SSC CGL 17 September 2025 · Shift 2 · English Comprehension — questions with answers

76

The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of them contains an error. Select the part that contains the error from the given options. The fishermen caught many fishes (1)/ from the lake yesterday (2)/ and sold them in the market (3)/ at a good price. (4)

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

Solution

Error — fish/fishes The plural of 'fish' is normally 'fish'. 'Fishes' is used only when different SPECIES are meant, which is not the case here. Correct: 'The fishermen caught many fish'. Hence option (a).

77

Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word. Dusky

A.Incandescent
B.Murky
C.Gloomy
D.Shadowy

Solution

Antonym — Dusky 'Dusky' means somewhat dark or dim in colour. 'Incandescent' means very bright and glowing — the opposite. Murky, gloomy and shadowy are all synonyms of dusky. Hence option (a).

78

Spot the correct spelling.

A.Cytotoxisiti
B.Cytotoxicity
C.Cytotoxycity
D.Citotoxcity

Solution

Correct spelling 'Cytotoxicity' — the quality of being toxic to cells — is the correct spelling. It comes from cyto (cell) + toxicity. The other three are misspelt: Cytotoxisiti, Cytotoxycity (y in place of i) and Citotoxcity. Hence option (b).

79

Select the correct option: After the latest findings, the theory came under rigorous ____ and reinterpretation.

A.scrutiny
B.sanction
C.insinuation
D.subversion

Solution

Vocabulary — scrutiny 'Scrutiny' means careful and detailed examination. A theory examined afresh after new findings comes under rigorous scrutiny. Sanction is approval, insinuation a sly hint and subversion an attempt to undermine. Hence option (a).

80

Choose the correct meaning of the idiom: He is not fit to hold a candle to his predecessor.

A.Excellent in comparison
B.Similar in ability
C.Greatly inferior to
D.Superior to in some aspects

Solution

Idiom — hold a candle to 'Not fit to hold a candle to someone' means far inferior to that person. The phrase comes from apprentices who once held candles for skilled workers. So he is greatly inferior to his predecessor. Hence option (c).

81

Select the option that expresses the given sentence in the Active/Passive voice. The technicians will be installing the new fibre-optic cables all morning.

A.The new fibre-optic cables will be installed by the technicians all morning.
B.The new fibre-optic cables will have been installed by the technicians all morning.
C.The new fibre-optic cables will be being installed by the technicians all morning.
D.The new fibre-optic cables would be installed by the technicians all morning.

Solution

Future continuous passive 'Will be installing' is FUTURE CONTINUOUS active. Its passive form is will be being + past participle. (a) drops ‘being’, (b) shifts to future perfect, (d) changes the modal. Hence option (c).

82

The following sentence has been divided into parts. One of them contains an error. Select the part that contains the error from the given options. Seldom we realize (1)/ how fortunate we are (2)/ to have access to clean water (3)/ and healthy food. (4)

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

Solution

Inversion after Seldom A negative adverb like 'Seldom' at the start forces INVERSION. The auxiliary must come before the subject: Seldom DO we realize. Part (1) keeps the normal order, so the error lies there. Hence option (a).

83

Select the sentence containing the homonym of the highlighted word: The ancient sconce held a flickering torch along the corridor.

A.The thief broke the wall sconce and escaped.
B.The student was sconced by the elders for breaking tradition.
C.The silver sconce was engraved with floral motifs.
D.The living room was decorated with a modern LED sconce.

Solution

Homonym — sconce In the given sentence 'sconce' means a wall-mounted holder for a light. Options (a), (c) and (d) all use it in that same sense. In (b) 'sconced' means to penalise or fine someone — a different meaning. Hence option (b).

84

Choose the correct one-word substitute for: 'He was exposed as one who pretends to have knowledge or skills.'

A.Savante
B.Charlatan
C.Adept
D.Connoisseur

Solution

One-word — Charlatan A 'charlatan' falsely claims knowledge or skill — an impostor. A savant is genuinely learned and an adept is truly skilled. A connoisseur has expert taste. Hence option (b).

85

Select the correct indirect/direct form of the given sentence. The manager said, "I finished the report yesterday."

A.The manager said that he finishes the report yesterday.
B.The manager said that he had finished the report the previous day.
C.The manager said that he has finished the report yesterday.
D.The manager said that he was finishing the report the previous day.

Solution

Direct → indirect Simple past in direct speech backshifts to the past perfect. 'Finished' → 'had finished'; 'yesterday' → 'the previous day'. (a) uses the present, (c) the present perfect, (d) changes the aspect. Hence option (b).

86

Select the correct phrasal verb: We need to ____ the old documents before moving the new ones.

A.clean out
B.clear out
C.wipe off
D.go on

Solution

Phrasal verb — clean out 'Clean out' means to empty a place completely by removing unwanted things. Old documents are being removed to make room for new ones. 'Wipe off' means to erase a surface; 'go on' means to continue. Hence option (a).

87

Select the option that expresses the given sentence in the Active/Passive voice. The ancient city was discovered by archaeologists last century.

A.Archaeologists discovered the ancient city last century.
B.Archaeologists had discovered the ancient city last century.
C.Archaeologists have discovered the ancient city last century.
D.Archaeologists are discovering the ancient city last century.

Solution

Passive → active (simple past) 'Was discovered' is simple past passive. The active form keeps the simple past: discovered. (b) is past perfect, (c) present perfect, (d) present continuous — none fits ‘last century’. Hence option (a).

88

Select the option that can be used as a one-word substitute for the given group of words: One who finds it difficult to believe anything without proof.

A.Credulous
B.Agnostic
C.Skeptic
D.Cynic

Solution

One-word — Skeptic A 'skeptic' doubts claims until proof is offered. 'Credulous' is the opposite — too ready to believe. An agnostic doubts the knowability of God; a cynic distrusts human motives. Hence option (c).

89

Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined/Bold segment in the given sentence. The new policy aims at reducing carbon emissions.

A.in reducing carbon emissions
B.for reducing carbon emissions
C.to reduce carbon emissions
D.with reducing carbon emissions

Solution

aim + infinitive The verb 'aim' is normally followed by the to-infinitive. So 'aims at reducing' becomes 'aims to reduce'. The other prepositions do not go with ‘aim’ in this sense. Hence option (c).

90

Select the most appropriate option to substitute the underlined/Bold segment in the given sentence. The instructions clarify that what the user must do to complete the registration.

A.that what must the user do
B.what the user must do
C.what must the user do
D.that the user must do what

Solution

Noun clause — remove that 'That' and 'what' both introduce a noun clause; using them together is wrong. Drop 'that' and keep the clause in normal word order. Correct: 'The instructions clarify what the user must do…' Hence option (b).

91

Select the correct indirect/direct form of the given sentence. The director commented that the script was compelling but the budget allocated for its production was inadequate.

A.The director said, "The script will be compelling, but the budget allocated for its production will be inadequate."
B.The director said, "The script was compelling, but the budget allocated for its production was inadequate."
C.The director said, "The script has been compelling, but the budget allocated for its production has been inadequate."
D.The director said, "The script is compelling, but the budget allocated for its production is inadequate."

Solution

Indirect → direct Reverse the backshift: reported past comes from the present tense. 'Was compelling' → 'is compelling'; 'was inadequate' → 'is inadequate'. (a) shifts to the future, (b) keeps the past, (c) uses the present perfect. Hence option (d).

92

Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order. Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a meaningful and coherent paragraph. 1. Furthermore, historical contexts often shape the development and interpretation of ethical frameworks. 2. Ethics, as a branch of philosophy, systematically explores moral principles that govern a person's behaviour. 3. It delves into questions of right and wrong, good and bad, in both individual actions and societal structures. 4. This exploration is not static, as evolving cultural norms and scientific discoveries continuously challenge established moral perspectives.

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

Solution

Para jumble — ethics Sentence 2 defines ethics — the natural opener. Sentence 3 ('It delves into…') expands on what ethics examines. Sentence 4 says the exploration is not static, and sentence 1 ('Furthermore…') adds the historical dimension. Order 2-3-4-1 — option (a).

93

Select the most appropriate synonym of the given word: RANDOM

A.Organized
B.Intentional
C.Haphazard
D.Methodical

Solution

Synonym — Random 'Random' means happening without a set pattern or plan. 'Haphazard' means done in an unplanned, careless way — the closest synonym. Organized, intentional and methodical are all opposites. Hence option (c).

94

Select the most appropriate antonym of the given word. Contempt

A.Disrespect
B.Hatred
C.Reverence
D.Disgust

Solution

Antonym — Contempt 'Contempt' is the feeling that someone is worthless or beneath consideration. 'Reverence' means deep respect — the opposite. Disrespect, hatred and disgust all carry the same negative sense as contempt. Hence option (c).

95

Sentences of a paragraph are given below in jumbled order. Arrange the sentences in the correct order to form a meaningful and coherent paragraph. 1. The fragrance that rises from the earth after rain is cherished by many across cultures. 2. This pleasant smell is known as petrichor, a term derived from Greek words meaning "stone" and "the blood of gods." 3. This scent comes from plant oils and a compound called geosmin released by soil bacteria. 4. It evokes a deep sense of nostalgia and freshness, reminding people of renewal and calm after a storm.

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

Solution

Para jumble — petrichor Sentence 1 introduces the fragrance after rain — the opener. Sentence 2 names it petrichor and explains the term's origin. Sentence 3 gives the scientific source, and sentence 4 closes with the feeling it evokes. Order 1-2-3-4 — option (b).

96

Directions (Qs. 96-100): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. For decades, India’s urban development has been synonymous with high-rise housing, metro lines, and glittering commercial spaces. However, beneath this glossy façade lies a less-discussed reality — the challenge of sustainable urbanisation. Rapid migration to cities has resulted in unplanned growth, overstretched infrastructure, and environmental degradation. The idea of a "smart city" is often celebrated as a futuristic solution, but without addressing basic issues such as waste management, water scarcity, and equitable housing, smartness remains superficial. Many urban local bodies still struggle with outdated administrative systems, limited financial autonomy, and dependence on central schemes. As a result, projects often prioritise visibility over viability. Furthermore, the unequal distribution of resources across cities widens the urban divide. While metros like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai attract investment and innovation, smaller towns remain deprived of quality healthcare, education, and transport networks. The migration of talent and labour from these towns perpetuates regional imbalance, creating overcrowded metropolises and depopulated hinterlands. Adding to the crisis is climate change, which magnifies vulnerabilities — floods in Chennai, heatwaves in Delhi, and air pollution in almost every major city highlight the unsustainable nature of urban growth. The true test of urban progress lies not in skyscrapers or digital dashboards, but in liveability. Cities must be designed around people, not vehicles; around inclusivity, not exclusivity. Affordable housing, efficient public transport, and green spaces are not luxuries but essentials. Until policymaking shifts from optics to outcomes, India’s urban transformation will remain incomplete — a tale of ambition that outpaces its foundation.

What is the central issue discussed in the passage?

A.Economic reforms in Indian cities
B.Unsustainable and unequal urban growth
C.Expansion of the smart city mission
D.Lack of employment in rural areas

Solution

RC — central issue The passage describes unplanned growth, overstretched infrastructure and environmental damage. It also stresses the widening urban divide between metros and smaller towns. So the core issue is unsustainable and unequal urban growth. Hence option (b).

97

Directions (Qs. 96-100): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. For decades, India’s urban development has been synonymous with high-rise housing, metro lines, and glittering commercial spaces. However, beneath this glossy façade lies a less-discussed reality — the challenge of sustainable urbanisation. Rapid migration to cities has resulted in unplanned growth, overstretched infrastructure, and environmental degradation. The idea of a "smart city" is often celebrated as a futuristic solution, but without addressing basic issues such as waste management, water scarcity, and equitable housing, smartness remains superficial. Many urban local bodies still struggle with outdated administrative systems, limited financial autonomy, and dependence on central schemes. As a result, projects often prioritise visibility over viability. Furthermore, the unequal distribution of resources across cities widens the urban divide. While metros like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai attract investment and innovation, smaller towns remain deprived of quality healthcare, education, and transport networks. The migration of talent and labour from these towns perpetuates regional imbalance, creating overcrowded metropolises and depopulated hinterlands. Adding to the crisis is climate change, which magnifies vulnerabilities — floods in Chennai, heatwaves in Delhi, and air pollution in almost every major city highlight the unsustainable nature of urban growth. The true test of urban progress lies not in skyscrapers or digital dashboards, but in liveability. Cities must be designed around people, not vehicles; around inclusivity, not exclusivity. Affordable housing, efficient public transport, and green spaces are not luxuries but essentials. Until policymaking shifts from optics to outcomes, India’s urban transformation will remain incomplete — a tale of ambition that outpaces its foundation.

According to the passage, what makes the idea of "smart cities" superficial?

A.Overuse of digital technologies
B.Poor investment in infrastructure
C.Ignoring core issues like waste and housing
D.Rapid migration of rural population

Solution

RC — smart cities The passage says smartness remains superficial without addressing basic issues. Those issues are named as waste management, water scarcity and equitable housing. So ignoring the core problems is what makes it superficial. Hence option (c).

98

Directions (Qs. 96-100): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. For decades, India’s urban development has been synonymous with high-rise housing, metro lines, and glittering commercial spaces. However, beneath this glossy façade lies a less-discussed reality — the challenge of sustainable urbanisation. Rapid migration to cities has resulted in unplanned growth, overstretched infrastructure, and environmental degradation. The idea of a "smart city" is often celebrated as a futuristic solution, but without addressing basic issues such as waste management, water scarcity, and equitable housing, smartness remains superficial. Many urban local bodies still struggle with outdated administrative systems, limited financial autonomy, and dependence on central schemes. As a result, projects often prioritise visibility over viability. Furthermore, the unequal distribution of resources across cities widens the urban divide. While metros like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai attract investment and innovation, smaller towns remain deprived of quality healthcare, education, and transport networks. The migration of talent and labour from these towns perpetuates regional imbalance, creating overcrowded metropolises and depopulated hinterlands. Adding to the crisis is climate change, which magnifies vulnerabilities — floods in Chennai, heatwaves in Delhi, and air pollution in almost every major city highlight the unsustainable nature of urban growth. The true test of urban progress lies not in skyscrapers or digital dashboards, but in liveability. Cities must be designed around people, not vehicles; around inclusivity, not exclusivity. Affordable housing, efficient public transport, and green spaces are not luxuries but essentials. Until policymaking shifts from optics to outcomes, India’s urban transformation will remain incomplete — a tale of ambition that outpaces its foundation.

What consequence arises from unequal resource distribution across cities?

A.Overcrowded big cities and declining small towns
B.Reduced pollution and cleaner environment
C.Balanced regional economic growth
D.Lower cost of living in metropolitan areas

Solution

RC — unequal resources Metros attract investment while smaller towns lack healthcare, education and transport. Talent and labour migrate away, perpetuating regional imbalance. The result is overcrowded metropolises and depopulated hinterlands. Hence option (a).

99

Directions (Qs. 96-100): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. For decades, India’s urban development has been synonymous with high-rise housing, metro lines, and glittering commercial spaces. However, beneath this glossy façade lies a less-discussed reality — the challenge of sustainable urbanisation. Rapid migration to cities has resulted in unplanned growth, overstretched infrastructure, and environmental degradation. The idea of a "smart city" is often celebrated as a futuristic solution, but without addressing basic issues such as waste management, water scarcity, and equitable housing, smartness remains superficial. Many urban local bodies still struggle with outdated administrative systems, limited financial autonomy, and dependence on central schemes. As a result, projects often prioritise visibility over viability. Furthermore, the unequal distribution of resources across cities widens the urban divide. While metros like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai attract investment and innovation, smaller towns remain deprived of quality healthcare, education, and transport networks. The migration of talent and labour from these towns perpetuates regional imbalance, creating overcrowded metropolises and depopulated hinterlands. Adding to the crisis is climate change, which magnifies vulnerabilities — floods in Chennai, heatwaves in Delhi, and air pollution in almost every major city highlight the unsustainable nature of urban growth. The true test of urban progress lies not in skyscrapers or digital dashboards, but in liveability. Cities must be designed around people, not vehicles; around inclusivity, not exclusivity. Affordable housing, efficient public transport, and green spaces are not luxuries but essentials. Until policymaking shifts from optics to outcomes, India’s urban transformation will remain incomplete — a tale of ambition that outpaces its foundation.

What, according to the author, should be the focus of urban design?

A.Speed and technology
B.Wealth generation
C.Human-centred inclusivity
D.Industrial expansion

Solution

RC — urban design The passage says cities must be designed around people, not vehicles. It adds: around inclusivity, not exclusivity. So the focus should be human-centred inclusivity. Hence option (c).

100

Directions (Qs. 96-100): Read the following passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. For decades, India’s urban development has been synonymous with high-rise housing, metro lines, and glittering commercial spaces. However, beneath this glossy façade lies a less-discussed reality — the challenge of sustainable urbanisation. Rapid migration to cities has resulted in unplanned growth, overstretched infrastructure, and environmental degradation. The idea of a "smart city" is often celebrated as a futuristic solution, but without addressing basic issues such as waste management, water scarcity, and equitable housing, smartness remains superficial. Many urban local bodies still struggle with outdated administrative systems, limited financial autonomy, and dependence on central schemes. As a result, projects often prioritise visibility over viability. Furthermore, the unequal distribution of resources across cities widens the urban divide. While metros like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai attract investment and innovation, smaller towns remain deprived of quality healthcare, education, and transport networks. The migration of talent and labour from these towns perpetuates regional imbalance, creating overcrowded metropolises and depopulated hinterlands. Adding to the crisis is climate change, which magnifies vulnerabilities — floods in Chennai, heatwaves in Delhi, and air pollution in almost every major city highlight the unsustainable nature of urban growth. The true test of urban progress lies not in skyscrapers or digital dashboards, but in liveability. Cities must be designed around people, not vehicles; around inclusivity, not exclusivity. Affordable housing, efficient public transport, and green spaces are not luxuries but essentials. Until policymaking shifts from optics to outcomes, India’s urban transformation will remain incomplete — a tale of ambition that outpaces its foundation.

According to the passage, what must replace the current approach to achieve meaningful urban transformation?

A.Prioritising technology over human welfare
B.Reducing public spending on infrastructure
C.Expanding metropolitan boundaries rapidly
D.Shifting focus from appearance to genuine outcomes

Solution

RC — real transformation The passage notes that projects often prioritise visibility over viability. It concludes that policymaking must shift from optics to outcomes. That is, appearance must give way to real results. Hence option (d).