SSC CGL 12 September 2025 · Shift 3 · English Comprehension — questions with answers

76

Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word: Vague

A.Stable
B.Precise
C.Nebulous
D.Obvious

Solution

Synonym — VAGUE 'Vague' means unclear, hazy or ill-defined. 'Nebulous' carries exactly this sense of being indistinct and cloudy. Precise and obvious are opposites — option (c).

77

Select the most appropriate antonym of the word given in brackets to complete the sentence. He had very little formal education and remained largely ____ (erudite) despite years of experience.

A.Intellectual
B.Uninformed
C.Educated
D.Scholarly

Solution

Antonym in blank — erudite 'Erudite' means having great knowledge or learning. Its antonym is 'uninformed' — lacking knowledge or education — which also fits someone with little formal education. Intellectual, educated and scholarly are all synonyms of erudite — option (b).

78

Select the most appropriate meaning of the highlighted idiom in the given sentence. The manager flew off the handle when he discovered that the report had been submitted with serious errors.

A.React with sudden and uncontrolled anger
B.Leave the place without being noticed
C.Disappear rapidly from a situation
D.Deal with the problem in a clever way

Solution

Idiom — flew off the handle 'To fly off the handle' means to lose one's temper suddenly. The manager burst into sudden, uncontrolled anger on seeing the errors. Hence option (a).

79

Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word. Panegyric

A.Homage
B.Encomium
C.Praise
D.Castigation

Solution

Antonym — PANEGYRIC A 'panegyric' is a formal public speech or writing praising someone highly. 'Castigation' — severe criticism or reprimand — is its opposite. Homage, encomium and praise are all synonyms of panegyric — option (d).

80

Spot the incorrect spelling.

A.Trinket
B.Trissomy
C.Trisomic
D.Trifold

Solution

Incorrect spelling The correct spelling is 'trisomy' — with a single 's'. 'Trissomy' is therefore misspelt. Trinket, trisomic and trifold are all correctly spelt — option (b).

81

Choose the correct one-word substitute for: The state of being unaware or unconscious of what is happening around one.

A.Highjack
B.Oblivion
C.Interregnum
D.Desuetude

Solution

One-word substitute — oblivion The state of being unaware or unconscious of one’s surroundings is oblivion. 'Interregnum' is a gap between reigns and 'desuetude' means disuse. Hence option (b).

82

Select the correct option: So intricate ____ the machinery that even experts took hours to assemble it.

A.is
B.was
C.has
D.were

Solution

Inversion — so + adjective Beginning with 'So + adjective' inverts the verb before the subject. The sentence is in the past ('took hours'), and 'machinery' is singular. 'So intricate was the machinery …' — option (b).

83

Select the correct option: His explanation was ____ than confusing; it was a tangled mess of ideas.

A.less
B.more
C.other
D.rather

Solution

Comparative — more than The second clause intensifies: the explanation went beyond mere confusion. 'More than confusing' expresses this escalation. Hence option (b).

84

Select the correct option: The measures, though seemingly justified by fiscal constraints, were in reality a masked effort to ____ opposition under the guise of austerity.

A.quell
B.grow
C.repel
D.impulse

Solution

Vocabulary — quell The blank needs a verb meaning to suppress or crush. 'Quell' — to put down or silence (opposition, dissent) — fits perfectly. 'Grow' is opposite in sense and 'impulse' is a noun — option (a).

85

Find the part of the sentence that contains an error: The committee's objectives included (1)/ increasing membership, improving communication channels, and (2)/ to foster a sense of community (3)/ among its diverse members. (4)

A.(1)
B.(2)
C.(3)
D.(4)

Solution

Error — parallelism The list uses gerunds: 'increasing' and 'improving'. Part (3) breaks the parallel structure with the infinitive 'to foster' — it should be 'fostering'. Hence the error is in part (3) — option (c).

86

Find the part of the sentence that contains an error: The unique challenges of the project, including its remote location (1)/ and the unpredictable weather patterns, (2)/ makes its successful completion (3)/ a testament to the team's resilience. (4)

A.(1)
B.(2)
C.(3)
D.(4)

Solution

Error — subject–verb The subject is 'challenges' — plural. Part (3) uses the singular 'makes'; it should be 'make its successful completion'. Hence the error is in part (3) — option (c).

87

Change the following from active to passive: Why did the committee reject the proposed amendments?

A.Why were the proposed amendments rejected by the committee?
B.Why have the proposed amendments been rejected by the committee?
C.Why are the proposed amendments being rejected by the committee?
D.Why did the proposed amendments be rejected by the committee?

Solution

Voice — wh-question The active question is in the past simple ('did … reject'). Its passive keeps the tense: 'were + past participle', with the question word retained. 'Why were the proposed amendments rejected by the committee?' — option (a).

88

Select the option that contains the homonym of the highlighted word. A thick bailey shielded the villagers from harm.

A.The stone bailey stood firm against the attack.
B.Guards patrolled the perimeter of the outer bailey.
C.Horses rested quietly within the stone bailey.
D.The knights gathered in the castle bailey.

Solution

Homonym — bailey In the given sentence, 'bailey' means the defensive outer wall of a castle — and options (a), (b) and (d) use the same wall sense. In option (c), 'bailey' means the open courtyard area enclosed within the castle walls — a different sense of the word. Hence option (c).

89

Convert the sentence provided below from its passive voice structure to an active voice structure: It is believed that the ancient scrolls were hidden by the monks in a secret chamber.

A.The monks hid the ancient scrolls in a secret chamber.
B.The monks are believed to have hidden the ancient scrolls in a secret chamber.
C.The ancient scrolls were hiding the monks in a secret chamber.
D.In a secret chamber, the monks had hidden the ancient scrolls.

Solution

Passive → active — it is believed The sentence has two passive parts: 'it is believed' and 'were hidden'. The standard conversion keeps the belief and activates the doer: 'The monks are believed to have hidden …'. Option (a) drops the belief entirely and (c) reverses the meaning — hence option (b).

90

Directions (Qs. 90-94): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. The symbiotic relationship between flowering plants and their pollinators is a cornerstone of global biodiversity and ecosystem stability. Pollinators, primarily insects like bees, butterflies, and moths, but also birds and bats, play a crucial role in the reproduction of over 80% of the world's flowering plants, including many food crops essential for human sustenance. As these animals visit flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, they inadvertently transfer pollen grains from one flower to another, enabling fertilization. This intricate dance has evolved over millions of years, leading to highly specialized adaptations in both plants and pollinators. For instance, some flowers have evolved specific shapes, colors, or scents to attract particular pollinators, while pollinators have developed specialized mouthparts or behaviors to access the rewards offered by these flowers. However, this vital relationship is under severe threat from various anthropogenic factors. Habitat loss due to urbanization and agriculture, pesticide use (especially neonicotinoids), climate change altering bloom times, and the spread of diseases and invasive species are collectively contributing to a dramatic decline in pollinator populations worldwide. The consequences of this decline are far-reaching. Beyond the ecological impact on wild plant reproduction, there are significant economic implications for agriculture. Many fruits, vegetables, and nuts rely heavily on animal pollination, and a reduction in pollinator services can lead to lower yields, reduced quality, and increased food costs. Scientists are actively researching solutions, from promoting pollinator-friendly farming practices and creating urban pollinator gardens to developing less harmful pest management strategies and conserving natural habitats. Understanding and protecting these unsung heroes of our ecosystems is paramount for food security and the health of our planet.

What is the central role of pollinators in ecosystems, as described in the passage?

A.To decompose organic matter.
B.To facilitate plant reproduction.
C.To regulate water cycles.
D.To control pest populations.

Solution

RC — central role The passage says pollinators play a crucial role in the reproduction of over 80% of flowering plants. By transferring pollen between flowers, they enable fertilization. Hence option (b).

91

Directions (Qs. 90-94): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. The symbiotic relationship between flowering plants and their pollinators is a cornerstone of global biodiversity and ecosystem stability. Pollinators, primarily insects like bees, butterflies, and moths, but also birds and bats, play a crucial role in the reproduction of over 80% of the world's flowering plants, including many food crops essential for human sustenance. As these animals visit flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, they inadvertently transfer pollen grains from one flower to another, enabling fertilization. This intricate dance has evolved over millions of years, leading to highly specialized adaptations in both plants and pollinators. For instance, some flowers have evolved specific shapes, colors, or scents to attract particular pollinators, while pollinators have developed specialized mouthparts or behaviors to access the rewards offered by these flowers. However, this vital relationship is under severe threat from various anthropogenic factors. Habitat loss due to urbanization and agriculture, pesticide use (especially neonicotinoids), climate change altering bloom times, and the spread of diseases and invasive species are collectively contributing to a dramatic decline in pollinator populations worldwide. The consequences of this decline are far-reaching. Beyond the ecological impact on wild plant reproduction, there are significant economic implications for agriculture. Many fruits, vegetables, and nuts rely heavily on animal pollination, and a reduction in pollinator services can lead to lower yields, reduced quality, and increased food costs. Scientists are actively researching solutions, from promoting pollinator-friendly farming practices and creating urban pollinator gardens to developing less harmful pest management strategies and conserving natural habitats. Understanding and protecting these unsung heroes of our ecosystems is paramount for food security and the health of our planet.

According to the passage, what type of adaptations have plants developed to attract pollinators?

A.Root structures
B.Specific shapes, colors, or scents
C.Photosynthetic efficiency
D.Drought resistance

Solution

RC — plant adaptations The passage cites specialized adaptations evolved over millions of years. Flowers have developed specific shapes, colours or scents to attract particular pollinators. Hence option (b).

92

Directions (Qs. 90-94): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. The symbiotic relationship between flowering plants and their pollinators is a cornerstone of global biodiversity and ecosystem stability. Pollinators, primarily insects like bees, butterflies, and moths, but also birds and bats, play a crucial role in the reproduction of over 80% of the world's flowering plants, including many food crops essential for human sustenance. As these animals visit flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, they inadvertently transfer pollen grains from one flower to another, enabling fertilization. This intricate dance has evolved over millions of years, leading to highly specialized adaptations in both plants and pollinators. For instance, some flowers have evolved specific shapes, colors, or scents to attract particular pollinators, while pollinators have developed specialized mouthparts or behaviors to access the rewards offered by these flowers. However, this vital relationship is under severe threat from various anthropogenic factors. Habitat loss due to urbanization and agriculture, pesticide use (especially neonicotinoids), climate change altering bloom times, and the spread of diseases and invasive species are collectively contributing to a dramatic decline in pollinator populations worldwide. The consequences of this decline are far-reaching. Beyond the ecological impact on wild plant reproduction, there are significant economic implications for agriculture. Many fruits, vegetables, and nuts rely heavily on animal pollination, and a reduction in pollinator services can lead to lower yields, reduced quality, and increased food costs. Scientists are actively researching solutions, from promoting pollinator-friendly farming practices and creating urban pollinator gardens to developing less harmful pest management strategies and conserving natural habitats. Understanding and protecting these unsung heroes of our ecosystems is paramount for food security and the health of our planet.

Which of the following is NOT listed as a threat to pollinator populations?

A.Habitat loss
B.Pesticide use
C.Increased rainfall
D.Climate change

Solution

RC — NOT a threat The passage lists habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, diseases and invasive species as threats. Increased rainfall is nowhere mentioned as a threat. Hence option (c).

93

Directions (Qs. 90-94): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. The symbiotic relationship between flowering plants and their pollinators is a cornerstone of global biodiversity and ecosystem stability. Pollinators, primarily insects like bees, butterflies, and moths, but also birds and bats, play a crucial role in the reproduction of over 80% of the world's flowering plants, including many food crops essential for human sustenance. As these animals visit flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, they inadvertently transfer pollen grains from one flower to another, enabling fertilization. This intricate dance has evolved over millions of years, leading to highly specialized adaptations in both plants and pollinators. For instance, some flowers have evolved specific shapes, colors, or scents to attract particular pollinators, while pollinators have developed specialized mouthparts or behaviors to access the rewards offered by these flowers. However, this vital relationship is under severe threat from various anthropogenic factors. Habitat loss due to urbanization and agriculture, pesticide use (especially neonicotinoids), climate change altering bloom times, and the spread of diseases and invasive species are collectively contributing to a dramatic decline in pollinator populations worldwide. The consequences of this decline are far-reaching. Beyond the ecological impact on wild plant reproduction, there are significant economic implications for agriculture. Many fruits, vegetables, and nuts rely heavily on animal pollination, and a reduction in pollinator services can lead to lower yields, reduced quality, and increased food costs. Scientists are actively researching solutions, from promoting pollinator-friendly farming practices and creating urban pollinator gardens to developing less harmful pest management strategies and conserving natural habitats. Understanding and protecting these unsung heroes of our ecosystems is paramount for food security and the health of our planet.

What are the economic implications of declining pollinator populations mentioned in the passage?

A.Increased timber production
B.Lower crop yields and higher food costs
C.Decreased demand for agricultural labor
D.Greater reliance on fossil fuels

Solution

RC — economic implications The passage notes that many fruits, vegetables and nuts rely on animal pollination. A fall in pollinator services can bring lower yields, reduced quality and increased food costs. Hence option (b).

94

Directions (Qs. 90-94): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. The symbiotic relationship between flowering plants and their pollinators is a cornerstone of global biodiversity and ecosystem stability. Pollinators, primarily insects like bees, butterflies, and moths, but also birds and bats, play a crucial role in the reproduction of over 80% of the world's flowering plants, including many food crops essential for human sustenance. As these animals visit flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, they inadvertently transfer pollen grains from one flower to another, enabling fertilization. This intricate dance has evolved over millions of years, leading to highly specialized adaptations in both plants and pollinators. For instance, some flowers have evolved specific shapes, colors, or scents to attract particular pollinators, while pollinators have developed specialized mouthparts or behaviors to access the rewards offered by these flowers. However, this vital relationship is under severe threat from various anthropogenic factors. Habitat loss due to urbanization and agriculture, pesticide use (especially neonicotinoids), climate change altering bloom times, and the spread of diseases and invasive species are collectively contributing to a dramatic decline in pollinator populations worldwide. The consequences of this decline are far-reaching. Beyond the ecological impact on wild plant reproduction, there are significant economic implications for agriculture. Many fruits, vegetables, and nuts rely heavily on animal pollination, and a reduction in pollinator services can lead to lower yields, reduced quality, and increased food costs. Scientists are actively researching solutions, from promoting pollinator-friendly farming practices and creating urban pollinator gardens to developing less harmful pest management strategies and conserving natural habitats. Understanding and protecting these unsung heroes of our ecosystems is paramount for food security and the health of our planet.

What is suggested as a solution to protect pollinators?

A.Encouraging deforestation
B.Developing more harmful pest management strategies
C.Promoting pollinator-friendly farming practices
D.Reducing global trade

Solution

RC — solution The passage mentions researched solutions to the decline. These include pollinator-friendly farming, urban pollinator gardens, less harmful pest management and habitat conservation. Hence option (c).

95

Choose the most suitable option to replace the highlighted part of the sentence: They proposed us to consider a different approach.

A.that we consider a different approach
B.us considering a different approach
C.to consider a different approach by us
D.that we considered a different approach

Solution

Propose + that-clause 'Propose' does not take 'object + to-infinitive'. It takes a that-clause with the subjunctive base verb: 'proposed that we consider'. Hence option (a).

96

Choose the most suitable option to replace the highlighted part of the sentence: I wonder what is the reason for her sudden departure.

A.what the reason is for her sudden departure
B.what the reason for her sudden departure is
C.what is the reason her sudden departure
D.the reason for her sudden departure is what

Solution

Embedded question order An embedded (indirect) question takes statement word order — subject before verb. 'I wonder what the reason is for her sudden departure.' Hence option (a).

97

A sentence is provided in direct speech. From the four given options, choose the one that most accurately conveys the sentence in its corresponding indirect speech. The teacher said, "The Earth revolves around the Sun."

A.The teacher said that the Earth revolved around the Sun.
B.The teacher said that the Earth had revolved around the Sun.
C.The teacher said that the Earth revolves around the Sun.
D.The teacher said that the Earth is revolving around the Sun.

Solution

Universal truth — tense retained Universal truths keep their present tense in reported speech. 'Revolves' therefore does not change to 'revolved'. 'The teacher said that the Earth revolves around the Sun.' — option (c).

98

A sentence is provided in indirect speech. From the four given options, choose the one that most accurately conveys the sentence in its corresponding direct speech. She asked him if he could help her with the project the next day.

A."Can you help me with the project tomorrow?" she asked him.
B."Could you help me with the project the next day?" she asked him.
C."Will you help me with the project tomorrow?" she asked him.
D."Help me with the project tomorrow," she asked him.

Solution

Indirect → direct — request 'If' signals a yes/no question; 'could' moves back to 'can' and 'the next day' becomes 'tomorrow'. The direct form is: "Can you help me with the project tomorrow?" Hence option (a).

99

Rearrange the following sentences in correct order to make a logical passage: 1. This new approach significantly boosted employee morale. 2. The company decided to implement a flexible work-from-home policy. 3. Initially, some managers expressed concerns about productivity. 4. However, careful monitoring showed no dip in output.

A.2-3-4-1
B.3-4-2-1
C.2-1-3-4
D.3-2-1-4

Solution

Para jumble — WFH policy Sentence 2 introduces the decision, so it opens; sentence 3 gives the initial concerns. Sentence 4 ('However … no dip') answers those concerns, and sentence 1 ('This new approach') concludes with the result. Order: 2-3-4-1 — option (a).

100

Rearrange the following sentences to form a coherent paragraph: 1. This allows the bird to remain almost perfectly still relative to the flower. 2. The hummingbird's wings beat at an incredibly high frequency, often over 50 times per second. 3. This unique ability enables them to efficiently extract nectar while hovering in mid-air. 4. Such rapid wing movements create a stable platform, counteracting any air currents.

A.2, 4, 1, 3
B.3, 2, 4, 1
C.2, 1, 4, 3
D.1, 2, 4, 3

Solution

Para jumble — hummingbird Sentence 2 introduces the wing-beat fact, so it opens; sentence 4 ('Such rapid wing movements') follows directly. Sentence 1 ('This allows the bird …') states the effect, and sentence 3 ('This unique ability') concludes. Order: 2, 4, 1, 3 — option (a).