SSC CGL English : Cloze Test

Question 1:

The sun was shining brightly, and the birds were singing. It was a beautiful day, perfect for a walk in the park. I decided to call my friend and ask him if he wanted to ____ me.

  1. (a) company
  2. (b) accompany
  3. (c) campaign
  4. (d) attach

Correct Answer: (b) accompany

Explanation: The verb ‘accompany’ means to go somewhere with someone. It fits the context of asking a friend to join for a walk.

Question 2:

Despite studying hard for the exam, he couldn’t ____ all the questions in time. He felt disappointed with his performance.

  1. (a) attempt
  2. (b) attend
  3. (c) attain
  4. (d) affect

Correct Answer: (a) attempt

Explanation: ‘Attempt’ means to try to do something, especially something difficult. In the context of an exam, one ‘attempts’ questions.

Question 3:

The old mansion, which had been abandoned for years, was believed to be ____ by ghosts. Villagers were afraid to go near it after dark.

  1. (a) haunted
  2. (b) hunted
  3. (c) wanted
  4. (d) taunted

Correct Answer: (a) haunted

Explanation: ‘Haunted’ is used to describe a place frequented by ghosts. This is the most appropriate word for the context.

Question 4:

The government has launched a new ____ to combat unemployment by providing skill development programs for the youth.

  1. (a) initial
  2. (b) initiative
  3. (c) imitation
  4. (d) intuition

Correct Answer: (b) initiative

Explanation: An ‘initiative’ is a new plan or process to achieve something or solve a problem. It fits the context of a government program.

Question 5:

If you want to be a successful writer, you must have a vivid ____ and a good command of the language.

  1. (a) imagination
  2. (b) image
  3. (c) imitation
  4. (d) illusion

Correct Answer: (a) imagination

Explanation: ‘Imagination’ is the ability to form mental images or concepts of things that are not present. It’s a crucial quality for a writer.

Question 6:

The detective had to ____ all the clues carefully to solve the complex mystery.

  1. (a) scrutinize
  2. (b) socialize
  3. (c) sympathize
  4. (d) scandalize

Correct Answer: (a) scrutinize

Explanation: To ‘scrutinize’ means to examine something thoroughly and carefully. This is what a detective does with clues.

Question 7:

The company is looking for candidates who are ____ in both spoken and written English.

  1. (a) defiant
  2. (b) proficient
  3. (c) deficient
  4. (d) sufficient

Correct Answer: (b) proficient

Explanation: ‘Proficient’ means skilled and experienced in doing something. It is the correct word to describe skill in a language.

Question 8:

The judge’s decision was ____ and fair, taking into account all the evidence presented.

  1. (a) impartial
  2. (b) partial
  3. (c) impractical
  4. (d) important

Correct Answer: (a) impartial

Explanation: ‘Impartial’ means treating all rivals or disputants equally; fair and just. This word aligns with the idea of a fair judge.

Question 9:

Due to the heavy rainfall, the river ____ its banks and flooded the nearby villages.

  1. (a) overflew
  2. (b) overcame
  3. (c) overflowed
  4. (d) overlooked

Correct Answer: (c) overflowed

Explanation: ‘Overflowed’ means to flow over the brim of a receptacle. In this case, the river flowed over its banks.

Question 10:

He is known for his ____ nature; he always donates a significant portion of his income to charity.

  1. (a) miserly
  2. (b) extravagant
  3. (c) philanthropic
  4. (d) selfish

Correct Answer: (c) philanthropic

Explanation: ‘Philanthropic’ means seeking to promote the welfare of others, especially by the generous donation of money to good causes. This describes the person’s charitable nature.

Question 11:

The ancient civilization left behind ____ ruins that still fascinate archaeologists today.

  1. (a) magnificent
  2. (b) mundane
  3. (c) minuscule
  4. (d) malicious

Correct Answer: (a) magnificent

Explanation: ‘Magnificent’ means impressively beautiful, elaborate, or extravagant. It is a suitable adjective for fascinating ancient ruins.

Question 12:

The manager had to ____ the meeting because a key member was unable to attend.

  1. (a) proceed
  2. (b) propose
  3. (c) postpone
  4. (d) prepare

Correct Answer: (c) postpone

Explanation: To ‘postpone’ means to arrange for something to take place at a time later than that first scheduled. This is the logical action when a key person is absent.

Question 13:

Her performance in the play was so ____ that the audience gave her a standing ovation.

  1. (a) mediocre
  2. (b) captivating
  3. (c) forgettable
  4. (d) awful

Correct Answer: (b) captivating

Explanation: ‘Captivating’ means capable of attracting and holding interest; charming. A standing ovation suggests a highly impressive performance.

Question 14:

It is ____ that you complete the assignment by the deadline if you want to get a good grade.

  1. (a) imperative
  2. (b) optional
  3. (c) trivial
  4. (d) suggestive

Correct Answer: (a) imperative

Explanation: ‘Imperative’ means of vital importance; crucial. This emphasizes the necessity of meeting the deadline for a good grade.

Question 15:

The lawyer presented ____ evidence to support her client’s innocence, leaving the jury with no doubt.

  1. (a) ambiguous
  2. (b) irrelevant
  3. (c) compelling
  4. (d) questionable

Correct Answer: (c) compelling

Explanation: ‘Compelling’ evidence is so strong and persuasive that it convinces people. This fits the context of leaving the jury with no doubt.

Question 16:

The two countries decided to sign a treaty to ____ peace and cooperation.

  1. (a) promote
  2. (b) provoke
  3. (c) prohibit
  4. (d) protest

Correct Answer: (a) promote

Explanation: To ‘promote’ means to support or actively encourage. A peace treaty is signed to promote peace.

Question 17:

The city’s infrastructure could not ____ with the rapid increase in population.

  1. (a) cope
  2. (b) compete
  3. (c) comply
  4. (d) conceal

Correct Answer: (a) cope

Explanation: The phrasal verb ‘cope with’ means to deal effectively with something difficult. This correctly describes the infrastructure’s struggle.

Question 18:

The athlete’s ____ dedication to his training paid off when he won the gold medal.

  1. (a) wavering
  2. (b) unwavering
  3. (c) weak
  4. (d) casual

Correct Answer: (b) unwavering

Explanation: ‘Unwavering’ means steady or resolute; not wavering. This describes a strong and consistent dedication that leads to success.

Question 19:

Many species are on the ____ of extinction due to deforestation and climate change.

  1. (a) edge
  2. (b) verge
  3. (c) side
  4. (d) border

Correct Answer: (b) verge

Explanation: The idiom ‘on the verge of’ means at the point when something is about to happen or is very likely to happen. It is commonly used with ‘extinction’.

Question 20:

The new CEO’s ____ leadership transformed the failing company into a profitable one.

  1. (a) visionary
  2. (b) invisible
  3. (c) passive
  4. (d) reactionary

Correct Answer: (a) visionary

Explanation: ‘Visionary’ leadership involves thinking about or planning the future with imagination or wisdom. This quality is needed to transform a failing company.

Question 21:

The students were asked to ____ from cheating during the examination.

  1. (a) refrain
  2. (b) prevent
  3. (c) restrain
  4. (d) reduce

Correct Answer: (a) refrain

Explanation: ‘Refrain from’ is a phrasal verb that means to stop oneself from doing something. It is the most appropriate choice in this formal context.

Question 22:

The documentary provided a ____ account of the events leading up to the war.

  1. (a) fictional
  2. (b) biased
  3. (c) comprehensive
  4. (d) brief

Correct Answer: (c) comprehensive

Explanation: ‘Comprehensive’ means complete and including everything that is necessary. A good documentary aims to provide a full picture of events.

Question 23:

Her ____ to adapt to new situations makes her a valuable member of the team.

  1. (a) reluctance
  2. (b) inability
  3. (c) willingness
  4. (d) resistance

Correct Answer: (c) willingness

Explanation: ‘Willingness’ is the quality of being prepared to do something. Being willing to adapt is a positive trait for a team member.

Question 24:

The old sailor told us ____ tales of his adventures on the high seas.

  1. (a) gripping
  2. (b) boring
  3. (c) simple
  4. (d) common

Correct Answer: (a) gripping

Explanation: ‘Gripping’ means firmly holding the attention or interest; exciting. Tales of adventure are typically described as gripping.

Question 25:

The negotiations between the two parties reached a ____, with neither side willing to compromise.

  1. (a) conclusion
  2. (b) stalemate
  3. (c) breakthrough
  4. (d) agreement

Correct Answer: (b) stalemate

Explanation: A ‘stalemate’ is a situation in which further action or progress by opposing or competing parties seems impossible. This fits the description of the negotiations.

Question 26:

The doctor advised him to ____ his intake of sugary drinks to improve his health.

  1. (a) curtail
  2. (b) expand
  3. (c) prolong
  4. (d) maintain

Correct Answer: (a) curtail

Explanation: To ‘curtail’ means to reduce or limit something. This is the appropriate medical advice for an unhealthy habit.

Question 27:

The mountain peak was ____ in mist, making it impossible to see the view.

  1. (a) revealed
  2. (b) cleared
  3. (c) shrouded
  4. (d) opened

Correct Answer: (c) shrouded

Explanation: To be ‘shrouded’ in something means to be covered or enveloped so as to conceal from view. It is often used with ‘mist’ or ‘mystery’.

Question 28:

The company’s success can be ____ to its innovative marketing strategies.

  1. (a) distributed
  2. (b) attributed
  3. (c) contributed
  4. (d) executed

Correct Answer: (b) attributed

Explanation: ‘Attributed to’ means to regard something as being caused by someone or something. It is used to assign a cause or reason for an outcome.

Question 29:

Despite the initial skepticism, the project turned out to be a ____ success.

  1. (a) resounding
  2. (b) minor
  3. (c) questionable
  4. (d) partial

Correct Answer: (a) resounding

Explanation: ‘Resounding’ is used to describe a success that is very great or definite. The word ‘despite’ suggests a contrast, so a big success is implied.

Question 30:

The government’s new policy is intended to ____ economic growth.

  1. (a) stimulate
  2. (b) stifle
  3. (c) simulate
  4. (d) humiliate

Correct Answer: (a) stimulate

Explanation: To ‘stimulate’ means to encourage something to grow, develop, or become more active. This is the common goal of economic policies.

Question 31:

He was ____ with a difficult choice: to stay with his family or to accept the job offer abroad.

  1. (a) faced
  2. (b) fronted
  3. (c) seen
  4. (d) given

Correct Answer: (a) faced

Explanation: The expression ‘faced with a difficult choice’ means to be confronted with a dilemma. This is the correct idiomatic usage.

Question 32:

The ancient text was written in a ____ that no one has been able to decipher yet.

  1. (a) script
  2. (b) scribble
  3. (c) sketch
  4. (d) story

Correct Answer: (a) script

Explanation: A ‘script’ is a system of writing. The context of an ancient, undeciphered text points to a specific form of writing.

Question 33:

The speaker’s ____ arguments convinced even his staunchest opponents.

  1. (a) feeble
  2. (b) fragile
  3. (c) cogent
  4. (d) confusing

Correct Answer: (c) cogent

Explanation: ‘Cogent’ means clear, logical, and convincing. This word perfectly describes arguments that can convince opponents.

Question 34:

After the storm, the villagers worked together to ____ the damage to their homes.

  1. (a) repair
  2. (b) impair
  3. (c) despair
  4. (d) prepare

Correct Answer: (a) repair

Explanation: To ‘repair’ damage means to fix it. This is the logical action to take after a storm damages homes.

Question 35:

The museum has a vast ____ of artifacts from different historical periods.

  1. (a) selection
  2. (b) correction
  3. (c) collection
  4. (d) connection

Correct Answer: (c) collection

Explanation: A ‘collection’ is a group of things that have been gathered together. Museums have collections of artifacts.

Question 36:

The teacher’s clear explanations helped to ____ the complex topic for the students.

  1. (a) obscure
  2. (b) mystify
  3. (c) clarify
  4. (d) complicate

Correct Answer: (c) clarify

Explanation: To ‘clarify’ means to make something less confusing and more comprehensible. This is the goal of a good explanation.

Question 37:

He is ____ to making rash decisions without thinking about the consequences.

  1. (a) prone
  2. (b) immune
  3. (c) supine
  4. (d) resistant

Correct Answer: (a) prone

Explanation: To be ‘prone to’ something means to be likely to suffer from, do, or experience something regrettable or unwelcome.

Question 38:

The rapid ____ of technology has changed the way we live and work.

  1. (a) advancement
  2. (b) resistance
  3. (c) decline
  4. (d) stagnation

Correct Answer: (a) advancement

Explanation: ‘Advancement’ means the process of promoting a cause or plan. In the context of technology, it means progress and development.

Question 39:

The police are investigating the ____ circumstances surrounding the man’s death.

  1. (a) clear
  2. (b) normal
  3. (c) suspicious
  4. (d) obvious

Correct Answer: (c) suspicious

Explanation: ‘Suspicious’ circumstances are those that make you feel that something illegal or dishonest is happening. This warrants a police investigation.

Question 40:

You must ____ to the rules of the game if you want to participate.

  1. (a) adhere
  2. (b) ignore
  3. (c) defy
  4. (d) change

Correct Answer: (a) adhere

Explanation: To ‘adhere to’ rules means to follow them strictly. This is a requirement for participation.

Question 41:

The concert was a ____ event, with thousands of fans flocking to see their favorite band.

  1. (a) small
  2. (b) private
  3. (c) massive
  4. (d) quiet

Correct Answer: (c) massive

Explanation: ‘Massive’ means exceptionally large. The phrase ‘thousands of fans’ indicates that the event was very large in scale.

Question 42:

The novel gives a ____ portrayal of life in the 19th century.

  1. (a) vivid
  2. (b) vague
  3. (c) modern
  4. (d) false

Correct Answer: (a) vivid

Explanation: ‘Vivid’ means producing powerful feelings or strong, clear images in the mind. A good novel provides a vivid portrayal of its setting.

Question 43:

The company is trying to ____ its operations to reduce costs.

  1. (a) expand
  2. (b) streamline
  3. (c) complicate
  4. (d) diversify

Correct Answer: (b) streamline

Explanation: To ‘streamline’ a system or organization means to make it more efficient and effective by using simpler working methods, which often leads to reduced costs.

Question 44:

The politician’s speech was full of empty ____ and failed to address the real issues.

  1. (a) facts
  2. (b) promises
  3. (c) rhetoric
  4. (d) data

Correct Answer: (c) rhetoric

Explanation: ‘Rhetoric’ is language designed to have a persuasive or impressive effect on its audience, but which is often regarded as lacking in sincerity or meaningful content. ‘Empty rhetoric’ is a common phrase.

Question 45:

The evidence against the suspect was so ____ that he had no choice but to confess.

  1. (a) weak
  2. (b) circumstantial
  3. (c) overwhelming
  4. (d) flimsy

Correct Answer: (c) overwhelming

Explanation: ‘Overwhelming’ means very great in amount or effect. Overwhelming evidence leaves no room for doubt and forces a confession.

Question 46:

The two brothers have very ____ personalities; one is outgoing, while the other is shy.

  1. (a) similar
  2. (b) identical
  3. (c) contrasting
  4. (d) compatible

Correct Answer: (c) contrasting

Explanation: ‘Contrasting’ means differing strikingly. The description of one brother as outgoing and the other as shy highlights a clear contrast.

Question 47:

It is important to ____ a healthy work-life balance to avoid burnout.

  1. (a) neglect
  2. (b) maintain
  3. (c) disrupt
  4. (d) destroy

Correct Answer: (b) maintain

Explanation: To ‘maintain’ something means to cause or enable a condition or state to continue. One strives to maintain a healthy balance.

Question 48:

The old bridge was not strong enough to ____ the weight of the heavy truck.

  1. (a) withstand
  2. (b) surrender
  3. (c) provide
  4. (d) allow

Correct Answer: (a) withstand

Explanation: To ‘withstand’ means to remain undamaged or unaffected by; resist. It is the correct word for bearing a weight or force.

Question 49:

The team’s morale was very low after a ____ of defeats.

  1. (a) series
  2. (b) single
  3. (c) victory
  4. (d) celebration

Correct Answer: (a) series

Explanation: A ‘series’ of events is a number of similar or related events or things, one following another. Low morale would result from a series of defeats.

Question 50:

The charity works to ____ the suffering of people affected by natural disasters.

  1. (a) increase
  2. (b) cause
  3. (c) alleviate
  4. (d) ignore

Correct Answer: (c) alleviate

Explanation: To ‘alleviate’ suffering means to make it less severe. This is the primary goal of charitable work in disaster zones.

Question 51:

He made a ____ attempt to apologize, but it was clear he didn’t mean it.

  1. (a) sincere
  2. (b) wholehearted
  3. (c) half-hearted
  4. (d) genuine

Correct Answer: (c) half-hearted

Explanation: ‘Half-hearted’ means without enthusiasm or energy. The context “it was clear he didn’t mean it” points to an insincere apology.

Question 52:

The government’s plan to build a new highway ____ strong opposition from environmental groups.

  1. (a) met with
  2. (b) gave up
  3. (c) looked for
  4. (d) took over

Correct Answer: (a) met with

Explanation: The phrasal verb ‘met with’ is used to indicate a reaction or reception to something. In this case, the plan received opposition.

Question 53:

The chef is renowned for his ability to ____ traditional dishes with a modern twist.

  1. (a) destroy
  2. (b) infuse
  3. (c) remove
  4. (d) separate

Correct Answer: (b) infuse

Explanation: To ‘infuse’ something with a quality means to fill it with that quality. In a culinary context, it means to blend flavors or styles.

Question 54:

The athlete was disqualified from the race for a ____ violation of the rules.

  1. (a) minor
  2. (b) trivial
  3. (c) blatant
  4. (d) subtle

Correct Answer: (c) blatant

Explanation: ‘Blatant’ means done openly and unashamedly. A blatant violation is a very obvious one, which would likely lead to disqualification.

Question 55:

It is difficult to ____ the exact impact of the new policy at this early stage.

  1. (a) gauge
  2. (b) guess
  3. (c) ignore
  4. (d) create

Correct Answer: (a) gauge

Explanation: To ‘gauge’ means to estimate or determine the magnitude, amount, or volume of. It’s about measuring or assessing an impact.

Question 56:

The company had to ____ several employees due to financial difficulties.

  1. (a) promote
  2. (b) hire
  3. (c) lay off
  4. (d) praise

Correct Answer: (c) lay off

Explanation: To ‘lay off’ employees means to discharge them temporarily or permanently because of a shortage of work or economic downturn.

Question 57:

His ____ behavior at the party embarrassed everyone.

  1. (a) exemplary
  2. (b) boorish
  3. (c) graceful
  4. (d) polite

Correct Answer: (b) boorish

Explanation: ‘Boorish’ means rough and bad-mannered; coarse. Such behavior would naturally cause embarrassment.

Question 58:

The new evidence could ____ him from all charges.

  1. (a) convict
  2. (b) incriminate
  3. (c) exonerate
  4. (d) accuse

Correct Answer: (c) exonerate

Explanation: To ‘exonerate’ someone means to absolve them from blame for a fault or wrongdoing, especially after due consideration of the case.

Question 59:

The professor’s lectures were always ____ and full of interesting anecdotes.

  1. (a) monotonous
  2. (b) dull
  3. (c) stimulating
  4. (d) tedious

Correct Answer: (c) stimulating

Explanation: ‘Stimulating’ means encouraging or arousing interest or enthusiasm. This aligns with the description of being full of interesting anecdotes.

Question 60:

The earthquake caused ____ damage to the city’s infrastructure.

  1. (a) negligible
  2. (b) minimal
  3. (c) extensive
  4. (d) superficial

Correct Answer: (c) extensive

Explanation: ‘Extensive’ damage means covering a large area; great in amount. Earthquakes are known to cause widespread damage.

Question 61:

It is ____ to wear a seatbelt while driving.

  1. (a) optional
  2. (b) voluntary
  3. (c) compulsory
  4. (d) advisable

Correct Answer: (c) compulsory

Explanation: ‘Compulsory’ means required by law or a rule; obligatory. Wearing a seatbelt is a legal requirement in most places.

Question 62:

The two companies decided to ____ and form a single, larger corporation.

  1. (a) separate
  2. (b) divide
  3. (c) merge
  4. (d) conflict

Correct Answer: (c) merge

Explanation: To ‘merge’ means to combine or cause to combine to form a single entity. This is the correct business term for what is described.

Question 63:

The ancient mariner’s story was so ____ that we listened for hours, completely spellbound.

  1. (a) mundane
  2. (b) enthralling
  3. (c) repetitive
  4. (d) confusing

Correct Answer: (b) enthralling

Explanation: ‘Enthralling’ means capturing and holding one’s attention; fascinating. The word ‘spellbound’ confirms this meaning.

Question 64:

We must find a ____ solution to the problem of plastic pollution.

  1. (a) temporary
  2. (b) sustainable
  3. (c) superficial
  4. (d) partial

Correct Answer: (b) sustainable

Explanation: A ‘sustainable’ solution is one that can be maintained over a long period without causing further damage, especially to the environment. This is the goal for issues like pollution.

Question 65:

The old photograph ____ memories of his childhood.

  1. (a) erased
  2. (b) created
  3. (c) evoked
  4. (d) suppressed

Correct Answer: (c) evoked

Explanation: To ‘evoke’ means to bring a feeling, memory, or image into the mind. Photographs often evoke memories.

Question 66:

The witness’s testimony was found to be ____ with the physical evidence.

  1. (a) inconsistent
  2. (b) consistent
  3. (c) irrelevant
  4. (d) contrary

Correct Answer: (b) consistent

Explanation: ‘Consistent with’ means in agreement with. In a legal context, testimony that matches physical evidence is considered strong.

Question 67:

The ____ of the new software was a challenging but rewarding process.

  1. (a) destruction
  2. (b) implementation
  3. (c) rejection
  4. (d) delay

Correct Answer: (b) implementation

Explanation: ‘Implementation’ is the process of putting a decision or plan into effect. It is the correct term for deploying new software.

Question 68:

He is a very ____ worker, always paying close attention to every detail.

  1. (a) careless
  2. (b) meticulous
  3. (c) lazy
  4. (d) impulsive

Correct Answer: (b) meticulous

Explanation: ‘Meticulous’ means showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise. This perfectly matches the description.

Question 69:

The army was able to ____ the enemy’s attack and defend the city.

  1. (a) invite
  2. (b) encourage
  3. (c) repel
  4. (d) accept

Correct Answer: (c) repel

Explanation: To ‘repel’ an attack means to drive or force it back or away. This is the function of a defending army.

Question 70:

The small village is ____ in a beautiful valley, surrounded by mountains.

  1. (a) exposed
  2. (b) hidden
  3. (c) nestled
  4. (d) abandoned

Correct Answer: (c) nestled

Explanation: To ‘nestle’ means to settle or lie in a comfortable, sheltered position. It beautifully describes a village in a valley.

Question 71:

The artist’s work is a ____ of different styles and techniques.

  1. (a) separation
  2. (b) fusion
  3. (c) rejection
  4. (d) copy

Correct Answer: (b) fusion

Explanation: ‘Fusion’ is the process or result of joining two or more things together to form a single entity. It’s often used to describe a blend of artistic styles.

Question 72:

The historical records of that era are ____ and incomplete, making research difficult.

  1. (a) complete
  2. (b) detailed
  3. (c) abundant
  4. (d) fragmented

Correct Answer: (d) fragmented

Explanation: ‘Fragmented’ means consisting of small, separate, or incomplete parts. This word fits the description of incomplete records that make research hard.

Question 73:

The team’s victory was a testament to their ____ and hard work.

  1. (a) laziness
  2. (b) apathy
  3. (c) perseverance
  4. (d) indifference

Correct Answer: (c) perseverance

Explanation: ‘Perseverance’ is persistence in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success. It is a key ingredient for victory.

Question 74:

The new law aims to ____ discrimination based on race and gender.

  1. (a) promote
  2. (b) establish
  3. (c) eradicate
  4. (d) encourage

Correct Answer: (c) eradicate

Explanation: To ‘eradicate’ something means to destroy it completely; put an end to it. This is the goal of anti-discrimination laws.

Question 75:

The garden was ____ with a variety of colorful flowers.

  1. (a) empty
  2. (b) adorned
  3. (c) plain
  4. (d) sparse

Correct Answer: (b) adorned

Explanation: To ‘adorn’ means to make more beautiful or attractive. A garden adorned with flowers is a common and poetic description.

Question 76:

Her ____ knowledge of the subject was impressive.

  1. (a) superficial
  2. (b) encyclopedic
  3. (c) limited
  4. (d) basic

Correct Answer: (b) encyclopedic

Explanation: ‘Encyclopedic’ knowledge is very extensive and covers a wide range of information, like an encyclopedia. ‘Impressive’ points to this level of knowledge.

Question 77:

The politician had to ____ his statement after it caused a public outcry.

  1. (a) repeat
  2. (b) emphasize
  3. (c) retract
  4. (d) confirm

Correct Answer: (c) retract

Explanation: To ‘retract’ a statement means to withdraw it as untrue or unjustified. This is often done in response to public pressure or outcry.

Question 78:

The eerie silence of the forest was ____ by the sudden hoot of an owl.

  1. (a) maintained
  2. (b) punctured
  3. (c) continued
  4. (d) enhanced

Correct Answer: (b) punctured

Explanation: ‘Punctured’ is used metaphorically here to mean suddenly interrupted or broken. A sudden sound can ‘puncture’ a silence.

Question 79:

The old castle, with its dark history, has an ____ of mystery and gloom.

  1. (a) aura
  2. (b) area
  3. (c) idea
  4. (d) open

Correct Answer: (a) aura

Explanation: An ‘aura’ is the distinctive atmosphere or quality that seems to surround and be generated by a person, thing, or place.

Question 80:

The ____ of the problem is a lack of communication between departments.

  1. (a) branch
  2. (b) surface
  3. (c) crux
  4. (d) side

Correct Answer: (c) crux

Explanation: The ‘crux’ of a problem is the most important or decisive point of an issue. It refers to the core of the matter.

Question 81:

The scientist’s ____ discovery changed the course of medicine.

  1. (a) insignificant
  2. (b) routine
  3. (c) groundbreaking
  4. (d) expected

Correct Answer: (c) groundbreaking

Explanation: ‘Groundbreaking’ means innovative and pioneering. A discovery that changes the course of a field is by definition groundbreaking.

Question 82:

Despite her wealth, she lived a very ____ and simple life.

  1. (a) extravagant
  2. (b) lavish
  3. (c) frugal
  4. (d) ostentatious

Correct Answer: (c) frugal

Explanation: ‘Frugal’ means sparing or economical with regard to money or food. It contrasts with wealth and aligns with a simple life.

Question 83:

The diplomat was skilled in ____ delicate negotiations.

  1. (a) handling
  2. (b) breaking
  3. (c) avoiding
  4. (d) spoiling

Correct Answer: (a) handling

Explanation: To ‘handle’ a situation means to manage or deal with it. A skilled diplomat is adept at handling delicate talks.

Question 84:

The old book was filled with ____ illustrations and handwritten notes.

  1. (a) modern
  2. (b) quaint
  3. (c) digital
  4. (d) plain

Correct Answer: (b) quaint

Explanation: ‘Quaint’ means attractively unusual or old-fashioned. It is a perfect adjective for illustrations in an old book.

Question 85:

The community came together to ____ the park after it was vandalized.

  1. (a) neglect
  2. (b) abandon
  3. (c) restore
  4. (d) damage

Correct Answer: (c) restore

Explanation: To ‘restore’ something means to bring it back to its original condition. This is the logical action after vandalism.

Question 86:

The speech was intended to ____ the troops before the battle.

  1. (a) demoralize
  2. (b) galvanize
  3. (c) confuse
  4. (d) scatter

Correct Answer: (b) galvanize

Explanation: To ‘galvanize’ means to shock or excite someone into taking action. A pre-battle speech is meant to inspire and motivate troops.

Question 87:

The ____ of a new leader brought fresh hope to the country.

  1. (a) advent
  2. (b) departure
  3. (c) end
  4. (d) decline

Correct Answer: (a) advent

Explanation: ‘Advent’ means the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event. It fits the context of a new leader bringing hope.

Question 88:

He has a ____ for getting into trouble, even when he tries to be good.

  1. (a) distaste
  2. (b) talent
  3. (c) knack
  4. (d) aversion

Correct Answer: (c) knack

Explanation: A ‘knack’ is an acquired or natural skill at performing a task. It is often used informally to describe a tendency to do something, as in ‘a knack for trouble’.

Question 89:

The quiet librarian was, ____, an adventurous world traveler.

  1. (a) predictably
  2. (b) obviously
  3. (c) fittingly
  4. (d) paradoxically

Correct Answer: (d) paradoxically

Explanation: ‘Paradoxically’ means in a way that is seemingly absurd or self-contradictory. The idea of a quiet librarian being an adventurer is a paradox.

Question 90:

The city is a ____ pot of different cultures and traditions.

  1. (a) melting
  2. (b) boiling
  3. (c) freezing
  4. (d) cooking

Correct Answer: (a) melting

Explanation: The term ‘melting pot’ is a well-known metaphor for a place where different peoples, styles, theories, etc., are mixed together.

Question 91:

After weeks of research, she finally had a ____ and solved the puzzle.

  1. (a) breakdown
  2. (b) setback
  3. (c) breakthrough
  4. (d) fallout

Correct Answer: (c) breakthrough

Explanation: A ‘breakthrough’ is a sudden, dramatic, and important discovery or development. It is the moment of solving a difficult problem.

Question 92:

His argument was ____ and based on emotions rather than facts.

  1. (a) logical
  2. (b) rational
  3. (c) sound
  4. (d) specious

Correct Answer: (d) specious

Explanation: ‘Specious’ means superficially plausible, but actually wrong. An argument based on emotion rather than fact is often specious.

Question 93:

The company’s new ____ aims to capture a younger market.

  1. (a) history
  2. (b) strategy
  3. (c) memory
  4. (d) artifact

Correct Answer: (b) strategy

Explanation: A ‘strategy’ is a plan of action designed to achieve a long-term or overall aim. Capturing a new market requires a specific strategy.

Question 94:

The island is only ____ by boat.

  1. (a) accessible
  2. (b) acceptable
  3. (c) avoidable
  4. (d) accountable

Correct Answer: (a) accessible

Explanation: ‘Accessible’ means able to be reached or entered. If a boat is the only way to get there, the island is accessible by boat.

Question 95:

The president’s speech was meant to ____ the nation during a time of crisis.

  1. (a) divide
  2. (b) agitate
  3. (c) reassure
  4. (d) frighten

Correct Answer: (c) reassure

Explanation: To ‘reassure’ means to say or do something to remove the doubts and fears of someone. This is a key role of a leader in a crisis.

Question 96:

His ____ for detail makes him an excellent editor.

  1. (a) eye
  2. (b) ear
  3. (c) nose
  4. (d) hand

Correct Answer: (a) eye

Explanation: The idiom ‘an eye for detail’ means the ability to notice small but important things that other people might not see. This is a crucial skill for an editor.

Question 97:

The negotiations are at a ____ stage, and any mistake could be costly.

  1. (a) final
  2. (b) initial
  3. (c) crucial
  4. (d) easy

Correct Answer: (c) crucial

Explanation: ‘Crucial’ means decisive or critical, especially in the success or failure of something. The context “any mistake could be costly” highlights its importance.

Question 98:

The old traditions are slowly ____ as the younger generation adopts new customs.

  1. (a) growing
  2. (b) reviving
  3. (c) fading away
  4. (d) strengthening

Correct Answer: (c) fading away

Explanation: The phrasal verb ‘fading away’ means to gradually disappear. This correctly describes the decline of old traditions when new customs are adopted.

Question 99:

The court’s ruling will set a legal ____ for similar cases in the future.

  1. (a) example
  2. (b) precedent
  3. (c) warning
  4. (d) notice

Correct Answer: (b) precedent

Explanation: A ‘precedent’ is an earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances, especially in a legal context.

Question 100:

She felt a deep sense of ____ after achieving her lifelong dream.

  1. (a) regret
  2. (b) anxiety
  3. (c) fulfillment
  4. (d) disappointment

Correct Answer: (c) fulfillment

Explanation: ‘Fulfillment’ is the feeling of satisfaction or happiness as a result of fully developing one’s abilities or character. It’s the emotion associated with achieving a major goal.

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