, honourable, sublime, venerable, gallant.
    • Ignoramus means stupid person, idiot.


    13) Identify the type of sentence: He replied that he worked whenever he liked.
    A) Simple sentence
    B) Compound sentence
    C) Complex sentence
    D) Exclamatory sentence
    Answer: C) Complex sentence


    14) Replace the underlined verb with the correct phrasal verb: 

    The building was demolished last year.
    A) pulled down
    B) turned down
    C) gone down
    D) made down
    Answer: A) pulled down

    • Turn down means to reject or refuse something or to reduce volume, heat etc.
    • Go down means to decrease.


    15) Change the sentence into an affirmative one: 

    This story is not incomplete.
    A) This story is not incomplete.
    B) This story is complete.
    C) Completeness is there in this story.
    D) This story is totally complete.
    Answer: B) This story is complete.


    16) Replace the verb with the correct phrasal verb: 

    The plan did not succeed.
    A) come on
    B) come in
    C) come along
    D) come off
    Answer: D) come off


    • Come in - 1) To enter a place.     2) To arrive (train, bus etc.)
    • Come off - 1) To succeed.     2) To become detached.
    • Come on - 1) To encourage someone.      2) To start working. 



    17) Change the voice: The guard refused him admittance.


    A) The guard refused to let him in.
    B) Admission was not granted to him by the guard.
    C) He was not admitted by the guard.
    D) He was refused admittance by the guard.
    Answer: D) He was refused admittance by the guard.


    18) Replace the underlined phrase with an idiom: 

    He listened when his boss spoke.
    A) heard carefully
    B) paid his ears
    C) gave his ears
    D) was all ears
    Answer: D) was all ears

    • Be all ears means be listening eagerly.


    19) An ophthalmologist deals with:
    A) Matters of the brain
    B) Diseases of the respiratory system
    C) Diseases of the eye
    D) A particular skin disease
    Answer: C) Diseases of the eye


    • Dermatologist - A doctor who specializes in skin diseases.
    • Pulmonologist - A doctor who deals with diseases of pulmonary system.
    • Neurologist - A doctor who specializes in the brain.
    • Ornithologist - A person who studies birds.



    20) Fill in the blanks appropriately: A man ______ live ______ satisfactorily ______ he does at present ______ half his present income.
    A) could, very, as, by
    B) can, as, as, on
    C) would, as, like, with
    D) will, very, since, by
    Answer: B) can, as, as, on


    21) Replace the underlined portion with an idiom: He got himself into trouble by interfering in his neighbour’s affairs.
    A) strained every nerve
    B) took to heart
    C) out of spirits
    D) burnt his fingers
    Answer: D) burnt his fingers

    • To burn one's finger means to suffer a loss for something.


    22) Choose the correct modal verb: The online store informed that we ______ cancel the order we placed, if we wish.
    A) shall
    B) would
    C) will
    D) can
    Answer: D) can

    23) Replace the verb with a phrasal verb: I have stopped smoking.
    A) given in to
    B) given to
    C) given up
    D) given on
    Answer: C) given up


    • Give up - To quit something 
    • Give in - To surrender 
    • Give out - To distribute 
    • Give away - To donate 
    • Give of - To emit
    • Give back - To return 


    24) Identify the type of sentence: The moon was bright and we could see our way.
    A) Complex sentence
    B) Simple sentence
    C) Compound sentence
    D) Exclamatory sentence
    Answer: C) Compound sentence

    25) Choose the adjective form of the word ‘Glory’:
    A) Gloried
    B) Glorious
    C) Glorification
    D) Gloriously
    Answer: B) Glorious

    26) Fill in the blank appropriately: The car broke down and we ______ get a taxi.
    A) have to
    B) had to
    C) must
    D) got to
    Answer: B) had to

    27) Replace the underlined verb with a phrasal verb: He has quarrelled with her.
    A) fallen in
    B) fallen out
    C) fallen over
    D) fallen down
    Answer: B) fallen out


    • Fall down - To drop to the ground 
    • Fall off - To drop from a higher place 
    • Fall out - To quarrel 
    • Fall apart - To break into pieces 
    • Fall behind - To lag in work
    • Fall through - To fail


    28) Choose the correct word: The ______ half of the play was uninteresting.

    A) later
    B) latter
    C) latest
    D) late
    Answer: B) latter


    • Latter half means second half


    29) Change the voice: All his friends laughed at him.
    A) He was laughed at by all his friends.
    B) His friends laughed at him.
    C) His friends were laughing at him.
    D) He laughed at all his friends.
    Answer: A) He was laughed at by all his friends.

    30) Identify the figure of speech in the sentence: “Life is as tedious as a twice-told tale.”
    A) Metaphor and Alliteration
    B) Apostrophe and Hyperbole
    C) Simile and Alliteration
    D) Alliteration and Personification
    Answer: C) Simile and Alliteration




    Saturday, May 10, 2025

    From Chaucer to Spenser

     

    1. Who is known as the "Father of English Literature"?
      a) William Langland
      b) Geoffrey Chaucer
      c) John Gower
      d) Edmund Spenser
      Answer: b) Geoffrey Chaucer

    2. Which of Chaucer’s works is an unfinished collection of stories told by pilgrims?
      a) Troilus and Criseyde
      b) The Canterbury Tales
      c) The Parliament of Fowls
      d) The Book of the Duchess
      Answer: b) The Canterbury Tales

    3. What language did Chaucer primarily write in?
      a) Latin
      b) Old English
      c) Middle English
      d) French
      Answer: c) Middle English

    4. Which tale in The Canterbury Tales features a woman arguing for female sovereignty?
      a) The Knight’s Tale
      b) The Miller’s Tale
      c) The Wife of Bath’s Tale
      d) The Pardoner’s Tale
      Answer: c) The Wife of Bath’s Tale

    5. Chaucer’s Troilus and Criseyde is adapted from which earlier writer?
      a) Dante
      b) Boccaccio
      c) Petrarch
      d) Virgil
      Answer: b) Boccaccio

    6. Which poetic form did Chaucer popularize in English?
      a) Sonnet
      b) Heroic couplet
      c) Blank verse
      d) Ballad
      Answer: b) Heroic couplet

    7. Chaucer held which occupation besides being a writer?
      a) Monk
      b) Blacksmith
      c) Diplomat and civil servant
      d) Physician
      Answer: c) Diplomat and civil servant

    8. Which of these is NOT a work by Chaucer?
      a) The Legend of Good Women
      b) The House of Fame
      c) Piers Plowman
      d) The Book of the Duchess
      Answer: c) Piers Plowman

    9. In The Canterbury Tales, where are the pilgrims traveling?
      a) London
      b) Canterbury
      c) Rome
      d) York
      Answer: b) Canterbury

    10. Which social class is NOT represented among Chaucer’s pilgrims?
      a) Nobility
      b) Clergy
      c) Peasants
      d) Merchants
      Answer: a) Nobility

    1. John Gower’s Confessio Amantis is written in which language(s)?
      a) Only Latin
      b) Only French
      c) English, French, and Latin
      d) Only Middle English
      Answer: c) English, French, and Latin

    2. What is the primary theme of Piers Plowman?
      a) Courtly love
      b) Religious and social corruption
      c) Arthurian legend
      d) Classical mythology
      Answer: b) Religious and social corruption

    3. Who wrote Piers Plowman?
      a) Geoffrey Chaucer
      b) John Gower
      c) William Langland
      d) Thomas Malory
      Answer: c) William Langland

    4. Which work is a dream-vision allegory?
      a) Le Morte d’Arthur
      b) Confessio Amantis
      c) Piers Plowman
      d) The Faerie Queene
      Answer: c) Piers Plowman

    5. Gower’s Confessio Amantis is structured as a:
      a) Series of letters
      b) Collection of love stories framed as a confession
      c) Epic battle narrative
      d) Satirical poem
      Answer: b) Collection of love stories framed as a confession

    1. What is Le Morte d’Arthur primarily about?
      a) The life of Chaucer
      b) The Trojan War
      c) King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table
      d) The War of the Roses
      Answer: c) King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table

    2. In what form was Le Morte d’Arthur written?
      a) Verse
      b) Prose
      c) Drama
      d) Epistolary
      Answer: b) Prose

    3. Malory wrote Le Morte d’Arthur while:
      a) Serving as a knight
      b) In prison
      c) As a monk
      d) In exile
      Answer: b) In prison

    4. Which century was Le Morte d’Arthur published?
      a) 14th
      b) 15th
      c) 16th
      d) 17th
      Answer: b) 15th (1485)

    5. Who printed Le Morte d’Arthur?
      a) Geoffrey Chaucer
      b) William Caxton
      c) Edmund Spenser
      d) John Milton
      Answer: b) William Caxton

    1. Which Scottish poet wrote The Testament of Cresseid?
      a) William Dunbar
      b) Robert Henryson
      c) Gavin Douglas
      d) John Barbour
      Answer: b) Robert Henryson

    2. What is The Lament for the Makaris about?
      a) A knight’s quest
      b) A satire on the Church
      c) An elegy for dead poets
      d) A love story
      Answer: c) An elegy for dead poets

    3. Gavin Douglas is known for translating which classical work?
      a) The Iliad
      b) The Aeneid
      c) The Odyssey
      d) Metamorphoses
      Answer: b) The Aeneid

    4. Which Scottish poet was a major influence on later Renaissance writers?
      a) Robert Henryson
      b) William Dunbar
      c) Both a and b
      d) Neither
      Answer: c) Both a and b

    5. Which work is a dream allegory?
      a) The Golden Targe
      b) The Testament of Cresseid
      c) King Hart
      d) The Bruce
      Answer: a) The Golden Targe

    1. Who introduced the sonnet to England?
      a) Chaucer
      b) Wyatt
      c) Surrey
      d) Spenser
      Answer: b) Wyatt

    2. Which poet first used blank verse in English?
      a) Wyatt
      b) Surrey
      c) Spenser
      d) Sidney
      Answer: b) Surrey

    3. Wyatt’s Whoso List to Hunt is an adaptation of a sonnet by:
      a) Dante
      b) Petrarch
      c) Boccaccio
      d) Ronsard
      Answer: b) Petrarch

    4. Surrey’s translation of Virgil’s Aeneid used which meter?
      a) Rhymed couplets
      b) Blank verse
      c) Ballad meter
      d) Free verse
      Answer: b) Blank verse

    5. Which form did Wyatt and Surrey help popularize?
      a) Epic
      b) Sonnet
      c) Satire
      d) Pastoral
      Answer: b) Sonnet

    1. What was a key theme in many of Wyatt’s sonnets?
      a) Nature worship
      b) Religious doubt
      c) Unrequited love and courtly frustration
      d) Military glory
      Answer: c) Unrequited love and courtly frustration

    2. Which court did Wyatt and Surrey serve in?
      a) Elizabeth I
      b) Richard III
      c) Henry VIII
      d) Edward VI
      Answer: c) Henry VIII

    3. What distinguishes the ‘English sonnet’ form from the ‘Petrarchan’ form?
      a) Use of terza rima
      b) Blank verse instead of rhyme
      c) Rhyme scheme of ABABCDCDEFEFGG
      d) Written in Latin
      Answer: c) Rhyme scheme of ABABCDCDEFEFGG

    4. Which poet was executed for treason?
      a) Chaucer
      b) Wyatt
      c) Surrey
      d) Gower
      Answer: c) Surrey

    5. What is a major contribution of Wyatt and Surrey to English poetry?
      a) Founding English drama
      b) Translating the Bible
      c) Experimenting with metre and forms, especially sonnets and blank verse
      d) Composing religious epics
      Answer: c) Experimenting with metre and forms, especially sonnets and blank verse

    1. Which of the following is Edmund Spenser’s most famous work?
      a) The Shepheardes Calender
      b) Amoretti
      c) The Faerie Queene
      d) Epithalamion
      Answer: c) The Faerie Queene

    2. The Faerie Queene is written in what verse form?
      a) Heroic couplet
      b) Spenserian stanza
      c) Blank verse
      d) Ballad metre
      Answer: b) Spenserian stanza

    3. Which monarch is allegorically represented in The Faerie Queene?
      a) Mary Tudor
      b) Elizabeth I
      c) James I
      d) Anne Boleyn
      Answer: b) Elizabeth I

    4. How many books of The Faerie Queene were completed?
      a) 3
      b) 6
      c) 9
      d) 12
      Answer: b) 6

    5. What theme dominates Book I of The Faerie Queene?
      a) Justice
      b) Temperance
      c) Holiness
      d) Chastity
      Answer: c) Holiness

    6. Who is the Redcrosse Knight meant to represent?
      a) Spenser himself
      b) St. George/Protestant England
      c) The Pope
      d) A fictional dragon-slayer
      Answer: b) St. George/Protestant England

    7. Which poem by Spenser celebrates his marriage?
      a) Amoretti
      b) Epithalamion
      c) Prothalamion
      d) The Ruins of Time
      Answer: b) Epithalamion

    8. Spenser’s poetic style is often described as:
      a) Simple and direct
      b) Ornate and archaic
      c) Satirical and harsh
      d) Imitative and plain
      Answer: b) Ornate and archaic

    9. In which poetic work did Spenser use pastoral eclogues?
      a) The Faerie Queene
      b) Amoretti
      c) The Shepheardes Calender
      d) Prothalamion
      Answer: c) The Shepheardes Calender

    10. What is the rhyme scheme of the Spenserian stanza?
      a) ABAB CDCD EFEF GG
      b) ABABBCC
      c) ABABBCBCC
      d) ABABBCACD
      Answer: c) ABABBCBCC

    11. What meter does Spenser use for his stanza's ninth line?
      a) Iambic pentameter
      b) Iambic tetrameter
      c) Alexandrine (iambic hexameter)
      d) Trochaic trimeter
      Answer: c) Alexandrine (iambic hexameter)

    12. Spenser's Prothalamion is a poem celebrating:
      a) A funeral
      b) War victory
      c) A wedding
      d) Spring
      Answer: c) A wedding

    13. Which poet was Spenser influenced by most directly?
      a) Chaucer
      b) Milton
      c) Sidney
      d) Langland
      Answer: a) Chaucer

    14. The Shepheardes Calender is divided into how many eclogues?
      a) 10
      b) 12
      c) 24
      d) 14
      Answer: b) 12

    15. Spenser received his education at:
      a) Cambridge
      b) Oxford
      c) Eton
      d) St. Andrews
      Answer: a) Cambridge

    16. What role did Spenser have in Ireland?
      a) Merchant
      b) Diplomat
      c) Colonial administrator
      d) School teacher
      Answer: c) Colonial administrator

    17. Which of the following is NOT by Spenser?
      a) Colin Clouts Come Home Again
      b) The Ruines of Rome
      c) Astrophel
      d) Arcadia
      Answer: d) Arcadia

    18. In The Faerie Queene, the character of Britomart symbolises:
      a) Justice
      b) Temperance
      c) Chastity
      d) Glory
      Answer: c) Chastity

    19. Spenser dedicated The Faerie Queene to:
      a) Queen Elizabeth I
      b) Queen Mary
      c) King Henry VIII
      d) King James I
      Answer: a) Queen Elizabeth I

    20. What is the literary purpose of The Faerie Queene according to Spenser?
      a) Entertainment only
      b) Historical record
      c) To fashion a gentleman in virtuous discipline
      d) Allegory of ancient myths
      Answer: c) To fashion a gentleman in virtuous discipline

    1. Which literary period does Chaucer belong to?
      a) Anglo-Saxon
      b) Middle English
      c) Early Modern English
      d) Restoration
      Answer: b) Middle English

    2. What is allegory?
      a) A humorous imitation
      b) A narrative with a double meaning—literal and symbolic
      c) A poem written in dialogue form
      d) A form of satire
      Answer: b) A narrative with a double meaning—literal and symbolic

    3. The term ‘Renaissance’ means:
      a) Decay
      b) Revolution
      c) Rebirth
      d) Rebellion
      Answer: c) Rebirth

    4. Which event marks the end of the Middle Ages in England?
      a) The death of Chaucer
      b) The fall of Constantinople
      c) The Battle of Bosworth (1485)
      d) The start of the Hundred Years’ War
      Answer: c) The Battle of Bosworth (1485)

    5. Which invention greatly influenced literary culture during the 15th century?
      a) Telescope
      b) Printing press
      c) Microscope
      d) Compass
      Answer: b) Printing press

    6. Who introduced the printing press to England?
      a) William Langland
      b) John Gower
      c) William Caxton
      d) Edmund Spenser
      Answer: c) William Caxton

    7. The term ‘humanism’ during the Renaissance refers to:
      a) Rejection of all religion
      b) Focus on human experience and classical learning
      c) Support for medieval chivalry
      d) Worship of nature
      Answer: b) Focus on human experience and classical learning

    8. Which form became prominent in English poetry due to Petrarch’s influence?
      a) Ballad
      b) Ode
      c) Sonnet
      d) Elegy
      Answer: c) Sonnet

    9. A ‘pastoral’ poem typically deals with:
      a) Urban life
      b) Political intrigue
      c) Countryside and rural simplicity
      d) Epic battles
      Answer: c) Countryside and rural simplicity

    10. Who is considered a precursor of the Renaissance in England?
      a) Gower
      b) Malory
      c) Chaucer
      d) Spenser
      Answer: c) Chaucer

    11. What is a ‘frame narrative’?
      a) A story with illustrations
      b) A poem written in quatrains
      c) A story within a story
      d) A story written in dramatic form
      Answer: c) A story within a story

    12. Which of the following is a frame narrative?
      a) Beowulf
      b) The Faerie Queene
      c) The Canterbury Tales
      d) The Aeneid
      Answer: c) The Canterbury Tales

    13. Which term refers to a narrative poem celebrating heroic deeds?
      a) Elegy
      b) Epic
      c) Eclogue
      d) Sonnet
      Answer: b) Epic

    14. The word ‘eclogue’ is associated with:
      a) Tragedy
      b) Urban satire
      c) Pastoral poetry
      d) Religious verse
      Answer: c) Pastoral poetry

    15. Which poet was most influential in shaping early English epic form?
      a) Gower
      b) Langland
      c) Chaucer
      d) Spenser
      Answer: d) Spenser

    16. ‘Alliteration’ means:
      a) Repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words
      b) Rhyming of alternate lines
      c) Use of metaphor
      d) Listing of three or more adjectives
      Answer: a) Repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words

    17. Which of these is an example of alliterative verse?
      a) The Faerie Queene
      b) The Shepheardes Calender
      c) Piers Plowman
      d) The Rape of the Lock
      Answer: c) Piers Plowman

    18. Which literary term refers to the use of symbolic characters to represent abstract ideas?
      a) Allegory
      b) Parody
      c) Ballad
      d) Irony
      Answer: a) Allegory

    19. What literary technique involves exaggeration for effect?
      a) Satire
      b) Hyperbole
      c) Metaphor
      d) Irony
      Answer: b) Hyperbole

    20. Which work best represents the transition from medieval to Renaissance values?
      a) Confessio Amantis
      b) The Canterbury Tales
      c) The Faerie Queene
      d) Le Morte d’Arthur
      Answer: c) The Faerie Queene

    1. Which pilgrimage frame frames the storytelling structure in The Canterbury Tales?
      a) Pilgrims traveling to Rome
      b) Pilgrims traveling to Canterbury
      c) Pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem
      d) Pilgrims traveling to York
      Answer: b) Pilgrims traveling to Canterbury

    2. In “The Pardoner’s Tale,” what do the three rioters seek?
      a) Love
      b) Gold
      c) Adventure
      d) Justice
      Answer: b) Gold

    3. Which character in The Faerie Queene represents Sir Philip Sidney?
      a) Una
      b) Britomart
      c) Amoretta
      d) Prince Arthur
      Answer: c) Amoretta

    4. What is the main moral of “The Nun’s Priest’s Tale”?
      a) Beware of flattery
      b) Value of honesty
      c) Dangers of pride
      d) Importance of courage
      Answer: a) Beware of flattery

    5. Which work uses interlocking rhyme and a final alexandrine?
      a) The Faerie Queene
      b) Amoretti
      c) Troilus and Criseyde
      d) The Shepheardes Calender
      Answer: a) The Faerie Queene

    6. “The Ruins of Rome” by Spenser reflects on the theme of:
      a) Love’s persistence
      b) Decay of empires
      c) Pastoral bliss
      d) Religious devotion
      Answer: b) Decay of empires

    7. Which poem is a wedding song?
      a) Epithalamion
      b) Prothalamion
      c) Amoretti
      d) The Shepheardes Calender
      Answer: a) Epithalamion

    8. The character Sir Topas appears in which Canterbury Tale?
      a) The Miller’s Tale
      b) The Reeve’s Tale
      c) The Friar’s Tale
      d) The Tale of Sir Thopas
      Answer: d) The Tale of Sir Thopas

    9. Which author wrote a critique of courtly love conventions in Middle English?
      a) Chaucer
      b) Gower
      c) Langland
      d) Malory
      Answer: b) Gower

    10. The “House of Fame” by Chaucer is an example of a:
      a) Dream vision
      b) Epic poem
      c) Sonnet sequence
      d) Pastoral eclogue
      Answer: a) Dream vision

    11. What distinguishes Spenserian stanza from Petrarchan sonnet?
      a) Number of lines
      b) Presence of couplet ending
      c) Use of alexandrine
      d) All of the above
      Answer: d) All of the above

    12. In “The Knight’s Tale,” Arcite and Palamon contend for the love of:
      a) Emily
      b) Constance
      c) Dorigen
      d) Criseyde
      Answer: a) Emily

    13. Which work features the proverb “Radix malorum est cupiditas”?
      a) The Pardoner’s Tale
      b) The Wife of Bath’s Tale
      c) Troilus and Criseyde
      d) Confessio Amantis
      Answer: a) The Pardoner’s Tale

    14. Who served as Spenser’s patron?
      a) Lord Burleigh
      b) Sir Walter Raleigh
      c) Sir Philip Sidney
      d) Queen Elizabeth I
      Answer: b) Sir Walter Raleigh

    15. What is the structure of Amoretti by Spenser?
      a) 89 sonnets
      b) 100 sonnets
      c) 50 sonnets
      d) 12 eclogues
      Answer: a) 89 sonnets

    16. Which work by Surrey was left incomplete at his death?
      a) Translation of the Aeneid
      b) Astrophel
      c) The Mirror for Magistrates
      d) The Shepheardes Calender
      Answer: a) Translation of the Aeneid

    17. Who among these wrote eclogues, sonnets, and an epithalamion?
      a) Chaucer
      b) Spenser
      c) Sidney
      d) Wyatt
      Answer: b) Spenser

    18. Which medieval author wrote in a tripartite language mixture?
      a) Chaucer
      b) Gower
      c) Langland
      d) Malory
      Answer: b) Gower

    19. Which work satirizes scholastic disputation and church corruption?
      a) Piers Plowman
      b) The Parliament of Fowls
      c) The Nun’s Priest’s Tale
      d) Confessio Amantis
      Answer: a) Piers Plowman

    20. What does the ‘Spenserian stanza’ finale alexandrine add to the stanza’s effect?
      a) A sense of closure
      b) A tonal shift
      c) Elevation of the poem’s grandeur
      d) All of the above
      Answer: d) All of the above

    21. Which work includes the character of the Wife of Bath?
      a) Troilus and Criseyde
      b) The Canterbury Tales
      c) The Faerie Queene
      d) Confessio Amantis
      Answer: b) The Canterbury Tales

    22. Who first brought vernacular literary prestige to English?
      a) Chaucer
      b) Malory
      c) Langland
      d) Gower
      Answer: a) Chaucer

    23. Which poem contains the dialogue between Time and History?
      a) The Faerie Queene
      b) The Ruins of Time
      c) The Shepheardes Calender
      d) The Ruine of Rome
      Answer: b) The Ruins of Time

    24. Which poetic device is exemplified by “full fathom five thy father lies”?
      a) Alliteration
      b) Assonance
      c) Consonance
      d) Internal rhyme
      Answer: b) Assonance

    25. What is the principal aim of Spenser’s Prothalamion?
      a) To mourn a loss
      b) To satirize court
      c) To celebrate marriage
      d) To instruct in morality
      Answer: c) To celebrate marriage


    Important Movement in English Literature

      Important Movement in English Literature  1.The Renaissance (c. 1500–1660) The Renaissance was a major cultural and literary movement mark...